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buying advice • Florida Keys • Florida Keys Real Estate • Florida Keys Real Estate Market • Housing Market • new listings • Selling • March 24, 2025

71 New Listings in the Florida Keys Last Week – What’s Holding Some Sellers Back?

by Tracy Larson

Last week, 71 new real estate listings hit the market in the Florida Keys. While that’s still a solid number, it’s slightly lower than in previous weeks—especially considering we’re in the middle of our peak selling season.

So, why might some homeowners be hesitant to list right now? A few key factors could be at play:

1. Mortgage Rate Lock-In Effect

Many homeowners secured low-interest rates during the past few years. With today’s mortgage rates significantly higher, sellers may be reluctant to trade their current home for one with a much higher borrowing cost. This “rate lock-in” effect is a major factor keeping inventory tight.

2. Market Uncertainty

While demand for Florida Keys properties remains strong, some sellers are cautious about the broader economic landscape. Concerns about inflation, rising insurance costs, and general economic uncertainty may be leading homeowners to delay listing until they feel more confident in market conditions.

3. Seasonal Rental Income Considerations

Many Keys homeowners use their properties as vacation rentals, especially during the high season. Listing a home now could mean missing out on lucrative seasonal rental income. Some owners may prefer to wait until the off-season when rental demand slows down.

4. Supply & Demand Strategy

With fewer homes on the market, sellers may believe they can command a higher price by waiting for an even lower inventory period. However, this strategy carries risks—buyers today are still actively searching, and interest rate fluctuations could impact affordability in the future.

5. Emotional Ties to the Property

For many, selling a home in the Florida Keys isn’t just a financial decision—it’s an emotional one. Longtime owners, particularly those with second homes, may struggle with the idea of letting go, even if market conditions are favorable.

What This Means for Buyers & Sellers

While inventory remains lower than expected, motivated sellers still have an opportunity to attract serious buyers. If you’re considering selling, now is a great time to take advantage of strong demand. And for buyers, staying proactive and working with a knowledgeable local agent is key to securing the right home in this competitive market.

If you’re thinking about buying or selling in the Florida Keys, let’s talk! I’ve been helping clients navigate this unique market for over 30 years. Contact me anytime to discuss your real estate goals.

Click here to see the new listings

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Buying • Florida Keys • Florida Keys Real Estate • Florida Keys Real Estate Market • New Construction • March 14, 2025

New Construction Homes in the Florida Keys: Modern, Strong, and Built to Last

by Tracy Larson

Buying a home in the Florida Keys is an exciting step toward island living. While older homes offer charm, new construction homes come with major advantages. They follow stronger building codes, offer modern features, and require less maintenance, making them a smart investment for homeowners.

Why Choose a New Construction Home?

New homes in the Florida Keys stand stronger and safer than older ones. Florida’s updated hurricane-resistant building codes ensure new homes can withstand high winds and storm surges. Builders use impact-resistant windows, reinforced roofs, and elevated foundations to protect against extreme weather. As a result, homeowners feel more securewhen storms roll in.

Top Benefits of a New Home

🏡 Stronger Construction – Modern building codes require storm-resistant features, including impact windows, reinforced walls, and elevated foundations, reducing storm damage risks.

💰 Lower Insurance Costs – Because new homes meet strict safety standards, insurance companies often offer lower premiums, which saves homeowners money over time.

⚡ Better Energy Efficiency – Advanced insulation, high-efficiency HVAC systems, and smart technology help reduce energy bills, making homes more comfortable and affordable to maintain.

🔧 Minimal Maintenance – Everything is brand new, from the plumbing to the roof. That means fewer unexpected repairs and less time worrying about costly fixes.

🎨 Modern Design & Features – New homes come with open layouts, high-end appliances, and stylish finishes, making them both functional and beautiful.

Where to Find New Homes in the Florida Keys

New construction homes are popping up across the Upper, Middle, and Lower Keys. In Key Largo, Islamorada, Marathon, and Big Pine Key, buyers can find homes with waterfront access, private docks, and luxury finishes. Some communities offer gated security, while others provide custom-built island retreats tailored to the owner’s vision.

Ready to Make the Move?

A brand-new home in the Florida Keys offers peace of mind, energy efficiency, and storm protection. Whether you’re searching for a vacation escape or a full-time residence, choosing a new construction home makes island living more enjoyable and worry-free.

Looking for the perfect new home in the Florida Keys? Let’s connect and start your search today! 🌴🏡☀️ #FloridaKeysHomes #NewConstruction #IslandLiving

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Florida Keys • Florida Keys History • Florida Keys Real Estate • Indian Key • Islamorada • Monroe County • Off-shore Island • March 14, 2025

Indian Key: A Forgotten Piece of Florida Keys History

by Tracy Larson

Just off the coast of Islamorada, Indian Key is a small island with a big history. Though now part of Monroe County, it was once associated with Miami-Dade County. Today, the island sits quiet and uninhabited, but nearly 200 years ago, it was a thriving community full of life and business.

A Bustling Island in the 1800s

In the early 19th century, Indian Key was far from deserted. It became a center for wrecking, a profitable industry where people salvaged cargo from ships that crashed on the reefs. At that time, Key West dominated the wrecking business, but one ambitious businessman, Jacob Housman, had other plans.

In the 1830s, Housman purchased Indian Key and worked to turn it into a successful wrecking port. He built homes, stores, warehouses, and even a hotel. To gain more control over his operations, he pushed to separate the island from Monroe County. His efforts paid off, and in 1836, Indian Key became part of Miami-Dade County instead.

A Devastating Attack Changes Everything

Unfortunately, Indian Key’s success did not last. The Second Seminole War brought violence to the Florida frontier. On August 7, 1840, disaster struck when a group of Seminoles attacked the island. They burned buildings, destroyed businesses, and killed several residents. Those who survived fled for their lives.

After the attack, Indian Key was never the same. Over time, it was abandoned, and control of the island returned to Monroe County. The once-thriving community faded into history.

Indian Key Today: A Quiet Reminder of the Past

Now part of Indian Key Historic State Park, the island is a fascinating place to explore. The only way to get there is by boat or kayak, making it feel like a hidden treasure. Visitors can walk the old streets, see the ruins, and imagine life in its prime.

While Indian Key is no longer part of Miami-Dade County, its rich history lives on. From a booming trade hub to a ghost island, it remains an important part of the Florida Keys story.

Have you ever visited Indian Key?  🌴🏝 #FloridaKeys #IndianKey #History

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Big Pine Key • Florida Keys • Florida Keys Real Estate • key deer • March 12, 2025

Big Pine Key: A Unique Paradise in the Florida Keys

by Tracy Larson

Big Pine Key is a peaceful, nature-filled escape in the Lower Keys. Just 30 miles from Key West, it offers a laid-back island vibe while staying close to the action. Known for its unique wildlife, stunning landscapes, and rich history, this island is a must-visit for nature lovers and adventurers.

Meet the Famous Key Deer

Big Pine Key is home to the endangered Key deer, a smaller subspecies of the white-tailed deer. These gentle creatures roam freely throughout the island, especially in the National Key Deer Refuge, a 9,200-acre protected area established to protect their habitat.

Visitors often spot Key deer near roads or in residential areas. Since they’re most active at dawn and dusk, it’s important to drive carefully on U.S. 1.

A Haven for Nature Lovers

Beyond the Key deer, Big Pine Key is filled with diverse ecosystems and outdoor adventures. Some top spots include:

🌿 National Key Deer Refuge – Explore scenic trails and see native wildlife.
🏝 Blue Hole – A freshwater oasis attracting alligators, turtles, and birds.
🌊 Great White Heron National Wildlife Refuge – A kayaking and birdwatching paradise.
🐠 Looe Key Reef – A stunning coral reef with world-class snorkeling and diving.

With its mix of land and water adventures, Big Pine Key is a dream for anyone who loves the outdoors.

No Name Pub: A Legendary Keys Watering Hole

No trip to Big Pine Key is complete without a visit to the iconic No Name Pub. Hidden away on No Name Key, this historic spot dates back to the 1930s, originally serving as a general store and bait shop. By the 1940s, it transformed into a bar and restaurant, becoming a beloved local hangout.

Today, the pub is famous for its walls and ceiling covered in thousands of dollar bills left by visitors. Along with its quirky atmosphere, it’s known for amazing pizza, cold drinks, and a relaxed island vibe.

Close to Key West but Worlds Apart

Big Pine Key offers serene island living with easy access to Key West. A quick 40-minute drive on the Overseas Highway brings you to the vibrant nightlife, historic sites, and famous sunsets of Mallory Square. Here, you can enjoy all the energy of Key West while returning to peace and quiet at the end of the day.

Whether you’re looking for a nature escape, a historic hideaway, or a home in paradise, Big Pine Key has it all. 🌴🌊🦌

Thinking about owning a piece of the Keys? Let’s connect and explore the possibilities! 🔑🏡

Follow this link to see what’s for sale on Big Pine Key

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Florida Keys • Florida Keys History • History • Islamorada • Lignum Vitae • Off-shore Island • March 11, 2025

The Lignum Vitae: A Florida Keys Treasure

by Tracy Larson

The lignum vitae tree is a true gem of the Florida Keys. Known as the “tree of life,” it has a rich history and many unique qualities.

A Tough and Beautiful Tree

Lignum vitae means “wood of life” in Latin. Not only is its wood incredibly dense and durable, but it’s also so tough that it doesn’t float! Because of this, it became highly valuable for ship parts, including propeller bearings and pulley blocks. Additionally, its natural oils make it self-lubricating, which made it ideal for industrial use.

Growth and Characteristics

When it comes to growth, lignum vitae trees take their time. They grow slowly, often requiring decades to reach full maturity. Typically, they reach between 20 to 30 feet tall, though some remain smaller. Their evergreen leaves provide dense shade, while their deep roots help them withstand powerful storms.

Another remarkable feature is their flowers. In the spring, small blue blossoms cover the tree, attracting bees and butterflies. Later, these flowers give way to small, orange fruits, which provide a food source for local wildlife.

Deep Roots in the Florida Keys

For centuries, the lignum vitae tree has played an important role in the Florida Keys. It thrives in the region’s subtropical climate, making it a natural part of the landscape. Early settlers quickly recognized its value, using the wood for tools, furniture, and even medicinal purposes. In fact, its resin was once believed to help treat arthritis and other ailments. Today, the tree stands as a symbol of resilience and history.

Lignumvitae Key Botanical State Park

One of the best places to see these incredible trees in their natural habitat is Lignumvitae Key Botanical State Park, located off Islamorada. This secluded island is home to a pristine tropical hardwood hammock, where lignum vitae trees grow alongside other native species.

The island’s history is just as fascinating as the trees themselves. In the early 1900s, Miami chemist William J. Matheson purchased the land and built a home there. Today, his historic residence still stands, serving as a visitor center where guests can learn about the island’s unique ecosystem.

However, visiting this special place requires a bit of planning. Since the park is only accessible by boat or kayak, visitors must make the short journey across the water. Once there, they can explore scenic nature trails, learn about native plants, and experience the untouched beauty of the Florida Keys.

A Protected Species

Unfortunately, due to overharvesting, lignum vitae trees have become rare. As a result, they are now protected in Florida, making them a truly special sight in any backyard.

So, if you happen to have one growing, consider yourself lucky! These trees are not only a living piece of Florida Keys history but also a testament to strength and endurance. With their slow growth, incredible durability, and natural beauty, they remain one of the most remarkable trees in the world.

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Buying • Florida Keys • Florida Keys Real Estate • Florida Keys Real Estate Market • real estate • Selling • Sold Listings • March 10, 2025

Florida Keys Real Estate Update: 32 Homes Sold Last Week!

by Tracy Larson

The Florida Keys real estate market remains strong, with 32 properties sold between March 3 and March 9. These homes ranged in price from $246,000 to $3,675,000, showcasing the incredible variety available for buyers. Whether you’re searching for a quaint Conch cottage or an awe-inspiring oceanfront estate, there’s no shortage of beautiful properties in the Keys.

A Home for Every Lifestyle

One of the best things about buying in the Florida Keys is the diverse selection of home styles. Some buyers gravitate toward the charm and history of Conch cottages, while others prefer modern residences with open-water views and private docks. This past week, sales included everything from cozy retreats tucked away in quiet neighborhoods to expansive estates offering breathtaking sunset views and resort-style pools.

A Smart Investment Opportunity

Beyond being a dream place to live, owning a home in the Florida Keys also presents a great investment opportunity. Many homeowners choose to rent out their properties when they’re not using them full-time, taking advantage of the high demand for vacation rentals. With the Keys being a world-famous travel destination, short-term and seasonal rentals can provide an excellent way to offset ownership costs while still having a getaway of your own.

Now is the Time to Buy or Sell

We are currently in the prime buying and selling season, with tourists flocking to the Keys. Many of these tourists fall in love with the lifestyle and consider making it a permanent or part-time home. If you’ve been thinking about selling, this is a great time to list your property, as demand remains high. And if you’re in the market to buy, keeping an eye on new listings is key to finding the perfect home before it’s gone.

With a thriving market, diverse housing options, and the flexibility of rental income potential, the Florida Keys continue to be one of the best places to invest in real estate.

📩 Thinking about buying or selling? Let’s connect and make your island dream a reality! 🌴🏡

Click here to see what sold.

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Florida Keys • Florida Keys Real Estate • Florida Keys Real Estate Market • new listings • March 10, 2025

Discover the Latest Real Estate Listings in the Florida Keys

by Tracy Larson

If you’ve been dreaming of owning a home in paradise, now is the perfect time to start your search! The Florida Keys real estate market is buzzing with activity, and we have 87 new listings that just hit the market last week. With prices ranging from $299,000 to $12,499,000, there’s truly something for every budget, whether you’re looking for a cozy island retreat or a luxurious waterfront estate.

Why Now is the Best Time to Buy or Sell in the Keys

Spring is one of the busiest seasons in the Florida Keys real estate market. As the tourist season peaks, many visitors fall in love with the island lifestyle and consider making the move permanent. If you’re thinking about selling, now is the time to list your home, as increased interest means strong demand and great opportunities for sellers.

For buyers, this influx of new listings provides more options than ever. Whether you’re looking for a charming canal-front home in Key Largo, a condo with ocean views in Islamorada, or a stunning estate in Key West, there’s a property waiting for you.

Find Your Dream Home Today

The Florida Keys offer a unique mix of natural beauty, laid-back island living, and easy access to world-class fishing, boating, and dining. Don’t miss your chance to own a slice of this tropical paradise! If you’d like to learn more about these new listings or schedule a private showing, feel free to reach out. I’d be happy to help you find your perfect Keys home.

Click here to see the new listings 

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Condominiums • Florida Keys Real Estate • Florida Keys Real Estate Market • Florida Keys. Upper Keys • Summer Sea Condos • March 7, 2025

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

by Tracy Larson

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!

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1st Quarter Comparison • Florida Keys • Florida Keys Real Estate • Florida Keys Real Estate Market • Housing Market • Residential Real Estate • Sales • Sold Listings • Stats • March 5, 2025

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

by Tracy Larson

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.

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Cudjoe Key • Florida Keys • Florida Keys History • March 5, 2025

Fat Albert: The Watchful Eye Over the Florida Keys

by Tracy Larson

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.

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