Volume 71 | 06.01.2026

James D. Hinson, P.A.

Broker Associate

Cell: 239.821.0704

Email: jameshinson14@gmail.com

Welcome to the Citrus & Marion County Insider

Thank you for subscribing. Our goal is to keep you connected to the heartbeat of our local communities while providing the data you need to navigate the ever-evolving real estate market. From local event highlights to expert market analysis, we are here to ensure you stay informed and ahead of the trends.

-James D. Hinson, P.A.

Broker Associate

LOCAL EVENTS

Friday Night Live

June 5, 2026 @ 7PM

Friday Night Live at the Orange Blossom Opry Led by Nashville Recording Artist Bobby Randall, the Famous OBO Band features Doug Stock, Randy Nichols, Keith Horne, Dave Jaquez, and newest member Kitt Lange.

Together, they deliver a powerhouse performance that blends Prime Country, Southern Rock, and the engaging energy that makes Friday Night Live a must-see every week.

Cost: $37 - $31 - $26 - $22

Orange Blossom Opry

16439 SE 138th Ter. Weirsdale, Florida 32195

Read more HERE

Free First Saturday

June 6, 2026 @ 10AM to 5PM

Visit the Appleton on May 2 for Free First Saturday! Admission to the museum is free from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Explore the permanent collection, special exhibitions, and enjoy family-friendly artmaking activities in the Artspace.

At 2 p.m. in the auditorium, we welcome back Dr. Wayne Wood for a talk on Kenneth Treister, a Florida architect and sculptor whose designs have been described as, “a cross between Frank Lloyd Wright, Antoni Gaudi, Auguste Rodin and the Mayans.” Free to attend.

Poppy’s Dogs and Barefoot Baker Sweets and Treats will be on-site throughout the day, along with CAMPUS USA Credit Union and LifeSouth Community Blood Centers.

Appleton Museum of Art

4333 E. Silver Springs Blvd. Ocala, Florida 34470

(352) 291-4455

Read more HERE

Trucks and Tunes

June 6, 2026 @ 6PM to 10PM

Enjoy an evening of music, dancing, and good food from 7 to 10 pm!

Live Music by PENTA

Food by Leilany's Flavor Fusion (from 6 pm)

Sweet Treats from Mr. B's Big Scoop

Drinks from The Town Square Kiosk

Free and open to the public (weather permitting). Coolers and well-behaved leashed pets are permitted outside at The Town Square.

For more information, visit www.circlesquarecommons.com.

*Schedule, performer(s), and food vendor(s) subject to change without notice.

Circle Square Commons

8405 SW 80th St. Ocala, Florida 34481

Read more HERE

World Oceans Day 2026

June 6, 2026 @ 10AM to 2PM

Clearwater Marine Aquarium and Keep Pinellas

Beautiful, in partnership with the Jane Goodall Institute’s Tampa Bay Roots & Shoots Alliance, are thrilled to sponsor an inspiring and educational World Oceans Day celebration on Saturday, June 6 from 10 a.m. to 2.pm. at Clearwater Marine Aquarium.

This FREE event will feature 50 exhibitors from around Tampa Bay and the nation who are committed to protecting our oceans and our environment. Guests of all ages can learn about these organizations’ missions, engage in fun hands-on activities, and discover what actions they can take to help support ocean conservation.

“World Oceans Day reminds us of the critical importance that the oceans and the environment play in our everyday lives, and how important it is for us to protect the ecosystem services they provide for our future generations,” said Patricia DePlasco, Executive Director of Keep Pinellas

Beautiful. “This celebratory event is the perfect opportunity for families and individuals to learn what they can do to make a difference, be inspired, and connect with environmental organizations that share their visions and goals.”

Event Highlights:

• Interactive exhibits and activities from organizations such as the Ocean Conservancy, Tampa Bay Watch, Sharks4Kids, Seaside Seabird Sanctuary, Sea Turtle Trackers, and many more.

• 20% discount on general admission to Clearwater Marine Aquarium for all World Oceans Day attendees.

• A Virtual Reality booth experience available on the 4th floor to enhance your aquarium visit.

• Opportunities to meet passionate environmental advocates and explore careers in marine science, conservation, and sustainability.

Read more HERE

OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES

Meet a Manatee

Welcome to the Manatee Capital of The World! Let an experienced guide take you through the crystal clear waters of our local springs where you can swim alongside these gentle giants!

Nowhere else will you find more manatees than here in Crystal River, Homosassa, and the waters of Florida’s Citrus County. Each winter between 500 and 1000 manatees are drawn here by three first magnitude spring systems, each with a constant temperature of 72° to 74° F (23° C). It is the most important natural warm water refuge for manatees along the Gulf Coast of Florida. Even in the warm summer months, up to 100 manatees remain here all year.  

It’s also one of only a few places in the world where you can have an the in-water experience of swimming with manatees in their own natural environment. It’s a privilege and responsibility we take seriously and our in-water guides are trained to make sure we and you treat this beloved threatened species with the utmost care and respect. All swimmers on manatee tours learn their “Manatee Manners” before ever getting in the water.

Read more HERE

REAL ESTATE NEWS

Florida lawmakers begin a special session today to consider Gov. Ron DeSantis' proposal to increase the homestead exemption and establish a path toward eliminating property taxes on primary residences.

During the special session, lawmakers will decide whether to place the amendment on the ballot for voter consideration. Constitutional amendments in Florida require at least 60% voter approval to pass.

DeSantis' plan, called "Save Our Homes from Excessive Property Taxes," includes:



• Homestead exemption: Creates a new homestead exemption of $150,000 in 2027, rising to $250,000 in 2028 and adjusted annually for inflation. The proposal also would require lawmakers to create a process allowing local governments to increase exemptions beyond those levels, potentially up to full elimination of homestead property taxes.
• Local government funding: Restricts remaining property tax revenue to core government services, including public safety, education, infrastructure and natural resources.
• Business property taxes: Lowers the maximum annual increase in assessed value on non-homesteaded properties from 10% to 5%. The proposal would not eliminate taxes on non-homesteaded properties such as rental homes, vacation properties, second homes and commercial real estate.
• New residents: Requires a waiting period of up to five years for certain new Florida residents to qualify for the enhanced homestead exemption.
• State funding: Creates a trust fund to help local governments maintain core services.

Read more HERE

Online listings shape buyer first impressions

A home’s first impression no longer begins at the curb. For many buyers, it starts on a phone or computer.

A recent Forbes article said while curb appeal still matters, a home’s online presentation creates the first impression more frequently and could determine whether a buyer chooses to see the property in person.

Experts told Forbes that the digital launch of a listing should be treated as part of the pricing and marketing strategy, not as an afterthought. High-quality photos, clear descriptions, accurate details and strong lead images can help a property stand out in a crowded search.

Read more HERE

Mortgage rates rise to highest level

in nine months

The average long-term U.S. mortgage rate rose again this week, reaching its highest level in nine months.

The benchmark 30-year fixed rate mortgage rate rose to 6.53% from 6.51% last week, mortgage buyer Freddie Mac said Thursday. Despite the latest increase, the average rate remains below 6.89%, where it was a year ago.

When mortgage rates rise they can add hundreds of dollars a month in costs for borrowers, reducing their purchasing power.

Rates have been mostly trending higher since the war with Iran began, disrupting the passage of tankers ferrying crude oil from the Persian Gulf to customers worldwide. That’s sent oil prices sharply higher – a key driver of inflation.

Mortgage rates are influenced by several factors, from the Federal Reserve’s interest rate policy decisions to bond market investors’ expectations for the economy and inflation. They generally follow the trajectory of the 10-year Treasury yield, which lenders use as a guide to pricing home loans.

Expectations of higher oil prices have pushed up long-term bond yields, causing mortgage rates to head higher.

Read more HERE

REAL ESTATE MARKET REPORT

Thinking of Selling? With inventory shifting and "legacy" properties in high demand, knowing your home's current value is more important than ever.

If you’re curious about your equity in today’s market, I’m always here to provide a custom, no-obligation valuation.

James Hinson Coastal & Luxury Real Estate Specialist

📞 239-821-0704 | 📧 jameshinson14@gmail.com

🌐 hinson-homes.com

Florida March 2026

2yr Sale Price Chart

Citrus County March 2026

2yr Sale Price Chart

Marion County March 2026

2yr Sale Price Chart

Crystal River March 2026

2yr Sale Price Chart

Black Diamond March 2026

2yr Sale Price Chart

FEATURED PROPERTIES

$299,000

11599 W Timberlane Dr

Homosassa, FL 34448

This renovated 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom residence in Riverhaven Village offers a functional open-concept floor plan with vaulted ceilings and a wood burning fireplace. The interior features new paint and wood plank vinyl flooring throughout the great room and bedrooms. The remodeled kitchen is equipped with new stone countertops, white cabinetry, and a stainless steel appliance suite. Both bathrooms include modern updates, with new cabinetry and stone countertops in the primary suite. The property is built for long-term reliability with a 5-year-old metal roof and new mechanical equipment, including a new water heater. Situated on a corner lot, the exterior features a fenced backyard, a long driveway, and new sod and landscaping. The location is within walking distance of Riverhaven Marina and Crumps Landing, and minutes from local landmarks like Florida Cracker Kitchen and The Freezer. Residents enjoy proximity to the Nature Coast's springs and trails, while remaining a comfortable drive from Orlando theme parks and two international airports. This move-in-ready home is an exceptional opportunity in the Homosassa market.

Read more HERE

$289,500

2245 E Marcia St

Inverness, FL 34453

Located in the Celina Hills subdivision of Citrus Hills, this 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home offers the neighborhood’s established appeal without the high costs of mandatory social or golf memberships. Situated on a .50-acre lot, the property provides significant privacy and substantial outdoor space while maintaining low annual HOA fees. The interior features a spacious open floor plan designed for modern functionality and seamless flow between the living and dining areas. A standout feature is the glass-enclosed Florida room, providing 270 square feet of climate-controlled living space for year-round enjoyment and entertaining. The residence encompasses 1,644 square feet of living area with major mechanical updates recently completed for long-term peace of mind. The roof is newer and a new HVAC system was installed in 2022, ensuring modern efficiency and structural reliability. The home also includes an attached 2-car garage with ample room for vehicles or a workshop. Located only 10 minutes from Inverness and 15 minutes from Crystal River, this home is ideally located to maximize all of the outdoor activities the Nature Coast has to offer. With 75 and Veterans Parkway both only 20 minutes away you have quick access to all of Central Florida. From the World Equestrian Center and beautiful horse farms of Ocala to the theme parks of Orlando, all within a short car ride.

Read more HERE

$975,000

4559 W Dunklin St

Citrus Springs, FL 34433

This distinguished 10-acre estate, situated at the end of your own private drive, features 3,910 square feet of living space. The interior is an open concept floor plan anchored by an impressive floor-to-ceiling stone fireplace serving as the centerpiece for the primary living area. The versatile floor plan includes 4 bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms, supplemented by a professional executive office and a substantial bonus media/game room. Additionally, the home features an oversized laundry suite and a walk-in pantry. With the roof, HVAC systems, and water heater all being replaced in 2021, this home is well maintained and ready for you to make it your own.

Read more HERE

Click the property photos to see more

Thinking of Selling? With inventory shifting and "legacy" properties in high demand, knowing your home's current value is more important than ever.

If you’re curious about your equity in today’s market, I’m always here to provide a custom, no-obligation valuation.

James Hinson Coastal & Luxury Real Estate Specialist

📞 239-821-0704 | 📧 jameshinson14@gmail.com

🌐 hinson-homes.com

VENDOR GUIDE

My Vendor Guide is a comprehensive resource designed to connect you with trusted vendors for all your needs. Whether you’re looking for home improvement specialists or essential business vendors, this guide offers a curated list of professionals known for quality service and reliability. Each vendor is carefully selected and categorized to make it easy for you to find the right expert for your specific requirements. Click the picture or HERE to view now.

USEFUL LINKS

THANK YOU!