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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Job growth in North Florida and the Jacksonville area is on the rise, and many families are now searching for the best place to buy a home in the surrounding area. For young families, there are a variety of factors to consider when choosing a location to put down roots. New homebuyers should look for the best value for their investment and convenient access to the city center. Families, also need to consider the surrounding area schools, medical facilities, parks, and recreation to support their long-range plans.
In a suburb north of Jacksonville in Nassau County lies the family-oriented Tributary community recently opened by GreenPointe Developers. Tributary has been designed to be a quaint hometown for busy commuters and young families. Surrounded by nature and plenty of fun-filled amenities, this community is also an excellent choice for the young at heart. Check out the top 5 reasons why your family will love living in North Florida.
The Nassau County School District is one of the best school districts in North Florida. With 16 accredited schools, this district has received A-ratings for the past several years. It is no wonder why young families are sending their children to school here. Not only is Tributary located within the Nassau County School District, but the community is also the future site of a brand-new school! The site of the new school will be only steps away for Tributary homeowners. Families will be able to play an active role in their children’s education due to the proximity of its location. This school will serve not just Tributary residents, but also the surrounding area.
Home to beautiful beaches and parks, Nassau County is the perfect place for young families to learn about the lush landscape of North Florida. Between nearby springs, rivers, forests and marshes, children have the chance to experience nature up close and personal. At Tributary, nature trails connect all areas of the community. Families can even launch their own kayaks and canoes at The Landing at Boggy Creek, or just relax by the fire at the riverside park.
For ocean-lovers, North Florida is home to many world-class beaches. Tributary is less than 30 minutes from Seaside Park on Amelia Island. Families enjoy spending the day relaxing on the warm sand and swimming in the crystal blue ocean. Explore the quaint surrounding beach towns of Amelia Island and Fernandina Beach. With over 30 beach access points alone on Amelia Island, it has never been easier to soak up the sunshine. The coastal paradise of North Florida makes it an ideal location to raise a family.
Nassau County’s newest neighborhood, Tributary, is delivering an abundance of resort-style amenities that are sure to entertain everyone in the family. The highly anticipated amenity center, The Lookout, will include a resort-style pool complete with a children’s splash pad. Tributary’s aquatic amenities are sure to be a popular place for families to congregate on warm sunny days. Featuring large workout spaces and modern equipment, the state-of-the-art Fitness Studio will encourage residents to live a healthy and active lifestyle. Children will let their imagination run wild at the beautifully landscaped Adventure Zone. Not your typical playground, this area is a space designed for young families and children to come together and connect. Joining in on a national craze, Tributary will have a complex with two standard-sized lakeside pickleball courts. This game is great for young families looking for a new and fun activity. Soon to be complete with a fully fenced play area, obstacle course and seemingly endless grass, the Dog Park is a place for pups to play and socialize. Tributary will also be home to a regional park in Nassau County. Tributary Regional Park plans will include baseball and multi-purpose fields, picnic areas, playground, dog park and a trail that connects to the Tributary neighborhood.
Ideally located, Nassau County boasts proximity to all the best attractions and the favorable tax environment in Florida. The short commute to Jacksonville allows business professionals to work in the city while simultaneously living with their families in a relaxed suburb. Tributary is also in an excellent location for young families looking to explore Florida. This community is less than a three-hour drive from popular attractions and cities. Excursions like Walt Disney World, Universal Studios and the Kennedy Space Center are all family-friendly and can be enjoyed within a couple hours’ drive. Whether families are going to globally revered amusement parks or quaint little beach towns, Tributary is North Florida’s ideal address.
Spanning 1,220 acres, Tributary features beautiful new homes that capture the low-country spirit, complementing the surrounding nature throughout the community. With new homes starting from the $300’s, Dream Finders Homes, Lennar and Richmond American Homes are bringing their unique style and designs that will create special and diverse residences. Tributary is located just 1.6 miles west of I-95 along A1A/SR 200 (the Amelia Island exit) and 15 minutes south of the Jacksonville International Airport and River City Marketplace, a major regional shopping, dining, and entertainment destination.
The Model Home Village with six designer-decorated models is open to tour, so now is the perfect time to stop by for a visit. You can also connect with us on Facebook and Instagram, and be sure to check out our Community’s Digital Brochure, which will give you an overview of the community and what is to come! To learn more information, visit TributaryLiving.com or contact Tributary at 904.299.6124.
Located in the northeast corner of Florida, along the Atlantic Ocean and I-95, picturesque Nassau County sprawls along Florida’s northernmost coast. While it’s known for outdoor adventures on pristine beaches and majestic timberland, one of the area’s best kept secrets is stellar saltwater and freshwater fishing! Dark, sparkling creek water flows through the hammocks and swamps toward the Nassau River, where trophy size largemouth bass and bream are ready to strike. One of the rarely fished hot spots is Lofton Creek, known only among select anglers as a goldmine for bass. The many tidewater feeder streams are perfect examples of the angling adventures awaiting you in Nassau County.
Another prime watering hole for anglers is located just around the corner in Jacksonville, on the St. Johns River. The river runs for twenty-nine miles within Jacksonville, and while you can book a charter, you don’t need a boat to fish the shorelines. There are many waterfront parks and preserves to pull into and enjoy along the river. Catch a variety of fish including Redfish, Spanish Mackerel, Sheepshead, Black Drum, Jacks, Tarpon, Flounder and other Inshore saltwater fish.
This time of year is perfect for Trout fishing. Local fishing reports tout the oyster beds down river as the “honey hole” for catching Seatrout and Flounder with jigs and live shrimp. Those looking to explore more of the coastline, Amelia Island is just minutes away where the Mangove Snapper are popping. Discover the gorgeous beaches, native wildlife, and a historic district with quaint shops and cafes. Casting a line into the surf from the beach is possible too. Surf fishing in North Florida is excellent during the summer and early fall seasons. At the southern tip of Amelia Island, you can also find a small jetty and the mile-long George Crady Bridge Fishing Pier. Both spots provide excellent points for catching flounder, sea trout and redfish.
For adventurers and nature lovers looking to immerse themselves in Nassau County’s wonder-coast permanently, the master-planned community Tributary has the answer. This 1,550-acre community is just minutes away from A-rated schools, premium healthcare, and countless outdoor explorations. And the best part? Tributary is designed and seated within Florida’s natural environment, bringing future residents all the wondrous biodiversity, fishing, and adventure right to their door.
Within the community, residents will enjoy the outdoor lifestyle, resort-inspired pool, fitness center activities at the fun-filled Amenity Center, kayak launch, and a beautifully designed trail system that connects to Four Creeks State Forest and Tributary Park. Master-planned and surrounded by nature, you’ll never run out of ways to Explore More. Exciting new modern-rustic homes start from the $300s. The Designer Model Home Park is celebrating it’s Grand Opening May 22nd! For more information you can register for our TributaryDigital Brochure and be among the first to recieve community news & information.
GreenPointe Developers, LLC, Dream Finders Homes, Lennar and Richmond American Homes recently celebrated the start of construction on six new model homes at Tributary, North Florida’s best new master-planned community.
“We anticipate high demand for our distinctive home designs from our premier builder team at Tributary,” said GreenPointe’s North Florida Regional President Mike Taylor. “Our community will offer a wonderful environment with a convenient location, miles of scenic nature trails, direct access to the river and exceptional amenities. We look forward to welcoming future homeowners to North Florida’s most exciting new community.”
Dream Finders Homes, Lennar and Richmond American Homes at Tributary are offering a distinctive collection of award-winning home designs ranging in size and style to meet the needs and lifestyle of today’s homebuyers. The Tributary model home village will feature six model homes, two from each builder, showcasing open concept designs, innovative features and flexible spaces for family living and entertainment.
The Tributary builders are offering more than 30 floor plans that include one- and two-story single-family homes ranging in size from approximately 1,600 square feet to more than 3,200 square feet. Many of the neighborhood’s home sites will feature preserve or lake views. Homes at Tributary are priced from the $300s and pre-sales are underway. Tributary’s model home village will open in early 2021.
Spanning 1,550 acres, Tributary’s prime location amongst the natural waterways and majestic evergreen forests truly complement the community’s mantra of Exploring More. Tributary residents will enjoy private on-site amenities including The Lookout, a lakefront resident clubhouse with a resort-inspired pool and relaxation areas. Workout warriors will appreciate the state-of-the-art fitness studio while the younger crowd will delight in the Adventure Zone tot-lot and array of sports courts. The community’s furry friends will adore Pawsome Park.
Tributary’s neighborhoods will include family friendly pocket parks, while miles of scenic nature trails will provide quick access to the community’s amenities as well as The Landing kayak and canoe park, the neighboring protected sanctuary of Four Creeks State Forest and the new Tributary Regional Park, currently under construction. Tributary Regional Park will include baseball and multi-purpose fields, a kayak launch, concessions, and multi-purpose trails. Tributary will always have an adventure waiting to be taken. Tributary is within the Nassau County Public School District and zoned for A-rated schools that are among the best in Florida.
Tributary is 1.6 miles west of Interstate-95. The community’s location is two exits north of the Jacksonville International Airport and River City Marketplace, a regional shopping, dining and entertainment destination. The historic town of Fernandina and the beautiful beaches of Amelia Island are located east of Tributary on Scenic A1A/SR 200. Tributary is near dining, shopping, recreation, medical centers, services and more.
For more information about Tributary and the community’s builder team, visit www.TributaryLiving.com or call 904.299.6124.
GreenPointe Developers is the community and urban development division of GreenPointe Holdings with extensive real estate market data and analytical systems to rapidly assess real estate values and challenges.
The GreenPointe team has more than 140 years of collective experience in developing some of the most sought-after master-planned and condominium communities in the Southeast. The team creates and transforms residential and mixed-use communities into neighborhoods for today’s homebuyer while providing lasting, sustainable value.
Having the utmost respect for the land, the GreenPointe team works diligently to protect and enhance nature’s best assets. This thoughtful practice allows GreenPointe Developers to create and reenergize communities that provide for an enduring lifestyle where people want to live, work and enjoy recreation.
More information is available at www.GreenPointeLLC.com or (904) 996-2485.
Living within city limits of major metropolitan areas used to be a must for many career-focused families. Being close to the office and steps away from the energetic buzz of culture and nightlife were perks that offset things like higher living costs and less square footage that come with city living. Over the last year however, homeowners have started re-evaluating what they are looking for in buying a home and have prioritized lifestyle in addition to short term needs. As a result, the market has seen a trend of people widening their home search to the suburbs and surrounding areas. This new trend is having a considerable impact on the U.S. housing market by changing consumer sentiment and behavior, let’s see why.
As homeowners seek out residences with more room and comfortable remote workspaces, sales for single-family properties in the suburbs have surged 17.3% since June. Prices for suburban housing remain competitive and interest rates are historically low, making it considerably appealing to move away from the city. This new trend is also bringing families together. Homeowners figure why not invest in a larger, updated space with more amenities and closer to nature? Properties in communities with nature trails, nearby parks, and water activities are seeing a surge in online searches.
Located in the northeast corner of Florida, beautiful Nassau County sprawls along Florida’s northernmost coast. A new master-planned community by GreenPointe Developers offers incredible value in a beautiful, natural sanctuary. Tributary has exactly what today’s suburban-seeking home buyers are looking for. This 1,550-acre community is set in nature and just minutes away from A-rated schools, premium healthcare, and countless outdoor adventures.
Millions of people are now working remotely from home, so the need to be close to an office has dwindled. Homeowners now want the place they live to be optimized for virtual work, and they want their “office” to be comfortable. This trend has also seen a 20% leasing drop in commercial real estate, meaning businesses are also embracing the new digital wave for their employees. Homeowners are saving too, with the elimination of daycare costs, commuting, parking, and even tax advantages that come with a home office. A recent study found that remote workers are 13% more efficient than office employees. This bodes well for future remote-work strategies, where companies may decide to switch up traditional workplace structures.
The recent need to stay home and social distance has also caused a great increase in popular outdoor activities. Individuals and families alike are spending more time outside in the fresh air and natural light, reconnecting with nature. North Florida’s new community, Tributary, has the solution for homeowners wanting to get away from the urban landscape. Tributary is designed and seated in Florida’s natural environment, bringing future residents all the wondrous biodiversity, fishing, and adventure right to their door. Residents can hike a wonderfully designed trail system that connects to Four Creeks State Forest and Tributary Regional Park. Amelia Island is close by and features pristine beaches, native wildlife, and a historic district with quaint shops and cafes.
Within the Tributary community, residents will enjoy the outdoor lifestyle, lagoon-style pool, fitness center, activities at the fun-filled Lookout Amenity Center, kayak launch, and beautifully designed trail systems. Master-planned and surrounded by nature, residents will never run out of ways to Explore More. New modern-rustic homes from the area’s top builders: Dream Finders, Lennar and Richmond American Homes, start from the $300s. Interested homebuyers can stay connected at TributaryLiving.com and be first to learn of any updates such as the opening of the Model Home Village in early 2021.
If you’re looking for a new suburban community surrounded by nature, Tributary has it all: value, impeccable design and planning, and amazing amenities. Upstream your lifestyle today!
A lot of things come to mind when you hear the word “forever”. It’s exciting to imagine what life has in store for you over the next 25- 30 years. One thing is certain, you are going to spend a great deal of your life here with your family, and the place you choose to call “home” should have all the features you want. As you grow through the years, your home should have the ability to grow with you. From babies, to teenagers, through college years and into empty nest stages, your home will be central to many of life’s joys and moments together. So what features are most important when considering a “forever home”? Let us help you put things into perspective.
One of the most important factors that comes to play when finding a “forever home” is an ideal location. This choice is critical to the needs and wants of everyone in your household, both now and in the future. As home prices within city limits continue to rise, and the ability to work remotely has become increasingly possible, many people are deciding to relocate to the surrounding suburbs of major cities. The appeal of more space for your money, while still being in close proximity to popular dining spots and area attractions, is greatly influencing homebuyers’ criteria as they begin their “forever home” search. The desire to reconnect with nature is also a huge draw. Communities that promote active outdoor lifestyles are becoming increasingly popular, as are homes with lots of natural light sources, fresh air and outdoor spaces to enjoy and entertain in. Zoning plays a major part in the “forever home” search too. Families with school age children want access to quality education at all levels of learning.
Recently, Florida has made the news as hundreds of people each day are moving from northern states, causing home sales to more than double across the Sunshine State. Nassau County’s own master-planned community, Tributary, is quickly becoming one of the state’s most sought out addresses. Located just north of Jacksonville and only 2 exits from the international airport, Tributary residents will find the freedom to enjoy a healthy, outdoorsy lifestyle while being in close proximity to the thriving Jacksonville region. It truly is a one-of-a-kind location surrounded by nature, close to A-rated schools, historic downtowns, shopping and incredible beaches. If a move to Florida is in your sights, this is definitely a place you want to check out.
Another major factor of your “forever home” search is its design and functionality. Is there enough square footage to accommodate your current life and future plans? Will you need room to grow or flexible living areas and multi-purpose spaces? The way you plan to use your space over the years should be considered. New construction homes are highly desired by first time home buyers and actually within reach. Open floorplans with modern and energy efficient features that are customizable to each buyers’ unique tastes are attainable in new communities popping up in the less pricey suburbs of cities. Another feature important to buyers is outdoor space. Backyards for children to run and play, for pets to frolic or space for hobbies like gardening are features of your home that add value and promote well-being.
Lastly, your “forever home” must be within your budget. The current state of the housing market definitely has its opportunities right now. Historically low interest rates are opening the doors of homeownership to many who may have previously been priced out of the market. Other factors like Florida’s below average cost of living and absence of state income tax are both huge draws for people thinking of relocating to the southeast. The option to affordably build your dream home within a new community is also now a reality.
Ultimately, your “forever home” should have everything you want and more. A great location, a functional floorplan and design with your personal touches, and an affordable price tag. If you are currently residing in or considering a move to sunny North Florida, Nassau County is a growing area that’s worth a look. GreenPointe Developers have unveiled Tributary, an exciting master-planned community located just two miles west of I-95 off of SR200/A1A.
Tributary’s renowned amenities will serve as the social centerpiece of the community. The Lookout Amenity Center will include a sparkling, lagoon-style pool, Adventure Zone tot-lot, paw-some dog park, state-of-the-art fitness studio and an array of sports courts. Pocket parks and trails that directly connect to neighboring Four Creeks State Forest as well as a kayak launch are all being designed to encourage outdoor fun and bring family and friends together to create memories right in your own backyard.
Interested buyers can view over 30 unique home designs, learn more about the community, and contact the sales team by visiting TributaryFL.com. Prepare to Blow Your river Lovin’ Mind at Tributary and discover all the desirable features that make a move to North Florida a no brainer!
YULEE, FL – The first release of homesites have sold out at Dream Finders Homes‘ newest master-planned community in Nassau County. Fifteen lots sold within a two-week period in August at Tributary, where the homebuilder will initially build more than 60 new single-family homes
One and two-story floorplans range from 1,613 to 3,285 square feet of living area with three to five bedrooms and two to five bathrooms and two and three-car garages. Base floorplan prices start from the $300s.
Two model homes are well underway in Tributary: the Driftwood plan for 50-foot homesites and the popular Avalon II designed for 60-foot homesites. Professionally decorated models will be ready for touring by late 2020, according to Brad Muston, Division President.
“This is a beautiful community in a natural setting that will offer a lakefront amenity center, a resort-style swimming pool, a state-of-the-art fitness center, an array of sports courts, and entertainment areas,” he said. “A comprehensive trail system is a key feature of this community and residents will enjoy family-friendly pocket parks and a dog park within nature-filled surroundings.”
Tributary is situated amid North Florida’s natural beauty with access to Boggy Creek that leads to the Nassau River and ultimately the Atlantic Ocean, all providing a variety of water sports opportunities.
Top-notch healthcare is minutes away along with A-rated schools, the Amelia Island beaches and major roadways providing easy access to downtown and the Jacksonville airport, Muston explained.
“There has already been an overwhelming response in our next phase of lots. We expect great success from this community and encourage buyers to take a look today as these homes go quickly.”
At buildout, the development will comprise approximately 3,200 homes spanning 1,550 acres located where A1A meets Edwards Road in Yulee.
Rent or Buy? For many average American workers, the dream of owning a home has been a lofty aspiration. Renting was a choice by necessity, not the end game. Now, with the current climate creating uncertainty in many areas of life, home ownership may be a silver lining that results from the events of 2020. Historically low interest rates are opening the doors to homeownership to many who may have previously been priced out of the market. It might sound surprising, but now may be the ideal time to transition from renting to buying, or just to make a move in general. Here are the three main things to consider:
The current state of the market certainly has its opportunities right now. Those in the seller’s shoes can negotiate higher prices for their properties due to limited existing inventory. Buyers, on the other hand, can take advantage of competitively priced homes and extremely low interest rates. The option to affordably build your dream home within a new community may also be on the table.
Potential buyers may be in a perfect position to capitalize on their situation. And if they have money already set aside to invest and job stability, even better! Timing is a key factor when considering a home purchase.
Homeownership offers not only the benefits of stability, belonging to a community and pride of ownership, but also greater financial flexibility. There are special types of loans offered to individuals like first time home buyers or veterans, tax breaks and the opportunity to build equity and long-term wealth for yourself and your family. And since interest rates are so low, your mortgage payment will most likely be less than what you were spending in rent. There are even new communities currently being developed aimed at providing a variety of options to meet every budget. Tributary, a new community by GreenPointe Developers, is bringing a new style of modern-rustic homes to Nassau County that are competitively priced from the $300s. You can take a look at the impressive selection of 30+ distinctively designed single-family homes here.
Why are you thinking of buying a new home? Is your family growing, downsizing, or are you just looking to make a move to an area more suited to your lifestyle? A growing number of people now have the flexibility to work remotely, decreasing the need to reside near and commute to an office every day. This is allowing those the option to expand their home search to more areas bringing in more choices to consider. Millennial buyers are now at the age of starting families and deciding that more square footage, quality school systems, abundant outdoor space and new communities with family-friendly amenities are a critical component of their home searches.
If you are currently residing in or considering a move to sunny North Florida, Nassau County is a growing area that’s worth a look. GreenPointe Developers has unveiled Tributary, an exciting master-planned community located just west of I-95 off of SR200/A1A. Where modern-rustic homes from the area’s top builders are affordably priced from the $200s, perfect for first time home buyers.
Tributary’s renowned amenities will serve as the social centerpiece of the community. The Lookout Amenity Center will include a sparkling, resort-inspired pool, Adventure Zone Tot-Lot, paw-some dog park, state-of-the-art fitness studio and an array of sports courts, pocket parks and trails that directly connect to neighboring Four Creeks State Forest. It’s the perfect place to gather with family and friends to create memories and “Explore More” right in your own backyard. It truly is a one-of-a-kind location surrounded by nature, close to A-rated schools, historic downtowns, shopping and incredible beaches.
Interested prospective buyers can check out over 30 unique home designs, learn more about the community, and contact the sales team by visiting TributaryLiving.com. Connect with us to stay updated and discover why Tributary is the perfect place to call home.
For many across the country, society’s “new normal” has considerably limited their social life and changed their perspective for the future. And while it’s likely to be considered risky to gather in large groups of family and friends for a while longer, maybe this is the time to explore all the ways to connect with the great outdoors! North Florida is full of amazing natural wonders with wide open spaces and fun attractions. While Nassau County is a path less traveled, it offers a diverse array of activities that has homebuyers appreciating their surroundings like never before. Here are some activities we think will spark any adventurer’s interest.
If you love the ocean, you have to visit Amelia Island and Fernandina Beach. Located on the coastline in northeast Florida, these destinations are easy to reach but hard to forget. 13 miles of coastline and over 40 public beach access points allows for plenty of room to relax under the sun, swim in the cool water, or catch some waves if the surf’s up. Top surf spots on the North side include Main Beach, American Beach, Peters Point and Ft. Clinch State Park. You can even check out the area’s surf reports and cams before paddling out. And if you want to literally “hoof it”, you can book a guided local tour of the pristine Atlantic shore by horseback.
For those who prefer traveling on their own two feet, a visit to the area’s best hiking and nature trails will keep you grounded. You can choose to explore yourself, or book a guided nature walk that takes place every Saturday morning at 10:30 am. Four Creeks State Forest covers 13,106 acres, and joins Alligator (Mills), Thomas, Boggy and Plummer Creeks. While there are many ways to explore this massive forest along the forest and service roads, the named Wood-Shingle Mill Trail stretches 2.6 miles from the trailhead located right off State Road 200. If a visit isn’t enough and you want to immerse yourself in nature, Nassau County’s newest community, Tributary, may be exactly what you’ve been searching for. This new community will feature masterfully planned trails that not only wind through its green spaces and parks, but also directly connects to the trailheads of neighboring Four Creeks State Forest.
Nearby, John Muir Ecological Park in Yulee is an easy quarter mile trail that zigzags through the forested marshland connecting a series of picnic shelters. Listen to the birds sing from the trees and even see the main line of one of Florida’s first railroads. History meets nature at Fort Clinch State Park. This historic fort, significant to the Civil War, is only one aspect of the 1,400-acre park. Hiking trails cover all types of terrain and difficulty levels, while winding through forests, marsh and sand dunes. Wildlife observation is very good on these trails. Alligators, deer, gopher tortoises and a variety of birds can be seen throughout the park.
For those looking to trek where the grasses are a bit more maintained, North Florida has almost unlimited options for golf. Nassau County in particular has a handful of courses to choose from. To name a few, the Amelia River Golf Club is a full-service semi-private golf course with a club house, pro shop, PGA golf instruction, practice areas, locker rooms and dining facilities which are open to the public. The 27-hole Fernandina Beach Golf Club is one of the most popular municipal golf facilities in the country with its close proximity to Jacksonville and area beaches. The Golf Club at North Hampton is a signature Arnold Palmer designed golf course. This top-ranked course features spring-fed lakes, wild grasses and various elevation changes, unlike any other design in Northeast Florida.
Still not getting your adrenaline levels up…how does social distancing from 12,000 feet above ground sound? Then freefalling at speeds of over 125 miles per hour. Did I get your attention? Skydiving is definitely a high octane, once in a lifetime adventure and one of the best ways for thrill seekers to take in all of Northern Florida’s natural beauty.
No matter your interests or speeds, Nassau County has something for every outdoor adventurer. One of its most anticipated additions is Tributary, a new master-planned community by GreenPointe Developers that delivers unmatched value in a beautiful, natural sanctuary. Residents of Tributary are invited to “Explore More” with a thoughtfully planned trail system that directly connects to Four Creeks State Forest and Tributary Park. Within the 1,550-acre master-planned community, residents will also enjoy The Lookout Amenity Center complete with a resort-inspired pool, fitness studio, dog park, Adventure Zone Tot-Lot, and so much more! Homes are priced from the $300s, have been unveiled and can be viewed on TributaryLiving.com. Six of the builders’ unique model homes will soon break ground and be ready to tour later this year. Be sure to connect with us to stay updated and discover why Tributary is the perfect place to call home.
