It’s Valentine’s Day weekend and Naples is at the height of Season. Yes, traffic is a bit heavier than it was during the summer, and we’ve had a few crisp days when a sweater felt great. But today the skies are deep blue, a gentle breeze rustles the palms, and things look perfect around here!

Have a couple of hours? Get in your car, and cruise around our beautiful area. Here are a few things you might discover:

Down in Everglades City, try out City Seafood. Everything is fresh and local, and you’ll get lots of the unique “local color” that comes with a trip into the Everglades. Eat there, and bring home some fresh snapper for tomorrow.

Pick up chocolates made to perfection at Norman Love Chocolates.Too late for Valentine’s Day? No worries! Norman Love’s wonderful confections are available every day of the year!

Don’t forget our miles and miles of beach. Whether you’re in it for paddle boarding, fitness walking, some serious shelling, or just meandering…take advantage of beach time from Marco all the way to Lover’s Key. You can pack up for a full day, or just toss your chair into the car and hang out for a short while. 

Coming up in March, Theater Zone is staging Sondheim’s “Into the Woods.” Get your tickets now!

Evening at the Mercato is always lively! From the Pub to the Naples Wine Bar to nightlife at the Blue Martini, you’ll enjoy countless dining options, have fun browsing the wide array of shops, and mingling. Valet parking is available near Silverspot Cinema and near Bravo! 

Art is in bloom this season! On Feb. 20-21, take in the Naples National Art Festival at Cambier Park. Keep an eye toward the park for music too, with free offerings almost every Sunday. Take in Dixieland, Jazz, or favorites from local musicians. 

Right around the corner, the Naples Craft Beer Festival hits Bayfront on March 5. 

In it to win it? Put your cards on the table at the Seminole Immokalee Casino. You’ll feel like you’re off the beaten track as you head east toward Immokalee, where you’ll find a little taste of Vegas. The casino offers slots, table games, and poker. Ante up!

Take a morning or afternoon on the water with a Pure Naples cruise, starting at Tin City. Choose a sunset cruise, visit dolphins, or go shelling on Keewadin Island. When you get back to Tin City, see what’s new at the Naples Soap Company and browse the offerings at the Monkey Bread Factory. Bet you can’t resist!

Roll down the windows, take a deep breath, and enjoy your day cruising Naples!

If you’re wondering how last year stacked up in terms of real estate here in Naples, this is the blog post for you. Let’s take a look at 2015 in review - a little look back may help you understand the market as we move ahead in 2016. 

What single word describes the 2015 real estate market?

In a word: Stable.

What price segments are moving fastest?

The $300,000 - $500,000 price category experienced the most dramatic increase in pending sales. Here, we saw a a solid 20% increase in sales over 2014. 

How about the condo market?

The condo market trend echoes the single-family home market. Closed sales for condominiums in the $300,000 to $500,000 price category increased 26 percent in 2015. 

What’s the story on home prices?

Here is where we see some real change at both ends of the market. Homes below $300,000 as well as those above $2 million saw sharp increases. Homes in the middle stayed relatively balanced, but the broad-brush picture shows a 14% increase in Naples home prices during 2015. 

Haven’t all the good properties been snapped up by now?

This question gets at our inventory of homes for sale. You may be surprised to know that the inventory for most price categories increased in 2015. 

Only the price segment below $300,000 saw a reduction in inventory. This impacts every geographic area of our market, most notably South Naples and East Naples. 

When we look at homes over $2 million, we see a 13% increase in inventory. 

Are homes still moving fast?

You bet. Desirable homes move quickly, especially in prime locations. Average days on the market decreased 10% in 2015…but the most notable change was in condominiums priced $2 million and above. Here, the average days on the market plummeted 40%. Buyers still need to be poised and ready to move when we spot a property that is right for them!

What’s going to happen in 2016?

While it’s true that no one can see around the next corner, we have just finished two great years for real estate in Naples. This area continues to be highly desirable. As I’ve said before in this blog…there’s Florida, and then there is Naples. Our area is highly desirable for those moving to Florida, and this only strengthens our market. 

Overall market activity in 2015 made great strides. We see a market that is stable and contributes to making Naples a wonderful place to live!

Naples is a dynamic community! We are always evolving and changing for the better, and those changes create a town with great ambience and character. 

So what’s new in Naples for 2016?

The Pier!  But the Pier isn’t new! Well, 2015 brought extensive renovation to this Naples landmark, now over 120 years old. Be sure to visit - the change is described as “night and day” by locals. The Pier is a great place to fish (no license required), watch for dolphins and pelicans, or take a shelling walk at low tide. 

Awards!  USA Today readers recently named Naples the top luxury vacation destination, beating out spots like Aspen, Maui, and Beverly Hills. What’s not to love? Check out the readers’ picks of places to visit around town! http://www.justluxe.com/travel/luxury-vacations/feature-1961846.php

Happiness!  The University of British Columbia (Canada) has named Naples as the 4th happiest city in the US! Whether you’re inspired by nature and wildlife, culture, or a vibrant downtown - Naples residents find something to smile about! http://www.news-press.com/story/news/local/naples/2014/07/26/naples-plenty-reasons-smile/13195077/?from=global&sessionKey=&autologin=

Economic Growth! The Naples area ranks No. 1 on the Best Cities for Future Job Growth, according to Forbes. On the international news scene, Arabian News listed Naples among the top 10 US cities for luxury home sales (defined as sales of homes over $10 million). In the US, a Coldwell-Banker survey ranked Naples in the Top Ten markets for home sales over $1 million, over $5 million, and over $10 million. Now, even if your price range is a bit more modest - Naples continues to catch the eye of the national and international markets and real estate investment here continues to be solid. 

Turtles! A different kind of loggerhead sea turtle has come to nest in Collier County this season. Instead of burrowing in the sand, these four-foot-tall, 75-pound turtles are scattered around town—everywhere from the Naples Pier to The Mercato—in Naples’ newest public art exhibition to benefit local charities. Each of the 50 turtles has been uniquely embellished by a local artist and will remain on display through February 2016.

Whether you come to Naples to enjoy a few old favorites or to explore something new - there's lots to enjoy in 2016. Hope to see you soon!

Are you browsing Naples real estate online? 

See a home listing that catches your eye?

Wonder exactly what’s happening in the Naples real estate market these days? Is that eye-catcher a good deal, or should you hold out for something better? 

Every month, the Naples Area Board of Realtors issues a market report that provides more information about the Naples real estate market than you can imagine. A look at this month’s report gives us some information that may help with your decision about that eye-catching home listing. 

Home inventory - the number of homes listed for sale - is actually up slightly, especially in the single-family home market.  And overall sales numbers are stable, when compared to this time last year. Hidden within that “overall” number, however, is an increase in pending sales for luxury homes priced between $1 million and $2 million. Here, we see strong growth, with pending sales up 27% over last year’s numbers. 

What’s changing, too, is home pricing. Overall median closed price of homes in Naples increased 15% over last year. 

What does this mean for buyers? These distinct trends stand out: 

• Single-family home shoppers may discover a bit more to choose from right now,
• Prices continue to move up,
• Competition for the most desirable homes in our luxury market is strong, and 
• Homes under $300,000 continue to move fast. And here, the inventory of available homes is down significantly - down 20% over last year, and down 42% from 2013. There’s no shortage of buyers for properties under $300,000! First time buyers, investors, retirees….all would love to own a piece of paradise!

The bottom line is this: Whether you are looking for an affordable home or a luxury property, there isn’t much time for serious buyers to shop around. If you spot that eye-catching home online or in your travels around Naples, you’ll need to move faster to submit an offer to get ahead of other potential buyers who are looking at the same property.

So if you are browsing Naples real estate online…if you see a home listing that catches your eye…don’t delay! Move quickly and give me a call!

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The holiday season is here, and Naples does the holidays in style!

Take your pick from any number of holiday events and activities - there is something going on almost every day through this beautiful season. 

A local treasure awaits in the Victoria Park Neighborhood off Airport-Pulling Rd. north of Vanderbilt Beach. The entire neighborhood lights up as residents provide a showcase of themed holiday decorations. Make this a special trip, or simply drive through on your way home from dinner one evening during December. You’ll be asked to turn off your headlights and creep along at 5 mph. as you soak in the unique community spirit of Victoria Park. There is no charge for admission - residents consider it a gift to the community. 

Voices of Naples  take you “Home for the Holidays” in their annual concert on December 7 at 7 pm. No tickets are needed for this event at Emmanual Lutheran Church.

Who doesn’t love a parade? The annual Naples Christmas Parade is a holiday highlight, set for December 8 at 6 pm. The parade route travels from Broad Ave  to 3rd Street South, to 5th Ave South, and end on 8th Street South.

Come back downtown on December 10 for Naples’ traditional Evening on Fifth. You’ll feel the holiday spirit with and evening of music, dining, and shopping. Fifth Avenue is a lovely destination any time, but especially at Christmas time!

The evening of December 12, check out the Naples Bay Boat Parade at 6:30 pm. View the boats from Tin City or Crayton Cove. Where else will you see luxurious vessels decked out for the holidays? It adds a uniquely “Florida feel” to your holiday season. 

Starting December 16 and running on selected evenings through January 3, you’ll love Night Lights 2015 at the Naples Botanical Gardens. The beautiful gardens will be adorned with thousands of lights. You’ll enjoy special music and family activities throughout the evening. 

In the mood for something a little different? Stroll down Fifth Avenue South on December 17 to enjoy TUBA Christmas. In combination with the Naples Carolers, you’ll enjoy a festive musical evening. 

Santa makes a special stop at Waterside Shops on December 19 and 20 from 1-4 pm. Don’t miss it! 

Also on December 19, kids of all ages will enjoy the Santa in Wonkaland event at The Mercato. From 11-1, you’ll enjoy face painting, balloon art, treats, and even a chance to meet members of author Roald Dahl’s family. 

Finally, ring in the new year with another Naples tradition: fireworks at the newly renovated Naples Pier. The show starts at 7:30 pm so you’ll have plenty of time for merriment afterward. Arrive early for good parking - and the show is visible at beaches all the way up to Vanderbilt Beach, so consider those options as well. 

Naples does indeed sparkle throughout the holiday season. Music, lights, and plenty of smiles will greet you as you explore all that Naples has to offer. May each of you find plenty to celebrate!

This week, we saw significant news about the overall business climate in Naples. The area added some 4,000 new jobs over the past year, and unemployment dropped to 5.2% locally. Where is the growth? Education, health, leisure, and hospitality industries lead the pack. 

And a good business climate leads to a strong market for housing. We’re ramping up for what we expect to be a strong winter sales season where real estate is concerned. 

Let’s take a look at what’s happening right now. 

We know that inventory of homes on the market has been skimpy over recent months - but that trend seems to be moderating to some degree as we head toward the holidays and set the stage for the winter season. Across most of the area, the inventory of single family homes is on the upswing.  What a relief for home shoppers! You’ll find more choices right now, especially in North Naples, and in the $500,000 to $1 million price bracket. 

The condo market is a slightly different story. Overall, the inventory of condos for sale is down slightly over last year at this time. Condo shoppers will find selection is still snug, and we will need to keep a close eye out for the unit that is right for your needs!

Often, we look at the simple law of supply and demand to explain pricing trends in real estate. Typically, as supply goes down, prices increase. Surprisingly, some segments of our Naples real estate market don’t follow that time tested law. For example, the median closed price of single-family homes in the $2 million and above price segment rose 15%, yet the inventory in that same price segment rose 17 percent in the same time period. As baby boomers continue to retire and cast an eye toward the Gulf Coast, we can expect demand to remain strong for Naples luxury properties. 

It’s a complex market, and our local Board of Realtors recommends that buyers listen closely to advice from their Realtor, who knows how to interpret these market trends. I am eager to work with you as “Season” begins here in Naples, whether you are beginning your home search or feel that the time is finally right for you to make the big move! 

It’s underway!

Whether your interests lean toward the classics, broadway, movies, art, or the oldies, you’ll find something to enjoy this season at Artis Naples.

Located on Pelican Bay Boulevard near the Waterside Shops, Artis Naples is truly the jewel in the crown of the Naples performing arts scene. If you’re making your first visit, take time explore this beautiful arts complex that includes the 1477 seat Hayes Hall, the more intimate 289 seat Daniels Pavilion, The Baker Museum, and the Stabile Education Building. 

Let me hit a few highlights of the extensive Artis Naples offerings this year to get you started. 

Of course, there is lots more, and you’ll want to check this website and box office for tickets that fit your tastes.

In November:

• This week it’s Mannheim Steamroller on November 11. 
• Usher in the Christmas season with Grammy-winning saxophonist Dave Koz on November 28. 

In December:

• The Miami City Ballet visits Naples on December 5 and 6 for The Nutcracker.
• For those who love the oldies, who can resist Neil Sedaka on December 13?
• The Naples Philharmonic, Chorus, and Youth Chorus ring in the holidays with an annual treat - Holiday Pops the weekend of December 17-20. 
• Opera Naples takes the stage for Die Fledermaus on December 22. 

In January:

• Don’t miss! Kristin Chenoweth with the Naples Philharmonic on January 10.
• And don’t miss this one either! Renee Fleming with the Naples Philharmonic on January 19. 
• It’s Motown The Musical on January 26-31. 

In February:

• Enjoy a magical evening with a little magic by Nate Staniforth on February 5.
• Take in a truly unique performance as Yanni takes the stage in Hayes Hall on February 8. 
• Bring your Valentine to celebrate 107 Years of Broadway with the most beloved classic hits on February 14. 
• The Naples Philharmonic celebrates 100 Years of Sinatra February 23-27. 

In March:

• Naples hosts the Vienna Philharmonic on March 1-2. 
• Take in the Joffrey Ballet on March 8. 
• Laughter is the ticket with Late Night Catechism’s “Till Death Do Us Part” on March 16-19.

In April:

• Enjoy an unforgettable evening with Natalie Cole on April 3.
• The Naples Philharmonic goes country with its Country Legends concert on April 30. 

In May:

• Patriotic Pops is an annual tradition! See it on May 19-20. 
• As the season draws to a close, the Naples Philharmonic and Youth Orchestra perform side-by-side in a Summer Spectacular evening on May 29. 

This list doesn’t begin to tell it all. Artis Naples offers enticing lecture series and lifelong learning, community outreach, and art education. Be sure to dive in and find what interests you this season!

There’s a pumpkin on the front porch, school busses get an early start every morning, and sunset comes a little earlier these days. It’s fall in Naples!

In real estate, that means local market data lets us look back on what’s happened in Naples real estate this summer.

Sometimes, it’s easy to get stuck in the “myths” about Florida real estate. But Naples defies those myths in all kinds of markets. Here are a few “Mythbusters” that will give you a clear view of what’s happening around Naples these days. 

Myth #1: Everybody’s buying at the beach. 

The Reality: The strongest real estate activity in Naples this summer was in our inland communities. Specific areas that showed strong buyer interest this summer were:

• South Naples, where the condominium market was especially lively,
• East Naples, the area east of Collier Blvd. 
• Central Naples, the area between US 41 and Collier Blvd.,, south of Pine Ridge Rd. 

It’s not that beachfront properties are no longer desirable - far from it! - but many of these homes were the first to turn over during the market slowdown about five years ago. 

Myth #2: Everybody’s buying with cash.

The Reality: Cash sales continue to drive over 50% of the Naples real estate market, but home financing is making a return. Strong interest through the summer months, coupled with more home buyers seeking traditional financing, is an indicator of full time families headed to Naples. 

Myth #3: Bargain Priced Homes are where the action is.

The Reality: During Summer 2015 sales in the $1 million to $2 million price category outpaced all other categories with an incredible 79% increase over the same quarter last year. High end single family homes were an exceptional segment of the market this summer. In fact, single family homes over $300,000 saw consistent double-digit increases in closed sales this summer. 

You may be surprised to learn that the “under $300,000” price category is no longer the largest category of home inventory in Naples, as it has been in the past. Due to increased home values, many homes that were once listed under $300,000 have crept up in price, placing them in a higher price category. 

Myth #4: Prices are sure to drop soon. This is just another “bubble.”

The Reality: Home prices in Naples continue to move upward, and have consistently moved upward month after month over the past several years. Inventory of homes for sale is low right now, so demand for desirable properties is strong - and that means that prices will remain steady or climb. Our area continues to be a desirable destination for domestic and international buyers, for families and retirees, and for year-round residents and snowbirds alike. Our unique geography, easy access to the Gulf of Mexico beaches, great schools and public services, and top flight medical care will continue to attract buyers. 

My clients will want to stay well informed of market trends and keep in close touch as season gets underway. Let’s talk soon to find the right home for you!

Years back, the conventional wisdom around Florida real estate was that summer was our “slow” season. 

No more! Realtors are busy!

For the last few years, we’ve seen the summer market build steadily, and this summer has certainly continued the upward momentum.

What’s happening? Let’s take a look! 

As always, we look at three main indicators of market performance: inventory of available homes, number of sales, and price. 

How’s the inventory? Here’s where the surprise lies. Last year at this time, we had seen a month-after-month decrease in the inventory of available homes; this year, however, our overall inventory of single family homes for sale is up 7%. While not a dramatic increase, this means that single family home buyers will see more choices available in the single family home market. 

Condo buyers, however, will continue to see snug inventories. Condo living remain a popular option in Naples, and the number of sales is up dramatically over last year. Here’s what that looks like in one popular market segment: In the price range between $300 - 500,000, market statistics show almost 1,000 condo units sold over the past year! 

In general, Naples property sales are booming, especially in the price category of $300,000 and up. In fact, overall pending sales are up a whopping 23% over last year at this time. In the price category of $1 million plus, home sales have also jumped, for both single family homes and condos. Even if you are looking at more moderately priced properties, it’s worth keeping an eye on this “high end” market traffic; this is the market segment that is more often quiet during the summer months, and the activity at the higher price points gives an added indication of overall trends across the Naples market. 

For homes under $300,000, tighter inventory continues to be a challenge. This summer, inventory of modestly priced homes is down significantly, a full 26% less than last year at this time. Even though other price categories saw an upswing in the number of homes for sale, those who are seeking a home or condo in this price range will need to watch inventory carefully. My advice is to work closely with your Realtor to keep a close eye on properties coming onto the market and be ready to act quickly!

And finally, what about prices this summer?  

Overall, prices are up significantly, with a 14% increase over last year. Prices climbed most significantly in market segment of homes $2 million and above. 

As you consider the options for your next home in Naples, I’d love to work with you to navigate this dynamic market - at any time of year! 

It’s Summer! The Snowbirds have travelled north, but our area remains a popular destination for vacationers.  Visitors and “locals” alike enjoy lighter traffic and lots to do.

What’s happening this summer in Naples?

Get Outdoors! Yes, we are prone to afternoon rains, but getting up and out early allows you to enjoy our beautiful surroundings before clouds typically roll in. Try a morning walk through the Naples Botanical Gardens (open 8 - 3), or check out the Conservancy of Southwest Florida Nature Center (Mon.-Sat. 9:30 - 4:30) for a boat tour, bird-watching, or the Discovery Center Sea Turtle exhibit. Take a morning beach walk, or meander out on the Pier. You just might spot a school of dolphins, even in the shallow waters!

Enjoy a Free Concert! Bring the family to The Mercato throughout the month of July for a variety of performers such as Rockin’ Horse on July 2^nd from 6 – 9pm. The Naples Beach Hotel also offers monthly jazz concerts on the lawn in July, August, and September.

Eat Fresh and Local!  Our farmer’s markets continue throughout the summer months, including those at the Government Complex, Third Street South, and the indoor market at the Galleria Shoppes at Vanderbilt (now open Friday and Saturday through the summer).

Get Literary!  The Collier County Library continues its fine programming of book discussions and films through the summer months. The library offers a great variety of children’s programming through the summer, as well.

Catch a Movie! The Naples International Film Festival offers screenings of a wide variety of international films at the Silverspot Cinema through September. Admission includes informal discussion of the film, as well as a beverage and snack. For those with children, check out the Hollywood Theater’s $1 summer kid flicks every Tuesday at 10 am, or Mommy Matinee Mondays at Silverspot Cinemas. The Mercato offers a full lineup of free movies under the stars through the month of July.

Create Your Own Gallery Crawl! Start at the Von Liebig Center for the Arts; this summer you’ll have the chance to view two excellent exhibits, “Breaking Through with Color,” and “Camera USA 2014.” Then head to Ninth St. North to the Harmon-Meek Gallery’s exhibit, “In the Presence of Sacred Light: The Master Watercolors of Timothy J. Clark.”

Plan a Night at the Theater! The Naples Players’ summer musical is always a treat, but this year will be a blockbuster with Legally Blonde. Get your tickets early!

Tune in to Local History! The Collier County Museum offers free admission. Current exhibits are “Florida’s Final Frontier” and “The History of Transportation in Collier County.” Or take a tour of Palm Cottaage (Tues.-Sat. 11-4) to learn about Naples’ earliest settlers.

Dine on a Dime!  Many local restaurants offer top quality cuisine and wine specials during the summer months. Check out your favorites, or try something new; look for “buy one get one” specials, dinner packages including a bottle of wine, or discount coupons in local papers and online

Without a doubt, Naples offers summer visitors and year-round residents lots of options for summer fun!