Snapshots Tampa Bay

Lisa and Candace

Finding Your Home in Tampa Bay is about more than houses — it’s about building friendships, discovering community, and creating the perfect place to belong.

  1. FEB 8

    From Empty Lot To Dream Home: How True Custom Building Works

    A blank lot, an aging ranch, and a head full of ideas—where do you start without blowing the budget or your sanity? We sat down with Simon Amesbury from Alair Homes to map a path from “someday” to a keys-in-hand custom home that fits the way you actually live in Tampa Bay. No fluff, no guesswork—just a clear process that ties your vision to realistic numbers and a timeline you can track. We dig into the first decisions that matter: understanding zoning, setbacks, and FEMA rules; crafting a concept design that reflects your style and the site; and building a detailed estimate before you touch construction. Simon explains why true custom isn’t four cabinet choices, it’s informed freedom—making selections with guidance so each choice works with code, climate, and the trades who install it. You’ll hear how open-book software keeps schedules, invoices, selections, and photos at your fingertips, and why the right subcontractors for bespoke details are different from production crews built for repetition. If you’re weighing remodel versus teardown, we talk through the Tampa Bay realities. Many block homes from the 60s and 70s are structurally sound and worth reimagining—sometimes with a second story—rather than lifting old structures or moving away from the neighborhood you love. For buyers and agents, we cover using renderings to help people visualize what fits a lot within height limits, setbacks, and impervious area rules. And for sellers, that vision can unlock better marketing and stronger offers. By the end, you’ll know how to protect your budget, reduce stress, and keep design integrity from plan to punch list. Ready to turn your ideas into a buildable, beautiful plan? Follow the show, share this episode with a friend who’s dreaming about a custom home or remodel, and leave a review to tell us what you want to hear next. For more information about Alair Homes Tampa visit their website here. Not in the Tampa area visit Alair Homes here to find a location near you. Have questions about the area or suggestions on a topic, send us a text here! Thank you for tuning into "Snapshots Tampa Bay with Candace and Lisa." We're thrilled to share our insights and adventures with you. To keep the conversation going and explore more about Tampa Bay and Central Florida real estate, connect with us on social media and other platforms! Ways to Connect with Us: Visit our Linktree for all the links to our social media pages, latest episodes, and more information. We look forward to connecting with you and hearing your thoughts. Don’t forget to subscribe, so you never miss an episode. Until next time, keep loving and exploring Tampa Bay!

    29 min

  2. JAN 25

    Why Hiring an Agent Matters Even When Buying New Construction

    Want the perks of a brand-new home without the headaches? We unpack the real path to a smooth new construction purchase in Tampa Bay—how to capture builder incentives, pick the right lot, and protect your budget with smart inspections and savvy negotiation. We’ve toured the model homes, sat with site reps, and helped buyers win better packages by knowing when to push and when to lock things in. First, we separate myth from reality: the friendly salesperson in the model home works for the builder, not for you. That’s why representation matters. We explain how builder marketing budgets cover agent fees, why skipping an agent won’t lower your price, and how a pro can secure meaningful extras like closing cost credits, rate buydowns, appliance packages, and design studio upgrades. Then we walk through the sequence buyers face—choosing a floor plan, evaluating lot premiums for pond or conservation views, and timing selections to keep upgrade options open. We also get tactical about inspections. A pre‑drywall inspection catches electrical, plumbing, and framing issues before the walls close. A thorough final inspection and blue tape walkthrough lock in paint, trim, and drywall corrections before you sign. At the ten‑month mark, a final sweep helps you use that one‑year warranty while it still counts. Along the way, we share hard-won stories about catching out-of-square walls, aligning expectations with builder timelines, and doing extra diligence when a low sticker price looks too good to be true. Tampa Bay buyers will find neighborhood tips from Wesley Chapel and Lutz to Parrish, Palmetto, Ruskin, and Apollo Beach, where new construction is booming. If you’re weighing a builder’s preferred lender, we break down how those below‑market rates exist, what fees to compare, and how to bundle your asks for maximum value. Ready to buy smarter and move in with fewer surprises? Follow the show, share this with a friend who’s shopping new builds, and leave a quick review to tell us what you want us to explore next. Have questions about the area or suggestions on a topic, send us a text here! Thank you for tuning into "Snapshots Tampa Bay with Candace and Lisa." We're thrilled to share our insights and adventures with you. To keep the conversation going and explore more about Tampa Bay and Central Florida real estate, connect with us on social media and other platforms! Ways to Connect with Us: Visit our Linktree for all the links to our social media pages, latest episodes, and more information. We look forward to connecting with you and hearing your thoughts. Don’t forget to subscribe, so you never miss an episode. Until next time, keep loving and exploring Tampa Bay!

    15 min

  3. JAN 18

    Snow Shovels Are For Northerners, We Pack Beach Carts

    Sunshine feels different when the rest of the country is shoveling snow. We open the map to three Pinellas County beach experiences that locals actually use, comparing the relaxed, Old Florida charm of Madeira Beach near John’s Pass, the calm early-morning rhythm of Treasure Island, and the secluded, history-rich sprawl of Fort De Soto Park. Along the way we share the real logistics—parking that won’t ruin your day, when to arrive for quiet sand, where to grab a post-beach bite, and how to pack so you can stay light and linger longer. Madeira Beach gets our sunset vote although you can't go wrong anywhere along the Gulf Coast. Park once, roll a beach cart to the sand, and plan a simple picnic as the sky fades. John’s Pass adds personality with Hubbard’s Marina, casual breweries, fishing charters, and mom-and-pop shops that feel like classic Gulf Coast. Treasure Island rewards the early riser with soft sand and easy access to cold drinks or ice cream when you’re done. If you’re eyeing Siesta Key, we talk about when it’s worth it and how to avoid the notorious bridge traffic. Fort De Soto Park offers something rare so close to the city: space to breathe. Drive through Tierra Verde, pay a modest entry, and find lifeguarded swim areas, a dedicated dog beach, kayak launches, quiet stretches a short walk from the lot, and the 19th‑century fort that anchors the area in real history. It’s a pack-your-cooler, stay-all-day kind of place, where dolphins cruise the shallows and the only agenda is sand, sun, and sea. Whether you’re planning a winter getaway or scouting neighborhoods, you’ll walk away with local intel you can use: the best timing, gear to bring, hidden comforts nearby, and why a 60-degree day can deliver the best beach moments of the year. If you enjoy the show, hit subscribe, share it with a friend who needs salt air, and leave a quick review—what Gulf Coast spot should we explore next? Have questions about the area or suggestions on a topic, send us a text here! Thank you for tuning into "Snapshots Tampa Bay with Candace and Lisa." We're thrilled to share our insights and adventures with you. To keep the conversation going and explore more about Tampa Bay and Central Florida real estate, connect with us on social media and other platforms! Ways to Connect with Us: Visit our Linktree for all the links to our social media pages, latest episodes, and more information. We look forward to connecting with you and hearing your thoughts. Don’t forget to subscribe, so you never miss an episode. Until next time, keep loving and exploring Tampa Bay!

    18 min

  4. 12/14/2025

    From Sugar Cookies To Hockey: How We Celebrate The Holidays And Build Community

    Tampa Bay doesn’t get any snow, but the holiday spirit still shows up in big, joyful ways. We swap stories about the traditions that make December feel like home: sugar cookies baked with precision, a chaotic Christmas Eve Walmart run for secret stocking stuffers, and a pickup hockey morning that turns friends into family. Along the way we talk about blending cultures—Hanukkah with grandma, New Year’s memories from childhood, and the cozy sparkle of a Christmas tree—and how those layers create a season that feels rich and personal. We also dig into what it means to rebuild rituals after military moves. When you’re far from relatives, traditions become portable anchors: a recipe card that crosses state lines, a running gag gift that resurfaces each year, or ice time rented so the kids can chase pucks while parents sip coffee and catch up. Tampa Bay’s an unlikely winter sports haven, and we celebrate the region’s thriving hockey scene, from busy rinks to youth programs that keep the game growing. It’s proof you can find winter magic in a sunshine city. Most of all, we lean into joy over perfection. Opening stockings one at a time lets every laugh land. A casual skate reminds kids to love the game, not just train for it. And baking turns a crowded calendar into something warm and shared. Press play to pick up ideas you can borrow, adapt, or start fresh—then tell us your favorite tradition so we can try it next time. If the conversation warms your day, subscribe, share with a friend, and leave a quick review to help more Tampa Bay neighbors find the show. Have questions about the area or suggestions on a topic, send us a text here! Thank you for tuning into "Snapshots Tampa Bay with Candace and Lisa." We're thrilled to share our insights and adventures with you. To keep the conversation going and explore more about Tampa Bay and Central Florida real estate, connect with us on social media and other platforms! Ways to Connect with Us: Visit our Linktree for all the links to our social media pages, latest episodes, and more information. We look forward to connecting with you and hearing your thoughts. Don’t forget to subscribe, so you never miss an episode. Until next time, keep loving and exploring Tampa Bay!

    19 min

  5. 12/07/2025

    Meet David: From Fighter Jets To Florida Homes

    A new teammate with a fighter pilot’s focus can change how you see real estate. We’re thrilled to introduce David Paolillo, a former Air Force pilot and current commercial aviator, whose years of military moves, overseas living, and DIY remodels shaped a practical playbook for buying smart, selling confidently, and turning “ugly duckling” houses into equity. His story starts with constant relocation and ends with choosing Florida on his own terms—no orders, just intention—and the mindset that makes those decisions stick. We explore what most listings won’t show you: bones, neighborhoods, and budget-friendly upgrades that compound over time. David walks through the Phoenix property he almost skipped, how the right agent reframed its potential, and the step-by-step approach that doubled equity in four years. For Tampa Bay buyers and sellers, the takeaways are clear: prioritize structure and location, invest in high-impact updates, and use market context to make time work for you. We also push back on persistent myths around VA loans. Far from slow or risky, VA buyers are often the most organized and motivated clients in the market. With accurate expectations and a lender who knows the process, VA financing can move fast and clean—great news for sellers chasing certainty. Add modern tools like high-definition video tours and live neighborhood walkthroughs, and long-distance or overseas purchases become not only possible but efficient. Mindset is the throughline. From the cockpit to the closing table, staying ahead of the deal matters: prepare early, solve the closest problem first, and keep your cool when stakes run high. We share negotiation tips, inspection strategies, and ways to protect your pace, whether you’re relocating under pressure or choosing a forever home in Tampa Bay. If you’re ready to spot value others miss, this conversation gives you the frameworks to act with confidence. If this episode sparks ideas or helps reframe your next move, follow the show, share it with a friend, and drop us a review with your biggest takeaway. Your feedback helps us bring more expert voices and sharper insights to your feed. Have questions about the area or suggestions on a topic, send us a text here! Thank you for tuning into "Snapshots Tampa Bay with Candace and Lisa." We're thrilled to share our insights and adventures with you. To keep the conversation going and explore more about Tampa Bay and Central Florida real estate, connect with us on social media and other platforms! Ways to Connect with Us: Visit our Linktree for all the links to our social media pages, latest episodes, and more information. We look forward to connecting with you and hearing your thoughts. Don’t forget to subscribe, so you never miss an episode. Until next time, keep loving and exploring Tampa Bay!

    19 min

  6. 11/30/2025

    What If You Outlive Your Money? Planning Today Prevents Probate And Panic Tomorrow.

    Ever wonder what actually happens to your home, your care, and your savings if life throws a curveball before your will is even read? We brought in elder law attorney Jon Kinsella to walk us through the real world playbook: how to plan for long term care, keep control of your house, and avoid preventable court delays that drain time and money. We start by drawing a clear line between traditional estate planning and elder law. Distribution after death matters, but so does the question few ask out loud: what if you outlive your money? Jon explains the Florida friendly tools that balance control with protection, including the enhanced life estate (Lady Bird) deed. You’ll hear why it lets an owner keep full authority to sell during life while ensuring the property transfers automatically at death, often bypassing probate and preserving homestead benefits when used correctly. For families juggling real estate decisions, that difference can be the gap between a smooth sale and months of costly limbo. From there, we get tactical. Turning 18? You need a durable power of attorney and a health care surrogate with HIPAA authorization so someone you trust can act and access information if needed. Bought a home, moved states, or had kids? Review wills and trusts every two to four years so your documents match your life. We also tackle the hard numbers on nursing care—often $13–14k per month—and how lawful Medicaid planning can protect a healthy spouse at home while securing needed care. Along the way, John demystifies probate, why it’s sometimes helpful, and how trustees can stay out of trouble with simple prep like dedicated trust bank accounts and organized records. If you want clarity instead of a crisis when a decision can’t wait, this conversation gives you the vocabulary and next steps to act with confidence. Share this with someone caring for aging parents, a new homeowner, or any 18 year old heading to college. Subscribe for more Tampa Bay stories and practical guides, and leave a review to tell us what planning topic you want us to cover next. For more information and resources related to this episode, visit hkhelderlaw.com to meet all your elder law needs. You can also contact them at (727) 240-2350 to schedule a free consultation! Have questions about the area or suggestions on a topic, send us a text here! Thank you for tuning into "Snapshots Tampa Bay with Candace and Lisa." We're thrilled to share our insights and adventures with you. To keep the conversation going and explore more about Tampa Bay and Central Florida real estate, connect with us on social media and other platforms! Ways to Connect with Us: Visit our Linktree for all the links to our social media pages, latest episodes, and more information. We look forward to connecting with you and hearing your thoughts. Don’t forget to subscribe, so you never miss an episode. Until next time, keep loving and exploring Tampa Bay!

    23 min

  7. 11/23/2025

    Thanksgiving Traditions, Football Rivalries, And Pie

    The season feels different when you build it on purpose. We open the door to our Thanksgiving world—where a birthday-first rule delays the decorations, a kid flies home to hang familiar ornaments, and a fragile century-old heirloom claims the center of the tree. It’s memory as décor, a weekend where rituals do the real work of slowing life down. From there, we pass plates and swap stories. We talk about growing up with packed houses and football rivalries humming in the background, and how retail years rewired our calendars, pushing us toward earlier lights and simpler expectations. The kitchen becomes a family archive: grandmother’s stuffing from scratch, sweet potatoes crowned with marshmallows, brisket joining the lineup, and cinnamon rolls warming parade morning while the Rockettes kick off the day. Friends blend into family at our table—people with holiday birthdays, neighbors who became regulars—reminding us that hospitality is less about perfect menus and more about open chairs. We also share what this season taught us: skip the stampede, keep your patience, and choose grace for the people working the busiest shifts. And yes, we tackle the most passionate debate on the table—cranberry sauce with the can’s iconic lines or the bright pop of homemade, sometimes with orange or a hint of heat. Our take: let both exist. Traditions evolve when life changes, and that’s the beauty of them. Press play for a warm, practical guide to crafting meaning over noise, and then tell us the one ritual you won’t skip this year. If this conversation made you smile or sparked a new idea for your own traditions, subscribe, share with a friend who loves the holidays, and leave a quick review—what’s the dish or ritual that says “home” to you? Have questions about the area or suggestions on a topic, send us a text here! Thank you for tuning into "Snapshots Tampa Bay with Candace and Lisa." We're thrilled to share our insights and adventures with you. To keep the conversation going and explore more about Tampa Bay and Central Florida real estate, connect with us on social media and other platforms! Ways to Connect with Us: Visit our Linktree for all the links to our social media pages, latest episodes, and more information. We look forward to connecting with you and hearing your thoughts. Don’t forget to subscribe, so you never miss an episode. Until next time, keep loving and exploring Tampa Bay!

    15 min

  8. 11/16/2025

    From Clutter To Calm: How Caring Transitions Helps Families Downsize, Sell, And Start Fresh

    What if the hardest part of helping an aging parent wasn’t the stuff, but the stress? We sit down with Caring Transitions owners Billy and Jeff to unpack a smarter, kinder way to handle downsizing, estate cleanouts, and senior moves in the greater Tampa Bay area. From turning a “hoarder’s dream” into a market-ready listing to recovering value through online auctions, this conversation maps the steps families can take to save time, reduce costs, and protect what matters. We dig into the full-service approach: space planning that reimagines life in a 500–700 square foot apartment, digital inventories that strengthen insurance claims and simplify estates, and coordinated teams who clean, catalog, sell, donate, and prepare the home for photography without endless weekend trips or hotel stays. Billy and Jeff share how CTBids auctions can fund the process, how donations support local nonprofits and families in transition, and why even small items—like half-used cleaners—can make a real difference when placed in the right hands. You’ll also hear how a national franchise network creates continuity when loved ones live in different states, offering trusted referrals and a single point of contact from start to finish. In a world where scams increasingly target seniors, working with licensed, insured, background-checked professionals is more than convenience—it’s protection. If the holidays open a window for hard conversations, use this guide to talk about what to keep, what to sell, what to donate, and how to plan a move that preserves dignity and reduces friction for everyone involved. If you’re ready to simplify the transition and ensure a smooth process for your family, reach out to Billy or Jeff with Caring Transitions for personalized assistance: Contact Billy: wsigmund@caringtransitions.com | (813) 295-2950Contact Jeff: jnewcomb@caringtransitions.com | (727)458-5826  Get started today! Subscribe for more Tampa Bay stories that blend real estate, community resources, and practical support. Share this episode with someone facing a transition, and leave a review to help others find the help they need. Have questions about the area or suggestions on a topic, send us a text here! Thank you for tuning into "Snapshots Tampa Bay with Candace and Lisa." We're thrilled to share our insights and adventures with you. To keep the conversation going and explore more about Tampa Bay and Central Florida real estate, connect with us on social media and other platforms! Ways to Connect with Us: Visit our Linktree for all the links to our social media pages, latest episodes, and more information. We look forward to connecting with you and hearing your thoughts. Don’t forget to subscribe, so you never miss an episode. Until next time, keep loving and exploring Tampa Bay!

    19 min
See All (19)

5
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

Finding Your Home in Tampa Bay is about more than houses — it’s about building friendships, discovering community, and creating the perfect place to belong.

Information

  • Creator
    Lisa and Candace
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    19
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Snapshots Tampa Bay
  • Show Website
    Snapshots Tampa Bay