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WOW! IT IS WITH DISTINCT PRIVILEGE TO PRESENT THIS MOST SPECTACULAR REMODELED RESIDENCE IN THE MOST SOUTHERN, MOST SOUGHT AFTER ESTATE AREA OF MARCO ISLAND. THIS IS A MASTERFUL COMPOSITION OF OVER 3800 SQ. FT OF CUSTOM FINISHED INTERIOR. YOUR EXPERIENCE BEGINS AS YOU OPEN THE FRONT DOOR TO SEE THIS COASTAL COTTAGE MASTERPIECE WITH STYLE AND ELEGANCE. THIS PROFESSIONALLY DECORATED HOME WITH SOARING CEILINGS AND DESIGNER EVERYTHING. THE GOURMET KITCHEN HAS HAND CRAFTED DESIGNER CABINETRY, BIG CENTER ISLAND, TOP OF THE LINE APPLIANCES, AND STYLISH GRANITE, BIG FARM SINK, WINE COOLER, LARGE WINDOWS AND MORE. THE SPACIOUS MASTER SUITE HAS SLIDER ACCESS TO THE LANAI, FABULOUS CLOSET BUILT INS, AND A VOGUE MASTER BATH WITH A HUGE SHOWER WITH BODY SPRAY, AND A SOOTHING TUB FOR RELAXATION. 3 LARGE EN SUITES UPSTAIRS WITH AN AWESOME FAMILY ROOM, UPPER LANAI, AND A BIG CORNER OFFICE. LARGE RESORT STYLE LANAI WITH GRANITE BUFFET, WATER FALL POOL, POOL BATH WITH EXERCISE ROOM. ENJOY AN IMPRESSIVE 167 FEET OF WATER FRONTAGE WITH A HUGE DOCK ENCOMPASSING A 41,000 LB. LIFT AND AN ADDITIONAL 10,000 LB. LIFT FOR ALL YOUR BOAT DOCKAGE NEEDS.

Shelling On Marco Island: The Fighting Conch

Marco Island Inventory levels are Up 13% from this time last year.  There are 993 properties currently for sale on the island; 311 homes, 384 condos, and 298 lots.  Condo inventory is up 19% from this time last year, while the inventory of homes is up 10% and lot inventory is up 9%.  The number of Pending Home sales is up 29% compared to last year, Pending Condos are down 31% and the number of Pending Lots is down 27%.  The total number of all pending units is down 8% compared to last year with 77 properties now under contract vs. 84 on January 1, 2018. There were 61 closings of Marco Island properties in the last month and 54 net new pending sales accounting for the decrease in total pending units from 84 last month to 77 currently.  

There was a 7% decrease in the number of homes sold in 2018 compared to 2017. Average home prices were mixed over the past 12 months with water direct homes off 4% , water indirect up 7% and Inland homes up 3%.  Over the last 12 months the average water direct lot sale price was off 37%, indirect lot average prices were down 4%, and Inland lot prices were up 5% on average.  Total home units sold in 2018 versus the same period in 2017 were down 27, with 2 more water direct, 6 fewer water indirect, and 23 fewer inland homes sold.  Total lot units sold in 2018 versus the same period in 2017 were down 41, with 7 fewer water direct, 11 fewer water indirect, and 23 fewer inland lots sold.  Total condo units sold in 2018 versus the same period in 2017 were up 23, with 17 more beach/gulf, 16 more waterfront, and 10 fewer inland condos sold. Overall, Inventory levels are down 8% from last year, with the number of pending units on January 1,2019 up by 7% compared to January 2018.

Marco Island Florida – October 1, 2018 Inventory Analysis

Marco Island Inventory levels are Down 7% from this time last year.  There are 827 properties currently for sale on the island; 248 homes, 296 condos, and 283 lots.  Condo inventory is down 7% from this time last year, while the inventory of homes is down 13% and lot inventory is up 1%.  The number of Pending Home sales is up 5% compared to last year, Pending Condos are up 2% and the number of Pending Lots is up 37%.  The total number of all pending units is up 7% compared to last year with 93 properties now under contract vs. 97 on October 1, 2017. There were 60 closings of Marco Island properties in the last month and 33 net new pending sales accounting for the decrease in total pending units from 120 last month to 93 currently.  

Marco Island, 3rd Quarter 2018 Real Estate Market Update

There was a 7% decrease in the number of homes sold in 2018 compared to 2017. Average home prices were up over the past 12 months with water direct homes up 5% , water indirect up 6% and Inland homes up 16%.  Over the last 12 months the average water direct lot sale price was up 6%, indirect lot average prices were down 7%, and Inland lot prices were up 5% on average.  Total home units sold in 2018 versus the same period in 2017 were down 20, with 5 more water indirect, 3 fewer water indirect, and 22 fewer inland homes sold.  Total lot units sold in 2018 versus the same period in 2017 were down 34, with 11 fewer water direct, 9 fewer water indirect, and 14 fewer inland lots sold.  Total condo units sold in 2018 versus the same period in 2017 were up 22, with 10 more beach/gulf, 20 more waterfront, and the same number of inland condos sold. Overall, Inventory levels are down 7% from last year, with the number of pending units on October 1,2018 up by 7% compared to October 2017.

Visiting Marco Island? 3 Reasons to Stop at an Open House!

Spring is buying and selling season in the southwest Florida real estate market — especially Marco Island! Many snowbirds are packing their bags to head up north, and many home sellers are making a last big push for a sale. Even if you’re not looking to buy or sell right now, here are 3 good reasons to stop by an open house.

1. Learn about the market from an agent

Although online resources and listing magazines can help you gauge the market trends, but nothing quite gives you the insights of a local expert. Day-in and day-out, they see the new listings and sales, and can help you get a better idea about what may be in your price range… you may even decide it’s a good time to sell or buy!

 

2. Gauge the activity

If you’re on the fence about listing your home, ask the agent what kind of sales traction they are achieving. How many people are stopping by their open houses? Have they sold many homes this season? Do they have any sales pending? Describe your lot, listing things like direct access, location on the island, and see if hey may be able to connect you with a potential buyer or give you a good timeline for sale.

 

3. Get inspired by new styles

If you’re reading this, chances are you’re already pretty active on the web. On the web, you can find all kinds of great resources to learn about design trends and styles, or even turn on HGTV. But there’s nothing like seeing what people are actually doing, what kind of styles are actually working. Open houses can give you a little inspiration and start the gears turning.

For us top producing brokers, open houses are all about making a connection and starting a relationship. If you don’t want to wait for an open house to start working with one of the most experienced on the island, Contact The Walter Team Today 239-821-0994

Can A Real Estate Agent Really Help Me Save?

Resort towns like Marco Island are known for their perpetual sellers – those who visit every year and say, “one day we’ll buy and move down here.” They often pick up listing magazines and stop by a few open houses. If you’re one of those buyers, but now you want to seriously look for a new place, here are a few reasons to call a real estate agent to find the perfect home. Call the Walter Team 239-821-0994.

Agents Save You Valuable Time

If you’re Marco Island home will be your secondary home, time is of the essence! Rather than wandering around the Island and the county trying to find the right home, meet with an agent. Explain what you’re looking for (price, location, type and features), and they can quickly compile a list of homes on market meeting your needs. They can set-up the appointments and use their special access to get you into unoccupied homes.  Call the Walter Team 239-821-0994

 

Agents Can Refer You to Local Contractors

Even if you find the right home to purchase, chances are it’s still not perfect! A good agent, especially on a place like Marco Island, can connect you to the best contractors in every trade. If you are just purchasing a lot, or interested in a major renovation, ask your agent who you should trust. For the precarious legal process surrounding the sale, or finding a trusted mortgage lender, an agent can give you solid recommendations. Just imagine all the time you save when you don’t sell or buy alone! Call the Walter Team 239-821-0994

Knowledge = Money

Agents know you want the highest possible value for your home, but they also know the market and what your home is worth. They can help you accurately list your home with a comparable market price — neither too high or too low. When it comes to finally closing the deal, agents can help you negotiate the absolute best price for your home — is your counteroffer too high or too low? With an experienced agent, navigating this process will save you money on your home!  Ready to get started, Call The Walter Team Today! 239-821-0994

Marco Island, 2nd Quarter 2018 Real Estate Market Update

There was a 8% decrease in the number of homes sold in 2018 compared to 2017. Average home prices were mixed over the past 12 months with water direct homes up 2% , water indirect down 7% and Inland homes up 14%.  Over the last 12 months the average water direct lot sale price was up 5%, indirect lot average prices were down 1%, and Inland lot prices were down an average of 3%.  Total home units sold in 2018 versus the same period in 2017 were down 14, with 6 fewer water indirect, 6 fewer water indirect, and 2 fewer inland homes sold.  Total lot units sold in 2018 versus the same period in 2017 were down 21, with 6 fewer water direct, 8 fewer water indirect, and 7 fewer inland lots sold.  Total condo units sold in 2018 versus the same period in 2017 were down 9, with 16 fewer beach/gulf, 12 more waterfront, and 5 fewer inland condos sold. Overall, Inventory levels are down 9% from last year, with the number of pending units on July 1,2018 also down  by 6% compared to July 2017.  Call the Walter Team for the Best Deals and Steals !

 

Located in the Gulf of Mexico and just a short ride from the Florida Everglades, Marco Island has long been a hot spot for travelers from all over the world. Whether you’re looking for white sand beaches, world-class golf courses, or top-notch shopping and entertainment, there’s no shortage of fun things to do. We’ve rounded up some of the best activities and attractions to check out during your stay. Here are our top recommendations.

 

Beaches and parks

Collect shells with the kids

Voted as one of the prettiest stretches of coastline in the region, Marco South Beach is a must-visit if you’re looking for things to in Marco Island. It has soft white sand and clear warm water so it’s perfect for swimming and sunbathing, and it’s great for beach games and water sports too. The shore is littered with all kinds of seashells making it an ideal spot for shell collecting, or you can go wildlife spotting along the powdery sand dunes. The walkway to the beach is lined with palm trees and is backed by a number of cafés, restaurants and hotels. Don’t worry about the tourist crowds here; they tend to head to Marco’s livelier beaches.

Sail to a nature preserve

Keewaydin Island (or Key Island as it is known locally) is an 8-mile-long nature preserve located just a short boat ride from Marco Island’s northern tip. A popular spot for beachgoers and boaters alike, the island is home to an abundance of sandy beaches and winding mangroves, as well as a wide variety of wildlife including birds, deer, iguana and turtles. You can spend the day splashing, sunning, shelling or fishing, or you can explore the island by boat or kayak, spotting dolphins, manatees, shore birds and other sea life along the way. While the only way to reach Keewaydin Island is by boat, there are various options to choose from. You can take an express water shuttle with a variety of departure and return times, or you can rent boats or jet skis from one of the many water sports rental providers in Marco Island.

Buy a burger from a food boat

If you’re spending an entire day at Keewaydin Island, you can pack a picnic or you can cook up meals in the designated BBQ areas. Alternatively you could stop by one of the many ‘food boats’ that dock on the shoreline, serving ice cream, burgers, beers and soft drinks straight from the boat.

Sunbathe on a pristine beach

One of the most popular beaches in Marco Island, Tigertail Beach has pristine sands and a range of great facilities including changing rooms, BBQ grills, a snack bar, a kid’s playground and a water sports outlet that rents kayaks, SUP boards and other beach gear. This well-maintained part of the beach faces onto a vast saltwater lagoon which is shallow enough for kids to safely swim and splash around.

Wade across a blue lagoon

Tigertail Beach may have a beautifully developed beach area but if you cross the lagoon, you leave development behind. On the other side there are lush mangroves filled with schools of small fish, and unspoilt beaches with powdery soft sands and scads of shells lining the shore. You can cross the lagoon by kayak or paddle board, or if you fancy a slightly squelchy adventure you can wade across perfectly safely, even with little ones in tow.

Shopping and spas

Head to Downtown Marco Island

If you’re looking for places to go shopping in Marco Island, you’ll find a multitude of shops, malls and outlets that go way beyond selling just beachwear. Downtown Marco Island is home to most of the main shopping plazas where you’ll find a good variety of malls, boutique stores and spas, as well as a number of top dining and nightlife options.

Hit the malls

The Marco Walk Plaza is one of the best known shopping malls in the Downtown Marco Island area and is home to clothing stores, restaurants, a beauty parlor and a movie theatre. For a more upscale vibe head to the Esplanade district where you’ll find an Italian-style shopping village consisting of designer boutiques, fine-dining restaurants and the picturesque marina.

Relax at a spa

If you seek a little rest and relaxation there are some great spas in and around the island. The Spa at JW Marco Island offers a full range of spa and salon treatments including massages, nail services, hair styling, waxing and electrolysis.

Go shopping in Naples

If you’re happy to head slightly further afield for shopping, the area of Naples is just a short drive away. In Naples you’ll find many first-rate shopping destinations including the downtown Fifth Avenue South and Third Street South shopping districts, as well as Tin City, the Coastland Mall, Waterside Shops and the Village on Venetian Bay.

Get discounts on designer goods

Another popular spot for shopping is the Naples Outlet Center which is home to dozens of discount stores selling clothing, shoes, home ware and travel accessories.

Stock up at a farmers’ market

The Farmers’ Market in Marco Island is one of the largest open markets in Southwest Florida. The market is located at Veteran’s Park in the heart of Marco and runs from November through April. You can stock up on a variety of fresh fruit, vegetables, flowers and meats as well as pastas, sauces, baked items and more. There are also many stalls selling handmade arts and crafts. The market takes place every Wednesday morning.

Fun and entertainment

Catch a movie at the mall

When you’ve had your fill of shopping, why not end the day with a movie at the mall? Located at the Marco Walk Plaza, Marco Movies is a unique film and food theater where you can catch all the latest releases whilst enjoying casual American eats served by the venue’s friendly wait staff. One of the top-rated things to do in Marco Island at night, this 3-screen theater is open every evening, and screens a variety of first-release movies.

Play a game of mini golf

A popular spot with guests of all ages, Marco Mini Golf is a great place to head for a fun-filled day. There’s an 18-hole miniature golf course built around beautifully landscaped gardens complete with pretty water features and footbridges. There are free drinks along the course, and when you’re done playing you can drop your ball into a special competition box for the chance to win another game – for free!

Day trips and tours

Go on a backwater adventure

Marco Island is the largest of Florida’s Ten Thousand Islands and is flanked by nearly 100 miles of un spoilt isles, bays and mangrove estuaries that are perfect for both adventurous and relaxing activities. Try a self drive boat tour through the region’s seemingly-endless backwaters where you’ll spot dolphins, manatees, shore birds and other sea life along the way.

Explore an abandoned dome house

Most boat tours include a stop off at a private island for shelling and fishing, plus a ride around the famous Cape Marino dome house.

Go alligator spotting

Alligators are everywhere in Florida, but the best place to see them living in the wild is at the Everglades National Park. You can easily access the Everglades from Marco Island, and a number of tour operators offer alligator-spotting safaris around the park’s lakes, swamps and canals. Try a unique tour which includes rides both on the water and on land, a trip to the Animal Sanctuary at Everglades City, and a photo opportunity with an alligator.

Design your own adventure

With so many amazing things to do in Marco Island it can be tricky deciding between them, so why not combine a few activities into your very own adventure?  Try a custom tour of the Ten Thousand Islands and the Everglades with options to combine whale and dolphin spotting, bird watching shelling, photography and water sports.

Sports and activities

Ride on a Wave runner

With so many surroundings islands and waterways to explore, it’s no wonder that water activities are some of the most popular things to do in Marco Island. A water scooter is a great way of getting around, and you can rent these from most water sports providers in the region.

Tee off at a top golf resort

Regarded as one of the best golf clubs in Marco Island, Lely Resort is home to 2 public courses designed by golfing legends Robert Trent Jones and Lee Trevino. The courses offer 36 holes of championship golf, there’s also an impressive 54,000 sq ft driving range with 7 target greens, 2 practice greens and 1 chipping green. The courses are served by a 25,000 sq ft clubhouse with a full-service bar. Other amenities include a fully-stocked pro shop, a restaurant, club rentals and golf carts equipped with GPS navigation.

 

Go fishing

Backcountry fishing is one of the most popular things to in Marco Island, and fishing enthusiasts reel in plenty of local fish including snook, tarpon, redfish, trout, pompano and many other species. Experienced guides are readily available for fishing excursions from Marco Island, and include backcountry-flats fishing and deep-sea charters in the Gulf of Mexico for grouper, kingfish and snapper.

Learn to water ski

If you fancy your hand at wakeboarding, waterskiing or even knee boarding, you can book one on one instruction from an ex waterskiing pro.

Restaurants and nightlife

Dine in a castaway setting

You can sip a cocktails beachside and take in sweeping ocean views at Quinn’s on the Beach Marco Island. Known for its inventive island food and quirky ‘castaway’ vibe, this popular restaurant and bar is a must-visit on your vacation to-do list. It’s open for lunch and dinner every day, and there’s a live entertainment show every night.

 

History and culture

Visit a free museum

You can find out everything you need to know about Marco’s fascinating past at The Marco Island Historical Museum. There are lively displays and recreated village scenes based on Southwest Florida’s Calusa Indians, with artefacts including the famous Key Marco Cat, a half-human, half-panther figure thought to have religious significance. You can learn about Marco’s early pioneer roots as a fishing village and pineapple plantation. You can also find out more about the island’s explosive growth in the 1960s. The museum is located on Heathwood Drive and entry is free.

Explore an old pineapple plantation

Captain Horr’s Pineapple Plantation is the former vacation home of Captain John Horr, a Civil War veteran who established a pineapple plantation on the south side of Marco Island. The plantation was built in 1877 however all that remains of the house are a few of the 12-inch-thick walls which are made of shells and mortar. There isn’t a huge amount to see, but you’ll probably spot a few gopher tortoises standing guard around the property and the trip is well worth it if you’re looking for interesting things to do in Marco Island.

Hang out at an arts center

The Marco Island Center for the Arts hosts regular art exhibits, crafts fairs, workshops and music events that are open to visitors of all ages. The venue is open from Monday to Friday (not counting special events) and is home to a gift shop that sells fantastic local artworks and souvenirs.