Real Estate News and Housing Market Trends for Southwest Florida

You’ll find our blog to be a wealth of information, covering everything from local market statistics and home values to community happenings. That’s because we care about the community and want to help you find your place in it. Please reach out if you have any questions at all. We’d love to talk with you!

Aug. 6, 2025

Golf Community in Naples FL

Pelican Marsh Golf Community

pelican Marsh golf community in Naples FL

Pelican Marsh Golf Community- Naples, Florida Luxury Homes

https://floridanapleswaterfront.com/pelican-marsh-golf-community/

Experience the captivating Pelican Marsh Golf Community in Naples, FL—an exquisite destination tailored for those desiring a refined and remarkable lifestyle. This upscale community showcases a stunning array of elegant residences, from luxurious condos with breathtaking views to expansive single-family homes designed for comfort and style. Each property is thoughtfully situated among meticulously landscaped grounds, accented by lush greenery and scenic fairways that create a serene backdrop.

Residents enjoy exclusive access to a prestigious private golf club, complete with a meticulously maintained championship course that caters to golfers of all skill levels. The community also features state-of-the-art fitness facilities, where members can engage in a variety of workout classes or enjoy personalized training sessions. For tennis enthusiasts, the community offers well-maintained courts that encourage casual play and competitive matches.

At the heart of Pelican Marsh lies a vibrant clubhouse that serves as a social hub, hosting a variety of engaging events throughout the year. This venue fosters a sense of community, allowing residents to connect with neighbors, participate in clubs, and attend social gatherings that enhance the overall living experience.

Complementing the luxurious amenities within the community, Pelican Marsh is conveniently located near a plethora of shopping and dining options. Residents can indulge in exquisite culinary experiences or explore boutique shops, all within a short drive. Additionally, the pristine beaches of Naples, known for their soft white sands and stunning sunsets, are just minutes away, offering endless opportunities for relaxation and recreation.

In Pelican Marsh, residents can enjoy the perfect blend of tranquility and convenience, creating an active and fulfilling life surrounded by beauty and sophistication.

As residents of Pelican Marsh, we know the community and its housing inventory, and our clients get daily updates on new listings and price reductions. Suzanne Shafer, a 15-year resident, and Glen Bigness walk, bike, and enjoy the amenities daily so that we may see you at the Courtside Café next to the tennis and pickleball courts.

Contact us today for information, arrange a community tour, or set showing appointments.

239-272-HOME (4663) direct cell number. glenbigness@gmail.com, visit the website for an inventory of homes in Pelican Marsh today, and build a custom MLS search and report today.

https://www.floridanapleswaterfront.com/search/advanced_search/

Member of Who’s Who in Luxury Real Estate, former Broker-Owner, Franchise Manager, Team Leader, and member of 4 large Florida MLS systems for best real estate housing coverage.

 

Aug. 1, 2025

Waterfront New Construction Ft Myers Beach FL

Fort Myers Beach FL new construction waterfront home with Gulf and beach access.

Fort Myers Beach waterfront new construction homes

Winward Homes- Azul Model

Model Home Tour: https://videotour.ai/view-video/1753986276458x657923101616504800

 

Azul’s spiritual meaning is said to help people “unravel the knots that prevent us from experiencing love”. In this context, Azul means “celestial blue”, which is said to be the color of the ocean of love.

The Azul epitomizes modern luxury and architectural sophistication, offering calming views of celestial blue gulf waters. With 4,500 square feet of living space, it features expansive open areas ideal for family gatherings or entertaining friends. The elegant entrance is highlighted by a grand staircase leading to massive 12-foot iron doors.

Inside, you’ll be captivated by soaring ceilings and expansive sliding glass doors that overlook an elevated pool and serene river views. The contemporary design invites natural light from every direction, featuring a two-story great room and a chef’s kitchen with a butler’s pantry designed for entertaining.

The primary bedroom suite provides a romantic setting with floor-to-ceiling windows perfect for enjoying the sunrise. The outdoor living space is expansive, featuring several conversational areas, including a cabana equipped with an outdoor kitchen and bar that overlooks the pool* and water. The custom-designed pool offers a resort-like feel, enhancing the Southwest Florida lifestyle.

All three guest bedrooms include en-suite private bathrooms, and there’s a guest loft for relaxation. The third-floor balcony offers unobstructed views of the water, perfect for sunrises or sunsets. Purposefully designed, the ground floor provides over 2,200 square feet of garage and storage space.

Builder-supplied specs will vary based on lot size, dimensions, setbacks, and buyer selections that affect the final price. * Call for an exact quote based on your build needs.

Windward Construction was founded on a desire to construct custom luxury homes in Southwest Florida. We understand our region’s unique environment and its effect on home structures. Therefore, every building material and process ensures the enduring integrity and beauty of our Windward Signature Homes. Brian’s approach is methodical, with extraordinary precision and attention to every detail from the beginning. This requires our team to have exceptional visualization and imagination to meet and exceed your every wish and desire so that you are ultimately satisfied with your new home. From start to finish, communication, clarity, and delivery on promises sets us apart from many builders with a less than stellar track record and reviews.

 

July 31, 2025

Property Valuation, whats my home worth?

Whats my home worth?

Home Valuation- What's My Home Worth?

Is Now the Right Time to Sell Your Home in SW, FL? 🌞

The real estate market is ever-changing, and sellers need to stay informed. Here’s what you need to know to make the best decisions for your home sale in 2025. 🏡

1. Home Prices Have Stabilized, But Still Competitive

The market has seen some shifts, and prices have begun to stabilize after years of rapid growth. Sellers can still get competitive offers if they price their homes correctly. 🌟Setting the right property price ensures your home attracts serious buyers and stands out in the market to get showings and written offers.

2. Strong Demand for Luxury & Vacation Homes

While overall buyer demand has slightly cooled, the demand for luxury homes and vacation properties in SW Florida is still strong. Sellers who are ready to move quickly can still benefit from a good market, especially with these highly sought-after homes. 🌴

3. Interest Rates Impacting Buyer Activity

Mortgage rates are higher than in previous years, but buyers are finally adjusting to the current market. If you’re looking to sell a property in FL, offering flexible financing options or creative concessions (such as covering some closing costs) can help make your home more attractive to potential buyers. 🏠💡

4. Vacation Properties: A Seller’s Opportunity

Vacation homes in Naples remain popular, but buyers are becoming more selective. If you’re selling a vacation home, now might be the perfect time to offer special incentives, like professional staging or some home improvements, paint, and landscaping are the least costly for returns to make your listing stand out in a competitive market. ⛱️

5. Curb Appeal: First Impressions Matter

The market is competitive, so making your home stand out is more important than ever. Small upgrades to your home’s curb appeal and staging can make a big difference in attracting serious buyers. Don't forget, professional photos and a compelling listing story and marketing can make all the difference to obtain a sale and a successful closing! 📸

https://floridanapleswaterfront.realgeeks.com/selling-your-property/valuation-page-whats-my-home-worth/

 

July 30, 2025

Florida Equestrian Facility for sale.

Equestrian Facility in Florida

SOLD-SOLD-SOLD

Florida equestrian property for sale

3641 Loblolly Bay Rd Labelle, FL 33935

Equestrian estate property with land (38+/- acres), guest house, steel span covered riding arena, barns, storage, and covered equipment parking. The main home is a 2-story, 3-bedroom, 1 and ½ bathroom, with stone floors and granite countertops. The guest house is a 1-bedroom, 1-bath, stilt home, high and dry with a balcony and private entrance from the street. The property presently operates as a private horse farm and small cow operation, a 2000’ grass runway airstrip, small hangar/carport perfect for in-out flights! The farm features engineered metal and concrete barns with utilities, a bathroom, an air-conditioned hay barn, 110- and 220-amp services, multiple water wells on the property, septic and lift stations, drainage culverts, fully fenced and cross-fenced for peace of mind, pastures, and turn. Barn office, tack room, feed room, 6 horse hot walker, all in place, ready to go for your business or breeding-training operation. A 20,000 sq ft 25’ high steel-covered riding arena, 2 separate horse barns ready for your horses this year, here in Florida.

Plenty of room to custom build a larger main residence, we have award-winning architects and luxury builders to assist you with your FL dream home here.

Breeding, Boarding, Training-Lesson Facility! Bring the horses and winter here in Florida this year.

Glen Bigness, Realtor is a recognized leader in the real estate industry serving 15 FL counties.

Clients use his services to Buy, Sell, Build and Invest in Florida real estate. 239-272-4663

 

 

July 14, 2025

Property Valuation Report, Market Trends, Neighborhood Sales Activity and FEMA

Property Valuation Report, Market Trends, and Neighborhood Sales Activity including FEMA

 

Why do homeowners love ePropertyWatch?
Ever go to an online real estate site to check out what your home is worth? Curious about nearby homes that are for sale or recently sold? How about how much your home might be worth in the next two years? With ePropertyWatch, that information (and much more) comes directly to you.
Property Market Report, home valuation and neighborhood sales data.

What is ePropertyWatch?

It's about you

ePropertyWatch delivers information about YOUR home and neighborhood straight to your inbox. Not some dry, dull report about your town - it's tailored just for you.

Your home's value

Markets are dynamic and home values are constantly changing. With ePropertyWatch, you'll keep your finger on the pulse of your home's ever changing value. After all, your home is probably your #1 asset, so we'll help you know where you stand!

Forecast

Not only will you see what your home is worth today, but you'll also see the industry's leading "home price index" forecast for what your home might be worth years from now. That's great for planning your real estate future.

Your neighbors

With ePropertyWatch, you'll know exactly what is happening around you. From sales to rentals to foreclosures - you'll have your finger on the pulse of your neighborhood!

July 10, 2025

Hideaway Beach Club on Marco island FL

Hideaway Beach Club Marco Island FL

Hideaway Beach Club on Marco Island FL 34145

https://www.floridanapleswaterfront.com/hideaway-beach-club-marco-island-fl/   

WEBSITE MLS LINK

 

https://www.hideawaybeachclub.org/

https://www.hideawaybeachclub.org/community/files?FGRPCODE=CR

 

If you would like to schedule a Club-provided tour, please contact us, and we will set up a time for you and your clients to get an official tour of the Clubhouse, Sports Center, and property.

Hideaway Beach Club, Marco island FL

 

The Habitat, a prestigious condominium enclave nestled in the serene Hideaway Beach community's north end on Marco Island. Crafted in 1988, The Habitat boasts 52 opulent condominiums ranging in size from 2,480 to 3,134 square feet of lavish living space. Each condo comprises two bedrooms and either 2.5 or 3 bathrooms, with the larger floor plans featuring a generously proportioned den, suitable for use as a third bedroom.

The Habitat goes beyond luxurious living, offering an array of exceptional amenities that enhance your lifestyle. Immerse yourself in our clubhouse, unwind by the pool and spa, perfect your swing on the golf course, enjoy a match on our tennis courts, stay active in the fitness center, and let your little ones explore the playground. With covered parking and pet-friendly policies allowing one small dog or two cats, The Habitat is designed to cater to your every need, making it the ultimate destination for sophisticated, coastal living.

Royal Marco Point 2 consists of 112 beachfront homes spread within a 9-story, mid-rise condominium building.

Royal Marco Pointe 3- The Royale is a 7-story luxury condominium located just 50 paces from a pristine sandy sun-swept beach where the Marco River meets the Gulf of Mexico. With just 78 luxury units, The Royale has a friendly and neighborly environment, with its own private pool including a lap pool area and a spa, a pool building with showers and facilities and lounging areas. Situated at the end of Royal Marco Way, it is a quiet and peaceful location, with little noise or traffic. The pool is not behind the building, which adds to the peacefulness.

The Villas at Royal Marco Point is composed of 6 luxury beach villas.

 

Hideaway Beach Club is a tight-knit community that is more than just a place to reside on Marco Island FL; it's a vibrant, thriving family of individuals who share a passion for the breathtaking beauty of Marco Island and the finer things in life here. Upon your visit here you'll find not only a stunning natural backdrop of pristine Florida beaches and lush tropical landscapes but also a warm and welcoming group of friends and neighbors who gather for events, activities, and shared community experiences. Explore the various ways you can become a part of this exceptional FL gated community, from social gatherings to charitable events, and discover why Hideaway Beach Club is more than a residence; it's a lifestyle that enriches the meaning of the good life, Florida style!

Designed by Gordon Lewis, our 9-hole Executive Golf Course is designed to challenge the everyday golfer yet promote the native beauty of Florida. The course offers three sets of tees, five Par 4s, and four Par 3s which provide a fun experience for all levels of players. Members enjoy weekly scrambles, events, and tournaments.

Take advantage of our 9 Hydro-Grid soft tennis courts that offer both League and Weekly Open Play to Members. Our tennis staff offers lessons for every player as well as clinics, tournaments, and special events.

Hideaway is home to two pickleball courts, located beside our 9 tennis courts. At the Pickleball Courts you will find viewing tables and chairs to cheer on your fellow members. Clinics and Open Play times are offered throughout the week.

Hideaway Beach Club, Marco Island's distinctly upscale community for those seeking the perfect home in a stunning coastal paradise. Settled within the breathtaking 300+ acres of secluded grounds, our exclusive sugar sand beaches set us apart as the unrivaled choice for members. At Hideaway Beach Club, our mission is to cultivate a strong sense of community among our esteemed members.

With boardwalks for nature studies at natural lagoons, shelling, fishing, a Sports Center complex, and a Gulf front Beach Club that hosts an array of entertainment and exquisite dinners to satisfy any appetite, Hideaway Beach Club is an excellent place to call home. We recognize the privilege of residing in this remarkable coastal setting and aim to advance our community as one of the foremost residential destinations of its kind. At Hideaway Beach Club, our dedication to excellence is not only a promise but a way of life here.

 marco Island FL, Hideaway Beach Club

Hideaway Beach Club is thrilled to unveil the exciting development of our state-of-the-art Sports & Wellness Center! We are delighted to present rendered photos that will provide you with an immersive preview of this incredible addition. Our new facility will offer 4,140 sq. ft. of fitness space complete with a men's & women's steam room, four group exercise rooms totaling 3,550 sq. ft., and 2 physical therapy rooms. With the potential for future expansion, this remarkable building is designed to exceed expectations.

Moreover, the Sports and Wellness Center will be home to our esteemed Pro Shop and a delightful café, ensuring that all your needs are met under one roof. Prepare to embark on an unparalleled journey of health and wellness at Hideaway Beach Club's magnificent new Sports & Wellness Center.

June 26, 2025

Naples FL waterfront homes with boat dock and Gulf access.

Naples, FL waterfront homes with dock and Gulf access.

Use the link below to see all boating properties for sale:

https://floridanapleswaterfront.realgeeks.com/new-waterfront-homes-naples-florida/ 

 

Naples FL boating property for sale.

We offer our clients access to the area's finest luxury residential home builders in SW Florida. Find the best award-winning custom luxury builders, contractors, architects, and home designs- we arrange all the tours and property showings!

Since 1986, we have been bringing buyers and builders together. please, we offer our clients over 30 years of real estate and construction experience, and are New Home Certified Agents. Please contact us at your convenience to meet and discuss your plans, time frame, and desires in a Florida waterfront home.

We sell new construction waterfront in Collier, Lee, Sarasota, Pinellas, and Hillsborough counties in Florida.

  • Waterfront Living
  • Intracoastal Property
  • Gulf Access Homes
  • Salt Water Canal Boating Property
  • River with Gulf Access Locations
  • Beachfront Residences
June 25, 2025

What's My Home Worth?

What's My Home Worth? property Valuation Tool

LOOKING to sell or know someone who is considering selling?
Use our VALUATION Tool to start the process today. Get a general "feel" for what the market is like in your neighborhood. See what buyers are seeing when searching online for property in your area.
We can do a complete and thorough Market Analysis when we preview your property and sit down to discuss property details, real estate market trends, and MLS sales data relevant to YOUR property.
FORGET rough estimates from Zillow, Trulia, Redfin, and other "third-party" sites claiming they "know" the value of YOUR home. We walk through with you, getting relevant data, improvements, updates, crucial replacements, and lot location, condition, and neighborhood features affecting property value.

For over thirty years a trusted real estate resource for my family, friends, and clients. 239-272-HOME

 

Glen Bigness, Certified Luxury Agent, Fine Homes and Estates, New Home Designated, Relocation Agent, former Broker-Owner and Franchise Manager, Century 21.

 

June 24, 2025

Path to Homeownership Florida

Path to Homeownership, Florida Programs

Pathway to Homeownership, programs in Florida.

Path to Homeownership-State of Florida

The "Florida path to homeownership program" generally refers to programs and resources offered by the Florida Housing Finance Corporation (Florida Housing) and other organizations that aim to help individuals and families achieve homeownership in the state. 

These programs typically include:

First Mortgage Options:

  • Florida Housing Homebuyer Loan Program: Offers 30-year fixed-rate mortgages to first-time homebuyers through approved lenders.
  • Florida First Government Loans: Provides FHA, VA, and USDA loans.
  • Florida Hometown Heroes Housing Program: Offers lower interest rates and reduced upfront fees for eligible frontline workers and veterans. 

Down Payment and Closing Cost Assistance:

  • Florida Assist: A deferred, 0% interest second mortgage providing up to $10,000 in assistance.
  • Florida Homeownership Loan Program (FL HLP): Offers up to $10,000 as a 3% interest second mortgage with a 15-year term.
  • FL PLUS: Provides 3%, 4%, or 5% of the total loan amount as a forgivable second mortgage.
  • Salute Our Soldiers PLUS: Offers forgivable loans for service members, veterans, and their surviving spouses.
  • Local Down Payment Assistance Programs: Some cities and counties, like Orlando and Miami, offer their own programs. 

Eligibility Requirements:

  • First-Time Homebuyer Status: You must not have owned and occupied your primary residence for the past three years (veterans and buyers in targeted areas may be exempt).
  • Minimum Credit Score: Generally, a minimum credit score of 640 is required.
  • Income and Purchase Price Limits: Your income and the purchase price must be below the limits for the county where you are buying.
  • Homebuyer Education: Completion of an approved homebuyer education class is often mandatory.
  • Approved Lender: You must work with a program-approved lender. 

How to Apply:

  1. Check Your Credit: Ensure you meet the minimum credit score requirements.
  2. Find an Approved Lender: Utilize Florida Housing's online tool to find a participating lender.
  3. Get Preapproved: Obtain mortgage preapproval from the lender.
  4. Explore Down Payment Assistance: If needed, identify a DPA program that meets your needs.
  5. Complete a Homebuyer Education Class: Find and complete an approved course.
  6. Find a Home and Finalize Your Loan: Work with a real estate agent and lender to select a home and complete the loan process.
  7. Close on Your Home: Sign the necessary documents and receive your keys. 

Important Notes:

  • Eligibility criteria can vary by program and county, so it's essential to check the specific requirements of each program.
  • Down payment assistance programs often come with repayment terms, such as deferred repayment or monthly payments.
  • Some programs are forgivable after a specific period.
  • It's recommended to work with a HUD-approved housing counselor for advice on your specific housing needs. 

To determine your eligibility and get started, you can use Florida Housing's online tools or contact a participating lender. Contact your lender or call us for a list of lenders in our area.

Glen Bigness, Premiere Plus Realty glenbigness@gmail.com  

239-272-4663 direct number.

Our registered buyer clients receive a FREE Home Inspection Report a $500 VALUE, limited time offer, restrictions apply*

Lenders and Resources:

https://southernfloridamortgages.com

https://www.midflorida.com/personal/home-loans/mortgages/first-time-buyer

https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/mortgages/florida-first-time-home-buyer-programs

https://www.floridahousing.org/programs/homebuyer-overview-page

June 10, 2025

Fort Myers Beach FL Community News

Gulfside Twelve Beachfront New Construction Condos

Community News for Fort Myers Beach FL, June 2025

Fort Myers Beach is actively undergoing new construction and rebuilding following Hurricane Ian, with projects ranging from pier reconstruction to residential developments. Specifically, the Gulfside Twelve beachfront condominium project. Fort Myers Beach pier is being rebuilt, expected to be twice the original size and complete by 2027. 

Specific Projects:

  • Seagate Development Beachfront Project: This project includes luxury condominiums, parks, open spaces, a beach club, new dining, and custom villas, emphasizing both modern comfort and island charm. 
  • Gulfside Twelve Development beachfront new construction condominiums for sale.

    Fort Myers Beach Pier Reconstruction: The pier is being rebuilt to be significantly larger than before, with completion anticipated by 2027. 

    Beach Renourishment: The Estero Island Shoreline Protection Project, also known as the Beach Re-nourishment Project, will dredge sand to create an engineered beach. Construction is scheduled to begin in late spring or early summer 2024, according to the Town of Fort Myers Beach (.gov). 

    Island Wide Lighting Project: This project is scheduled to begin in July 2024. 

    Tennis and Pickleball Courts: Bay Oaks Park is resurfacing its existing tennis courts and plans to install new pickle-ball courts. 

  • Improvements to public beach parking are underway.

Residential Developments:

  • Several new construction projects are underway, including Gulfside Twelve on the beach.
  • Continued lot clean-up and rebuilding of single-family homes on the island.

Fort Myers Beach new construction beachfront condos for sale.