Housing Market • July 7, 2025

📚 Volusia & Flagler Schools Score Big in Latest State Report Cards

by Ryan Tesnow

The Florida Department of Education just released its 2025 school grades — and there’s great news for families living in or relocating to Volusia and Flagler Counties.

✅ Volusia County Earns an ‘A’ Grade Overall

Volusia County Schools received an A from the state, making it one of Florida’s standout districts this year. Even more impressively, no school in Volusia scored below a C, and every single high school in the district earned either an A or a B.

This is a strong indicator that Volusia’s efforts in curriculum development, teacher support, and student performance are paying off — and it’s great news for homeowners, parents, and investors alike.

✅ Flagler County Earns a Solid ‘B’

Flagler County Schools also performed well, receiving an overall B grade from the state. With ongoing investment in programs and facilities, Flagler remains a desirable area for buyers looking for a blend of community, affordability, and strong schools.

📈 Statewide Progress Sets the Tone

At a news conference in Jacksonville on July 7, Gov. Ron DeSantis announced that 71% of Florida schools are now earning A or B grades, up from 64% last year.

“That’s a really big deal,” DeSantis said. “This exceeds our performance last year, in which 64% of schools earned an A or B grade.”

This improvement shows that Florida’s academic environment is rebounding, with many districts rising to the challenge of educational accountability post-COVID.

🏡 What This Means for Buyers

If you’re considering a move to the area, school performance is one of the most reliable indicators of long-term neighborhood stability and property value. Here’s why this news matters:

Higher-ranked school zones tend to attract more demand, increasing resale potential
GreatSchools and other rating platforms often pull directly from this data
Strong schools = peace of mind for parents and more desirable communities for future buyers

🌟 Spotlight: Volusia’s Turnaround

Volusia has made notable strides in the last few years. From new leadership to investment in STEM and career/technical programs, this A-grade is the result of focused district-wide efforts. Schools like Spruce Creek High, DeLand High, and New Smyrna Beach High continue to rank well both academically and for extracurricular offerings.

🧭 Thinking About Moving?

As a local expert and Volusia County resident myself, I’ve helped dozens of families make smooth transitions into top-rated school zones — and uncover hidden gems in the process.

Whether you’re relocating from across the state or across the country, I can help guide you through:

Finding homes in A/B-rated school zones
Virtual tours and neighborhood walkthroughs
Lender connections and local market strategies
Planning ahead for school transfers and enrollment

Want to learn more about homes near Volusia or Flagler’s top schools?
Let’s connect — I’d be happy to put together a custom list tailored to your family’s goals.

Housing Market • May 14, 2025

💰 Should I Sell My Home for Cash? Here’s What You Need to Know Before Saying Yes

by Ryan Tesnow

As a REALTOR® in New Smyrna Beach, I’ve heard it all:
“Ryan, I just want to sell it fast and be done with it.”
“Can’t I just cut out the middleman and get a cash offer?”

And listen—I get it. When life throws a curveball, the idea of selling your house overnight, no showings, no repairs, no fuss? It sounds like a dream.

But before you jump at that cash offer, let’s talk about what you’re really gaining—and what you might be losing.

🧐 What Does “Sell for Cash” Really Mean?

When someone offers to “buy your home for cash,” they’re offering to close quickly—often in under 21 days—without relying on a mortgage.

Sounds great, right? But here’s the catch: you need to know who’s making that offer.

👔 1. Institutional Investors: Wall Street Buys the Beach

These are the big dogs—hedge funds and REITs like:

Invitation Homes
Progress Residential
American Homes 4 Rent

They buy in bulk and turn your house into a long-term rental.

✅ Pro: Close fast, no hassle
❌ Con: Their offers are typically 15–20% below market value

They’re not here to overpay. They’re running numbers—and they want a deal.

📲 2. iBuyers: Techy, Trendy… and Fee-Heavy

Think Opendoor and Offerpad. These platforms use algorithms to shoot out offers quickly. If your house fits their buy box (newer, suburban, not too custom), they’ll give you a number.

✅ Pro: Streamlined, no open houses
❌ Con: Service fees can hit 5–12%, and their offers are rarely top dollar

Let’s be real—they’re flipping it for profit, not doing you a favor.

🔁 3. Wholesalers: The Middleman You Didn’t See Coming

Wholesalers are usually individuals who lock your house under contract—then flip that contract to another investor.

✅ Pro: Good for distressed properties
❌ Con: They’re not licensed. They don’t actually buy your home. And if they can’t assign the deal? You could get ghosted or delayed.

I’ve seen sellers take $50K less than market value just to “get it over with”—without knowing there were better options.

💡 When Selling for Cash Might Make Sense

There are times when a cash sale is the right move:

You’re relocating fast and can’t wait 30+ days
The property is severely damaged or unlivable
You’ve inherited a home you don’t want to fix or list
You’re going through a divorce or financial hardship

But here’s the thing…

You can get all of those benefits—with a licensed, experienced REALTOR® who knows how to negotiate.
And most of the time? You’ll walk away with more money.

I’ve helped sellers close fast, as-is, and even with investors at the table—but on their terms, not theirs.

📉 Let’s Talk Numbers

A 2023 Redfin study showed sellers who accepted a cash offer from an investor netted 13–18% less than those who listed their home the traditional way—even after paying commissions and making light updates.

So sure, selling for cash might feel like skipping the hard stuff.
But ask yourself:

Is the shortcut worth what you’re leaving on the table?

🤝 Let’s Weigh Your Options—Together

I’m not here to talk you out of selling for cash.
I’m here to help you make the right move for your life—whether that’s:

A traditional listing for top dollar
A quick, no-hassle investor sale
Or a hybrid approach that gets you speed and equity

The bottom line? You don’t have to choose between fast and smart. You can have both—with the right guidance.

Ryan Tesnow, MPA
REALTOR® | Coldwell Banker Envision Real Estate
📍 New Smyrna Beach Local Expert
📞 (254) 206-5020
📧 ryan.tesnow@cbenvision.com
🏡 394-B N. Causeway | New Smyrna Beach, FL 32169

Housing Market • May 14, 2025

🏡 Campbell Crossing in Port Orange: Affordable New Homes Near It All

by Ryan Tesnow

Looking for a beautiful, modern home in a location that truly has it all? Welcome to Campbell Crossing, a brand-new home community in Port Orange, Florida offering affordable luxury starting from just $351,990. Whether you’re a first-time buyer, growing family, or simply ready for something new, this thoughtfully designed neighborhood deserves a spot on your radar.

✨ Modern Homes Built for Living

Campbell Crossing features one- and two-story floor plans ranging from 3 to 5 bedrooms, up to 2,601 sq. ft., and packed with desirable upgrades—at no extra cost.

Every home comes with:

Quartz countertops
Luxury vinyl plank flooring
Ceramic tile in wet areas
Stainless-steel appliances
Smart home technology
All concrete block construction

Open-concept layouts, modern finishes, and livable space combine to offer functionality, durability, and style for today’s buyers.

📍 Prime Location, Everyday Convenience

Situated just off I-95 at 971 Commons Way, Port Orange, Campbell Crossing puts you right in the middle of it all:

Shopping: Minutes from Tanger Outlets, The Pavilion at Port Orange, and local boutiques
Entertainment: Close to the Daytona International Speedway, Regal Theatre, and Riverwalk Park
Nature & Leisure: Enjoy kayaking, golf, boating, fishing, and scenic trails within minutes
Beaches: World-famous Daytona Beach is just a short drive away

Plus, families will love that the community is walkable to local schools like Sugar Mill Elementary and just minutes from Silver Sands Middle and Spruce Creek High.

🌿 Designed with Community in Mind

Campbell Crossing isn’t just a collection of homes—it’s a community built around comfort and connection. You’ll find:

Shaded park benches and walking paths
Proximity to Riverwalk Park (less than a mile!)
Quiet streets and well-planned layouts
Nearby schools, healthcare, and dining

With everything from smart home features to serene outdoor spaces, this is a neighborhood where families thrive and memories are made.

👀 Ready to Tour? Let’s Talk

If you’re thinking about making a move, Campbell Crossing is a must-see. With homes starting in the low $350s and packed with features that would cost extra in other communities, this is one of the best new construction values in Volusia County.

I’d love to help you explore your options here and guide you from showing to closing.

Ryan Tesnow, MPA
REALTOR® | Coldwell Banker Envision Real Estate
📍 New Smyrna Beach & Port Orange Area Expert
📞 Cell: (254) 206-5020
📧 ryan.tesnow@cbenvision.com
🏡 394-B N. Causeway | New Smyrna Beach, FL 32169

Housing Market • May 14, 2025

🌿 Discover Ardisia Park: New Smyrna Beach’s Newest Resort-Style Community (2025)

by Ryan Tesnow

If you’re dreaming of a brand-new home in New Smyrna Beach, FL, one of the most exciting new communities is quietly taking shape on over 500 acres of thoughtfully designed space—welcome to Ardisia Park.

With homes starting from $454,999 and options ranging from 3 to 7 bedrooms and up to 4,830 square feet, Ardisia Park offers something for every lifestyle—from growing families to those seeking more space and modern amenities. These one- and two-story homes are built for comfort, style, and long-term value. And yes—natural gas, stainless steel appliances, 42” upper cabinets, and solid surface countertops all come standard.

🏡 A Community Built for Living

This isn’t just another development. Ardisia Park is designed for true Florida living, offering a balance between resort-style amenities and natural preservation. Community features will include:

Clubhouse with fitness center, kitchen & gathering space
Resort-style pool & cabana
Pickleball courts, playground, basketball courts, and a dog park
Walking trails and a certified Monarch Butterfly Garden
Lots situated on ponds and natural preserves

Whether you’re out walking the dog or relaxing by the pool, Ardisia Park is a neighborhood you’ll never want to leave.

📍 Location That Connects You

528 Moon Shell Circle, New Smyrna Beach, FL 32168
Ardisia Park offers quick access to SR-44, I-95, and I-4, placing you close to:

Beaches: Just 8 miles to New Smyrna Beach
Healthcare: AdventHealth and Halifax within 10 miles
Dining & Shopping: Minutes from Port Orange Pavilion, Publix, and the Shoppes at Coronado
Education: Near Daytona State College and Embry-Riddle University
Theme Parks: Within 55 miles of Orlando attractions

This is a community that offers you the convenience of city life while preserving the feel of a quiet, residential escape.

🌎 Nature Meets Smart Growth

Ardisia Park isn’t just about building homes—it’s about building a lifestyle. The community is carefully planned to conserve wetlands and protect natural beauty, while still offering every modern amenity you could want. For homebuyers who want more than just a house—but a real sense of place—Ardisia Park delivers.

🤔 Thinking About Making a Move?

If you’ve been waiting for the right opportunity to buy new in New Smyrna Beach, Ardisia Park is worth a serious look. With a variety of floor plans, price points, and amenities designed for long-term value, this community is positioned to be one of the area’s most desirable neighborhoods.

I’d love to help you explore it. Whether you’re just starting to browse or ready to schedule a private tour, I’m here to help every step of the way.

Ryan Tesnow, MPA
REALTOR® | Coldwell Banker Envision Real Estate
📍 New Smyrna Beach Local Expert
📞 Cell: (254) 206-5020
📧 ryan.tesnow@cbenvision.com
🏡 394-B N. Causeway | New Smyrna Beach, FL 32169

Housing Market • May 14, 2025

🚧 Deering Park Innovation Center Approved in 4-1 Vote: Progress or Problem for New Smyrna Beach?

by Ryan Tesnow

In a packed and emotionally charged meeting on May 13th, the New Smyrna Beach City Commission voted 4-1 to approve the Deering Park Innovation Center PUD rezoning, greenlighting what could become one of the most transformational developments in Southeast Volusia County history.

This decision comes amid heavy protest, with over 80 residents voicing concerns about flooding, infrastructure strain, environmental impact, and the overall direction of growth in NSB. Yet, commissioners argued the project offers a long-term, organized solution to the inevitable population and economic pressures heading our way.

So… what exactly is coming?

🏗️ What Is Deering Park Innovation Center?

The approved plan spans 1,618 acres and is part of a much larger 70,000-acre vision that touches both Volusia and Brevard counties. The NSB portion, dubbed the “Innovation Center,” will be built out over several decades. Here’s a quick snapshot of what’s proposed:

2,150 residential units (including single-family homes, townhouses, build-to-rent properties, and apartments)
6 million sq ft of commercial, industrial, and mixed-use space
A 423-acre Innovation Park with space for corporate HQs
A 60-acre regional park and sports complex
Dedicated space for public facilities (police, utilities)
Trails, multi-modal paths, and large natural vegetation preserves
An engineered stormwater system with a 10-year bond to mitigate flooding

But construction won’t start overnight—residential development may be 3+ years out, pending environmental and stormwater studies.

🌊 Why Are So Many Residents Pushing Back?

Opponents argue that New Smyrna Beach isn’t ready—not in infrastructure, not in stormwater management, and not in its current form of governance—to support this kind of scale.

Locals from neighborhoods like Ellison Acres say they’ve already experienced severe flooding during storms like Hurricane Ian. Others question whether State Road 44 can handle the traffic or if developers can truly protect wetlands and existing communities.

There’s also a strong emotional undercurrent: many feel the city is losing its small-town charm to unchecked growth.

🧭 What Happens Next?

Supporters of the project claim that “smart growth” is better than reactive sprawl, and point to the plan’s modern infrastructure, environmental safeguards, and economic benefits—like diversifying NSB’s tax base and attracting high-paying jobs.

Opponents are skeptical, and many aren’t done fighting. Even though the PUD was approved, there may still be legal or procedural hurdles, especially around environmental studies and permitting.

🤔 What Are Your Thoughts?

This vote could define New Smyrna Beach’s identity for generations. Will Deering Park be a model of modern growth and economic opportunity—or a costly, sprawling experiment that overwhelms our town?

I’d love to hear what you think.
Are you for or against the project? Do you think this was the right time—or the wrong direction?

👋 Stay Informed and Local

As a lifelong NSB resident and local REALTOR®, I believe staying informed is the first step to protecting your investment, your community, and your quality of life.

If you want updates like this, insight into how local development might impact property values, or help navigating your own real estate goals—reach out anytime.

Uncategorized • April 18, 2025

⛳ Top 5 Golf Communities to Buy a Home in Volusia County, FL (2025 Update)

by Ryan Tesnow

⛳ Top 5 Golf Communities to Buy a Home in Volusia County, FL (2025 Update)

If waking up to perfectly manicured fairways, relaxing in a private clubhouse, or driving your golf cart to dinner sounds like your kind of retirement (or semi-retirement), then you’re in the right place. Volusia County is home to some of the best golf course communities in Florida—and these aren’t just for retirees. Whether you’re a full-time player or just love the serenity of living on the greens, this list covers golf communities where you can own a home and enjoy a lifestyle upgrade.

Here are the Top 5 Golf Communities in Volusia County for 2025, with a focus on homeownership, amenities, and location.

1. 🏌️‍♂️ Plantation Bay Golf & Country Club – Ormond Beach

Plantation Bay is the ultimate golf and country club lifestyle in Volusia County. With 45 holes of championship golf, this non-age-restricted gated community offers luxury, exclusivity, and a vibrant social scene.

Homes For Sale: Custom estates, golf villas, and single-family homes from the $400s to $1M+
Golf Details: 45 holes across 3 courses, membership optional, golf academy on site
Amenities: Two clubhouses, fitness center, spa, pool, pickleball, tennis, walking trails
Best For: Golfers who want upscale living, gated security, and a variety of social clubs

📍 Conveniently located near Ormond Beach, I-95, and Flagler beaches.

2. 🏡 Venetian Bay – New Smyrna Beach

Venetian Bay isn’t just one of the top golf communities—it’s a full lifestyle destination. With an 18-hole championship course and a town center featuring restaurants and shops, it’s ideal for active buyers of all ages.

Homes For Sale: Condos, townhomes, and single-family homes from the $350s to over $1M
Golf Details: Public course, practice range, clubhouse with dining
Amenities: Fitness center, walking/biking trails, spa, pool, on-site restaurants and coffee shop
Best For: Buyers seeking golf course views with coastal charm and convenience

📍 Minutes to downtown NSB and beachside Flagler Ave.

3. 🏘 LPGA International – Daytona Beach

LPGA International offers resort-style living for golf lovers. Home to two championship golf courses, including one designed by Rees Jones, this community is known for its high-end homes and premier golf experience.

Homes For Sale: Townhomes and luxury homes from the $400s–$900K+
Golf Details: 36 holes, Rees Jones and Arthur Hills courses, membership optional
Amenities: Clubhouse, fitness center, pool, golf academy, dining, event spaces
Best For: Golfers who want prestige, performance-level courses, and central Daytona location

📍 Near Tanger Outlets, I-95, and just a short drive to the beach.

4. 🌴 Pelican Bay – Daytona Beach

Pelican Bay is a gated golf community that offers affordability, charm, and great fairway views. It’s perfect for buyers who want golf lifestyle without luxury price tags.

Homes For Sale: Single-family homes and townhomes from the mid $300s
Golf Details: Two 18-hole golf courses, driving range, optional membership
Amenities: Clubhouse, walking trails, water views, 24/7 guard-gated entry
Best For: Buyers looking for value, security, and relaxed golf living

📍 Close to Daytona Beach International Airport, I-4, and local shopping.

5. 🏠 Cypress Head – Port Orange

Cypress Head is a beautiful, quiet golf community tucked away in Port Orange. With tree-lined streets and scenic water views, this community combines golf with family-friendly vibes and retiree appeal alike.

Homes For Sale: Single-family homes and custom builds from the $400s–$700K+
Golf Details: 18-hole municipal course, practice facilities, pro shop
Amenities: Tennis courts, clubhouse, community pool, playgrounds, walking paths
Best For: Buyers who want golf, space, and a top-rated school district

📍 Located in Port Orange, close to shopping, healthcare, and just 15 minutes to the ocean.

🔑 Why Buy in a Golf Community?

✅ Beautifully maintained surroundings
✅ Great resale value
✅ Community pride and low turnover
✅ Built-in social activities and amenities
✅ Instant lifestyle upgrade

💬 Let’s Find Your Dream Home on the Green

I help clients across Volusia County buy and sell in Florida’s most desirable golf course communities. Whether you’re downsizing, upgrading, or relocating from out of state, I’ll guide you from start to closing with expert support and no pressure.

📞 Contact Ryan Tesnow, MPA

Realtor | Coldwell Banker
📍 394-B N. Causeway | New Smyrna Beach, FL, 32169
📱 Cell: (254) 206-5020
📞 Office: (386) 427-3602
🔍 Click Here To Search Homes

Housing Market • April 18, 2025

🏡 Top 6 Retirement Communities to Buy a Home in Volusia County, FL (2025 Update)

by Ryan Tesnow

Volusia County, Florida continues to shine as one of the top retirement destinations in the U.S. From resort-style amenities and championship golf to walkable neighborhoods and peaceful vibes, this area has everything today’s retirees are looking for. But not all communities are created equal—especially if you’re looking to buy a home (not rent or land lease).

Here’s your updated list of the top 6 retirement communities in Volusia County for 2025—ideal for retirees who want to own property and enjoy the Florida lifestyle.

🌴 Latitude Margaritaville Daytona Beach – Daytona Beach

A top-rated 55+ community that perfectly blends laid-back island living with upscale amenities, Latitude Margaritaville offers a one-of-a-kind retirement experience.

Age-Restricted: 55+
Homes For Sale: Single-family and villas, from the $300s–$800s
Amenities: Resort-style pool, private beach club, fitness center, live entertainment, pet spa, on-site dining and bar
Best For: Active adults who love music, socializing, and beach vibes

📍 Just minutes from Daytona Beach and close to medical centers, shopping, and I-95.

⛳ Plantation Bay Golf & Country Club – Ormond Beach

If you’re looking for luxury and golf without age restrictions, Plantation Bay is a premier choice. This private, gated community is perfect for retirees who want an upscale lifestyle.

Age-Restricted: No
Homes For Sale: Townhomes, custom estates, and single-family homes from the $400s–$1M+
Amenities: 45 holes of golf, two clubhouses, spa, fitness center, pools, tennis, pickleball, nature trails
Best For: Golf lovers and retirees looking for luxury, gated security, and vibrant social clubs

📍 Located in peaceful Ormond Beach, with quick access to Flagler Beach and I-95.

🏘 Cresswind at Victoria Gardens – DeLand

Located within the Victoria Park master-planned community, Cresswind offers gated 55+ living surrounded by nature and charm.

Age-Restricted: 55+
Homes For Sale: Single-family homes starting in the mid $300s
Amenities: Private clubhouse, pool, tennis and pickleball courts, fitness center, walking trails, full event calendar
Best For: Retirees seeking an active social life with low-maintenance homes

📍 Minutes from historic downtown DeLand and convenient to I-4 and Orlando attractions.

🌳 Countryside – Port Orange

Countryside is a favorite among locals and retirees alike. It’s not age-restricted, but it offers quiet streets, mature landscaping, and a friendly community.

Age-Restricted: No
Homes For Sale: Single-family homes, many remodeled; $350K–$600K+
Amenities: Community pool, tennis courts, clubhouse, walking paths
Best For: Buyers who want a peaceful, established neighborhood close to everything

📍 Centrally located in Port Orange near top-rated hospitals, shopping, restaurants, and just minutes from the beach.

🌼 SummerTree – Port Orange

Summer Tree makes the list because of its incredible value, well-maintained homes, and welcoming vibe for 55+ homeowners.

Age-Restricted: 55+
Homes For Sale: Single-family and attached villas from the 200s.
Amenities: Pool, fitness center, nature walks and full social calendar
Best For: Retirees seeking value and a quiet gated community

🚴‍♂️ Venetian Bay – New Smyrna Beach

Venetian Bay is a vibrant, master-planned community with a blend of young families, professionals, and retirees. It’s not age-restricted, but it’s a favorite for buyers 55+ who want golf, walkability, and coastal charm.

Age-Restricted: No
Homes For Sale: Townhomes to luxury estates; $350K–$1M+
Amenities: 18-hole golf course, spa, fitness center, community town center with shops & restaurants, pool, biking trails
Best For: Retirees who want to stay active, social, and close to the beach

📍 Just 10 minutes from Flagler Avenue and the white-sand beaches of New Smyrna.

💬 Ready to Retire in Paradise?

As a local expert and full-time Realtor in Volusia County, I help buyers like you find the perfect home that matches your lifestyle, goals, and budget. Whether you’re planning to retire in a few months or a few years, I’ll walk you through every step—no pressure, just real support.

📞 Contact Ryan Tesnow, MPA

Realtor | Coldwell Banker
📍 394-B N. Causeway | New Smyrna Beach, FL, 32169
📱 Cell: (254) 206-5020
📞 Office: (386) 427-3602
🔍 Click Here To Search Homes

Uncategorized • April 8, 2025

🌪️ Volusia County Seeks Public Input on $133M Hurricane Recovery Plan

by Ryan Tesnow

Volusia County is asking for community input as it finalizes a major recovery plan following the widespread damage caused by Hurricane Milton in October 2024. With $133.5 million in federal grant funding now available, the county is shaping a strategy to help residents rebuild stronger — and your voice matters.

🏗️ What Is the $133M For?

The funds come from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and are being managed through the county’s Transform386 program, which focuses on long-term disaster recovery and resilience.

According to Dona Butler, Director of the Office of Recovery and Resiliency, the money will be used to:

Restore critical infrastructure
Repair and replace damaged homes
Launch buyout and hazard mitigation programs
Provide federal matching funds for programs like Elevate Florida
Revitalize the local economy

📊 Where Will the Money Go?

Per the proposed Action Plan:

47% will be allocated to infrastructure
30% will go toward housing recovery
13% is reserved for disaster mitigation
10% will support planning and administration

Importantly, at least 70% of the total funds must benefit low-to-moderate-income households, in accordance with HUD guidelines.

📣 Why Public Feedback Matters

HUD requires that local governments gather community input before finalizing their recovery spending. Volusia County hosted a public hearing in March and is encouraging residents to submit comments on the plan before it is sent to HUD for final approval.

Dona Butler emphasized the importance of transparency and community involvement:

“While we use data and public meetings to guide our planning, we want to make sure residents have a clear understanding of what we’re doing — and a chance to weigh in.”

📅 Key Deadline

🗓️ Submit comments by:
Monday, April 14, 2025, at 5:00 PM

💻 How to submit:
Visit the Transform386 website or email: transform386@volusia.org

🔜 What’s Next?

Once public comments are reviewed, the Action Plan will go before the Volusia County Council in early May. If approved, the plan will be forwarded to HUD for final signoff — allowing implementation to begin.

Butler acknowledged that while the funding is substantial, delays in federal disbursement have caused understandable frustration:

“They’re excited about the money coming, but they’re also frustrated. It takes a long time to get the money from HUD here.”

Still, this funding marks a major step forward for rebuilding efforts and long-term resilience in Volusia County.

#VolusiaCounty #Transform386 #HurricaneRecovery #DisasterRelief #HUDFunding #CommunityResilience #VolusiaHousing #RebuildStronger #FloridaRecovery #LocalVoicesMatter

Uncategorized • April 7, 2025

🏗️ Amazon’s High-Tech Robotic Fulfillment Center Gets the Green Light in Daytona Beach

by Ryan Tesnow

Big news for Volusia County — Amazon’s massive new robotic fulfillment center in Daytona Beach has officially received its certificate of occupancy and is expected to launch operations later this year.

📍 A New Landmark in Logistics

Located at 2519 Bellevue Avenue, just south of the Daytona International Speedway, the new 2.8 million-square-foot, five-story facility is now the largest distribution center ever built in the county. The land was previously owned by NASCAR and was sold to Amazon by Texas-based Hillwood Communities.

👷 Jobs and Economic Impact

As part of an economic development incentive package, the City of Daytona Beach has agreed to provide $4 million in performance-based incentives — but only if Amazon delivers on its promise to create at least 1,000 jobs by 2028.

According to local leaders, hiring is expected to begin two to three months before the facility opens, likely in time for the holiday shopping season. In fact, Amazon has already posted job openings for positions such as:

Mechatronics & Robotics Technician
Reliability Engineering Lead
Equipment Reliability Specialist
EHS (Environmental Health & Safety) Specialist

These skilled roles reflect the high-tech, automated nature of the facility.

🚛 Four Facilities and Growing Workforce

This new fulfillment center will become Amazon’s fourth facility in Volusia County. The company already operates:

A 1.4 million-square-foot fulfillment center in Deltona
A nearly 1 million-square-foot “pre-first mile” facility across from it
A 66,000-square-foot last-mile delivery station on Mason Avenue in Daytona Beach

Combined, these operations could boost Amazon’s local workforce to nearly 3,000 employees.

🏢 A Sign of Long-Term Commitment

What makes this project even more significant is Amazon’s decision to buy the property outright for a record-setting $393 million — a rare move for the company, which typically leases its distribution centers. Local officials say this signals Amazon’s strong long-term commitment to Daytona Beach and the broader Volusia County region.

🎓 Career Growth & Local Partnerships

Daytona Beach Mayor Derrick Henry praised the development, calling it a “strong opportunity for employment and career advancement.” Amazon recently partnered with Daytona State College through its Career Choice Program, which offers:

Prepaid college tuition
Industry certifications
GED and ESL courses
Career advancement pathways for employees who’ve worked 90+ days

🌟 A Win for Daytona Beach

City officials and economic leaders agree: the Amazon fulfillment center is a major win for job creation, economic growth, and infrastructure investment in the heart of Central Florida. With high-tech operations and opportunities for career development, this project is more than a warehouse — it’s a long-term boost for the local economy.

#DaytonaBeach #AmazonJobs #VolusiaCounty #EconomicDevelopment #RoboticFulfillment #AmazonFlorida #CentralFloridaGrowth #DaytonaRealEstate #SupportLocalJobs #FutureOfWork

Housing Market • April 1, 2025

🏗️ Trump’s Proposed Tariffs: What Could They Mean for the Housing Market?

by Ryan Tesnow

As of April 1, 2025, the implementation of former President Donald Trump’s proposed tariffs has introduced new dynamics into the U.S. housing market. The latest measures include a 25% tariff on imports from Mexico and Canada, along with an increase from 10% to 20% on Chinese goods.

While reactions vary across industries, it’s important to take a balanced look at how these changes could impact the real estate and construction sectors — both now and in the long term.

📈 Impact on Construction Costs

One of the most immediate effects is the potential rise in construction expenses. The U.S. relies heavily on imported materials — with an estimated 70% of dimensional lumber and drywall gypsum coming from Canada and Mexico.

Early projections suggest these tariffs could add roughly $10,000 to the construction cost of the average home. This may place pressure on builders’ budgets, particularly for large-scale or affordable housing developments.

🏡 Home Affordability Concerns

As construction costs rise, home affordability may become more challenging — especially in areas already experiencing limited inventory and high demand. Builders may need to pass on some of the increased costs to buyers, which could result in higher sale prices, especially in new construction.

This could be particularly impactful for first-time homebuyers and those seeking entry-level homes.

📉 Market Volatility and Buyer Sentiment

Following the announcement, major financial indices responded with declines — the S&P 500 dropped 1.8%, while the Nasdaq-100 fell 2.6%. This kind of volatility can impact consumer confidence, potentially causing some buyers to pause purchasing decisions until the economic outlook becomes clearer.

🧱 Builder Sentiment and Industry Feedback

Many homebuilders have expressed concerns over increased material costs. The National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) noted that tariffs on core materials like lumber and steel can discourage new development, further tightening the housing supply. Ultimately, those costs are often passed to the consumer.

🔄 Could There Be Long-Term Benefits?

While short-term challenges are being discussed widely, it’s also worth considering potential long-term benefits of these policies:

A stronger domestic supply chain if U.S.-based manufacturing is encouraged
Job creation in building materials, infrastructure, and skilled trades
Reduced reliance on foreign suppliers, which could improve supply chain stability over time
Greater incentives for innovation and efficiency in construction methods

If the goal is to boost U.S. production and trade leverage, these tariffs could eventually restructure parts of the economy to become more self-sufficient and resilient.

🧭 Looking Ahead

The true impact of these tariffs on the housing market will take time to fully understand. Much depends on how long they remain in place, how trade partners respond, and how builders and suppliers adapt their strategies.

In the meantime, it’s crucial for industry professionals — from real estate agents to developers and investors — to stay informed and think ahead.

💬 What’s Your Take?
Do you see these tariffs as a necessary adjustment to protect U.S. industries, or as a potential setback for housing affordability?

Let’s connect and continue the conversation.

Ryan Tesnow, MPA
Realtor® | Coldwell Banker Envision Real Estate
📧 tesnow.ryan@gmail.com
📱 (254) 206-5020 | (386) 588-2834
🌐 realestate-withryan.com

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