If you are searching through the lists of homes for sale in Tampa Bay FL, be aware that the term “Tampa Bay” does not apply to a single place. It is not some extended form of the name Tampa. While Tampa lies within the Tampa Bay region, it is not the entire region. The area is made up of approximately 2.9 million residents. This makes this Metropolitan area the second biggest in the state.
Tampa
Everyone has heard of Tampa, for many this is the place to look for the right homes for sale in Tampa Bay. It garners attention in the region for many reasons. It was one of the fastest growing cities in the state of Florida. It is home to a variety of cultural attractions. Among the city’s largest draws is Busch Gardens. Its botanical gardens and amusement rides are consistently popular among visitors.
Yet, Tampa has other attractions. Among the most popular is Ybor City. Here, you can find some of the vestiges of the early history of this city. It was once the home of Cuban and Spanish immigrants who came there to help Don Vincente Martinez Ybor to produce cigars during the cigar boom of the late 1800s to the early 1900s. Spanish style structures with wrought decorative iron are found on Main Street. The former cigar factories, workers’ cottages and warehouses have now been put to use as chic restaurants, clubs and shoppes.
Beach Communities
If you purchase any of the homes for sale in the region, you may well find yourself in a beach community. Among the favorites are:
- St. Petersburg – A product of land speculation, this city features broad avenues and one of the best and most comprehensive collections (outside of Spain) of the artist Salvador Dali
- Clearwater – It’s a year-round tourist destination with its crystal clear waters of Clearwater Beach.
- Dunedin – This town proudly celebrates its Scottish heritage every year with Highland Games
- Tarpon Springs – This is considered a center of Greek culture in Florida. It is also renowned for its Sponge Docks due to the recovery of the sponge beds.
- Bradenton – This is the seat of Manatee County with bridge links to Anna Maria Island
- Sarasota – This city has the reputation of being the cultural center of Florida.
Looking for homes for sale in Tampa Bay FL requires some understanding of the communities that comprise this metropolitan region. Before you make a decision to move here, you need to know what town or city will best suit your purpose. This will make adjustment easier for everyone involved.
