The More the Merrier

By Penelope Geismar

As Jacksonville Homebuyer approaches its second anniversary, one thing has become clear-potential buyers as well as advertisers miss us when we're not around. So, because you asked for it, I'm happy to announce that beginning in 2005, we're changing our publishing schedule from quarterly to bimonthly.

Several compelling reasons are driving this decision. First and foremost, demand for the publication has been so strong that we need to increase our frequency just to keep up.

Real estate offices-who have adopted Jacksonville Homebuyer as their publication of choice for working with both local buyers and relocators-are constantly calling for replenished supplies. The region's top real estate professionals tell us that nothing helps them sell the area-and as a consequence sell homes-like Jacksonville Homebuyer.

In addition, demand has increased for out-of-market mailings to people who are planning a move. Our Web site, Florida-Homebuyer.com, is generating more and more inquiries and relocation requests to local chambers of commerce are also on the upswing. All of those inquiries receive a copy of Jacksonville Homebuyer as their introduction to the area.

Finally, the market has become so dynamic that it's necessary to increase our frequency to remain as timely as possible editorially. Jacksonville Homebuyer is the only real estate publication in Northeast Florida that's driven as much by content as by advertising. Consequently, our editors are clamoring to have more pages and more opportunities to report on trends impacting the market.

That enhanced timeliness will enhance not only the stories in the magazine but also the directories. We already run absolutely the most comprehensive new home development directory you'll find in print. Now that directory will be updated even more frequently to encompass new communities, new phases of existing communities and price changes.

Speaking of the directories, you'll notice a change this issue. Because the Northeast Florida condominium market has become red-hot, we've taken condominiums out of the main Community Directory and created a special section just for multifamily projects. That way, buyers seeking that ever-popular maintenance-free lifestyle can go directly to the developments that suit their needs.

And, as usual, we have a comprehensive public school directory with up-to-date FCAT scores and school grades as well as our usual assortment of newsy and entertaining departments.

In short, everything you need to know about buying a home in Northeast Florida is between these covers. Perhaps that's why Jacksonville Homebuyer won this year's Laurel Award as "Best Consumer Magazine." See if you agree-and I look forward to seeing even more of you in 2005.

Penelope Geismar

Publisher