What’s New on I-4? As of late April 2025, a new congestion relief lane has opened in each direction of I-4 between US-27 and World Drive, covering a 6.1-mile stretch right through the heart of the ChampionsGate corridor. The Florida Department of Transportation fast-tracked this project, completing it a full 8 months early. This project is part of the ongoing effort to widen I-4 and ease bottlenecks caused by rapid residential and commercial growth in the area. Why This Matters to Local Residents & Investors If you live in Davenport, Haines City, or commute to Orlando, this stretch of road is probably part of your daily drive. These new lanes aim to reduce congestion and improve traffic flow—especially during peak hours when things can feel like a parking lot. For real estate investors and homeowners, improved infrastructure often leads to higher property values and stronger rental demand. Less time stuck in traffic means happier tenants and easier property access. Is It Actually Working? That’s the big question—and we’d love to hear from you. Are the new I-4 lanes making your drive smoother, or does it still feel the same? We even filmed a short reel on it using drone footage to give you a bird’s-eye view of the changes. https://www.instagram.com/p/DJPyJXVPxYM/

Who We Are Lucas Oliveira, Lic Real Estate Broker and Co-Founder, has lived in Central Florida since 2003 and launched his real estate career in 2016 after graduating from UCF. He became a licensed broker in 2021 and is fluent in English and Portuguese and conversational in Spanish. Lucas specializes in working with overseas and out-of-state investors, especially in Brazil and Latin America. Trish Hohn, Co-Founder and Property Manager, moved to Polk County from Australia in 2015. Since 2019, she’s focused on maintenance coordination and became a licensed real estate agent in 2021. Trish also owns a successful maintenance company, giving her unique insight into what it takes to keep rental homes in top shape. Together, we bring a full-time, hands-on approach to property management that’s rare in the Florida market. What We Do Differently We started Haines and Haven Residential because too many management companies treat this work as a side gig—or don’t do it thoroughly. Our mission is simple: Keep homes well-maintained. Place responsible tenants who pay on time. Support investors with clarity, communication, and results. We treat every property like it’s our own, and every client—whether in Florida or overseas—gets our full attention. International Clients Welcome We’ve managed homes for clients in Brazil, China, Canada, the UK, and across the U.S. We understand the concerns international owners face: time zones, legal processes, cultural differences, and trust. That’s where our background makes a difference. Lucas is the son of immigrants. Trish is an immigrant herself. We’ve been on the other side of the paperwork and understand what it’s like to feel unsure about a new system. That perspective helps us make the process smoother and more accessible for our clients abroad. Let’s Work Together! If you’re looking for a reliable, multilingual property management team in Florida, reach out today. Whether you're across the globe or just across the county line, we’re ready to help.

Bojangles Coming to Davenport If you're a fan of Southern-style fried chicken and biscuits, you're in for a treat. Bojangles is coming to Davenport, bringing its famous breakfast menu and bold flavors to the area. For years, residents have had to drive to other cities to get their fix, but that’s about to change. The new Bojangles location is part of a broader wave of commercial development along US-27 and Posner Blvd, signaling the city’s increasing viability as a dining and retail hub. This isn’t just about food—it’s about lifestyle convenience, job creation, and community gathering spaces. Polk State College Expands in Northeast Polk One of the most exciting educational developments in the region is Polk State College’s investment in a brand-new campus in Northeast Polk County, right in the heart of the Four Corners area near Davenport. This campus will give local students access to quality higher education without needing to commute far, and it strengthens the talent pipeline for local employers. Offering associate and bachelor’s degree programs, as well as workforce training, this new facility is expected to be a game changer for the region. For Davenport residents, it means greater opportunity, higher earning potential, and a stronger local economy. Ridge Technical College Boosts Career Readiness Ridge Technical College, long known for providing hands-on training for in-demand trades, continues to evolve. With a focus on fields like healthcare, HVAC, automotive, and digital design, Ridge is helping students gain real-world skills and enter the workforce quickly—without the burden of student loan debt. As more families move to Davenport and surrounding areas, the role of career and technical education is more important than ever. Ridge is filling a crucial gap, especially for those looking for affordable, practical alternatives to traditional four-year degrees. Why This Matters for Davenport Together, these three developments highlight a larger trend: Davenport is no longer just a bedroom community. It’s becoming a place where people can live, learn, work, and thrive—all within the same zip code. Whether you're a resident, a parent planning your child’s future, or an investor looking for growth markets, Davenport’s trajectory is one to watch. At Haines and Haven Residential, we’re proud to be part of this transformation, helping residents find homes in the heart of Polk County’s most promising neighborhoods.

A Shrine Built on Faith In the 1920s, a group of French Canadian Catholics, seeking a place of worship during their winter stays in Florida, built St. Anne’s Shrine. Inspired by the famous Grotto of Lourdes in France, they believed this location—with its rolling hills, tranquil lake, and serene surroundings—was the perfect place to honor St. Anne, the mother of the Virgin Mary. The shrine was named Ste. Anne des Lacs (St. Anne of the Lakes), reinforcing the connection between their faith and the natural beauty of the site. A Place of Pilgrimage For decades, St. Anne’s Shrine became a spiritual refuge. Every year on July 26th, the Feast of St. Anne, pilgrims gathered to pray, seeking healing and blessings. The site featured a stone grotto, a small chapel, and religious murals, serving as a place of devotion for both locals and seasonal visitors. The Decline and De-Sanctification By the 1960s, as the original community of French Canadian worshippers dwindled, the shrine fell into disuse. Without regular maintenance, nature began to reclaim the site. The Catholic Church eventually de-sanctified the shrine, removing its official religious status. The statues and religious symbols were taken away to prevent vandalism, and what was once a thriving pilgrimage site faded into history. What Remains Today Though the shrine is no longer an active place of worship, remnants of its past can still be found. The stone platform in the lake, the faint outlines of old paths, and scattered ruins remind visitors of its former significance. While much of its physical presence has disappeared, its spirit lingers—inviting those who visit to reflect on its history and the faith that built it. A Hidden Gem Worth Discovering For those who appreciate history, spirituality, or simply the beauty of forgotten places, St. Anne’s Shrine is a unique site to explore. It serves as a quiet reminder that some places, though no longer bustling with worshippers, still hold the echoes of devotion and the presence of something greater. Have you visited the remains of St. Anne’s Shrine?

A Grand Vision Built in 1926 during Florida’s great land boom, the Dixie WalesBilt Hotel was designed to be an upscale destination that would attract visitors and investors alike. The hotel was a project of the Walesbilt Corporation, which aimed to create a thriving commercial hub in Lake Wales. The Spanish Mediterranean-style building, standing at six stories, became the tallest structure in the city at the time and was celebrated for its elegance and sophistication. A Storied Past The hotel’s early years saw a steady stream of guests, businessmen, and socialites. However, like many real estate ventures of the 1920s, it faced challenges when the Florida land boom collapsed. Over the decades, the building changed ownership multiple times, serving various purposes, including as a retirement home and office space. Despite its ups and downs, the Dixie WalesBilt remained a recognizable landmark in downtown Lake Wales. The Present and Future Today, the Dixie WalesBilt Hotel is a subject of local interest and preservation efforts. Many in the community see its restoration as a potential catalyst for revitalizing downtown Lake Wales. While redevelopment plans have been proposed over the years, the future of this historic structure remains an open question. Whether it becomes a boutique hotel, an event space, or a cultural hub, its significance in the city’s history is undeniable. Why It Matters For property managers, real estate investors, and history enthusiasts alike, the Dixie WalesBilt Hotel represents more than just bricks and mortar—it embodies the spirit of Florida’s past and the possibilities of its future. It’s a reminder that buildings, like communities, have stories to tell, and their preservation can bring new life to the places we call home. At Haines & Haven Residential, we take pride in our knowledge of Central Florida’s history and its evolving real estate landscape. Whether you're looking to invest, relocate, or simply learn more about the communities we serve, we're here to help.

For breakfast lovers, this could be great news. IHOP, known for its signature pancakes, omelets, and all-day breakfast options, would be a welcome addition to the area. While we don’t have official confirmation yet, speculation has been fueled by ongoing commercial development in the area, making it a prime location for a popular chain like IHOP. Haines City residents have been vocal about wanting more dining options, and an IHOP would certainly help meet that demand. With the city’s population steadily increasing, new restaurants not only bring variety but also contribute to local job growth and economic development. Whether you're an early riser looking for a hearty breakfast or someone who enjoys pancakes at any hour, the idea of an IHOP in Haines City is exciting. As we wait for official announcements, we’ll be keeping an eye on any updates about this potential new addition to our growing community. Would you be excited to see an IHOP in Haines City? Let us know your thoughts!

Who Controls Development in Haines City? A common misconception is that Haines City has full control over whether new housing developments get approved. In reality, while the city can set zoning laws and building requirements, it cannot legally deny a development if it meets all established criteria. If the city were to reject a project that complies with local regulations, it could face lawsuits from developers. The real power over large-scale development decisions often lies at the state level, where policies are made that limit how much control local governments have. Developers frequently lobby state lawmakers to ensure regulations favor growth, making it easier to build new housing and infrastructure. Why Is Development Happening So Fast? Several factors contribute to the rapid growth in Polk County: High Demand for Housing: Florida continues to see population growth, and Polk County’s location between Orlando and Tampa makes it an attractive option for new residents. Pro-Growth State Policies: Florida has passed laws that limit local governments’ ability to slow down development, often favoring builders and large-scale projects. Developer Influence: Builders and real estate groups actively lobby state lawmakers to ensure policies make it easier to develop land quickly and efficiently. What Can Be Done to Manage Growth Responsibly? While local governments can’t outright stop development, they can take steps to ensure that growth happens in a way that benefits both new and existing residents. Some key areas where Haines City and Polk County could make improvements include: Expanding Roads & Infrastructure – Ensuring new developments contribute to road expansions and traffic management solutions. Protecting Water Resources – Polk County relies on an aquifer for drinking water, and increased development means more demand on this limited resource. Managing School Overcrowding – Many local schools are already at capacity, and rapid development adds more students to the system without always accounting for new schools or expansions. How Can Residents Make a Difference? If you’re concerned about overdevelopment, the best way to take action is to stay informed and involved in local and state decision-making processes. Here’s how: Attend Local Meetings – City council and county commission meetings often discuss zoning changes and development plans. Engage with State Representatives – Since many policies are made at the state level, contacting your local representatives can help push for smarter growth regulations. Advocate for Better Infrastructure Planning – Support initiatives that require developers to contribute more to roads, schools, and water management. Final Thoughts Haines City and Polk County are growing—there’s no denying that. But growth doesn’t have to come at the expense of quality of life. By advocating for smarter planning and responsible infrastructure development, residents can help shape a future where our communities remain livable, sustainable, and well-prepared for continued expansion. What are your thoughts on the rapid growth in Polk County? Share your opinions in the comments below!

Haines City is experiencing significant growth, and a new development is set to enhance the area’s appeal for residents, businesses, and investors alike. The upcoming Crossroads Village Center is a 120-acre mixed-use project that will be located at the intersection of U.S. 27 and Polk City Road. This development will bring much-needed retail, dining, housing, and hospitality options to the heart of Central Florida. One of the most exciting additions to this development is the introduction of a brand-new Target, providing convenient shopping options for residents and visitors. In addition to Target, the project will include multiple new restaurants and retail spaces, catering to the growing demand for dining and entertainment in the area. A hotel will also be part of the development, offering accommodations for travelers and boosting local tourism. Furthermore, new residential housing will be integrated into the project, providing more opportunities for individuals and families looking to settle in Haines City. The Crossroads Village Center is expected to be a game-changer for Haines City’s economy. With new businesses and amenities, the development will create jobs, increase property values, and enhance the overall quality of life for residents. As the city continues to expand, this project will play a key role in shaping its future and attracting more people to the area. For those considering investing in Haines City, now is the time to explore opportunities. The demand for housing and commercial properties is growing, and developments like Crossroads Village Center signal a strong and promising market. Whether you are looking to buy, sell, or invest, staying ahead of these changes can help you make informed real estate decisions. At Haines and Haven Residential, we specialize in helping homeowners, investors, and renters navigate the evolving real estate landscape. If you are interested in learning more about how this development could impact your real estate goals, we would love to assist you. For more information, contact us today at info@hainesandhaven.com or visit our website at www.hainesandhaven.com.

While a fence can offer benefits like security, privacy, and a pet-friendly environment, it also comes with costs, maintenance responsibilities, and potential HOA restrictions. Below, we’ll explore the pros and cons to help you determine if a fence is the right choice for your investment home. Reasons to Install a Fence 1. Liability & Safety for Homes with Pools If your rental property has a pool, installing a fence is not just a smart choice—it may also be a legal requirement. Many municipalities in Florida have laws mandating pool enclosures to prevent accidents, particularly involving children. A secure fence can reduce liability concerns and provide peace of mind for both landlords and tenants. 2. Security & Privacy A fence can enhance security by creating a barrier between the property and the outside world. This added privacy can make the home more appealing to tenants, particularly families who value a secure outdoor space for their children to play. 3. Pet-Friendly Advantage Renters with pets often seek properties with fenced yards, making your rental more attractive to a broader audience. Since pet-friendly rentals are in high demand, a fence could help reduce vacancy rates and encourage longer lease agreements from tenants who want a secure outdoor space for their animals. Reasons to Skip the Fence 1. Limited Return on Investment (ROI) While a fence can make a rental home more desirable, it typically does not allow landlords to charge significantly higher rent. Unlike kitchen upgrades or additional bedrooms, a fence rarely justifies a notable rent increase, meaning the cost of installation may not be recouped through higher rental income. 2. Maintenance Concerns Even if your lease states that tenants are not responsible for fence repairs, they will often expect it to be maintained. Over time, wood fences may rot, metal fences can rust, and vinyl fences may suffer storm damage. This creates an ongoing maintenance expense that may not be worth the initial investment. 3. Florida’s Harsh Weather Florida is no stranger to hurricanes, strong winds, and heavy rain. Fences can take a beating during storms, leading to costly repairs or replacements. If your rental is in an area prone to severe weather, installing a fence may add another item to your storm-preparation and post-storm repair list. 4. HOA & Zoning Restrictions Many homeowners’ associations (HOAs) have strict rules regarding fence height, material, and placement. Navigating these regulations can be time-consuming and may lead to additional expenses to ensure compliance. Even if your property isn’t in an HOA, local zoning laws may dictate what type of fencing is allowed. Final Thoughts Deciding whether to install a fence on your rental property depends on your goals, location, and budget. If security, privacy, and attracting pet owners are top priorities, a fence might be worth the investment. However, if the potential for increased rent is minimal and maintenance costs are a concern, it may be best to skip it. At Haines and Haven Residential, we help property owners make smart investment decisions to maximize their rental income while minimizing stress. If you have questions about managing your rental property, contact us today—we’re here to help!