HI! I'm Jenn. I'm providing valuable information and insights on buying, selling and investing in Southwest Florida. Enjoy my blog!
Some benefits of living in Florida include:
Spanish Wells is a beautiful gated community located in Bonita Springs, Florida. The community offers a variety of amenities for residents to enjoy, including a golf course, tennis courts, and a community pool.
The homes in Spanish Wells range in size from 1,500 to over 3,000 square feet, and offer a variety of styles, including single-family homes, villas, and townhomes. Many of the homes in the community have been recently updated and feature modern amenities such as stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, and tile flooring.
One of the best things about Spanish Wells is its location. The community is just minutes away from some of the best beaches in the area, including Barefoot Beach and Bonita Beach. In addition, residents are just a short drive away from some of the best shopping, dining, and entertainment that Bonita Springs has to offer.
Another great feature of Spanish Wells is the community’s golf course. The course is a par 72 and offers a challenging round of golf for players of all skill levels. The course is surrounded by natural preserves and lakes, making it a beautiful setting for a round of golf.
Overall, Spanish Wells is a great community for those looking for a beautiful home in a convenient location. With its wide range of amenities, great location, and beautiful homes, it’s no wonder why so many people are choosing to call Spanish Wells home.
When purchasing a second home, you should consider the following:
1. Financing: You will need to decide whether to pay cash or finance the purchase. If you choose to finance, you will need to determine what type of loan is best for you.
2. Location: Consider the location of the property and whether it will be used as a vacation home or as a rental property.
3. Property condition: Have the property inspected to ensure that it is in good condition and that any repairs or renovations needed are identified.
4. Insurance: Make sure you have the right insurance coverage for your second home.
5. Tax implications: Be aware of the tax implications of owning a second home, including property taxes and income taxes if you rent out the property.
6. Maintenance costs: Be prepared for ongoing maintenance and repair costs.
7. Zoning and regulations: Understand any zoning laws and regulations that may affect the use of your property.
8. When you are ready to dive into owning a second home, give me a call at (239)383-3800
Manatee Park in Fort Myers, Florida is a must-see destination for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. The park is home to a large population of West Indian manatees, also known as sea cows, which congregate in the warm waters of the park's adjacent power plant.
Visitors can observe these gentle giants from a viewing platform or from the water by taking a guided kayak tour. The park also offers a variety of educational programs and ranger-led tours, which provide insight into the manatees' behavior and habitat.
In addition to the manatees, the park is also a haven for birdwatchers and birders with a variety of species of birds call this park home including ospreys, great blue herons, and roseate spoonbills. The park's walking trails and boardwalks offer visitors an opportunity to explore the natural beauty of the area, including the park's wetlands, marshes, and mangrove forests.
Manatee Park is also a popular destination for picnickers and families, with picnic tables and a playground available for visitors to enjoy. The park is open year-round, with winter being the best time to visit as the manatees are more active and numerous.
Overall, Manatee Park is a great place to spend a day outdoors and learn about the natural world. Whether you're a nature lover, a birdwatcher, or just looking for a fun and educational activity for the whole family, Manatee Park is a great choice.
Sanibel Island is a barrier island located off the southwest coast of Florida in the Gulf of Mexico. The island has a rich history that dates back to the pre-Columbian era, when the Calusa and Seminole tribes inhabited the area.
The island was first discovered by Europeans in the early 1500s. Famous explorer Juan Ponce de Leon is believed to have discovered Sanibel Island – which he named “Santa Isybella” after Queen Isabella — in 1513 while searching for his “Fountain of Youth.”. The island remained largely uninhabited for the next several centuries, although it was occasionally visited by pirates, sailors, and traders.
In the late 1800s, the island began to attract the attention of developers and entrepreneurs, who saw its potential as a vacation destination. The first hotel was built on the island in 1884, and soon thereafter, the island began to attract a growing number of tourists.
In the 1930s, the island was hit hard by the Great Depression, and many of the island's residents and visitors were forced to leave. However, the island's fortunes began to improve during World War II, when the government established a military base on the island.
After the war, the island's population and tourism industry began to recover, and the island has continued to grow and prosper to this day.
The gardens were originally built in the 1930s. Lester Piper opened the wildlife attraction with his brother Bill on Feb. 22, 1936 to create a place where visitors could see and learn about the diverse wildlife that calls the Everglades home. Today, the gardens are a popular destination for visitors of all ages, who come to see the alligators, tropical birds, and other animals that call the gardens home.
One of the highlights of a visit to Everglades Wonder Gardens is the alligator exhibit. The gardens are home to a large collection of alligators, including both adult and baby alligators. Visitors can see the alligators up close and learn more about these fascinating creatures through educational displays and talks.
Another highlight of the gardens is the tropical bird exhibit. The gardens are home to a wide variety of tropical birds, including parrots, macaws, and toucans. Visitors can see the birds up close and learn about their natural habitats and behaviors.
In addition to the alligators and tropical birds, Everglades Wonder Gardens also has a collection of other animals, including snakes, lizards, and turtles. Visitors can see these animals up close and learn more about them through educational displays and talks.
Everglades Wonder Gardens is a great destination for families, nature lovers, and anyone who is interested in learning more about the unique plants and animals that call the Everglades home. The gardens are open year-round, and admission is reasonable.
BONITA SPRINGS RESIDENTS RECEIVE FREE ADMISSION ON THE FIRST SUNDAY OF EVERY MONTH WITH PROOF OF RESIDENCY.
If you're planning a trip to southwest Florida, consider a visit to Everglades Wonder Gardens.
In Florida, "doc stamps" refer to a type of tax that is assessed on certain documents when they are recorded. The tax is based on the value of the property or transaction that is being documented and is typically a small percentage of that value. Examples of documents that are subject to doc stamps include deeds, mortgages, and certain types of contracts. The revenue generated by doc stamps is used to fund various state and local government programs and services.
For example, the doc stamp fee in Lee County, Florida on a property sold for $425,000.00 is calculated as follows:
$0.70 per $100 (or portion thereof) of the total consideration or value of the property.
To calculate the doc stamp fee: $425,000 x 0.007 (0.7%) = $2975
So, the doc stamp fee on a property sold for $425,000.00 in Lee County, Florida would be $2,975.
The title company will prepare the documents and the doc stamp fee will show up on your closing statement.
In some cases, the parties may include the doc stamp fee as part of the closing costs of a property sale or mortgage refinance, which would be paid by the buyer or borrower.
It's worth noting that the way the cost of doc stamps is handled can vary depending on the specific transaction, the parties involved, and the terms of the agreement.
One of the standout features of Bonita National is its golf course. The course, which was designed by Gordon Lewis, is known for its challenging layout and beautiful surroundings. The course offers a variety of challenges for golfers of all skill levels, including water hazards, bunkers, and well-manicured greens. In addition to the golf course, Bonita National also offers a variety of other recreational opportunities, such as tennis and pickleball courts, and a resort-style pool.
Bonita National also offers a variety of home options to suit different needs and preferences. The community has a range of single-family homes, villas, and coach homes, with floor plans ranging from 1,600 square feet to over 3,000 square feet. The homes feature luxury finishes such as granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, and high ceilings.
Overall, Bonita National is a great option for those looking for a luxurious, golf-oriented lifestyle in a beautiful setting. With its wide range of amenities, social activities, and home options, it's no wonder that the community has become one of the most sought-after in the area. If you're interested in learning more about Bonita National, contact a real estate agent today to schedule a tour.
Source: Naples Daily News
One of the biggest draws of Southwest Florida is its proximity to the Gulf of Mexico. With miles of sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters, this area is a paradise for beach-goers. From swimming and sunbathing to fishing and boating, there are endless ways to enjoy the water here. Popular beaches in the area include Sanibel Island, Captiva Island, and Naples Beach.
In addition to its beaches, Southwest Florida is also known for its natural beauty. The area is home to several state and national parks, including the Everglades National Park and the Big Cypress National Preserve. These parks offer visitors the chance to see a wide variety of wildlife and to explore the unique ecosystems of the region.
Another great thing about living in Southwest Florida is the abundance of outdoor activities available. The area is home to several golf courses, tennis courts, and hiking trails. It's also a popular destination for bird-watching, as the area is home to a wide variety of bird species.
For those looking for culture, Southwest Florida offers plenty of options. The area is home to several museums and art galleries, including the Naples Museum of Art and the Edison and Ford Winter Estates. There are also many annual festivals and events, such as the Naples Art Show and the Fort Myers Beach Shrimp Festival.
The real estate market in Southwest Florida is diverse, offering a wide range of properties to suit every budget and lifestyle. Whether you're looking for a luxurious waterfront home, a cozy beach cottage, or a spacious family home, there are plenty of options to choose from.
In conclusion, Southwest Florida is a truly special place to live. With its beautiful beaches, natural beauty, and endless opportunities for outdoor activities, it's no wonder why so many people choose to call this area home. Add to that the rich culture, abundance of activities and the diverse range of real estate options, it's an ideal destination for people from all walks of life. If you're considering making a move to Southwest Florida, don't hesitate to reach out to me at (239)383-3800 to learn more about the area and to find your dream home.
The homes in Pelican Marsh range in size from 1,500 to over 6,000 square feet and offer a variety of styles, including single-family homes, villas, and condos. Many of the homes in the community feature upgrades such as granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, and tile flooring.
One of the best things about Pelican Marsh is its location. The community is just minutes away from some of the best beaches in Naples, including Vanderbilt Beach and Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park. In addition, residents are just a short drive away from some of the best shopping, dining, and entertainment that Naples has to offer.
The championship golf course in Pelican Marsh is a golfer's paradise. The course is challenging, but also provides a great opportunity for golfers of all skill levels to improve their game. The course is surrounded by natural preserves and lakes, making it a beautiful setting for a round of golf. The community also offers a well-maintained tennis court for sports enthusiasts.
The community pool in Pelican Marsh is another great feature of the community. The pool is surrounded by a spacious sundeck, making it the perfect place to relax and cool off on a hot summer day.
Pelican Marsh community also offers 24/7 guarded and gated security, an active social calendar, and a state-of-the-art fitness center. The community also boasts of a beautiful clubhouse which serves as the focal point for many community activities and events.
Overall, Pelican Marsh is a great community for those looking for a luxury home in a convenient location. With its wide range of amenities, great location, and beautiful homes, it’s no wonder why so many people are choosing to call Pelican Marsh home. Whether you are a golfer, beach lover or just looking for a great community to live in, Pelican Marsh is a perfect fit.
Are you looking to buy a home in Southwest Florida? The region is known for its beautiful beaches, warm climate, and abundance of activities and amenities, making it a popular destination for both vacationers and full-time residents. However, finding the best real estate deals in Southwest Florida can be a challenge. In this post, we'll provide some tips and strategies to help you navigate the local real estate market and find the perfect home at the right price.
Work with a Local Real Estate Agent
One of the best ways to find great deals on homes in Southwest Florida is to work with a local real estate agent. A good agent will have a deep understanding of the local market and can help you find homes that meet your specific needs and budget. They will also be able to provide valuable insights and advice on the home buying process and can help you navigate any challenges that may arise.
Keep an Eye on Foreclosures and Short Sales
Foreclosures and short sales can be great opportunities to find deals on homes in Southwest Florida. These properties are typically priced well below market value and can be a great way to snag a great deal on a home. However, it's important to note that these types of properties may require significant repairs and renovations, so it's essential to do your due diligence and budget accordingly.
Research Online
The internet is a great resource for researching real estate deals in Southwest Florida. There are many websites, such as Zillow, Realtor.com, and Redfin, that provide detailed information on homes for sale in the area. You can also use online tools such as property search engines and real estate calculators to help you find the best deals on homes.
Get Pre-Approved for a Mortgage
Getting pre-approved for a mortgage can help you find the best real estate deals in Southwest Florida. When you're pre-approved for a mortgage, you'll know exactly how much you can afford to spend on a home, which will make it easier to find homes that are within your budget. It also puts you in a better position to make an offer when you find a home that you love.
Be Prepared to Act Quickly
The real estate market in Southwest Florida is competitive, so it's essential to be prepared to act quickly when you find a great deal on a home. Make sure that you're ready to make an offer as soon as you find a home that you like, as waiting too long could mean that someone else beats you to it.
In conclusion, finding the best real estate deals in Southwest Florida can be a challenge, but with the right strategies and tools, it's possible to find a great home at a price that you can afford. Work with a local real estate agent, keep an eye on foreclosures and short sales, research online, get pre-approved for a mortgage, and be prepared to act quickly. With a little bit of persistence and some expert guidance, you'll be able to find the perfect home in Southwest Florida.
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