From the Publisher

I moved to Jacksonville 15 years ago. I’m originally from Detroit, so you can imagine what an idyllic place Northeast Florida seemed to be. But I needed more than impressions. I needed information.

While different publications had bits and pieces of what I was seeking, there was no single publication that gave me the flavor of the area and its neighborhoods as well as the facts and figures.

Pretty much every issue of Florida Homebuyer Jacksonville serves that purpose. But once a year, we expand the data component somewhat to encompass all sorts of information about the region, some of it presented in handy tabular form.

This time around, we’re calling it Jax 101. So, particularly if planning a move, this issue is truly a keeper. Plus, we think you’ll enjoy the special issue of REMODEL Jacksonville, which spotlights the winners of the annual First Coast Remodelers Awards.

Also in this issue is our Where to Buy in ‘09 list. With the market in such a state of flux and with headlines sending conflicting signals, buyers are more cautious, and are looking for solid informa-tion about local communities most likely to hold their value over the long term.

Are the builders financially sound? Are the homes a good value for the money? Are the amenities top-notch? Is the location convenient? Are the schools good? Taking a lengthy list of criteria into account, we’ve identified communities that should top any potential homebuyer’s list of places to consider.

As usual, we offer the most comprehensive list of new-home communities in print as well as public and private school directories.

And if you still can’t find what you need, give me a call. After all, I’m almost a native.

Penelope Geismar
Publisher
penelopeg@florida-homebuyer.com