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!

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.

 

June 8, 2025

Old Naples luxury homes for sale.

Olde Naples Florida Homes for Sale

Naples Florida Map

Old Naples is a charming area characterized by hundreds of coconut palms with each avenue ending at the Gulf of Mexico beach. It is a unique neighborhood with a variety of small cottages, beach front estates, villas, condominiums and new construction. It is often defined as the area that extends from South Golf Drive southward to Aqualane Shores, although the true "Old Naples" refers primarily to the section around the Naples Pier.

The vintage of homes in the area varies from turn-of-the-century to the modern present date, and architectural styles reflect this variety of time periods. There is also an excellent selection of condominiums of various ages; all within a few blocks of the Gulf of Mexico.

An interesting aspect of the area is that every east/west avenue ends at the beach, creating easy walking or biking access for all Old Naples residents. You will notice that one of the favorite activities of the neighborhood is to go to the beach at dusk to watch another spectacular Naples sunset.



 

June 8, 2025

Luxury property for sale in Pelican Marsh Golf Community

Pelican Marsh Golf Community

 

Are You Buying or Selling in Pelican Marsh?

Part of the reason Premiere Plus Realty is so successful at selling homes quickly – and at the right price – is that our firm knows how to market luxury properties to all the right buyers. Call us today or fill out the form below to find out how we’ll put your home in front of well-qualified and interested buyers.

Residents of Pelican Marsh for 18 years now, LOVE it here and buyers will too! Suzanne Shafer, Realtor and Glen Bigness, Realtor

 

Pelican Marsh a gated golf community in Naples FL 34109

 

 

Pelican Marsh is ideally located in North Naples about 1.5 miles from one of the area’s best beaches. Shopping and dining facilities at Mercato are within blocks; the community is close to Artis-Naples, the area’s premier cultural venue.

Pelican Marsh offers beautifully landscaped communities and roads. Lakes are numerous within the 1,100 + acres of Pelican Marsh and the 133 acres of nature preserves provide a perfect environment for wildlife, watch for eagles, osprey, pelicans and wading birds along with other wildlife. Photogenic pool and lake fountains are located throughout this upscale gated community.

Residents enjoy several amenities that are continually expanded and improved. Center Court, the name for the tennis facilities, was recently expanded. The programs for both avid and casual tennis buffs are numerous and available to all property owners. The Community Center, adjacent to Center Court, houses the fitness center, spa facilities, computer center, meeting room and administrative offices. Many activities such as shopping, sports events, and concert trips are organized to suit the interests of the residents.

With one of North Naples’ most sought-after addresses, Pelican Marsh has long established itself as one of the finest communities and private golf clubs in the Naples area. Ensconced within more than 1,100 acres of tropical landscaping, lakes and 133 acres of nature preserves, including the award-winning Cocohatchee Strand preserve, this private, gated enclave provides a pristine setting for miles of walkways … ideal for biking, jogging, or walking. Right outside the gates are pristine Gulf beaches, unparalleled shopping and exquisite dining.

Pelican Marsh offers a wide variety of neighborhood and home selections designed to enhance any lifestyle and budget. The jewel of the community is the award-winning championship golf course, Pelican Marsh Golf Club, while the Community Center with all of its Neapolitan amenities, along with the adjacent tennis facility, is a favorite gathering place for residents, as it inspires an active family lifestyle. Although Pelican Marsh Golf Club is nestled within this award-winning community, residency is not a requirement for membership.

Pelican Marsh has long established itself as one the finest communities and golf clubs in the Naples area. The award-winning golf course has gained worldwide recognition as 2013 Golf Inc. Magazine “Golf Course Renovation of the Year Honoree.” It also is an Audubon-certified sanctuary that has played host to a Champions Tour Event. Regarded as one of the most challenging and exciting courses to play in Southwest Florida, the course delivers a masterful experience for players of all skill levels, from beginner to competitor.

Pelican Marsh Golf Club a gated community in Naples FL 34109 Naples Florida golf community Pelican Marsh Pelican Marsh community homes and condos for sale.

The Club offers a full calendar of social, golf and dining activities with an award-winning chef, state-of-the-art practice facility, and true championship golf. Pelican Marsh Golf Club is proud to be fully owned by its members and is a model of financial strength.

 

pelican marsh florida, pelican marsh fl, naples pelican marsh, homes for sale pelican marsh, houses for sale pelican marsh, pelican marsh real estate, pelican marsh homes for sale, pelican marsh golf club, country clubs naples fl, country clubs naples florida

 

June 8, 2025

Aqualane Shore Waterfront Luxury Homes for Sale

Aqualane Shores Waterfront Luxury Homes

MLS link for property inventory for sale

Waterfront single family homes for sale in Aqualane Shores, Naples Florida, 34102

There are many great waterfront locations and architectural styles of homes for your consideration in Aqualane Shores. Many deep water access canal properties and newer, modern dock, boat lifts and quick navigation to the Gordon River and Gulf of Mexico! Convenient to down town Old Naples shopping, fine dining restaurants, manicured city parks, social and charitable events, art shows, collector automobile shows and more. Aqualane Shores has been a staple for buyers nationwide seeking an established neighborhood with water access yet close to downtown amenities and casual lifestyle.

Aqualane Shores real estate listings offer some superb waterfront saltwater canals with Gulf access for championship fishing and cruising. Homes with private boat docks allow owners to keep their vessel at home on a lift and range from 26'-50" or more accommodating a wide range of boats.

Looking for a property in the Aqualane Shores neighborhood is easy with our assistance and guidance!

To preview any real estate listing in Aqualane Shores or other waterfront community contact us today 239-272-4663, we need only reserve an acceptable time to show and confirm. Since 1986 a trusted real estate resource for our clients.

Aqualane Shore waterfront homes in Naples FL

 

June 8, 2025

Labelle FL Equestrian Facility for Sale

Equestrian property for sale in LaBelle Florida

SOLD-SOLD-SOLD

Florida horse property for sale, land, barn and homes.

Equestrian estate property with land (38+/- acres), guest house, 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. The property operates as a private horse farm and small cow operation, a 2000’ grass runway air strip, 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 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.

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

 

Glen Bigness, is a recognized leader in the real estate market serving 15 Florida counties. Offering clients 35 years of experience and has a proven track record that clients use to Buy, Sell, Build and Invest in Florida real estate.