Facebook
X
Pinterest
Copy Link
July 2026 ~ 4th of July Fun, Vintage Trends and Barndominiums!
July 2026 NewsletterWelcome to Your July 2026 Real Estate & Lifestyle Update!
Hello friends, neighbors, and sunshine lovers ☀️ July is officially arriving here in beautiful South Florida—and you can feel the energy everywhere. Between long beach days, backyard gatherings, and fireworks lighting up the sky, this is the season where home truly becomes the heart of it all. As your local real estate resource (and someone who absolutely loves where we live), I always think of July as the perfect blend of celebration, inspiration, and fresh ideas for making your home even more special. And this month’s newsletter is packed with just that. With the 4th of July right around the corner, we’re sharing a few fun, fresh celebration ideas—from simple ways to elevate your backyard party to practical reminders to help keep your family, guests (and even pets!) safe while enjoying the festivities. After all, while fireworks and summer traditions bring us together, safety is just as important as the celebration itself. Inside your home, it’s all about effortless upgrades that feel high-end without the heavy lift. You’ll find inspiration for incorporating brass, copper, and gold accents—a trend that’s having a major comeback thanks to its warm, timeless appeal and ability to instantly elevate a space. We’re also taking a closer look at one of the most talked-about housing trends right now: barndominiums. These versatile, open-concept homes are gaining popularity across the U.S. for their flexibility, durability, and unique blend of modern design with rustic charm. And if you love a little nostalgia mixed with style (who doesn’t?), you’ll enjoy our spotlight on vintage-inspired décor—a trend that’s bringing warmth, personality, and story-driven design back into today’s homes. Whether you’re thinking about buying, selling, updating your space, or just soaking in everything summer has to offer, my goal is always the same—to keep you informed, inspired, and connected to our amazing community. Here’s to a joyful, safe, and beautifully styled July ✨ |
|||||||||||
National Stories
|
|||||||||||
|
|
|||||||||||
Real Estate Updates | Area Reports | May 2026
As always, I’m here to be a resource for you—whether you’re dreaming about your next move, considering updates to maximize your home’s value, or simply looking for trusted guidance along the way. Summer in SE Florida is a beautiful time to pause, enjoy, and plan ahead, and I’d love to support you in making the most of it. If you have questions about the market, your property, or would like a personalized home valuation, please don’t hesitate to reach out. I’m always just a call, text, or email away—and ready to help whenever you need it.
⇒ CONTACT ANNETTE ⇐Let’s start working together!
Annette Dammeyer, REALTOR®, ABR®, AHWD® Coldwell Banker Realty 901 E Las Olas Blvd STE 101, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301 808.747.3686 SL 3535792
|
4th of July Fun!
🎆 Celebrating the 4th of July in Our SE Florida Community
From your local REALTOR® and neighbor who loves where we live
Every year, the Fourth of July gives us a chance to pause, celebrate, and appreciate the freedoms we enjoy — all while soaking up sunshine, good food, and great company. As someone who lives, works, and plays right here in our beautiful SE Florida neighborhoods, I love seeing how our community comes alive with red, white, and blue spirit.
A Very Brief History (The Fun, Fast Version)
The Fourth of July marks the adoption of the Declaration of Independence in 1776 — the moment the 13 colonies officially said, “We’re doing our own thing now.” Since then, Americans have celebrated with fireworks, parades, cookouts, and gatherings big and small. It’s a holiday rooted in unity, pride, and the joy of community — three things we do exceptionally well here along the coast.
🎉 Fresh Celebration Ideas for a Florida‑Style Fourth
Sure, we all love fireworks and BBQs… but here are some fun, not‑so‑overdone ideas that fit our SE Florida lifestyle perfectly:
🌊 1. Sunrise Freedom Walk on the Beach
Beat the heat, enjoy the breeze, and start the day with gratitude. Bring coffee, a flag, and maybe a neighbor or two.
🛶 2. Red, White & Blue Paddle Parade
Kayaks, paddleboards, even inflatable flamingos — decorate them and cruise the Intracoastal or lakes. Great photo ops and a fun way to cool off.
🍉 3. Watermelon Carving Contest
Think pumpkin carving… but juicier. Kids and adults love it, and it’s a refreshing twist on a classic summer treat.
🐶 4. Patriotic Pup Parade
Dress up your furry friends (safely and comfortably) and stroll the neighborhood. Bonus points for matching outfits.
🎶 5. Backyard “American Classics” Playlist Party
Instead of blasting the same songs everyone else uses, curate a mix of feel‑good hits from different decades. Add a few tropical tunes to keep it Florida‑fresh.
🏡 6. Neighborhood Porch Decorating Challenge
Encourage neighbors to decorate their porches, balconies, or docks. It builds community pride and makes evening walks extra festive.
🔥 Safety Tips to Keep the Day Fun (and Stress‑Free)
A little planning goes a long way:
- Hydrate like it’s your job — July heat in SE Florida is no joke.
- Protect your pets — fireworks can be scary; keep them indoors with calming music.
- Be firework‑smart — if you’re lighting your own, keep a bucket of water nearby and avoid windy conditions.
- Grill safely — check propane connections, keep kids at a distance, and never leave the grill unattended.
- Sun safety — SPF 30+, hats, shade breaks, and plenty of water.
- Boat responsibly — designate a sober captain and check weather conditions before heading out.
💙 A Note From Your Neighbor & Local REALTOR®
As someone who’s deeply invested in our SE Florida community — from Dania Beach to Fort Lauderdale to Boca Raton — I love seeing how our neighborhoods come together during holidays like this. Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ, enjoying fireworks on the beach, or simply relaxing at home, I hope your Fourth of July is filled with joy, connection, and a little extra sparkle.
If you ever need local recommendations, market insights, or help navigating your next real estate move, I’m always here for you. Wishing you and your loved ones a safe, happy, and memorable Independence Day! 🎇🌴
Happy Independence Day!
CONTACT ANNETTE
Let’s start working together!
Annette Dammeyer, REALTOR®, ABR®, AHWD®
Coldwell Banker Realty
901 E Las Olas Blvd STE 101, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301
808.747.3686
SL 3535792
July 2025 ~ Unlock Equity, Spark Joy & Celebrate!
July 2025 NewsletterJuly is nearly here, and you know what that means—fireworks, family, and a fresh batch of inspiration to make your home sparkle all year long! I’m delighted to bring you this month’s newsletter, filled with practical tips and creative ideas to elevate your space and your equity. Whether you’re cooling off poolside or prepping your patio for the perfect Fourth of July bash, I’ve curated articles that speak to the way we live—and dream—here in beautiful South Florida. This issue, we’re exploring:
Wherever you are on your homeownership journey, I’m here to help you make informed, confident, and creative choices—every step of the way. Wishing you a safe, joyful and fun-filled July! Warmly, |
|||||||||||
National Stories
|
|||||||||||
|
|
|||||||||||
|
Real Estate Updates | Area Reports | May 2025
|
Enjoy your July and celebrate in style! If you are interested in evaluating your home equity, I offer complimentary comparative market analyses to give you a clear picture of your home’s value in today’s SE Florida market. I’m here to help and guide you every step of the way with experience and integrity.
CONTACT ANNETTE
Let’s start working together!
Annette Dammeyer, REALTOR®, ABR®, AHWD®
Coldwell Banker Realty
901 E Las Olas Blvd STE 101, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301
808.747.3686
SL 3535792
4th of July Events in SE Florida and Safety Tips for the Entire Family
Celebrate 4th of July 2023 in SE Florida
4th of July Spectacular on Fort Lauderdale Beach
July 4th on Hollywood Beach
City of Sunrise Celebrates July 4th with Parade, Concert & Fireworks
City of Deerfield Beach July 4th Celebration
****As always, I like to gently remind everyone about taking safety precautions on the 4th of July****
Top 10 Pet Summer Safety Tips from Petfinder
1. Keep Your Cat Safe on the Fourth of July
- Be sure your cat is wearing an up-to-date and visible ID tag on their collar at all times.
- Take a current photo of your cat.
- Give your cat a good play session before people come over for any celebrations.
- Ask guests to keep an eye out for your cat, to be sure they don’t escape.
- Keep charcoal, fireworks, sparklers and glow sticks far from curious cats.
- Put your cat in a safe, escape-proof room during parties and fireworks.
- If your cat is afraid of loud noises, leave gentle music playing to cover the fireworks.
2. Keep Your Dog Safe on the Fourth of July
- Be sure your dog is wearing an up-to-date and visible ID tag on their collar at all times.
- Take a current photo of your dog.
- Exercise your dog early in the day before parties begin.
- During cookouts, ask guests to play with your dog away from the flames.
- Keep charcoal, fireworks, sparklers and glow sticks far from curious canines.
- Keep dog treats on hand for those who want to give your dog food.
- Leave your dog at home with a frozen stuffed treat during the fireworks.
- If your dog is afraid of loud noises, leave gentle music playing to cover the fireworks.
3. 5 Tips to Prevent Lost Pups
- Be sure your dog wears their collar with a clearly visible ID tag at all times
- Update your dog’s microchip information or get them microchipped if they haven’t already been.
- During parties, be sure to inform guests that all gates and doors need to be securely latched to prevent your dog from wandering.
- If your dog is stressed by parties, consider keeping them in a safe room with their favorite toys away from your guests.
- Leave your dog at home during Independence Day fireworks to avoid a stressed and scared pup running away in the dark.
4. Keep Your Cat from Becoming Lost
- Check that your cat’s collar fits securely and that their tag is easy to read with your current information.
- Update your microchip information! If your cat doesn’t already have a microchip, make an appointment with your veterinarian or call your local shelter about microchip clinics.
- Put your kitty with their food, water and a litter box in an enclosed area with a visible sign declaring that the cat is inside and must not be allowed out.
- Prepare in advance. Make sure that you have current, clear photos of your cat ready for lost flyers.
- Ask your guests to keep an eye out for your cat during the festivities.
5. Keep Your Dog Safe at a Cookout
- Be sure your dog is wearing a visible and up-to-date ID tag on their collar before the party begins.
- Keep charcoal, matches and lighter fluid away from your dog.
- Consider keeping your pup on a leash so they don’t explore hot grills or tables of food.
- Do NOT feed dogs: Onions, garlic and chives. The onion family, whether dry, raw or cooked, is particularly toxic to dogs and can cause gastrointestinal irritation and red blood cell damage, Chocolate, Macadamia nuts, Corn on the cob, Avocado, Artificial sweetener (Xylitol), Alcohol, Cooked bones. These are TOXIC to our canine family!
- While grilling, ask guests to play with your dog far from the flames.
- Place citronella and other insect-repellants where your dog can’t reach them.
- Never leave alcohol unattended around your dogs.
- Check that all sunscreen or insect repellant you apply to your dog is labeled for use on pets.
- Don’t let guests give your pup people food. Consider having a bag of treats on hand.
- Be sure all children are supervised when near your dog to avoid any roughhousing.
- If your pup seems overwhelmed, bring them inside and put them in a quiet area away from guests.
6. Heatstroke is deadly for dogs
The signs of heatstroke include:
- Excessive or exaggerated panting
- Lethargy
- Weakness
- Drooling
- High fever
- Dark red gums
- Rapid heartbeat
- Unresponsiveness to commands and surroundings
- Vomiting
- Collapse
- Staring/anxious expression
- Warm/dry skin
If you think your dog may have heatstroke, head straight to your vet’s office. It could save their life!
7. Learn the Signs of Heatstroke in Cats
The signs of heatstroke include:
- Restlessness as your cat searches for a cooler spot
- Excessive grooming
- Panting
- Sweaty paws
- Drooling
- Redness of the tongue and mouth
- Rapid breathing
- Vomiting
- Stumbling
- Extreme lethargy
- Unresponsiveness
- High fever
If you think your cat may have heatstroke, head straight to your vet’s office. It could save their life!
8. How You Can Help Dogs in Hot Cars
- Call your local animal control or police department to report a pet in a car. Inform them if the pet appears to be in distress. Endangering a dog by leaving them in a car is against the law in many places.
- Try to find the pet parent. Note the license plate number, color, make and model of the car. Go to the nearest store or mall security office and ask them to make an announcement over the loudspeaker that a dog has been left in a car and needs help.
- Keep an eye on the car until the guardian or animal control arrive.
- Consider leaving our Never Leave a Dog in a Car infographic on the car to educate the guardian.
9. 4 Steps to Help Pets in Cars
- Call your local animal control or police department to report a pet in a car. Inform them if the pet appears to be in distress. Endangering a pet by leaving them in a car is against the law in many places.
- Try to find the cat’s parent. Note the license plate number, color, make and model of the car. Go to the nearest store or mall security office and ask them to make an announcement over the loudspeaker that a cat has been left in a car and needs help.
- Keep an eye on the car until the guardian or animal control arrive.
- Consider leaving our Never Leave a Pet in a Car infographic on the car to educate the guardian.
10. Tell Me!
Tell me about your hot weather and summer safety tips for your pet! We can share YOUR ideas to help others in our community.
Alternatives to Using Fireworks While Celebrating
I wish you a safe and wonderful 4th of July!!
Please contact me for any questions or assistance you may need, I am here to help.
Annette Dammeyer, REALTOR
Coldwell Banker Realty
901 E Las Olas Blvd STE 101, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301
808.747.3686
SL 3535792
4th of July Events & Safety Tips Copy
Celebrate 4th of July in SE Florida
4th of July Spectacular on Fort Lauderdale Beach
July 4th on Hollywood Beach
City of Sunrise Celebrates July 4th with Parade, Concert & Fireworks
City of Deerfield Beach July 4th Celebration
As always, I like to gently remind everyone about taking safety precautions on the 4th of July
Top 10 Pet Summer Safety Tips from Petfinder
1. Keep Your Cat Safe on the Fourth of July
- Be sure your cat is wearing an up-to-date and visible ID tag on their collar at all times.
- Take a current photo of your cat.
- Give your cat a good play session before people come over for any celebrations.
- Ask guests to keep an eye out for your cat, to be sure they don’t escape.
- Keep charcoal, fireworks, sparklers and glow sticks far from curious cats.
- Put your cat in a safe, escape-proof room during parties and fireworks.
- If your cat is afraid of loud noises, leave gentle music playing to cover the fireworks.
2. Keep Your Dog Safe on the Fourth of July
- Be sure your dog is wearing an up-to-date and visible ID tag on their collar at all times.
- Take a current photo of your dog.
- Exercise your dog early in the day before parties begin.
- During cookouts, ask guests to play with your dog away from the flames.
- Keep charcoal, fireworks, sparklers and glow sticks far from curious canines.
- Keep dog treats on hand for those who want to give your dog food.
- Leave your dog at home with a frozen stuffed treat during the fireworks.
- If your dog is afraid of loud noises, leave gentle music playing to cover the fireworks.
3. 5 Tips to Prevent Lost Pups
- Be sure your dog wears their collar with a clearly visible ID tag at all times
- Update your dog’s microchip information or get them microchipped if they haven’t already been.
- During parties, be sure to inform guests that all gates and doors need to be securely latched to prevent your dog from wandering.
- If your dog is stressed by parties, consider keeping them in a safe room with their favorite toys away from your guests.
- Leave your dog at home during Independence Day fireworks to avoid a stressed and scared pup running away in the dark.
4. Keep Your Cat from Becoming Lost
- Check that your cat’s collar fits securely and that their tag is easy to read with your current information.
- Update your microchip information! If your cat doesn’t already have a microchip, make an appointment with your veterinarian or call your local shelter about microchip clinics.
- Put your kitty with their food, water and a litter box in an enclosed area with a visible sign declaring that the cat is inside and must not be allowed out.
- Prepare in advance. Make sure that you have current, clear photos of your cat ready for lost flyers.
- Ask your guests to keep an eye out for your cat during the festivities.
5. Keep Your Dog Safe at a Cookout
- Be sure your dog is wearing a visible and up-to-date ID tag on their collar before the party begins.
- Keep charcoal, matches and lighter fluid away from your dog.
- Consider keeping your pup on a leash so they don’t explore hot grills or tables of food.
- While grilling, ask guests to play with your dog far from the flames.
- Place citronella and other insect-repellants where your dog can’t reach them.
- Never leave alcohol unattended around your dogs.
- Check that all sunscreen or insect repellant you apply to your dog is labeled for use on pets.
- Don’t let guests give your pup people food. Consider having a bag of treats on hand.
- Be sure all children are supervised when near your dog to avoid any roughhousing.
- If your pup seems overwhelmed, bring them inside and put them in a quiet area away from guests.
6. Heatstroke is deadly for dogs
The signs of heatstroke include:
- Excessive or exaggerated panting
- Lethargy
- Weakness
- Drooling
- High fever
- Dark red gums
- Rapid heartbeat
- Unresponsiveness to commands and surroundings
- Vomiting
- Collapse
- Staring/anxious expression
- Warm/dry skin
If you think your dog may have heatstroke, head straight to your vet’s office. It could save their life!
7. Learn the Signs of Heatstroke in Cats
The signs of heatstroke include:
- Restlessness as your cat searches for a cooler spot
- Excessive grooming
- Panting
- Sweaty paws
- Drooling
- Redness of the tongue and mouth
- Rapid breathing
- Vomiting
- Stumbling
- Extreme lethargy
- Unresponsiveness
- High fever
If you think your cat may have heatstroke, head straight to your vet’s office. It could save their life!
8. How You Can Help Dogs in Hot Cars
- Call your local animal control or police department to report a pet in a car. Inform them if the pet appears to be in distress. Endangering a dog by leaving them in a car is against the law in many places.
- Try to find the pet parent. Note the license plate number, color, make and model of the car. Go to the nearest store or mall security office and ask them to make an announcement over the loudspeaker that a dog has been left in a car and needs help.
- Keep an eye on the car until the guardian or animal control arrive.
- Consider leaving our Never Leave a Dog in a Car infographic on the car to educate the guardian.
9. 4 Steps to Help Pets in Cars
- Call your local animal control or police department to report a pet in a car. Inform them if the pet appears to be in distress. Endangering a pet by leaving them in a car is against the law in many places.
- Try to find the cat’s parent. Note the license plate number, color, make and model of the car. Go to the nearest store or mall security office and ask them to make an announcement over the loudspeaker that a cat has been left in a car and needs help.
- Keep an eye on the car until the guardian or animal control arrive.
- Consider leaving our Never Leave a Pet in a Car infographic on the car to educate the guardian.
10. Tell Me!
Tell me about your hot weather and summer safety tips for your pet!
Alternatives to Using Fireworks While Celebrating
I wish you a safe and wonderful 4th of July!!
Please contact me for any questions or assistance you may need, I am here to help.
Annette Dammeyer, REALTOR
Coldwell Banker Realty
808.747.3686
SL 3535792
4th of July Events & Safety Tips
Celebrate 4th of July in SE Florida
4th of July Spectacular on Fort Lauderdale Beach
July 4th on Hollywood Beach
City of Sunrise Celebrates July 4th with Parade, Concert & Fireworks
City of Deerfield Beach July 4th Celebration
As always, I like to gently remind everyone about taking safety precautions on the 4th of July
Top 10 Pet Summer Safety Tips from Petfinder
1. Keep Your Cat Safe on the Fourth of July
- Be sure your cat is wearing an up-to-date and visible ID tag on their collar at all times.
- Take a current photo of your cat.
- Give your cat a good play session before people come over for any celebrations.
- Ask guests to keep an eye out for your cat, to be sure they don’t escape.
- Keep charcoal, fireworks, sparklers and glow sticks far from curious cats.
- Put your cat in a safe, escape-proof room during parties and fireworks.
- If your cat is afraid of loud noises, leave gentle music playing to cover the fireworks.
2. Keep Your Dog Safe on the Fourth of July
- Be sure your dog is wearing an up-to-date and visible ID tag on their collar at all times.
- Take a current photo of your dog.
- Exercise your dog early in the day before parties begin.
- During cookouts, ask guests to play with your dog away from the flames.
- Keep charcoal, fireworks, sparklers and glow sticks far from curious canines.
- Keep dog treats on hand for those who want to give your dog food.
- Leave your dog at home with a frozen stuffed treat during the fireworks.
- If your dog is afraid of loud noises, leave gentle music playing to cover the fireworks.
3. 5 Tips to Prevent Lost Pups
- Be sure your dog wears their collar with a clearly visible ID tag at all times
- Update your dog’s microchip information or get them microchipped if they haven’t already been.
- During parties, be sure to inform guests that all gates and doors need to be securely latched to prevent your dog from wandering.
- If your dog is stressed by parties, consider keeping them in a safe room with their favorite toys away from your guests.
- Leave your dog at home during Independence Day fireworks to avoid a stressed and scared pup running away in the dark.
4. Keep Your Cat from Becoming Lost
- Check that your cat’s collar fits securely and that their tag is easy to read with your current information.
- Update your microchip information! If your cat doesn’t already have a microchip, make an appointment with your veterinarian or call your local shelter about microchip clinics.
- Put your kitty with their food, water and a litter box in an enclosed area with a visible sign declaring that the cat is inside and must not be allowed out.
- Prepare in advance. Make sure that you have current, clear photos of your cat ready for lost flyers.
- Ask your guests to keep an eye out for your cat during the festivities.
5. Keep Your Dog Safe at a Cookout
- Be sure your dog is wearing a visible and up-to-date ID tag on their collar before the party begins.
- Keep charcoal, matches and lighter fluid away from your dog.
- Consider keeping your pup on a leash so they don’t explore hot grills or tables of food.
- While grilling, ask guests to play with your dog far from the flames.
- Place citronella and other insect-repellants where your dog can’t reach them.
- Never leave alcohol unattended around your dogs.
- Check that all sunscreen or insect repellant you apply to your dog is labeled for use on pets.
- Don’t let guests give your pup people food. Consider having a bag of treats on hand.
- Be sure all children are supervised when near your dog to avoid any roughhousing.
- If your pup seems overwhelmed, bring them inside and put them in a quiet area away from guests.
6. Heatstroke is deadly for dogs
The signs of heatstroke include:
- Excessive or exaggerated panting
- Lethargy
- Weakness
- Drooling
- High fever
- Dark red gums
- Rapid heartbeat
- Unresponsiveness to commands and surroundings
- Vomiting
- Collapse
- Staring/anxious expression
- Warm/dry skin
If you think your dog may have heatstroke, head straight to your vet’s office. It could save their life!
7. Learn the Signs of Heatstroke in Cats
The signs of heatstroke include:
- Restlessness as your cat searches for a cooler spot
- Excessive grooming
- Panting
- Sweaty paws
- Drooling
- Redness of the tongue and mouth
- Rapid breathing
- Vomiting
- Stumbling
- Extreme lethargy
- Unresponsiveness
- High fever
If you think your cat may have heatstroke, head straight to your vet’s office. It could save their life!
8. How You Can Help Dogs in Hot Cars
- Call your local animal control or police department to report a pet in a car. Inform them if the pet appears to be in distress. Endangering a dog by leaving them in a car is against the law in many places.
- Try to find the pet parent. Note the license plate number, color, make and model of the car. Go to the nearest store or mall security office and ask them to make an announcement over the loudspeaker that a dog has been left in a car and needs help.
- Keep an eye on the car until the guardian or animal control arrive.
- Consider leaving our Never Leave a Dog in a Car infographic on the car to educate the guardian.
9. 4 Steps to Help Pets in Cars
- Call your local animal control or police department to report a pet in a car. Inform them if the pet appears to be in distress. Endangering a pet by leaving them in a car is against the law in many places.
- Try to find the cat’s parent. Note the license plate number, color, make and model of the car. Go to the nearest store or mall security office and ask them to make an announcement over the loudspeaker that a cat has been left in a car and needs help.
- Keep an eye on the car until the guardian or animal control arrive.
- Consider leaving our Never Leave a Pet in a Car infographic on the car to educate the guardian.
10. Tell Me!
Tell me about your hot weather and summer safety tips for your pet!
Alternatives to Using Fireworks While Celebrating
I wish you a safe and wonderful 4th of July!!
Please contact me for any questions or assistance you may need, I am here to help.
Annette Dammeyer, REALTOR
Coldwell Banker Realty
901 E Las Olas Blvd STE 101, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301
808.747.3686
SL 3535792
