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Blog Articles

<p><img src="//cms.eatonrealty.com/sites/default/files/images/article/2022/11/brandon-florida.jpg" style="width:100%;height:auto;"/></p>
<p>Founded in 1857, Brandon is a suburb of Tampa that has become increasingly popular in recent years. There are a lot of <a href="/blog/buying/pros-cons-living-brandon-florida">advantages of living in Brandon</a>, such as a comparatively low cost of living, great <a href="https://www.hillsboroughschools.org">Hillsborough County public and private schools</a>, and ease of access to Tampa and St. Petersburg.</p>
<p>If you have decided to move to Brandon, your next step is to choose where exactly you want to live. Brandon has tons of great neighborhoods, including developments and gated communities. Below, we list ten of our favorite neighborhoods in Brandon for your consideration when buying or leasing a home.</p>
<p>At Eaton Realty, we know that choosing where to live is a big decision. Our full-service realty company works with <a href="/city/brandon">buyers</a>, <a href="/sell">sellers</a>, <a href="/rent/brandon">renters</a>, and <a href="/tampa-property-management">landlords</a> throughout the Tampa region. If you’re interested in settling or investing in Brandon, a member of our team can help you find the perfect property for your needs.</p>
<h2>Sterling Ranch</h2>
<p>In the southwest area of Brandon, Sterling Ranch is a community of single-family and attached homes. These houses are older, built from 1989 to 1997, and typically have 2 to 5 bedrooms and 2 to 3 bathrooms.</p>
<p>Sterling Ranch has relatively affordable housing, with a median sale price of $310,000. If you buy in this neighborhood, you may spend anywhere from $243,500 to $510,000. You should also factor in monthly association fees if you plan to live in Sterling Ranch.</p>
<p>This neighborhood has three public schools: Symmes Elementary, Mclane Middle, and Spoto High. In addition, there are numerous private schools in Brandon. It is a short drive from a shopping center and close to Tampa.</p>
<h2>Lumsden Reserve</h2>
<p>Located off of Lumsden Road, Lumsden Reserve is a gated community featuring reasonably-priced townhomes. Homes in this neighborhood were built between 2004 and 2006, and the community features mature landscaping.</p>
<p>The townhouses in Lumsden Reserve tend to be larger, although they are reasonably priced. In addition to the cost of your monthly mortgage payment, prospective buyers should budget for homeowners association (HOA) fees. There are rental units available in Lumsden Reserve.</p>
<p>Kids who live in Lumsden Reserve will attend Brooker Elementary, Burns Middle, and Bloomingdale High Schools. Prospective renters or buyers should know that the HOA imposes a maximum pet limit of 2 pets.</p>
<h2>Hidden Reserve</h2>
<p>This new development offers a sense of exclusivity and security. Hidden Reserve is a gated community with big properties and contemporary designs. The prices in this neighborhood range from $800,000 to $905,000, with a median sale price of $852,500.</p>
<p>Hidden Reserve offers some of the largest houses in Brandon. It is a great choice if you are interested in safety and larger properties. Kids in this neighborhood go to Kingswood Elementary, Rodgers Middle, and Bloomingdale High Schools.</p>
<h2>Bloomingdale Village</h2>
<p>Built around a lake, Bloomingdale Village is a development that started in 1997. Most homes in this neighborhood were built between 1997 and 2000 and are single-family homes. These houses tend to be larger, with 3 to 4 bedrooms and 2 to 4 bathrooms.</p>
<p>The median sale price for homes in Bloomingdale Village is $355,000, with prices ranging from $315,000 to $470,000. This makes Bloomingdale Village a reasonably affordable option for many families. However, because it is a development, buyers should know they will be responsible for HOA fees.</p>
<p>There are three schools associated with Bloomingdale Village: Brooker Elementary, Burns Middle, and Bloomingdale High School. All three schools are highly rated, which makes Bloomingdale Village a good choice for families with kids.</p>
<h2>Brandon Traces</h2>
<p>Between Broadway Avenue and Lakewood Drive, Brandon Traces is a good choice for anyone who wants a reasonably priced mid-sized home. The homes in this neighborhood tend to be older, built between 1987 and 1993. Most have 3 bedrooms and 2 to 3 bathrooms.</p>
<p>Brandon Traces is very affordable for the region. The median sale price is $292,500, with prices ranging from $254,900 to $325,000. It is served by Hillsborough County schools, including Schmidt Elementary, Mclane Middle and Armwood High Schools.</p>
<h2>Arbor Oaks</h2>
<p>Arbor Oaks is one of the pricier neighborhoods in Brandon, Fl. The homes in this gated community tend to be larger, with 4 to 6 bedrooms and 4 to 5 bathrooms, and 2 to 3 car garages. Taylor Morrison built all the neighborhood houses between 2015 and 2018.</p>
<p>The median sale price for homes in Arbor Oaks is $659,000, with prices ranging from $482,500 to $776,500. On top of the home's purchase price, homeowners in Arbor Oaks will be responsible for HOA fees.</p>
<p>The Hillsborough County school district serves Arbor Oaks. Kids here will attend Schmidt Elementary School, McLane Middle School, and Brandon High School. There are also numerous private school options in Brandon.</p>
<h2>Providence Lakes</h2>
<p>If you’re not interested in a single family home, then <a href="https://www.liveprovidencelakes.com">Providence Lakes</a> is a good option. This community features 1, 2, and 3-bedroom luxury apartments. These homes have upgraded features like granite counters, open floor plans, and plank hardwood flooring. There are also empty lots in the neighborhood that can be developed.</p>
<p>In addition to your own apartment, you will also have access to community amenities like a 24/7 fitness center, a spa, a pool, a dog wash station, a TV lounge, and a barbeque area near the pool. This apartment community allows you to reduce the time you spend taking care of your home while focusing on what is important to you (like relaxing after work!).</p>
<p>These apartments are for lease only, with rents ranging from $1,322 to $3,247 per month, depending on the floor plan. The complex is served by Mintz Elementary, Mclane Middle, and Riverview High Schools.</p>
<h2>Dominion</h2>
<p>Dominion is an older neighborhood on the north end of Brandon, with homes built between 1991 and 1996. Single-family houses in this neighborhood tend to be more affordable, with prices ranging from $371,000 to $390,000 (plus HOA fees). The median sale price for a home in Dominion is $380,500.</p>
<p>Most homes in Dominion have 3 to 4 bedrooms and two bathrooms. Dominion is served by Seffner Elementary School, Mann Middle School, and Brandon Middle School.</p>
<h2>Brandon Pointe</h2>
<p>Brandon Pointe is a relatively new community, with homes built between 2011 and 2015. These townhomes, condos, and apartments are mid-sized and typically have three bedrooms and two bathrooms. It is located just off Providence Lakes Boulevard.</p>
<p>The median home price in Brandon Pointe is $269,900, with prices ranging from $197,000 to $405,000. In addition to a mortgage, homeowners will be responsible for a monthly HOA fee.</p>
<p>If you purchase a home in Brandon Pointe, your kids will likely attend Mintz Elementary, Mclane Middle, and Spoto High Schools. There are also numerous private schools in the area, such as Brandon Academy.</p>
<h2>Alafia Estates</h2>
<p>This well-established community is located along the Alafia River and features both attached and single-family homes. The median sale price in Alafia Estates is $180,000, with prices ranging from $85,000 to $380,000. This makes this neighborhood an affordable choice for many individuals and families.</p>
<p>The homes in Alafia Estates tend to be older, built between 1970 and 2003, and most feature 2 to 4 bedrooms and 1 to 2 bathrooms.</p>
<p>Kids who live in Alafia Estates attend Kingswood Elementary School and Rodgers Middle School. They may go to Bloomingdale or Riverview High School.</p>
<h2>Find Your Next Home with Eaton Realty</h2>
<p>There are lots of good reasons to rent or buy a home in Brandon. On average, housing is less expensive here than in Tampa - and you have many choices regarding the size and style of home you want. Whether you’re interested in a single-family home, a townhouse, a condominium, or an apartment, we can help.</p>
<p>Based in Lithia, Eaton Realty represents buyers and renters throughout the region in their search for their dream home. Our realtors work hard to help our clients find the right home for them at a price that works for their budget. To learn more about how we can help you, fill out an <a href="/contact-us">online contact form</a> or give us a call at 813-672-8022.</p>


Neighborhood

The Best Neighborhoods in Brandon, Florida

<p><img alt="" src="//cms.eatonrealty.com/sites/default/files/images/article/2022/11/real-estate-inflation-hedge.jpg" style="width:100%;height:auto;" /></p>
<p>One of the biggest current news stories in the United States - and globally - is <a href="https://www.wsj.com/articles/inflation-report-leaves-fed-on-track-for-0-5-point-rate-rise-in-december-11668088481">inflation</a>. From Fed rate hikes to increases in household goods and services prices, inflation is hitting us all hard. Inflation has also triggered fears of a recession, leading to mass layoffs in previously booming industries like <a href="https://fortune.com/2022/11/03/tech-company-layoffs-are-a-recession-signal-apple-stripe-lyft-amazon-twitter/">tech</a>.</p>
<p>In this economy, your first instinct might be to go into austerity mode, spending as little as possible to ensure your financial stability. But it is a great time to invest in real estate if you can afford to do so. As opposed to stocks, bonds, and other retirement funds, investing in real estate can make inflation work for you, allowing you to increase your income as inflation rises.</p>
<p>At Eaton Realty, we understand that real estate can be a great investment in a tough economic climate, particularly over the long term. We represent both <a href="/buy/homes-for-sale">buyers</a> and <a href="/sell">sellers</a> of real estate in Hillsborough County, Florida, and offer <a href="/tampa-property-management">property management services</a> for landlords. If you’re interested in a more secure investment in the Tampa-St. Petersburg region, give us a call to learn more about our services.</p>
<h2>Understanding Inflation</h2>
<p>Inflation is commonly described as a decrease in the purchasing power of a dollar. The easiest way to view the effects of inflation is often over time; something might have cost 25 cents in 1960 but costs close to $2 now. In recent months, however, inflation has rapidly increased. Large increases in prices over a series of months have given us an even closer look at how inflation affects our daily lives. For example, just a few weeks ago, we learned that the price of <a href="https://www.cbsnews.com/news/halloween-candy-price-increase-skittles-reeses-snickers/">Halloween candy</a> had risen by 13% since 2021.</p>
<p>A combination of factors usually causes inflation. Our current inflation is primarily related to the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic due to supply chain issues that affected both production and delivery. The <a href="https://www.federalreserve.gov/econres/notes/feds-notes/the-effect-of-the-war-in-ukraine-on-global-activity-and-inflation-20220527.html">war in Ukraine</a> has also contributed significantly to global inflation. Other factors that lead to inflation include supply and demand, fiscal policy, manufacturing costs, and corporate policy.</p>
<p>A certain amount of inflation is expected. Typically, a 2% inflation rate is considered healthy. However, as of October 2022, inflation had risen to <a href="https://www.nbcnews.com/business/economy/us-inflation-rate-october-2022-economy-stands-now-rcna56272">7.7%</a>. The Federal Reserve has taken steps to combat inflation by raising the interest rate; the theory behind these rate hikes is that when it is more expensive to borrow money, consumer demand cools, and inflation slows.</p>
<p>When inflation rates are higher than the average return on investment and salary increases, Americans lose purchasing power. Even if your investment accounts are earning money, you can buy less with that money. Many financial experts believe that real estate is an effective way to hedge against the long-term effects of inflation.</p>
<h2>How Real Estate Can Serve as a Hedge Against Inflation</h2>
<p>The reason why real estate is considered a solid investment and a hedge against inflation is relatively simple. Over the long term, most real estate increases in value regardless of what the economy does. Even when real estate prices collapse (as they did during the Great Recession of 2008 - 2009), they tend to recover over time. Unlike stocks and bonds, the prices of which can fluctuate significantly based on the economy, real estate is typically a solid, stable investment.</p>
<p>When you have a fixed-interest-rate mortgage, the cost of your mortgage will remain the same even as interest rates increase due to inflation. This means that your equity in the home will increase while your costs to own the house are roughly the same.</p>
<p>A fixed-rate mortgage will also cost less over time. With this type of mortgage, your monthly payment is based on the dollar's value at the time of purchase. As inflation rises, you are effectively paying with “cheaper” dollars.</p>
<p>An example can help to illustrate how this works. If your mortgage payment is $1,500 per month, in today’s dollars, that $1,500 may buy 300 gallons of milk. In 20 years, your mortgage payment will still be $1,500, but because of inflation, that same amount of money may only buy 75 gallons of milk. During that period, your wages will likely increase, so $1,500 will be easier to pay.</p>
<p>If you have investment properties, renting out these homes can be very profitable. This is particularly true for properties with high turnover, such as multi-family dwellings. You can raise the rental price while your mortgage payments stay the same, which allows you to generate additional income to balance the rising inflation rate. Alternatively, if your lease agreements allow for it, you can <a href="/blog/property-management/florida-rent-increase-notice-what-landlords-need-know">increase the rent</a> for long-term tenants at the end of the lease term.</p>
<p>The price of rent tends to increase with inflation. Across the United States, the average rent has risen by as much as 30% from 2021 to 2022. In Tampa, <a href="/blog/property-management-renting/average-rent-tampa-prices-neighborhood">average rental prices</a> have increased by 20.5% over the past year - far beyond inflation. While taxes and insurance may also increase due to inflation, landlords still see increased profits due to the ability to raise rent prices.</p>
<p>The bottom line: buying real estate for yourself or as an investment can be a way to protect yourself financially. Even as inflation increases, the cost to own the property will stay the same with a fixed-price mortgage. At the same time, your equity in the property will increase.</p>
<h2>What to Know About Investing in Real Estate While Inflation Is High</h2>
<p>Real estate can be a hedge against inflation - but that isn’t always the case. If you buy when interest rates are incredibly high (as they currently are) or do not have a fixed-price mortgage, then it may actually be a poor financial decision to buy real estate as an inflation hedge.</p>
<p>You should consider other factors as well. Increases in rental prices and the value of real estate are based in part on supply and demand trends. Buying real estate as an inflation hedge may backfire unless you plan to hold onto the property long-term to ride out these trends.</p>
<p>Consider what is happening with short-term rentals. Many people bought rental properties during the pandemic to rent them out through sites like Airbnb. As demand for these properties has cratered (in part due to Airbnb rentals often being more expensive for guests than hotels), many are <a href="https://time.com/6223185/airbnbs-empty-short-term-rentals/">sitting empty</a>. In this situation, supply and demand trends may mean that people who bought properties to rent them out through Airbnb are actually losing money, even though inflation is high.</p>
<p>As with any investment, it is crucial to think carefully about your financial status and risk tolerance before buying real estate. A seasoned real estate company in Hillsborough County, Florida can help you make a smart decision based on your unique circumstances.</p>
<h2>Looking for a Home or Investment Property in Hillsborough County? We Can Help</h2>
<p>The real estate market is very different than it was one year ago. Nevertheless, investing in real estate is still a smart choice for many people. Whether you are buying a home for yourself or as an investment property, Eaton Realty can help.</p>
<p>Based in Lithia, we work with <a href="/buy">buyers</a>, <a href="/sell">sellers</a>, and <a href="/tampa-property-management">landlords</a>. We have years of experience in the Tampa housing market, which we use to help our clients make the best possible real estate investment. To learn more, fill out our <a href="/contact-us">online contact form</a> or call our office at 813-672-8022.</p>


Tampa Real Estate

Real Estate and Inflation: Is Real Estate an Inflation Hedge?

<p><img src="//cms.eatonrealty.com/sites/default/files/images/article/2022/11/rental-income-tax-rate.jpg" width="100%" height="auto"/></p>
<p>There are a lot of potential advantages to owning investment properties - particularly in the Tampa area, where you could rent to vacationers or even service members stationed at nearby <a href="/blog/renting/macdill-afb-housing">MacDill Air Force Base</a>. But owning a rental property can also be challenging, particularly when it comes to figuring out the financial aspects. This includes figuring out how you can afford to own multiple properties - and whether or not you have to pay taxes on your rental income.</p>
<p>The short answer is that rental income is taxable and will typically be taxed as ordinary income at the rate assigned to your current tax bracket. However, you can offset your rental income with deductions for the cost of maintaining your rental property and depreciation of the asset itself. Figuring out these rules can be complicated, so it is a good idea to work with a tax professional to ensure that you are following the law and getting the optimal breaks on your taxes.</p>
<p>At Eaton Realty, we work with investors and landlords to help them manage their rental properties. Whether you own commercial or residential real estate, our <a href="/tampa-property-management">property management services</a> will give you peace of mind, knowing that our team is taking care of all of the details, from handling maintenance calls to keeping accurate records. Call us today to learn more about how we can help you manage your investment properties in Hillsborough County, Florida.</p>
<h2>Will I Be Taxed on Income from My Rental Property?</h2>
<p>As a general rule, rental income is taxable. While there are some exceptions - such as renting out a residence for <a href="https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/p527.pdf">fewer than 15 days</a> in a year - most people who own investment properties will have to report any rent as income. The IRS defines rental income as any payment that you receive for the use or occupation of property that you own.</p>
<p>For tax purposes, it does not matter if you own many investment properties or just one rental property. Rental income is still taxable. For example, if you get married, and your spouse decides to rent out their home rather than sell it when they move into your house, they will be taxed on the rental income. In the same way, if you have purchased several properties over the years for the purpose of renting them out, you will have to pay taxes on any income.</p>
<p>As a landlord, you must report all income from your investment properties. However, this income can be offset by subtracting expenses that you incur to maintain your rental property. Rental income should be reported for the year in which it was paid and may include goods or services given by a tenant in exchange for rent.</p>
<p>While rental income is taxable, security deposits are not - at least not when you receive them. If you keep all or some part of the security deposit, however, then it becomes taxable income for the year that the lease ended. If you kept the deposit due to damage to your property, the cost of repairing the damage can be deducted from your income.</p>
<p>The rules surrounding rental income tax can be complicated. For example, if you own a vacation home, you can still use it yourself - but only for 14 days or 10% of the days that the unit is rented. If you exceed that amount, then you can’t deduct expenses beyond your rental income.</p>
<p>One of the keys to ensuring that you comply with all applicable tax laws is keeping careful records of the rent that you received and when you received it. At the same time, you should carefully track the expenses associated with getting your property ready to rent and maintaining it as a rental.</p>
<h2>How Is Rental Income Taxed?</h2>
<p>In Florida, there is no individual income tax. However, you will be required to pay a <a href="https://floridarevenue.com/forms_library/current/gt800016.pdf">sales and use tax</a>. The amount of sales and use tax you must pay on rental income depends on the type of property (commercial versus residential) and other factors.</p>
<p>In addition to sales and use taxes, you will need to pay federal income taxes. The tax rate for rental income will vary based on how you hold the property and your tax rate. Many people who own a single investment property do not form a limited liability company (LLC) or other business entity to manage it. As such, any rental income will be taxed as part of their personal income at the rate of their tax bracket.</p>
<p>For 2022, the federal income tax rate ranges from 10% for individuals making less than $10,275 per year ($20,550 for couples) to 37% for individuals making $539,900 ($647,850 for couples) each year. Your rental income is considered part of your annual income, so including it may bump you up to another tax bracket. Fortunately, it is possible to reduce your taxable rental income through deductions, as explained in greater detail below.</p>
<p>To report rental income as an individual (or couple), you will need to fill out <a href="https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-schedule-e-form-1040">Schedule E</a>, Supplemental Income and Loss. On Schedule E, you’ll be able to report both rental income and expenses. Schedule E is then filed with your Form 1040. On Schedule E, you should include the following:</p>
<ul>
<li>Rent received during the tax year</li>
<li>Any advance payments of rent</li>
<li>Fees received from tenants (such as late fees or pet fees)</li>
<li>Non-refundable security deposits that you keep</li>
<li>Goods or services in lieu of rent</li>
<li>Expenses paid by tenants to the landlord</li>
</ul>
<p>If you set up an LLC to own your rental properties, you will still pay taxes on the rental income because the LLC’s profits “pass through” to the owner. As such, you will pay income tax on your share of the profits of the LLC. The tax rate will depend on your tax bracket as an individual or as a couple.</p>
<p>There are other tax implications for different corporate forms, such as a sole proprietorship, corporation, or limited partnership. If you have questions about how your taxes will be affected by holding a property in a LLC, corporation, or other entity instead of owning it as an individual, you should consult with a tax professional.</p>
<h2>As a Landlord, What Expenses Can I Deduct?</h2>
<p>The money that you spend to get a property ready to be rented and to maintain a rental property is typically deductible. This is true even if a property is vacant as long as it is held out for rent. You should carefully document all rental expenses so that you have records if your deductions are challenged.</p>
<p>Deductible expenses may include a range of costs, including:</p>
<ul>
<li>Cleaning</li>
<li>Maintenance</li>
<li>Pest control</li>
<li>Landscaping or yard maintenance</li>
<li>Professional fees</li>
<li>Management fees</li>
<li>Travel expenses</li>
<li>Trash removal fees</li>
<li>Utilities</li>
<li>Advertising</li>
<li>Homeowner association dues or condo fees</li>
<li>Insurance premiums</li>
<li>Local property taxes</li>
<li>Mortgage interest</li>
<li>Equipment rental</li>
<li>Repairs</li>
<li>Supplies</li>
</ul>
<p>Notably, improvements are not a deductible expense. If you shell out cash to improve your investment property in some way - such as by fencing the yard - then you can deduct the expense over time through depreciation (as explained below). If you try to deduct an improvement, it may result in trouble with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).</p>
<p>Any expense that you deduct must be ordinary and necessary. It also cannot be extravagant. For example, if you own a rental property in FishHawk Ranch and live in New York, you can deduct your travel expenses if you travel to Florida toget the unit ready after a tenant vacates the premises. However, if you travel for a week and only spend a day or two getting the house, then you may not be able to deduct all of your travel expenses.</p>
<p>One major expense that you can deduct with rental properties is depreciation, which is taken over several years using <a href="https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/f4562.pdf">Form 4562</a>. Depreciation is the reduction in the value of an asset with the passage of time. To figure out depreciation, you will need to:</p>
<ol>
<li>Determine your cost basis (typically the amount that you paid for the property).</li>
<li>Allocate the cost by type of property (the land, the building itself, and any appliances or furniture included with the rental)</li>
<li>Calculate the depreciation for each type of property.</li>
</ol>
<p>Different types of property use various types of depreciation. It is calculated based on the useful life of the property. For residential rental properties, the “useful life” is 27.5 years, so depreciation will be calculated by dividing the property's value by 27.5.</p>
<p>Your accountant can work with you to help you understand how depreciation affects your rental property tax rate. The important thing to know is that depreciation is a type of deduction that allows you to reduce the amount of taxes that you owe.</p>
<p>Again, it is important to recognize that the laws surrounding the taxation of rental properties are complex. A skilled property management company can make sure that your records are in order so that your tax professional can take the necessary deductions and depreciation to reduce your taxable income for your rental properties.</p>
<h2>How Eaton Realty Can Help</h2>
<p>There is a lot that goes into being a successful real estate investor and landlord. In addition to <a href="/buy/homes-for-sale">choosing the right property</a>, you will need to <a href="/blog/property-management-renting/finding-right-tenant-importance-tenant-screening">find good tenants</a> and handle the day-to-day tasks associated with owning rental properties. The team at Eaton Realty is here to help you with every step of the process.</p>
<p>Based in Lithia, we work with buyers, sellers, renters, and landlords throughout the Tampa-St. Petersburg region. We have an in-depth understanding of the real estate market in the area, as well as the types of documentation that you will need to maximize your deductions - and minimize your taxes - for your rental income. To learn more about our property management services, fill out an <a href="/contact-us">online contact form</a> or give us a call at 813-592-8582.</p>
<p><em><strong>The tax information disclosed above does not constitute legal or financial advice. Use this information at your own discretion and consult a legal or financial professional for further guidance.</strong></em></p>


Rental Income Taxes

Rental Income Tax Rate: How Rental Income Is Taxed

<p><img alt="" src="//cms.eatonrealty.com/sites/default/files/images/article/2022/10/pros-and-cons-brandon.jpg" style="width:100%;height:auto;" /></p>
<p>If you’re moving to the Tampa Bay region, you might have a lot of questions about the best place to live. Even if you’re a long-time resident of the area, you might not know a lot about cities and neighborhoods outside of your own. For example: how much do you know about living in <a href="/city/brandon">Brandon, FL</a>?</p>
<p>Brandon is a community located just 13 miles from Tampa. It has a lot going for it, including great schools, a low cost of living, and plenty to do. However, costs are rising as more people flock to Tampa - and the commute to Tampa can be challenging.</p>
<p>At Eaton Realty, we specialize in real estate in and around Tampa. Our goal is to help each client get the property that meets their unique needs. If you are interested in moving to Brandon, reach out today to learn more about available homes to rent or buy.</p>
<h2>All about Brandon, Florida</h2>
<p>Located to the east of Tampa, Brandon is part of Hillsborough County and the greater Tampa-St. Petersburg region. According to the most recent data from the U.S. Census, Brandon is home to just under <a href="https://www.census.gov/quickfacts/fact/table/brandoncdpflorida/PST045221">115,000 people</a>.</p>
<p>Brandon was <a href="https://web.archive.org/web/20130203083543/http://www.hillsborough.communityatlas.usf.edu/upload/documents/HILLSBOROUGH_COUNTY_Historic_Resources_Excerpts_Brandon.pdf">founded</a> in 1857 when a man named John Brandon moved to the region from Mississippi with his wife and children. He purchased a total of 200 acres in the area and named it Brandon. Mr. Brandon operated a grist mill and general store on his property and later purchased an additional 500 acres on which to grow citrus. He later donated land for a school, church, and cemetery for the community.</p>
<p>Brandon continued to grow as the Florida Central and Peninsular Railroad came through the area. By 1922, the population of Brandon was 100 people. By the early 1960s, its population had exploded to 8,000, driven in part by the post-war baby boom. The community continued to grow with the building of the Brandon Community Hospital, the Center Place Fine Arts and Civic Association, and Hillsborough Community College.</p>
<p>Today, Brandon is considered a bedroom community of Tampa. Located just 13 miles away from downtown, it’s an easy commute down the crosstown (618) or I-4 for many residents of Brandon. <a href="/blog/renting/macdill-afb-housing">MacDill Air Force Base</a> (AFB) is just 21 miles away.</p>
<p>Brandon has a relatively young population, with just 13.1% over the age of 65 per census data. It is also diverse, with 27.8% of the population identifying as Latino and an additional 17.3% identifying as Black. Immigrants make up 17.1% of the community.</p>
<p>If you are considering moving to Brandon, you’ll need to know more than its history and demographics. Below, we explore the benefits and drawbacks of Brandon to help you make the best decision for yourself and your family about where to live in the Tampa region.</p>
<h2>Pros of Living in Brandon, FL</h2>
<p>There is a lot to like about living in Brandon. If living in a beautiful place with great weather in a low-cost-of-living area sounds good to you, then Brandon might be the right town for you.</p>
<h3>Low Cost of Living</h3>
<p>In Brandon, it is more than possible to purchase your dream home - and afford it! The median sale price for a home in Brandon was <a href="https://www.redfin.com/city/21605/FL/Brandon/housing-market">$360,000</a>, which is a significant increase from 2021. If these trends continue, then buying a home in Brandon might prove to be a great investment. For renters, the average cost to rent an apartment is $1,776 per month.</p>
<p>The low cost of living in Brandon is particularly stark when compared to nearby Tampa. The median listing home price in Tampa is <a href="https://www.realtor.com/realestateandhomes-search/Tampa_FL/overview">$430,000</a>. <a href="/blog/property-management-renting/average-rent-tampa-prices-neighborhood">Rent is also higher in Tampa</a>, at an average of $1,915 per month. This number may be higher depending on which neighborhood you choose.</p>
<p>The bottom line: your money goes further in Brandon than it does in many other communities in the region. If you want to live near Tampa without the high cost of city living, Brandon is a great choice.</p>
<h3>Temperate Weather</h3>
<p>A lot of people move to Florida for the weather, and for good reason. What’s not to like about relatively warm weather year-round? Temperatures in Brandon range from a low of 52 degrees in February to a high of 93 in August.</p>
<p>Summers in Brandon can be rainy as it is part of a subtropical zone. However, winters are mild and dry - which is a nice change for many people coming to Brandon from cold climates!</p>
<h3>Great Schools</h3>
<p>Brandon is part of the <a href="https://www.hillsboroughschools.org/">Hillsborough County School District</a>. There are great public schools in Brandon, including seven elementary schools (Brooker, Buckhorn, Kingswood, Limona, Schmid, Yates, and Mintz), three middle schools (Burns, McLane, and Mann), and one high school (Brandon High).</p>
<p>In addition to these public schools, there are also several private schools, including:</p>
<ul>
<li>Bell Shoals Baptist Academy</li>
<li>Brandon Academy Private School</li>
<li>Central Baptist School</li>
<li>Faith Baptist School</li>
<li>Nativity Catholic School</li>
<li>Immanuel Lutheran School</li>
<li>Providence Christian School</li>
</ul>
<p>The availability of both public and private schools means that you have a lot of choices when it comes to where your kids go to school. There are also three colleges in Brandon: Emmaus Baptist College, Hillsborough Community College, and Southern Technical College. It is also an easy commute to other universities, such as Southeastern Florida University and The University of Tampa.</p>
<h3>Close to Tampa</h3>
<p>Tampa is just 13 miles away from Brandon - a drive of about 20 minutes, depending on traffic. As a result, it is easy to live in Brandon and work in Tampa. It’s also a quick drive to access nightlife, restaurants, sporting events, and more in the city. If you are stationed at MacDill AFB, you can <a href="/blog/renting/macdill-afb-housing">live off-base</a> in Brandon and commute in about 30 minutes.</p>
<h3>Lots to Do</h3>
<p>Brandon is ideally located to take advantage of all that Southwest Florida offers. There are tons of nearby beaches and places for outdoor recreation, such as the Brandon Park &amp; Recreation Center and Paul Sanders Park. You can also take advantage of its great dining and shopping options, such as Beef O’Brady’s - a chain that started in Brandon.</p>
<p>There are also a lot of cultural opportunities in Brandon. The Brandon Regional Library is an incredible public library. It shares a building with Center Place Fine Arts and Civic Association.</p>
<p>If you want to branch out beyond Brandon, there is lots to do in Tampa, St. Petersburg, Bradenton, and Saratoga. You can check out the nightlife in Ybor City, go to a Bucs game, take a trip to Busch Gardens, or spend some time at the beach.</p>
<h3>Good Economy</h3>
<p>Because Brandon is so close to Tampa, it is often easy for residents to find jobs. According to Indeed.com, there are currently more than <a href="https://www.indeed.com/l-Tampa,-FL-jobs.html?vjk=724f8901aded7eb0">65,000</a> job openings in Tampa across a range of industries. There are also plenty of job options in Brandon itself - in addition to the potential to work remotely.</p>
<h2>Cons of Living in Brandon, FL</h2>
<p>Like any place, there are drawbacks to living in Brandon. Being a bedroom community can be great - but it often means rising costs and congestion. Here are some things you should take into account if you are thinking about living in Brandon.</p>
<h3>Heavy Traffic</h3>
<p>One of the biggest reasons for moving to Brandon is its closeness to Tampa. Yet this proximity is also a drawback, as more people choose to live in the suburbs and commute to the city. This can mean that a 13 mile drive to Tampa can take far longer than 21 minutes, depending on the time of day.</p>
<h3>Limited Public Transportation</h3>
<p>Brandon is served by the Hillsborough Area Regional Transit Authority. It has four local and three express bus lines. While having a bus option is good, it isn’t developed enough to allow most people to go without cars. There is also no direct shuttle to MacDill AFB. As a result, you will almost certainly need a vehicle if you want to live in Brandon - and you should be aware that your commute may be longer than anticipated.</p>
<h3>Weather</h3>
<p>In Brandon, the weather is both a pro AND a con. Yes, it is great to live in a place with warm weather year-round. But Brandon can also be incredibly hot and humid, especially in the summer.</p>
<p>There is also the reality of hurricanes. While Brandon escaped catastrophic damage from Hurricane Ian, there was still plenty of damage to homes and businesses. While Brandon isn’t unique in being vulnerable to hurricanes in the Tampa-St. Pete region, it is something to consider if you are worried about major weather events.</p>
<h3>Rising Home Prices</h3>
<p>As noted above, Brandon’s population is steadily increasing. Its housing prices are also going up substantially. From 2021 to 2022, the average sale price of a home in Brandon rose by 22%. While this is good news for current homeowners, it can make it harder to buy in Brandon if you have a smaller budget.</p>
<h2>Interested in Living in Brandon? Give Us a Call</h2>
<p>Brandon, Florida may not be for everyone - but it can be a great choice for anyone who wants to live close to a big city, beaches, and more. If you have read our list of pros and cons and have decided that Brandon is for you, we can help.</p>
<p>Based in nearby Lithia, Eaton Realty works with individuals and families as they seek to <a href="/buy">buy</a>, <a href="/sell">sell</a>, or <a href="/rentingsimplified">rent</a> a home. We have years of experience in the Brandon area, and put our knowledge to work to help our clients find the home that works for them. To learn more, fill out our <a href="/contact-us">online contact form</a> or give us a call at 813-669-4474 to talk to a team member.</p>


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