Highland Beach Blog - News About Homes & CondosRecently posted or modified blog postshttps://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/blog/Copyright HighlandBeachRealEstate.com2024-03-20T12:29:45-07:00tag:highlandbeachrealestate.com,2012-09-20:411367 Inspiring Quotes For Young, Aspiring Highland Beach Realtors<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/7-inspiring-quotes-for-young-realtors-highland.jpg" width="839" height="300" alt="7 inspiring quotes for young realtors" />
It's tough out here! Especially in a market full of legacy Realtors with ironclad relationships and decades of experience, it's not easy to get your feet wet as a new Realtor. These 7 quotes might not be the practical solution to your early-stage woes, but they are wellsprings of encouragement that we should all hold dear when the going gets tough. Keep these in mind when you're questioning yourself, your future, and are in need of a shot of wisdom to keep your chin up and head held high!
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/journey-lao-tzu.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="lao tzu quote - the journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step" />
"The Journey of A Thousand Miles Begins With A Single Step": - Lao Tzu
Ancient Chinese philosopher Lao Tzu is best known for his numerous quotes in Sun Tzu's The Art of War and for writing the Tao Te Ching, the foundational texts of Taoism. This quote is quite simple and reminds of the iconic depictions of ancient Eastern temples at the apex of a seemingly unending staircase into the misty heights of the Tibetan and Himalayan regions. Perhaps these temples were secluded and elevated for such a purpose - to show their adherents that wisdom and virtue are not always easy to attain. This quote is key when you feel your workload and expectations are overwhelming, whether it be a day or a year. Too many of us fear what will happen Thursday when Monday is here for the taking.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/henry-ford-quote-on-mindset.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="Henry Ford Quote - whether you think you can or think you can't, you're right" />
"Whether You Think You Can Or You Think You Can't, You're Right" - Henry Ford
Certainly a controversial figure, Ford's polarizing impact on modern society is felt in everything we do - from the 5 day work week to the advent and mass production of the automobile. It's true, that Ford has some less-than-savory beliefs, but this quote is nonetheless a simple and powerful testament to the power of the mind and the mastery of self. When the path to success is unclear, Ford's quote is truly valued. Whatever lies ahead, and whatever unknowns may appear on the horizon, the confidence in oneself is often the difference in overcoming the obstacle, rather than the challenge of the obstacle itself.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/eleanor-roosevelt-use-heart.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="eleanor roosevelt quote - to handle yourself, use your head. to handle others, use your heart"" />
"To Handle Yourself, Use Your Head. To Handle Others, Use Your Heart" - Eleanor Roosevelt
One of the most beloved first ladies in American history, Eleanor Roosevelt stood by the side of her husband, Franklin Delano Roosevelt during one of the most challenging and fearful times in human history. This quote reminds us that while rigidity and high expectations are something we should always consider imposing on ourselves, the way we work with others should differ from how we deal with ourselves. This quote has even played out in recent <a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/communities/">Highland Beach condo</a> sales, where we've seen things like personal letters and deep connections to common threads often override a superior monetary offer because both parties saw the need to help one another and found the common ground to do so.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/robert-louis-stevenson-how-to-judge-each-day.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="Robert Louis Stevenson quote - "don't judge each day by the harvest you reap, but the seeds you plant"" />
"Don't Judge Each Day By The Harvest You Reap, But By The Seeds You Plant" - Robert Louis Stephenson
Robert Louis Stevenson is best known as the author of Treasure Island and The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll & Mr. Hyde. Legendary novels aside, this quote is especially pertinent in a "feast or famine" business like real estate, where an entire salary can be made in a day but one can go without business for months at a time. Stevenson is indicating that the efforts of our day should not be judged by the rewards of our labor, but by the value of our labor itself. You may be hitting the phones all day, seemingly getting nowhere, but by putting in the hard hours and putting your best foot forward, that lead you contacted on this fruitless day could set a sales record for you a year from now. The reward is the byproduct of the good-natured hard work we put into the world. Hence, we should judge ourselves by the seeds we plant, and not the harvest we reap.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/bounce-back-patton.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="George S. Patton quote - "success is how high you bounce when you hit rock bottom"" />
"Success Is How High You Bounce When You Hit Bottom" - General George Patton
The brusque and hard-nosed legend of World War II's European Theater, General George S. Patton would know a thing or two about rock bottom, rubble, and the reduction of humanity to its most primordial. Most of our lives in one way or another include some redemption arc - whether it be a fight against addiction, grief, poor health, our own self-doubts, financial loss, or some other form of personal destruction. It's at this moment where the resolve of the individual is borne. The climb from rock bottom, to sea level, and to the apex of your life's achievements is the story most worth following, and like all climbs, it stars at the bottom.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/yesterday-take-up-today-rogers.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="Will Rogers quote - "don't let yesterday take up too much of today"" />
"Don't Let Yesterday Take Up Too Much of Today" - Will Rogers
Charismatic <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vaudeville" target="_blank">Vaudeville</a> actor and Cherokee hero Will Rogers offers this easy reminder that is especially true for our lead agents at Champagne & Parisi. Any career that requires the frequent cold contact of new names and personalities requires a short memory. Letting a bad interaction, a fallen deal, or another temporary trouble infect the days to follow is a sure way to poison the trajectory of your career. Start each day with the freshest slate you can - both physically and mentally.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/aristotle-excellence.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="aristotle quote - "we are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act, but a habit"" />
“We Are What We Repeatedly Do. Excellence, Then, Is Not An Act, But A Habit” - Aristotle
Greek Philosopher, polymath, and one of the original oceanographers, Aristotle postulates in his whimsical ways that excellence is not a captured essence. Greatness is not borne from lightning in a bottle, nor does it stem from single individual moments of brilliance. In truth, even if you have an individual moment to cite for so much of your success, it was the foundation of work, the routine you built, the people you impressed, and the clients you left fulfilled that are the latticework behind your success. That "moment" is the very tip of the iceberg for what was likely many difficult days below, where each of these 7 quotes rings truer than ever.
Learn more helpful tips for Highland Beach Real Estate agents...
<a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/blog/what-are-common-types-of-rental-agreements/">What Are Common Types of Rental Agreements?</a> | <a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/blog/5-modern-gadgets-to-help-the-busy-realtor-real-estate-technology/">5 Modern Gadgets To Help The Busy Realtor</a>2024-03-24T05:00:00-07:002024-03-04T10:17:34-07:00Anthony Carriuolotag:highlandbeachrealestate.com,2012-09-20:371115 Popular Bathroom Remodeling Trends For Highland Beach Condos<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/5-popular-bathroom-remodeling-trends-highland-beach.jpg" width="839" height="300" alt="5 popular remodeling trends" />
The warm hues of the Adriatic Coast and the Mizner-inspired Mediterranean architecture are finally giving way to modernity after nearly a century of dominance in Highland Beach and the surrounding area. While the love for the aesthetic remains, many new <a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/communities/">Highland Beach condos</a> are now embracing modernity - especially through shape and color. The large columns and bent iron, beiges, and deep yellows are now being replaced by clean, sharp lines, off-whites, and bright blues. For the restroom, you'd be surprised how much thought can go into it. Far from just a place to do your business and pretty yourself up, our bathrooms should be as comfortable and beautiful as any other room in the home. For today's <a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/blog/">Highland Beach Real Estate blog</a>, we're reviewing some of these newfangled bathroom remodeling trends. You'll notice some are retro-modern throwbacks to yesteryear, while others are entirely new and modern. Read on, learn more, and find some inspiration for your own!
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/eclectic-style.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="eclectic style" />
Eclectic & Vintage Style
One element of yesteryear that seems to be surging in popularity as Mediterranean inspiration wanes is the Art Deco curve and line work of the roaring '20s. The deft use of curves, lines, adjunction points, and color panes replace patterns and ornate handiwork as signature accents of luxury. Hellenistic columns and regionally inspired mosaic tiles have been overtaken by minimalistic modern combinations relying on sharpness. The Vintage-Modern style sounds contradictory, but in reality works to seamlessly pose layers of vintage textures - velvet fabric, wood grain, prominent houseplants, and other Art Deco-inspired accents. These noteworthy accents layered over simple lines make for a perfect two-toned approach with timeless character.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/footed-bathtub.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="footed bathtub" />
Traditional, Footed Bathtubs
One hallmark of Art Deco design are the <a href="https://www.housedigest.com/1000948/are-claw-foot-bathtubs-going-out-of-style/#:~:text=Claw%2Dfoot%20tubs%20are%20here%20for%20the%20long%20haul&text=Some%20are%20more%20modern%20and,them%20anywhere%20in%20your%20bathroom." target="_blank">classic footed bathtubs</a> seen in the chambers of the wealthiest businesspeople of days past. Many modern bathrooms include the dual vanities and elegant drawer sets to match, with separate showers. With modern materials come new options, some more sleek while others remain as they were when they were a staple of the upscale American household. They hold the advantage of being able to be moved and installed anywhere in the bathroom and take up less space than built-in bathtubs.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/nature-inspired-texture-and-color.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="nature inspired textures and colors" />
More Natural Textures & Colors
As homeowners seek more holistic approaches to home decor, beginning with more living infusions like houseplants, the natural world inspires color and texture more often. The speckled granite countertops are seen less than in recent years, replaced with gentler-colored quartz and greyscale granite counters. Dark green and black countertops are replaced with softer color palates borrowing from both mineral and wooden inspirations, with treated wood also serving as a common option on floors, vanities, and doorframes.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/modern-furnishing-and-hardware.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="modern furnishing and hardware" />
Simple, Modern Furnishing & Hardware
Ornate, busy hardware is seeing a decline in exchange for simpler yet elegant hardware. The complexity of a faucet, for instance, is relegated to the color, finish, and flow, rather than the shape and figure. Smart faucets and high-tech showers are frequently seen layered upon art deco-inspired old-fashioned finishes, as explained in the first paragraph of the blog. In modern Highland Beach bathrooms, complexity is not sacrificed but merely repurposed and found in different and less conspicuous places.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/copper-brass-accents.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="copper and brass accents" />
Copper & Brass Accents
The warm colors of the terrazzo and mosaic-inspired Mediterranean designs aren't entirely foregone from modern Highland Beach condos. They are found in hardware and in water fixtures throughout beautiful bathrooms, especially those that still borrow heavily from Italian design, like <a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/toscana/">Toscana</a>. Hammered brass and brushed gold are two of the eternally popular finishes found throughout coastal bathrooms. It seems that no matter the pantone of the year, there's a place for gold in the beautiful bathrooms found around Highland Beach Real Estate.
Looking for more design tips and decor ideas for your Highland Beach Condo? See below...
<a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/blog/smart-money-kitchen-updates-for-your-highland-beach-rental-condo/">Cost Effective Highland Beach Kitchen Updates</a> | <a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/blog/creative-ways-to-design-your-highland-beach-deck-space/">Creative Ways To Design Your Deck Space</a>2024-02-29T06:00:00-07:002023-12-30T15:42:32-07:00Anthony Carriuolotag:highlandbeachrealestate.com,2012-09-20:37095Why Real Estate Is Still The Best Long Term Investment<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/why-real-estate-is-the-best-investment-highland-beach.jpg" width="839" height="300" alt="why real estate is the best long term investment" />
With the shaky economy we're currently experiencing, many have likened these dark financial times to the great recession of 2008. However, there are stark differences that one should know before making such an association. Housing and subpar housing loans were at the epicenter of the collapse in 2008, but while they are affected by our economy, they are not the focal point of the downturn. Instead, housing prices have ebbed and flowed during the COVID-19 pandemic and in the few years that followed, mainly following market forces pushed towards South Florida thanks in part to the draconian policies that shuttered businesses in many of our most popular cities. Following the corrective actions of the Federal Reserve, housing prices in Highland Beach have now begun to plateau, and in some cases fall. If anything, the troubles of our current economy only endorses the foundational principles of real estate investment. Your Highland Beach condo may not be worth the astronomical (and honestly, unnatural) price tag it was in 2021, but that does not make it a bad investment. Here are some of the most important things to remember when considering <a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/">Highland Beach real estate</a> and why it's still, and always will be, a strong investment.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/everyone-needs-housing.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="everyone needs housing, not everyone needs a product" />
Everyone Needs Housing, Not Everyone Needs A Product
It's a common misnomer to label a Realtor as a "salesperson." Yes, your Champagne & Parisi agent does get paid when you buy or sell your home with them, but a home is so much more than a physical product. It is a nexus to your present and future, a place of safety, and serenity, and the keystone to your financial goals. Housing is at the core of humanity, and besides food and water, is the first thing humankind sought when they emerged from the caves and began to congregate as communities. With housing, you are providing an expensive investment, but something that every human being on earth needs. Regardless of the market, housing is a commodity that cannot be ignored, and when it is not available, becomes a major problem that halts life for whomever is... homeless. Our agents don't sell houses based on the premise of desperation, but to ask yourself what your life would be like without your home is all the fuel you need to understand its importance.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/florida-real-estate-holds-value.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="florida real estate holds value" />
Florida Real Estate Holds Value, and Rises
Even during the <a href="https://www.investopedia.com/articles/economics/09/subprime-market-2008.asp">2008 housing collapse</a>, Florida housing remained somewhat insulated compared to the massive calamity felt almost everywhere else nationwide. And despite the persistent harkening by politicians to an impending climate doom, insurance industry collapse, or the fear of another Surfside Incident, Florida real estate has remained insulated and even serves as a counternarrative to economic forces. Today's challenging economy and financial slowdown have not been a result of bad housing policy, but instead due to rate adjustments in the face of supply chain crises, runaway inflation, and a poor energy economy. Despite these challenges, all indications show that Florida real estate will continue to appreciate, further insulating itself from outside forces that have plateaued home prices nationwide.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/equity-in-home.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="leverage equity in home" />
You Can Leverage Your Equity
Home equity is one of the most powerful financial vehicles in America. Having a valuable home you have no plans on leaving that you can tap as a credit line opens up so many possibilities. Whether to address a financial calamity, remodel your home for future rentals, or pay down another debt with higher interest, home equity is a potent tool to wield at your disposal. Without home equity, we have personal loans, credit cards, and our liquid funds, but save for those of extraordinary means, there are no available credit lines that remotely resemble the value and potential of our home.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/tax-benefits.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="tax benefits for homeowners" />
Enjoy Numerous Tax Benefits
Owning a <a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/communities/">Highland Beach condo</a> or home is a six to seven-figure depreciating asset. Despite the negative connotations regarding "depreciation," what savvy investors will learn is that a depreciating asset is a weapon to use against the IRS. Whatever your stated belief on taxes is, we've never met anyone whose desire to pay taxes matches their opinion, unless that opinion is none. A home is a valuable investment that you already pay taxes on. Due to the wear and tear of your home, you now have an invaluable asset that you can counter on your tax filing, lining your pockets with money you've earned and deserve.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/sense-of-stability.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="sense of stability" />
A Sense Of Stability And Security
We all know the phrase "when a house becomes a home." This phrase denotes the moment that four walls and a roof become more than a material possession. Returning "home" to a place where we aren't beholden to a landlord, can decorate on our own, walk around dressed however we want, and enjoy our space, is a feeling we cannot replicate. We have nothing against the many beautiful rentals, renters, or alternative housing situations in the area, but owning your property (and the sense of stability that comes with it) is something that can't be listed, sold, or paid for with paper.
Want to know more about Highland Beach Real Estate?
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For Highland Beach homeowners, it's likely that they may be occupying a second home. Despite the city being in close proximity to both Delray Beach and Boca Raton, the lack of schools, grocery stores, and local businesses within the city's vicinity makes it a less-than-popular locale for young families and budget renters. When looking at the city's demographic data, housing inventory, and average income, it becomes more apparent that this tiny town is more of a beachfront retreat than a place to sit down and set up shop. With a median income well over six figures and a median age of just a few months under 70, it's clear that Highland Beach caters to the "second home" demographic. Though Florida has long been a place where northerners and successful foreigners choose to invest in real estate, this effect is magnified in a place like Highland Beach. For anyone looking to invest in a beautiful <a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/communities/">Highland Beach waterfront property</a>, here are a few tips for concerned out-of-state home buyers!
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/pre-approved.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="pre approved paperwork" />
Have All Preapproval Paperwork In Order
When looking to buy an out-of-state home, it's more important than ever to have all documentation, especially financially related in order. The less cause for delay or concern the better, especially when it comes to proving your financial solvency. There may be financial regulations, housing laws, and other rules that need to be sifted through before moving forward, along with affairs in your home state as well, especially if you're moving and not buying a second home.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/knowledgeable-realtor.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="knowlegable realtor with contacts in the area" />
Find A Realtor With Knowledge & Contacts In The Desired Area
Champagne & Parisi agents are determined, communicative, hardworking, and ethically centered. However, these remarkable intangibles are hardly worth much to an out-of-state buyer unless it is matched by in-depth knowledge and a robust local network. Their knowledge should extend in several areas, and depending on your needs, tailor that information to what you're looking for. While every Realtor should know the ins and outs of their service area, some may be more suited to work with waterfront condos, while others may be better for resettling families with schoolchildren. Your Highland Beach Realtor should know the latest on the building you're looking into, the area you're seeking, and the necessary contractors and laborers to make any changes once you've moved in.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/learn-local-laws.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="learn the state and local laws" />
Know The Ins and Outs Of State & Local Law
Along with having all the prepared paperwork, you should know what to expect from your new state and local laws. While we expect a majority (hopefully all) of our clients to never have run-ins with the law, there are some things that may not be legal in some places that are in others. A great example is <a href="https://www.idrivesafely.com/driving-resources/laws/distracted-driving/#:~:text=FLORIDA,zones%20when%20workers%20are%20present." target="_blank">cell phone use in cars</a>, where laws vary drastically from state to state. Moreover, financial, tax, and residential code enforcement laws also vary and are something you should know before filing paperwork and acquiring assets in another state.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/cost-of-living.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="cost of living" />
Learn About The Cost Of Living And Public Safety In The Area
Public safety in Highland Beach is a given. It's abundantly rare that someone with the means will choose to move to a place less safe and more crime-ridden than before. In some circumstances, moving to big cities like New York or Los Angeles for an outstanding opportunity may lead someone into a more "dangerous" community, but that's never the case when choosing a home in Highland Beach. The cost of living, however, may be impacted when relocating to Highland Beach. The cost of living in South Florida has shot up in recent years and was never a cheaper market. Remember that while you, your loved ones, and your things may be moving, your budget might not be.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/plan-a-visit.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="plan a visit" />
Plan A Visit
Chances are, if you can afford <a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/">Highland Beach Real Estate</a>, you can afford a domestic flight to South Florida. It is up to you and your bank account to decide if you're capable of buying sight unseen and are willing to assume that risk. In the meantime, it certainly won't hurt to visit your Realtor, see the sights, and learn more about the community the best way you can - in person.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/ensure-you-include-proper-contingencies.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="ensure proper contingencies are met" />
Ensure Your Bid Includes The Proper Contingencies
A contingency-riddled bid may dissuade sellers and their representatives from working with you, but when buying from another state, it is more excusable to include more contingencies. For your case, you may want to review what necessary contingencies can be placed to protect you and the seller from any hangups, delays, or unforeseen events that would cancel your transaction. The selection of which contingencies and the perceived scenarios that would trigger these are up to you and your Realtor to decide. These may be the lone stipulation that rescues a deal or prevents you from losing thousands in escrow.
Want to know about buying and selling Highland Beach Real Estate? See below...
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"Feng Shui" is defined by Oxford as A Chinese Thought System of laws considered to govern spatial arrangement and orientation in relation to the flow of energy, and whose favorable or unfavorable effects are taken into account when designing buildings. It may sound esoteric to the Western ear, but it's a part of everything we do when scheming and designing our homes. When it comes to our <a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/communities/">Highland Beach condos</a>, there is so much more than just space to contend with. When gazing at the vastness of the azure Atlantic from your Sabal Point balcony, suddenly the foreign concept of energy flow becomes a much more scientific concept. The way things are spaced, sized, and positioned not only makes for a more efficient use of space, but a more balanced light and airflow leading to a generally better feeling altogether. These tips will help you as you quest to make the most out of every corner, window, and open space in your Highland Beach condominium.<br />
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/avoid-placing-large-furniture-close-to-doorways.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="avoid placing large furniture close to doorways" />
Avoid Placing Large Furniture Too Close to Doorways
The main driving force behind Feng Shui is the flow of energy, or "chi." This is defined in traditional Chinese medicine as the vital life force which runs through all living beings. Essentially, when distilled into a more western parlance, this indicates a relationship between space, light, air, and yourself. There's a reason that even those who are more diminutive in stature will be less comfortable in smaller spaces, regardless of any present case of claustrophobia. There's also a reason why large, sprawling open spaces can intimidate us, asking too much of our eyes to see and of our mind to register. The right relationship between space, things, and airflow is essential. The first step is to avoid placing large furniture, especially dressers, wall units, and other bulky items too close to the doorway. Doorways should always remain unencumbered and allow air and light to flow freely.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/clear-hallways.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="clear well lit feng shui friendly hallway" />
Allow For Clear Walkways
Playing into the previous entry, clear walkways, namely unblocked hallways, entryways, and intermediate areas of the home, is the next step to allowing free-flowing chi to envelop your home in comfort. In extreme hoarding situations, like those shown in the television show, the hallways are often the most oppressive, as they are natural outflow points for rooms stacked from floor to roof, but don't have the storage nor spatial allowance for such activity. Hallways must be kept clear as much as possible to allow for the seamless transfer of both you and the unseen energy that guides us to enter and flow freely. Dingy, unclear hallways are almost always a canary in the coal mine, as they are rarely the cause, and often the symptom of unkempt and messy homes.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/natural-lighting.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="beautifully naturally lit beachfront condo room" />
Natural Light Is Key
Natural light is mentioned dozens of times across our blogs for a multitude of reasons. One of the most common is the impact it has on our circadian rhythm, especially as we rise to take on the day. While cooler, darker environments are perfect for deep, restful slumber, the opposite is true when waking. Since so much of our day is hinged on how successful we are in the first few hours, allowing natural light into your necessary spaces is a proven way to prepare your mind, body, and home for maximum productivity and a positive outlook.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/invest-in-quality-storage.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="a well organized condo pantry in a small corner" />
Invest In Quality Storage
Good quality storage should serve a few purposes and meet a specific set of baseline criteria. Firstly, is it effective? There are plenty of ways to sacrifice function for form. Storage is not one we believe in doing this for. There are dozens of finishes, shapes, sizes, colors, patterns, and use cases for quality storage, whether that be glass jars in pantry spaces, custom wooden bookshelves, or stackable canvas bins in the laundry room. Storage is more than just a place where you put things. It should encourage you to use it, should fit seamlessly in with your decor choices, and reduce the overall imposition of "things." Rather than replace them or become the new clutter item itself, your storage should be purposefully used to organize and put away whatever it is that you have crowding your space.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/balance-the-five-elements.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="balance the five elements" />
Strike A Balance Of "The Five Elements."
In Feng Shui, the Five Elements are wood, fire earth, metal, and water. Each of these materials signifies different spiritual purposes and invigorates different parts of the mind. For instance, fire, as it is in most cases, is associated with passion, energy, and joy. Earth, on the other hand, is associated with growth, nourishment, grounding, and strength. While it's not necessary to spend hundreds on a new aquatic fixture, or needlessly add metal statuettes to an already crowded mantelpiece, we suggest finding ways to include some form of all in your home. Simple additions include houseplants for wood and earth, candles for fire, and metal fixtures among other basic, inexpensive recommendations.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/brighten-your-entryway.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="bright, well lit foyer and living room" />
Brighten and Open Your Entryways
Natural light, clearance of the hallway, and preventing obstructions in doorways all play into this final similar, but not exact, entry into our 6 tips. Entryways aren't just places where chi can flow, they are also the first thing your eyes diagnose as they enter a room. While color contrast is always exciting, going too quickly from light to dark can dampen our perception of the space and change our overall feeling of the room. Ensure that light fixtures, paintings, door frame color, and light access is able to reach the entries and exits of your Highland Beach condo. This is especially important with condos, where hallways are often dramatically different from the foyer you receive guests in, and you have the benefit in many cases of sunlight from all sides.
For more Highland Beach Condo Decor & Organization see below...
<a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/blog/4-crucial-security-features-to-look-for-in-your-highland-beach-condo/">4 Crucial Highland Beach Security Features</a> | <a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/blog/creative-ways-to-design-your-highland-beach-deck-space/">Creative Ways To Design Your Deck Space</a>2024-01-24T06:00:00-07:002023-12-18T12:34:42-07:00Anthony Carriuolotag:highlandbeachrealestate.com,2012-09-20:37058What Are Common Types Of Rental Agreements?<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/common-types-of-rentals-highland-beach.jpg" width="839" height="300" alt="what are common types of rental agreements" />
Highland Beach, though one of the smallest towns served by <a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/about/">Champagne & Parisi Agents</a>, is one of the most lucrative markets in the state. Thanks to its single main road spanned by both our Atlantic beachfront and the Intracoastal waterway, every day is beach day as a Highland Beach homeowner. Highland Beach also experiences one of the most significant expansions and contractions of population during the fall and winter seasons. Many high-end renters are attracted to the tailor-made <a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/condos/">beachfront condos</a> that Highland Beach is renowned for, enjoying beach resort-style living in a private residence, enriching the fortunate few who rent these units. As a general rule, it's good to know how, and what you're renting, including the nature of the agreement you're signing. For those looking to learn something new and rent in Highland Beach, read today's blog for an overview of some of the most common types of rental agreements.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/annual-rental-agreement.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="annual long term agreement" />
Annual Or Long Term Agreement
The most common form of a rental agreement is a long-term agreement. Usually, these are annual contracts that renew a year after signage and are subject to changing rates and expectations. Annual agreements offer semipermanent stability for tenants, with a predictable (for a year at least) monthly payment, minimal liability to the property save for common decency, and a platform to plan your next move, if not renew and stay another year.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/month-to-month-rental.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="month to month rental" />
Month-to-Month
Month-to-month agreements can be made at Airbnb's or extended stay "hotels," but are also a potential for a more routine landlord-tenant relationship. Usually, if a prior verbal agreement is made, longtime tenants can change their contract to month-to-month in the event of an impending move or home purchase. If a landlord is gracious and appreciates a respectful tenant who has plans elsewhere, a month-to-month engagement is usually enacted in order to provide a clean break for both parties. There are many reasons for a month-to-month, but these are just a few. Normally these types of rental agreements are much more situational and nuanced than the average lease.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/seasonal-rental-agreement.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="seasonal rental agreements" />
Seasonal Rentals
Seasonal Rentals normally fall in the 3 to 6-month range and can be used similarly to a month-to-month as a holding pattern for future buyers. However, seasonal rentals are much more than a "wait and see" type of agreement and are often used widely in <a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/">Highland Beach Real Estate</a> to serve a large and growing complement of seasonal renters. These are usually 'snowbirds' who will arrive in October and leave by March. Many more will arrive after Christmas and leave by spring, fitting into the 3 and 6-month format perfectly.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/rent-to-own.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="rent to own agreement" />
Rent-To-Own Agreement
A rent-to-own agreement is exactly what it sounds like. It provides a chance for future home buyers to avoid the restraints of the traditional homebuying process in the event their circumstances do not qualify them for a mortgage. If a tenant is renting to own, they may not have the credit score, down payment amount, or suffer from another limiting factor. Renting is not just a way to improve credit, but is also a way to show the home seller directly that you are serious and capable when the term comes to a close.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/joint-lease.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="joint lease" />
Joint Lease
A joint lease is perfect for young couples or groups of 3 or more. In the same way, a "roommate" contract in a college dorm binds all the tenants to the same set of legal rights, responsibilities, and obligations, joint leases create a collective from multiple people. This is very useful for those just starting out, with no credit history, or in need of some form of redemption, such as <a href="https://www.tenantresourcecenter.org/renting_with_a_criminal_conviction_or_arrest_record#:~:text=Renting%20from%20Smaller%2C%20Private%20Landlords.&text=This%20makes%20it%20easier%20to,you%20want%20to%20live%20in." target="_blank">following a criminal conviction.</a> Following the signing of a joint lease, the financial responsibility is shared across all tenants. This not only forces tenants to abide by shared rules and regulations but also incentivizes them to remain within the bounds of their expectations.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/sublease-agreement.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="sublease agreement" />
Sublease
A sublease is a necessity for most landlords to release their existing tenants before the expiration of their agreement. Some landlords forbid subletting, but in many cases will accept a sublessee who is at or exceeds your qualifications. Subleases are normally required when an emergency arises and a tenant must break a lease. They allow the sublessee to assume the remainder of the existing contract, releasing the original tenant from responsibility while seamlessly transferring it to the third party, who is now bound to the original agreement.
Want to learn more about the nuts and bolts of Highland Beach Real Estate? See these helpful blogs below...
<a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/blog/creative-ways-to-pay-off-your-mortgage-faster/">Creative Ways to Pay Off Your Mortgage Faster</a> | <a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/blog/understanding-an-escalation-clause-in-real-estate/">What Is An Escalation Clause In Real Estate?</a>2023-12-31T06:00:00-07:002023-11-14T12:28:09-07:00Anthony Carriuolotag:highlandbeachrealestate.com,2012-09-20:37133Cost Effective Kitchen Updates For Your Highland Beach Rental Condo<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/cost-effective-kitchen-updates-highland-beach.jpg" width="839" height="300" alt="cost effective kitchen updates" />
There are many ways to elevate the lifestyle you lead in your <a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/blog/build-your-perfect-highland-beach-outdoor-kitchen-highland-beach-homeowner-advice/">Highland Beach condo kitchen</a> without breaking the bank or changing your entire space. With the limited space of many <a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/communities/">Highland Beach condos</a> and their high price tag, how we adorn and utilize our condos is an exercise in the marriage of form and function. Whether looking to rent your condo or live large on the beach, these ideas are cost-effective and together (or on their own) will elevate the quality of life you experience in your Highland Beach condo.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/replace-dated-knobs.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="replace dated knobs and handles" />
Replace Dated Knobs, Handles, And Hardware
Despite its diminutive presence against the backdrop of the entire kitchen, hardware can make a major difference in both appearance and practicality. Old, gaudy, bronzine-style hardware is out, largely being replaced by sleek, slim, and minimalistic drawers, knobs, handles, and shelves. A cheap, very easy solo project for just about any skill level, replacing hardware can lead to big results without leaving any dust behind.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/space-for-coffee.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="create space for coffee bar" />
Create Space For A Coffee Bar
A small space for a coffee bar is a classy move, especially when enjoying breakfast in the sunkissed nooks and patios that grace so many <a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/communities/">Highland Beach communities</a>. A coffee bar usually consists of a coffee maker (obviously), a set of small cups (saucers are a plus), a sugar caddy, and a tin for keeping loose ground coffee. A small artwork, statuette, or accent piece is a perfect way to complete this dedicated ensemble. To go all out, place it atop a rolling cart or small end table.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/splashy-wall-art.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="splashy wall art" />
Use Inexpensive But Splashy Artwork To Add Character
Much like a small oil painting or print will liven up your coffee bar, there are plenty of ways to obtain inexpensive but form-fitting artwork to elevate your Highland Beach kitchen. Art doesn't have to be a costly installation, especially when there are so many talented artists in our area exhibiting their work with pride. If not buying a handmade piece, look online for durable, low-cost prints of a variety of works, from pastel to acrylic, and even digital design. There will always be something to fit your aesthetic and your budget.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/brighten-light-fixtures.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="brighten light fixtures" />
Brighten Your Light Fixtures
Dim, yellowy light fixtures are following bronze and Venetian plaster into yesteryear. Save for the moody Edison lights that are so popular on our patios and across our swimming pools, most indoor light fixtures are finding something between these old-fashioned accent lights and bright LED's seen in bathrooms all over. Brightening your light fixtures is more than just your choice of bulb - it's the housing as well. Light will refract off whatever surface it touches, thus your encasements matter often as much as the bulb itself. Choose wisely!
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/modern-faucet.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="modern faucet" />
Add A Stylish Faucet
Faucets, like doorknobs and light bulbs, may not occupy the most space in your Highland Beach condo, but it matters in the way a throw rug does to the floor of a large room: it ties it all together. Faucets should function well above all, but there are dozens of well-functioning faucets that also lend to the style you're seeking for the kitchen as a whole. Between the smart, highly customizable modern faucets to the restaurant-style, springy detachable hoses, there's a faucet for every sink and a look for every condo.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/replace-backsplash.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="replace kitchen backsplash" />
Replace Your Backsplash
This one might need a little extra help, but a handy homeowner with a little know-how can get it done. A backsplash is a canvas with which your cabinets, countertops, and appliances are mounted. Much like the <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Batter%27s_eye" target="_blank">"batter's eye" helps hitters in MLB</a> ballparks retain focus behind the pitcher, the backsplash serves a similar purpose, and can either contribute to a busier or more refined appearance. Multicolor backsplashes, like the one shown above, are beautiful but can clash if the wrong choices are made around them, while plain "subway tile" backsplashes are easy to work with but far from the most decorative choice.
Learn more about sprucing up your Highland Beach condo with these enlightening blogs!
<a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/blog/creative-ways-to-design-your-highland-beach-deck-space/">Creative Ways to Design Your Highland Beach Deck Space</a> | <a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/blog/5-tasteful-highland-beach-waterfront-patio-accessories-beach-house-decor/">5 Tasteful Highland Beach Patio Accessories</a>2023-12-24T06:00:00-07:002023-11-14T11:21:02-07:00Anthony Carriuolotag:highlandbeachrealestate.com,2012-09-20:37084How Renters Insurance Helps Landlords and Tenants | Highland Beach Rental Properties<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/how-rental-insurance-benefits-everyone-highland-beach.jpg" width="839" height="300" alt="how rental insurance helps tenants and landlords" />
Rentals are a rarity in Highland Beach, where many move to enjoy the soothing sand and lapping waves as part of their ultimate destination. However, for those who are seasonal residents, or those looking to create an income property from their <a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/communities/">Highland Beach condo</a>, renters insurance is practically a must. In today's <a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/blog/">Highland Beach Real Estate blog</a>, we review some of the most compelling and simple reasons that renters insurance benefits both renter and landlord and why you should demand it as part of your income-producing property, especially in a place as upscale and costly as Highland Beach, Florida.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/protects-personal-property.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="protects personal property" />
Protects The Tenant's Personal Property
The first and most important consideration is the protection of personal property for your tenant. This not only creates peace of mind but also easily sorts through any property damage situation as it stands without confusion. Even a younger, less wealthy tenant will likely have thousands of dollars of personal property in your rental at any time. This could include but is not limited to:
Computers
Musical Equipment
Game Consoles
Kitchen Appliances
Furniture
Clothing
Jewelry
Speakers
Televisions
and much more... The first layer of defense against future disputes with your tenants is to ensure they protect themselves.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/hurricane-damage.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="covers expenses after disaster" />
Covers Temporary Expenses For Tenants In The Event Of Severe Damage
Renters insurance protects both the homeowner and the renter from the long-term concerns expected when dealing with fires, flooding, or stormwinds. Not only is their personal property protected, but so is the loss of use incurred by a property rendered inert by the elements. For an extremely low monthly premium, renters can insure their personal property, animals, and hotel bills in the event of a loss will be safe and secure from financial burden.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/cover-for-dog-bites.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="coverage for pet issues and dog bites" />
Coverage For Dog Bites & Pet Issues
This is quite possibly the quintessential purpose of renters insurance. For all those fortunate to enjoy one of several <a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/blog/pet-friendly-condos-in-highland-beach-fl/">Highland Beach pet friendly condos</a>, protecting your dog and your neighbors from your dog is an omnipotent concern. While almost every pet is friendly, well-trained, and hopefully leashed, animals can't speak directly to us and are not always perfectly predictable. If a renters dog bites a condo owner, you will be held personally liable as the unit owner without the barrier of renters insurance, which not only prevents you from the lawsuit, but also protects your tenant from what could become an enormous financial loss.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/affordable-renters-insurance.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="affordable rental insurance" />
It's Very Affordable
Even with today's astronomical inflation, renters insurance usually hovers around the $30 per month mark. It might be an inconvenience, but for the price of a modest lunch and a glass of wine, you can protect your renter, their pets, and their (your) neighbors from cataclysmic liability issues. Renters insurance is very cheap to ensure that more than just the home and neighborhood are protected. It's a way for you as the condo owner and for your renter to enjoy peace of mind for everything and everyone invested in your living space.
View more blogs about protecting and maintaining your Highland beach condo!
<a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/blog/secure-your-highland-beach-boat-for-hurricanes/">How to Prepare Your Boat For A Hurricane</a> | <a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/blog/5-things-to-consider-when-buying-a-second-home/">5 Considerations When Buying A Second Home</a>2023-11-30T06:00:00-07:002023-11-08T18:28:15-07:00Anthony Carriuolotag:highlandbeachrealestate.com,2012-09-20:370875 Profit Killing Mistakes Highland Beach Landlords Make With Their Rental Property<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/5-profit-killing-mistakes-landlords-make-highland-beach.jpg" width="839" height="300" alt="5 profit killing mistakes" />
As a boutique, upscale <a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/">Highland Beach Real Estate</a> brokerage with extensive experience with investor clientele, we've seen all manner of profit and loss from landlords we've sold homes to and advised in the past. To narrow our list of ill-advised landlord mistakes to five was difficult, as there are many examples of poor choices cutting into profits and depreciating the quality of the rental property. For current and future rental owners, we're here to get in front of what could be your biggest mistake yet. These five landlord mistakes shown below are the most common and expected from landlords just about anywhere, and a cautionary tale to anyone looking to cut corners and save now. It may cost you big later!
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/neglecting-appliance-maintenance.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="neglecting essential appliance maintenance" />
Neglecting Essential Maintenance On Major Appliances
The inevitable breakdown of the washer, dryer, or other major appliance is the bane of a landlord's existence. Save for major disasters like flooding, fire, or a full HVAC overhaul, the repair or replacement of significant appliances can wipe out profits for a month or more. The extension of life on these pieces of equipment is one of the most important roles local handymen play when servicing rental homes, but their upkeep is often ignored until a critical mass is reached and replacement is the only option. Look at the major appliances as you would your vehicle. Without routine oil changes that may be uncomfortable and costly, you're just postponing a much more significant problem down the line.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/waiting-too-long-to-list.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="waiting too long to list" />
Waiting Too Long To List & Rent Your Unit
Timing the market is such a vastly made mistake that we had to include it in our top 5. Often rental landlords will withhold their property from the market while waiting for the proper timing, using national prices and market forces as their basis for the decision. Yes, you may benefit from a slight change allowing an increase in your asking price, but if you waited three months, those months of rent will almost always far exceed whatever you hoped to accomplish by waiting.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/poor-paper-trail.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="poorly maintained paper trail" />
A Poorly Maintained Paper Trail
You've acquired the perfect rental property. You remodeled the kitchen with a beautiful backsplash and new stainless appliances, and it's on the market with a lot of hits. But... your poor record-keeping and shoddy accounting have held up the process and now your prospect and their agent may back out altogether. Even with the purest intentions and nothing to hide, the unpreparedness at such a crucial stage will give pause to even the most trusting of renters.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/avoiding-moving-inspections.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="avoiding moving inspections" />
Avoiding Move-In And Move-Out Inspections
Your <a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/communities/">Highland Beach condo</a> may be covered with insurance and furnished with the latest and greatest smart home tech, but the cost-cutting measure of avoiding, or conducting your home inspections may cost you big time in the long run. Your home may experience depreciation that can be easily remedied with a quick fix, or you may lose part of the security deposit you're entitled to after refurnishing the funds and noticing something later.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/poor-location-for-rent.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="poor location for rental" />
Choosing A Poor Location
For <a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/">Highland Beach</a> residents, this may be redundant. This tiny beachfront oasis has <a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/blog/5-reasons-to-move-to-highland-beach-highland-beach-condos-for-sale/">no traffic lights</a>, almost no crime, and a very healthy municipal sector. However, this blog is about general advice to rental owners based on our experiences, and not a commentary on the Highland Beach Market. When it comes to renting versus owning, crime in particular stands out. This is in part due to the sociological consequences of homeownership, and the added desire to protect what is truly, and not temporarily theirs. This is not to say that all rental-forward housing corridors are troublesome, but with rentals, the location almost matters even more than to homeowners. For instance, your renter may desire certain features in your condo but ultimately are choosing that community due to its proximity to something important to them - like their workplace, cultural venues, family members, or university.
Want to know more about living and investing in Highland Beach? View these blogs below...
<a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/blog/understanding-an-escalation-clause-in-real-estate/">Understanding An Escalation Clause</a> | <a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/blog/creative-ways-to-design-your-highland-beach-deck-space/">Creative Ways To Design Your Highland Beach Deck Space</a>2023-11-24T06:00:00-07:002023-11-08T18:25:26-07:00Anthony Carriuolotag:highlandbeachrealestate.com,2012-09-20:37118Creative Ways To Pay Off Your Mortgage Faster<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/creative-ways-to-pay-off-mortgage-highland-beach.jpg" width="839" height="300" alt="creative ways to pay off your mortgage" />
Committing to a mortgage is one of the most significant financial decisions anyone can make. When financing your <a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/communities/">Highland Beach Condo</a>, making the wrong move could lead you to ruin. On the contrary, and in a much more optimistic tone, consider the benefits of paying off your mortgage early. While the benefit to your credit may not be as significant, the loss of funds to interest far surpasses any lost benefit to your credit score. After all, a credit score is worthless if you can't afford what you're qualifying for. For the early birds, late workers, and fiscally present homeowners, here are some creative ways to pay off your mortgage.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/round-up-100-dollars.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="round up 100 dollars" />
Round Up To The Next $100, or $1,000
One way many millennials have automated little savings is with the "round-up rule." It states that any amount spent should be rounded up to the next dollar, with the difference going to savings. For instance, if a candy bar costs $1.17, the roundup rule would determine that the additional $0.83 to reach $2.00 would be automated to savings. The same logic can be used to attack your mortgage. If your payment is $2,687, add that extra $13 to reach $2,700. Though that won't make much of a dent, that number just feels right, and gives you the clarity to drop another $100 or more on top for some real gains!
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/reinvest-windfalls.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="financial-windfalls" />
Reinvest Any Windfalls Into Your Mortgage
For almost anyone not amid a Chapter 7 bankruptcy, a mortgage is likely to be your most significant financial liability. Why let that balance loom for any reason when you can reinvest positive momentum into your largest monthly payment? Windfalls, or sudden sweeps of financial good fortune, are often blown before the recipient knows what to do. Anyone who watched people convert their COVID stimulus into designer handbags knows that discipline in the way of sudden and unexpected victories often flies by the wayside. For an easy, responsible, and incredibly beneficial way to utilize your windfalls, put them back into your mortgage and save thousands, or more.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/add-a-few-dollars-per-month.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="add a few dollars per month" />
Add A Few Dollars Per Month To Your Payment
The 52-week rule is another fun method that's often seen in automated savings plans. It states that starting with week 1, you'll save $1. Following this logic, you'll save $2 on the 2nd week, $3 on the third, and so on. Little sums of money can be freed by making small purchasing decisions, or lack thereof, chipping in a little more from your leftovers after payday, or some other way of methodically scaling up your monthly payment without really noticing at all.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/rent-a-room.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="rent a room" />
Rent A Room
This isn't for everyone, and millennials are rightly sick of compromising what should be their most sacred and private space just to survive the egregious economy foisted on us, but there may be no more dependable way to chip down that mortgage than renting a room. The aforementioned methods may save you a few dollars through a few thousand, but there is no better way to slice your mortgage in half than to rent a room to a trusted colleague, friend, family member, or even significant other. If you can manage a few years with a good company, you can take much more than that off your bottom line.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/pay-small-debts.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="pay small debts" />
Pay Down Any Small Ancillary Debts
When you're looking to tackle the big fish, there's nothing worse than guppies tugging at your line. Small debts function similarly, and while they may not be the focus of your repayment plan, they should rotate in for as long as it takes to pay them down. Using something like the snowball method of debt repayment, popularized by the likes of <a href="https://www.ramseysolutions.com/" target="_blank">Dave Ramsey</a>, you can consolidate extant debts under a single umbrella and reinvest the funds you were using on these payments directly back into your mortgage. The result is a clearer picture and more money to reach your goals.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/budget-for-end-of-year.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="budget for the end of the year" />
Budget For An End Of Year Extra Payment
Budget for an extra end-of-year payment! Maybe not at the expense of that much-deserved vacation, but certainly in sight of many more in the future. This extra payment is a way of freeing months on the back end of your mortgage and can become a time-honored institution of your best fiscal habits. This is much easier said than done, especially when considering single homeowners compared to couples, but it's an attainable way to strike hard at the anchors of interest that may hold you back.
Looking for more real estate tips & advice? Click to see our <a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/blog/category/real-estate-tips/">Real Estate Tips Blog Section </a>2023-10-31T05:00:00-07:002023-09-21T11:38:08-07:00Anthony Carriuolotag:highlandbeachrealestate.com,2012-09-20:37120Understanding An Escalation Clause In Real Estate | Highland Beach Real Estate<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/what-is-an-escalation-clause-highland-beach.jpg" width="839" height="300" alt="what is an escalation clause in real estate" />
An escalation clause is a contractual stipulation that enhances or otherwise changes depending on counteroffers from differing parties. It defines certain conditions that, when met, allow the outstanding offer to be elevated to a certain stated amount. In real estate, escalation clauses are one of the best ways to ensure you get the slice of <a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/">Highland Beach Real Estate</a> you're pining for, strengthening your offer and showing your prospective seller you mean business. In today's blog, learn the ins and outs of a real estate escalation clause and whether you should consider adding one to your next offer.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/what-is-an-escalation-clause.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="what is an escalation clause?" />
What Is An Escalation Clause?
Partially defined above, an escalation clause in real estate often means you are willing to match any competing offer to a certain stated price. This ensures that you stay in the running for the home in absentia, with your offer doing the work for you. In theory, the concept of an escalation clause is simple, but in practice requires greater attention to detail and includes several key components. The most basic understanding of an escalation clause is "I will pay X for this property, but if another offer (Y) is higher than mine, I will increase to match that price.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/common-parts-of-escalation-clause.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="common parts of an escalation clause" />
Common Parts Of An Escalation Clause
A properly written escalation clause is composed of a few elements. First is the buyer's initial offer. Next, is the escalation cap. The cap is the highest possible value you're willing to offer. Between your initial bid and the highest number is where your escalation kicks in. For instance, if you offer $500,000 on a home with an escalation clause capping at $515,000, your agent could set your escalation to exceed the competing offer by $2,000. What this means, is that if another buyer offers $503,000, your offer immediately extends to $505,000 until it hits the cap. If another buyer exceeds your cap, your escalation clause is no longer viable and must be changed or ignored altogether.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/when-is-it-the-right-time-to-escalate.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="old fashioned alarm clock indicating the right time to use the escalation clause" />
When Is A Good Time To Include An Escalation Clause?
An escalation clause is an apt inclusion during a hot market when you have the financial flexibility to accept higher costs than you want to initially pay. If you've already maxed out budgetarily, an escalation clause is a financially harmful addition to your contract. Home sellers favor an escalation clause for several reasons. Firstly, it shows you're serious and can afford the home. Secondly, it shows the seller a higher potential number down the line, and lastly, it streamlines the paperwork in the event an offer within your escalation clause window is accepted. Rather than submitting an entirely new offer, an escalation clause is built-in for simplicity, among other reasons.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/when-is-it-a-bad-time-to-escalate.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="when is it a bad time to use the escalation clause?" />
When Is A Bad Time?
There are several indicators that you should watch for before including an escalation clause in your offer. First is your financial flexibility. If you're maximizing your existing budget, adding money you don't have is a terrible way to begin your life as a Highland Beach homeowner. In addition, as the market has slowed following the <a href="https://www.rocketmortgage.com/learn/historical-mortgage-rates-30-year-fixed#:~:text=Interest%20rates%20reached%20their%20highest,expensive%20time%20to%20borrow%20money." target="_blank">highest interest rates in decades</a>, you may not find yourself in a fierce bidding war like in the past few years. Offering an escalation clause in a climate where it is unnecessary will simply pit you against yourself, and provide the seller with an incentive to look for higher bids in other places.
For more Highland Beach Real Estate advice - see below...
<a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/blog/5-modern-gadgets-to-help-the-busy-realtor-real-estate-technology/">5 Modern Gadgets For the Busy Realtor</a> | T<a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/blog/the-best-highland-beach-condos-for-every-purpose-find-your-perfect-highland-beach-condo/">he Best Highland Beach Condos For Every Purpose</a>2023-10-24T05:00:00-07:002023-08-30T06:49:21-07:00Anthony Carriuolotag:highlandbeachrealestate.com,2012-09-20:37075Creative Ways To Design Your Highland Beach Deck Space<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/deck-design-highland-beach.jpg" width="839" height="300" alt="highland beach deck design ideas" />
For <a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/communities/">Highland Beach homeowners</a>, your outdoor space is the piece de la resistance. It is a place where you can enjoy the latest in Summer kitchen elegance, culinary innovation, and sunny days by your infinity pool. Despite the abundant ways to achieve an everlasting state of bliss on your Highland Beach patio deck, there are still limitations to the space and scope of your design. For our part, we examined, spoke to, and enjoyed several shining examples of Highland Beach patio design, and devised our list of creative ways to design your deck space. Read on and find what works for you!
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/modern-patio-railing.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="modern patio railing" />
Add A Modern Railing
They often are understated or ignored altogether, but railings can dramatically alter the appearance of the space that surrounds them. The noteworthy Mediterranean-inspired railings and accents of Highland Beach Condos like <a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/toscana/">Toscana </a>are as much a part of the visage of the community as the spaces kept between them. Adding, swapping, or designing around a new updated railing will bring a tiered effect to your outdoor deck and give your guests something to lean on while taking in the sunsets.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/pour-block-for-gas-grill.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="pour block for grill and gas" />
Pour Concrete Block For Your Gas and Grill
In some inland communities, concrete block under your grill would be a necessary step to mitigate the potential for house fires. Luckily for <a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/">Highland Beach residents</a>, a majority of homes and condos are wedged between the fire department and Atlantic Ocean. However, having a little stability and fireproof material under your grill never hurts, but for design purposes, it designates a space for one of your most important outdoor appliances, separating the workspace from the rest of the party so you can grill with complete lunch without the hassle.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/fire-table.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="fire table" />
Include A Fire Table
A fire table is the best of everything you'd want to sit around outside without any of the compromises. You don't need to fuel and recoil from a raging firepit or chiminea, both of which may provide excess heat for our subtropical clime. An outdoor table, on the other hand, is all function and no form. It's a great place to put your beverages and snack plates, but hardly a dynamic addition. A fire table is a utilitarian union between the fire pit and outdoor table, offering easily generated flames across beautiful stones, with a rim around the edge to place your drinks. This visually splendid accent is the perfect gathering point for nighttime outdoor hangouts.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/wood-slat-patio-fence.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="wood slat patio fence" />
Use Latticework or similar fencing For Added Privacy
Be sure to consult your local zoning authority before pounding in any fencepost. There's something both reassuring and beautifying about a fine privacy fence. Latticework or fencing such as that shown above is the perfect opportunity to ensure privacy while building a perimeter that matches the colors and decor of your Highland Beach patio. Fencing such as the slatted wood shown above is also the perfect backdrop for vines or fence-mounted planters, giving you much more design freedom from the outside in than you may have thought possible.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/build-a-pergola.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="build a pergola" />
Build A Pergola
The pergola shown above might not be the most useful shade-providing home structure, but it might be the most stylish! The slats of your pergola will determine the amount of shade provided, but even with the room between, the benefit to your home is worth the effort. Especially effective if placed near a window or closer to a doorway, pergolas are the perfect lounging space for that big reclining set of deck chairs you've been eyeing. For the handier type, they're quite easy to build in comparison to lifted decks and fully roofed cabanas.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/storage-furniture-on-patio.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="patio furniture with storage" />
Utilize Inbuilt Storage With Patio Furniture
Want to keep the clutter at bay while enjoying every piece of your outdoor patio? Check out furniture with inbuilt storage. This could be a bench with a lifted top or a convenient storage ottoman. For those with beautiful Highland Beach summer kitchens, ensure your grilling and serving space has ample storage to keep your accessories clean and safe from the elements. This will not only prevent wear and tear on small items, but ensure that the layout of your patio appears exactly as it should, minus the pool toys, bottles, and hand tools.
For all things about Highland Beach outdoor entertainment - see below...
<a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/blog/build-your-perfect-highland-beach-outdoor-kitchen-highland-beach-homeowner-advice/">Build A Perfect Highland Beach Summer Kitchen</a> | <a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/blog/5-tasteful-highland-beach-waterfront-patio-accessories-beach-house-decor/">5 Tasteful Highland Beach Patio Accessories</a>2023-09-30T05:00:00-07:002023-08-29T11:17:45-07:00Anthony Carriuolotag:highlandbeachrealestate.com,2012-09-20:387515 Things To Consider When Buying A Second Home<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/427/image/buying-a-second-home-boca-2023.jpg" width="839" height="300" alt="5 things to consider when buying a second home" />
Highland Beach is a quiet beachfront town renowned for its concentrated wealth and numerous part-time residents. Some Highland Beach residents come from afar, even buying second homes in the tens of millions. For others of more modest yet still resplendent means, buying a second home is an opportunity not without its challenges. The last thing anyone would want is for their vacation home to become their biggest liability. Without sound investment plans and a keen understanding of your cash flow situation, buying a second home in Highland Beach could become an anchor when it should be your playground. Here are 5 important things to consider before buying a second home in South Florida, especially Highland Beach!
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/427/image/plans-for-the-home.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="plans for the home" />
Your Plans For The Home
Before buying a home, let alone a second home, you should know what your primary purpose for the space will be. If you're looking for a watersports hub to enjoy the sun and blue skies during the hottest days of Summer, you may be a little disappointed buying too far from the nearest boat launch and maintenance depot. However, if you're seeking the finest amenities and have little regard for your Highland Beach condo in relation to the positioning of the sun, you might want a building that emphasizes amenities over direct waterfront access. Still, there are places like <a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/toscana/">Toscana </a>and T<a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/coronado/">he Coronado Ocean Club</a> that provide ample access to both, for a usual seven-figure price tag.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/427/image/hoa-fees.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="hoa fees" />
HOA Fees
HOA Fees can be exorbitant depending on which community you choose, and not everything will be as obvious as it seems. Some buildings might have higher maintenance costs, but not as many showy amenities. Some newcomers to Highland Beach make the mistake of equating amenities and finer things with higher HOA costs. In most cases this is true, but in some, you may find that buildings that are much less expensive still require more for upkeep. For those without the means, spending thousands on a seasonal condo just to cover building fees may give pause to purchasing.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/427/image/upkeep-costs.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="upkeep costs at second home" />
Upkeep and Maintenance costs
Owning a <a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/communities/">Highland Beach Condo</a> provides numerous lifestyle benefits. Among them is the ease of access, and low maintenance requirements. However, just because you're surrendering exterior maintenance to the paid professionals doesn't mean your condo interior won't be without its own concerns. Plumbing, appliances, light fixtures, patio furniture, general cleaning, and home care will be part of the picture when owning any home or condo. For second homeowners, consider what can happen within the home during the time you're away, the cleaning and preparations necessary after you arrive in town, and the quality of inbuilt appliances you may need to replace in the years to come.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/427/image/insurance-policy-costs.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="insurance policy costs" />
The High Cost Of Insurance
When buying a home or condo in Florida, insurance is always part of the conversation. The cost of insuring a Highland Beach condo right now is outrageous following the Surfside disaster and more recently, <a href="https://www.nhc.noaa.gov/data/tcr/AL092022_Ian.pdf" target="_blank">Hurricane Ian</a>. Beyond those unusual calamities, salt-induced wear and tear, wind damage, sun damage, and the general risk of a hurricane keep insurance costs high and rising in Highland Beach and throughout the state. Knowing that Highland Beach housing is almost exclusively waterfront property, you can expect high insurance costs to be the rule, not the exception.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/427/image/taxes-on-second-home.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="taxes on second home" />
Second Home Taxes
Unlike HOA and Insurance fees, taxes in Florida aren't as extreme as they are in other waterfront paradises like California. However, they're still taxes, and they still take money from your account. You can expect higher taxes on a luxury waterfront property like those offered across Highland Beach, but with the right Realtors and a sound plan, should be able to easily incorporate expected taxes into your home-buying budget.
Want to learn more about buying and selling a home in Boca Raton? See below...
<a href="https://www.bocaratonrealestate.com/blog/revealing-the-top-turnoffs-for-boca-home-buyers/">Revealing the Top Turnoffs for Home Buyers</a> | <a href="https://www.bocaratonrealestate.com/blog/what-do-millennial-home-buyers-look-for/">What Do Millennial Home Buyers Look For?</a>2023-09-24T05:00:00-07:002024-03-19T07:50:53-07:00Anthony Carriuolotag:highlandbeachrealestate.com,2012-09-20:36815Our 5 Favorite Order-In Restaurants Near Highland Beach<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/5-favorite-order-in-restaurants-highland-beach.jpg" width="839" height="300" alt="5 favorite order in restaurants" />
Highland Beach is a horse of a different color. Wedged on the beachfront between Delray Beach and Boca Raton, this beautiful waterfront town is home to just over 4,000 annual residents, with that number doubling during tourist season. Thanks to its unique position and status, Highland Beach has no traffic lights, schools, restaurants, and only two businesses with a Highland Beach address. Despite its relative "isolation" from the bustle and nightlife of nearby towns, in reality, the edges of the city are only a mile apart, and on either side, the town is flanked by two of the most exciting downtown districts in South Florida.
For avid foodies and cocktail connoisseurs, Atlantic Avenue to the north, and Mizner Park to the south, are each replete with dozens of incredible food selections - from the finest upscale dining to cheesesteaks and truffle fries. For those Highland Beach residents content with watching the moon rise from their beautifully decorated patio, here are 5 of our favorite spots to order in from to the north and south.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/hawkers-asian-kitchen.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="hawkers asian street food" />
Hawkers Asian Street Food - North
When we think of delivery food, we think about what's affordable, abundant, and preserves well. Hawkers Asian Street Food, and pan-Asian food in general, is atop this list. Bursting with complex flavor, spices, and unique textures, we love a solid app-entree combo from Hawkers at our doorstep in the evening. The summer rolls, Hawkers Delight, and Yaki Udon are among our favorites for eating in and dining out. With plenty of great vegan and vegetarian options, Hawkers is an easy solution for a diverse group.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/lemongrass-asian-bistro.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="lemograss asian kitchen" />
Lemongrass Asian Kitchen - South & North
Lemongrass Asian Kitchen is to more traditional Japanese and Thai fare what Hawkers is to inventive new spins of Asian classics. With an expected Sushi/Thai menu headlined by dishes like Pad Thai, Tom Kha, and a range of outstanding nigiri and hand rolls, Lemongrass Asian Kitchen is both a lunch favorite when working from our <a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/contact/">main beachfront office</a>.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/aruns-indian-kitchenA.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="aruns indian kitchen channa masala" />
<a href="https://www.arunsindiankitchen.com/" target="_blank">Arun's Indian Kitchen - South</a>
Arun's Indian Kitchen is a very short trip from our beachfront office, resting adjacent to Highland Beach in the Fifth Avenue Shops of Boca Raton. This fast-casual Indian restaurant features a wide menu of Indian classics with a range of heat that would test the mettle of any spice lover. From their very affordable channa masala to their new and sizable vegan menu, Arun's is not just one of the best takeout or order-in restaurants in Boca Raton, but one of the best Indian restaurants in general.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/pizza-rustica.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="pizza rustica" />
Pizza Rustica - North
Pizza Rustica is one of the only restaurants on Atlantic Ave open past 2 AM. In sports, there is a popular adage: "The best ability is availability." To an extent, this is true of Pizza Rustica after midnight on Delray Beach. However, they are far from an option only for those sleepless and desperate. Their generous, delectable rectangular slices are a late-night favorite for anyone lucky enough to live near one of their locations. Pizza Rustica nails the basics - with pepperoni their most popular, but also ensures veggie lovers and those looking for something a bit more exotic are sated as well.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/calaveras-cantina.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="calaveras cantina" />
Calaveras Cantina - South
Last but not least, and recently highlighted in a few of our Boca Raton blogs, Calaveras Cantina is one of several outstanding Mexican establishments in Mizner Park. Calaveras is one of the premier and dare we say, upscale yet humble Mexican restaurants in the area. Their Taco Tuesday menu features discounted a la carte tacos all day, the perfect time to order to your heart's content without overspending. In addition, one of the more intelligent offerings is their Takeout Special, which is tailor-made to feed 4 to 5 and keep things simple. Their takeout special includes 12 mix-and-match tacos, 2 sides of rice and beans, 2 sides of salsa and guacamole, and chips.
For more about eating, drinking, and general merriment in Highland Beach - see below...
<a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/blog/5-reasons-to-move-to-highland-beach-highland-beach-condos-for-sale/">5 Reasons to Move To Highland Beach</a> | <a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/blog/build-your-perfect-highland-beach-outdoor-kitchen-highland-beach-homeowner-advice/">Build Your Perfect Highland Beach Kitchen</a>2023-08-31T05:00:00-07:002023-07-28T09:49:24-07:00Anthony Carriuolotag:highlandbeachrealestate.com,2012-09-20:369225 Modern Gadgets To Help The Busy Realtor | Real Estate Technology<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/5-modern-gadgets-to-help-the-busy-realtor-highland-beach.jpg" width="839" height="300" alt="5 modern gadgets to help the busy realtor" /><br />
Real Estate is changing. Technology has influenced everything we do. From how we call our leads, to how we show homes, and how buyers search for them, everything is new in this now centuries-old profession. Despite the fact that Real Estate still includes a significant emphasis on direct marketing, physical ads, and referral discourse, technology is affecting every aspect of the industry. For the on-the-go, quick-thinking Realtor, these 5 simple and sometimes inexpensive gadgets will amplify your productivity and mobilize you in ways you can't on your own. Read today's <a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/blog/">Highland Beach Real Estate blog</a> and get your list ready!
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/a-quality-tablet-computer.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="quality tablet computer" />
A Quality Tablet Computer
A tablet computer is not a necessity but can add a level of technological dynamism to your career. Tablets are handheld, easy to move, affordable compared to laptops, and often include display options that are excellent for modern presentations. Tablets allow for sleek, quick movement from app to app, render beautiful high-quality images, and can record leads at an open house. Tablets allow for the mobility of a cellular phone and the functionality of a computer, at least to the extent you're seeking. While it shouldn't replace your laptop, it's a tactful solution to those days on the go, where you want big beautiful images and computer-like functionality to meet somewhere in the middle.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/external-hard-drive.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="external hard drive" />
External Hard Drive
An external hard drive is an important, compact storage tool that can keep photo sets, paperwork, and other important information at your side with or without your laptop. You won't want to go everywhere all the time with your computer, or even a tablet. A portable hard drive can place terabytes of available space in the palm of your hand, and fit cleanly in any purse, handbag, or clutch - allowing for the quick storage or deployment of important files almost anywhere.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/power-bank.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="power bank" />
Portable Power Bank
A portable power bank is an emergency source of connectivity in the event you're far from a plug. We're not insinuating you'll be working in the backwoods, and suggest brainstorming scenarios that are more plausible to the need of this device. Perhaps you're in an airport or a coffee shop and the available wall outlets are taken. Maybe you're simply seeking something quick and tidy to charge your devices, rather than tethering yourself to a wall. Perhaps you're driving and need to juice up your tablet en route to your next destination. And yes, in the event of an emergency, whether personal or professional, it's always prudent to have deployable, handheld power at your fingertips.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/phone-gimbal.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="phone gimbal" />
A Quality Camera Gimbal
Video continues to influence the future of real estate. Helpful video guides on <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@champagneparisi" target="_blank">Youtube</a>, quick Instagram Reels, and walking video tours are only part of the various archetypical videos Realtors have added to their content repertoire. A gimbal by definition is a device used to hold another in place, such as a chronometer on a ship or aircraft. In this case, a gimbal is the stabilizing force behind your very best iPhone videos. Nobody is suggesting you spend thousands, or even hundreds on your videos, but if you want to create easy-to-view content that represents the class you bring to the office every day, a smart starting point is an inexpensive but sturdy iPhone or general camera gimbal.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/ultra-thin-monitor.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="ultra thin computer monitor" />
Ultra-Thin Display Monitor
An ultra-thin display monitor doesn't go with you, but it is a staple of any office - whether at home or not. Thinness aside, simply having a larger second monitor will allow clients to view listings in a more flattering light, and allow you to work more adeptly. For instance, just the small act of switching between browser screens and applications is a convoluted and time-consuming process that builds up over the days. A second monitor would allow for an easy separation of windows, and allow simple activities such as transferring data from one screen to a spreadsheet faster, less confusing, and ultimately it winds up more accurate and concise as a result. Free your mind, and your screens with a second monitor to show off your listings and manage your digital time better.
For more professional advice to and from our Realtors - see below...
<a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/blog/real-estate-content-ideas-to-get-more-clients/">Real Estate Content Ideas To Get More Clients </a>2023-08-24T05:00:00-07:002023-07-27T11:44:21-07:00Anthony Carriuolotag:highlandbeachrealestate.com,2012-09-20:36921How To Care For Your Boat After A Hurricane | Highland Beach Boat Safety<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/how-to-care-for-boat-after-hurricane-highland-beach.jpg" width="839" height="300" alt="how to care for your boat after a hurricane" />
The big one has passed, and the sun pierces the misty veil of the morning after. Your home, family, and friends are ok - what matters most. But what of your boat? Your beautiful, shimmering vessel of South Floridian bliss - the aquatic party platform you envisioned spending your Sunday adrift upon when you moved to Highland Beach. In today's guide, we close the door on our two-part hurricane preparedness series for your Highland Beach boat. If you've done everything you can to prepare, all you can do is wait. Stay safe during hurricane season, and read these tips below on how to care for your boat after a hurricane.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/permission-to-enter-marina.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="permission to enter the marina" />
Ensure You Are Safe & Permitted To Reenter The Marina
Marinas are secure locations to start with, but may also contain hazards that could delay or prevent its opening altogether for some time after the hurricane. Marinas, when damaged can be susceptible to everything from jagged metal edges to leaking gas and live wires. When the storm passes, your boat shouldn't be the first thing on your mind anyway. With a little patience and some effort on behalf of the marina team, you'll access your boat as soon as possible and begin assessing the damage, if there is any at all.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/silt-layers.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="layers of silt on a boat deck after a hurricane" />
Remove Any Sand, Silt, Or Pooled Water
Your boat is likely to be caked in silt, sediment, sand, small rocks, and saltwater following the thrashing of a hurricane. Hurricanes move entire beachfront, reform land, and carry materials to distances and heights that seem unimaginable. After checking for any fuel leaks, broken pipes or live wires, be sure to begin the recovery process by flushing your boat surfaces free of the aforementioned natural byproducts. These sediments can damage surfaces, erode important coatings, fray lines, and destroy canvas and cloth materials to just to begin.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/check-bilge-pumps.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="check bilge pumps" />
Check Bilge And Pumps For Debris
After covering the surface of your craft, the next thing to do is cleanse the inner workings of your boat - namely the bilge pumps. Many nearby marinas are in brackish or estuarine environments not far from mangroves and saltwater hammock ecosystems. These leafy, lush environments contribute to the sticks, leaves, and mud that is likely to be built up in your filtration systems. Flush these pumps and clear any debris to begin refreshing your boat from the inside out.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/frayed-rope-on-boat.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="rope tied to boat railing" />
Inspect For Chafed Or Frayed Lines
Protecting your cloth, canvas, and textile materials aboard your boat is an important component of preparing your boat for a hurricane. However, not everything goes as planned, and in the event you have chafed, frayed, or damaged lines, you should consider replacing them as soon as possible. Boating is an easygoing, luxurious lifestyle that shouldn't be stressful or dangerous, but when things go wrong, they go very wrong. Prevent very otherwise... preventable mistakes by ensuring your ropes and lines are taut and secure.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/boat-electrical.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="boat electrical outlet" />
Beware Of Hot Electrical Currents And Leaking Gas
Before flushing anything with water or even climbing aboard for more than to check, gas leaks and live wires need to be accounted for. In the event a leak or live wire is suspected, the proper authorities should be contacted before assessing any further damage. Be sure to know the location of the circuit breaker and the protocol to properly <a href="https://www.boatsafetyscheme.org/stay-safe-advice/electrical-safety/the-electrical-system/#:~:text=Turn%20off%20power%20immediately%20to,shock%2C%20which%20could%20be%20fatal.">switch off electricity from the source</a>. If the proper measures were taken, the gas should have been drained and gas lines shut off before the storm. In the event of a leak, notify marina authorities and contact the U.S. Coast Guard for further assistance.
To learn what to do before a hurricane, click <a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/blog/secure-your-highland-beach-boat-for-hurricanes/">HERE</a>.2023-07-31T05:00:00-07:002023-07-22T15:14:20-07:00Anthony Carriuolotag:highlandbeachrealestate.com,2012-09-20:37002Highland Beach Real Estate Market Report (Summer 2023)<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/highland-beach-summer-market-report-2023.jpg" width="839" height="300" alt="highland beach summer market report" />
Highland Beach has seen exploding home prices in recent years. Stemming primarily from the COVID pandemic and subsequent urban crime wave across several cities normally associated with relocations to Florida, these effects were only exacerbated following these events. With very few single-family housing, townhomes, and undeveloped land, the Highland Beach Real Estate market is built much more on the value of its existing assets than its potential to develop further. Read on and learn much more about the state of the market in Highland Beach and how this unique community has been impacted by the winds of change.
All data is sourced from FlexMLS and compares the current 6-month period with the previous year.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/new-construction-condo-workers.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="construction workers putting together upright beams" />
New Construction Condos in Highland Beach
Highland Beach is just 1.1 miles of waterfront real estate along the Atlantic Ocean. Save for a new construction mansion in<a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/bel-lido-isle/"> Bel Lido Isle </a>currently listed at $12,500,000, there are no new significant projects underway in the limited space Highland Beach provides. Instead, the unique nature of Highland Beach allows for condo owners to continuously remodel, reinvest, and reinvigorate their spaces. In conjunction with the governing associations, these <a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/condos/">Highland Beach condos</a> see continual improvement and a pride of ownership rarely seen in even the finest neighboring communities.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/price-value-chart.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="price value line graph" />
Highland Beach Home Prices
Highland Beach is unique in that it has no businesses, restaurants, schools, or municipal structures beyond city hall. This means that fewer decisions are factored in when purchasing Highland Beach properties, and a more refined clientele can be expected. This is not to say that Highland Beach can't be a great place to raise a family. Without the expected trappings of suburban living, retirees and childless residents are more common, seeking ease of living and resort-style amenities instead of connection to community infrastructure. Despite the unique nature of the community and the homeowners who search here, the prevailing trends still hold firm.
The average listing price of a Highland Beach property is down -2.98%, from last year's $3,112,741 to $2,869,836. In addition, the average days on the market have nearly doubled from 54 days to 95 days. The disparity in the average sale price is even more significant, down nearly 35% from $1,532,800 to $1,081,833. The chasm between listing and sale price averages may be a result of several high-end properties sitting on the market for more than a few months. Not shown on our statistic sheet are the multitude of high-end rentals, some nearing $20,000 per month that have become a popular option for newcomers to Highland Beach. These high-end rentals are perfect for seasonal vacationers, but also upscale homebuyers looking to plant their feet and scout the real estate market for their purchase.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/highland-beach-realtor-handing-keys-to-couple.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="highland-beach-realtor-handing-keys-to-couple" />
Reporting from the Ground: What Our Agents See
Our Realtors have seen increased interest in these aforementioned rentals, with a particular nod to a $14,000/month property at the <a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/townhouses-of-highland-beach/">Townhouses of Highland Beach.</a> Oftentimes, the clientele seeking luxury condos from Boca Raton to Delray Beach may not be honed in on Highland Beach, but available to the options that lie within the city limits. Considering it is adjacent to these larger cities and it offers a similar lifestyle, Highland Beach condos are not always the bullseye of a home search, but a clear part of the broader dragnet that includes nearby waterfront real estate.
Click for more <a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/blog/">Highland Beach Real Estate News & Tips</a>
2023-06-30T05:00:00-07:002023-06-13T06:19:50-07:00Anthony Carriuolotag:highlandbeachrealestate.com,2012-09-20:370744 Crucial Security Features To Look For In Your Highland Beach Condo<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/key-security-features-highland-beach.jpg" width="839" height="300" alt="key highland beach condo security features" />
Highland Beach Real Estate is almost exclusively comprised of luxury high-rise condos and townhomes, many of which represent the apex of quality in waterfront condo living. However, before a state of relaxation can be achieved, one must be guaranteed of their stability, safety, and security. At minimum, these 4 key security features should be present in your Highland Beach condo. Despite the intrapersonal danger at a near-nonexistent minimum, a basic measure of security should be expected for your dollar. Read on and set your expectations high for the many wonderful condos in Highland Beach - starting with safety.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/manned-security.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="manned security guard" />
Manned Security
The most active and useful layer of security is an actual human being. The most luxurious and security-conscious Highland Beach condos often feature 24/7 manned security stations, usually with a gate/desk agent and roving security alongside them. Not only is an actual person the most useful form of security, having a relatable, regular face to associate with safety is a wonderful way to achieve peace of mind where it matters most.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/locked-sectors.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="locked sectors" />
Locked Building Sectors
The most secure condo buildings will have more than one lock between you and your front door. Whether that be a doorman regulating guest entry, locked internal sections of the building, or a keyfob elevator, having another door, person, or elevator between you and your condo entryway is another way to put security between you and what dangers may arise. This double-entry functions like an airlock, creating liminal space between your parked car and front door.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/common-area-surveillance.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="common area surveillance" />
Common Area Surveillance
Discreet cameras throughout common areas where guests and neighbors traverse is a reasonable step into both the prevention and investigation of potential security incidents near your Highland Beach condo. Oftentimes the best deterrent to trouble is the knowledge that the trouble is being watched. In this case, tactfully yet prominently placed cameras are a silent acknowledgment of the commitment to security at your <a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/condos/">Highland Beach condo</a>.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/smarthome-integration-security.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="smarthome security integration" />
Smarthome Integration
Last but not least, is the ability to integrate modern technology into your home security system. This includes remote viewing, alarm control, remote climate, and lighting control, 2-way voice, d<a href="https://ring.com/doorbell-cameras" target="_blank">oorbell camera</a>, and much more. The more modern the technology, the more customizable and integrated a system will be. Smarthome tech provides visibility into the workings of the home and peace of mind from anywhere on the planet via a connected device. It is especially popular among part-time residents who benefit immensely from remote access and security.
Learn More About Condo Living In Highland Beach - See Below...
<a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/blog/5-subtle-ways-you-can-reduce-pollution-at-your-highland-beach-home/">5 Ways To Reduce Pollution At Home</a> | <a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/blog/highland-beach-home-maintenance-a-quick-guide-to-keeping-your-home-clean/">Highland Beach Home Maintenance</a>2023-06-24T05:00:00-07:002023-07-22T15:14:26-07:00Anthony Carriuolotag:highlandbeachrealestate.com,2012-09-20:36382How To Secure And Protect Your Boat During A Hurricane | Highland Beach Boat Safety<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/how-to-prepare-your-boat-for-hurricane.jpg" width="839" height="300" alt="how to prepare your highland beach boat for a hurricane" />
Hurricanes are an inevitable part of life in South Florida. While the monstrous storms that defined the early 2000s are farther and fewer between, it's necessary to remain vigilant at all times. At the very least, we can have a baseline of preparedness for when the storm makes the news and the community begins to stir. Unlike other natural disasters, hurricanes come with a warning - sometimes as far as a week ahead. While this works to our advantage in some ways, it leads to a panic that is impossible to inculcate through a tornado or earthquake. Thus, having a plan of action and a handful of basic supplies may be the difference between a madhouse Costco run and the ability to remain home, preparing our space for the crash.
For <a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/condos/">Highland Beach condo</a> owners, boating and the water are part of the allure of living here. It is nigh impossible to choose life in this small beachside town without the innate desire to enjoy the waters we're blessed to live upon. For boaters, these tips are a great way to stay on the ball and prepare your boat for a hurricane. Read further in the Highland Beach blog to learn more about boater safety and the ecological care of this special place.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/remove-boat-from-water.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="remove your boat from the water" />
Remove Your Boat From The Water (If You Can)
The first and most obvious step is to remove your boat from the water altogether. Thanks to the relative affluence of Highland Beach residents and the many nearby accommodations, it may be easier than in some places to find an indoor marina or inland location to secure your boat during the worst of the storm. If towing yourself, bring the boat as far inland as possible and secure the trailer with chocks and wheel docks.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/know-your-insurance.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="know your insurance plan" />
Know Your Insurance Plan
Even if your boat survives the worst of the storm, it will likely sustain some form of damage. It's crucial to know the ins and outs of your boater's insurance and to ensure all key documents, photographs, and policy paperwork is removed from the boat and secured safely before the storm strikes. While it's always great to hope for the best, if we weren't forced to think of the worst, the insurance industry wouldn't exist.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/detach-removable-equipment.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="detach moveable equipment" />
Detach and Secure All Moveable Equipment
Start with sails, if you're one of the few avid sailors in our midst. For all other detachable or accessory equipment, ensure you remove anything you can while securing whatever you can't. This includes boat covers, <a href="https://betterboat.com/blogs/pontoon/bimini-covers-for-pontoon-boats/" target="_blank">bimini tops for pontoon boats</a>, cushions, cockpit electronics, and whatever else can be easily removed and may be prone to destruction in high winds or storm surges.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/shutoff-fuel-line.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="shutoff fuel lines" />
Shut Off Your Fuel Lines
This is where things get important... Shut off your fuel lines and remove fuel if possible. This is a non-negotiable way to not only protect our environment from possible leakages but prevent the very worst from happening. While heavy rain and storm surges may prevent the outbreak of fires that could occur in other natural disasters, if fuel lines leak the Intracoastal will be a soupy mess of polluting fuel and brackish water. The best result one could hope for in this case is a mild ecological disaster and at worst an over-water conflagration.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/boat-battery.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="remove boat battery" />
Shut Off the Electrical System and Remove the Battery
The same thing applies here to your electrical system. The primary difference is your battery and electronics do not require a breach nor a spark to ignite. In the event your boat sinks, or is at least submerged partially, your battery will become a massive danger to our ecosystem, the boats around you, and yourself. There is a reason batteries cannot be disposed of in a regular waste system, and this reason is extrapolated tenfold when considering the delicacy of our ecosystem and the potential for severe harm caused by underwater batteries.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/seal-windows-and-hatches.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="seal boat doors and hatches" />
Seal All Doors, Windows, and Hatches
If it's not the storm that damages your boat, it'll be the residual salt, water, and mud that's sure to be caked on when you reapproach your vessel. Properly sealing your entry points to airtightness is a good practice in general, but one that is magnified when a hurricane is taken into account. Even in the best-case scenario in which your boat sustains no serious damage, poorly sealed cracks could be the difference between a severely damaged interior and no damage at all.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/prevent-rope-chafing.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="prevent rope chafing" />
Protect From Rope Chafing And Striking The Pier
If it's not the water and debris from the outside, the damage may stem from your boat haplessly rocking against the pier it's moored to. Adding extra fenders to vulnerable areas of the boat is never a bad idea, especially if you have a smaller craft. As for rope chafing, this occurs when salt and frayed rope are scraped against the surface it's tied to and stems from, leading to much wear and tear on your boat exterior. Adding some sort of protective covering between your mooring lines and the boat itself can prevent cosmetic damage or worse.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/boat-anchor.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="boat anchor" />
Calculate Anchor Line And Mooring Depth
Start by attempting if possible to anchor your boat facing the prevailing winds. Seeing as your boat is designed to power through oncoming waves and sea breeze, the dynamism of its build will come in handy when the wind picks up. As for channel depth, your anchor lines should be ten times the length of the depth beneath your boat. Try throwing at least two anchors before the storm, but ensure both lines are capable of picking up the slack in the event of a severe storm surge.
Learn more about Home and Boat Care In Highland Beach - see below...
<a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/blog/sea-turtle-season-highland-beach-real-estate/">The Do's and Don'ts During Sea Turtle Season</a> | <a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/blog/highland-beach-hurricane-preparedness-5-tips-to-prepare-your-highland-beach-home-for-hurricane-season/">Prepare Your Highland Beach Home For A Hurricane</a>2023-06-24T05:00:00-07:002023-06-06T07:21:22-07:00Anthony Carriuolotag:highlandbeachrealestate.com,2012-09-20:36158Highland Beach Hurricane Preparedness | 5 Tips To Prepare Your Highland Beach Home For Hurricane Season<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/prepare-for-highland-hurricanes.jpg" width="839" height="300" alt="prepare your highland beach home for hurricanes" />
Highland Beach is renowned for its natural bulwark against hurricanes. With a slight uptick in elevation and robust beachfront plant life, Highland Beach is one of the best waterfront communities to protect against storms by nature. Yet, even a fortified palace seated upon a sandy loft is no match for mother nature if preparations are not made. This isn't to scare you or to deter you from seeking beautiful waterfront condos like <a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/wiltshire-house/">The Wiltshire House</a> or <a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/trafalgar/">Trafalgar</a>, but it is meant to heighten your vigilance and provide some tips you may not have learned from conventional wisdom and most commonly available information. Learn the basics and check in with the<a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/blog/"> Highland Beach Real Estate blog</a> to learn more about hurricane preparedness for Highland Beach residents.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/partially-drain-pool.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="partially drain pool" />
If You Own A Pool, Partially Drain It
Some of these tips may be irrelevant if you're the fortunate resident of one of the many<a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/communities/"> luxury condos in Highland Beach</a>, but if you own your own Highland Beach pool, partially draining it a few inches can make a significant difference in flood mitigation. Be sure to know your pool, and the pump system that can break if drained too thoroughly, but consider any contained body of water outside the home as a potential water container, adding much-needed space to account for flood waters.
<a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/communities/"><img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/cut-down-coconuts.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="cut down coconuts" /></a>
Remove Coconuts From Accessible Trees
If you aren't sure of yourself on a ladder or don't own a <a href="https://www.lowes.com/pl/Pole-pruning-saws-Chainsaws-pole-saws-Outdoor-tools-equipment-Outdoors/4294612755">pole saw</a>, then do not attempt to scale palms to remove coconuts. There are many landscaping companies who would provide the service, perhaps at a discount if allowed to savor the nectar and harvest these wonderful tropical fruits. With a powerful blend of nutrients, extremely useful flesh and garment-worthy shells, coconuts are the catch-all for tropical parties. However, when Mother Nature comes to play, these otherwise delicious treats can be turned into cannonballs. If not you, then ensure your association or a more capable pair of hands are removing these potential projectiles before the storm reaches our shores.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/patio-furniture-highland-beach.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="plan for patio furniture" />
Have a Plan For Your Outdoor Furniture and Potted Plants
We hope this is obvious to everyone, but one can never be too sure. Patio furniture, potted plants, and other outdoor accessories must be brought inside prior to the storm reaching shore. Usually, a spare room or section of the living area is covered with a tarp and turned into a staging area where plants, pots, and bulky furniture can rest as the storm passes. Simply put, your job as a Highland Beach homeowner is to secure your belongings and ensure that nothing you neglect to do leads to further ruin. This begins by preventing projectiles from launching from your property and helping any neighbors with theirs.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/bulk-frozen-food.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="bulk frozen food" />
Use Large Food Products To Maintain Freezer Temp
This is a bit unconventional but makes sense. When preparing for a possible power outage, having large, dense frozen foods in the freezer will keep things from thawing faster than piles of added ice can. For example, some hurricane veterans will freeze a whole turkey, crowding the freezer to be sure, but providing days of extra cooling in ways bags of ice could not. The thaw of an entire turkey, or another useful and dense organic material, is significantly more time-consuming than the thaw of ice cubes. Better yet, when all is said and done, you're ready to start cooking!
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/remove-boat-battery-and-fuel.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="remove boat battery and fuel" />
Remove Battery and Portable Fuel From Your Boat
If you're fortunate enough to be a boat owner, you are unfortunately saddled with numerous responsibilities simple landlubbers do not have. Beyond the obvious: tether, secure, tie-down, and protect your dockage, removing the battery and any onboard portable fuel from your boat is a crucial responsibility. Boats may not be entirely destroyed during the storm, but any onboard gas, electrical, or other flammable, pollution causes material should be removed from your boat and stowed away safely (no pun intended.)
For more about Protecting Our Highland Beach Environment - see below...
<a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/blog/5-ways-highland-beach-residents-can-help-prevent-red-tides/">5 Ways You Can Help Prevent Red Tides </a>| <a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/blog/sea-turtle-season-highland-beach-real-estate/">The Do's And Don't For Sea Turtle Season</a>
2023-05-30T05:00:00-07:002023-06-05T12:52:38-07:00Anthony Carriuolotag:highlandbeachrealestate.com,2012-09-20:352035 Reasons To Move To Highland Beach | Highland Beach Condos For Sale<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/5-reasons-to-move-to-highland-beach.jpg" width="839" height="300" alt="5 reasons to move to highland beach" />
Highland Beach is a magnificent gem among gems in one of the most desirable stretches of our eastern seaboard. One of the best-kept secrets of Palm Beach County, this tiny stretch of beachfront real estate is renowned for its waterfront mansions and high-rise luxury condos. Beyond the exquisite and exclusive housing opportunities, there are numerous reasons to choose life in Highland Beach. These 5 reasons to move to Highland Beach may not have anything to do with where you sleep and the home or condo you live in, but they are significant nonetheless. Learn why the tiny beach town of Highland Beach is a unique expression of South Florida real estate, wedged between two of South Florida's most iconic beachfront towns.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/protection-against-hurricanes.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="a natural protection against hurricanes" />
A Natural Bulwark Against Hurricanes
The relatively flat topography of <a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/">Highland Beach Real Estate</a> might lend to the perception that the name is misleading. Yet, Highland Beach is a cut above, no pun intended. In both luxury, and naturality, Highland Beach offers a unique selection of housing opportunities. Indeed, Highland Beach is an average of <a href="https://en-us.topographic-map.com/map-2fh8rr/Highland-Beach/" target="_blank">15 to 20 feet above sea level,</a> with many of the largest homes featuring steeply sloped driveways. While waterfront property always comes with a significant added risk, Highland Beach provides a serious boost to your best prospects against a storm surge and floodwaters during severe weather events.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/no-traffic-lights.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="no traffic lights in highland beach" />
No Traffic Lights!
Traffic lights may not seem like a nuisance, but the absence of traffic lights prevents the stagnation and continued presence of traffic. There are almost always at least a few cars spanning the 1.1 miles of A1A between Boca Raton and Delray Beach, but the flow is continuous due to the lack of stoplights. In addition, this ongoing movement prevents added aerial emissions from polluting the air, the persistent noise of numerous idling vehicles, and allows for easy entry and exit to those looking to simply pass through towards their destination.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/no-restaurant-or-retail-traffic.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="no retail or restaurant traffic" />
No Retail Or Restaurant Traffic
This ties into the previous point, as the lack of business prevents unnecessary traffic, negates the necessity for large parking lots, and ensures that the only traffic that isn't visiting Highland Beach is simply passing through. While there will always be a measure of movement on the lone municipal thoroughfare of Highland Beach, there are a few reasons to stop. If not visiting the public beaches or a Highland Beach resident, the only reason to continue through Highland Beach is to reach a beachfront property nearby to the north or south. This ensures that any through-traffic keeps going, and that the Highland Beach space is purely residential.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/green-sea-turtle.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="green sea turtles" />
A Paradise For Wildlife
The lack of traffic, bright city lights, and bustling waterfront businesses provide wildlife with a perfect strand of beach to nest and thrive. Most notably, sea turtles have found Highland Beach to be the perfect space for their delicate gestational process, as indicated by the numerous cordoned-off areas with known sea turtle nests. With less tourism on the beaches than in nearby Boca Raton or Deerfield Beach, there is less pollution, less noise, and fewer feet padding over the sea oats - which are essential natural protections against erosion and storm surges.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/rising-property-values.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="rising properties" />
Consistent & Growing Property Value
South Florida has held firm even during some of the most significant economic crises of the current century. While the COVID-19 pandemic and crime surges in major cities elsewhere have led to a mass flight to Florida, this aberration in history is not the sole reason Floridian housing prices are high, stable, and primed for growth. Waterfront property in South Florida, despite significant events like the Surfside collapse and recent price reductions to account for inflation, is an undeniable value that will always build and remain desirable.
Looking for Highland Beach Condo Listings? Learn About These Two Fantastic Communities By Clicking Below...
<a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/coronado/">Coronado Ocean Club</a> | <a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/highland-beach-club/">Highland Beach Club</a>2023-05-16T05:00:00-07:002023-05-15T06:39:09-07:00Anthony Carriuolotag:highlandbeachrealestate.com,2012-09-20:35164State Committee Orders Fire Dept. Audit On Behalf Of Highland Beach<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/highland-delray-fire-dispute.jpg" width="839" height="300" alt="highland delray fire department dispute" />
Highland Beach, the tiny, doggedly self-determined beachfront town between Boca Raton and Delray Beach is now inquiring into potential malfeasance regarding its fire department payments. Since 1994, Highland Beach has "rented" fire rescue and EMS services from its northerly neighbor, Delray Beach. This is in part due to the small nature of the city, and A1A serving as its one central public road. The feasibility of the fire and EMS services has never been called into question, as Delray emergency services have never had difficulty reaching their calls.
In spring 2021, Highland Beach commissioners voted to create their own fire and EMS departments, citing high costs as the impetus for this investment. Highland Beach has claimed the increase in personnel and the added expenses were not agreed upon in the mutual contract. At the center of the dispute, lies one of the most egregious claims: that the city of Delray Beach failed to provide financial records supporting their expectations.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/fire-and-ice.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="fire and ice" />
An Icy Showdown With Fire In Focus
Though the relationship on the ground has always been positive, and Highland Beach residents have nothing but praise for the servicemen and women of the Delray FD, Highland Beach has reason to believe there are financial games afoot. Prior to the municipal elections cycle in Palm Beach this past month, a state committee prepared an audit at the behest of <a href="https://www.myfloridahouse.gov/Sections/Representatives/details.aspx?MemberId=4891&LegislativeTermId=90" target="_blank">Congresswoman Peggy Gossett-Seidman</a>, a Highland Beach resident and state representative. An attempt to reach the congresswoman was unsuccessful, though her secretary took our information down and will update us as the case unfolds. It is unclear at this time if Congresswoman Seidman's interest in the audit is self-motivated by her residency or a genuine inquest into potential fiscal mismanagement. We expect that her locality helps her hyperfocus on local issues and that no ulterior motive is at play.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/financial-books.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="financial books" />
What is known is that Delray Beach leveed a 17% increase for fire rescue protection in 2022 - an expense of $781,881. Following a unanimous vote from Highland Beach commissioners to refuse payment. This would increase the overall cost from $4.7 to $5.4 million. For a quick breakdown of some of the crucial facts on both sides of the issue, read below:
Delray Beach plans to increase its EMS personnel from 22.5 to 26.5, all four new employees would be lieutenants
The move would enable a three-person response team to Highland Beach calls, which city commissioners deem unnecessary
Highland Beach currently averages only three calls per day. Commissioners dispute the necessity of a three EMT team.
Delray Beach projected overtime pay to increase 81% and fringe benefits by 37%.
Delray Beach cited the rising cost of healthcare as the primary driver for the increase.
From 2017 to 2019, Highland Beach-assigned personnel responded to 116 more calls in Delray Beach (1,427) than Highland Beach (1,311)
Highland Beach expects to save more than $2M annually following the creation and rollout of its own department.
As more information unfurls, expect <a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/">Champagne & Parisi Real Estate</a> to to bring the latest developments in this back-and-forth tussle between these two competing entities. 2023-04-30T05:00:00-07:002023-04-27T07:01:19-07:00Anthony Carriuolotag:highlandbeachrealestate.com,2012-09-20:352025 Ways Highland Beach Residents Can Help Prevent Red Tides<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/5-ways-you-can-prevent-red-tides.jpg" width="839" height="300" alt="5 ways you can prevent red tides" />
Red Tides, an informalized name for Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs) occur when algae, a plant-like underwater organism grows out of control. Though not all algal blooms are harmful, when a red tide occurs, it endangers the entire ecosystem. A dinoflagellate organism, known scientifically as Karenia brevis, is the culprit behind many of the harmful algal blooms that plague the coasts of Florida. The Gulf Coast, namely the Naples, Ft. Myers, and Tampa Bay areas are especially prone due to the warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico meeting the tributary of the Mississippi River and serving as an outlet for Lake Okeechobee. Though not all causes are man-made, it's clear that this combination of high-density human industrial activity and the fertile warm waters of the Floridian coasts provide the perfect space for red tides to bloom. Though not even the largest mansion on Highland Beach can offset the damage our sugar and hospitality industries are responsible for, as individuals it's our responsibility to be better and do better. These 5 tips to help prevent red tides are easy, low, and sometimes no effort to take. If we as <a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/">Highland Beach Real Estate</a> owners work together and pursue a better tomorrow for the very oceans that brought us here, the impact will likely ripple throughout our communities.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/only-plant-local.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="only plant local" />
Only Plant Local
There are numerous similarities between this blog with our previous entries about maintaining water quality and preventing pollution. This is due to the juxtaposition of wealth, status, and the beachfront we inhabit. There are few coastal areas in the country where you'll find more paved brick driveways and exotic cars than that in Southeast Florida, and the luster of wealth continues through the foliage and decor that greets guests to these properties. If you are blessed enough to own a <a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/communities/">Highland Beach home</a>, you're likely to have a bigger say in your overall impact than a Highland Beach condo owner. When you plant local foliage, you provide a solution that requires less intervention through watering, fertilization, and removal. A local plant is already suited for our subtropical environments, which means less attention, less pollution, and more time enjoying your beautiful home.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/organic-fertilizer.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="organic fertilizer" />
Go Organic!
Artificial fertilizer is one of the most <a href="https://oceanservice.noaa.gov/facts/redtide.html#:~:text=This%20bloom%2C%20like%20many%20HABs,often%20turns%20the%20water%20red." target="_blank">significant culprits behind algal blooms</a>. Alone you can never hope to offset the damage done by numerous hotels, golf courses, professional centers, and negligent homeowners, but as a group, we can make a major impact by simply choosing earth-friendly materials. The runoff from residential fertilizer and pest control plays a major role in the degradation of water quality and the potential for a red tide. Using organic materials in your outdoor spaces all but eliminates your negative contribution to red tides through your home garden.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/grass-car-wash.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="grass car wash" />
Wash Your Car Over Grass, Not Pavement
Washing your car seems harmless enough. After all, it's been many years since South Florida had any sort of water shortage. Yet, it's not as clean as it seems. Washing your car over pavement and near rain gutters means that the numerous chemicals used will find an easy path to the ocean via our wastewater system. Utilizing the natural soaking and erosion prevention properties of your own grass can dramatically reduce the runoff from washing your car. We know how important it is to have that perfect sheen on your beautiful set of wheels, but by moving your car just a few feet in one direction, you can return this simple activity from potentially harmful to innocuous once again.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/cleanup-dog.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="cleanup after dog" />
Clean Up After Your Pets
While you're swapping pellet fertilizer for cow manure, remember that not all... matter is created equal. Cow manure from pasture-raised cattle sold at your garden department is not the same as waste from your golden retriever. We'd hope that common decency and respect for others are part of what built your career to this point, and what made Highland Beach Real Estate affordable for you. Cleaning up after your pet in a town with only one main street should be a no-brainer, but we've been surprised before. Besides it being the right thing to do, pet waste can lead to runoff which affects our wastewater system and ultimately leads to a greater nutritional buildup, especially given the diets of your pets.<br />
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/maintain-mulch.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="maintain mulch and shrubberies" />
Maintain Mulch and Shrubberies
Much like washing your car over grass prevents runoff, proper mulching, sodding, and shrubbery planting can do wonders for the municipal runoff that impacts our water nutrients. Your plants won't just prevent your own home and family from contributing, but will also provide a bulwark towards incoming or outgoing rainwater, and may even play a small role in the protection and recovery from storm surgees in hurricane weather.
Learn more about Highland Beach and be a better steward for our beaches!
<a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/blog/sea-turtle-season-highland-beach-real-estate/">The Do's and Don'ts Of Sea Turtle Season</a> | <a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/blog/5-subtle-ways-you-can-reduce-pollution-at-your-highland-beach-home/">5 Ways To Prevent Pollution at Home</a>2023-04-11T05:00:00-07:002023-05-13T06:20:20-07:00Anthony Carriuolotag:highlandbeachrealestate.com,2012-09-20:32340The Best Highland Beach Condos For Every Purpose | Find Your Perfect Highland Beach Condo<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/best-hb-condos-for-any-purpose.jpg" width="839" height="300" alt="the best highland beach condos for any purpose" />
Highland Beach condos are all luxurious, all beautiful, and all in one of the most desirable slices of land on planet earth. However, not every condo will thread the needle and check every box that you're looking for. While there's not a single unit in Highland Beach we wouldn't mind living in, there are considerations for citizens young and old, pet lovers, and empty nesters, that we organized in our blog below. For questions beyond what a simple few words can answer, rely on our Highland Beach experts to find your perfect waterfront condo.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/privacy-and-security.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="privacy and security" />
Privacy And Security
Highland Beach condos are predominantly behind locked exterior doors, with many featuring a doorman and 24/7 security in conjunction with its existing surveillance protocols. For this and other reasons, there is nothing to fear regarding the safety and security within your Highland Beach condo. However, for the very best in safety, look no further than the likes of <a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/toscana/">Toscana</a>, Boca Highland, and <a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/ocean-grande-place/">Ocean Grande Place</a>.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/upscale-amenities.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="upscale amenities" />
Upscale Amenities
Another offering that Highland Beach Real Estate is hardly short on - upscale amenities are part and parcel of condo living in this beautiful seaside town. However, some places go above and beyond, offering their limited and fortunate residents with the very finest in both services and facilities. Most condos will offer an outdoor pool and lounge area, a well-stocked fitness center, and some indoor seating areas. However, this is a list of the best, and there are some that rise above them all. For some of the best amenities in Highland Beach, look towards <a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/villa-mare/">Villa Mare</a>, <a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/highland-beach-club/">The Highland Beach Club</a>, and <a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/villa-magna/">Villa Magna</a>.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/pet-friendly-beach-condo.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="pet friendly highland beach condos" />
Pet Friendly
There are dog beaches adjacent to Highland Beach, most notably <a href="https://www.myboca.us/953/Bark-Beach-at-Spanish-River-Park" target="_blank">Bark Beach Dog Park</a>. For everything else pet-friendly condo related, see our blog <a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/blog/pet-friendly-condos-in-highland-beach-fl/">HERE</a>.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/beach-club-access.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="beach club access" />
Beach Club Access
There are only a small handful of Highland Beach condos that offer exclusive beach club access. Most notable, are the Boca Highland Condos within the gated cluster of luxury residences. These include <a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/dalton-place/">Dalton Place</a>, the <a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/carlton-house/">Carlton House</a>, <a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/braemar-isle/">Braemar Isle</a>, <a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/grand-cay-estates/">Grand Cay Estates</a>, and <a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/aberdeen-arms/">Aberdeen Arms</a>. In addition, both Toscana and <a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/coronado/">Coronado Beach Club</a> offer adjacent beach club access from their primary residences on the west side of A1A.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/delray-beach-access.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="delray beach access" />
Access To Delray Beach
Highland Beach is wedged between Delray Beach to the north and Boca Raton to the south. Access to either of these cities is as simple as turning left or turning right until you hit the shops, restaurants, and public beaches that are easily reached within moments of leaving your home. For the northernmost condos in Highland Beach, look towards <a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/aberdeen-arms/">Ambassadors East</a>, <a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/townhouses-of-highland-beach/">Townhouses of Highland Beach</a>, and <a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/highland-towers/">Highland Towers</a>.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/boca-access.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="boca raton access" />
Access To Boca Raton
For the inverse, meaning the quickest access to Boca Raton via the southernmost residences on Highland Beach, look towards the Boca Highland cluster of gated condos, <a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/parker-highland/">Parker Highland</a>, and <a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/45-ocean/">45 Ocean</a> to name a few.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/ultra-luxury-condo.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="ultra luxury condo " />
Ultra-Luxury
Last but not least, for those looking to focus in on white glove service, elite amenities, and the most well-appointed condos in Highland Beach, see our blog <a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/blog/5-ultra-luxe-highland-beach-condos-the-most-upscale-highland-beach-condos/">HERE</a>2023-03-26T05:00:00-07:002023-03-16T06:36:43-07:00Anthony Carriuolotag:highlandbeachrealestate.com,2012-09-20:35086Real Estate Content Ideas To Get More Clients<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/409/image/Real-Estate-Content-Ideas-to-Get-More-Clients.jpg" width="839" height="300" alt="real estate content ideas to get more listings" />
Real Estate is growing ever more digital, but as a reputation-based industry with long-term transactions, creating your niche and becoming successful is more than just marketing a product at the point of sale. Agents and brokers know that content of all types is crucial to projecting your expertise and attracting the audience you desire. Here are some terrific content ideas that work online and on paper. Bring these to life and watch your business grow!
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/neighborhood-guides.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="neighborhood guides in highland beach" />
Neighborhood Guides
There’s no better endorsement for a neighborhood than living there yourself! Yet for all others in the area, you can easily visit, compile, and put together guides that will provide your clientele with the latest and most crucial information to hone their decisions. <a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/condos/">Highland Beach condos</a> are a specific niche that are unique even amongst its neighbors. Neighborhood guides can include things like pricing guides, amenity lists, <a href="https://lemongrassasianbistrobocaraton.com/" target="_blank">local restaurants</a>, shops, beautiful photography, and adjacent schools, hospitals, and other essential services.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/home-improvement-tips.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="home improvement tips" />
Home Improvement Tips
Homeowners are always looking for the best cost-to-benefit when remodeling and improving their homes. For starters, present evidence-based, forward-thinking ideas that take your local market into account. For instance, any small improvements that prevent moisture, heat, and pests from entering your home. These are often easy ways to address inefficiencies that can impact costs and quality of life, and are part of owning homes in Boynton Beach and South Florida.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/market-updates.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="current market updates" />
Market Updates
Market updates are a super easy way to stay in touch with your clientele. The MLS offers readymade snapshots of the market, tailored to your specifications – most of which can be conveniently exported into an appealing, visually simplified graphic that is both compelling and informative.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/buying-and-selling-tips.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="buying and selling tips" />
Home Buying and Selling Tips
This is where your experience comes into play. There are often things that are easily overlooked by the average untrained home buyer, hence the need for a Realtor representative to protect you and your bottom line. These tips can be drawn from your prior experiences, with particularly juicy details of past errors sure to pique the interest of your readers.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/client-success-stories.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="client success stories" />
Client Success Stories
While you’re busy warning your clients of past critical failures from uninformed buyers, remember to show the other side of working with you. While it's always a powerful statement to show what can go wrong without the support of a professional, remind clients of the benefits of not only working with a skilled Realtor but working with you.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/new-video-content.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="video content" />
Video Content
Since our phones and computers are more than fast enough to project video by our comments, video content has taken over as the most powerful medium in digital marketing. Video grants you the ability to (obviously) use motion and movement in your marketing, but also allows for you to communicate directly through both auditory and visual mediums.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/local-events.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="local events highland beach" />
Local Events
Local events show your potential clientele that you are present, active, and knowledgeable about your community. For online audiences, it’s very easy to take stories, live broadcasts, and create blog and social media posts before, during, and after events. For your on-the-ground work, what better way to engage your community and network with those closest to you?
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/infographic-content.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="infographic content" />
Infographics
An extension of providing a market report, an infographic is any printed or digital design that shows either how to do something or elaborates on why something is what it is. These often meandering, step-by-step-based graphics are a favorite for anyone looking for quick, digestible, visibly appealing knowledge.2023-03-23T05:00:00-07:002023-03-15T14:47:59-07:00Anthony Carriuolotag:highlandbeachrealestate.com,2012-09-20:710Sea Turtle Nesting Season On Highland Beach | Highland Beach Real Estate<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/the-dos-and-donts-during-sea-turtle-season.jpg" width="839" height="300" alt="the dos and dont's of sea turtle season in highland beach" />
Highland Beach is a mere sliver of <a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/communities/">waterfront real estate</a> nestled between Boca Raton and Delray Beach. Thanks to the unorthodox founding of this tiny waterfront town with less than 5,000 annual residents, the city has become a uniquely suitable nesting site for sea turtles. These spectacular, oft-endangered creatures are some of the most majestic fauna that graces our regional waters. As those fortunate enough to enjoy living on Highland Beach, it's our job to be stewards of our own backyard, and consider the needs of the land and nature that has been here long before we arrived. For newcomers, the nuances of sea turtle nesting season can be confusing, or unknown. As your Highland Beach Realtors, we may not be ecologists, but we know the best and worst practices while being mindful of sea turtles on Highland Beach. Here are some do's and dont's to be aware of as sea turtle nesting season on Highland Beach quickly approaches.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/dim-outdoor-lighting.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="dim outdoor lighting" />
Remove Or Dim Outdoor Lighting
During midsummer, you may have noticed that beachfront lights are either dimmed, tinted red, or minimized altogether. Sea turtles require darkness and relative quiet to most successfully begin their nest and bury their eggs. Bright, especially fluorescent lights can break the turtles immersion and make incubation much more challenging. For those <a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/villa-mare/">living directly on the ocean</a>, it is especially important to be wary of motion sensing lights, backyard patio lighting, and any music, sounds, or flashes that may emerge from the home or beyond.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/flash-photography.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="no flash photography on the beach" />
No Flash Photography or Flashlights on the Beachfront
Even though there's not much to trip over on Highland Beach, it's still tempting to shine a little light where we're walking and peer out into the surf. The same principle regarding outdoor ambient lighting is more acutely shared when directing light on the beach. Whether by flashlight, or flash photography, bright lights, especially rapid bursts, can be very harmful to sea turtle nests.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/caution-tape.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="yellow caution tape" />
Watch For Yellow Tape
You may have seen the small wooden stakes forming squares of caution tape around certain sites on the beach. These areas have been spotted by local wildlife officials as active sea turtle nests. It is absolutely paramount that these are avoided, and that beachgoers consider putting some distance between their chosen space and any active sea turtle nests. The eggs and shifting sands around them are easily subject to disturbance. The sites are best kept as far as possible from the nearest beachgoers, especially children or anyone with speakers, or the potential to lose litter from their belongings.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/beach-trash-can.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="beach trash can" />
Properly Dispose of Food Products and Containers
This is obvious, but it still must be reiterated. Garbage, especially plastics have a massively negative impact on our oceans, while any food debris may attract predators that can harm the sea turtles. Whether inadvertent or through a direct attack, the presence of even small drifting predators like opossums and racoons can disturb, or destroy nesting sea turtles. Be sure to carry as much as you can off the beach, dispose of everything you bring that isn't coming home, and grab a few stray pieces while you're there!
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/sea-turtle-hatchling.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="sea turtle hatchlings" />
Never Touch A Sea Turtle Hatchling
This is THE most important of our five sea turtle nesting tips. If you're blessed enough to witness the rare hatching of these spectacular creatures, the temptation is to lift their tiny bodies and carry them to the beach. Never, we repeat, NEVER touch these turtles. What may take a few steps for you is quite literally a life-and-death struggle for these beautiful hatchlings. A sea turtle who cannot make it into the surf and out to sea on their own is guaranteed to die. While it's certainly sad to think about, by helping these hatchlings we are not only guaranteeing, but expediting their demise. The slow crawl from shoreline to surf is a rite of passage that is essential to the lifespan of sea turtles, and it is not our job to interrupt the flow of nature, no matter how good-natured or tempting it may be.
Learn more about Highland Beach Natural Living...
<a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/blog/5-subtle-ways-you-can-reduce-pollution-at-your-highland-beach-home/">How To Reduce Pollution at Home</a> | <a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/blog/-5-ways-to-love-highland-beach-keep-highland-beach-clean/">5 Ways To Keep Our Drinking Water Clean</a>
2023-02-15T06:00:00-07:002023-02-23T08:43:47-07:00Anthony Carriuolotag:highlandbeachrealestate.com,2012-09-20:323415 Ultra-Luxe Highland Beach Condos | The Most Upscale Highland Beach Condos<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/ultraluxe-highland-beach.jpg" width="839" height="300" alt="5 ultraluxe highland beach condos" />
Highland Beach condos are known for their immediate beach access and refined luxury amenities. These lovely condos outfit a stretch of barely more than a mile, giving the small but fortunate year-round population of Highland Beach a beautiful platform to live their best lives. In truth, every Highland Beach condo for sale is a spectacular expression of the best of the South Florida lifestyle. Yet, some stand above all, whether in size, scale, or luxury appointments. These five might not be your top five, but among several selections, these 5 ultraluxe Highland Beach condos represent the very best in Highland Beach Real Estate. Read on to learn more about each!
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/Villa_Magna.jpg" width="838" height="300" alt="villa magna front entry" />
<a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/villa-magna/">Villa Magna</a>
Villa Magna includes 89 luxurious condos directly on the waterfront. Featuring breathtaking views, these condos are amongst the most valued and in-demand in the <a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/buy/">Highland Beach Real Estate market</a>. Beyond the magnificent lobby with a 24/7 doorman and security, features include oversized gourmet kitchens, crown molding, marble floors, and a paradisal view of both the ocean and Intracoastal. Additionally, Villa Magna condos sit on the northern edge of Highland Beach, ensuring near-instant access to Delray Beach and its many activities.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/toscana-condos-1.jpg" width="837" height="315" alt="toscana condos" />
<a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/toscana/">Toscana</a>
Perhaps the best known of our list, Toscana's remarkable presence looms large over the Intracoastal and is seen on both sides of A1A. Toscana features its private beach club to accommodate its residence, along with a host of lavish accommodations and in-house services. One walk through these spacious condos will be all you need to recognize the superb luxury afforded to each fortunate resident, beginning with its secure underground parking garage. Each Toscana condo features custom marble baths, top-tier appliances, nine-foot ceilings, and extravagant double-door entries. The grounds include a full-service concierge, har-tru tennis courts, a putting green, a fitness center, and three heated swimming pools to name just a few of the many offerings found at Toscana Highland Beach.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/ocean-place-estates.jpg" width="837" height="375" alt="ocean place estates" />
<a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/ocean-place-estates/">Ocean Place Estates</a>
Featuring only 11 ultra-exclusive Highland Beach estates, these Mediterranean-style masterpieces are some of the rarest and most sought-after homes on Highland Beach. Each home in this intimate community was built with the utmost dedication to detail, from door to door and everything in between. These open floor plans feature gourmet chef kitchens, shimmering swimming pools, granite countertops and marble floors, home gyms, and entertainment rooms. Each home includes beach access, adding to the sense of privacy behind the 24/7 manned gate. While technically not a condo community, we'd be remiss not to include Ocean Place Estates when talking Highland Beach Luxury Real Estate.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/villa-mare.jpg" width="837" height="419" alt="villa mare" />
<a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/villa-mare/">Villa Mare</a>
The second of our "Villa" entries, Villa Mare is just steps away from the Atlantic Ocean. Open floor plans give way to elegant wooden shaker cabinets, crown molding, marble floors, private balconies and so much more. These condos are more spacious and expensive than Villa Magna but show their value at every turn. With an elegant sundeck and a beautiful swimming pool to buoy your ocean and indoor experiences, the lifestyle at Villa Mare is something sought after from every corner of the world. With just 31 condos in total, residents of Villa Mare rise each morning to the beautiful sunrise and sea breeze, filling them with gratitude.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/3200-ocean-boulevard-new.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="3200 south ocean blvd" />
3200 South Ocean
Last but far from least, the newest building on Highland Beach has made its presence known in recent days. A stark ivory building on the west side of A1A, this midrise Highland Beach condo includes only 20 residences. The boutique-style building was completed in 2016, and since that has carved an identity as one of the shining stars of a resplendent condo lineup. Condos at 3200 South Ocean range from 2,215 square feet to a staggering 8,038, featuring 10-foot ceilings, European-style cabinetry, designer kitchens, floor-to-ceiling impact windows and so much more. Amidst an ever-competitive luxury condo climate on Highland Beach, look no further than 3200 South Ocean as a new(er) option to choose your Highland Beach condo.
Looking to learn more about Highland Beach Luxury Real Estate? Read Our Luxury-Focused Blogs Below...
<a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/blog/build-your-perfect-highland-beach-outdoor-kitchen-highland-beach-homeowner-advice/">Build A Perfect Highland Beach Outdoor Kitchen</a> | <a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/blog/5-tasteful-highland-beach-waterfront-patio-accessories-beach-house-decor/">5 Tasteful Patio Accessories</a>
2023-02-04T06:00:00-07:002024-02-22T10:19:31-07:00Anthony Carriuolotag:highlandbeachrealestate.com,2012-09-20:333095 Affordable Highland Beach, FL Condos | Affordable Luxury Real Estate<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/affordable-highland-beach-luxury.jpg" width="839" height="300" alt="affordable highland beach luxury" />
Highland Beach, FL certainly could be seen by some as a "<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Millionaires%27_Mile">millionaire mile</a>." After all, the tiny beachfront town of just a few thousand is laden with <a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/property-search/search-form/?listtype=1,2&listingstatus=Active,Coming%20Soon&city=Highland%20Beach">luxury waterfront condos</a>, beachfront and Intracoastal mansions, and high-end townhomes. Yet, despite all the glamor and exclusivity of this spectacular community nestled between Boca and Delray, there still remain options for those with discerning taste who aren't looking to pay exorbitant prices for unneeded amenities. For those of you searching for the good life at a great price tag, here are five delightfully affordable Highland Beach condo communities.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/Seagate-Highland-new.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="seagate of highland beach" />
<a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/seagate-highland/">Seagate of Highland</a>
Seagate of Highland is the first on our list, with a distinct ivory and gold sign denoting the entryway to this lovely Highland Beach condo. This 55+ condo community sits on a 12-acre property with 316 premium residences. Outside its immediate proximity to the Atlantic Ocean, residents enjoy a host of on-site amenities such as the elegant clubhouse, waterside bbq and picnic area, and private beach access. For those seeking a more active day, residents can enjoy two heated swimming pools, a private marina, shuffleboard courts, and a putting green.<a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/seagate-highland/"></a><a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/seagate-highland/"></a>
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/Ambassadors_East.jpg" width="838" height="300" alt="ambassadors highland beach" />
<a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/ambassadors-east/">Ambassadors east</a>
Ambassadors East includes three waterfront buildings along the sand overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. Included among the upscale amenities offered at Ambassadors East are its sauna, billiards room, fitness center, social rooms, and swimming pools. Each unit is a 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom beauty equipped with numerous upgrades such as marble, hardwood, or tile flooring, impact windows and stainless steel appliances. As a resident of Ambassadors East of Highland Beach, you will feel the elegance around every corner from the moment you enter your condo.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/regency_highland.jpg" width="838" height="300" alt="regency highland beach gate" />
<a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/regency-highland/">Regency Highland</a>
Regency Highland sits immersed in one of the greenest spaces in the otherwise bright and blue stretch of A1A adjacent to Highland Beach. This gated complex consists of three properties: a 14-story high-rise condo with 190 residences, a six-story midrise including 24 condos, and six exclusive townhomes. Due to its presence behind a rare green space on the west side of A1A, Regency Highland has often been described as a "hidden gem" by Realtors and speculators alike. Featured on the property is its fully equipped fitness center, private marina with 18 boat slips, a private beach, billiards room, sauna, and covered parking garage. For those seeking seclusion and security without spending millions, look no further than Regency Highland.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/penthouse-highlands.jpg" width="837" height="350" alt="penthouse highlands" />
<a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/penthouse-highlands/">Penthouse Highlands</a>
Penthouse Highlands is a 7-story midrise condo on the Intracoastal side of A1A. Residents enjoy year-round resort-style living on the premises. There is something in store for every resident of Penthouse Highlands. Active residents may enjoy the well-appointed fitness center, while those seeking a calm day under the blue skies of Highland Beach can enjoy the pool, sundeck, or cool off in the resident lounge.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/45_Ocean.jpg" width="838" height="300" alt="45 ocean front sign" />
<a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/45-ocean/">45 Ocean</a>
Last but not least, 45 Ocean, once known as Ambassador South, rounds out our list. Two ten-story beachfront buildings include 160 private Highland Beach condos offering two-bedroom floorplans between 1,100 and 1,200 feet. For amenity seekers, the shimmering beachfront swimming pool, outdoor gas grills, and lounge space with patio furniture and tables headline the vibrant waterfront lifestyle mere steps away from your condo. For indoor enthusiasts, the billiards room, party room with a full dance floor, fitness center, and full kitchen give plenty of options for rainy days and social gatherings. With 24 hour security on one side and the vast Atlantic Ocean on the other, sleep soundly knowing you live in one of the best marriages of form, function, and price in Highland Beach Real Estate.
Looking for something a bit more? Much more? Visit these high-end Highland Beach Luxury Condos here:
<a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/braemar-isle/">Braemar Isle</a> | <a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/toscana/">Toscana</a> | <a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/villa-mare/">Villa Mare</a>
2023-01-23T06:00:00-07:002023-01-04T09:27:37-07:00Anthony Carriuolotag:highlandbeachrealestate.com,2012-09-20:1326Highland Beach Pet Friendly Condos | Highland Beach Condos For Sale<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/pet-friendly-highland-beach-condos.jpg" width="839" height="300" alt="pet friendly highland beach condos" />
Below, we list all pet-friendly condos along the shimmering 1.1-mile strand known as Highland Beach, Florida. This masterful blend of natural perfection and human ingenuity has yielded one of the greatest luxury communities in South Florida. When reading this list and inquiring about these fabulous Highland Beach condos, be sure to communicate with your Realtor and condo association to ensure you are up to date and compliant with any requirements and restrictions before moving forward with your pets.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/3200-ocean-boulevard-new.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="3200 south ocean front entry" />
3200 South Ocean
3200 South Ocean is one of the newest <a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/communities/">luxury waterfront condominium buildings in Highland Beach, FL</a>. 3200 South Ocean comprises 20 pet-friendly condos with options for two to three-bedroom floor plans. Condos for sale in 3200 South Ocean range in size from 2,215 to 8,038 square feet. This ultra-prime location sits on the Intracoastal side of A1A, featuring designer baths, custom kitchens, 10-foot ceilings, and expansive private balcony with stunning views.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/45_Ocean.jpg" width="838" height="300" alt="45-ocean-front" />
<a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/45-ocean/">45 Ocean</a>
<br />45 Ocean is one of the most affordable condo communities in Highland Beach. 160 pet-friendly condos in 45 Ocean sit right along the ocean. These two-bedroom condos range in size from 1,100 to 1,200 square feet. Formerly known as Ambassador South, 45 Ocean includes some of the most affordable condos on Highland Beach, providing the preeminent beachfront lifestyle from a condo directly on the sand, all wrapped up at far less than $1 Million per unit.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/Casuarina_.jpg" width="838" height="300" alt="casurina-front-gate" />
<a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/casuarina/">Casuarina</a>
<a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/casuarina/"></a><br />Casuarina is a luxury waterfront condo building that is also pet-friendly. Casuarina is comprised of 54 condos that sit between the Intracoastal and the Atlantic Ocean in Highland Beach, FL. These two to three-bedroom condos are sized between 1,500 and 2,500 square feet. Casuarina residents can feel safe and at home behind 24-hour security, enjoying such fineries as stainless steel appliances, Roman baths, and expansive floorplans.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/Highland-Beach-Club-amenities.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="highland beach club front facade" />
<a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/highland-beach-club/">Highland Beach Club</a>
<br />Highland Beach Club is a resort-style condo building on the southern edges of Highland Beach. 200 units offer pet-friendly condos along the waterfront.. Condos in Highland Beach Club have two to three bedrooms and range in size between 1,400 and 1,500 square feet. This 14-acre, beautifully landscaped beach property offers year-round resort-style amenities
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/Ocean-Terrace-new.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="ocean terrace front north entry" />
<a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/ocean-terrace/">Ocean Terrace</a>
<br />Ocean Terrace is an upscale high-rise condo building that stands above the beautiful Atlantic Ocean. 43 pet-friendly condos, sized between 1,800 to 3,000 square feet, comprise Ocean Terrace. Enjoy resort-style amenities with your furry friend by your side. This superb condo community sits on the ocean side of A1A, offering an ivory-white beacon of luxury living to those gazing up at its lofty floors. Residents enjoy fine home appointments, such as chef's kitchens, marble floors, oversized bathrooms with steam showers, new appliances, impact windows, and so much more.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/Parker_Highland_.jpg" width="838" height="300" alt="parker highland front entry" />
<a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/parker-highland/">Parker Highland</a>
<br />Parker Highland is a luxury waterfront condo building in Highland Beach, FL. Condos for sale in Parker Highland range in size from 2,000 to 4,500 square feet. These pet-friendly condos sit right along the sandy beach where you can soak up the Florida sun year-round. Residents of Parker Highland enjoy massive kitchens with large windows, granite countertops, and plenty of natural lighting around every corner of the open-floor plans these condos are built around.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/Toscana-amenities.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="toscana front gate" />
Toscana
<br />Toscana is a gated condominium community sitting on the water in Highland Beach, FL. 421 luxury condos are pet-friendly for new residents with furry friends. <a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/toscana/">Condos for sale in Toscana</a> have two to five bedrooms and range in size between 2,000 and 5,000 square feet. Multiple towering beige buildings sit aloft on a slight incline, providing natural protection from potential storm surges. With its private beach club, Toscana is one of the most exclusive and renowned <a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/condos/">Highland Beach condos</a>.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/Trafalgar_.jpg" width="838" height="300" alt="trafalgar front sign" />
<a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/trafalgar/">Trafalgar</a>
<br />Trafalgar is an exclusive waterfront condo building located in the Southern part of Palm Beach County. 56 luxury units comprise the Trafalgar community and have two to four bedrooms. These Highland Beach pet-friendly condos range from 1,500 to over 3,000 square feet. This exquisite waterfront condo community features private balconies, large windows, and a natural ambiance overlooking our beautiful Atlantic Ocean.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/Villa_Costa.jpg" width="838" height="300" alt="villa costa front entry" />
<a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/villa-costa/">Villa Costa</a>
<br />Villa Costa is a luxury condominium community in Highland Beach, FL. 36 pet-friendly condos comprise Villa Costa and come with two to four bedrooms. These private condos range in size from 1,600 to just under 6,000 square feet. Stunning aquatic views are only part of what makes rising in this beautiful pet-friendly Highland Beach condo special. Marble flooring, huge master suites, and floor-to-ceiling windows make for year-round natural majesty at Villa Costa.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/Villa-Mare-new.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="villa mare front sign" />
<a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/villa-mare/">Villa Mare</a>
<br />Villa Mare is an oceanfront luxury condo building that sits between the Intracoastal Waterway and the Atlantic Ocean. 31 Highland Beach pet-friendly condos comprise the Villa Mare building. Condos for sale in Villa Mare have three bedrooms and range in size from 2,500 to 3,200 square feet. Villa Mare condos for sale include magnificent upgrades such as marble flooring, crown molding, new appliances, private balconies, and a 5-star resort-style treatment.
Learn more about the fertile landscape of luxury condos in Highland Beach! <a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/blog/">Click to read the rest of our blogs.</a>2023-01-11T06:00:00-07:002024-02-22T10:02:00-07:00Anthony Carriuolotag:highlandbeachrealestate.com,2012-09-20:30691Highland Beach Home Maintenance | A Quick Guide To Keeping Your Home Clean<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/highland-home-maintenance.jpg" width="839" height="300" alt="highland beach home maintenance guide" />
Living in a beautiful Highland Beach home is a slice of paradise that is the envy of the world. However, with all oceanfront real estate, there are nuances that are specific to caring for your home. With a lifetime under the beaming Florida sun, surrounded by salt spray and high humidity, there are many ways that a Highland Beach home can and will deteriorate without the proper care. Inland homes face similar challenges, but with the proximity to the waterfront comes a need to focus on issues that are amplified due to the oceanfrontage. Learn more about ways to keep your Highland Beach home safe, clean, and valuable!
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/rusty-metal.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="rusty screw in metal surface" />
Check Metal Fixtures For Rust
Highland Beach truly puts the "beach" in its name. With no residency more than a few feet away from a large saltwater body (our Intracoastal or Atlantic Ocean) its key to keep an eye on your metal fixtures, especially screws, nails, and other fasteners that keep things in place. There are a number of ways to prevent and protect against the wear and tear of salt spray, but being aware and vigilant of your needs in the first place is the best way to be as a Highland Beach real estate owner.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/salt-spray.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="salt spray " />
Protect Surfaces From Salt Spray
What's true for the fasteners is true for everything. Salt can, and will reduce the longevity of paint, wood, metal, and textiles. Be sure to account for all surfaces along every side of your house and ensure the proper treatments are in place for each respective material. As a new Highland Beach homeowner, weatherproofing your home and belongings in this way will help you save big in the future.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/caulking-windows.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="caulking windows" />
Properly Seal Doors & Windows
Salt, moisture, and heat all wreak havoc on your home surfaces and your power bill. Proper sealant application to all doors and windows will save money and protect your home interior from the creeping miasma of Florida's remarkable midsummer humidity. During the sweeping rains of our hurricane season, and occasionally during a hurricane itself, windows may not be broken but water can easily seep in through tiny cracks that are otherwise invisible to most.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/wash-patio.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="wash sand off patio" />
Wash Sand Off Patios and Indoor Spaces
We've written about the value of a Highland Beach home, especially when an <a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/blog/build-your-perfect-highland-beach-outdoor-kitchen-highland-beach-homeowner-advice/">outdoor kitchen and patio space</a> are part of the property. It's easy to kick off our sandals and walk directly on the sand, enjoying the freedom of owning a Highland Beach condo right on the water. However, sand, like salt and water, wears down your home. When you tread sand onto your decking and continue walking over and across it, the granules wear down the surface, often removing whatever weatherproofing to protect from moisture and furthering the wear and tear of your property.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/call-for-help.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="call for help" />
Know When To Call For Help
This one goes out to all the old-school DIY dads out there, who may have a project or two that's too urgent to be stubborn about. There are intricacies that are specific to owning waterfront property that might be out of the league of a DIY homeowner. Plumbing, electrical, and structural work are not something to scoff at, and chances are anyone who can afford a brilliant Highland Beach home can swallow their pride and call in the cavalry. If you're looking for a recommended service provider, speak with our <a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/about/">Highland Beach agents</a> to learn more about who to call for what you need.2022-12-06T06:00:00-07:002022-12-17T09:04:27-07:00Anthony Carriuolotag:highlandbeachrealestate.com,2012-09-20:306905 Subtle Ways You Can Reduce Pollution At Your Highland Beach Home <img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/hb-reduce-pollution.jpg" width="839" height="300" alt="highland beach ways to reduce pollution" />
Living on the waterfront provides you with a special opportunity to rise and shine in the lap of luxury. However, with the luxuriousness of your Highland Beach home comes to a greater responsibility. Our oceans are our largest, most biodiverse, and most important ecosystems on the planet, and they are essential to the health of our environment. As a Highland Beach homeowner, you have one of the most untouched, private, and spectacular beaches in America at your feet, and thus a relationship with our oceans that is a remarkable privilege that must be taken seriously. The way you eat, clean, and life can have a significant impact (or lack thereof) on the wellness of our oceans. Read on through the Highland Beach blog to learn more about how to care for your Highland Beach home, and Highland Beach itself!
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/organic-textiles.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="organic microfiber free textiles" />
Choose Textiles With No Synthetic Microfibers
Your choice of textiles is crucial to your contribution to, or not to pollution in our ocean. Microfibers are synthetic threads found in materials like rayon, spandex, and polyester that accumulate in the ocean, leeching chemicals onto plastics and toxifying our waters. Microfibers are frequently found in sea life, much of which is served as food, further depreciating the healthiness of seafood. Using natural materials like cotton, bamboo, and hemp keeps microfibers out of the ocean while providing all the comfort and durability you need to cover the bases from your pants to your patio furniture.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/beach-cleanup.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="beach cleanup" />
Organize A Mini Beach Cleanup
As a Highland Beach resident, you are guaranteed to live on, or across from the Atlantic Ocean. Long walks on the beach might not be your favorite activity, but it's almost impossible to imagine living in a <a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/single-family-homes/">Highland Beach home</a> without spending time on our magnificent white sand beaches. Knowing your distance to the ocean, how hard could it be to bring a small bag or bucket with you to clean up a few pieces of wayward trash during your next trip on the sand? Beyond yourself, get your friends and family involved, organize a little walk, and feel good about actively supporting the beauty and health of our oceans.<br />
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/solar-battery.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="solar battery" />
Use Small Solar Chargers For Certain Devices
Have you seen these small, phone-sized solar batteries? While not as efficient as many forms of battery backup, having a small solar charger like this adds to the enjoyment you'll have on the beach without worrying about battery life. At home, keep one of these on the windowsill and take advantage of the opportunity to charge and recharge small devices like your phone, tablet, speaker, and even laptop depending on the potency and charge life of your solar battery. What's better than charging up with the sunrise?! It practically pays for itself.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/gas-leafblower.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="gas leafblower" />
Avoid Gas Powered Lawn Equipment
Thanks largely to the limited lawn sizes and the natural durability of our tropical foliage, the need for heavy lawn care is reduced. However, if you're doing your lawn work, be sure to use electric lawn equipment. While not as powerful as gas-powered lawn equipment, the reduction in pollution and the simplicity of charging your equipment compared to purchasing gas should seal the deal for anyone looking to keep yard work simple and enjoy life without air (and noise) pollution.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/natural-candles.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="natural scents and candles" />
Replace Artificial Scents, House Cleaners, and Chemicals
Start with all household cleansers, and polishes, and work your way to your topical solutions. Did you know the body wash you choose and the scented candles you enjoy could contribute to hormone imbalance in addition to atmospheric and aquatic pollution? With so many options and terrific products like organic<a href="https://www.etsy.com/market/organic_soy_candles"> soy wax </a>candles to name one of many, it's easy to reduce the runoff pollution in your life and take better care of your skin, hair, nails, and even your mind!
To learn more about Highland Beach Home Living - see below...
<a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/blog/build-your-perfect-highland-beach-outdoor-kitchen-highland-beach-homeowner-advice/">Build Your Perfect Highland Beach Outdoor Kitchen</a> | <a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/blog/5-tasteful-highland-beach-waterfront-patio-accessories-beach-house-decor/">5 Tasteful Patio Accessories</a>
2022-11-21T06:00:00-07:002022-11-07T10:37:08-07:00Anthony Carriuolotag:highlandbeachrealestate.com,2012-09-20:31345Build Your Perfect Highland Beach Outdoor Kitchen | Highland Beach Homeowner Advice<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/perfect-highland-beach-outdoor-kitchen.jpg" width="839" height="300" alt="build your perfect highland beach kitchen" />
Every <a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/single-family-homes/">Highland Beach Home</a> and Condo is a waterfront property. Regardless of where your home rests, the inevitability of wear & tear is omnipresent due to the consistent heat, humidity, and salt spray in the air. Highland Beach waterfront real estate is among the most sought-after in America, and for good reason! Beach parties and patio soirees are all the rage for the many upper-class residents who call Highland Beach home, and for those who can afford them, outdoor kitchens punctuate the emphasis on melding luxury with our naturally majestic Atlantic oceanfront. While we don't claim to be interior (or exterior) designers, we have seen quite a few spectacular outdoor kitchens in Highland Beach homes. From our experience and with the help of a few experts, we learned some of the most important things to ponder when building your perfect Highland Beach outdoor kitchen!
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/waterproof-seating.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="waterproof your patio seating" />
Weatherproof Your Decking and Furniture
It should come across as fairly obvious that your outdoor appliances require stainless steel and adequate cover. Thankfully, many Highland Beach homes include an area for outdoor grilling and dining under shaded coverage. However, when selecting outdoor, open-air furniture, many Highland Beach homeowners neglect some of the most important details - such as the materials you choose and the protection you provide. If any wood, metal, or textiles are incorporated on your patio - whether as flooring, furniture, or something else - the first step is to properly waterproof everything. If you're not sure, hire a professional. This crucial first step will ensure the beauty and longevity of your outdoor kitchen remains for years to come.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/upgrade-seating.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="upgrade patio seating" />
Upgrade Your Seating
After choosing your cooking surface and designing your layout, the next most important thing has to be where the guests will sit! After all, on a hot day, nothing will send your friends and family scurrying inside than uncomfortable, hot, and otherwise dreadful furniture. Many outdoor couches and seats are less-than-comfortable thanks to their design in part accounting for the ravages of nature - but this doesn't mean your guests need to sit on red hot wrought iron to eat outside. Take a few minutes to research what types of materials and builds are offered as part of today's patio furniture. You'd be surprised at how much has been innovated in recent years!
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/choose-your-extras.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="choose your patio accents" />
Choose Your Extras
"Extras" can mean anything from bolster pillows to accent tables, candle sconces, and beyond. The color, design, and even the material itself can determine the overall look of your Highland Beach outdoor kitchen. Beyond beautifying your space, it's important to realize just how absurdly expensive some of these small items can be. You may spend $1000 on a terrific outdoor couch, and $200 on a single clay sculpture to hang from the wall. The cost:benefit ratio of patio accents is the bread and butter of the industry, as many manufacturers will make their margins on smaller items that require less assembly, labor, and material costs. Lastly, remember that not every small accent will be sold as weatherproof. Choose your extras wisely from every angle, and watch these selections illuminate your outdoor kitchen!
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/your-style.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="make it your style" />
Make It Your Style
Playing off the previous point, this is your slice of beauteous Highland Beach Real Estate. You don't need to follow the ever-popular Mediterranean Revivalist theme, nor the ivory and cerulean that marks the modern South Florida waterfront home, but you should follow your heart and choose furniture, color, and textures that match your tastes. Let your style sing and choose the things that make you happy! Just don't forget to waterproof them.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/be-smart-with-propane.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="be smart with propane" />
Be Smart With Gas And Propane
Lastly, but most importantly, is to be smart with gas and propane. This plays off the first point, to ensure anything powered, water-sensitive, or flammable be kept well beyond the edge of the outdoors. Whether that be under an overhang, in a special container, or elsewhere altogether, you don't stand to gain anything by being neglectful with the most dangerous yet necessary component of your Highland Beach outdoor kitchen. For affluent homeowners, a direct line can be run from the home to the outdoor kitchen, erasing any concerns related to the storage and deployment of propane canisters. For everyone else, proper safety and storage is the first fundamental to a successful cookout. Ensure your cooking space is uninterrupted and kept safe from potentially inebriated partygoers, pets, improperly kept sharp objects, and anything else that should be kept away from fire and food.
Does a Highland Beach Outdoor Kitchen sound like a dream? Visit our Highland Beach <a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/single-family-homes/">Homes </a>and <a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/townhomes/">Townhouses </a>pages to make your wish a reality!2022-11-02T05:00:00-07:002022-10-31T08:14:58-07:00Anthony Carriuolotag:highlandbeachrealestate.com,2012-09-20:30666 5 Ways To Love Highland Beach | Keep Highland Beach Clean! <img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/keep-hb-clean.jpg" width="839" height="300" alt="5 ways to keep highland beach clean" />
Highland Beach is a waterfront community of homes, condos, townhomes, and villas that resides exclusively on the shores of the Atlantic Ocean between Boca Raton and Delray Beach. The determined, affluent community is an ecological blessing, however unintentional, in large part due to the city's existence itself. With no traffic lights, minimal night activity and private, low-trafficked beaches, the town has become a haven for sea turtles, oceanic birds, fish, crustaceans, and more. For your part, acknowledge the privilege that comes with living on this immaculate strip of land and its neighboring waters, and learn how you can keep Highland Beach clean!
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/beach-trash.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="beach trash container" />
Bring A Trash Container To The Beach
We love the motto "five pieces a day." This philosophy governs our belief when it comes to everyday life, not just on the beach. Bring a bag, small container, or another receptacle for trash will not only give you a convenient way to dispose of any of your own trash, but encourage the occasional pickup of wayward beach garbage. The beach is the first line of civilization where all citizens reside behind, therefore protecting Highland Beach from litter is to defend the frontlines of our living space. Having a way to quickly dispose of trash, whether yours or not is a small step towards the broader goal of a constantly clean beach.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/patio-glass.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="glass on patio" />
Say No To Patio Glass
There's a reason smart <a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/bel-lido-isle/">Highland Beach condo</a> associations prohibit glass by the pool, and it's the same reason you should keep the glass off your patio. Glass is the only container that shatters into tiny, razor-sharp, transparent pieces that are highly dangerous and difficult to find. A broken bottle at the bottom of a pool is a death knell for any pool party - and a risk that isn't worth bringing to the beach. Even though you'd be hard-pressed to shatter the glass on the sand, there is no point to assume the risk when other, more beach-friendly containers can be found with the same beverages you're likely to choose.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/wind-activity.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="beach squall" />
Be Mindful Of Wind Activity<br /><br />
Wind is always more acutely felt on the beach, and can easily carry trash hundreds of feet from where you last left it. This is especially true for empty wrappers, plastics, paper goods, and other unsustainable products often used at pool and beach parties. Beyond worrying about trash, wind activity can lift large objects and cast them far adrift. In some cases, especially those with open-air patios on waterfront real estate. Objects as large as furniture, umbrellas, cushions, and more can be hurled for miles, sometimes even into the surf. If you choose to employ large, lightweight furniture on your Highland Beach patio, be sure to have a plan to take down any concerning pieces, contain loose accessories, and tighten hardware.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/sustainable-textiles.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="sustainable textiles" />
Purchase Sustainable Textiles
Sustainable textiles extend to every facet of your Highland Beach furniture, including your clothing itself! Very few people associate clothing with oceanic pollution, but did you know that <a href="https://www.commonobjective.co/article/microfibres-what-to-know-and-do-beatplasticpollution#:~:text=Over%20a%20third%20(35%20percent,the%20washing%20of%20synthetic%20clothes." target="_blank">over a third of all microplastics found in the world's oceans are from synthetic textiles?</a> The unholy alliance between fast fashion and waterfront real estate is clear from South Beach to Palm Beach. Choosing materials for yourself, and the upholstery inside the home and especially on your patio, can impact the overall pollutant contribution from your home. Choosing materials made from the likes of bamboo, cotton, hemp, or linen will protect our oceans from wayward microplastic release. Materials like nylon, polyester, rayon, and spandex, while used broadly in swimsuit materials, are not good for the environment.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/lead-by-example.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="lead by example" />
Lead By Example
Lastly, is to take advantage of the good nature of humans! Often it takes a single example to animate a crowd, and show people a better, more conscious way to live. It doesn't take a lecture, a big fundraiser, or a political movement to demonstrate simply by living clean how your behavior is positively influencing the beauty of Highland Beach. Most people are not intentional polluters, most have a good heart, and want to do right for the planet. We subscribe the Lockean philosophy that invests in the inherent decency of almost everyone on the planet. When you bring that trash bag to the waterfront, choose smart materials, and show people the way through how you live, people will change without having to say a word.
For More About Our Unique Highland Beach Life - see below...
<a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/blog/highland-beach-boating-safety-5-tips-to-stay-safe-on-the-water/">Highland Beach Boating Safety</a> | <a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/blog/5-tasteful-highland-beach-waterfront-patio-accessories-beach-house-decor/">5 Tasteful Highland Beach Patio Accessories</a>2022-10-13T05:00:00-07:002022-10-02T06:42:56-07:00Anthony Carriuolotag:highlandbeachrealestate.com,2012-09-20:30692Highland Beach News Roundup | News, Notes, and Key Stories Around Highland Beach<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/hb-summer-roundup.jpg" width="839" height="300" alt="highland beach summer roundup" />
AA small, upscale town with an indomitable spirit, Highland Beach has proven to be one of the more fascinating pockets of civilization in South Florida. Beginning with its velveteen yet defiant separation over drinking water, Highland Beach residents now enjoy some of the finest waterfront<a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/buy/"> homes and </a>condos in the country. With only a few thousand residents, 2 businesses, and no traffic lights, this otherwise quiet beachfront town has had plenty of action in the political and social spheres, making big moves to improve the already superb quality of life for its residents. With Summer winding down, we took a look at the news stories that compelled us, and that we felt you should know.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/fire-dept-hb.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="highland beach fire chief" />
Highland Beach Gets Its Fire Chief
Highland Beach has fought for its fire department, citing improved costs and reduced response time among its prime purposes to finalize its collaboration with Delray Beach FD. While the residents are pleased and respect the years of partnership with Delray Beach, it was time for the city to begin a new era of self-determination. Through this effort, Highland Beach proudly named Glenn Joseph, a veteran of over three decades in fire service as its chief. Mr. Joseph served as Fire Chief of Boynton Beach, Deputy Fire Chief of Boca Raton, and as a lead consultant in the past year to the city of Highland Beach. He is a preeminently qualified and locally experienced leader.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/a1a-paving.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="major a1a paving project" />
Major A1A Paving Project To Be Previewed For Community
On August 31, the city unveiled its plans to repave the stretch of A1A along Highland Beach, an incremental project that will begin in Spring 2024 and finalize in Summer 2025. With an $8.8M budget, the project will resurface the asphalt, but also expand bike lanes to 5 feet and paint them for demarcation. In addition, drainage improvements will be made to the swales, and lane expansions will slightly encroach on the west side of A1A. While traffic will be reduced in places to a single lane, marked by each phase of construction planned out in spacial increments, there is no expected impediment to foot and bike traffic.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/fire-dept-win.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="fire department highland beach permit win" />
Fire Department Project Scores Crucial Licensing Win
With few residential fires to concern themselves with, the prime purpose of the new Highland Beach FD is to reduce response times and localize a crew of paramedics on call. The Palm Beach County Emergency Medical Services Advisory Council had reconsidered the city's application for a COPCN (Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity), which is necessary to establish EMS services. With so much red tape and bureaucratic layering to forge beyond, it's a small miracle they've made it this far, but if there's one thing Highland Beach has learned from its inception - it's that good reason and sound policy should never be usurped by purposelessly powerful government agents.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/3-bonus.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="town employees receive bonus" />
Town Employees Receive 3% Bonus
To combat what is now a yearlong (and beyond) inflationary crisis, Highland Beach has granted its employees a 3% bonus to push against the crushing cost increases across almost all necessities. A well-funded, and well-managed town, Highland Beach city workers will receive the bonus from its nearly $10M in cash reserved, which the city plans to replace with unspent funds from the current fiscal year - a move that benefits everyone without taxing a single additional dollar.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/tesla-hb.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="tesla highland beach police car" />
<a href="https://thecoastalstar.com/profiles/blogs/highland-beach-donated-tesla-ready-to-patrol-a1a" target="_blank">Highland Beach Wheels Out Donated Concept Police Cruiser</a>
After 18 months of research and retrofitting, the sleek new $90,000 Tesla Police Cruiser will begin its patrol over the streets of Highland Beach, which exclusively reside on A1A. The donated vehicle (not pictured) does not replace any vehicles, reduces maintenance costs and downtime, and provides the patrolmen with a shiny new, albeit incognito means to quietly and efficiently patrol the streets. Highland Beach isn't the first to feature a Tesla as part of its fleet, but it features the most significantly modified. It features a second battery to ensure police electronics are kept on while the Tesla shuts down, along with new radar, computing, and communications systems. There is nothing like it anywhere in Palm Beach County.
For More Highland Beach News & Notes - see below...
<a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/blog/cam-d-milani-park-postponed-til-2025/">Why Isn't Cam D. Milani Park Open?</a> | <a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/blog/highland-beach-fire-rescue-highland-beach-establishing-independent-ems-fire-rescue/">Highland Beach Gets Its Own Fire Dept.</a>2022-09-08T05:00:00-07:002022-09-07T07:22:21-07:00Anthony Carriuolotag:highlandbeachrealestate.com,2012-09-20:296805 Tasteful Highland Beach Waterfront Patio Accessories | Beach House Decor<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/5-tasteful-highland-beach-patio-accessories.png" width="839" height="300" alt="5 tasteful highland beach patio accessories" />
Highland Beach is an exclusively residential enclave seated on A1A directly between the cities of Delray Beach and Boca Raton. This high-income area is generally lined with contemporary beach clubs, condos, and some of the most impressive waterfront homes in Palm Beach County. Whether your backyard is a massive Intracoastal dockage and patio, or a small balcony at the edge of your beautiful <a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/buy/">Highland Beach condo</a>, here are 5 tasteful patio accessories that fit any design scheme and any home!<a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/buy/"></a>
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/chimenea.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="chimenea on outdoor patio" />
Chimenea
You'll thank us for the few days of the year it gets cold here in Highland Beach. The chimenea is a vertically designed, relatively low-footprint heating and even cooking device. Chimeneas can be made from metal, clay, or cast iron and are one of the favorite gathering points for house guests and families on a cooler day.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/hammock.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="golden lab on hammock outside" />
Freestanding Hammock
Whether tied between two palms or on its own structure, a hammock is an absolute must for any Highland Beach resident looking to sway with the palms and surrender their stresses to the embrace of nature. There's something about the sea breeze from the center of a hammock that hits... differently. Cost ranges wildly from simple cloth implements to complete frame and structure builds.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/accent-table.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="accent table" />
Accent Tables
Square, circle, whatever they may be, doesn't it feel like the best patios always have that tactfully placed table to rest your drink or Bluetooth speaker on? Accent tables tie your patio furniture set together in the same way a well-placed area rug ties the room together. They're the perfect little nightstand to complement your hammock, and an easy way to add further dynamism to your patio, even expanding how many partiers can enjoy it at once!
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/battery-cooler.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="battery powered cooler" />
<a href="https://www.homedepot.com/p/ACOPower-LiONCooler-52-Qt-Battery-Powered-Portable-Chest-Fridge-Freezer-Cooler-w-10-Hour-Run-Time-Recharge-Using-Solar-DC-AC-X50C/310781044" target="_blank">Battery Powered Cooler</a>
Following the YETI brand's massive intrusion into the "glamping" and powered-party space, these battery-powered coolers make your patio a mobile battle station, with the effective, yet not always too affordable, powered coolers keeping drinks cold for hours on end. The LED display will illuminate the temperature and battery life, much like any powered device, and give you a clear picture on how you'll enjoy cold drinks under blaring heat all day long.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/bowl-chair.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="bowl chair" />
Outdoor Bowl Chair
This is a strong candidate to replace those deep Adirondack chairs that seemingly make everything impossible. Want to lean forward and talk to someone? Good luck with that lumbar region. Wishing to reach for your drink? That'll take some effort. We're done with the black hole of a chair that draws you in and is nearly impossible to escape. Hyperbole and exaggeration aside, these bowl chairs are often made of outdoor safe materials and provide all the cushion, comfort, and space you'd want without the unwieldy frame of the classic Adirondack.
For More Outdoor Living And Beach Life - see below...
<a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/blog/5-reasons-to-move-to-highland-beach/">5 Reasons To Move To Highland Beach</a> | <a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/blog/highland-beach-boating-safety-5-tips-to-stay-safe-on-the-water/">Highland Beach Boating Safety</a>
2022-08-10T05:00:00-07:002022-08-08T06:34:33-07:00Anthony Carriuolotag:highlandbeachrealestate.com,2012-09-20:29401Highland Beach Boating Safety | 5 Tips To Stay Safe On The Water<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/highland-beach-boating-safety.jpg" width="839" height="300" alt="5 highland beach boating safety tips" />
This blog could and should be written for all of our respective Champagne & Parisi Real Estate websites. After all, as the preeminent <a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/communities/">waterfront and luxury Real Estate</a> firm in the Boca Raton area, we work with lots of boaters and beach club enthusiasts. Many of our Realtors are enthusiastic boaters themselves, and thus like all of our community, benefit directly from the safe practices of responsible boaters. These 5 boating safety tips are mostly obvious, but sadly often ignored. Read on before starting your engines, and be sure to take these 5 safety tips into account, so your day on the shimmering blue waters of our coastline is all fun and no trouble.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/kill-switch.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="kill switch" />
Utilize a Kill Switch
A "kill switch" device is worn around the wrist of the helmsman aboard your boat, and is now required by federal law. Unlike most automobiles, it's much easier to lose control of your boat, and possibly your boat itself. The "kill switch" is now federal law, and is a wise precaution to take in all boating circumstances. On solid ground, our roads are only affected by what may befall them. The topography never truly changes, unlike the way that the slightest chop could impact the stability of your grip on the helm. In the unlikely but not altogether uncommon event that you or your helmsman loses their grip, the kill switch will immediately cut power to the engine, preventing a host of potentially dangerous situations.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/first-aid-kit.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="first aid kit" />
Always Update and Maintain Your First Aid Kit
Much like a waterfront home, salinity, moisture, and sunlight can all lead to accelerated wear and tear on all exposed surfaces. Your first aid kit is no exception and should be updated, well-maintained, and prominently displayed for easy access. Be sure that you have the right supplies, enough of them, and prevent exposure moisture, saltwater, and sunlight. For common boating related injuries or medical incidents, learn more from your local boating instructors and through more experienced boaters, to ensure you have what you need to weather a troubling situation.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/gas-fumes.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="gas fumes in boat hull" />
Check Hatches and Enclosed Spaces For Harmful Gases
Be sure to have updated and well-maintained emergency detection systems, such as your smoke detectors and carbon monoxide monitors. When refueling your boat, be keen to notice any scent that may indicate a fuel leak, especially through invisible and sometimes undetectable gases. With boats that feature a cabin beneath the main deck, this is especially important, as more enclosed spaces can lead to more gas-related dangers.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/boat-capacity.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="boat capacity" />
Know Your Boat's Capacity
Your boat is only so big, and can only hold so much. We've seen too many comedic, but dangerous videos of pontoon boats lumbering through the chop and shedding supplies, and sometimes even a rider or two. Even though a pontoon boat, in particular, may resemble a living room on the water, there are serious concerns to overstuffing your party barge - namely the lack of solid ground and exposure to the elements. Sarcasm aside, everything has its breaking point, and to imply that your boat can host hundreds if not thousands of pounds more than your capacity is no smarter than stuffing 6 people in a Lamborghini and driving through the rain.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/squall.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="squall over ocean" />
Be Prepared For Hurricanes
We don't expect anyone to be purposefully foolish enough to take their boat out in the midst of a hurricane. However, this is less about letting out your inner pirate captain, and more about how you prepare your boat for the roiling seas that earmark a hurricane. Boat security is a consistent concern, whether it be to prevent theft or protect your favorite vehicle from the rigors of nature. You should always moor your boat and prepare your dockage as if a hurricane is looming, as the best practices in an emergency lead to better day-to-day safety. When the storms come, if inland warehousing isn't available, be sure to know everything you need about how to moor your boat, the integrity of the dock you're moored to, and clear anything from the deck of the boat that may be carried by wind. A single loose bolt could lead to massive wreckage - so be sure to do your homework!
For more waterfront living in Highland Beach - see below...
<a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/blog/5-things-we-love-about-highland-beach/" target="_blank">5 Reasons We Love Highland Beach</a> | <a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/blog/highland-beach-condos-5-of-the-best-high-rises-on-highland-beach/">The Best Highland Beach Condo Amenities</a>
2022-07-06T05:00:00-07:002022-06-20T12:14:32-07:00Anthony Carriuolotag:highlandbeachrealestate.com,2012-09-20:293355 Things We Love About Highland Beach | Highland Beach Real Estate<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/5-reasons-we-love-highland-beach.jpg" width="839" height="300" alt="5 reasons we love highland beach" />
Highland Beach Real Estate is among the rarest and most sought after in the country. After all, this tiny town of just under 4,000 and barely a mile across is a very different kind of "small town." Despite its size, population, and uniqueness, Highland Beach is still very much a vestige of the South Palm Beach feel. Situated between Delray Beach and Boca Raton, this is hardly a place with a "small town" vibe. Learn 5 reasons we love spending time in Highland Beach, and why you should never leave <a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/buy/">Highland Beach homes for sale</a> off your search!
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/naturally-fortified.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="naturally-fortified" />
1. Naturally Fortified
Highland Beach derives its name from its natural elevation. Sitting at over 20 ft. above sea level in most places, this topographical advantage should influence insurance rates and vastly improve the natural resistances of a beachfront home. While Hurricanes Andrew and Wilma were the most damaging to South Florida in prior years, and much of it was done by wind, the storm surge from later storms and the omnipotent threat of such is part of what makes insuring waterfront real estate so expensive. This natural elevation should not preclude you from taking the necessary steps to prepare for storms, but it's a heck of a start!<br />
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/all-party.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="all party no business" />
2. All Party, No Business
Though we can't condone our entire community resembling Highland Beach, the fact that there are only two businesses in Highland Beach makes it almost purely residential. This dramatically reduces the potential for traffic and parking issues and allows for a small pocket of civilization to exist without the encroachment of work activity. Though this is indeed exclusionary, we're not upset that this small beachside town chose its occupants and where to draw the line.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/center-of-it-all.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="at the center of it all" />
3. A Small Town At The Center Of It All
In our introduction, we mentioned that this "small town" is far from a small-town vibe. Despite the lack of businesses, the 1.1-mile stretch along A1A that is Highland Beach puts it directly between Boca Raton to the South and Delray Beach. A short jump to either Linton Rd. to the north or Palmetto Park Rd. to the south brings Highland Beach residents within minutes of I-95, while the vibrant Atlantic Avenue of Delray Beach and <a href="https://www.miznerpark.com/en.html" target="_blank">Mizner Park of Boca Raton</a> is less than 10 minutes in either direction.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/self-determinism.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="self determinism" />
4. Rugged Self-Determinism
Highland Beach was founded through a velveteen divorce with Boca Raton in 1946 following a dispute over drinking water services. If you've ever wondered why half of the city hall is a water treatment plant, there is your answer. The people of Highland Beach have always gone their way, as recently evidenced by the city's decision to <a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/blog/highland-beach-fire-rescue-highland-beach-establishing-independent-ems-fire-rescue/">create its fire department</a>. Though the city is still adjoined to its neighbors, the city's leadership is constantly looking for innovative ways to save tax dollars and improve the quality of life for its residents, something rarely found in politics, to say the least.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/the-views.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="sunset and sunrise views from highland beach" />
5. The Views!
Remember that extra height we mentioned? The sunrise over the Atlantic is picturesque from any viewpoint on the east coast of Florida. From Miami to Jupiter, to Neptune Beach, there isn't a bad place to soak up a beautiful Florida sunrise. However, many point to Naples or Sarasota among others as the place to be when viewing the gorgeous swirls of purples, oranges, reds, and blues. The fact that Highland Beach is built upon this natural support, and so many residences are <a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/toscana/">high-rise condominiums</a> makes Highland Beach one of the best places in Southeast Florida to enjoy the sunrise and sunset that so often eludes our plane of vision from the ground.
For more Highland Beach History and Local Details - see below...
<a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/blog/cam-d-milani-park-postponed-til-2025/">Why is Cam D. Milani Park Not Open?</a> | <a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/blog/highland-beach-condos-5-of-the-best-high-rises-on-highland-beach/">5 Top Highland Beach Condos</a>
2022-06-04T05:00:00-07:002022-06-02T06:51:53-07:00Anthony Carriuolotag:highlandbeachrealestate.com,2012-09-20:22049The Top 5 Restaurants Around Highland Beach<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/74.jpg" width="839" height="300" alt="waterfront dining in highland beach" />
Highland Beach is known for its uncanny elevation, high-end beachfront manses, and its history with water purification. Highland Beach's entire existence is owed to a famous 1949 vote to incorporate the town following a dispute over water purification. This velveteen divorce led to a city with just under 4,000 year-round residents, and a total landmass of 0.5 square miles. Due to its uniqueness and its tiny footprint, Highland Beach is often forgotten as the individual it is when wedged between more prominent Delray and Boynton Beach. Highland Beach only has two incorporated businesses, meaning there are no stores, restaurants, or even doctors who call Highland Beach their permanent practice. Regardless, there's plenty to eat, drink, and practice on either side of this individual yet immediately accessible beachside town. Here are 5 restaurants within moments of Highland Beach that we recommend!
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/latitudes.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="latitudes restaurant highland beach" />
<a href="https://www.latitudesdelray.com/about-1" target="_blank">Latitudes Restaurant</a>
Sporting a crisp 4.5-star rating with over 1,200 reviews from a notoriously stringent crowd, Latitudes Restaurant is the only restaurant with a Highland Beach address, as it is found within one of the only businesses in Highland Beach - the Delray Sands Resort. Latitudes offer the classics you'd expect from an oceanfront restaurant, including surf and turf, a bright and delicious Sunday brunch, and live entertainment.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/harvest-restaurant-delray.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="harvest seasonal wine bar and grill" />
<a href="https://harvestseasonal.com/" target="_blank">Harvest Seasonal Grill & Wine Bar - Delray Beach</a>
Harvest Seasonal Grill & Wine Bar is part of a broader movement to merge gourmet cuisine with sensible sustainability initiatives. After all, not only is in-season produce higher quality, but it also is less resource-intensive and often relies less (if not at all) on artificial means of growth. Harvest proudly updates its menu each quarter, infusing locally grown produce from its partnership with over 75 farmers. "Know your farmer, know your food" is a philosophy that drives Harvest and part of the reason we're so glad to feature them.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/le-sorelle-focaccia.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="le sorelle focaccia bread boca raton" />
<a href="https://www.lesorellerestaurant.com/menu" target="_blank">Le Sorelle Restaurant - Boca Raton</a>
Le Sorelle in Boca Raton is one of two locations spanning either side of Highland Beach, with their Boca location far more accessible to Highland Beach residents. Their commitment to fine authentic Italian cuisine begins with their story as immigrants from Italy's Southern Adriatic Coast and is shown through the care they place in every brick oven focaccia, top-quality steak, and succulent pasta dish.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/novello-restaurant.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="novello restaurant boca raton" />
<a href="https://novelloboca.com/" target="_blank">Novello Restaurant & Bar</a>
Novello is one of the finest outdoor dining locales in the area, with their travertine-lined, well-shaded outdoor area one of the only places to escape the sweltering summer heat and still eat outside. Their private room accommodates up to 60, and its location just off Federal Highway makes it a quick trip to fine dining. Their menu is a tour of Italy including inspiration from land and sea, paired with their wide selection of primarily Italian wines.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/sandbar-delray.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="sandbar delray beach" />
The Sandbar Delray Beach
The Sandbar rests just south of Atlantic Avenue in Delray Beach, just a couple of miles north of Highland Beach's northern access. The Sandbar is an all outdoor bar and grill featuring delicious appetizers, burgers, sandwiches, wraps, and specialty cocktails. Though it caters to a younger audience, patrons of all ages have found a place at the Sandbar, whether that be under their covered bar catching the game with the amicable and lovely bar staff or seated under the sun during one of the lively weekends featuring a live DJ and bar specials.
For more of the Highland Beach Lifestyle - see below...
<a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/blog/5-reasons-to-move-to-highland-beach/">5 Reasons to Live In Highland Beach </a>| <a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/blog/highland-beach-condos-5-of-the-best-high-rises-on-highland-beach/">Highland Beach Condo Amenities</a>2022-05-06T05:00:00-07:002022-11-03T07:57:33-07:00Anthony Carriuolotag:highlandbeachrealestate.com,2012-09-20:27205Highland Beach Home Water Quality | 6 Steps You Can Take To Protect Our Water Supply<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/6-ways-to-preserve-clean-water.jpg" width="839" height="300" alt="6 ways to preserve clean drinking water" />
Highland Beach was incorporated in 1949 as a result of an impasse related to drinking water. While the divorce from Boca Raton proper was velveteen, the unwillingness of neighboring municipalities to support the improvement of Highland Beach's water supply is why this tiny seaside town has its own name in the first place. In fact, <a href="https://highlandbeach.us/" target="_blank">Highland Beach City Hall</a> is home to the town's own water treatment plant. Highland Beach's identity is inexotricable from water - both saline and potable. There is much we can do as individual citizens to protect the quality of our water supply. With that in mind, read on for these 6 helpful steps to keep our drinking water safe!
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/pet-cleanup.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="pet cleanup" />
Clean Up After Your Pets
One thing you'll notice as you read through our six tips is that some overlap with common sense, or in this case, reasonable human decency. Without getting too deep in the details, a failure to clean up dog droppings or other animal waste leads to remaining nutrients and chemicals to drain into our water supply and put a greater strain on our water purification systems.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/phosphorus-fertilizer.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="phosphorus fertilizer" />
Avoid Phosphorus-Based Fertilizers
If only more people knew the deleterious impact that lawn-worship has on our water supply. Fertilizers are often loaded with synthetic ingredients, chemical additives, and nutrients that are dangerous to our local environment. Chief among these is phosphorus, which in large quantities led to some of the worst <a href="https://oceanservice.noaa.gov/hazards/hab/florida-2018.html#:~:text=What%20is%20happening%3F,the%20east%20coast%20of%20Florida." target="_blank">algal blooms in recent history</a>. At the worst, the impact of phosphorus based fertilizers have led to mass fish kills, the death of invasive species, massive setbacks to our tourism and fishing industries, and respiratory issues for locals living miles inland.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/battery-disposal.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="battery disposal" />
Dispose of Hazardous Materials Properly
Pet waste could factor in here, but by "hazardous," we mean batteries, motor oil, medication, and more. The commonplace practice of flushing medication down the toilet is one of the worst decisions one can make when seeking to dispose of old or unneeded drugs. The same can be said for batteries and motor oil, both of which can do immense damage in tiny quantities. Be sure to collect batteries in a bucket and keep an eye out for the many planned collective drug-dumps organized by city health and law enforcement officials.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/local-flora.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="local landscaping" />
Landscape with Native Plants
An immutable truth behind all living things is the constant need to maintain homeostasis - or the physiological state of equilibrium. For plant life, it's clear that the billions of years have been wisely utilized, hence why we see cacti in deserts, fir trees in alpine woods, and the robust-yet-thorny flowers that grace many of our homes. Simply put, the more localized a species is, the less intensive its care will be - meaning less water, fertilizer, and resource use. All this yields a more naturally splendid space that is as good on the eyes as it is to our water.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/green-clean.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="green cleaning materials" />
Use Green Cleaning Products When Possible
This is another example of a multiplicitous improvement to your home and lifestyle. Green cleaning products don't have to be overpriced. As a matter of fact, almost anything can be cleaned with white distilled vinegar - a natural and incredibly cheap alternative to the dozens of cleaners that in some cases are no better or worse than the next. We understand that not all messes can be cleaned by nature, but the heavy duty chemicals that are associated with the vast majority of household cleaners means that every time a counter is wiped and a towel is disposed, there's a greater chance for these chemicals to seep into our water supply.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/wash-car.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="car wash" />
Wash Your Car On The Lawn
This is a simple question of fluid dynamics. Nobody is telling you not to wash your car, but if you can't take it to the pros, parking the car on the lawn allows for more natural absorption of the soap-laced water washing off your car. If washed on the driveway, more water and the subsequent chemicals from the cleaning products and runoff from the vehicle itself will reach our water supply.
For more Highland Beach History and Unique Facts - see below...
<a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/blog/cam-d-milani-park-postponed-til-2025/">Why is Cam D. Milani Park Not Open?</a> | <a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/blog/5-interesting-facts-about-highland-beach/" target="_blank">10 Fast Facts About Highland Beach</a>2022-04-20T05:00:00-07:002022-04-19T11:54:01-07:00Anthony Carriuolotag:highlandbeachrealestate.com,2012-09-20:24521Highland Beach Condo Amenities | 5 Of The Best High Rises On Highland Beach<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/highland-beach-condo-blog.jpg" width="839" height="300" alt="Highland Beach condos" />
Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, and what may be a paradise for some could be a hellscape for others. Living standards are subjective past a certain threshold, but what we look for in a Highland Beach Condo is unique to everyone. For our part, we've reached out to our team and learned where some of the finest condos in Highland Beach could be found. These 5 Highland Beach condos offer some of the best resort-style amenities and luxuries galore.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/Toscana-amenities.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="toscana amenities" />
Toscana
Towering, talismanic, luxuriant. The Toscana Condos are first on our list for a reason. Though not in order by level of luxury, it didn't feel right to not put Toscana at the apex of our blog. Toscana is an enormous multi-building Highland Beach condominium with a wide driveway through to security. Thanks to its overall presence, from the pavers it's built on to the visibility from the A1A, Toscana is a beautiful place to choose for your new Highland Beach home. One visit to their <a href="http://www.toscanahighlandbeach.com/amenities.html" target="_blank">amenities and services</a> page. Perhaps most significant is the private beach club across the street - where the saltwater breeze and beautiful sunshine are a few steps from your front door.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/Coronado%20Highland%20Beach.jpg" width="838" height="300" alt="Coronado Highland Amenities" />
Coronado
Another of 3 with a private beach club, Coronado is a bit more affordable than Toscana but doesn't shy away from offering stunning views from its 15 story balconies, overlooking the private beach access just an elevator ride away. Coronado offers a party/club room, sauna, tennis courts, a business center, and even boat dock access. Coronado's amenities offer the best of beach living, with plenty of indoor amenities to complement your waterfront lifestyle.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/Villa-Nova-amenities.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="Villa Nova amenities" />
Villa Nova
One of four "Villas," these separately owned by similarly named developments are far more unique than their names might indicate. Of all the 'Villas,' Villa Nova is the most boutique, newly renovated, and carries a phenomenal reputation for service and management. In particular, the support, maintenance, and politeness of the staff undergird the many amenities that are sustained and improved upon by the superb management. Put your trust in the team at Villa Nova to continuously modernize and uplift this beautiful condo, right there on the beachfront.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/boca-highland.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="Boca Highland amenities" />
Boca Highland
The third of three that provides a private beach club to their residents, Boca Highland is a massive slice of Highland Beach, featuring several independent condos beyond its gates. As a whole, Boca Highland has private beach club management but is not directly responsible for the amenities found in each separate complex. For their part, Boca Highland provides immaculate beach access and upholds a standard of quality that no building, however independent, can slip under. Boca Highland is also one of the only communities in Highland Beach with a combination of single-family homes, townhouses, and condos. A majority of the few single-family homes in Highland Beach are massive, 8 figure beachfront mansions. For an alternative, seek out the Boca Highland Beach Club.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/Highland-Beach-Club-amenities.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="Highland Beach club amenities" />
Highland Beach Club
Highland Beach Club can be seen directly from the southbound side of A1A. This 11 story condo sits behind an inviting fountainhead and paved roadway, marked by a deep green front facade, Highland Beach Club provides everything one would want to enjoy an elevated quality of life inside and outdoors. For those seeking to enjoy a healthy, active life, Highland Beach Club is one of the most resplendent in the area. Highland Beach Club offers a sauna, steam room, gym, jacuzzi, billiards room, and even an exercise area for dogs.
For more Highland Beach News & Lifestyle - see below...
<a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/blog/cam-d-milani-park-postponed-til-2025/">Why Hasn't Cam D. Milani Opened?</a> | <a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/blog/highland-beach-fire-rescue-highland-beach-establishing-independent-ems-fire-rescue/">Highland Beach Gets Its Fire Rescue</a>
2022-03-11T06:00:00-07:002022-03-09T09:20:12-07:00Anthony Carriuolotag:highlandbeachrealestate.com,2012-09-20:27204Highland Beach Fire Rescue | Highland Beach Establishing Independent EMS & Fire Rescue<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/Highland-Beach-fire-rescue.jpg" width="839" height="300" alt="Highland Beach Fire Department" />
The City of Highland Beach began with a benign, yet impactful dispute related to water treatment. Recognizing their own need for internalized water treatment services and Boca Raton's then unwillingness to provide the aid needed, Highland Beach incorporated in 1949. In the years that followed, Highland Beach remained a pseudo-independent township, acting on its own accord while relying on the municipal services of its neighboring towns.
EFFICIENCY THROUGH CONSOLIDATION
While water treatment, city administration, and the police department have remained staples of Highland Beach's city services, the Fire Department and Emergency Medical teams that dispatch to Highland Beach are sourced from Delray Beach to the north. In spring 2021, the City of Delray Beach refused to renegotiate the terms of the service contract. In conjunction with key findings from third party feasibility analysis, the City of Highland Beach chose to act.<br /><br />
WHY HIGHLAND BEACH CHOSE TO ACT
Much like its 1949 incorporation, Highland Beach once again was compelled to take matters into its own hands. Highland Beach approached the table to work through their differences with the Delray Beach Fire Department. Despite good faith efforts, the writing was on the wall. Highland Beach is one of the wealthiest per-capita cities in the United States, with an average age of nearly 68. The city has the financial health, and aged citizenry that puts it squarely in position for a new Fire Department and Emergency Medical Services.
WHAT THE ANALYSIS SHOWED
The third-party feasibility analysis showed both financial and medical motivations to found its own Fire and Emergency Services. The study showed a number of key data points and inferences that spurred the action from the Highland Beach administration, including:<br />
Significant increases to costs were associated with pensions and personnel costs.
Highland Beach pays $7,000 per service call.
Highland Beach does not receive a backup ambulance from the Delray FD.
Highland Beach could save $2 million on EMS and Fire Dept. costs.
Response time could be significantly improved.
HIGHLAND BEACH MOVES FORWARD
On April 20th, 2021, the City of Highland Beach issued a 36-month termination notice to the City of Delray Beach. The city requested a vote for the authorization of up to $10 million dollars to prepare for the internalization of its fire station. The budget request includes the following key necessities to launch the Highland Beach Fire Department:
Expand the existing fire station to accommodate new equipment, personnel, and vehicles.
Outfit the team with the necessary personal equipment.
Purchase an additional fire truck and ambulance.
Hire a Fire Chief, firefighters, EMS, and support staff.
Legal, licensing, and consulting.
HIGHLAND BEACH: FINANCIALLY (AND PHYSICALLY) HEALTHY
Unlike our shameless federal spending and ever-increasing national debt, the City of Highland Beach has a balanced budget and financial means to expand its municipal services without an increase in taxes to its citizens. Funds for the new Highland Beach Fire Department is planned for as part of its FY 2021-22 proposed budget of $20,569,777. The Town Commission has kept its budget tidy and balance sheet clean while it aims to further improve the city services offered to its mostly wealthy (and elderly) residents.
Citizens and administrators of this tiny seaside hovel are thrilled to gain another significant arm in its municipal cadre, furthering its severance from co-dependence on its neighbors - an effort that began with the very first vote in 1949.
To learn more about bright, beautiful Highland Beach - see below...
<a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/blog/cam-d-milani-park-postponed-til-2025/">Why Isn't Cam D. Milani Park Open?</a> | <a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/blog/5-interesting-facts-about-highland-beach/">10 Fast Facts About Highland Beach</a>
2022-02-16T06:00:00-07:002023-05-28T11:32:55-07:00Anthony Carriuolotag:highlandbeachrealestate.com,2012-09-20:25585Cam D. Milani Park Postponed 'Til 2025 | Highland Beach Real Estate<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/cam-d-milani-park-new.jpg" width="839" height="300" alt="the future site of cam d. milani park" />
For those who have passed through the short mile-long strip that is <a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/">Highland Beach</a>, a wide parcel of land (wide by Highland Beach standards) on the west side of A1A is likely to stand out to viewers. For a town exclusively on A1A and entirely comprised of condos, with a single business to boast, a public park is a noticeable addition to the Highland Beach real estate market. As we dug into this noticeably empty parcel, we learned there's a whole lot more to the past, present, and future of the proposed Cam D. Milani Park than meets the eye.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/who-was-cam-d-milani.jpg" width="750" height="180" alt="who was cam d milani" style="vertical-align: text-bottom;" />
Cam D. Milani was a prominent area developer for years. Currently succeeded by his wife Lucia and his son, also named Cam, they are at the fulcrum of what has been a three-decade legal battle happening right under our noses. In 1987, Lucia Milani sold the parcel of land designated for Cam D. Milani Park for $3.9 million with the caveat that the land be used as a park and named in the senior Milani's honor. The 5.6-acre land has a portion on the inland and beachside of A1A, with space for 120 cars to park. Over 30 years later, the Milani family remains frustrated with the city's continued push to delay and block development.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/why-cam-d-milani-park-not-opened.jpg" width="750" height="180" alt="why has cam d milani park not opened?" style="vertical-align: text-bottom;" />
In two words: legal challenges. Nearby residents, especially those representing the Boca Highland Beach Club, purport that the park would create major parking and safety issues. A lawsuit filed by the city delayed construction for well over a decade, with current circumstances stemming from a 2010 ruling that has delayed construction for over 10 years. Most recently in 2019, county commissioners <a href="https://thecoastalstar.com/profiles/blogs/highland-beach-county-to-postpone-milani-park-until-2025" target="_blank" style="font-size: 16px;">voted 4-3 on the potential postponement of development for another five years</a>.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/arguments%20about%20cam%20d%20milani%20park.jpg" width="750" height="180" alt="arguments for and against cam d milani park" style="vertical-align: text-bottom;" />
Despite decades of legal jargon, lawsuits, back and forth, and ongoing delays, the arguments for and against the commissioning and completion of Cam D. Milani Park are quite simple and unrelated to any other land-lobbying disagreements that may embroil the Milani Family and Highland Beach. Here are the arguments, albeit simple and brief, that each side brings to the table.
Against:
Vocal proponents of the argument against the park have argued that adding a public park to Highland Beach (there currently is none) would lead to greater concerns for pollution, crime, noise, and trespassing, mainly with the adjacent Boca Highland Club in focus. Parks & Rec officials have also argued that our parks are operating at a functional capability and are not currently facing spacing, staffing, or funding issues. Simply put: concerns aside, the neighboring parks have been more than enough to supply the ever-growing quantity of tourists with access and necessary facilities. Lucia Milani contends that the delays are the result of a few homeowners with NIMBY (not in my backyard) syndrome and a desire to maintain a seemingly unfair exclusivity about Highland Beach from the general public. Much of Highland Beach is only accessible via private residential access points and <a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/buy/">waterfront condos</a>.
For:
Simply put, the argument begins with honoring the legal (and moral) commitment as a city to the Milani family, who have waited over 30 years for the city to fulfill its contractual obligation. Lucia Milani regrets never putting a deadline on development in her initial 1987 deal, but outside of legal requirements, it is within the purview of common decency to avert further delays and honor an agreement made nearly 40 years ago. Beyond that simple truth, the nearby residents' concerns with Cam D. Milani Park somehow becoming grounds festering with crime fail to recognize the many public parks and access points that flank both sides of Highland Beach. Within a mile or two alone, one could visit South Beach Park, Atlantic Dunes Park, Red Reef Park, Gumbo Limbo Nature Center, and Spanish River Park. Each of these is no more than a few miles to the north or south of Highland Beach. The entire surrounding area is renowned for its high-class waterfront living and demonstrably low crime rate. Somehow despite adjacent parks no more than a few hundred yards in either direction, the residents of Boca Highland seem to believe that Cam D. Milani Park will be the one exception to the otherwise serene parks and well-behaved visitor populace.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/cam-d-milani-park-conclusion-argument.jpg" width="750" height="180" alt="cam-d-milani-park-conclusion-argument" style="vertical-align: text-bottom;" />
While nearby residents may have salient concerns about a 120-spot parking lot and beach access is a 1-mile town with only 4,000 year-round residents, it is patently absurd to believe that a comparably small park no more than a mile from the next access point would be the linchpin to an explosion of noise, crime, and pollution. For a town as classy and upscale as Highland Beach, these concerns are especially unfounded, as its centrality between Boca and Delray makes it unlikely for out-of-town visitors to select Milani Park above others as their beach access. Ultimately, while some of these concerns may be legitimate, further evaluation is needed. Anything less than the city honoring its decades-long commitment to the Milani family is a legal snafu and dishonorable at the very least. Once the park opens, city officials can learn what they must do, but before any cost/benefit can be weighed, Cam D. Milani Park must be given the green light and the red ribbon.
Visit our <a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/blog/category/highland-beach-events/">Highland Beach News & Events page</a> to learn more about the latest developments in our town.2022-01-12T06:00:00-07:002024-03-20T10:57:03-07:00Anthony Carriuolotag:highlandbeachrealestate.com,2012-09-20:2479510 Fast Facts About Highland Beach | Highland Beach Real Estate<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/10%20fast%20facts%20about%20Highland%20Beach.jpg" width="839" height="300" alt="10 fast facts about Highland Beach" />
Here we go! Enjoy these 10 quick facts about Highland Beach. For those keeping score at home, that's one fact for every 430 Highland Beach residents. Enjoy this gorgeous strand of South Florida majesty, and learn why this little town is just a little different!
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/drinking_water.jpg" width="837" height="201" alt="Highland Beach founding" />
Highland Beach Was Formed Over A Drinking Water Dispute
This beautiful strand of beachfront was officially incorporated in 1949 as part of a dispute over drinking water. The 21 votes cast to peacefully secede from the confines of Boca Raton were related to the intrusion of saltwater on a necessary supply, which neighboring towns refused to lend aid for.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/no_lights.jpg" width="837" height="201" alt="no traffic lights on Highland Beach" />
There Are No Traffic Lights On Highland Beach
It's true! The closest thing to a traffic light is a stop sign or a cyclist, who lines the expanded sidewalks and bike lanes of A1A.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/top_3_retire.jpg" width="837" height="201" alt="top 3 places to retire in America" />
Named In The Top 3 Places To Retire In America
Niche.com, an authoritative website providing the latest in schools, housing, and community information for prospective residents. As part of their list of the best places to <a href="https://www.niche.com/places-to-live/highland-beach-palm-beach-fl/" target="_blank">retire in America</a>, they offer a superbly detailed article profiling the desirability of Highland Beach. For what it's worth, the top two locations were also located in South Florida.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/2_businesses.jpg" width="837" height="201" alt="highland beach 2 businesses" />
Highland Beach Has Only 2 Businesses
Aside from drinking water, Highland Beach was founded to ensure a safe harbor from the corporatization of suburban America, and over the years it has held firm as a sanctuary for private residents looking for just a little less noise around their South Florida home. The businesses are The Delray Sands Resort, and John P O'Grady Realty.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/austrian.jpg" width="837" height="201" alt="Highland Beach Austrians" />
Highland Beach has the 10th Highest Percentage of Austrians in The U.S.
We're not sure why, but at 4%, Highland Beach is tied with Mondovi Wisconsin for the 10th largest population per capita of Austrian-Americans.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/highland%20beach%20elevation%20.jpg" width="837" height="201" alt="Highland Beach elevation" />
Named For Its Elevation
This is a bit more obvious than others, but Highland Beach homes (mainly the mansions that line the beachside of A1A) have steep sloping driveways that aren't seen across much of Palm Beach County's waterfront homes. These driveways show the 20 to the 25-foot slope that in times of natural disasters, are a major benefit of <a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/communities/">owning a Highland Beach home.</a>
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/tiny_footprint.jpg" width="837" height="201" alt="highland beach square mileage" />
A Tiny Footprint
Highland Beach is only 1.29 square miles. Over 58% of the incorporated space is water.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/valued_at_1.82.jpg" width="837" height="201" alt="highland beach value" />
Highland Beach is valued at $1.82 Billion
In 1966, Highland Beach had one full-time employee and a total valuation of approximately $10 million. In the time since the municipal staff has grown to 37, and the town value to over $1.82 billion. After 2021 we've experience in real estate, and we're sure this number should be updated! Condos such as <a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/toscana/">Toscana</a>, The<a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/boca-highland-beach-club-and-marina/"> Boca Highland Beach Club</a>, and <a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/3200-south-ocean/">3200 South Ocean</a> certainly raise the value substantially!
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/median_age.jpg" width="837" height="201" alt="highland beach median age" />
The Median age is 62
We're not surprised by this statistic, considering the Niche.com ranking, and the general age of the population. Highland Beach represents a similarly accessible, yet still exclusive locale. Without inland space, nearby schools, and cheaper housing, it's no wonder this gorgeous beachfront town plays privy to a... dated audience.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/median_income.jpg" width="837" height="201" alt="Highland Beach median income" />
The Median Household Income Is $94,662
Also not surprisingly, the median income of Highland Beach reflects the age and prestige of its residents. One drive from end to end will say it all without saying a word2021-12-21T06:00:00-07:002024-03-20T12:29:45-07:00Anthony Carriuolotag:highlandbeachrealestate.com,2012-09-20:24706Featured Listing, Private Highland Beach | Highland Beach Real Estate<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/Highland%20Beach%20Maja.jpg" width="839" height="300" alt="private highland beach condo " />
A rare opportunity awaits on the white sands and shimmering shores of beautiful Highland Beach, FL! Situated directly between Delray Beach to the north and Boca Raton to the south, this almost exclusively waterfront community spans just over a mile of majestic South Florida coastline. Despite its minute population and small geographical footprint, Highland Beach looms large with its superb waterfront condos and the small but unique local populace. Incorporated in 1949, Highland Beach’s “secession” from Boca was velveteen, claiming its autonomy over a simple dispute on salinity treatments to their freshwater supply. Learn more about this gorgeous beach town, and the luxury condo that awaits you!
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/Maja_-_Highland.jpg" width="750" height="180" alt="exclusive highland beach condo " style="margin-top: 8px; margin-bottom: 8px;" />
Stand Up To The Storms
Highland Beach can take its name literally, with the average property residing more than 20 feet above sea level. For a state that can likely claim a landfill as its highest peak, this bolstering of nearly two stories ensures that the strong, durable construction of your Highland Beach condo isn’t the only thing standing up to the threat of a hurricane. Enjoy the views from your elevated perspective, and when the storm surge rises, you’ll be that much better off.
Nothing But Your Neighbors
While Boca and Delray might be sprawling suburban centers thriving amid the continued flight to Florida, Highland Beach includes only two incorporated businesses. The result is the total maximization of the small parcel the city calls home. Highland Beach plays privy to parks, recreation, beautiful beach gazebos, and is flanked by parks along the stretch from Delray to Boca Raton. With such limited commercial activity on Highland Beach, yet instant access to neighboring towns, this place is truly a slice of luxuriant paradise.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/Maja_-_Highland2.jpg" width="750" height="180" alt="highland beach condo interior" />
Views for Miles
The pristine interior of this incredible condo is only matched by the views outside. The wrap-around balcony affords you multiple views of the sunrise and sunset while adding an open space to entertain guests and customize your outdoor presence. Perhaps most spectacular is the dining area, replete with three massive windows facing north and east – allowing for the golden hues of the morning sun to naturally illuminate the space.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/Maja_-_Highland3.jpg" width="750" height="180" alt="interior and exterior of highland beach condo" />
Your Private Time
Highland Beach certainly has its fair share of fun, friendly, and interesting neighbors, but it’s often the desire for a little sliver of privacy that drives some to hang their hats on Highland Beach. Niche.com recently named Highland Beach as one of the top 3 places to retire in America – but don’t get it twisted. Highland Beach is much more than a place to unwind and live your golden years, yet for those seeking to get away, this boutique 26 condo building offers a private beach, private entrance, and lush greenery lining the walkways and areas surrounding the building. We don’t suggest becoming antisocial, but this Highland Beach condo is as much your private study as it could be your holiday vacation destination!
A Remarkable, Unique Find In A Red Hot Market
This 3/3 at 2,600 square feet is an incredible value at its price point and a rare find! Highland Beach scarcely offers condos of this prestige to the market, but we’re blessed to carry this listing. Every room is a unique opportunity to apply your flair, design, and personal touch to a brilliantly designed floor plan. Eclectic but refined, shapely but open-ended, this Highland Beach masterpiece is waiting for someone special to take the keys and run with it. The tactfully designed split floor plan allows for a second, discreet entryway into the additional master suite. This is the quintessential guest accommodation – complete with an enormous walk-in closet and full master bath. Perfect for retirees, or even young families. With TWO pets allowed and the aforementioned spacious balcony, among other luxury accouterments, this secret find might not last long when friends and family learn of your new Highland Beach abode!
For more details on Highland Beach, and this remarkably rare & in demand, find – call or email <a href="http://www.majaloi.com/">Maja Loi</a>, Realtor with Champagne & Parisi
Maja Loi
Cell: 786-286-8877
Alt. Cell: 561-221-2968
Maja@MajaLoi.com
<a shape="rect" href="http://www.majaloi.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=http://www.majaloi.com/&source=gmail&ust=1636775442008000&usg=AOvVaw3xZeUyYdHsVT5A-DU1wiPt">www.MajaLoi.com</a> 2021-11-11T20:45:00-07:002022-11-03T08:03:09-07:00Anthony Carriuolotag:highlandbeachrealestate.com,2012-09-20:243595 Reasons To Move To Highland Beach | Highland Beach Real Estate<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/5_Reasons_to_Move_ToHighland_Beach.jpg" width="839" height="300" alt="5 reasons to move to Highland Beach " />
Highland Beach is its own sliver of subtropical magic, wedged between the elegant Boca Raton and the newly bustling, trendy Delray Beach. Learn from our Champagne & Parisi Realtor Team why Highland Beach is one of the most desirable communities to consider in the area. Here are 5 reasons we've heard from clients past & present about why to move to Highland Beach!
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/hang_hat.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="close up of feet in beach hammock" />
Hang Your Hat On Highland Beach
Highland Beach, much like its neighbors Boca Raton to the south and Delray Beach to the north, is teeming with retirees. Niche.com rated Highland Beach in its <a href="https://www.niche.com/places-to-live/search/best-places-to-retire/" target="_blank">top 3 best places to retire in America.</a> Despite its reputation for housing an aged population, this isn't to detract from the majestic tropical vibrancy, beautiful foliage, and more than available white sand beaches to spend a moment or the rest of your life upon.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/middle_ground.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="woman on pier overlooking Highalnd Beach" />
The Perfect Middle Ground
There are a few terrestrial plays-on-words we expect to employ when discussing this aptly titled 1.1-mile strand of beach. Much like our next reason, this one also considers its placement on the map. Boca Raton is elegance embodied - with some of the very best retail shopping, A+ schools, incredible restaurants and fine dining, and more. Delray to the north is younger, brimming with growth and vigor, with a youthful energy that is duly complemented by its interpretation of upscale flair. At just over a mile long with the little inland territory, entering and leaving Highland Beach can be done on foot in a few minutes - if you're Roger Bannister.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/elevation.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="Highland Beach mansion on the water" style="margin-top: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px;" />
Highland Beach... Literally
Highland Beach was incorporated in 1949 and is named for its unusual seat atop 20 to 25 feet of elevation. Building a home near the coastline of anywhere in Florida comes with a considerably escalated risk of hurricane damage, however, an elevation of nearly two stories is a substantial advantage. With our ability to adapt our homes with innovations like in-ground automatic propane generators and triple-layer impact windows, Highland Beach allows its residents both natural and manmade advantages against natural disasters.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/beach_art.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="shells and rocks on beach assembled to resemble nautilus" style="margin-top: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px;" />
Art Thrives On Highland Beach
Highland Beach Real Estate is primarily known for its attraction to retirees, businesspeople, and financial professionals. However, despite a paltry population of under four-thousand, Highland Beach has a <a href="https://www.neighborhoodscout.com/fl/highland-beach" target="_blank">greater concentration of artists, designers, and media professionals than 90% of American communities.</a> This ensures that no matter the affluence and glamor, Highland Beach will always have a bohemian, free-flowing atmosphere like the beaches it looms largely over.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/summer_beach.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="unoccupied beach in Florida" style="margin-top: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px;" />
Stay Behind For Summer
Due to its concentration of retirees and the upper class, Highland Beach swells dramatically in population depending on the season. With its one-lane stretch along A1A governing most of its transit, and long driveways with steep drops hiding unwary commuters, staying behind or living full time in Highland Beach might be just what you didn't know you were missing. Highland Beach is by no means a ghost town during midsummer, and it's still flanked by Boca Raton and Delray Beach, but like its neighbors to the north and south, mirrors the seasonal migratory pattern of a large portion of its residents.
For More Highland Beach Magic - see below...
<a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/blog/a-brief-history-of-highland-beach-highland-beach-real-estate/">A Brief History of Highland Beach</a>2021-11-04T05:00:00-07:002022-02-13T08:07:21-07:00Anthony Carriuolotag:highlandbeachrealestate.com,2012-09-20:21710A Brief History Of Highland Beach | Highland Beach Real Estate<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/highland%20beach%20history.jpg" width="839" height="300" alt="a brief history of highland beach" />
<a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/">Highland Beach</a> - A town of less than 4,000 headquartered on a tiny shimmering strand of coastline that stretches barely more than a mile. This beautiful and unique town is almost entirely residential, featuring sprawling beachside mansions dotted by a handful of municipal structures. With Delray Beach directly to the north and Boca Raton due south, some may be wondering why a separate town exists at all. Read on to learn more - from our first historical discoveries to the state of the town today! Here is a brief history of Highland Beach.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/calusa.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="calusa indian territory" style="margin-top: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px;" />
PRE-SETTLEMENT HISTORY
Before the arrival of Spanish settlers, and well before the flight of Seminole Indians southward due to the Seminole Wars, this area was dominated by the Calusa Indians. The Calusa tribe were the first humans to be encountered and recorded and likely developed from centuries of archaic Everglades peoples. In their native tongue, Calusa translates to "fierce people," a reputation they backed often.
Also known as "shell Indians" much of their crafts utilized the small and larger shells found throughout the region. In fact, the term "conched" on the head may have stemmed from the mace-like weapon Calusa Indians would wield - a stick with a vine-tethered shell of a lightning whelk. This jagged conch-like mollusk leaves behind a shell that is perfect for this purpose. A Calusa dart was responsible for the death of famed Spanish explorer Ponce de Leon. Calusa Indians were much taller and stronger than many northern indigenous tribes, lending to their fearsome reputation. Over time, the Calusa's were either killed off, enslaved, or died from a string of deadly epidemics that ravaged the area through the 1600s and 1700s. Today, there is no representation of the descendants of the Calusa tribe. Very few people at all can claim ancestry, as the tribe was systematically destroyed through war and disease. It has been postulated that the Tequesta or Jeaga tribes could have also inhabited the area, but unlikely as the Tequesta were far closer to modern-day Miami, while the Jaega were slightly northward.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/pirate.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="pirate ship on sunset horizon" style="margin-top: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px;" />
A PIRATE'S LEGACY
Florida's vast peninsular coastline jutting out into the Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico provided as much of an advantage to pirates as it did to more legitimate seafaring interests. The Tampa Bay area may be best known for its legacy in pirate history, but the state's entire eastern coastline has been a haven for pirates. On the Atlantic side, Spanish galleons were frequently traversing the Caribbean, allowing for Highland Beach, and South Florida as a whole to provide the perfect launchpad for clandestine raids. The area between the Treasure Coast and Highland Beach allowed raiding as far north as the Carolina and Virginia colonies, and deep into the Caribbean.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/barefoot_mailman.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="barefoot mailman statue" style="margin-top: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px;" />
THE BAREFOOT MAILMEN (1885-1892)
The Barefoot Mailmen were the first U.S. mail carriers in the Highland Beach area. While the term "Barefoot Mailman" wasn't coined until the 1940s, the original 68-mile route from Palm Beach to Miami was known early as the "barefoot route." With no official road connecting the counties, the Barefoot Mailmen had to carry mail by foot along the beaches and various connecting boat channels. 28 miles of the trip took place by the water, with the remainder along the firm sand near the coastline. These mailmen stopped at houses of refuge, such as the Orange Grove House of Refuge in present-day Delray Beach and Fort Lauderdale. The route was replaced when a rock road was built in 1892, but the legacy of these uniquely Floridian mail carriers lives on. An annual Boy Scout hike, covering much of this route takes place in tribute, from Pompano Beach to South Beach.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/railroad.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="flagler railroad in the Florida Keys" style="margin-top: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px;" />
THE EARLY DAYS OF CIVILIZATION
In 1896 famed railroad developer Henry Flagler completed the East Coast Railway. Homes popped up where wild swamps once existed. This coincided with the famed Yamato community at the turn of the 20th century, where a group of Japanese immigrants attempted to experiment with subtropical crops, becoming early cultivars of the land - growing pineapple and other vegetables. While numbers were incredibly sparse for much of the early 20th century, these intrepid travelers would comprise some of the earliest incorporated towns in the Boca Raton, Highland Beach, and Delray Beach areas. Things would pick up exponentially following the ending of World War II, a time when mechanized warfare rapidly accelerated technological development and a population boom ensued.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/vintage_fam.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="vintage photo of family walking on beach" style="margin-top: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px;" />
HIGHLAND BEACH GETS ITS NAME
It was in the year 1949 that Highland Beach would become what it is today. The initial question of "why not just stay part of Boca?" is answered here. While a bit more peaceful than other noted "secessions" in American history, the autonomy of Highland Beach was voted on by 21 free voters for two primary reasons. Firstly, the freshwater supply that the community depended on was suffering from a saltwater intrusion. Neighboring communities were unwilling to provide support by supplying water from their wells. Secondly, citizens had heard rumors of a trailer camp being planned for the area, which they did not approve of. Highland Beach gets its name from the unusual rise of 20 to 25 feet above sea level here. The topography allows for the <a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/bel-lido-isle/">waterfront mansions</a> we see today and the notably steep driveways that slope up to these homes. The community to this day is still almost completely residential, with the Delray Sands resort being the only well-known business with a Highland Beach address.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/mansion.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="highland beach waterfront mansion" style="margin-top: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px;" />
HIGHLAND BEACH TODAY
Highland Beach is a largely upper-class community sitting almost exclusively on A1A, with barely any inland presence and almost no local businesses. The <a href="https://datausa.io/profile/geo/highland-beach-fl/" target="_blank">median household income as of 2019 is more than $115,000</a> - far surpassing the national average of $68,703. Highland Beach has expanded on its cause celebre, building its water treatment facility and expanding its municipal staff from 1 full-time employee in 1966 to 37 full-time and 12 part-time employees. The town works hard to provide for itself but does not have an acrimonious relationship with its neighbors. The town is headlined by magnificent upscale condo communities such as <a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/toscana/">Toscana</a>, <a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/boca-highland-beach-club-and-marina/">Boca Highland Beach Club</a>, <a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/coronado/">Coronado</a>, and many more.
Our A1A office is just a few steps south of Highland Beach! Contact or visit us today, and be sure to enjoy the scenic views that are this beautiful strand of historic coastline.2021-05-28T18:14:00-07:002024-03-20T11:29:06-07:00Anthony Carriuolotag:highlandbeachrealestate.com,2012-09-20:8594Top Five Luxury Condos in Highland Beach, FL<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/top-5-luxury-condos-highland-beach.jpg" width="839" height="300" alt="top 5 luxury condos in highland beach" />
<a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/" title="Highland Beach Real Estate">Highland Beach</a> is an upscale beachside town located directly off scenic State Road A1A between Boca Raton and Delray Beach on the southern coast of Palm Beach County, FL. Hailed as one of the most affluent towns in the U.S., this small community encompasses a narrow slice of land nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and the Intracoastal Waterway. Renowned for its nearly three-mile stretch of unspoiled beachfront and its peaceful, small-town feel, Highland Beach is one of the most desirable locations for people seeking to retire or relocate to the Gold Coast.
Highland Beach boasts some of the most prestigious and expensive luxury real estate in all of South Florida, including a remarkable selection of ultra-luxurious <a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/condos/" title="Highland Beach Condos">waterfront condos</a> with unparalleled ocean & Intracoastal views. Though there is no shortage of desirable condos with amazing views in Highland Beach, there are some luxury condominiums that stand out from the rest. For those who will settle for nothing but the absolute finest in luxury condo living, we suggest you check out our exclusive list of the Top Five Luxury Condos in Highland Beach.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/Toscana.jpg" width="838" height="300" alt="toscana front gate" />
1) <a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/toscana/" title="Toscana Highland Beach, FL">Toscana</a>
Toscana is an upscale waterfront community comprised of three high-rise condominium towers that are situated between the Atlantic Ocean and the Intracoastal Waterway in Highland Beach, FL. Also known as Toscana Towers, Toscana is not only one of the most luxurious waterfront condo communities in Highland Beach, but also the newest. Toscana offers spacious two- to four-bedroom condos which are currently priced from $749,900 all the way up to $4,600,000 for double penthouse units. With a wide selection of lavish condominium residences, unobstructed ocean & Intracoastal views, and a host of five-star amenities, Toscana offers resort-style condo living at its absolute finest.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/highlands-place-entry.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="highlands place entryway" />
2) <a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/highlands-place/" title="Highlands Place Highland Beach, FL">Highlands Place</a>
Highlands Place is an exclusive beachfront condo community located directly on the sand in Highland Beach, FL. This boutique condominium building is home to just 45 ultra-luxurious oceanfront residences. The luxury condos at Highlands Place boast large, impressive floor plans and expansive wrap around balconies which offer breathtaking panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean, Intracoastal Waterway, and the natural beauty of the surrounding tropical landscape. Some of the luxury amenities at Highlands Place include private beach access, heated swimming pool & spa, fully-equipped fitness area, putting green, indoor racquetball court, & a club room with fantastic ocean views. Currently, there are just two luxury condos for sale in Highlands Place, priced at $949,000 for a three bedroom/three bath unit & $4,995,000 for a full floor penthouse residence.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/Parker_Highland_.jpg" width="838" height="300" alt="parker highland front entrance" />
3) <a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/parker-highland/" title="Parker Highland Condos">Parker Highland</a>
Parker Highland is an ultra-exclusive oceanfront condominium with just 26 private units located in the heart of Highland Beach, FL. Luxury condos at Parker Highland range from 2,600 to 4,660 square feet in size and feature spacious open floor plans with a host of high-end features and breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and Intracoastal Waterway from private balconies. This intimate community offers residents several fine amenities, some of which include private beach access, an oceanfront swimming pool & sun deck, fitness center, full-time doorman, & 24-hour security. Parker Highland condos for sale are currently priced from $1,189,000 up to $1,995,000. If you are seeking beachfront luxury condo living with the ultimate peace and privacy, look no further than Parker Highland!
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/Townhouses-of-Highland-Beach.jpg" width="837" height="300" alt="townhouses of highland beach" />
4) <a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/townhouses-of-highland-beach/" title="Townhouses of Highland Beach">Townhouses of Highland Beach</a>
Townhouses of Highland Beach is another ultra-luxurious condominium located on the tranquil beachfront in Highland Beach, FL. This unique community consists of two contemporary oceanfront buildings which offer spacious two-story townhome-style condominium residences. These luxurious condos feature stunning interiors with custom designer finishes, large private balconies, and floor-to-ceiling hurricane impact windows offering sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean from nearly every room. Residents enjoy resort-style living with a host of luxury amenities including a manned gated entrance, secure underground parking, heated oceanfront swimming pool and spa, state-of-the-art fitness center, and private beach access. Condos for sale at Townhouses of Highland Beach are currently priced between $749,000 and $1,550,000.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/Trafalgar_.jpg" width="838" height="300" alt="trafalgar front enrance" />
5) <a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/trafalgar/" title="Trafalgar Highland Beach, FL">Trafalgar</a>
Trafalgar is an exclusive oceanfront community that offers just 57 luxurious condominiums and a select number of waterfront townhomes in Highland Beach, FL. Originally constructed in the 1980s, the oceanfront condos at Trafalgar have been recently renovated to include beautiful designer finishes and modern features. Trafalgar condos offer between 1,745 and 2,252 square feet of living space and private terraces with astounding ocean and Intracoastal views. This full-service building offers 24-hour security, underground parking, and on-site management, as well as several luxury amenities including an oceanfront swimming pool and spa, oceanfront terrace, fully-equipped fitness center, and his and hers saunas. There are currently just two luxury condos for sale at Trafalgar Highland Beach priced at $979,900 and $1,525,000.
Within the town of Highland Beach, you will find that there are many fantastic waterfront condo buildings and communities that each offer a unique atmosphere, great amenities, and beautiful ocean and Intracoastal views. However, if you are looking for the absolute finest care-free life of luxury in one of the most beautiful places in all of South Florida, be sure to add these Top Five Luxury Condos in Highland Beach to the very top of your list! 2019-05-03T12:37:00-07:002024-03-05T11:50:34-07:00Stephanie Kukichtag:highlandbeachrealestate.com,2012-09-20:7178Highland Beach Home Tour Etiquette Guide | HighlandBeachRealEstate.com<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/Home_Tour_Etiquette_Guide.png" width="476" height="238" alt="Home Tour Etiquette Guide" title="Home Tour Etiquette Guide" />
When it comes to Highland Beach house hunting, sooner or later you’re bound to find yourself confronted by a question of proper home touring etiquette. After all, you’re an invited guest in somebody else’s Highland Beach home for sale—someone who you don’t know, who isn’t around, and whose house rules are a complete mystery to you.
As you’d expect, the normal rules of courtesy still apply—except when they don’t. For instance, if you are visiting a friend’s home, it wouldn’t be very polite to go about opening up the bedroom closet doors—when touring prospective homes for your next <a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/" title="Highland Beach Real Estate" target="_blank">HIghland Beach real estate</a> purchase, unless you are instructed otherwise, that’s a behavior that gets a green light. You might be treated to a “peek and shriek” if the seller has resorted to some last-minute decluttering via haphazard closest-stuffing, but house touring etiquette says that closet inspection is acceptable and even expected. Closet space, after all, is a valuable part of the home’s layout and an important consideration for many when <a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/buy/" title="Buying a Home" target="_blank">buying a home</a>.
Less clear are any number of gray areas. When your house hunting leads you through an extensive number of home tours throughout various <a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/communities/" title="Communities in Highland Beach, FL" target="_blank">Highland Beach communities</a>, you’re bound to run into some of them. Guidance from the website Houselogic names the most common house tour protocol questions as follows:
• Is it okay to bring in my coffee?
• May I use the bathroom?
• How about a quick selfie next to that nice [fill in the blank].
• Is it okay if I plop down on the sofa?
Fortunately, you don’t need to dust off a copy of Miss Manners or send off a query to Dear Abby, because the answer to these and other modern house touring conundrums can be summed up in two simple words, “JUST ASK!” Whatever the answer might be, you will have fulfilled your duty as a most conscientious house hunter, ensuring a pleasant home buying experience for yourself, as well as a pleasant experience for the home seller. Finding and buying a home may seem like a daunting task, but remembering this simple tip of home touring etiquette will keep you in the good graces of all parties involved. Happy house hunting!
2018-07-06T09:59:00-07:002018-07-09T09:52:57-07:00Stephanie Kukichtag:highlandbeachrealestate.com,2012-09-20:1634New Condo Listing in Carlton HouseThere's a new Champagne & Parisi Real Estate listing in Highland Beach that is sure to take your breath away. View Listing by Clicking here. Wake up to sparkling water views from every room in this oceanfront Carlton House condo.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/Carlton-House-Condo.jpg" width="1531" height="1023" alt="Carlton House Highland Beach" />
Along with views of the ocean, this condo is updated with wood floors, custom built-in cabinetry in the living room, a designer bar in the recently renovated kitchen, and baths with bamboo glass doors. The condo can be sold fully furnished, so it is move-in ready! It has two bedrooms, two bathrooms, and is 1,350 square feet. It also has rice paper wall coverings and Murano lighting. You can't beat this <a href="https://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/carlton-house/">condo for sale in Carlton House Highland Beach</a>!
Carlton House, built in 1964, is located just south of Linton Boulevard along A1A. You'll be near all of the wonderful Delray Beach attractions, and just minutes away from the beautiful beaches. This condo is perfect as a vacation home or a place to live year round. Carlton House boasts resort-style amenities such as a heated swimming pool, 24-hour security, covered parking, a fitness center and common rooms for entertaining.
Highland Beach is a small seaside town between Delray Beach and Boca Raton. Many residents live here seasonally, but some prefer to live in Florida's paradise all year long. If you're looking for maintenance free living on the beach, you'll want to consider purchasing this Carlton House Condo.
For more information on this unit or similar units, please contact Charlene Singer of Champagne & Parisi Real Estate at 561-543-2400.2016-12-13T10:29:00-07:002023-05-13T06:21:37-07:00Caesar Parisitag:highlandbeachrealestate.com,2012-09-20:733Highland Beach Condo with Fantastic ViewsDine Alfresco in your Condo on Highland Beach
No doubt about it, the world is in a mad rush. Or is it? We all have the ability to slow things down. The choice is ours. Of course, this journey to a balanced lifestyle begins with your thoughts and intentions.
The second pathway to that perfect existence, we believe is where and how you live.
We all have heard the same comments. You live where? You are so lucky! You live in paradise and so we do. We need to cherish simple fact ... we are so fortunate.
With this in mind, we have compiled a list of ways to "slowdown" and enjoy life in Highland Beach, Florida:
Partake in outdoor activities available to us year round
• These include long leisurely walks along the three miles of Highland Beach.<br />• Swim in the warm arms of the Atlantic Ocean, don't like the current, try this pool.<br />• Grab a good book and head toward here.<br />• Try a game of tennis anyone
There is always dining alfresco on your Condo balcony on Highland Beach. This condo, we have listed for sale in <a href="http://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/communities/">Highland Beach offers both intracoastal and ocean views</a>. It is located at 4748 South Ocean Boulevard in <a href="http://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/dalton-place/">Highland Beach in the Dalton Place</a> on the eighth floor of this sixteen-story building.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/405/image/Highland-Beach-Waterfront.jpg" width="600" height="394" alt="Highland Beach Waterfront Condo" />
Interior Features of this unit include:
• 2100 square feet of luxurious open plan living area<br />• 275 square feet on the balconies, corner unit <br />• Three bedrooms<br />• Three full bathrooms<br />• Carpet and tile flooring<br />• Washer and dryer in unit <br />• Walk- in closets<br />• All impact windows and sliding glass door
Step outside your front entrance (double doors) and the building offers a pool, patio area, barbeque deck and a security system (patrolled).
So slow down, grab a cool drink and start enjoying our lifestyle in Highland Beach. The journey begins here at <a href="http://www.highlandbeachrealestate.com/property-search/detail/33/RX-10106075/4748-s-ocean-boulevard-highland-beach-fl-33487/">4748 S. Ocean Boulevard, 8B Highland Beach, FL 33487</a>2015-04-10T11:41:00-07:002018-07-06T09:42:11-07:00Caesar Parisi