Interestingly, in Tallahassee, were you to poll homelookers in the last few years on where they would most want to live, you would probably hear a long list of high-end neighborhoods on the far, far outskirts of town.
Not any more. As gas prices continue to increase, even the more affluent of us are getting hurt at the pump and starting to question our long commutes and arduous trips to the grocery stores. We are slowly, but surely, starting to see a revitalization and renewed interest in our more centrally-located nieghborhoods. Urban infill is becoming a part of our vocabulary. And, thanks to companies such as K2, New Urbanism is a term that many have now heard. (Check out K2's Evening Rose development!)
It's not just the cost of gas that is driving this change, but also the recognition that quality of life is, indeed, much higher in the downtown nieghborhoods where a short stroll to the park with the kids is within easy reach. Where restaurants can be walked to. Coffee shops abound. And if you have to drive, nothing is ever that far.
With projects, such as the Gaines Street Revitalization Project well underway, we are beginning to see Tallahassee's downtown and central neighborhoods get the attention, investment and activity that larger cities such as Atlanta, Seattle, Chicago and others have all had for quite some time.
If you are considering a new home (or an investment property) in Tallahassee, consider looking in a neighborhood that includes a lot of amenities. Consider looking for bike trails, parks, coffee shops, and other businesses and community services. The diversity of options for neighborhood styles, lot sizes, house design and age of construction may surprise even the most ardent suburban sprawl fan.
While interest is rapidly growing in these areas, prices have not yet caught up to reflect this growing value. Now is a great time to invest in downtown Tallahassee!
For a quick and dirty check of the local amenities in your neighborhood and to get a score on "how walkable" the neighborhood is, use this cool walkability assessment tool:
For help finding your perfect downtown home or investment property, call me today!
Alex Mordas, M.Sc.
EcoBroker® & REALTOR®
LEED for homes, Field Agent
Green Home Certifying Agent, FGBC
www.tallahassee-ecobroker.com
alexmordas@kw.com
(850) 559-4976
Referrals are an important part of my business. If you or someone you know is in need of real estate services, please give me a call. Thank you.
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