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aerial of upcoming tributary regional park

While the rest of the nation braces for the upcoming cold weather season, fall is the perfect time in North Florida to enjoy a day with the family outdoors. From warmer weather to sunny skies, families across North Florida are energized to hop on a bike, go for a stroll, and just enjoy some fresh air. Now, Nassau County residents will soon have a new park perfect for enjoying those fall family days. Here’s a closer look at the new 40-acre Tributary Regional Park that’s opening this October, and why it will become a favored family destination.

family having a picnic outdoors

1. Fresh Air and Florida Sunshine

Tributary Regional Park will be full of ways families can come together to relax, unplug, and just enjoy the surrounding nature. The park’s ample pathways provide plenty of space for a stroll, run, or bike ride. Wide open green areas make it easy to bring a blanket and lunch for an afternoon picnic while birdwatching and observing the area’s wildlife. Future plans also include a canoe and kayak launch at Boggy Creek for waterfront excursions. No matter what adventures families choose, they will surely create lasting memories surrounded by nature’s beauty.

dad and son high-fiving on the baseball field

2. A Park with Perks for “Kids” of All Ages

Tributary Regional Park has been designed to be a social place, with plentiful gathering spots for team sports, community bonding, and more for all ages. Let your younger children run wild at the playground, where endless hours of fun with new friends lie ahead. A multipurpose recreational field and numerous baseball fields offer plentiful opportunities for residents of all ages to enjoy a game of baseball, kickball, soccer, frisbee, or any other fun activity. A dog park is also planned to open in the future, ensuring both dogs and their owners have a space to relax and socialize.

3. A Master-Planned Community Within Easy Reach

A special trail system designed by Avid Trails is also being planned to connect the park to Tributary, Nassau County’s newest master-planned community. While this innovative trail system is still under construction, these connections to Tributary neighborhoods will allow residents easy access to all their neighboring park provides. Tributary’s trail system also plans to connect Tributary to the Nassau River and the neighboring trailheads at Four Creeks State Forest. These connections will allow residents to discover all their natural neighbors provide, including kayaking, fishing, horseback riding, and more.

Tributary amenities center aerial

Explore More at Tributary

Along with a vibrant surrounding area, Tributary’s highly anticipated Lookout Amenity Center is now open, providing a stylish social hub. A resort-style pool, state-of-the-art Fitness Center, two pickleball courts, a children’s playground, a dog park, and a recreational play field offer plentiful opportunities for residents of all ages to get outside and be actively engaged in fun activities.

Spanning 1,550 picturesque acres, the master-planned community Tributary offers an impressive selection of family-friendly, single-family homes from the $300s built by Dream Finders Homes, Lennar, and Richmond American Homes. Additionally, Tributary announced the addition of Lakeview 55+, Nassau County’s newest active-adult neighborhood within the community.

Tributary’s Model Home Village features 6 designer-decorated models and is open daily for tours or can be viewed online. For more information, be sure to download the Digital Brochure, which will give you an overview of the community and surrounding area. You can also connect with Tributary on Facebook and Instagram to stay updated on the latest progress within the community. To learn more, visit TributaryLiving.com or contact the Tributary team at 904.299.6124.

Now more than ever, families are craving authenticity, searching for a low cost of living where they focus on connecting to their families and nature. While some may believe this would be hard to find in today’s market, Nassau County begs to differ. Not only is this area in Northeast Florida a nature-focused playground for all ages, but the area’s vibrant community provides low-cost living ideal for young families. From beaches to national parks and everything in between, families enjoy a high quality of entertainment in the surrounding area without the big price tag. Here are just a few of the ways residents of Nassau County’s newest master-planned community, Tributary, enjoy the surrounding area.

Priceless Connections with Nature

There’s no better feeling than getting lost in nature. Relaxing, unplugging, and just exploring the beauty of the surrounding area may not cost anything, but the memories made are still priceless. Nassau County is filled with numerous state parks that each offer adventures, history, and wilderness to explore, including Four Creeks State Forest, Fort Clinch State Park, and the Talbot Island Parks. Beach lovers love to stroll Amelia Island’s miles of sandy shores while hunting for seashells or splashing and surfing in the crystal-clear Atlantic waters.

family walking in nassau county park

Regional Parks Provide Perks

Along with all the natural wonders in the surrounding area, Tributary residents won’t have to travel far to be surrounded by nature. Walking trails designed by Avid Trails will soon wind throughout the community and provide direct access points to the Nassau River and neighboring trailheads of the community’s western border – Four Creeks State Forest. These connections will allow residents to discover all the activities their natural neighbors provide, including kayaking, fishing, horseback riding, and more. A new Tributary Regional Park is also under construction, with multi-purpose sports fields, a kayak launch, playgrounds, and trails for residents to explore within their own neighborhood.

No Private Tuition with Excellent Nassau County Public Schools

Families in Nassau County also won’t need to worry about private schooling for their children. The Nassau County School District is one of the best school districts in North Florida. With 20 accredited schools, this district has received A-ratings for the past several years, offering a plethora of excellent options to choose from to best fit your child’s educational needs. Tributary is not only located within this award-winning school district but is also the future site of a new school itself. Soon, parents won’t even have to leave their community when dropping off their children and will be able to play an active role in their education.

streetscape of Downtown Fernandina Beach

Destination Shopping Provides Plenty of Options

When it comes to shopping, Northeast Florida has an incredibly diverse shopping scene sure to satisfy any fashionista. Known as one of the largest shopping complexes in North Florida, River City Marketplace, is home to some of the nation’s leading retailers, offering over 80 storefronts to peruse your favorite brands. On the south side of Jacksonville, St. Johns Town Center is also a favored open-air mall, with over 167 retail complexes, entertainment, and plentiful other venues in the surrounding area. To shop local in a more intimate and authentic setting, Downtown Fernandina near Amelia Island is filled with eclectic art galleries, boutique shops, and gift stores to peruse.

Entertainment Without a Big Ticket Price

From fascinating museums to family-friendly events, Nassau County is filled with plenty of things to see and do without breaking the bank. Amelia Island hosts numerous events year-round that celebrate the island’s colorful past and present. From music festivals and art walks to the Isle of Eight Flags Shrimp Festival and the Amelia Island Dance Festival, the area is constantly filled with free events to enjoy. Local museums including the Museum of Science & History and the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens provide endless activities that will not only entertain every family member but also keep children learning while they are on school breaks.

tributary lookout amenity center aerial in nassau county

Family Fun Right in the Neighborhood

Along with a vibrant surrounding area, Tributary’s highly anticipated Lookout Amenity Center is now open, providing a stylish social hub for residents right in their own backyard. Overlooking a wide lake with a forested natural shoreline, the clubhouse provides a comfortable and rustic indoor lounge space as well as an outdoor bar with patio seating perfect for hosting a wide variety of events. A state-of-the-art Fitness Center, two pickleball courts, a children’s playground, and a recreational play field offer plentiful opportunities for residents of all ages to get outside and be actively engaged in fun activities. Even furry friends have a space to call their own at the Pawsome Dog Park, with separate play areas for large and small dogs, and obstacle course challenges for energetic pups. At the end of the day, a refreshing cool down in the resort-style pool allows residents to feel like they are on a tropical vacation, with an abundance of stylish chaise lounges and seating areas providing a welcoming leisurely atmosphere with plenty of shade.

tributary model home village in nassau county

Explore More at Tributary

Spanning 1,550 picturesque acres, the master-planned community Tributary offers an impressive selection of family-friendly, single-family homes from the $300s built by Dream Finders Homes, Lennar, and Richmond American Homes. Additionally, Tributary announced the addition of Lakeview 55+, Nassau County’s newest active-adult neighborhood within the community.

Tributary’s Model Home Village features 6 designer-decorated models and is open daily for tours or can be viewed online. For more information, be sure to download the Digital Brochure, which will give you an overview of the community and surrounding area. You can also connect with Tributary on Facebook and Instagram to stay updated on the latest progress within the community. To learn more, visit TributaryLiving.com or contact the Tributary team at 904.299.6124.

After the launch of pre-sales earlier this year, the buzz is electric for Nassau County’s newest active-adult neighborhood. Located just north of Jacksonville, Florida in the master-planned community of Tributary, future residents of Lakeview 55+ will work with one of the nation’s leading homebuilders, Lennar, to create the retirement home of their dreams. As interest continues to skyrocket for this new standard of active-adult living, construction is in full swing. Let’s take a closer look at how far they’ve come, and all the excitement planned for the future.

open concept lennar home at the active-adult neighborhood in tributary

Move-In Ready Homes Now Under Construction

With 232 homesites available, the Lakeview neighborhood plans to offer ten single-family floorplans ranging from 1,500 to more than 3,000 square feet of living space. Priced from the $300s, sales at Lakeview 55+ are underway, and 63 of these new homesites are currently under construction. Lennar is continuously releasing new homes from each floorplan collection and have been accepting at least 5-6 contracts weekly. Current buyers appreciate the opportunity to choose their lakefront or preserve homesites. Each stylish, low-maintenance home will also come with Lennar’s industry exclusive Everything’s Included® program, where the most desirable new home features, finishes, and upgrades are built into the base price of the home.

tributary amenity center rendering

Amenities Designed for Active-Adult Living

Situated alongside a large central lake, a collection of amenities will be reserved for the exclusive use of Lakeview’s active-adult residents. An 8,000-square-foot clubhouse will be the epicenter of activity, with a full-time lifestyle director to help plan community-wide events. Lakeview residents will also enjoy a fitness center, a resort-style pool with cabanas, tennis courts, pickleball courts, and a bocce ball lawn. While Lakeview’s amenity center is under construction, residents will have access to enjoy Tributary’s Lookout Amenity Center, featuring a resort-style pool, tot lot, fitness center, pickleball, and sports courts, and plentiful entertainment areas.

lennar exterior elevation at active-adult neighborhood in lakeview

Charle Home Model Opening This Fall

For those eager to take a glimpse at Lennar’s award-winning home designs, Lennar has officially broken ground on the Charle home model with expected completion this fall. Located within the Lakeview community, future residents can walk through the designer decorated Charle model and truly imagine their future home. Homebuyers, however, don’t have to wait until then to explore Lennar’s floorplan options. Both the Tivoli and Trevi floorplans are currently open daily for tours within Tributary’s Model Row and can also be toured virtually from the comforts of your home.

A Premier North Florida Location

Along with the excitement found within the gates of Lakeview 55+, residents will have plenty to explore within the surrounding area as well. Lakeview’s premier location adjacent to Four Creeks State Forest creates a natural neighbor full of birdwatching, hiking, fishing, and more to enjoy. Just 30 minutes south is the culturally diverse city of Jacksonville, offering plentiful dining, shopping, museums, and art exhibits to explore. Nassau County’s rapidly expanding medical industry ensures access to the best medical facilities. With four new healthcare innovators coming to the area – UF Health, Baptist Health, River City Rehabilitation Center, and Memorial Hospital – top-notch services and innovative programs are just minutes away. Florida’s favorable tax climate is also a huge benefit within the area, with no state income tax, estate tax, or inheritance tax.

Explore More at Tributary

With a prime natural location across 1,550 acres of land and numerous private on-site amenities, residents of Tributary truly live life on their terms. Along with the active-adult community of Lakeview 55+, Tributary offers a wide selection of new single-family homes from the $300s for any stage of life. Six designer-decorated models by three of the area’s best home builders – Dream Finders Homes, Lennar, and Richmond American Homes – are open daily at Tributary for tours. Be sure to connect with Tributary on Facebook and Instagram to keep up with all the excitement in Nassau County’s newest master-planned community. To get a full overview of the community and the surrounding area, you can also visit TributaryLiving.com, or contact the Tributary team at 904.299.6124 for more information.

Buying your first home is an exciting step in life. Envisioning future holiday dinners, celebrating with friends, and watching your family grow—all filled with smiles. However, there are a lot of moving parts to purchasing your first home, and it can be just as scary as it is exciting. First-time homebuyers often venture out into the market without the knowledge or experience needed to recognize the potential pitfalls to avoid in the process. Here’s a look at the most common mistakes homebuyers make, and how you can avoid them.

1. Do Your Research Before Looking at Homes

While it’s exciting to view homes, first-time homebuyers should research the area they plan to move to and get pre-approved for a mortgage before they start searching. Talking to a mortgage lender will help you navigate the Florida laws, and incentives for buying new construction homes. Florida offers numerous homestead incentives for first-time homebuyers, including reducing your property tax bill, and reducing the value of your home for the assessment of property taxes. They also do not have a state income tax or collect property taxes, creating a desirable lower cost of living.

Having a mortgage lender will also show sellers that you’re a serious buyer whose credit and finances are in good shape. In today’s competitive market, deals are often closed in a matter of days. Having a pre-approval and knowing the financial benefits of that state can help eliminate any points of delay in the process and could improve your chances of having your offer accepted.

Research Homes Before Looking at New Homes

2. Talking to Only One Lender

When getting preapproved for a mortgage, first-time homebuyers often get a mortgage from the first (and only) lender or bank they talk to. However, the more you “shop around” and compare offers, the better basis you’ll have to ensure you’re getting a great deal with the lowest rates possible. According to a 2018 Consumer Financial Protection Bureau study, the average borrower could have saved $300 a year, or $9,000 over a 30-year mortgage had they compared mortgage offers. Homebuyers can avoid this mistake by comparing the rates, lender fees, and loan terms of at least three different lenders.

First-Time Homebuyers Working with mortgage lenders in jacksonville florida

3. Being Careless with Credit

When buying a home, the mortgage lender will pull your credit report at both the pre-approval stage and just before closing. To ensure nothing jeopardizes the closing and final loan approval, many lenders will advise to not open or close any accounts, take out new loans, or make large purchases while searching for a new home. Homebuyers are also advised to keep a check of their current credit score. Many banks offer free credit monitoring to their customers and give advice on what to focus on to improve your score.

4. Focusing on the House, Not the Neighborhood

While it is important that the house checks all the items on your wish list, selecting the right town or community is equally as crucial. Do your research on the surrounding area, including school ratings, commute times, nearby activities, and more. For those looking to move to North Florida, the master-planned community Tributary presents an incredible opportunity for work-life balance, through the freedom of an active outdoor lifestyle while being near the thriving Jacksonville region.

Family riding bikes

5. Don’t Overthink the Long-Term Plan

As you shop for your dream home, it’s easy to focus on the details that make you personally fall in love with the property. However, first-time homebuyers should recognize that their first house isn’t always their forever home. It’s important to keep in mind the resale value of your home, so you can always make the move when you’re ready. New construction homes provide the best value for resale, designed with today’s most sought-after features and taking advantage of current technology advances. Other important features to look for include open concept layouts, outdoor appeal, and overall energy efficiency.

Tivoli Home in Tributary Florida

Live Life on Your Terms

When it comes to buying a new home, there are so many aspects that need to be considered. Tributary makes it easy to hit all the items on your wish list, with an impressive selection of new, single-family homes from the $300s. The Model Home Village is open daily to showcase the unique styles and designs of our builders – Dream Finders Homes, Lennar, and Richmond American Homes.

At Tributary, residents get to Explore More with a prime natural location and private on-site amenities. The Lookout Lakefront Clubhouse is Tributary’s newest amenity center set to open this summer. Here, residents will enjoy a fitness studio, resort-inspired pool, pickleball courts, a playground, dog park, and more. Additionally, Tributary recently announced the start of pre-sales in Lakeview 55+, Nassau County’s newest active-adult neighborhood.

To get a full overview of the community and surrounding area, be sure to discover the Digital Brochure, or connect with Tributary on Facebook and Instagram. To view available homes or to schedule an in-person tour, visit TributaryLiving.com or contact the Tributary team at 904-299-6124.

The Northeast Florida division of Lennar Corporation, the nation’s largest builder of quality homes for all generations, is now offering pre-sales for homesites at Lakeview at Tributary, the newest active adult community in Nassau County. Home prices will range from the low $300,000s to $450,000s.

Lakeview is the first and only active adult neighborhood in the Tributary master-planned community. With 441 single-family homes, the gated neighborhood will feature approximately 10 floorplans offering 1,500 square feet to more than 3,000 square feet of living space. Premium homesites take advantage of stunning lakefront and preserve views.

“With access to incredible state parks, beaches, shopping and dining, combined with world class amenities, low-maintenance floor plans and an amenity-rich lifestyle, Lakeview at Tributary is designed for today’s active adult homebuyer,” said Matt Figlesthaler, Vice President of Sales and Marketing. “Lakeview has something for everyone at one of North Florida’s most active, naturally-inspired communities.”

retirement community master site plan

Residents at Lakeview will enjoy exclusive neighborhood amenities, including an 8,000-square-foot clubhouse and fitness center, a resort-style pool with cabanas, pavilion, tennis courts, pickleball courts and bocce ball lawn. Homeowners will also have access to miles of planned nature trails, bike paths and parks throughout Tributary.

Tributary is a 1,550-acre master-planned community in Yulee, Florida, surrounded by parks, golf courses, retail outlets and recreation centers, such as the Amelia National Tennis Club and River City Shopping Center. Positioned along Florida State Route 200, it provides easy access to popular attractions such at the Jacksonville Airport and Fernandina Beach.

Every new Lennar home comes complete with high-end features and upgrades at no additional cost thanks to the homebuilder’s signature Everything’s Included® program. At Lakeview, homebuyers enjoy features such as quartz countertops, designer cabinets, wood tile inspired flooring, window blinds, paver driveways and patios, screened-in patios, home automation included and more.

As you plan for retirement, one of the most important considerations is where you will live. However, searching for an active-adult community is not just searching for a new home. It’s searching for a community that will enhance your lifestyle with fun-filled activities. For many, Florida has become the retirement destination of choice. But it’s not just sunny beaches and blue skies capturing retirees’ attention. Located just north of Jacksonville, the master-planned community of Tributary just introduced a new 55+ active adult neighborhood, Lakeview. The community concept has received tremendous interest from retirees searching for affordability and an unmatched roster of amenities. Here are a few additional features that checked the box for “must-haves” with Tributary’s active adult homebuyers.

retirement community floorplan

1. New Home Construction

Today’s new home construction offers more benefits than ever before, making them an ideal choice for retirees. According to a recent survey by the Private Communities Registry, three of the most important features to homebuyers in today’s market are an open floor plan, single-level homes, and low maintenance. Designed with today’s most sought-after features and taking advantage of technology advances, new homes often provide a worry-free and low-maintenance lifestyle.

Future residents at Tributary’s Lakeview 55+ community will work with one of the nation’s leading homebuilders, Lennar, to choose one of their 10 open floorplans ranging from 1,500 to more than 3,000 square feet of living space. Each home will also come with Lennar’s industry exclusive Everything’s Included® program, where the home builder’s most popular options and upgrades are built into the base price of the home.

retirement community master site plan

2. Fitness, Fun, and Friends

Another important feature to consider when searching for an active-adult community is the kind of lifestyle you wish to lead. 81% of today’s homebuyers said active lifestyle amenities were a must-have for their new home, citing swimming pools, walking/ biking trails, and fitness centers as their most-preferred amenities. Reserved for the exclusive use of Lakeview’s active adult residents and their guests, Lakeview’s amenities are planned to include an approximately 8,000-square-foot-clubhouse and fitness center, a resort-style pool with cabanas, a pavilion, tennis courts, pickleball courts, and a bocce ball lawn. Homeowners will also enjoy the miles of planned nature trails, bike paths, and parks throughout Tributary.

3. Florida’s Favorable Tax Climate

If you’re choosing to move to a new area, it’s important to consider the tax and financial benefits of that state. Florida is an extremely tax-friendly state, as it boasts no state income tax. This means Social Security income, pension income, and income from an IRA or 401(k) all go untaxed, saving retirees thousands of dollars annually. Florida also does not impose any estate or inheritance taxes, protecting residents and their heirs from state taxes on their descendant’s estate.

4. Proximity to Medical Facilities

Any retiree’s must-have list should also include what’s in the immediate surrounding area, including access to top-rated healthcare facilities. Nassau County has become the medical hub of North Florida, with a rapidly expanding medical industry that ensures access to the best medical facilities. With four new healthcare innovators coming to the area – UF Health, Baptist Health, River City Rehabilitation Center, and Memorial Hospital – top-notch services and innovative programs are just minutes away. Veterans also appreciate Nassau County’s proximity to numerous military bases in the area, including Naval Air Station Jacksonville, Naval Station Mayport, Naval Submarine Base, Kings Bay, and more. These military bases matched with numerous VA clinics in the area ensure veterans also have access to personalized healthcare services.

5. Planned Activities and Events

Additionally, the community you choose to live in should build a sense of camaraderie between neighbors. With a full-time lifestyle director on hand, residents at Lakeview will enjoy many events, activities, and programs designed for a variety of interests. These activities will not only keep residents active and engaged but also will create a welcoming and family-like setting that is second-to-none.

Retirement Community with Friends

Explore More at Tributary

Tributary’s Lakeview 55+ is now selling prime lakefront and preserve homesites. Each single-family home within this gated community will be enhanced with an amenity-rich lifestyle designed for today’s active-adult homebuyer.

Spanning across 1,550 acres of land, Nassau County’s newest master-planned community Tributary also offers a wide selection of new single-family homes from the $300’s for any stage of life. Six designer-decorated model homes by three of the area’s best home builders – Dream Finders Homes, Lennar, and Richmond American Homes – are open daily at Tributary for tours. To get a full overview of the community and surrounding area, be sure to connect with Tributary on Facebook and Instagram. You can also visit TributaryLiving.com or contact the Tributary team at 904.299.6124 for more information.

GreenPointe Developers proudly announces the firm was honored by the Northeast Florida Builder Association’s Sales and Marketing Council with five Laurel Awards honoring three of its Northeast Florida communities. The awards recognized TrailMark, a nature-first community in St. Johns County, Tributary, a master-planned community set amongst natural waterways and evergreen forests in Nassau County, and Granary Park, a new recreation-rich single-family home community in Clay County.

“We are thrilled to receive these honors for successfully communicating the exceptional lifestyle and competitive differences at our communities of TrailMark, Tributary and Granary Park,” said GreenPointe Developers Marketing Director Gaynelle James. “We appreciate the accolades from our industry peers, and we hope it will encourage everyone to learn more about our unique communities.”

TrailMark’s outdoor family-friendly Touch-A-Truck event received a gold award for Best Customer Promotional Event. The community welcomed more than 3,500 visitors who enjoyed climbing aboard and exploring vehicles of all shapes and sizes, and there was a Family Fun Zone with activities, food trucks and more. The event generated goodwill for the community and hundreds of leads for homebuilders, while providing a day of outdoor fun, exploration and imagination for residents and guests. TrailMark also received a gold award for its signage program that enhances everyone’s experience of the community’s comprehensive trail network and natural amenities.

Tributary was recognized for its online presence with a gold award for Best Facebook page and a silver award for Best Community Website. The Tributary Facebook page provides interesting and engaging content that educates the user on the surrounding area and opportunities at Tributary. The community’s innovative website, TributaryLiving.com, offers visitors a highly insightful online resource, providing in-depth information about the community, the area’s assets and other topics of interest.

Granary Park received the gold award for Best Logo. The community is situated among gently rolling farmland, and the logo honors the property’s legacy and heritage while presenting a fresh, modern and contemporary identity. Unlike logos for other real estate developments, the Granary Park logo provides distinction for the community as a nature-first enclave with unique appeal and character.

“GreenPointe is fortunate to work with brilliant creative partners, Ruckus Agency and Cotton & Company, who are an irreplaceable asset to our team,” James added. “I am impressed by their remarkable talents, and I thank them for their support in our efforts to succeed.” GreenPointe is developing communities throughout Florida. For more information, visit GreenPointeLLC.com.

Spring break is almost here, and families in North Florida are searching for ways to keep their little ones entertained over the break. Luckily for residents of Nassau County, there are endless activities, museums, and adventures available that will not only entertain every family member but also keep children learning while they are out of school. Take a look at some of our favorite family-friendly spring break activities you should consider.

1. Museum of Science & History (MOSH)

Located in central Jacksonville along the Southbank Riverwalk, the Museum of Science & History is filled with hands-on activities in science, history, and innovation. Three levels of exciting exhibits leave much to see and explore, including full-scale skeletons, fossils, live animal shows, planetarium programs, and more.

2. Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens

The Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens is a fantastic family-friendly attraction where guests can get up close and personal with over 2,000 animals. The zoo is filled with interactive exhibits, including a stingray touch tank, feeding the giraffes, and a petting zoo. Children can also enjoy riding the train that circles around the entire park, a splash zone, a playground, and a butterfly garden.

giraffe at jacksonville zoo - nassau attractions

3. Explore the Outdoors

Nassau County is filled with parks and nature trails to be explored by families of all ages. Residents of Tributary, the area’s newest master-planned community, benefit from their close proximity to Four Creeks State Forest, creating a natural neighbor full of birdwatching, hiking, fishing, and more to enjoy. The nearby Amelia Island is one of the best islands in Florida for wildlife viewing. Fort Clinch State Park is another family-friendly favorite, offering fishing, shell hunting, swimming, camping, surfing, and more.

aeiral image of the fort clinch state park one of the nassau attractions

4. Catty Shack Ranch Wildlife Sanctuary

Catty Shack Ranch is a nonprofit organization based in Jacksonville that provides a safe home to endangered big cats. With a mission to educate the public on the animals that they care for, Catty Shack is a great option for kids that love animals. Current residents include tigers, lions, pumas, leopards, lynx, and more.

5. Amelia Island Nature Center

Established in 1997, the Amelia Island Nature Center houses numerous rescued animals and holds various nature-themed tours. Here, families can stroll through the numerous nature trails, or join one of the numerous tours on foot, bike, paddleboard, or kayak. Other activities include shell and shark tooth hunts, nature crafts, and children’s programs.

6. American Beach Skateboard Tour

Easy to ride and great fun for the entire family, the American Beach Skateboard Tour by Amelia Island Board Rentals takes you on American Beach with their electric long boards built to glide through the sand. The tour comes with your own guide and personal photographer to show you best beach spots and capture the family fun you’ll be sure to have.

7. Fernandina Beach Skate Park

Adjacent to the Main Beach Park, the Fernandina Beach Skate Park is a great place for your kids to ride through a variety of ramps and other obstacles for skateboarders, roller bladders and scooter riders.

New Homes at Tributary

Spanning across 1,550 acres of land, the master-planned community Tributary puts residents in close proximity to all the surrounding cities have to offer. Offering a wide selection of new, single-family homes from the $300’s, six designer-decorated model homes are open daily at Tributary for tours. Discover the impressive constructions by three of the area’s best homebuilders- Dream Finders Homes, Lennar and Richmond American Homes.

At Tributary, residents get to Explore More with a prime natural location and private on-site amenities. The Lookout lakefront resident amenity center will feature amenities such as a fitness studio, resort-inspired pool, pickleball courts, a playground, dog park and more. The new amenity center is scheduled to be open to residents next summer. Additionally, Tributary announced the addition of Lakeview 55+, Nassau County’s newest active-adult neighborhood that is now open for sales.

To get a full overview of the community and surrounding area, be sure to connect with Tributary on Facebook and Instagram. You can also visit TributaryLiving.com or contact the Tributary team at 904.299.6124 for more information.

If you are searching for a new home in Florida, you have probably heard the term “CDD”, but do you know what it means? CDD’s, or Community Development Districts, are becoming more common in new development communities throughout the state of Florida. Thus, it is crucial for homebuyers to understand the benefits of living in one. Keep reading to learn more about what a CDD is and why they are a common asset for new housing developments.

What is a CDD?

CDD’s were developed in 1980 by the Florida State Legislature under Chapter 190 of the Florida Statutes as a form of special-purpose government with no influence over county or city. The goal of a CDD is to financially support the infrastructure required to build a community. A community that features a CDD does require its residents to pay an annual fee that is separate from an HOA. This fee is included in the annual property tax bill and is designed to be mutually beneficial for residents, local government and developer.

Additionally, the fees associated with a CDD contribute to the maintenance and improvements of the community from the start of a project. This fee finances the CDD, which in turn helps new home developments go beyond the typical offerings of conventional communities and create a truly special home for its residents. As a special-purpose government framework, CDD’s can offer superior benefits to residents ranging from the building of the extraordinary infrastructure to creating incomparable amenities.

tributary's board walk trails a Homebuyers Benefit from CDDs

What is a CDD responsible for?

While an HOA only handles the overall appearance of an area, a CDD goes a step further to provide residents with the ability to steer the direction of their community’s future. Typically, a CDD is responsible for maintenance and improvements on a range of infrastructure necessities from stormwater management to street paving or streetlights. Once the community is more built out, a five-member Board of Supervisors is elected to direct how the future of the community’s CDD operates.

Tributary, a community nestled just north of Jacksonville, Florida, is represented with a CDD which is now responsible for neighborhood maintenance using the funds accumulated from its residents thus far. This involves building and maintaining roadways, lakes and ponds, landscaping, street lighting and community amenities. Having a CDD in place helps ensure these areas are kept in top condition for residents to enjoy as the community grows.

tributary's monument sign just outside the community

How do residents benefit from a CDD?

The community facilities and services of residents living within a CDD are superior to those without. Not only is the quality of amenities offered in a CDD more remarkable, but the variety is typically more extensive than a traditional community. A CDD ensures accountability through additional funding in amenity developments as well as continuing to maintain the framework of the community.

For example, at Tributary, their current amenity development project is The Lookout, a lakefront resident clubhouse featuring a fitness studio, resort-inspired pool, pickleball courts, playground, dog park and more. This project is being supported by the community’s CDD structure and is an exceptional example of what will be made available to residents with the help of CDD funding.

With a CDD in place, residents at Tributary will never have to worry about whether their community’s quality and value will drop. Tributary, Nassau County’s newest master-planned community, offers an impressive selection of new, single-family homes from the $300’s by the area’s top builders. Dream Finders Homes, Lennar and Richmond American Homes are bringing in their unique styles and designs to create a truly special and diverse place to live. Tributary’s Model Home Village features 6 designer-decorated models and is open daily for tours. These models can also be virtually toured here. Recently, Tributary announced the addition of Lakeview 55+, Nassau County’s newest active-adult neighborhood within the community.

Tributary is located just north of Jacksonville, Florida and spans across 1,550 acres of land. State-protected land borders the west side of the community and provides many outdoor adventures for the residents. Additionally, Tributary is scheduled to feature Tributary Regional Park which will provide residents with outstanding recreational activity options for the entire family. Only 15 minutes to the south, you’ll find the Jacksonville International Airport and River City Marketplace, a major regional shopping, dining and entertainment destination.

Be sure to download the Digital Brochure which will give you an overview of the community and surrounding area. You can also connect with Tributary on Facebook and Instagram to stay updated on the latest progress within the community. To learn more, please visit TributaryLiving.com.

Located in Nassau County, Amelia Island is a true Florida gem. With a rich history and an abundance of shorelines, there is no shortage of waterfront dining options. Hit the beach and grab a bite to eat or plan an unforgettable dinner date. Here are five local, waterfront restaurants that combine great flavor with beautiful views.

exterior of the salty pelican waterfront restaurants

1. Salty Pelican Bar & Grill

This highly rated casual-American restaurant located in Fernandina Beach boasts some of the best quick-bite seafood options in town. From peel and eat shrimp to fresh fish tacos, the menu has an endless selection of tasty nautical cuisine. The waterfront views give life to a wonderful outdoor atmosphere. Meet up with friends to watch your favorite sports teams on the overhead TVs at the indoor bar.

aerial image of down under restaurant

2. Down Under Restaurant

Another seafood staple, Down Under Restaurant is a unique establishment with over 80 feet of floating dock and a large outdoor deck. Located right off Highway A1A and the Amelia River waterway, this island gem is a must-visit. The restaurant features a Tiki Bar that serves a variety of handcrafted cocktails, such as their infamous Wave Runner. The raw and fried oysters are also fan-favorites here.

exterior of the dockside at sunset on amelia island

3. Dockside Seafood Restaurant

Located on the east side of the intracoastal waterway, Dockside Seafood Restaurant offers quick-service seafood fresh from the inside market. The casual outdoor seating boasts a great view of the marsh and nearby bridge! Have you ever tried authentic Florida gator tail? At Dockside, this distinctive dish is served lightly battered with special dipping sauce.

bretts waterway cafe on amelia island

4. Brett’s Waterway Cafe

Satisfy your sweet tooth with a Key Lime Tart or indulge in a crisp, cold lager while taking in the view at Brett’s Waterway Cafe. This quaint, waterfront cafe offers a large menu with a variety of seafood and American casual cuisine to choose from. Brett’s is great for anyone looking to enjoy breathtaking views and delicious food on Amelia Island.

exterior of the salt life food shack Jacksonville

5. Salt Life Food Shack

With two stories to explore, Salt Life Food Shack is a beautiful waterfront restaurant on the Atlantic coast of Fernandina Beach just north of Amelia Island. This Main Beach Park restaurant has an eclectic menu with something for everyone to enjoy. Try the mouth-watering poke tuna tacos (sourced sustainably from the Wishbones of Costa Rica) or the renowned Boca Style Grouper Sandwich. Family and large group friendly seating is readily available, and the outdoor views of the coastline are simply stunning.

Only a short drive west of these beautiful waterfront restaurants is Tributary, Nassau County’s newest master-planned community. Tributary residents are spoiled for choice when it comes to one-of-a-kind dining with waterfront views. This community offers an impressive selection of new, single-family homes from the $300’s by the area’s top builders. Dream Finders Homes, Lennar and Richmond American Homes are bringing their own unique style and designs that create a truly special and diverse place to live. Tributary’s Model Home Village features 6 designer-decorated models and is open daily for tours, these models can also be virtually toured here.

Tributary is located just north of Jacksonville, Florida and spans across 1,550 acres of land. State-protected land borders the west side of the community and provides many outdoor adventures for the residents. Only 15 minutes to the south, you’ll find the Jacksonville International Airport and River City Marketplace, a major regional shopping, dining and entertainment destination. The Lookout lakefront resident clubhouse is underway and will feature amenities such as a fitness studio, resort-inspired pool, pickleball courts, a playground, dog park and more. The new amenity center is scheduled to be open to residents next spring.

Additionally, Tributary announced the addition of Lakeview 55+, Nassau County’s newest active-adult neighborhood within the community. Be sure to download the Digital Brochure which will give you an overview of the community and surrounding area. You can also connect with Tributary on Facebook and Instagram to stay updated on the latest progress within the community. To learn more, you can visit TributaryLiving.com or contact the Tributary team at 904.299.6124.