CondominiumsFlorida Keys Real EstateFlorida Keys Real Estate MarketFlorida Keys. Upper KeysSummer Sea Condos March 7, 2025

Discover Summer Sea: A Serene Condominium Retreat in the Heart of the Florida Keys

Located at mile marker 88.5 on Plantation Key in Islamorada, Summer Sea Condominiums is a peaceful escape in the Florida Keys. This five-story complex features 122 units, offering studios, one-bedroom, two-bedroom, and three-bedroom options. Whether you’re looking for a full-time home, vacation getaway, or investment property, Summer Sea has something for everyone.


Prime Location with Stunning Views

Summer Sea sits bayside, providing incredible views of Florida Bay. The turquoise waters and breathtaking sunsets make it a perfect place to unwind. Plus, its central location offers easy access to shopping, dining, and local attractions. Whether you prefer exploring the Keys or relaxing by the water, this community has it all.


Resort-Style Amenities for Every Lifestyle

Summer Sea is designed for comfort and fun. Residents and guests can enjoy a variety of amenities, including:

  • Swimming Pools – A heated and cooled pool for year-round enjoyment, plus a separate children’s pool.
  • Fitness Center – A remodeled gym with modern equipment for any workout routine.
  • Recreation Rooms – A game room with billiards, a library/card room, and a community center for gatherings.
  • Marina Facilities – A private marina with a composite dock and boat ramp, ideal for boating and fishing.
  • Beachfront Lounging – A sandy area with hammocks, lounge chairs, and a fire pit, perfect for watching the sunset.

With so many amenities, life at Summer Sea feels like a permanent vacation.


Available Listings at Summer Sea

If you’re looking to buy, there are several units currently on the market. Whether you need a cozy space or a spacious retreat, there’s an option for you.

2-Bedroom Units

  • Unit #421 – A 2-bedroom, 1.5-bath with open water views, listed at $699,000.
  • Unit #424 – A spacious 2-bedroom, 2-bath with 1,148 sq ft, priced at $725,000.
  • Unit #326 – A 2-bedroom, 2-bath with an open, airy design, available for $695,000.
  • Unit #329 – A fully furnished, turnkey 2-bedroom, 1.5-bath, listed at $475,000.
  • Unit #327 – A 2-bedroom, 1.5-bath with great customization potential, priced at $400,000.
  • Unit #422 – A 2-bedroom with panoramic bay views, available for $675,000.

1-Bedroom Units

  • Unit #319 – A 1-bedroom, 1-bath with new appliances and bay views, priced at $410,000.

3-Bedroom Penthouse

  • Unit #509 – A 3-bedroom, 2-bath penthouse with a private rooftop deck, listed at $712,500.

There’s a wide range of options to fit different lifestyles and budgets. If you’re interested in a unit, now is a great time to buy. Click here to see information on all of the current listings.


Short-Term Rentals Available

Not ready to buy? Summer Sea also offers vacation rentals. Many units are available through Vrbo and other platforms, making it easy to enjoy the Florida Keys without a long-term commitment.


Why Choose Summer Sea?

Summer Sea offers stunning views, top-notch amenities, and a prime location in Islamorada. Whether you want to own a home, invest, or vacation, this bayside community has it all. With multiple listings available, now is the perfect time to explore what Summer Sea has to offer.

Would you like to learn more about a specific unit? Let’s connect today!

1st Quarter ComparisonFlorida KeysFlorida Keys Real EstateFlorida Keys Real Estate MarketHousing MarketResidential Real EstateSalesSold ListingsStats March 5, 2025

Florida Keys Real Estate Market: February 2024 vs. February 2025

The Florida Keys real estate market has experienced notable shifts between February 2024 and February 2025. By analyzing trends in single-family homes and condos/townhomes, we can better understand how pricing, demand, and sales activity have evolved.


Single-Family Homes: A Market in Transition

Open Water Homes

  • Sales Volume: 13 homes sold (unchanged from 2024)
  • Average Price: ↑ 2.9% ($3,253,278 vs. $3,162,516)
  • Days on Market: ↓ 58.7% (43 days vs. 104 days)

Key Takeaway: While the number of sales remained the same, prices increased slightly. More importantly, homes sold much faster, suggesting stronger buyer demand and a more competitive market.

Canalfront Homes

  • Sales Volume: ↑ 59% (35 sales vs. 22)
  • Average Price: ↓ 9.1% ($1,895,089 vs. $2,085,555)
  • Days on Market: No Change (92 days)

Key Takeaway: On the one hand, canalfront properties saw a significant jump in sales activity, indicating increased interest from buyers. On the other hand, the drop in average sales price suggests that sellers may have adjusted expectations to attract more offers.

Non-Waterfront Homes

  • Sales Volume: ↑ 32% (37 sales vs. 28)
  • Average Price: ↓ 3.7% ($1,218,806 vs. $1,265,611)
  • Days on Market: ↑ 54.9% (110 days vs. 71)

Key Takeaway: Although sales activity increased, homes took significantly longer to sell, and prices dipped slightly. This could indicate a more selective buyer pool or a higher inventory of non-waterfront homes competing for attention.


Condos, Townhomes, and Condo-tels: Steady but Shifting

Waterfront View Units

  • Sales Volume: ↑ 100% (18 sales vs. 9)
  • Average Price: ↓ 8.3% ($1,041,888 vs. $1,135,944)
  • Days on Market: ↓ 19.1% (76 days vs. 94)

Key Takeaway: Waterfront condos and townhomes saw twice as many sales compared to last year. However, prices declined slightly, suggesting that while demand increased, buyers may have been more price-conscious or that more lower-priced units entered the market.

Non-Waterfront Units

  • Sales Volume: ↓ 5.9% (16 sales vs. 17)
  • Average Price: ↑ 2.1% ($717,843 vs. $702,911)
  • Days on Market: ↓ 10.5% (77 days vs. 86)

Key Takeaway: Even though the number of sales dipped slightly, prices still increased, and properties sold faster than last year. This suggests that buyers continue to find value in non-waterfront condos, particularly as affordability remains a key factor in purchasing decisions.


Overall Market Trends

  • Luxury waterfront homes remain in high demand, with faster sales and higher prices for open water properties.
  • Canalfront homes attracted more buyers, though prices softened, indicating a shift in buyer expectations.
  • Non-waterfront homes moved more slowly, highlighting a potential increase in supply or shifting buyer preferences.
  • The condo market remained active, with sales doubling for waterfront units and stable pricing for non-waterfront options.

Looking ahead, the Florida Keys real estate market remains strong, particularly for buyers seeking waterfront properties. While some price adjustments occurred, the market continues to show resilience and steady demand as we move into 2025.

Cudjoe KeyFlorida KeysFlorida Keys History March 5, 2025

Fat Albert: The Watchful Eye Over the Florida Keys

If you’ve ever driven through the Lower Florida Keys and noticed a massive white balloon floating in the sky, you’ve seen Fat Albert in action. Officially known as a Tethered Aerostat Radar System (TARS), Fat Albert is a high-altitude surveillance balloon that has been a familiar sight over Cudjoe Key for decades.

What Is Fat Albert?

Fat Albert is a large, helium-filled aerostat that operates at an altitude of approximately 10,000 feet. It is tethered to the ground by a cable and serves as a radar platform for detecting low-flying aircraft and maritime activity in the region. The balloon is part of a network of TARS systems used by the U.S. government for border security and drug interdiction efforts.

History and Purpose

The Fat Albert aerostat program was established in the 1980s as part of efforts to monitor air and sea traffic over the Straits of Florida and the Gulf of Mexico. Originally operated by the U.S. Air Force, the system is now overseen by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP).

Its primary mission is to detect and track aircraft or boats that might be involved in illegal activities, such as drug smuggling or unauthorized entry into U.S. waters. The radar capabilities of Fat Albert provide law enforcement agencies with a long-range view of activity in the area, making it a valuable tool for national security.

A Local Landmark with a Big Reputation

For residents and visitors alike, Fat Albert has become an iconic part of the Lower Keys skyline. While some locals appreciate the added security the aerostat provides, others have expressed concerns about privacy and the potential for constant surveillance. Despite occasional debates about its role, Fat Albert remains a vital part of homeland security efforts.

Additionally, the aerostat has faced technical challenges over the years. The harsh weather conditions of the Florida Keys, including strong winds and hurricanes, have occasionally caused the balloon to be grounded for repairs or replacement.

What Happens When Fat Albert Is Down?

From time to time, Fat Albert is deflated for maintenance or due to severe weather. When this happens, its absence is noticeable, especially for those accustomed to seeing it hovering above Cudjoe Key. However, the program remains active, and as soon as repairs are completed, the aerostat is redeployed to resume its mission.

A Unique Piece of the Keys’ Landscape

Whether you view it as a necessary tool for security or a persistent presence in the sky, there’s no denying that Fat Albert is a unique and enduring part of life in the Florida Keys. As technology evolves, the role of aerostats in surveillance and defense may continue to change, but for now, Fat Albert remains a silent sentinel watching over the southernmost reaches of the United States.

buyersFlorida KeysFlorida Keys Real EstateFlorida Keys Real Estate MarketHome Buyingnew listingsproperty for salereal estateSelling March 3, 2025

Florida Keys Real Estate is Booming: 86 New Listings Hit the Market!

Florida Keys Real Estate is Booming: 86 New Listings Hit the Market!

The Florida Keys real estate market is heating up, and if you’ve been thinking about selling, now is the perfect time! Recently, 86 new listings hit the market, signaling the peak of selling season. With more buyers actively searching, this is your opportunity to attract strong offers.

Why Now is the Best Time to Sell

First and foremost, spring is one of the busiest times of the year for real estate in the Florida Keys. As temperatures rise, so does buyer activity, with many people looking for vacation homes, investment properties, or permanent residences. Additionally, with demand remaining high, well-priced homes are selling quickly, often receiving multiple offers.

Competition is Rising—Here’s How to Stand Out

However, with 86 new listings available, competition is increasing. That’s why having a solid marketing strategy is more important than ever. From professional photography to targeted advertising, making your home stand out can make all the difference. Fortunately, with my expertise in the Florida Keys market since 1987, I can help position your home for maximum exposure and top-dollar offers.

Don’t Miss This Window of Opportunity

Ultimately, if you’ve been considering selling, now is the time to act. With motivated buyers ready to purchase and inventory still moving fast, listing your home today could result in a quicker sale at a great price.

So, why wait? Let’s discuss the best strategy to get your home sold in this thriving market. Contact me today to get started!

Florida KeysFlorida Keys HistoryKey Lime Pie February 28, 2025

The Perfect Key Lime Pie – This Easy Recipe Brings the Taste Alive!

Key Lime Pie is more than just a dessert—it’s a slice of Florida history. Believed to have originated in the Florida Keys in the late 1800s, this tangy, creamy pie is made with Key limes, a smaller, more aromatic variety than traditional limes. It’s a beloved staple in the Keys, where fresh seafood and tropical flavors define the local cuisine.

Whenever I’m invited to a potluck, Key Lime Pie is my most requested dish. I’ve been using the same recipe since the late ‘80s/early ‘90s, originally found in a cookbook from the once-iconic Burdine’s department store (not to be confused with Burdine’s Waterfront Marina and Bar & Grill in Marathon, which is also fantastic!).

This recipe is incredibly simple yet delivers amazing results every time. Plus, it makes two pies—one to share and one to keep!

Ingredients:

✔️ 1 cup Key Lime juice – Always use fresh, never bottled
✔️ 12 egg yolks – Save the whites for meringue if you’d like
✔️ 3 cans sweetened condensed milk

I prefer a homemade graham cracker crust, following the directions on the box.

Instructions:

1️⃣ Mix the lime juice, egg yolks, and sweetened condensed milk until smooth.
2️⃣ Pour into a prepared graham cracker crust.
3️⃣ Refrigerate until set.

Optional: Some like to flash bake the pie in a very hot oven for about 5 minutes before cooling and chilling—it adds a slight caramelized touch.

This Key Lime Pie is a true taste of the Florida Keys—tangy, sweet, and refreshingly simple. Enjoy! 🍈🥧

BeachfrontBuyingFlorida Keys Real EstateInvestmentInvestorsLuxury CondosMadeira Beach February 26, 2025

The Beachmaker Madeira Beach: A Prime Marriott Investment Opportunity

The Marriott Beachmaker presents a compelling investment opportunity in one of the Top 10 U.S. Beaches—Madeira Beach. As a luxury condo-hotel, it offers a combination of high-end vacation experiences, income potential, and global hospitality perks. Let’s break down the key aspects of its investment potential.

1. Strong Location & Growing Market Demand

Madeira Beach is a prime destination, attracting tourists and second-home buyers seeking pristine beaches and a laid-back coastal lifestyle. With Florida’s tourism industry rebounding and short-term rental demand increasing, The Beachmaker is strategically positioned to capitalize on this growth.

2. Exclusive Prelaunch Incentives & Early Investor Benefits

The Founder’s Club offers early investors prime unit selection, fixed introductory pricing, and designer-appointed furniture packages. Early buyers will have the advantage of choosing the best units with Gulf and Intracoastal views, which will likely appreciate in value as the project nears completion.

3. Attractive Revenue Model & Ownership Perks

With a 60% revenue share, owners benefit directly from The Beachmaker’s rental income while enjoying full access to an exclusive resort experience. Additionally, membership in the Marriott Envia program enhances global benefits, providing VIP perks and discounts across Marriott’s extensive network.

4. Low Initial Capital Investment & Favorable Financing

Investors can secure a unit with just 10% down, with an additional 15% due at groundbreaking in 2025. The remaining balance is due upon completion in 2027, offering flexibility and easy DSCR financing for those looking to leverage their investment. With units starting at $158,887 down, this project provides an accessible entry point into a luxury beachfront property.

5. Luxury Amenities & Future Value Appreciation

The Beachmaker is designed as a world-class destination with 161 luxury condo-hotel rooms, 10 penthouse residences, rooftop pools, beachside bars, and direct beach access via a skybridge. These resort-style features enhance property value and ensure strong appeal for future resale or rental performance.

Final Verdict: A Strong Investment Opportunity

For buyers looking to own a luxury beachfront property with passive income potential, The Beachmaker stands out as a unique opportunity. The combination of early pricing incentives, high rental revenue share, and a prime location in Madeira Beach makes this a promising investment for both short-term gains and long-term appreciation.

Interested buyers should act fast to secure Founder’s Club benefits and lock in the best units before prices rise. 🌊🏡💰

Florida Keys HistoryFlorida Keys LighthouseFlorida Keys Real EstateHistoryKey WestOverseas HighwayOverseas Railroad February 25, 2025

Key West: From Florida’s Largest and Richest City to a Laid-Back Island Paradise

Key West, known today for its laid-back charm, breathtaking sunsets, and vibrant culture, has a rich and fascinating history. Believe it or not, this small island was once the largest and wealthiest city in Florida. From its booming maritime industry in the 1800s to the thriving tourist destination it is today, Key West’s transformation is a testament to resilience, reinvention, and the enduring allure of island life.

The Rise of Key West as Florida’s Wealthiest City

In the early 1800s, Key West became a major economic hub thanks to wrecking, a practice where locals salvaged cargo from ships that ran aground on the nearby reefs. With treacherous waters surrounding the Keys, shipwrecks were common, and the salvaged goods created immense wealth for the island’s residents. By the mid-1800s, Key West had the highest per capita income in the United States, making it the richest city in Florida at the time.

Beyond wrecking, industries like sponging, cigar manufacturing, and fishing helped solidify Key West’s prominence. The island attracted immigrants from the Bahamas, Cuba, and beyond, creating a diverse, culturally rich community that still influences its character today.

The Decline and Reinvention of Key West

As technology improved and lighthouses and navigational charts reduced shipwrecks, the wrecking industry declined. The economy struggled, and Key West saw financial hardships in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The Great Depression further exacerbated the downturn, leading the city to declare bankruptcy in 1934.

However, the Federal Government saw Key West’s potential and invested in revitalizing the area, promoting tourism as a new economic driver. The construction of the Overseas Highway in 1938 made the island more accessible, paving the way for a new era of tourism.

Key West Today: A Paradise for Visitors and Locals

Today, Key West is renowned for its vibrant tourism industry, artistic community, and rich history. Visitors flock to the island to experience:

  • Historic Landmarks – The Ernest Hemingway Home, Truman’s Little White House, and Fort Zachary Taylor offer a glimpse into Key West’s storied past.
  • Thriving Arts & Culture – Duval Street’s lively bars, art galleries, and theater performances create a one-of-a-kind atmosphere.
  • Outdoor Adventures – From world-class fishing and diving to sunset sails and eco-tours, the island remains a paradise for outdoor lovers.
  • Laid-Back Island Living – While no longer Florida’s largest city, Key West remains one of its most beloved and unique destinations.

Though Key West’s industries have changed, its spirit of reinvention, adventure, and resilience continues to define it. From its wealthy past to its present-day appeal, the island remains a true gem of the Florida Keys.

Thinking about making Key West your home? Let’s find your perfect island retreating Key West and beyond! 🌴🏡✨

Fixer UpperFlorida KeysFlorida Keys Real EstateFlorida Keys Real Estate MarketMarathonnew listings February 24, 2025

82 New Listings Hit the Market in the Florida Keys – Find Your Dream Home!

The Florida Keys real estate market continues to thrive, with 82 new listings entering the market from February 17th to February 23rd. Whether you’re searching for a move-in-ready luxury retreat or a fixer-upper with potential, there’s something for every buyer looking to embrace the island lifestyle.

Spotlight Property: Waterfront Fixer-Upper in Marathon

Among the latest listings, one standout property offers a unique opportunity to create your ideal coastal retreat. This waterfront, ground-level home in a sought-after Marathon subdivision is perfect for those looking to add their personal touch.

Property Highlights:
2 Bedrooms, 1 Bathroom – A solid foundation for your dream remodel
Concrete Construction – Durable and built to last
Open Living Floor Plan – A flexible space to design as you please
65 Feet of Concrete Dockage – Deep-water canal with direct access to the Atlantic Ocean and quick entry to Florida Bay

While the home is ready for renovation, it offers endless potential to become the ultimate island getaway. Whether you’re an investor looking for a prime waterfront property or a buyer eager to craft a custom Keys home, this is an opportunity you won’t want to miss.

Now Is the Time to Buy in the Florida Keys

With 82 new listings available, now is the perfect time to explore your options. From canal-front homes to ocean-view estates, the market is full of possibilities for those looking to experience the best of island living.

Looking for your dream home? Let’s find the perfect property for you! Contact me today to learn more about this week’s new listings.

Spotlight Property information courtesy of Lisa Frins, Berkshire Hathaway 

Florida KeysFlorida Keys Real EstateFlorida Keys Real Estate MarketHome BuyingHome For SaleHomes for SaleHousing Marketnew listingsproperty for salereal estate February 17, 2025

86 New Listings Hit the Florida Keys Market – Spotlight on a Stunning Canal Front Pool Home with 75′ Dock!

The Florida Keys real estate market is buzzing with excitement as 86 new listings have recently become available, offering a diverse array of properties to suit various tastes and preferences. From charming seaside cottages to luxurious waterfront estates, there’s something for everyone looking to embrace the island lifestyle.

Spotlight Property: Exquisite Canal Front Pool Home with 75′ Concrete Dock

Among these new listings, one property stands out for its exceptional design and prime location. This stunning 3-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom residence epitomizes modern island luxury, perfectly situated on a generous 9,750 sq. ft. lot.

Architectural Elegance

Constructed with precision and elegance, this concrete home boasts a durable metal roof and impact-resistant windows and doors, ensuring both safety and style. Inside, the spacious open-concept floor plan is accentuated by 10-foot ceilings and 8-foot doors, creating an airy and grand ambiance. A custom trim package adds a refined touch of sophistication throughout the living spaces.

Gourmet Kitchen

The heart of the home is the gourmet kitchen, designed to delight culinary enthusiasts. It features custom cabinetry and sleek quartz countertops, providing ample space and functionality for all your cooking endeavors.

Outdoor Oasis

Step outside to discover an expansive, tiled terrace that overlooks a sparkling pool, surrounded by lush tropical landscaping. This private oasis is perfect for relaxation and entertaining, offering a serene retreat from the everyday hustle.

Boater’s Paradise

For boating enthusiasts, the property offers a 75-foot concrete dock with direct access to both the Florida Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. This prime waterfront feature ensures endless water adventures are just steps away from your door.

Curb Appeal

A paver driveway enhances the home’s curb appeal, showcasing the meticulous attention to detail evident in every aspect of this exceptional property.

Don’t miss the opportunity to own this piece of island paradise, where luxury, comfort, and waterfront living converge. With the influx of new listings in the Florida Keys, now is the perfect time to find your dream home and immerse yourself in the idyllic island lifestyle.

Click here to see the full list of properties

Florida KeysFlorida Keys Real EstateFlorida Keys Real Estate MarketHome BuyingHome For SaleInvestmentnew listingsproperty for sale February 11, 2025

It’s Not Just Tourist Season—It’s Selling Season in the Florida Keys!

As the temperatures cool across the country, the real estate market in the Florida Keys is heating up! While tourists are arriving in droves to escape the winter chill, buyers are also flocking to the islands, making it one of the best times of the year to list your home. With 96 new listings hitting the market, it’s clear that selling season is in full swing!

Why Is Now the Perfect Time to Sell?

  1. High Buyer Demand – Seasonal residents and second-home buyers are actively looking for properties to call their own before peak season pricing takes hold.
  2. Limited Inventory – While new listings are appearing, demand continues to outpace supply, creating opportunities for sellers to get top dollar.
  3. Strong Market Activity – The influx of visitors doesn’t just mean full hotels—it also means increased foot traffic at open houses and more eyes on online listings.
  4. Favorable Weather – Showcasing a home in the Keys during the winter is a dream. Clear blue skies, calm waters, and warm breezes make properties even more appealing.

How to Take Advantage of Selling Season

If you’ve been considering selling, now is the time to position your home for success.

  • Professional Marketing Matters – A strong online presence, high-quality photos, and strategic exposure through Just Listed postcards and targeted email campaigns help your home stand out.
  • Competitive Pricing – Buyers are savvy, so pricing your home correctly from the start is crucial.
  • Curb Appeal Counts – Whether it’s a waterfront estate or a charming conch cottage, make sure your home looks its best. First impressions matter!

Thinking About Selling?

With nearly 100 new homes on the market, competition is increasing. If you want to make the most of this selling season, let’s connect. With over 30 years of experience in Florida Keys real estate, I can help you position your home for a successful sale.

📞 Contact me today to discuss your selling strategy! Click here to see the new listings.