Ocala's heat index keeps climbing, but so does the reason to get out of the house. World Equestrian Center kicks off a full week of jumping this weekend, downtown is hosting a variety show for a good cause, and Marion County's housing numbers just did something worth a second look. Let's get into it.

WEC Summer Series VII - Tuesday through Sunday, July 21-26, World Equestrian Center
A full week of CSI2*/Premier Hunter competition capped by Sunday's $50,000 Grand Prix. Admission and parking are free all week. Who it's for: Families. See the schedule

250 for 250 Variety Show - Friday, July 24, 7pm at the Marion Theatre
A '40s-style variety show benefiting Habitat for Humanity of Marion County, with proceeds going toward building homes for local families. Who it's for: Adults. Get tickets

Broken Arrow: A Tribute to Neil Young - Saturday, July 25, 7:30pm at the Reilly Arts Center
Electric Crazy Horse rockers and acoustic pedal-steel country rock, all in one night. Who it's for: Adults. Get tickets

A Heads-Up Before Your Next Rainbow Springs Trip

Rainbow Springs State Park now requires day-use reservations, and the parking lot is under renovation. If you've been going for years without planning ahead, this summer is the one to check first. Plan your visit

The Home Renovation Project That Became a Retirement Income Strategy

A Central Florida couple used a HECM line of credit to fund renovations while easing pressure on their portfolio, Social Security, and survivor income. Landmark Mortgage Planners walks through the real numbers behind their plan.

Key Takeaway: Home equity isn't just for emergencies. Used strategically, it can take pressure off your other retirement income sources. Read the case study

Humidity Is Its Own Health Hazard

Florida's heat gets the headlines, but the humidity that comes with it carries its own risks: disrupted sleep, joint swelling, skin issues, and added strain on your heart. AARP breaks down why humid heat hits differently.

Key Takeaway: If you're sleeping worse or feeling more swelling than usual this time of year, humidity may be the quiet culprit, not just the heat. Read more

Where Selling a Home Is Hardest Right Now

MarketWatch's latest look at the toughest markets to sell in shows Orlando homes sitting for 76 days on average, well above the national pace. Marion County tells a different story this week, more on that below.

Key Takeaway: Where a home sits for months, sellers lose leverage; where it moves in days, they keep it. It's worth knowing which kind of market you're in before you list. Read more

The Tax Deadline Vacation Rental Owners Can't Afford to Miss

Nancy breaks down the one-year window to claim bonus depreciation on a vacation rental, and why waiting a year or two can cost you the write-off entirely. Ask your CPA if a cost segregation study fits your situation, then watch the video.

Nancy Deichman
(352) 427-5704  |  [email protected]

$191,000 | Room to Breathe in Southwest Marion County
3BR / 2BA Ocala home on a quiet stretch, with the kind of space and privacy that's getting harder to find at this price. Listed by Teri McKeon. See the Listing

$239,900 | An Easy Commute in Northeast Ocala
3BR / 2BA home close to downtown, schools, and everything Ocala's northeast side has going for it. Listed by Marie Evans. Take a Look

$549,900 | Space and Privacy in Dunnellon
2BR / 2BA Dunnellon property with room to spread out, close to Rainbow Springs and built for a slower pace. Listed by Cory Freilich. Explore This Home

Here's how Marion County's activity this week compares to the same week last year.

Marion County sold more homes this week than the same week last year, even with fewer active listings on the market. Over the last 30 days, Marion County homes sold at a median price of $280,000. Fewer listings and steady sales is a good sign for sellers who price it right from day one.

Source: Marion County Stellar MLS. Weekly Active/Pending/Sold reflect listings that went active during the stated dates; median price reflects the trailing 30 days.

Overflow guests, a client between closings, or a crew in town for a project: sooner or later everyone needs a comfortable place to put someone up. Baymont's newly renovated Ocala suites include free breakfast, and the codes in the ad save 10 to 20 percent depending on length of stay. Call (352) 304-6026 or book online.

Providing the Ocala community with clear, data-driven home insights.