Jan. 31, 2025

Estero Florida Waterfront Home Market Report January 2025

Estero Waterfront Homes for Sale

Estero Florida Waterfront Home Market Report

Estero Florida Waterfront Home Real Estate Inventory is up, January 2025. It's a great time for buyers seeking homes, Waterfront Homes and waterfront condos  - Stay up to date on the current real estate market trends with Estero Florida Waterfront Real Estate Market Reports. You'll see up to the minute active listings as they become available, also real estate listings that are currently pending and the most recent sales that have occurred in Estero, Florida. This will give you the advantage when negotiating the best price for your future Estero Waterfront home or condo. 

Jan. 31, 2025

Southwest Florida Real Estate

Southwest Florida Real Estate

Southwest Florida Real Estate

Jan. 29, 2025

Lifestyle Changes, making a move to Southwest Florida 2025

There's no better time than now to start planning for future retirement in Southwest Florida 2025


Southwest FloridaBegin your Southwest Florida Home Search

If retirement or preparing for retirement is on the horizon in Southwest Florida, now’s the time to start thinking about your next chapter. And you probably want to make sure you’re set up to feel comfortable financially to live the life you want.

What you may not realize is you likely have a hidden goldmine of cash you’re not thinking about — and that’s your home. Data from the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) shows that home values have gone up nearly 60% over the last 5 years alone (see graph below):

a map of the united statesAnd that appreciation gave your net worth a big boost. According to Freddie Mac, over the same five-year period:

“ . . . Boomer overall wealth increased by $19 trillion, or $486,000 per household, half of which is due to house price appreciation.”

So if you’ve been in your house ever longer than that, chances are you have even more equity in your home. If you want to have access to more of the wealth you’ve built up throughout the years, it’s worth thinking about selling your house to enjoy life in a warmer climate.

Adjusting your financial goals might be the right move

Selling now so you can move into your dream home in Southwest Florida, perhaps change your lifestyle or maybe purchase a home or condo in a more affordable area, this could free up your home equity so you can use a portion of it to help you feel confident retiring. Whether you want to spend more time with family near the beaches of Southwest Florida, accessing the equity in your home can make a huge difference. As Chase says:

“Retirement or planning for retirement is an exciting time. Selling your home to take advantage of the equity or to move to a new Florida home can open up additional options for your future.

Here are just a few of the ways a lifestyle in Southwest Florida can fuel your retirement:

1. Lifestyle Changes

Data from the AARP shows the number one reason adults 50 and older move is to reduce their stress and possibly cost of living. Relocating to a more affordable home in Southwest Florida may lower your monthly expenses depending on your current location — like utilities, property taxes, and maintenance costs.

2. Simplify Your Life

A home in a warmer climate allows it's residents to enjoy more activities outdoors year round. This can free up your time and energy spent inside in a colder environment to focus on the things that matter most in your retirement.

3. Boost Your Financial Flexibility

Selling your current home gives you access to your equity, turning it into cash you can use however you like. Whether it’s investing, paying off debt, or creating a financial cushion, it can open up new opportunities for your future in Southwest Florida.

The First Step Toward Your Next Chapter

If you think you may be interested in learning more about moving to Florida, working with a real estate agent that knows the areas to invest is your next step. Scott Meadows will help you understand how much equity to have and how you can use it. More than that. He'll also help you navigate the entire process of selling your current home and finding a new one, so you can transition smoothly into a new home and a new phase of life.

Bottom Line

If you’re planning to retire in 2025, now may be the perfect time to downsize and unlock the equity you’ve built up in your home. Let’s start planning your move now, so you’re set up to make every day feel like a Saturday. Scott Meadows - Broker Associate - Premiere Plus Realty - 239.220.1157

Jan. 28, 2025

What's the Secret To Selling in Southwest Florida? Using the right Agent To Get Your House Noticed


Southwest Florida Listing Agent
Florida Custom Homes

In a recent survey, the National Association of Realtors (NAR) asked sellers what they want most from a real estate agent. The number one answer was to help market their house.

It makes sense. The way your agent markets your house can be the difference between whether or not it stands out and gets attention from buyers. That’s why it’s so important to work with an expert local agent that knows what they're doing.

According to that same report from NAR, here are some of the most common methods real estate agents use to market homes, and how you benefit when your agent uses them effectively (see graph below):

  • Listing on the local MLS – Real estate agents have access to the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) database. And that’s great for you because having your house on the MLS helps it get more visibility from other agents and buyers. And the more people who see it, the more likely it is to sell.
  • Using a Yard Sign – A yard sign may seem simple, but it’s one of the best ways to catch the attention of people driving or walking by. And when it does, they’ll help spread the word to friends and family who are looking to buy that there’s a house for sale in the area. It also puts your agent’s contact information on display, making it easy for interested buyers to get in touch.
  • Having an Open House – An open house is a great way to create a sense of competition and urgency among buyers – and that can lead to stronger offers. And since you’ll only need to leave once for many buyers to visit, it makes the process easier for you, too. Plus, an open house helps your agent get real-time feedback about what buyers love and what they're not as sold on.
  • Showcasing on Your Agent’s Website (FloridaCustomHomes.com) – Having your house on your agent’s website presents it in a professional way to buyers. And odds are, people visiting your agent’s website are serious and ready to make a move, so this is a smart way to get in front of motivated buyers.
  • Social Networking – Posting your house on social helps get your house in front of buyers who may not have seen it with traditional marketing. It also makes it easy for people to share your listing with friends and loved ones.
  • Providing Virtual Tours – For buyers who are relocating from out of town, virtual tours allow them to check out your house anytime from wherever they are. This helps reach more potential buyers who may not be able to come to see your house in person.
  • Using Video – Video is an excellent way for your agent to show off some of the top features of your house like your kitchen, large closets, outdoor entertainment areas, and other key details that could attract buyers.
  • Sending Emails – Sending out information about your house to your agent’s expansive database is another way they’ll get it in front of even more people. Great agents may even send emails teasing that your house is coming to the market as a way to boost interest and excitement before it officially has an open house. 

Here’s what it comes down to. Most good agents will write a description of your house for the listing and pair it with high-quality photos. But a great agent will do so much more than that.

They’ll not only lean on their expertise, they’ll put in the time and effort to make sure your house makes an impression on buyers, and ultimately, sells.

Bottom Line

As a seller, working with a creative local real estate agent is a smart way to ensure your house grabs the attention of the right buyers. If you’re ready to sell and want to talk about strategies we can use to get your house sold, let’s chat. Scott Meadows - Broker Associate - Premiere Plus Realty - 239.220.1157

Jan. 27, 2025

Holmes Beach Real Estate Market Update

Holmes Beach Homes for Sale

Stay up to date on the current real estate market trends with Holmes Beach Real Estate Market Reports. You'll see up to the minute active listings as they become available, also real estate listings that are currently pending and the most recent sales that have occurred on Holmes Beach, Florida. This will give you the advantage when negotiating the best price for your future Holmes Beach home.  

Jan. 27, 2025

Holmes Beach Homes for Sale

Holmes Beach Homes for Sale 

Holmes Beach Homes for Sale

 

Located on picturesque Anna Maria Island, Holmes Beach offers the desirability of a beach lifestyle, complete with a small-town atmosphere. As one of three communities on the island, Holmes Beach is also the largest. For homebuyers that means some impressive options to choose from in terms of Holmes Beach homes for sale. 

 

Many potential homebuyers come to Holmes Beach with the same vision in mind. Not only is Holmes Beach an incredible destination for tourists and seasonal residents, but also full-time residents in search of a place to call home. The views are hard to surpass, and many of the homes in Holmes Beach capitalize on the unique Gulf Coast island location.

 

With the natural beauty of the sand and water at your disposal, real estate in Holmes Beach, Florida is some of the most exceptional you’ll find in this part of the state. Because life here is a bit quieter and laid-back than some other destinations in Florida, a Holmes Beach lifestyle makes it possible to spend your afternoons out watching dolphins, enjoying watersports or just relaxing on the sand and taking in an incredible sunset at the end of the day.

 

The allure of crystal-clear water and white sand beaches is definitely a big part of what makes purchasing property in this part of Florida so desirable. Homes for sale on Holmes Beach vary in size, style and price point. From Holmes Beach beachfront homes for sale to those within walking distance of the beach and even the golf course, there are plenty of great options for potential buyers to consider. Holmes Beach is a desirable place to buy a full-time home, a seasonable home or an investment property. 

 

Because of the layout of the island, some of the most affordable options in Holmes Beach are still within walking distance of the beach, area boutiques and even restaurants. While these homes are often lower in price than some of the Homes Beach beachfront homes for sale, they also have their own unique advantages. Buyers can choose from a well-maintained cottage with just the right amount of space to store things like paddleboards, bikes and other beach equipment, plus some homes even have enough room to add in private swimming pools. Some of these are mid-century designs that have been nicely updated or are simply ready for a new owner to leave their own personal touch. 

 

There are also some uniquely designed, newer construction homes for sale in Holmes Beach. Some of these home designs include decks with incredible views of the island. While some homes in Holmes Beach are a bit farther from the sand and water, the location can also be an advantageous one for buyers searching in the region. It’s not only possible to walk to the beach, but it’s often just as easy to walk to the nearby market, or other shops and restaurants on the island when living in Holmes Beach. 

 

Depending on your budget, there are some pricier homes in Holmes Beach that not only offer a desirable location, but also plenty of private inclusions and luxuries. With private swimming pools, decks and entertaining space, the homes of Holmes Beach, Florida have a lot to offer potential buyers. Large families, or simply those just in need of a bit more space, will find several options in desirable three- and four-bedroom homes for sale in Holmes Beach, as well. 

 

Those in search of Holmes Beach beachfront homes for sale are in for some exciting options, too. These luxury homes sit right on the beach with views overlooking the warm Gulf waters and the incredible white sand. In addition, some of these beachfront homes also sit within easy access of other area attractions that make them that much more desirable to potential homebuyers.

 

Some real estate in Holmes Beach, Florida also includes the option for canal homes. These types of homes on Holmes Beach making it easy to indulge in a boating lifestyle with private boats docks and more just steps away from your own back door. For those hoping to get in a game of golf from time to time, there’s also the option of purchasing a home in Key Royale Club. 

 

This private golf course is the only one on the island, making it possible for buyers to choose from Old Florida-style homes and even large new estate homes that take advantage of sitting close to both the golf course and the beach. When you enjoy spending your mornings playing golf and your afternoons out on the water, you’re in for the best of both worlds living in Holmes Beach, Florida. 

 

Away from the beach and the golf course, the town also features a number of different restaurants for homebuyers to experience as well, plus art galleries, surf shops and charming gift shops. The town additionally offers things like bike rentals and beach equipment rentals, if you’re ever in need. While it’s possible to walk to many places from the homes of Holmes Beach, there’s also the option of hopping on the free Anna Maria Island Trolley and traveling around the barrier island in comfort and ease.

 

Holmes Beach sits virtually right in the center of Anna Maria Island, with the City of Anna Maria to its north and Bradenton Beach to its south. This charming location is praised for its year-round blue skies and its friendly atmosphere. Whether you’re interested in a more active boating lifestyle with multiple watersports or a more relaxing destination closer to the sand and shore, it’s likely you’ll find what you’re searching for in Holmes Beach, Florida.

 

From cozy two-bedroom homes dating back to the mid-century to sprawling newer construction homes with all of the latest features and finishes, Holmes Beach has plenty of options. Whether it’s more appealing to live close to local conveniences or just steps from the sand and water, the homes for sale in Holmes Beach offer a great deal of opportunities for homebuyers interested in purchasing a property in this part of Florida. 

Jan. 11, 2025

Fort Myers, Florida Real Estate Market Report January 2025

Fort Myers Real Estate Market Report

The Fort Myers Real Estate Market is beginning to heat up for 2025. 

Buyer inventory has rebounded since 2023, stay up to date on the current real estate market trends with Fort Myers Real Estate Market Reports. You'll see up to the minute active listings as they become available, also real estate listings that are currently pending and the most recent sales that have occurred in Fort Myers. This will give you the advantage when negotiating the best price for your future Fort Myers home. 

Jan. 11, 2025

What does Fort Myers, Florida have to offer home buyers in 2025

Fort Myers New Construction Homes for Sale

Fort Myers New Construction Homes

Packed with history and opportunities for fantastic outdoor recreation at nearly every turn, Fort Myers, Florida is a great option for those considering purchasing property in Southwest Florida. The area is renowned for its fishing, its beaches and its shopping. It’s the kind of place where you can spend your days out on the water, out on the golf course, or exploring the many historic and cultural attractions at home in the area. 

From touring the winter estates of Henry Ford and Thomas Edison to the vibrant restaurants and shops of the Fort Myers River District, there’s always something to see and experience in Fort Myers. Of course, the city is also known is many local golf courses and its recreational opportunities, including some of the region’s best beaches, which just so happen to sit conveniently close to many of the homes, condos and properties.

Real estate in Fort Myers, FL is plentiful, but the decision to invest in or purchase a property in is definitely to your advantage. There are some fantastic parks and beaches close to many of the homes and condos. Whether you’re in search of a bit more privacy, plenty of added amenities, or simply the ease of a lower maintenance lifestyle, you are sure to find plenty of opportunities when it comes to real estate.

If you’re interested in purchasing a single-family home, the city is packed with some exciting residential options, including many homes with appealing layouts for retirees, singles and those with families. This includes some newer construction with just the right amount of square footage. Whether you need a single-story home or a two-story home with a larger layout.

Some of these homes are newer construction designs with private swimming pools and plenty of upgrades. You’ll also find homes that tend to be a bit older, but are still well-maintained and full of more recent upgrades and additions. No matter which type of home you desire, you’re sure to find some desirable options to choose from.

It’s no secret that many people come to this part of Florida to enjoy a boating lifestyle, and you’ll easily find that with some of the desirable waterfront homes. Some of these waterfront homes are large estates overlooking nearby ponds with plenty of acreage. There are also some riverfront homes consider, some of which come with a great deal of square footage for grand living and entertaining. Some of these homes also offer the advantage of having their own private boats docks and lifts for the enjoyment of a true Florida boating lifestyle. Just imagine begin able to get out on the river whenever you choose, while also enjoying the many other attributes of a Fort Myers lifestyle. Some of these homes further take advantage of the views with things like outdoor kitchens and plenty of enticing entertaining space.

You don’t necessarily have to have a million-dollar budget to enjoy a waterfront lifestyle, either. There are some sensational waterfront homes capable of fitting in with a variety of budgets. Some of these homes still overlook nearby lakes with private lanais and outdoor space. Depending where you take your homes search, you may find plenty of added community amenities, as well, including nearby golf, tennis and other desirable amenities a short distance away.

If you’re looking for a waterfront property but also the convenience of a low-maintenance lifestyle, you’re able to find that some of the condos are packed with desirable features and amenities. Some condos also overlook area golf courses, allowing buyers to enjoy the best of both worlds. Condos sometimes sit in gated communities with all of the features and finishes buyers are searching for with a new place to call home.

Depending on your budget, you may be able to find a coach home with an attached garage that’s close to some of the most popular sites and attractions in the region. Even if your budget is more limited, you’ll find some great options. Because the price is often attached to the location, the age of the property and the added amenities, you can adjust your condo search to find the property that best fits your needs. The area provides a great deal of options for buyers, with a condo property sure to cover all of your wants and needs. No matter whether you’re searching, a golf course property or real estate looking out over the waterfront, you’re in for some great choices when you take your property search to Fort Myers, Florida.

Jan. 10, 2025

Marco Island Market Update Median Days on Market January 2025

Marco Island Real Estate Market Update Median Days on Market January 2025

Marco Island Real Estate Market is Heating up December/January Median Days on Market

Stay up to date on the current real estate market trends with Marco Island Real Estate Market Reports. You'll see up to the minute active listings as they become available, also real estate listings that are currently pending and the most recent sales that have occurred on Marco Island. This will give you the advantage when negotiating the best price for your future Marco Island home. 

 

Jan. 10, 2025

Marco Island Real Estate Market Update January 2025

Marco Island Real Estate Market Update January 2025

The Marco Island Real Estate Market is heating up for January 2025 - Click image for a complete up to the minute update

Stay up to date on the current real estate market trends with Marco Island Real Estate Market Reports. You'll see up to the minute active listings as they become available, also real estate listings that are currently pending and the most recent sales that have occurred on Marco Island. This will give you the advantage when negotiating the best price for your future Marco Island home.