Winter Haven
Life In Winter Haven
Winter Haven known as the Chain of Lakes City, boasts stunning residential properties and outstanding quality of life, among many other admirable qualities. Here is everything you need to know about living in Winter Haven.
History
Prior to Winter Haven's incorporation as a city in 1923, the area was settled by different groups throughout history. First were the Calusa and the Timucua, both of which are considered Winter Haven's earliest inhabitants. These two groups were severely affected by war and disease during the 16th century when the Spanish came. They were followed by the Seminole and the Creek in the 19th century. In this time period, Florida became part of the United States. The 20th century saw Winter Haven's incorporation and expansion. More and more people came to the city to establish their roots. Most of Winter Haven's historic Colonial Revival homes were built during this period. Winter Haven's growth continued to become the city we all know and love today.
Location
Winter Haven is located in Polk County in Central Florida. It is a part of the Lakeland-Winter Haven metropolitan area. Additionally, Winter Haven is considered the second most populous city in Polk County, with a population of approximately 38,900 residents according to 2016 estimates. One of Winter Haven's most distinctive features is a large number of lakes within its boundaries. According to official records, there are about 50 lakes within the city, including Lake Howard, Lake Eloise, and Lake Lulu. Aside from being a hotbed of outdoor recreation and water activities, these lakes and their surrounding areas are thriving with wildlife. Winter Haven is located adjacent to Lakeland. Tampa is situated approximately 50 miles west of Winter Haven. Surrounding communities include Lake Alfred, Haines City, Bartow, Lake Wales, Auburndale, Davenport, Dundee, and Lakeland.
Winter Haven has many meanings to many people. For some it’s as literal as it sounds . . . it’s the perfect haven from the harsh Winter months up North. To others, Winter Haven means experiencing the lakeside lifestyle – pontoon boat tours, paddle-boarding, wake-boarding, water skiing, kayak tours and fishing.
Then there’s the more relaxed way of enjoying our lakes – watch vibrant orange and pink sunsets from a dock while sipping on a glass of wine or a Winter Haven brewed craft beer.
Winter Haven is home to LEGOLAND® Florida Resort and more. Get on Winter Haven’s Chain of Lakes or experience the city’s award winning community theatre, lakeside restaurants and local(kid-friendly) brewerys
LEGOLAND Florida Resort
To children, or even just the child within, Winter Haven is home to the most beautiful, entertaining and interactive theme park, hotel and beach resort in the world, LEGOLAND Florida Resort, Pirate Island Hotel, LEGOLAND Hotel and LEGOLAND Beach Retreat. And opening just steps from LEGOLAND in February 2022 will be the Peppa Pig Theme Park, especially designed for pre-schoolers.
Activities
Golf - There are several golf courses located in Winter Haven, such as The Country Club of Winter Haven, Cypresswood Golf Course and Country Club, Willowbrook Golf Course, and Lake Bess Golf Club. Each of these golf facilities offers a number of amenities and promise great tee times, whether you're a golf beginner or a seasoned player
Outdoor recreation - When you live in an area as beautiful as Winter Haven, there's little reason to stay indoors. Outdoor recreation is a popular pastime in Winter Haven. Winter Haven is also a short drive from a couple of wildlife preserves, such as Hilochee Wildlife Management Area, Upper Hillsborough Preserve, Colt Creek State Park, and Green Swamp Wilderness Preserve.
The Water Ski Capital of the World
For water skiers, no location is as storied as the banks of Lake Eloise, the home of Cypress Gardens in Winter Haven. It is fitting that the central point in the sport’s centennial celebration is here in Florida’s Sweetest Spot. Learn all about how we are celebrating the 100th Anniversary of the Sport of Water Ski throughout 2022
Wildlife observation - Winter Haven's lake areas are teeming with wildlife, making Winter Haven also a desired destination for wildlife enthusiasts, especially bird watchers. Animal species that have been spotted in Winter Haven include great blue herons, egrets, bald eagles, and alligators.
Shopping and dining - Downtown Winter Haven is home to a string of shopping and dining opportunities, from national retailers to local businesses and independent boutiques. Every Saturday, you will find a weekend market that sells a variety of goods, from local artisanal products to fresh produce.
Arts & Culture
Winter Haven is a place of varied arts and cultural experiences from multiple art galleries, locally-owned artisan restaurants and shopping, a restored historic downtown business district and the revival of locally-grown music at Gram Parson’s Derry Down and the historic Ritz Theatre. It’s also home to the one of Florida’s best community theaters, Theatre Winter Haven.
Downtown Winter Haven also hosts a number of community events throughout the year, such as Oktoberfest, Carols in the Park, and the annual tree lighting ceremony. What's most exciting about Downtown Winter Haven is the continuous growth and expansion of the area. In 2018, the neighborhood underwent a massive redevelopment project that made Main Street more bicycle- and pedestrian-friendly. A new park is also currently being developed as of the time of writing.
Schools in Winter Haven
Winter Haven's family-friendliness is further boosted by its well-performing schools. Public schools in and around the city, such as Jewett Academy Middle School, Winter Haven Senior High School, and Lake Region High School, are managed by Polk County Public Schools. There are also several private schools that serve Winter Haven. Explore Winter Haven real estate and homes for sale by getting in touch with us today at 863-875-5583
Made with love in Winter Haven, Florida.
© 2022 NEXTHOME | NORRIS & COMPANY REALTY
ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
Each office is independently owned and operated. Servicing Winter Haven, FL.
Testimonials
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Michael was good at feedback from potential buyers. He stayed on top of the transaction and was always available to answer questions or give updates. He was an enjoyable person to converse with and knowledgeable about the real estate market in our area.
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- Tracy Young
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Michael & Dee had my lakefront listing for only two weeks before receiving an acceptable offer, after having been on the market for a year with another realtor with only one low offer. I've listed another lakefront property with them because I know and like them, have worked with them successfully, and believe in their ability and their commitment.
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- Bradford Fuller
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I’ve sold a house with Michael and his team before and the experience was excellent. This was my first time using Norris and Co to buy a home. Michael and his team made buying our house an easy and painless process. Their support before, during, and after the sale is first class. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend them.
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- Tom Furland (Managing Consultant)
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Michael handled everything for me and made sure I understood the process. I knew nothing about buying a home, but Michael has taught me so much! Thank you Michael!
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- Judy Lawson
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great job. would recommmend them to every one and and already have. very knowledgeable and efficient.
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- vern plettner
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They did an excellent job and I would definitely recommend their agency.
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- Barbara Surls
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I can't say enough about Michael Norris and his staff. From the first day I reached out to Michael to the day we closed I was 100% satisfied with the service Mr. Norris provided.
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- John Jennings (Business owner)
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Michael and Dee were fantastic! The entire crew were very pleasant to work with and would highly recommend them!
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- Ken B
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They did a fabulous job and kept us updated regularly. Smooth as silk.
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- James Hill (Business owner )
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It was a pleasure working with Michael and his team. We procrastinated for quite a while trying to sell the property ourselves. We decided to list with Michael and a couple of days later, he met me at the house. The property was listed on the MLS on a Thursday and by Saturday we had at least 2 offers.
Michael was very helpful through the negotiation process and approximately 4 weeks later, we closed. I would recommend NextHome to anyone needing a quality realty team.
Thanks Michael and Dee
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- D. Steve Cook (Home owner)
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Michael and Dee were really helpful and very professional helping us get the house bought and closed.
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- Mike Hill (VP Sales)
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I can't thank you enough for helping me sell my house. You changed my life for the better. You're always on top of things, friendly, accommodating, professional, and personable. If I ever move again, you'll be the first person I call.
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- April Liberatore
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Dee, Michael and Jennifer were wonderful in getting our house listed and sold!
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- Colleen Smith
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Former Global Vice President NEC Japan and business owners
Michael and Dee are leading a dynamic organization big enough to be considered one of the biggest and best, yet able to focus of your sale or your sale as if it were there only business they have at the time.
They are consummate professionals yet down to earth people helping others as a full-service company.
Our apartment complex was not a easy sale yet they made it feel that way and had many buyers lined up in days after the listing. Their long history in the greater Winter Haven market is unmatched.
I would recommend Michael, Dee and their team to help you sell or buy without reservation. You will be hard pressed to do better
Regards
Reed and Lon
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- Reed killets and Lon Dukes recommends Michael and Dee Norris
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I was very pleased working with Michael. He went over and above to work around my schedule and was very helpful.
Thank you
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- Jennifer Fike
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"We recently closed on our new homes and were so impressed. The closing agent, he was professional and highly organized. All of the legal documents were prepared accurately and explained clearly—no surprises at the table! They made the last hour of a very stressful process feel easy. Highly recommend for a reliable and efficient closing."
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- Miguel A Marquez (CEO - Angels of Hope Home Care )
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Michael was there for us all through the process, always available when we had a question. I would highly recommend him as your realtor.
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- Walter Webster
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This team kept the seller's situation and needs foremost throughout the sales process. The communication was superb at all times and the desired end result was obtained within a very short timeframe. I would recommend this team with a 5 Star rating. Their experience in the real estate field is evident and their goals are one with the customer!
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- CAROLYN S MCVICKER
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This team kept the seller's situation and needs foremost throughout the sales process. The communication was superb at all times and the desired end result was obtained within a very short timeframe. I would recommend this team with a 5 Star rating. Their experience in the real estate field is evident and their goals are one with the customer!
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- CAROLYN S MCVICKER
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Retired - Staff Scientist, Software Development in Telecommunications
I highly recommend Michael and Dee Norris and their NextHome Norris & Company Realty team.
Michael and Dee provided a very personal as well as business touch in advising and guiding the selling of Mom's estate property. They were very understanding and respectful of our family's needs and requests while managing, listing, showing, and selling the property.
Thank y'all so very much!!!
Sincerely,
Melvin D. Blackwel
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- Melvin D. Blackwell recommends Michael and Dee Norris
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Michael and Dee went above and beyond to get this deal complete . Thank you guys for selling my home .
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- Michael Sidwell
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Michael, Dee, and their skilled team went above and beyond during the entire process of selling our home. We received excellent communication from start to finish. They made sure all of our needs were met. We would definitely do business with them again.
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- Connie Sidwell (Home Owner)
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Excellent! Highly recommend!
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- Bill Holladay
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Michael and Dee are such great supporters of our community and our organization. They have supported our endeavors for fundraising at our special events and most recently provided meals during our summer program for 150 kids. Michael led the charge in this wonderful group of Realtors and staff. This is what community partners look like and what great examples Michael and Dee are.
Thank you for all you do.
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- CURTIS REDDICK (Boys & Girls Clubs of Polk County )
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Michael and Dee Norris are consummate real estate professionals. This was our second purchase with them, and as always, it went without a hitch. They always go the extra mile to facilitate every facet of your transaction, down to providing a complimentary concierge service to assist new home buyers with all of their utility and other service provider connections. Michael and Dee are fully knowledgeable and more than generous with their time and wisdom. The best folks in the biz!
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- Beth Evans
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Michael and Dee Norris are outstanding Realtors. They pay attention to detail, and are accessible whenever needed. They explain each step of the process, answer all questions, and offer guidance. It’s a pleasure to be their client, and I will use them again in the future.
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- Wendy Morel
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Michael and Dee helped my company acquire 21 rental units in the past 6 months. The process was smooth, the professionalism made the purchase easy, and the attention to detail was much appreciated.
Thank you Mike and Dee.
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- Ryan Mullis (Property Manager)
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Wife & I were very pleased and delighted with the proficiency, expertise, professionalism and efficiency of the Michael and Dee Norris team! They helped us every step of the way during our purchasing process. When small challenges presented themselves, Michael, Dee and team “Marched to the front” to meet them head on and helped us persevere to the end (Closing). I would highly recommend this experienced and delightful team for your future Real Estate needs. Thanks guys!
Craig & Mary O.
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- Craig Ober
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Excellent friendly service. Highly recommended
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- Doug Lockwood (Attorney)
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I highly recommend Michael and Dee Norris and their NextHome Norris & Company Realty team.
Michael and Dee provided a very personal as well as business touch in advising and guiding the selling of Mom's estate property. They were very understanding and respectful of our family's needs and requests while managing, listing, showing, and selling the property.
Thank y'all so very much!!!
Sincerely,
Melvin D. Blackwell
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- Melvin D. Blackwell (Retired - Staff Scientist, Software Development in Telecommunications)
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I would gladly recommend the Norris team to anyone - great work!
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- Brad Wilson
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Michael and Dee are personal friends and also did a wonderful job on selling my home. They gave me names of people who could help me get the house ready to be sold. I will happily refer them to anyone who is selling or purchasing a home.
Karin Nelson
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- Karin G Nelson (Retired )
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From a random to phone call to owning a dream retirement property, Micheal made it happen...very grateful! Thank you! Rick in Alabama
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- Rick Elliott
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CEO of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Polk County
When we were notified that Norris and Company Realty and Next Home were going to help us feed our families, we had no idea that this meant they would be dropping off 150 bags of supplies for the families that need them the most (especially during this time)! Needless to say, we are raving fans of Norris and Company Realty and Next Home (Luke too) and know that #HumansoverHouses is not just a slogan, but a deeply held belief by these wonderful folks! Thank you for caring, for sharing and for helping us to change lives in Polk County!
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- Steve Giordano recommends Michael and Dee Norris
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Great service and great support in selling our home. Very knowledgeable!
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- Andrea Holladay
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I highly recommend Michael and Dee Norris! They go above and beyond with their professional work and made a challenging sale feel effortless for me. There wasn't one wrinkle in the process, I'm so grateful for all that the did to help me sell my home.
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- Diana Mansfield
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Michael & Dee had my lakefront listing for only two weeks before receiving an acceptable offer, after having been on the market for a year with another realtor with only one low offer. I've listed another lakefront property with them because I know and like them, have worked with them successfully, and believe in their ability and their commitment.
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- Bradford Fuller
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Michael was in touch on items that affected the house sale progress. He was helpful in resolving obstacles. When he didn't know an answer, he would say so instead of make up an answer.
He worked for the money he received, and it showed when the sale became difficult. thank you.
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- Tracy Young (trustee)
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First class in every perspective. From Secretaries all the way to top. 3rd time using Mike
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- Niko Lambridis
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This is my second home that I have sold with Michael and Dee NORRIS team. The office is friendly and professional and they know how to get the job done. It has been an honor to have them representing me with all of my sale needs.
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- Lana Cannon
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Working with Michael on the sale of my home was an extreme pleasure. His professionalism & knowledge of the process always made me feel comfortable being associated with him & his staff. Thumbs up for a great job on the sale of my home.
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- John Giordano (Homeowner)
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Michael and Dee were really helpful and very professional helping us get the house bought and closed.
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- Mike Hill VP Sales
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Michael Norris is a miracle worker! We listed our parents home with him after their passing.
It was a Estate home with 5 adult beneficiaries.
Michael had good relationships with all 5!
Michael and Dee put together a great marketing program,online and print. The Next Home website was easy to use and the photos and virtual tour of the home was spectacular!
The closing was delayed a few times but with Michael’s guidance we got through it. Michael and Dee got us a good price and were Easy to work with! They go the extra mile…5 Star Service! Thank you Michael and Dee Norris!!!
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- Jeff Shell (Retired Financial Advisor)
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When we were notified that Norris and Company Realty and Next Home were going to help us feed our families, we had no idea that this meant they would be dropping off 150 bags of supplies for the families that need them the most (especially during this time)! Needless to say, we are raving fans of Norris and Company Realty and Next Home (Luke too) and know that #HumansoverHouses is not just a slogan, but a deeply held belief by these wonderful folks! Thank you for caring, for sharing and for helping us to change lives in Polk County!
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- Steve Giordano (CEO of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Polk County )
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Excellent real estate professionals with a lifetime of experience.
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- Ben Adams
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Micheal and Dee did an outstanding job in selling our home, Jennifer did an amazing job keeping us up to date with the progress of the sale, closing and all paperwork needed. We would highly recommend this group to anyone selling or buying a home.
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- David S
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It was a pleasure to work with Michael and Dee Norris on selling some property and I will definitely use them again and highly recommend them.
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- Nanette Ochoa-Shaw (Guardian)
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Michael and Dee Norris give their clients 110%
I would highly recommend them to care for your real estate needs!
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- Evan Westlake
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It was a pleasure to work with michael and dee. Very caring people and forever friends.
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- Katie green
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Dee and Michael are the best I highly recommend.
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- Niv Benyehuda
Copyright © MFRMLS.com All information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. All properties are subject to prior sale, change or withdrawal. Neither listing broker(s) or information provider(s) shall be responsible for any typographical errors, misinformation, misprints and shall be held totally harmless. Listing(s) information is provided for consumers personal, non-commercial use and may not be used for any purpose other than to identify prospective properties consumers may be interested in purchasing. Information on this site was last updated Last updated on September 25, 2026 7:16 PM UTC The listing information on this page last changed on Last updated on September 25, 2026 7:16 PM UTCd. The data relating to real estate for sale on this website comes in part from the Internet Data Exchange program of MFR MLS.
All information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. All properties are subject to prior sale, change or withdrawal. Neither listing broker(s) or information provider(s) shall be responsible for any typographical errors, misinformation, misprints and shall be held totally harmless. Listing(s) information is provided for consumers personal, non-commercial use and may not be used for any purpose other than to identify prospective properties consumers may be interested in purchasing.
Updated on September 25, 2026 7:16 PM UTC
