John Hoffman

Jacksonville is one of the top cities in the nation where purchasing a home is often a more financially savvy decision than paying for rent. So it should come as no surprise that a Northeast Florida financial expert found the home of his dreams and the deal of a lifetime at The John Gorrie a condominium.

Financial advisor John Hoffman relocated to Jacksonville in 2010 as a result of a job transition. He initially rented upon moving to the area but soon discovered the cost to purchase a home in the Jacksonville real estate market is often less than what one pays to rent a home or apartment.

“The Jacksonville area is one of those places where owning a home is better financially than renting,” Hoffman said. “When I decided to purchase a home, I looked at everything – homes, condominiums – and The John Gorrie was one of the last places I visited. I knew immediately that I wanted to purchase a home there.”

Hoffman discovered that the homes offered at The John Gorrie are unmatched by the competition.

“After seeing everything else, at almost twice the cost, I selected a home at The John Gorrie that was ready to move into and did not require any work,” Hoffman said. “The detail of the community’s renovation separates it from everything else.”

The John Gorrie’s owners, J. Wayne and Delores Barr Weaver, purchased the former John Gorrie Junior High School in 2009 and completed an extensive renovation and restoration to transform the historic landmark school into 68 historic residences with luxurious contemporary amenities.

“Mrs. Weaver had a vision for The John Gorrie and it was executed very well,” Hoffman said. “She has so much passion for the community and we all appreciate her efforts.”

Designed by renowned Jacksonville architects Benjamin and Greeley, the buildings’ ornate design reflects Mediterranean Revival architecture popular in the early 1920s. Inside, the residences feature 12-foot ceilings and expansive windows and are equipped with new appliances, CaesarStone countertops and hardwood floors. Many of the residences include elements from its former use as a school such as exposed brick walls. Hoffman selected a home on the third floor because it provides abundant natural light.

“It’s a different experience walking into a home at The John Gorrie,” Hoffman said. “When I enter my home, it’s like being in a tree house with its open floor plan overlooking the beautiful oak trees.”

The community’s convenient, walkable location and friendly atmosphere also offer great appeal.

“I live within walking distance to numerous local restaurants, 5 Points and the movie theater,” Hoffman said. “My neighbors and I have enjoyed several get-togethers in the courtyard.”

The John Gorrie offers studios, one- and two-bedroom residences and two-story townhomes priced from the low $100,000s. For more information about The John Gorrie community, call (904) 383-3688 or visit www.TheJohnGorrie.com.