Florida Keys Real Estate • Just Listed • Just Sold • Market Activity • Monday Market Update • September 15, 2025

Monday’s Market Update – Florida Keys Real Estate

by Tracy Larson

Good morning, everyone! It’s Monday, and that means it’s time to check in on what’s been happening in the Florida Keys real estate market. Each week brings a fresh wave of new opportunities for buyers and sellers, and last week was no exception.

📌 New to the Market
A total of 51 new listings came onto the market last week. Prices start around $300,000 and go up from there. What’s exciting is the variety—there’s something for nearly every type of buyer. You’ll find cozy condos, practical mobile homes, and even fractional ownership opportunities for those who want a piece of the Keys lifestyle without the full commitment of ownership. This mix shows the range of what’s available in our islands, from entry-level options to unique investments.
👉 View New Listings

📌 What Sold Last Week
On the other side of the market, 24 properties sold during the week. These sales highlight just how diverse our market can be. The lowest sale was a condo in the high $200K’s—a great reminder that there are still affordable options available. At the other end of the spectrum, a breathtaking waterfront estate closed for nearly $3 million. That spread between entry-level condos and luxury estates shows how the Florida Keys continue to attract buyers at every price point.
👉 View Sold Properties

📌 Why It Matters
Keeping up with these numbers is a great way to get a feel for the rhythm of the market. If you’re thinking about selling, you can see how quickly homes are moving and what buyers are paying. If you’re planning to buy, you can track which types of homes are hitting the market and how competitive different price ranges are.

No matter where you are in your real estate journey—whether just curious, seriously shopping, or ready to sell—these updates give you a clear snapshot of how our local market is moving week by week.

Elevator Homes in the Keys • Florida Keys Real Estate • Florida Keys Real Estate Market • Home Buying • Island Living • Keyswide • Luxury Homes • September 12, 2025

Going Up!? The Scoop on Private Elevators in Florida Keys Homes

by Tracy Larson

If you’ve toured a few luxury homes in the Florida Keys, chances are you’ve seen it: the sleek door, the quiet hum, and then—whoosh—you’re gliding up to the next level without breaking a sweat. Yep, private residential elevators aren’t just for penthouses in Miami anymore. They’re showing up in waterfront homes throughout the Keys, and not just in the multi-million-dollar price bracket. Believe it or not, you can sometimes find single-family homes with elevators under the $1,000,000 mark.

So… should you buy a home with an elevator? Let’s take a ride through the pros and cons.

The Pros of a Private Elevator

1. Aging in Place
Stairs can be a challenge as we age, but that doesn’t mean you have to give up your dream Keys home. An elevator makes it easy to enjoy multi-story living—today, tomorrow, and well into the future.

2. Rental Desirability
Vacation renters love convenience, and an elevator adds a “wow factor” that can make your listing stand out. Guests hauling luggage, fishing gear, or groceries from Publix will thank you.

3. Everyday Convenience
Think about carrying up cases of water, paddleboards, or that Costco run. With an elevator, you’re not just going up—you’re leveling up your lifestyle.

4. Long-Term Value
Homes with elevators often appeal to a wider buyer pool, from retirees to families, making them easier to sell down the road.

The Cons of a Private Elevator

1. Maintenance & Repairs
Like your boat, your elevator needs regular care. Maintenance contracts, inspections, and occasional repairs are part of the deal—and they can add up.

2. Upfront Costs
Even if you’re buying in the under-$1M range, an elevator often means you’re getting into higher-end finishes and features. That’s great for comfort but something to budget for.

3. Power Outages
This is the Keys, and storms happen. Elevators need electricity, so you’ll want to know how your home (and elevator) handles outages.

4. Space Trade-Off
Elevators take up square footage, which could otherwise be used for storage, a walk-in pantry, or even a wine cellar.

Is It Worth It?

If you love the idea of convenience, accessibility, and maybe just a touch of drama (hello, grand entrance!), a home with a private elevator could be the perfect fit. For buyers planning to stay long-term—or investors who want a rental property that stands out—an elevator can add real value.

But remember: it’s not a ride you take for free. Weigh the ongoing maintenance against the lifestyle boost, and decide whether pressing that “Up” button is worth it for you.

✨ Final Thought: In the Florida Keys, homes are as unique as the people who buy them. Whether your dream house has an elevator or not, the real joy is finding a place where every level—ground floor to rooftop—feels like paradise.

👉 Curious to see what’s currently on the market? Click here to explore Florida Keys homes with elevators

Big Pine Key • Florida Keys • Florida Keys History • Florida Keys Real Estate • Islamorada • Island Living • Key Largo • Key West • Lifestyle • Marathon • Seven Mile Bridge • Tavernier • September 11, 2025

10 Delightfully Quirky Stops on a Road Trip Through the Florida Keys

by Tracy Larson

The Florida Keys are known for turquoise waters, swaying palms, and that laid-back island lifestyle. But if you look a little closer, you’ll find something else the Keys do better than anywhere else: quirky fun. From a giant lobster statue in Tavernier to a full-fledged turtle hospital in Marathon, this island chain is bursting with weird and wonderful surprises.

So, if you’re planning a road trip down U.S. 1, here are the top quirky Florida Keys attractions — in order — from Key Largo to Key West.

1. Cruise on The African Queen (Key Largo)

Looking for one of the most unique things to do in Key Largo? Step aboard The African Queen, the actual steamboat from the 1951 Humphrey Bogart and Katharine Hepburn film. She’s still afloat, chugging through the canals with her iconic whistle. It’s part sightseeing tour, part movie magic.

Local Tip: After your cruise, grab a cocktail at Skipper’s Dockside, right on the water.

2. Say Hello to Betsy the Lobster (Tavernier)

Searching for quirky photo spots in the Florida Keys? Look no further than Betsy, a 40-foot-long fiberglass lobster outside Rain Barrel Village in Tavernier. She’s massive, clawed, and endlessly Instagrammable. Behind her, the open-air art village is filled with colorful Keys-inspired crafts.

Local Tip: Wander through the hidden garden paths — you’ll find murals and sculptures most tourists miss.

3. Dive into History (Islamorada)

Islamorada may be famous for sportfishing, but one of its coolest attractions is the History of Diving Museum. With antique helmets, deep-sea suits, and tales of treasure hunters, it’s a fascinating look at humans’ obsession with the ocean. It’s a must-see if you’re looking for indoor things to do in Islamorada.

Local Tip: After your visit, head to Florida Keys Brewing Co. nearby — it’s colorful, funky, and perfect for a post-museum pint.

4. Visit the Turtle Hospital (Marathon)

One of the most heartwarming Florida Keys attractions is in Marathon: The Turtle Hospital. This working facility rescues, rehabilitates, and releases injured sea turtles. Tours let you meet patients with names like Bubble Butt and learn about their recovery.

Local Tip: Book your spot early, especially in peak season — tours fill quickly.

5. Walk the Old Seven Mile Bridge (Marathon)

For some of the best free things to do in Marathon, take a stroll or bike ride on the Old Seven Mile Bridge. The views are endless — turquoise waters in every direction — and the sunsets rival Key West’s famous Mallory Square (without the crowds).

Local Tip: Bring water and a hat — there’s no shade, but the breeze makes up for it.

6. No Name Pub (Big Pine Key)

If you’re craving quirky dining in the Florida Keys, No Name Pub delivers. Tucked away on Big Pine Key, this legendary spot serves pizza and cold beer under ceilings covered with stapled dollar bills — nearly $90,000 worth!

Local Tip: Drive slow — the endangered Key deer roam freely around Big Pine.

7. The Underwater Music Festival (Big Pine / Looe Key Reef)

Looking for the most unusual events in the Florida Keys? Each July, divers and snorkelers head to Looe Key Reef for the Underwater Music Festival. It’s broadcast through submerged speakers while costumed “musicians” pretend to play under the sea. Equal parts surreal and silly, it’s an only-in-the-Keys experience.

Local Tip: Bahia Honda State Park is the perfect dry-land spot to catch the music and enjoy the beach.

8. Roaming Roosters (Key West)

When you arrive in quirky Key West, you’ll immediately meet its loudest residents: the roosters. Protected by city ordinance, they strut across Duval Street, crow at all hours, and add plenty of feathered personality to the island.

Local Tip: Sip a Cuban coffee at Cuban Coffee Queen — the roosters will likely wander by to join you.

9. Hemingway Look-Alike Contest (Key West)

Held every July at Sloppy Joe’s, this Key West tradition brings dozens of white-bearded men competing to be crowned the best Ernest Hemingway look-alike. It’s hilarious, a little chaotic, and one of the quirkiest festivals in the Keys.

Local Tip: Visit Hemingway’s Key West home year-round, where six-toed cats lounge in the gardens like they own the place.

10. Join the Conch Republic (Key West)

In 1982, Key West “seceded” from the U.S. to protest a border patrol roadblock, creating the Conch Republic. Today, it lives on with its own flag, passport, and annual April festival full of parades and sea battles. It’s Key West’s quirky spirit at its finest.

Local Tip: Stop by a local shop for a Conch Republic flag or passport — the ultimate quirky souvenir.

Final Thoughts

From movie boats in Key Largo to roosters in Key West, the Florida Keys are full of quirky attractions that make any road trip unforgettable. Whether you’re looking for fun things to do in the Upper Keys, hidden gems in Marathon, or eccentric festivals in Key West, you’ll find stories worth telling for years to come.

Florida Keys • Florida Keys Real Estate • Island Living • September 10, 2025

What’s the Biggest Draw for Living in the Florida Keys?

by Tracy Larson

When people think about moving to the Florida Keys, the dream often starts with a postcard-perfect picture. Clear blue waters, swaying palms, and that famous “island time” lifestyle. But the Keys aren’t just a vacation spot—they’re home to people who have chosen this place for very different reasons.

Some folks can’t imagine living anywhere without a boat tied up outside their back door. Others are drawn to the rhythm of life here, where the pace is a little slower and the neighbors know your name. Still others simply love waking up to sunshine most of the year while their friends up north are shoveling snow.

Living in the Keys means something different for everyone, and that’s what makes it so special.

No matter which choice you make, it’s hard to argue with the charm of island life. Boaters will tell you nothing compares to heading out at dawn for a day on the water. Food lovers will rave about stone crab season or that hidden dockside restaurant only the locals know. And if you’re chasing sunsets, well—few places on Earth put on a nightly show like the Florida Keys.

That’s the beauty of living here. The Keys offer something for every dreamer, every adventurer, and every soul looking for a slice of paradise. I’d love to know what you think makes Keys living so irresistible.

Flavors of the Keys • Florida Keys Real Estate • Islamorada • Island Living • Key Lime Pie • Key West • Lion Fish • Marathon • September 9, 2025

A Foodie’s Paradise in the Florida Keys: From Lionfish Tacos to Key Lime Pie

by Tracy Larson

The Florida Keys aren’t just famous for turquoise waters, world-class fishing, and jaw-dropping sunsets—they’re also a smorgasbord of flavors that could keep any foodie happily fork-deep for weeks. Down here, dining isn’t just about eating; it’s an adventure where fresh seafood, quirky local haunts, and a dash of tropical whimsy all come together on your plate.

Lazy Days in Islamorada – Where Ocean Meets Appetite

Start your journey in Islamorada at Lazy Days, where the fish is as fresh as the sea breeze. Locals know the trick: bring in your catch, and the chefs will cook it up just the way you like it—grilled, blackened, or swimming in a Key lime butter sauce. Add a plate of conch fritters and a view of the endless blue horizon, and you’ll wonder why you ever eat indoors.

Burdines in Marathon – Burgers, Boats, and a Side of Sunset

Head south to Marathon and swing by Burdines Waterfront. Don’t let the laid-back vibe fool you—this place is serious about comfort food. Their famous hush puppies and hand-cut fries are perfect for snacking between bites of a juicy burger. Grab a seat by the water, order their Key lime pie (yes, you need another slice), and watch the boats drift by. If you’re lucky, you might even get a visit from a curious pelican.

Blue Heaven in Key West – Roosters and Rapture

By the time you roll into Key West, you’ll be ready for something that screams island charm, and Blue Heaven delivers. Where else can you eat Caribbean-inspired shrimp and grits under a canopy of banyan trees while roosters strut by like they own the place? Save room for dessert—their towering slice of Key lime pie, crowned with mile-high meringue, is the stuff of legend. One forkful, and you’ll understand why people happily line up for it.

Offbeat Bites and Local Legends

But don’t stop there. The Keys are full of surprises: lionfish tacos (a delicious way to help the reef), Cuban coffee strong enough to power a fishing boat, and lobster pizza that’ll make you rethink everything you know about pizza toppings. Every island has its hidden gems, often tucked down side streets or perched on the water’s edge, waiting to feed your sense of adventure as much as your stomach.

The Grand Finale – Always Key Lime Pie

Of course, no foodie tour of the Florida Keys is complete without Key lime pie. Creamy, tart, and just sweet enough, it’s more than dessert—it’s the Keys on a plate. Some swear by the meringue topping, others by whipped cream, but everyone agrees on one thing: you can’t leave without at least one slice…or three.

✨ Pro tip: Pack stretchy pants. Between the lionfish tacos, the hush puppies, and the mountain-high Key lime pie, you’ll thank yourself later.

Florida Keys • Florida Keys Real Estate • Florida Keys Real Estate Market • September 8, 2025

Monday Market Sales Update – What’s Selling in Paradise?

by Tracy Larson

Over the past week, 18 homes closed across the Keys, giving us a solid snapshot of current market activity.

Average List Price: $1,656,399
Average Sales Price: $1,459,284
Average Days on Market: 96

💡 While the averages highlight the strength of our market, it’s important to note that 7 of these 18 homes sold below the $1 million mark. This shows there are opportunities at a variety of price points—something both buyers and sellers can feel confident about.

What does this mean for you?

Buyers: Don’t let the averages discourage you—there are still homes available at approachable price ranges.
Sellers: Strong activity and steady sales show that well-priced homes are moving, with buyers actively searching Keyswide.

The Florida Keys continues to offer a unique lifestyle, and whether you’re looking for your first island home or ready to move up, now is a great time to make your move.

✨ Thinking about buying or selling in the Keys? Let’s connect and talk about your goals.

👉 Curious to see the full list of last week’s sales? Click here to view what sold.

Florida Keys • Florida Keys Real Estate • Florida Keys Real Estate Market • Homes for Sale • Housing Market • new listings • September 8, 2025

Monday Market Update: A Seasonal Slowdown with Bigger Factors at Play

by Tracy Larson

If you’ve been watching the Florida Keys real estate market, you may have noticed that the pace of new listings has been slowing. Normally, we average somewhere in the 60s for new homes hitting the market each week, but that number has been steadily dropping.

Part of the reason is seasonal. This time of year traditionally brings a lull in activity, and we expect the market to feel a little quieter. But beyond the calendar, there are some larger forces shaping seller behavior both here and nationwide.

Why Fewer Homes Are Hitting the Market

Economic Uncertainty
Many homeowners are hesitant to list because of the perception that the national economy is fragile. Even if the local market is healthy, national headlines can influence confidence.
Interest Rates
With rates still elevated, some owners prefer to hold onto their current mortgages rather than step into a higher-rate loan on their next property.
Expired Listings Not Renewing
Homeowners whose listings have expired are sometimes reluctant to re-list, again tied to the belief that “the market just isn’t strong enough right now.”

What This Means for the Keys

While these trends reflect what’s happening across the country, the Florida Keys market has its own rhythm. Seasonal slowdowns are normal here, and while inventory growth may feel sluggish, demand for homes in our island communities remains steady. Buyers are still looking for the right opportunities, especially those drawn by our unique lifestyle and ocean access.

The Bottom Line

Yes, new listings are down — but it’s not just a “slow market.” It’s a mix of seasonality, perception, and interest rates all playing together. If you’re a buyer, this means less new inventory to choose from, but also a chance to move quickly when the right property comes along. If you’re a seller, it means your home may face less competition on the market, which can work in your favor.

📊 Last week, 29 new listings came on the market here in the Florida Keys. You can take a closer look at them here: View the New Listings.

First Class Fridays • Florida Keys Real Estate Market • Islamorada • Waterfront Homes • September 5, 2025

First Class Fridays – Exquisite Tri-Level Waterfront Estate in Venetian Shores

by Tracy Larson

Every Friday, we bring you an exclusive look at one of the Florida Keys’ most distinguished homes. Today’s feature is nothing short of spectacular—an estate that truly embodies first-class waterfront living.

🏡 Property Spotlight: Exquisite Tri-Level Waterfront Estate in Venetian Shores

Welcome to the epitome of Florida Keys luxury living! This remarkable tri-level estate in prestigious Venetian Shores, Islamorada was designed for the most discerning buyer—offering the perfect blend of elegance, comfort, and coastal lifestyle.

🌴 Property Highlights

6 Bedrooms | 5 Bathrooms | 5,000 sqft of magnificently designed living space
Soaring ceilings, fireplace, and a grand open-concept living area
Expansive wraparound veranda for breezy indoor-outdoor living
Beautifully landscaped 10,000 sqft lot providing privacy and tranquility
Resort-style swimming pool with new resurfacing and glass edge surround

🚤 Boater’s Dream Come True

100 ft of deep-water concrete dockage
20,000 lb catamaran-width elevator lift + 5,500 lb davits
220V pedestal for marine electric service
Immediate access to the Atlantic Ocean & Florida Bay for world-class fishing

🛠️ Recent Upgrades

New two-car A/C split system with 10-year warranty
New dock and stair brick pavers
New impact windows & French doors (third floor)
Two new Rolladen electric hurricane shutters
Swimming pool resurfacing with modern glass edge surround
Dock upgraded with 220V pedestal for marine electric needs

🚗 Additional Features

Two-car garage with new A/C
Covered carport parking + paved driveway
Secure storage for vehicles and gear

This home embodies the best of the Florida Keys lifestyle—luxury, privacy, and unbeatable access to the water. Whether entertaining, relaxing, or setting out for a day of fishing, this estate offers it all.

📍 Venetian Shores | Islamorada, Florida Keys – Offered at $5,299,000

Listing information provided courtesy of Lisa Frins, Berkshire Hathaway Home Services

Community Spotlight • Construction • Florida Keys Architecture • Florida Keys Real Estate • Gingerbread Houses • Home Buying • Island Living • September 4, 2025

Quirky Florida Keys Architecture: Why Our Homes Have So Much Personality

by Tracy Larson

One of the things I love most about the Florida Keys is how our homes each seem to tell their own story. Walk through Key West, or drive down the Overseas Highway, and you’ll spot all kinds of quirky details—gingerbread trim, rainbow shutters, stilt foundations, and even houses with “eyebrows.” Yes, eyebrows! Living here, you get used to architecture that’s colorful, practical, and just a little whimsical.

Conch Homes and Gingerbread Details

The classic conch home is a staple of Key West. You’ll recognize it right away: tin roofs, pastel paint, big porches, and those delicate gingerbread details along the eaves. That gingerbread trim looks like it came straight out of a storybook, and it gives these homes a unique charm you won’t find anywhere else. I can tell you from personal experience—I own a home with gingerbread detailing, and it was one of the reasons I fell in love with it and bought it! Of course, the design wasn’t just about being pretty—wide porches helped keep houses cool long before air conditioning, and the raised foundations added a layer of protection from flooding.

Living on Stilts

Head a little further up the Keys, and you’ll see plenty of homes lifted high on stilts. It’s not just a design quirk—it’s survival. Stilts keep the living space above potential floodwaters, and during hurricane season, that extra height matters. The bonus? Room underneath for parking, storage, or even the perfect shady spot to hang a hammock.

Eyebrow Houses: Shady and Stylish

Now, let’s talk about the eyebrow house, one of Key West’s most iconic designs. Picture a house with windows that peek out from under an overhanging roofline—like little eyebrows shading their eyes. The design is clever and practical: it keeps the upstairs cooler by blocking direct sun, while still letting breezes flow through. Functional and fashionable, island-style.

Shotgun Houses: Narrow but Full of Charm

Another classic you’ll spot is the shotgun house. These homes are long and narrow, often just one room wide, with doors lined up front to back. Why the design? Back in the day, it made for great airflow—open the front and back doors, and the breeze carries straight through. It’s simple, efficient, and perfect for island living.

Shutters with Personality

Of course, no Keys home is complete without shutters. They’re built to protect during storms, but down here, people have fun with them. From bold tropical colors to hand-painted dolphins or pineapples, shutters are functional and full of personality—much like the people who live behind them.

Quirky, Charming, and Totally Keys

The architecture of the Florida Keys is more than just buildings—it’s a reflection of our lifestyle. It’s practical enough to handle island weather, but never too serious to skip a splash of color or a little whimsy. Whether it’s a conch house with gingerbread trim, a stilted home with an ocean view, or an eyebrow cottage peeking from behind the palms, each one has a charm all its own.

And if you’ve ever thought about finding a Keys home with its own personality, I’d be happy to help you track down the one that feels just right.

Cudjoe Key • Florida Keys Real Estate • Island Living • Property Spotlight • Waterfront Homes • September 3, 2025

One-of-a-Kind A-Frame Waterfront Escape in the Florida Keys

by Tracy Larson

I have to say—I absolutely love this home. Unique A-frame architecture isn’t something you come across often in the Keys, and the way the interior has been styled makes it even more special.

Welcome to 22852 John Silver Lane, a rare A-frame waterfront retreat tucked away in peaceful Cutthroat Harbor Estates. This two-bedroom, two-bath home strikes the perfect balance between classic Keys charm and modern comfort, surrounded by lush palms and native landscaping.

Inside, soaring vaulted ceilings and impact-rated windows flood the home with natural light. The hardwood floors feel warm and inviting, while the charming kitchen makes every meal a joy to prepare. One of my favorite touches? The built-in bookcases and open shelving that follow the A-frame lines, offering so many ways to showcase your personality—whether with books, art, or treasured photos.

There’s also a versatile bonus space upstairs—currently set up as a third bedroom—that could easily become a lounge, office, or second living room. With new ductless AC units in every room, comfort is always just right.

Step outside and the Florida Keys lifestyle unfolds. Four breezy balconies give you peek-a-boo views of Cudjoe Bay, while the canal-front patio is perfect for sunrise coffee, sunset cocktails, or simply relaxing in a hammock. Along the 60-foot seawall, a deep-water canal leads straight to the Atlantic, the Gulf, and the backcountry for world-class fishing, diving, and kayaking.

This home is as flexible as it is beautiful—whether you’re dreaming of a full-time residence, a seasonal escape, or an investment property. With 30-day rentals permitted, room to add a pool, and over 800 sq ft of enclosed storage downstairs, it truly has it all.

Homes like this don’t come around often in the Keys. If you’d like to experience it for yourself, let’s schedule a private showing. 🏡💛

Click here for more information and photos

Listing provided courtesy of Matthew Sheehan, Ocean Sotheby’s International Realty

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