The “11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month" of 1918 signaled the end of World War I.
It's honored as Veterans Day to remember the men and women who have served, and continue to serve during times of war, conflict and peace.
Salute to all heroes, and thank you for your service.personnel who served the United States in all wars, particularly living veterans.
To those in uniform serving today and to those who have served in the past, we honor you today and every day.
For your service, your bravery and your hard work, we thank you.
Author: Shelly Trout
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In Honor of Heroes: Veterans Day!
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Field Manor’s Fall Festival
Field Manor’s Fall Festival is scheduled for November 14, 2026, from 1:00–6:00 PM at Field Manor in Merritt Island, Florida. The event offers a seasonal community outing at a historic 19th-century homestead, museum, and venue on the Indian River Lagoon.
Admission is $10 presale or $15 on the day of the event. Children 12 and under attend free, making it helpful to review the ticket details before planning your visit.
For people exploring Merritt Island, Florida, local events can provide a welcoming way to learn more about the area’s historic places, waterfront setting, and community calendar. Field Manor’s Fall Festival adds a distinctive destination to a day in the neighborhood.
Save the date for November 14, 2026, and plan to visit from 1:00–6:00 PM. Message me to talk about your move and learn more about Merritt Island, Florida.
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Iguana-Smart Outdoor Spaces
Iguanas can turn a patio or garden into a regular stop when food, shelter, or easy access is available. Start by inspecting the edges of your patio, low fencing, gates, and other openings where they may enter. Repairing gaps and adding sturdy barriers can help create a clearer boundary around your outdoor space.
Garden beds benefit from physical protection, especially around young plants and landscaping that may attract browsing. Mesh or other durable barriers can help separate plants from iguanas while preserving access for watering and routine care. Choose materials that fit securely and check them regularly for openings.
Outdoor cleanup also matters. Remove fallen fruit, store pet food indoors, and keep trash covered. These steps can reduce readily available food around the patio and make the area less inviting. For persistent activity or property-specific concerns, a qualified local wildlife professional can provide guidance.
Thoughtful outdoor maintenance can support a more enjoyable home environment in Merritt Island, Florida. If you are considering a move or want more home-care ideas, message me to talk about your next step.
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Where Florida Living Takes Off
Shelly Trout is a real estate agent based in Brevard County who brings personal experience and professional dedication to every client conversation. Her focus is helping people navigate the home buying and selling process in Merritt Island, Florida.
After overcoming breast cancer, Shelly emphasizes living boldly and supporting others through important real estate decisions. That perspective shapes her thoughtful approach to guiding clients as they consider their next move.
Shelly also enjoys saltwater, creating a personal connection to the coastal lifestyle around Merritt Island, Florida. Whether you are preparing to buy or sell, her experience and dedication can help you organize your next steps.
Message Shelly Trout to talk about your real estate goals in Merritt Island, Florida.
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Florida’s Proposed Homestead Tax Rollback
In ~3 weeks, Florida voters decide Question 3. Approval lifts the homestead exemption from $50K to $150K in 2027, then $250K in 2028.
The outgoing governor estimated the change could erase property taxes for ~60% of homeowners, but the measure needs ~60% voter approval to pass.
One gubernatorial candidate backed reform with a plan to replace lost local revenue, while the other opposed Question 3 and favored a first-time buyer exemption.
The benefit would apply only to permanent residents. Future Florida movers would wait 5 yr, while nonschool assessed-value growth stayed capped near ~5%.
Experts said buyers should weigh tax savings against possible service shifts, while one forecast estimated values could jump ~7%-9% if property taxes disappeared. -
Down Payment Assistance Programs in Florida 2026
Florida offers numerous down payment assistance (DPA) programs to help first-time homebuyers with upfront costs. Statewide options include zero-interest deferred loans and forgivable second mortgages, often requiring income limits and homebuyer education. Many counties and cities provide additional DPA programs with varying amounts and eligibility criteria. Despite recent price declines, affordability remains a challenge, but these programs can significantly reduce initial expenses for buyers.
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