If Houses Were Ice Cream Flavors…

Summer in Jacksonville is all about sunshine, sunscreen, and sweet treats—and what better way to celebrate than by comparing our favorite home styles to everyone’s favorite frozen indulgence?

If houses were ice cream flavors,

here’s how they’d scoop out:

Craftsman Bungalow = Classic Vanilla Bean

Simple? Yes. Boring? Never. Just like a good vanilla bean, these homes are timeless, full of charm, and never go out of style. With tapered columns, wide front porches, and built-in character for days, they’re the kind of home that goes with everything—and everyone loves them.

Mid-Century Modern = Dark Chocolate with Sea Salt

Bold. Sleek. A little retro, a little daring. Mid-century homes serve up strong lines, open layouts, and floor-to-ceiling windows that bring the outdoors in. They’re not for everyone—but for those who get it? Total obsession.

 Historic Four-Square = Strawberry Shortcake

These beauties are sweet, structured, and full of vintage charm. Tall ceilings, detailed trim, and big front porches make these homes feel like summer nostalgia in the best way. Bonus: They photograph as well as they show.

 New Construction = Cookies & Cream

Polished, familiar, and a crowd-pleaser. New builds come with that perfect blend of neutral finishes, clean lines, and just the right sprinkle of personalization. You know what you’re getting—and it’s delicious.

 Florida Ranch = Lemon Sorbet

Bright, low-maintenance, and refreshingly simple. Florida ranch homes are the ultimateone-level living with room to spread out and breathe. Just like lemon sorbet, they’re easy on the palate—and perfect on a hot summer day.

 Coastal Cottage = Coconut Cream

Light, breezy, and beachy vibes all day. With shiplap walls, pastel colors, and a porch swing out front, this one’s basically a vacation in a waffle cone.

So, what flavor is your dream home? Whether you’re into the bold and modern or sweet and classic, Jacksonville has a scoop for every style.

Thinking about a move this summer? Let’s chat—We’ll bring the real estate insight if you bring the popsicles.

☀️ Best Summer Activities in Jacksonville, Florida

Because “too hot to do anything” is not a vibe we’re going with this year.

Summer in Jacksonville is all about sunshine, splash zones, and soaking in the good vibes—yes,

even when it’s 94° and your car feels like a toaster. Whether you’re wrangling kids, hosting out-

of-town guests, or just trying to avoid another weekend spent staring at your phone, here are our

favorite family-friendly, memory-making summer activities around JAX.

1. Park It Like It’s Hot

Jacksonville is PACKED with parks—seriously, we’ve got the largest urban park system in the

U.S. Some of our faves:

 Memorial Park in Riverside: river views + room to picnic + just steps from local eats.

 Losco Regional Park: hidden gem alert! Great splash pad, shaded trails, and a perfect

playground.

 South Beach Park & Sunshine Playground in Jax Beach: One of the best spots for

littles to run wild. Giant playground, splash pad, walking trails, and even pickleball

courts for grown-ups.

 BrewHound Dog Park + Bar (@brewhounddogparkbar): Technically a bar, but dogs

and kids are equally happy here. You're welcome.

2. Cool Off Without Leaving Town

Because not everyone has a beach house (sadly). Try these local water spots:

 Adventure Landing in Jacksonville Beach: Water slides, wave pool, lazy river = instant

win with the kids (and adults who secretly love water slides).

 Hanna Park Splash Pad: Small, affordable, and nestled in one of JAX’s best oceanfront

parks. Bring your beach gear and make a day of it.

 Fishweir Park in Avondale: Sweet little neighborhood splash zone. Perfect for little ones

and low-key afternoons.

3. Hiking… but make it Florida

Yes, we hike. No, it’s not all mountains and cliffs. Jacksonville has amazing woodsy trails and

shaded paths perfect for early morning exploring. Try:

 Tillie K. Fowler Park: Dog-friendly, kid-friendly, and full of wild beauty.

 Fort Caroline National Memorial: Historic, scenic, and sometimes full of turtles.

 UNF Nature Trails: Shady loops with boardwalks and bridges—bonus points if you spot

an armadillo.

4. Summer Events You Actually Want to Attend

Look out for:

 Moonlight Movies at Jax Beach (free!)

 Riverside Arts Market every Saturday under the bridge. Grab a popsicle from

@boldcitypops and shop local.

 Jumbo Shrimp Games: Affordable fun, fireworks, and ice cream in mini baseball

helmets.

 Summer concerts at Daily’s Place: Perfect for when the kids are with Grandma and you

remember how to be cool again.

5. Just Here for the Snacks? Respect.

Beat the heat with local treats like:

 Dreamette (@dreametteinc) in Murray Hill: Old-school soft serve magic.

 Mayday Ice Cream (@maydayicecream) in Jax Beach + Riverside: Sprinkles and air-

conditioning.

 Whit’s Frozen Custard (@whitsjax): Because custard counts as a summer activity,

right?

Real Estate Tie-In Time!

Summer is also a fantastic time to buy or sell a home

Spring into JAX: Explore the Charm of Jacksonville’s Favorite Neighborhoods

As the days get longer and the skies stay sunny, May might just be the sweetest time to explore Jacksonville. Whether you’re house hunting or just dreaming of your next move, this month is perfect for discovering the local charm tucked into every corner of the city. Here are some of our favorite neighborhoods to explore (and fall in love with) this spring:

San Marco in Bloom

This historic gem really comes alive in May. San Marco Square is perfect for an afternoon stroll—grab a coffee, browse local boutiques, or enjoy a glass of wine on a shady patio (we love Taverna and Town Hall for that spring breeze dining). With its walkable streets and Mediterranean-inspired architecture, it’s one of the most picturesque neighborhoods in JAX—and the real estate here? Charming bungalows and updated historic homes that move fast!

Riverside Arts Market Musts

Every Saturday, the Riverside Arts Market (RAM) is the place to be. Fresh produce, handmade goods, live music, and food trucks all tucked under the Fuller Warren Bridge—it’s a slice of local magic. Riverside itself is known for its beautiful oak-lined streets, historic homes, and proximity to the St. Johns River. If you're into craftsman-style homes and neighborhood energy, this is your spot.

Hidden Coffee Shops in Murray Hill

Murray Hill is a vibe. A little edgy, super local, and growing fast. This time of year, we’re loving the tucked-away coffee shops like The Flamingo (perfect for a slow morning) and Community Loaves (get the cinnamon roll, trust us). With a mix of bungalows and cool fixer-uppers, it’s a great neighborhood for first-time buyers or anyone who wants in on JAX’s creative scene.

Best Spots to Stroll With Your Pup in Avondale

Avondale = charm overload. Wide sidewalks, river views, and some of the most dog-friendly shops and cafes in town. BrewHound Dog Park + Bar is a local favorite for pup playdates, and Boone Park is a leafy spot for a morning walk. The housing here? Think historic homes with character for days and a strong sense of community.

Neptune Beach is Calling

OK, technically this one’s by the ocean—but Neptune Beach in May is chef’s kiss. Sunrise walks, weekend farmer’s markets, surf shops, and cozy neighborhood streets make it one of the most laid-back yet luxe areas to live. Dreaming of beachy bungalows or updated homes with walk-to-the-ocean perks? You’re not alone.

Whether you’re looking for a charming home in Avondale or a beachside escape in Neptune, our team at Root Realty is here to help you find your perfect fit. Ready to explore? Let’s chat.

No matter your style—historic, beachy, artsy, or foodie—Jacksonville has a neighborhood (or two) you’ll fall in love with this summer. So, grab your sunnies, leash up your pup, and hit the streets. Who knows? Your dream home might just be a stroll away.

5 Exciting Things Coming to JAX!

Spring is in full bloom, and Jacksonville is buzzing with exciting new projects and events! Whether you're a longtime local or new to the area, there's always something fresh and fun on the horizon. Here are five exciting things coming to JAX that you won’t want to miss!

1. Downtown’s Riverfront Plaza Gets a Major Upgrade 🌿🏙️

If you love waterfront views and lively outdoor spaces, get ready—Downtown Jacksonville’s Riverfront Plaza is getting a huge makeover! This project is part of the I Dig Jax initiative, bringing new green spaces, interactive art, and much more to the St. Johns River.

Imagine relaxing by the water, grabbing a bite at a riverside café, or enjoying local events—all in a stunning new park setting. It’s the perfect way to bring more energy to Downtown! (Source: Jacksonville.com)

2. A Brand-New Entrance (and More!) at the Jacksonville Zoo & Gardens 🦁🌿

The Jacksonville Zoo & Gardens is already one of the best spots in town, but it’s about to get even better! The zoo has announced plans for a brand-new entrance and a Manatee Critical Care Center, aimed at helping injured and sick Florida manatees recover. This expansion will not only make your next zoo visit more exciting, but it’ll also help protect one of Florida’s most beloved species. (Source: News4Jax)

3. The Block Jax: A Game-Changer for Food, Shopping & Entertainment 🍔🎶🛍️

Get ready for The Block Jax, a brand-new destination that’s set to bring together amazing food, retail, art, and live entertainment all in one spot! Whether you’re looking for a new favorite restaurant, unique local shops, or a fun night out, this is the place to be. Jacksonville’s food scene is already thriving, and The Block Jax is about to take it to the next level. (Source: TheBlockJax.com)

4. New Restaurants & Breweries Popping Up Everywhere 🍻🍽️

Jax’s food and drink scene keeps growing, and we’re here for it! From cozy cafes to trendy new breweries, there are plenty of delicious new spots opening across the city. One highly anticipated opening is Kairos Jax (@kairosjax), which will soon launch a new location, offering healthy and delicious food that locals already love. Check them out on Instagram: Kairos Jax. Whether you’re a foodie or just love discovering new places to eat and drink, this spring is bringing plenty of tasty surprises. Keep an eye out for new openings and let us know your favorites!

5. Warmer Weather Means More Outdoor Festivals & Events 🎶☀️

Spring in Jacksonville means outdoor fun is in full swing! Expect food festivals, live music, markets, and art shows popping up all over town. Whether you love browsing local vendors, dancing under the stars, or just soaking up the Florida sunshine, there’s something for everyone.

One event you won’t want to miss is The Run Home. This fun-filled race supports local housing initiatives, and it’s a great way to give back while getting active. Want to join? Sign up here: Run Home 5K Registration.

Root Realty’s annual 5K: The Run Home!

This fun-filled race supports local housing initiatives, and it’s a great way to give back while getting active. Want to join? Sign up here: Run Home 5K Registration. 🏃‍♀️🏡

Check local event calendars and get ready to enjoy all that Jax has to offer!

With so many exciting things happening, there’s never been a better time to explore Jacksonville! What are you most excited about? Drop a comment and let us know! 👇

#ILoveJax #JacksonvilleFL #DowntownJax #SupportLocal #JaxRealEstate #RootRealty

Fall in Love with Your Dream Home: Tips for Finding the Perfect Match This Spring

Spring is the busiest time of year for real estate, and if you’re thinking about buying or selling, February is the perfect time to start prepping! Just like dating, finding (or selling) the right home takes a little strategy, patience, and a whole lot of heart.

Here’s how to get ready for the season of fresh starts and new beginnings.

For Buyers: Get Ready to Swipe Right on Your Dream Home

1. Get Pre-Approved – A pre-approval isn’t just a love letter to sellers—it’s your golden ticket to making strong offers in a competitive market.

2. Define Your Must-Haves & Deal Breakers – Just like in dating, knowing what you want (and what you don’t) will save you time and heartache.

3. Start Touring Now – The best homes go fast! Begin your search early so you’re ready to pounce when the right one comes along.

4. Work with an Expert – A great Realtor (like any of us at Root Realty) can help you find hidden gems, negotiate like a pro, and avoid heartbreak.

For Sellers: Set the Stage for a Love-at-First-Sight Sale

1. Declutter & Deep Clean – Buyers need to see themselves in your home, not last year’s holiday decorations.

2. Make Small Fixes – That leaky faucet or scuffed baseboard? Tackle those little projects now to maximize your home’s value.

3. Boost Curb Appeal – First impressions matter! A fresh welcome mat, trimmed landscaping, and a pop of color on the front door can work wonders.

4. Think Like a Buyer – Put yourself in a buyer’s shoes and consider what would make the home more attractive to you. Fresh paint, inviting scents, and well-staged rooms can make all the difference.

5. Price it Right – Overpricing can scare off buyers, while the right price attracts the right match quickly.

By taking action now, you’ll be ahead of the curve when spring fever hits the market. Whether you’re ready to buy or sell, Root Realty is here to help you find your perfect match. Let’s make this spring the season you fall in love with your next home!

Thinking about making a move? Let’s chat! Contact Root Realty today.

Emily's Top 3 Jacksonville Faves

Sharing my Top 3 Happy Hour Spots with you!

1. Family Friendly: European Street- On a beautiful day there is nothing better than sitting outside enjoying the weather, a cold beer, + a delicious sandwich (looking at you international club). Happy hour starts at 2, and is all day on the weekends, with 2-for-1 beers. What makes it family friendly? The giant candy selection inside that we bribe our children with (hey, it works!). There are four locations to choose from, but you will most likely find us in Riverside on the patio!

2. Date Night: Grape + Grain- Whether you prefer a cocktail or a mocktail, they make the best! My husband and I try to sneak in a day date every now and then while the kids are at school (this is a no judgement zone, ok- sitters are expensive!) and G+G has a spectacular HH menu. $6 cocktails, $6 wines, and $1 off draft beer Sunday-Thursday from 2pm-7pm! They also double as a package store with craft beers, delicious wines, and a large selection of liquor so you can continue date night at home.

3. Shopping Break: The Marlin Bar- This new(ish) restaurant connected to Tommy Bahama is the perfect place to pop in when you need to refuel while shopping. Happy Hour is every day from 3-6 and includes $6 wines, $6 cocktails, $8 martinis, and $5 beer. Highly recommend enjoying HH with an ahi tuna poke bowl.

Cheers!