• Top Family-Friendly Activities in Clermont, FL,Mary And Stan Bell

    Top Family-Friendly Activities in Clermont, FL

    Top Family-Friendly Activities in Clermont, FL Clermont, FL, is known for its beautiful scenery, rolling hills, and close-knit communities. Located just 25 miles west of Orlando, Clermont offers an ideal blend of suburban living with access to the excitement of Central Florida’s attractions. For families moving to Central Florida, Clermont is a top choice for its family-friendly environment and abundance of activities. Whether you’re visiting or planning to settle down in the area, there’s no shortage of fun and engaging activities for kids and adults alike. At Team Bell, we specialize in helping families find their perfect homes in Clermont and the surrounding areas. Here are the top family-friendly activities that make Clermont a great place for your next adventure! Lake Louisa State Park: Explore Nature and Wildlife One of Clermont’s most popular destinations for outdoor lovers is Lake Louisa State Park. Spanning over 4,500 acres, this beautiful park offers a wide range of activities perfect for families looking to enjoy Florida’s natural beauty. You can hike or bike along the numerous trails, go horseback riding, or spend a day by the lake swimming, kayaking, or fishing. For families looking for a fun weekend getaway, the park also offers camping options, including cabins and tent sites. With its vast, open spaces and the chance to spot local wildlife, Lake Louisa State Park is a must-visit for anyone looking to enjoy family time in the great outdoors. Clermont Waterfront Park: Fun by the Lake Located along the shores of Lake Minneola, Clermont Waterfront Park is a favorite spot for families. The park features a sandy beach, a splash pad for kids, a playground, and a scenic walking trail that follows the lake. It’s the perfect place for a family picnic or a relaxing day by the water. Waterfront Park is also home to several annual events and activities, including triathlons, outdoor concerts, and community festivals. For families who enjoy water sports, there’s a boat ramp available for launching kayaks, paddleboards, or small boats. The park’s peaceful setting and fun amenities make it a wonderful place for families to unwind and enjoy time together. Presidents Hall of Fame: A Historical Journey For families interested in history, the Presidents Hall of Fame offers a unique and educational experience. Located in downtown Clermont, this museum is home to a vast collection of memorabilia related to the U.S. presidents, including a full-scale replica of the White House. The museum features interactive exhibits, historical artifacts, and lifelike wax figures, making it an engaging and informative visit for kids and adults alike. The Presidents Hall of Fame is a great way to introduce children to American history while enjoying a fun and memorable family outing. The museum is a hidden gem in Clermont and is well worth the visit. Clermont Chain of Lakes: Boating and Water Sports The Clermont Chain of Lakes is a series of 11 interconnected lakes that offer a wide range of water-based activities for families. Whether you’re interested in boating, fishing, or paddleboarding, the Chain of Lakes provides endless opportunities for fun on the water. Many families enjoy spending weekends out on the lakes, where they can take in the scenic views, swim in the refreshing waters, or even try wakeboarding. For those without their own boats, there are several boat rental options available in the area, making it easy to enjoy a day on the water. If your family loves the outdoors and water sports, the Clermont Chain of Lakes is a great destination for making lasting memories. Sky Zone Trampoline Park: Indoor Fun for Kids If you’re looking for an exciting indoor activity for kids, Sky Zone Trampoline Park in Clermont is a fantastic option. This indoor trampoline park offers a variety of activities for children of all ages, from trampoline dodgeball to foam pits and basketball hoops for slam dunks. Sky Zone is an excellent way for kids to burn off energy while staying active in a safe and supervised environment. The park often hosts special events like glow-in-the-dark jumping sessions and themed parties, making it a fun destination for birthday celebrations or a weekend outing. Revolution Adventures: Outdoor Thrills for the Whole Family For families seeking a little more adventure, Revolution Adventures offers thrilling outdoor activities, including ATV rides, archery, and clay shooting. Located just outside of Clermont, this outdoor recreation center is ideal for older kids and parents looking to add excitement to their day. Revolution Adventures is known for its guided ATV tours, where families can ride through scenic trails and enjoy Florida’s wilderness. The facility also offers fishing trips, off-road driving experiences, and even jet ski rentals. It’s the perfect place for families who enjoy outdoor thrills and unique experiences. Lakeridge Winery: Family-Friendly Events While Lakeridge Winery is primarily known for its wine production, it’s also a family-friendly destination that hosts a variety of events throughout the year. From outdoor concerts and craft fairs to grape-stomping festivals, Lakeridge Winery offers fun for the whole family in a beautiful vineyard setting. Parents can enjoy wine tastings and live music while the kids participate in arts and crafts or enjoy the open outdoor spaces. The winery’s picturesque grounds and regular events make it a great spot for families to relax and have fun together. Conclusion Clermont, FL, is an ideal destination for families, offering a wide variety of activities that cater to all interests and age groups. From outdoor adventures at Lake Louisa State Park and the Clermont Chain of Lakes to indoor fun at Sky Zone Trampoline Park, there’s no shortage of ways to keep the whole family entertained. If you’re considering moving to Central Florida, Clermont’s family-friendly environment and abundance of recreational opportunities make it a perfect place to call home. At Team Bell, we’re here to help you find the right home for your family in this vibrant community. For more information on living in Clermont and to explore available properties, visit our website at TeamBellFL.com or check out our YouTube Channel for community tours and real estate tips.  

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  • How to Choose the Right Realtor in Clermont, FL,Mary and Stan Bell

    How to Choose the Right Realtor in Clermont, FL

    How to Choose the Right Realtor in Clermont, FL Choosing the right realtor can make all the difference when buying or selling a home, especially in a thriving real estate market like Clermont, FL. Whether you're **moving to Central Florida** or looking to sell your current home, having a knowledgeable and experienced realtor on your side is essential to ensure a smooth and successful transaction. But with so many realtors in the area, how do you choose the one that’s right for you? At Team Bell, we specialize in helping families find their dream homes in Clermont and the surrounding areas. Here’s what you need to know about selecting the perfect realtor for your real estate needs. Look for Local Expertise One of the most important qualities to look for in a realtor is local expertise. Clermont, FL has its own unique real estate market, and a realtor with deep knowledge of the area will have a better understanding of property values, market trends, and neighborhood dynamics. They’ll know which communities are best for families, which areas are ideal for retirees, and which properties offer the best investment potential. For those considering moving to Central Florida, a realtor with local expertise can offer valuable insights into everything from schools and amenities to commute times and recreational opportunities. At Team Bell, we pride ourselves on being local experts who can guide you through the intricacies of the Clermont market. Check Experience and Credentials Experience is another key factor when choosing a realtor. While every realtor has to start somewhere, an experienced realtor will have the skills and knowledge needed to navigate the complexities of buying or selling a home. Look for a realtor with a proven track record of successful transactions in Clermont and the surrounding areas. In addition to experience, you’ll want to verify the realtor’s credentials. Make sure they are licensed and in good standing with the appropriate state and local real estate boards. Many realtors also have additional certifications or specializations, such as Accredited Buyer’s Representative (ABR) or Certified Residential Specialist (CRS), which demonstrate their commitment to professional development and excellence in the industry. Read Reviews and Testimonials One of the best ways to gauge a realtor’s effectiveness is by reading reviews and testimonials from past clients. A realtor’s online presence, including their Google My Business page, website, and social media profiles, can provide insights into their reputation and client satisfaction. When reviewing testimonials, look for comments about communication, responsiveness, negotiation skills, and the overall buying or selling experience. A realtor who consistently receives positive feedback is likely someone you can trust to handle your real estate transaction. At Team Bell, we’re proud of the relationships we’ve built with our clients, and we encourage you to check out our reviews on our website and our YouTube Channel. Consider Communication and Availability Communication is critical during the real estate process, and you want a realtor who is responsive and available when you need them. Whether you prefer phone calls, emails, or text messages, make sure your realtor communicates in a way that works for you. You’ll also want a realtor who is proactive and keeps you updated on new listings, changes in the market, or updates on your transaction. If you’re selling your home, you’ll appreciate a realtor who provides regular feedback from showings and updates on marketing efforts. A good realtor will work around your schedule and make themselves available for showings, meetings, or calls. At Team Bell, we prioritize communication with our clients and make sure we’re always accessible when they need us. Ask About Marketing Strategies If you’re selling a home in Clermont, it’s essential to choose a realtor with a strong marketing strategy. Gone are the days when simply listing a property on the MLS was enough to attract buyers. Today, realtors must use a combination of online marketing, social media, professional photography, and virtual tours to showcase properties effectively. Ask potential realtors how they plan to market your home. Do they use professional photography and video tours? Will they feature your property on their website and social media platforms? What strategies do they use to attract potential buyers? At Team Bell, we use a comprehensive marketing approach that includes professional photos by David Allen Productions, video walkthroughs, and promotion on our website and YouTube channel. We understand how important it is to make a great first impression and ensure your home gets the visibility it deserves. Find a Realtor Who Understands Your Needs Every buyer or seller has unique needs, and the right realtor will take the time to understand what you’re looking for. Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer, an investor, or someone looking to downsize, your realtor should tailor their services to meet your specific goals. During your initial consultation, pay attention to whether the realtor listens to your needs and asks the right questions. Are they interested in learning about your preferences, budget, and timeline? Do they offer helpful advice based on your situation? At Team Bell, we’re committed to providing personalized service to every client. We take the time to get to know you and your goals, so we can find the perfect home or help you sell your property for the best possible price. Ask About Their Network A good realtor has a strong network of professionals, including mortgage brokers, inspectors, contractors, and attorneys, who can assist with your transaction. These connections can be invaluable when navigating the complexities of buying or selling a home, as they ensure that you have access to trusted experts who can help along the way. At Team Bell, we’ve built strong relationships with top professionals in the Clermont area, and we’re happy to recommend the best in the business to our clients. Conclusion Choosing the right realtor in Clermont, FL, can make a world of difference in your real estate journey. Whether you’re moving to Central Florida or selling a property, you want a realtor with local expertise, experience, and a commitment to personalized service. At Team Bell, we’re dedicated to helping our clients find their dream homes in Clermont and the surrounding areas. If you’re ready to start your home search or sell your property, visit our website at TeamBellFL.com or check out our YouTube Channel for more insights and tips on living in Central Florida.

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  • Understanding Property Taxes in Clermont, FL,Mary And Stan Bell

    Understanding Property Taxes in Clermont, FL

    Understanding Property Taxes in Clermont, FL If you're considering moving to Central Florida and buying a home in Clermont, understanding property taxes is a crucial part of the home-buying process. Property taxes can vary significantly depending on the location, property value, and local tax rates. For homebuyers in Clermont, FL, knowing how property taxes work can help you better plan your finances and avoid any surprises down the road. At Team Bell, we’ve helped many families navigate the Clermont real estate market, and we understand the importance of being informed about property taxes. Here’s what you need to know about property taxes in Clermont, FL, and how they may impact your home purchase. 1. How Property Taxes Are Calculated in Clermont Property taxes in Clermont, FL, are calculated based on the assessed value of your property. The Lake County Property Appraiser assesses the value of all properties annually, using factors such as market conditions, recent sales of similar homes, and improvements made to the property. The assessed value may differ from the actual market value of your home, and there are exemptions and caps in place to help homeowners manage their tax burden. Once the assessed value is determined, the millage rate is applied to calculate your property tax bill. The millage rate is expressed in mills, with one mill equaling $1 of tax per $1,000 of assessed property value. For example, if the millage rate is 15 and your home is assessed at $200,000, your property taxes would be calculated as follows: 200,000 (assessed value) ÷ 1,000 × 15 (millage rate) = $3,000 in property taxes annually. In Clermont, the millage rate includes contributions to local services such as public schools, fire departments, and other municipal services. 2. Homestead Exemption and Property Tax Caps Florida offers several exemptions to help lower the property tax burden for homeowners. The most common exemption is the Homestead Exemption, which can reduce the assessed value of your primary residence by up to $50,000. To qualify for the Homestead Exemption, the property must be your primary residence as of January 1 of the tax year, and you must file for the exemption with the Lake County Property Appraiser. The Homestead Exemption is particularly beneficial for long-term homeowners, as it also limits how much the assessed value of your home can increase each year. Under Florida’s Save Our Homes Cap, the annual increase in the assessed value of a homesteaded property is capped at either 3% or the percentage change in the Consumer Price Index (CPI), whichever is lower. This means that even if property values in your neighborhood rise rapidly, your assessed value—and, consequently, your property taxes—will increase at a more manageable rate. 3. Other Exemptions and Benefits In addition to the Homestead Exemption, there are other exemptions available to certain homeowners in Clermont: - Senior Citizen Exemption: Homeowners aged 65 and older who meet certain income requirements may be eligible for an additional exemption on their property taxes. - Veterans Exemption: Florida offers tax exemptions for veterans with service-related disabilities, as well as for surviving spouses of veterans and first responders. - Disability Exemption: Homeowners with permanent disabilities may qualify for property tax exemptions that reduce their overall tax burden. These exemptions can significantly lower your annual property taxes, making Clermont an even more attractive option for those moving to Central Florida. 4. What Property Taxes Pay For Property taxes in Clermont are used to fund essential public services, including: - Public Schools: A portion of property taxes goes toward funding local schools, including teacher salaries, school supplies, and maintenance of school buildings. - Public Safety: Taxes contribute to services such as fire departments, law enforcement, and emergency medical services. - Infrastructure and Maintenance: Property taxes help maintain public roads, parks, and other local infrastructure, ensuring that Clermont remains a well-maintained and attractive place to live. Knowing that your property taxes support the community can make the investment in your home feel even more rewarding. 5. What to Expect When Buying a New Construction Home If you’re buying a new construction home in Clermont, your property taxes may be lower initially, but it’s important to understand that they will increase once the home is fully assessed. During the first year, your property may be taxed based on the land value alone or a partial assessment of the new home. However, after the full assessment is complete, your taxes will reflect the total value of the home and the land. It’s a good idea to budget for the higher property taxes you’ll face in the second year of ownership. Your builder or realtor can provide an estimate of what to expect, but keep in mind that property taxes on new construction can vary depending on the final assessment. 6. How to Pay Property Taxes in Clermont Property tax bills in Clermont are issued by the Lake County Tax Collector in November each year, and they are due by March 31 of the following year. Homeowners who pay their property taxes early can take advantage of discounts: - 4% discount if paid in November - 3% discount if paid in December - 2% discount if paid in January - 1% discount if paid in February If you have a mortgage, your property taxes are often included in your monthly mortgage payment and held in an escrow account. Your lender will then pay the tax bill on your behalf when it is due. If you don’t have an escrow account, you’ll need to pay the tax bill directly to the Lake County Tax Collector by the due date to avoid penalties. Conclusion Understanding property taxes in Clermont, FL, is essential for anyone considering buying a home in this growing Central Florida community. With the Homestead Exemption, property tax caps, and other benefits, Clermont remains an affordable and attractive place to live for both families and retirees. Whether you're purchasing a new construction home or an existing property, being informed about property taxes can help you make a confident, informed decision. At Team Bell, we’re here to help you navigate the Clermont real estate market and provide you with all the information you need to make the best choices for your future. If you're considering Moving to Central Florida, visit our website at TeamBellFL.com or check out our YouTube Channel for more insights on living in Clermont and finding your perfect home.

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