When you think of Florida you, no doubt, think of swimming pools. Although many places claim to have the best pool in the state, only one can claim to have the first spring-fed pool: DeBary Hall!
Unless you can swim in concrete, you can't swim in DeBary Hall's pool anymore since it has been filled
When you think of Florida you, no doubt, think of swimming pools. Although many places claim to have the best pool in the state, only one can claim to have the first spring-fed pool: DeBary Hall!
Unless you can swim in concrete, you can't swim in DeBary Hall's pool anymore since it has been filled. But, there are other things to do. DeBary boasts a population of 19,320 and sits near St. John's River. Its geography, like that of any true Florida city, is defined by water. The town officially became a city in 1993, but that's not even half, or a quarter, of the story.
Before you can hit the fairways of Glen Abbey Golf Club, you must learn how to paddle through the real estate market here. And don't try to explore St. John's River without a compass. There's too much danger, and it's not the manatee. In "The Wizard of Oz," there are lions and tigers and bears. In this waterway, there are gators, and they are hard to see.
Condos Are Not King
You would think that numerous golf courses, abundant wildlife and Florida would combine to equal condos and more condos. However, it's actually difficult to find condos for rent in DeBary. Houses have always held the king's chair; over 81 percent of homes are detached, one-unit houses. Next in line is mobile homes, which account for more than 13 percent of housing units. What this means for you is that you will have better success finding rental houses and mobile homes than any other type of housing. With that established, know that landing an apartment home for rent is still feasible at complexes like DeBary Villas Apartments and Saxon Cove Apartments.
Renting Difficulties
If you plan to stay in DeBary for a long time, consider purchasing a home. Over 87 percent of units here are owner-occupied. That is significantly higher than the national average and indicates you don't have much selection regarding places for rent. If the length of your stay is uncertain, renting is recommended and still very possible -- there are vacant houses and some apartments. If you want a one-bedroom apartment for rent, for example, you should be able to locate something right for you as long as you give yourself enough time and look during opportune moments. For DeBary, you need to give yourself a little more time than you would for cities like Jacksonville because there are simply fewer choices. Three weeks should be enough. Typically, openings exist at any point in the year, but the last months of the year have the most listings because many leases end when the year does.
Signing Day
Signing is not too stressful in DeBary. You most likely will deal with a landlord, and the process usually goes smoothly. You should have everything you need and more ready, though. Here's a list: a credit check, rental history, proof you can pay rent, first month's rent, applicable broker fees and deposit. Many landlords here don't request all that, but it's good to be prepared. Apartment complexes, however, generally will want all of that and may get a background report too.
Do you want a pad near Gemini Springs Park? Do you want something beside Konomac Lake? Or do you want a tree-house in the Black Bear Wilderness Area? There's also some spots near the town's center. Options vary, so it's important for you to know your choices.
City Center: This is the most convenient neighborhood. Highlights include Lake Marie, Zorba's Restaurant & Pizzeria and stores.
Konomac Lake: The neighborhood surrounding this lake is also near the iconic St. John's River. There's a lot of outdoor fun located in this area, if you're into water sports and recreation.
DeBary Plantation: Golf and a variety of housing define this area. Glen Abbey Golf Club and DeBary Golf & Country Club are both here. Most of the town's apartments are also here.
DeBary is rather spacious, which makes driving a necessary part of life. Many folks would swim if they could, but St. John's River covers only a certain part of town. The SunRail Commuter Rail has a station here, so getting in and out is easy. When free time arises, DeBary is much like the array of birds that call this place home: chirpy and active. Spots such as the Museum of Art, GENUINE Bistro & Lounge and state parks satisfy recreational needs. While DeBary built Florida's first spring-fed pool, swimming in pools is not where the soul of DeBary hangs. It's at St. John's River with the manatee.
