Which South Tampa neighborhoods are most in demand right now?
In general, all neighborhoods in South Tampa are in high demand, especially neighborhoods in the Plant High School district. Virginia Park, Hyde Park and Davis Island are also in high demand due to their close proximity to Bayshore.
What trends have you seen in the South Tampa real estate market lately?
As Tampa continues to grow, South Tampa becomes more and more desirable. The largest volume of sales are in the $400,000 to $600,000 range, but I’ve also seen my high-end listings that are in the $1 million to $2 million-plus range that have sold quickly, as there is less inventory with huge demand.
Tampa is a big city and a busy real estate market. What do you do differently from other agents to help get your clients the best results possible?
First and foremost, being a Realtor is my full-time job. When I get a listing, I canvass the surrounding neighborhood, going door-to-door with information with information about my listing. When I meet the neighbors I let them know about the listing, and I also ask them if they or any of their friends and family are in the market to buy or sell a home. This has allowed me to sell my listings quickly, as people in the neighborhood usually have friends or family that want to live in proximity to them. It has also allowed me to acquire multiple listings and pocket listings of people who want to sell but are not ready to list their homes yet. I also use social media to market each and every one of my listings with pictures, video and anecdotal information about the homes and where they’re located.
What wisdom would you pass on to agents just starting out in real estate?
If you’re not passionate about helping people and prepared to work long hours, don’t get into this business. However, if you’re driven by helping people, this can be a wonderful career opportunity. For people just starting out, I recommend they immerse themselves in daily reviewing and studying the multiple listings of all price ranges inside and outside their area. This requires reviewing all listings, no matter the company, online and visiting those listings in person, walking the homes and knowing the surrounding neighborhoods. I would also advise new agents to meet with their clients and take copious notes on details of the home they’re selling and the homes their client wants to purchase.
What’s your favorite place for a client or business lunch meeting?
My favorite place right now has to be On Swann, Ciccio’s or Bistro BT. They each have such a cool vibe that I normally have those three in rotation. At On Swann, I’m ordering the kale salad with salmon, and at Ciccio’s, the Mexican bowl. At Bistro BT, I’m ordering the salmon from their dinner menu. I can’t wait until Forbici Italian opens in Hyde Park Village!
Where do you head for dinner or drinks after work?
I love going to Remedy on the Riverwalk. It’s so relaxing and a great place to have a nice glass of wine. I love their oysters.
What is your favorite place for a night out with the girls?
My favorite place for a night out with the girls would have to be Haven, then walking to Bulla’s rooftop bar. I love these places because the crowd is so chill and both have an awesome atmosphere.
Where do you go for a weekend brunch?
A view of the water is a must. One of my favorite places is Oystercatchers. I’m ordering poached eggs, anything from their raw bar and fruit.
What is your favorite hidden gem restaurant in Tampa?
Hands down, my favorite hidden gem is Restaurant BT. It is so relaxing, and the entire ambiance is unlike anything I’ve ever seen. There’s a minimal amount of tables, which makes it that much more intimate.
What are your favorite boutiques or locally owned stores around town?
My favorite boutiques for clothes in town are Juxtapose in Hyde Park Village and Penelope T. I also love Silly Dilly’s at the Enchanted Spot!
Where do you like spending time outside in Tampa?
Whether I’m paddleboarding, doing yoga outside, walking on the Riverwalk or going to concerts at Curtis Hixon Park, I love being active in our city!
Find Erin on Instagram @erinbunkerealestate and Facebook
