Vero Beach: Your Sunshine Sojourn Awaits

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Vero Beach

HelloVero Beach is a video magazine containing information of interest to residents and visitors.

Summer Issue 2025 | ISSN: 3065-6958

Published by HelloNation, © All Rights Reserved

Your Sunshine Sojourn Awaits

Vero Beach, Florida, offers a captivating blend of seaside splendor and a vibrant community spirit. Located along the Atlantic shore, this charming town invites residents and visitors alike to indulge in its natural beauty and warm

climate year-round. From sun-dappled beaches to picturesque parks, Vero Beach provides an enticing escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Strolling through Vero Beach, you'll find an array of delightful boutiques and cozy cafés, showcasing the town's unique character and charm. The local culture is rich and diverse, with a thriving arts scene, including galleries and theatres that resonate with creativity and inspiration.

Vero Beach is more than just a destination; it's a community that warmly welcomes outsiders to become insiders. Life here is characterized by a laid-back atmosphere infused with opportunities for adventure. Explore the Indian River Lagoon, where kayaking and paddleboarding offer a chance to see wildlife up close. For golf enthusiasts, the lush, green courses provide a perfect backdrop for a round with friends or family.

With its friendly neighbors, scenic views, and a never-ending calendar of festivals and events, Vero Beach is a delightful place to call home. Discover the harmonious blend of relaxation and excitement that makes this Floridian gem shine bright.

Coastal Real Estate: What Every Buyer Should Know

Owning a luxury home near the coast is a dream for many. However, purchasing coastal real estate requires careful due diligence. Buyers should not only consider location and amenities, but also be aware of the environmental, regulatory, and

structural complexities that come with waterfront living.

The first consideration is flood risk. Properties located in designated flood zones are subject to both regulatory requirements and higher insurance premiums. Buyers should consult FEMA flood maps and local zoning regulations to understand

areas prone to high wind and storm surge face stricter building codes and often require elevated construction to meet local ordinances. Buyers must check elevation certificates and determine whether a property complies with the latest storm-resistant standards. Luxury homes that do not meet these standards may require costly retrofits.

Flood and windstorm insurance are not optional expenses — they can emerge as essential protections for coastal homeowners.

These insurance policies can vary widely in cost depending on the property's location, elevation, and building materials. Prospective...

the specific flood zone designation of a prospective property. These zones can affect not only the cost of insurance, but also whether certain types of construction or renovation are allowed.

Hurricane impact zones are another critical factor. In Florida and other coastal states,

About the Author

Ben Bryk is a seasoned real estate professional with over 18 years of experience in Vero Beach, Florida. As a Global Luxury Specialist and a member of the International Luxury Alliance, Ben is committed to providing clients with comprehensive market insights and exceptional service.

Owning a home in Indian River County offers incredible lifestyle perks — from sun-soaked days to serene coastal living. But with this paradise comes the responsibility of hurricane preparedness. Protecting your home isn’t just about safety; it’s about preserving your investment and long-term property

value.

Your roof is your first line of defense. It’s always important to inspect for loose shingles, aging materials, and worn flashing well before storm season. A timely, professional roof evaluation not only helps prevent major repair costs, it also demonstrates sound maintenance to future

has been known to delay closings or trigger buyer renegotiations, particularly when damage from past storms becomes a concern.

Proper landscaping is more than just curb appeal; it’s a safety measure. Overgrown branches or unsecured outdoor items can cause damage to roofing, siding, and windows when exposed to high winds. Pruning branches and securing outdoor furnishings serve as frontline measures to reduce storm impact. Well-kept exteriors also reflect positively on ownership and upkeep — an important factor in buyer perception.

Finally, review your insurance, especially flood coverage...

buyers evaluating the property.

Impact windows and shutters are also essential. Make sure they function properly — no sticking hardware or rusting hinges. Deals can be delayed or renegotiated because of storm protection that wasn’t in working order. Deferred maintenance in this area

About the Author

Alex MacWilliam IV is the fourth-generation leader of Vero Beach’s oldest family-run real estate firm, continuing a tradition of excellence started in 1949. As managing broker, he brings decades of local expertise and deep community roots to every transaction.

by Dr. Norman D. Knowles

For individuals facing the loss of multiple teeth, choosing the right full-arch restoration method is a critical decision. Among the most common options are traditional dentures and the increasingly popular All-on-4 dental implant system. While both serve to restore appearance and function, they differ significantly in structure, comfort, and long-term maintenance.

Traditional dentures rest on the gums and rely on suction or adhesives to stay in place. They are removable, typically made of acrylic, and must be cleaned daily outside the mouth.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Dr. Norman D. Knowles is a highly experienced dentist and owner of Art of Smiles in Vero Beach, Florida. With a Doctor of Dental Medicine (D.M.D.) degree from the University of Florida and over 30 years in practice, he specializes in implant and sedation dentistry, offering personalized care with advanced technology to ensure patient comfort and satisfaction

While they offer an affordable entry point for tooth replacement, they often come with trade-offs. Many patients report challenges with speech clarity, dietary limitations, and the risk of slipping during use. Over time, bone loss in the jaw, common when teeth are missing, can alter the fit of dentures, requiring periodic adjustments or replacements.

The All-on-4 system uses four strategically placed dental implants to secure a full arch of prosthetic teeth directly to the jawbone. This anchoring system offers enhanced stability and preserves bone

The All-on-4 system uses four strategically placed dental implants to secure a full arch of prosthetic teeth directly to the jawbone.

structure through osseointegration, where the implants fuse with the bone. The result is a restoration that feels more natural in the mouth and allows for greater confidence in daily functions such as speaking and chewing.

Patients often find that All-on-4 implants require less maintenance than traditional dentures. There is no need for nightly removal or adhesive products, and hygiene routines resemble those of natural teeth. For many, the psychological benefit of a fixed,...

by Clay Collins

A common misconception in homebuying is that a 20% down payment is mandatory. While putting down 20% can help avoid private mortgage insurance (PMI) and reduce monthly payments, it is not a requirement for purchasing a home. In fact, many loan programs allow for significantly lower down payments, making homeownership more accessible to a broader range of buyers.

Several mortgage programs are specifically designed for buyers who cannot or prefer not to put down 20%. FHA loans, backed by the Federal Housing Administration, require as little as

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Clay Collins, a Central Florida resident since 1973, holds a BS in Business Administration from the University of Florida and an MBA from Rollins College. With over 41 years in banking—more than 35 of those in residential mortgages—and access to nearly 70 national lenders, he delivers concierge-level mortgage financing tailored to each client’s needs

3.5% down and are popular among first-time buyers and those with less-than-perfect credit. Some conventional loans, such as Fannie Mae's HomeReady and Freddie Mac's Home Possible, allow down payments as low as 3% when certain income and credit criteria are met. VA loans, available to eligible veterans and active-duty service members, often require no down payment and do not include PMI. USDA loans, aimed at rural and suburban buyers who meet income requirements, also offer zero down payment options.

Choosing a lower down payment can help buyers

Several mortgage programs are specifically designed for buyers who cannot or prefer not to put down 20%

get into homes sooner, but it comes with trade-offs. Private mortgage insurance is usually required for conventional loans with less than 20% down, which increases monthly costs. However, PMI can typically be removed once enough equity has built up in the home. Some lower down payment loans may also carry higher interest rates or additional fees, so it’s important to compare loan terms and understand the long-term costs. With less equity upfront, buyers should be prepared with extra...

by Michael Merrill

Florida’s Treasure Coast has long attracted second-home buyers who value scenic beauty and a slower pace of life. Two communities that consistently stand out are Vero Beach and Johns Island. These areas combine waterfront living with a strong sense of neighborhood, offering something more lasting than a typical vacation town. Unlike heavily developed tourist destinations, they maintain a calm environment where residents can relax without feeling crowded.
Vero Beach offers a balance of small-town charm and upscale convenience. The beaches are clean

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Michael Merrill is a Broker Associate at Michael Merrill Real Estate (with Douglas Elliman in Vero Beach, FL), bringing over 13 years of full-service real estate experience across residential and commercial markets. A former private banker and longtime golf professional, he excels at blending financial insight with personalized client strategies to guide buyers, sellers, and investors toward their goals.

and often quiet, making them perfect for morning walks or weekend gatherings. The town’s cultural scene is vibrant, with art galleries, live performances, and local festivals adding character. Restaurants range from casual seafood spots to fine dining, and the marina gives boaters easy access to the water. Despite its growth, Vero Beach protects its natural surroundings, which helps preserve the coastal setting that homeowners love.
Just to the north lies Johns Island, a gated community known for its exclusivity and breathtaking views. The area

The combination of private beaches, strong neighborhood ties, and thoughtful planning makes these communities some of the most desirable for second-home buyers in Florida.

stretches from the Atlantic Ocean to the Indian River, allowing many homes to enjoy both sunrise and sunset over the water. The lots are spacious, and the community’s design standards maintain a sense of elegance. Residents enjoy access to golf courses, equestrian facilities, and miles of nature trails that encourage an active lifestyle.
The combination of private beaches, strong neighborhood ties, and thoughtful planning makes these communities some of the most desirable for...

Hometown Heroes celebrates the brave men and women from Vero Beach who answered the call to serve. They left their homes, families, and communities to defend our freedoms. They brought with them the values of their upbringing, woven into the fabric of the communities they cherished. Across generations, these heroes stood united, embodying courage, sacrifice, and a love of country that knows no bounds. Whether on land, sea, or in

the skies, they carried the spirit of their hometowns with them, facing challenges with unyielding resolve and selflessness. We honor their service, their legacy, and the communities that raised them. Today, we remember not just their dedication but the strength and unity that bind us all as Americans. Their stories are our stories, a testament to the enduring spirit of the United States and the bonds that make us strong.