Florida Keys Real Estate • Florida Keys Real Estate Market • Island Living • Lower Keys • Off-shore Island • Private Island • Property Spotlight • Summerland Key • August 25, 2025

Monday Market Update: Spotlight on Melody Key

by Tracy Larson

Another week, another fresh set of opportunities in the Florida Keys real estate market! Last week, 41 new listings hit the market, giving buyers a wide selection of homes and investment properties to choose from. Whether you’re dreaming of a waterfront cottage, a family home close to schools, or an income-producing property, there are plenty of strong contenders waiting to be discovered.

But among these new listings, one property stands head and shoulders above the rest. It’s rare. It’s extraordinary. And it’s not just a home—it’s a private island.

Introducing Melody Key

Melody Key, just off Summerland Key, is one of the most unique properties to ever come available in the Florida Keys. Featured on HGTV’s Island Hunters, this private, off-grid sanctuary offers more than five acres surrounded by turquoise waters in every direction.

Private islands that can actually be built on and lived in are almost unheard of in the Keys. Melody Key is that rare exception—a true, secluded escape that also comes with a mainland base lot on Summerland (1439 Hudgings Dr.), complete with seawall and canal access for easy boat launches.

What Makes Melody Key Special

This is not just a piece of land; it’s a property with a head start. The island is already undergoing a full renovation with permits, architectural plans, and site work in place—steps that normally take years and involve countless hurdles. Much of the heavy lifting has already been done, including dockage, infrastructure, and structural progress.

The residence itself features:

Soaring wood-beamed ceilings and open-air living
Panoramic water views from every angle
Solar-powered systems for true off-grid independence
A brand-new boat dock and observation deck with breathtaking 360-degree views

From sunrise over the Atlantic to sunsets over the Gulf, the island delivers an unmatched experience of natural beauty and privacy.

The Investment Advantage

The seller has already invested significantly to bring Melody Key to this point. With an estimated $1.8M to complete renovations, the new owner can step in at exactly the right moment—taking control of the finishing touches while saving years of costly planning and permitting. This is a chance to create one of the most iconic private estates in the Florida Keys, tailored to your vision.

And for those who travel by private plane, a neighborhood airstrip adds even more convenience.

Why Melody Key is a Legacy

Owning a private island in the Florida Keys is not simply about real estate—it’s about creating a legacy. Melody Key is more than a property; it’s a statement, a sanctuary, and a one-of-a-kind lifestyle. Opportunities like this simply do not exist elsewhere in the Keys.

🔗 View Melody Key and all current listings here

✨ Final Thought: With 41 new listings this week, the market is full of exciting choices. But if you’ve ever dreamed of true island living, Melody Key is the rare chance to make it a reality. Don’t just buy a home—secure your own piece of paradise.

Florida Keys Real Estate • Island Living • Luxury Estates • Luxury Homes • August 22, 2025

First-Class Fridays: Florida Keys Estates to Dream About

by Tracy Larson

Let’s be honest—sometimes it’s fun to daydream a little. And what better way to kick off the weekend than by peeking into the most jaw-dropping private estates in the Florida Keys? We’re talking the best of the best, starting at $10 million and soaring from there.

These aren’t just houses. They’re full-blown dreamscapes.

Pools You Can Walk Across

Imagine stepping out your back door into a pool so spectacular, it actually wraps around your home. Some estates even have little walking bridges, letting you wander across your own private oasis. Flip-flops optional, of course.

Movie Magic at Home

Who needs a night out when your home theater rivals the big screen? Plush seats, surround sound, and buttery popcorn (on demand). You could host your own film festival without ever leaving the island.

Your Own Slice of Sand

For many of these estates, the backyard isn’t just a view of the water—it’s your own private sandy beach. Barefoot mornings, sunset strolls, and salty air all belong to you. No towel stakes required.

Cottages That Outshine Most Homes

These aren’t “guest rooms”—they’re guest cottages. And here’s the kicker: many of them could pass for full-size homes anywhere else. Your friends and family may never want to leave (fair warning).

Over-the-Top Extras

And just when you think it can’t get more impressive—hello, heliports. Yes, some of these estates let you arrive by air. Others boast private marinas for the yacht, rooftop pools for the view, and outdoor kitchens for the ultimate Keys cookout.

🏝️ Living like this may be a dream for most of us, but hey—it’s Friday. And Fridays are made for a little “what if” thinking.

So pour a cold drink, kick back, and imagine yourself wandering barefoot across your own private bridge, heading straight for a sunset swim.

Because in the Florida Keys, dreams like this really do come true—for a lucky few.

Click here to start dreaming . . .

Photo provided courtesy of Eric Rizzo, Ocean Sotheby’s International Realty

buying advice • Florida Keys Real Estate • Pen Key Club • Property Spotlight • August 21, 2025

Florida Keys Luxury Living: Single-Family Homes with Elevators

by Tracy Larson

When most people picture the Florida Keys, they think of turquoise water, swaying palms, and wide porches catching the sea breeze. But inside some of the Keys’ most elegant homes, you’ll find another surprise: private elevators.

In the islands, many homes sit on pilings for storm protection. That means lots of stairs. An elevator changes everything. It makes life easier when you’re carrying groceries, luggage, or fishing gear. It also adds comfort for guests and peace of mind for the future.

Elevators are most often found in luxury properties. They fit right in with the relaxed but refined lifestyle that makes Keys living so special. Once you have one, you’ll wonder how you ever managed without it.

Featured Listing: Pen Key Club Retreat in Islamorada

One of the finest examples of this elevated lifestyle is Pen Key Club Retreat, a gated waterfront estate in Islamorada.

🌴 Private Bayfront Community
This Key West–style home is part of Pen Key Club, one of the most sought-after neighborhoods in the Upper Keys. The community offers full-time property management, lush tropical landscaping, and first-class amenities.

🚤 Protected Marina & Sunset Point
Enjoy a private, full-service marina with quick access to world-class sportfishing. Kayak from the launch, relax on the sandy beach, or take in the evening sky at the community’s own sunset point.

🏡 Classic Meets Modern
The home’s wraparound porches, natural light, and tropical garden views capture the charm of island living. Inside, the open design flows easily to spacious patios—perfect for entertaining or quiet evenings.

🌅 Resort Lifestyle
Residents enjoy a resort-style pool, private beach, and the comfort of on-site management, whether you live here full-time or seasonally.

✨ And yes—it has an elevator. A feature that makes every level of this beautiful home easy to enjoy.

Why Elevators Matter in Keys Homes

In the Florida Keys, an elevator is more than a luxury. It’s about living comfortably today and in the years to come. It adds convenience, safety, and value to a home. And in neighborhoods like Pen Key Club, it’s one of the features that sets a home apart.

Click here to see all of the listings, Including the Pen Key Club Retreat

Featured Listing information and photo provided courtesy of Eric Rizo, Ocean Sotheby’s International Realty

buying advice • Florida Keys Real Estate • Vacation Rentals • August 20, 2025

Buying a Vacation Rental Property in the Florida Keys: What to Know About Regulations

by Tracy Larson

If you’ve been dreaming of owning a piece of paradise in the Florida Keys, chances are you’ve also thought about renting it out as a vacation rental when you’re not using it. After all, what could be better than a home that not only pays for itself but also welcomes you back to the island lifestyle whenever you want?

Before you start counting rental income, it’s important to understand how vacation rentals work in the Keys. Regulations, location, and property features all play a huge role in whether your home will be a successful rental—or sit empty waiting for guests.

Not All Properties Make Good Vacation Rentals

One of the first questions buyers often ask me is: “How much can I make by renting this home out?”

Here’s the reality: not every property in the Keys is a strong vacation rental.

Dry lot homes (those not on the water) are typically harder to rent. Visitors come to the Keys for fishing, boating, and waterfront views, so they naturally gravitate toward properties with water access.
Homes directly on the open water or on a canal with quick access to the ocean or bay are in much higher demand.
A swimming pool is another must-have for most renters. After a day on the water, vacationers love having a pool to relax by.

Understanding Rental Regulations

Vacation rental rules vary by community, so it’s essential to know what applies to the property you’re considering.

Most single-family neighborhoods in the Keys have a 28-day minimum rental period. This means you can’t simply rent your home out by the week (with one big exception below).
Marathon is the exception to the rule. The City of Marathon has a much more relaxed approach, allowing shorter-term rentals. That’s why Marathon is such a hotspot for investors looking to maximize vacation rental income.
Neighborhood and HOA rules may also restrict rentals. Some subdivisions don’t allow them at all, while others may have specific requirements.

What This Means for Buyers

If your goal is to generate rental income, focus on homes that:

✅ Are on the water (open water or quick canal access)
✅ Include a pool
✅ Fall within an area or municipality that allows short-term rentals (like Marathon)
✅ Don’t have restrictive HOA rules against vacation rentals

The good news is, once you find the right property, demand is strong! The Florida Keys remain one of the most desirable vacation destinations in the U.S., and renters are willing to pay top dollar for the right home.

Final Thoughts

Buying a home in the Keys can be both a lifestyle choice and an investment. The key (no pun intended!) is knowing the local rules and choosing a property that truly appeals to vacationers. With the right property and the right location, you can enjoy your own slice of paradise—and let it work for you when you’re not here.

Fishing • Florida Keys • Florida Keys Real Estate • Island Living • Lifestyle • August 19, 2025

Buying in the Florida Keys: Which Island Fits Your Lifestyle Best?

by Tracy Larson

Buying a home in the Florida Keys isn’t just about the house. It’s about finding the island that matches your way of life. Each Key has its own personality, pace, and quirks. Let’s explore a few favorites so you can picture yourself living the dream.

Key Largo: The Commuter’s Paradise

Key Largo is the northernmost island, which makes it the easiest to reach from the mainland. Many people commute to Miami or Fort Lauderdale from here, yet still enjoy a laid-back island feel at the end of the day. If you want quick access to big-city amenities while still living in the Keys, Key Largo is your spot.

Tavernier: A Hidden Gem With Its Own Airstrip

Just south of Key Largo is Tavernier, a quieter community with a close-knit feel. It’s home to Tavernaero, a neighborhood with its own private airstrip — one of just a small handful in the entire island chain. For those who fly, it offers an incredible convenience that’s rare in the Keys.

Islamorada: The Fishing Capital

Islamorada is all about the water. Known worldwide as the “Sportfishing Capital of the World,” this Key draws serious anglers and anyone who loves boating. The island also has a lively arts and food scene, which makes it a great mix of fun, flavor, and fishing.

Marathon: Family-Friendly and Central

Right in the middle of the Keys, Marathon is known for being family-friendly. It has schools, shopping, and a community feel that’s a bit more year-round than tourist-heavy. It’s also a short drive to the famous Seven Mile Bridge, which connects the Middle Keys to the Lower Keys.

Big Pine Key: Nature’s Playground

Big Pine has a totally different vibe. It’s quiet, peaceful, and famous for the tiny and protected Key Deer that roam the neighborhoods. Nature lovers enjoy the National Key Deer Refuge, the freshwater Blue Hole, and the rustic feel of No Name Key just over the bridge. If you dream of living close to nature, Big Pine is your place.

Summerland Key: For Pilots and Boaters

Farther south, Summerland Key is a hidden gem. Not only does it have deep-water canals that attract serious boaters, but it also has its own private airstrip — one of the only others in the Keys besides Tavernaero. If you fly in and out often, Summerland gives you a lifestyle few places in the world can match.

Key West: Anything Goes

At the end of the road lies Key West. Colorful, historic, and known for its “anything goes” vibe, Key West is unlike anywhere else. Whether you love live music, art, or nightlife, there’s always something happening. But don’t forget, Key West also has quiet residential neighborhoods tucked away from the party scene.

Finding Your Key

Each island has its own heartbeat. The right Key for you depends on what you love most: fishing, nature, nightlife, flying, or family life. That’s why working with someone who knows the islands inside and out is so important.

If you’re ready to find your perfect fit in the Keys, let’s talk about your lifestyle and match you with the island that feels like home.

Florida Keys Real Estate • Florida Keys Real Estate Market • Home Buying • Selling • Sold Listings • August 18, 2025

Florida Keys Market Update: What’s Selling?

by Tracy Larson

No market update would be complete without looking at what’s closing across the Keys. Last week, 38 properties sold from Key Largo to Key West, showing just how active our market continues to be.

Here are the highlights:

Average sold price: $1,348,632
Average days on market: 114
Average list-to-sale price ratio: 94%

At the top end, a Plantation Key oceanfront estate closed at $6,500,000. On the more affordable side, a camper with a deeded campsite in Key Largo sold for $330,000.

What does this mean for buyers and sellers?

Buyers can see the Keys offer both luxury estates and more modest getaways.
Sellers can take confidence in strong demand, with properties selling close to their asking price.

From multi-million-dollar homes to practical retreats, the Florida Keys continues to offer something for everyone.

Want to see all the details? 👉 Click here to view last week’s sold properties

Florida Keys • Florida Keys Real Estate • new listings • Property Spotlight • August 18, 2025

Monday Market Update – Florida Keys New Listings

by Tracy Larson

This past week, 44 new listings came on the market in the Keys. That’s a bit slower than earlier this summer, but there are still plenty of great options. Buyers can choose from waterfront homes, condos, dry lots, and vacant land. No matter what you’re looking for, there’s something out there.

✨ Spotlight Listing – Waterfront Paradise in Plantation Key

Welcome to Plantation Key, where this home makes the most of Florida Keys living. Step through the electric gate and into a tropical retreat.

Outdoor Living: Enjoy a newer pool, a hot tub surrounded by lush greenery, and a large covered entertaining area with canal views. The dock has a boat lift, a private ramp, and a floating dock for a skiff, kayaks, or paddleboards. There’s also an outdoor shower and storage for your gear. With direct bay access and quick Atlantic access, it’s a true boater’s dream.
Upstairs Living: The open-concept space has two bedrooms and one bath. The remodeled kitchen features a gas stove, stainless appliances, and a glass backsplash. The home also has updated plumbing, electric, A/C, and a newer roof. Warm wood ceilings and a big teak deck make it perfect for relaxing or dining outdoors.
Guest Space: Downstairs you’ll find a separate one-bedroom, one-bath apartment. It’s ideal for guests, family, or in-laws.
Extras: A spacious garage and workshop give you plenty of room for tools and toys.

This property comes fully furnished and ready for you to enjoy. A fantastic waterfront package at a great value—come see it for yourself!

Click here to see the full list of new properties

Boat Slips • Florida Keys • Florida Keys Boating • Florida Keys Real Estate • Island Living • Marina Living • August 15, 2025

Living Aboard in the Florida Keys: Your Floating Paradise Awaits

by Tracy Larson

Not everyone dreams of a white picket fence.
Some people dream of a gently rocking deck, the smell of salt air, and waking up to the sound of seagulls instead of an alarm clock.

In the Florida Keys, that dream is more than possible — it’s a real way to live.
Welcome to the liveaboard lifestyle.

Why Some People Trade Houses for Hulls

Living aboard your boat isn’t just for weekend sailors.
It’s a lifestyle choice that attracts retirees, remote workers, and adventure seekers.
Here’s why:

It can be more affordable than a waterfront home. A slip fee is often less than a mortgage.
No yard work. Your “lawn” is the ocean.
Freedom to move. If you don’t like the view, change it.
Built-in community. Marina neighbors often become friends for life.

For many, it’s not about saving money — it’s about living closer to the water, every single day.

How It Works

A liveaboard marina is a marina that allows you to stay on your boat full-time or for long periods.

Some slips are rented, while others are owned like a condo.
Marinas usually offer:

Restrooms and showers
Laundry rooms
Wi-Fi
Parking
Social spaces and events

Rules vary from marina to marina. Some allow year-round living, while others limit the number of liveaboard slips to keep a balance between transient boaters and residents.

Why the Keys Are Perfect for Liveaboards

The Florida Keys offer year-round boating weather and some of the best access to coral reefs, sandbars, and fishing in the U.S.

From Key Largo to Key West, marinas cater to different lifestyles:

Quiet and secluded — perfect for those who want privacy.
Bustling and social — for people who love events, happy hours, and dockside chatter.

Many buyers see living aboard as a stepping stone.
It’s a great way to enjoy the Keys now while deciding if (or where) to buy a traditional home later.

Is It Right for You?

The liveaboard life isn’t for everyone.
Here’s how to tell if it might be for you:

You like small, cozy spaces.
You don’t mind boat maintenance.
You love being outdoors and close to nature.
You’re okay with occasional visits from curious pelicans.

Your Floating Home Is Waiting

Whether you’re looking to downsize, try a new adventure, or ease into Keys living before buying property, living aboard could be your ticket to paradise.

If you’re curious about marina slips, boat-friendly neighborhoods, or even the best way to transition to island life, I can help.
Let’s find you a place where the sun sets over your own bow every evening.

Click here to see a list of liveaboard boat slips available in the Keys

Atlantic Ocean • buying advice • Dockage • Florida Keys • Florida Keys Boating • Florida Keys Real Estate • Lifestyle • Ocean Access • Open Water • Waterfront Homes • August 14, 2025

Dock Talk: Choosing the Right Waterfront for Your Florida Keys Lifestyle

by Tracy Larson

In the Florida Keys, a dock isn’t just a place to park your boat — it’s the launch pad to your lifestyle. Whether you’re chasing mahi in the Atlantic, watching the sunset over the bay, or sipping coffee while the water ripples in your backyard, the view from your dock can define your days. But here’s something many newcomers don’t realize: the majority of waterfront homes here are on canals — and not all canals are created equal. Some give you a quick hop to open water, while others make you meander through a maze before you get there.

Ocean Side Living

When your dock is on the ocean side, you’re just minutes away from the Atlantic. It’s a straight shot to deep blue water, making it perfect for offshore fishing, diving, or heading to your favorite sandbar.
The ocean side is a boater’s paradise, but it can be more exposed to waves and wind. That means a little more boat prep — and sometimes higher seawall maintenance — but the reward is quick access to endless adventure.

Bay Side Living

Bay side docks give you calmer, often shallower waters on the Gulf side of the Keys. It’s an ideal setup if you love kayaking, paddleboarding, or cruising to waterfront restaurants without the chop of the open ocean.
From the bay, you can still reach the Atlantic — you’ll just pass under or through one of the bridges that connect the islands. That leads us to one very important point…

Why Bridge Access (and Canal Layout) Matters

Whether you’re on the ocean side or bay side, your boating time depends on how your canal is laid out.
Some homes are right on a main canal, meaning you can be in open water in minutes. Others are tucked deep in a canal system, where you’ll weave through smaller canals before reaching a main channel. Add in bridge or cut-through clearance limits, and your trip could be longer — or restricted at certain tides.
If quick access matters to you, look for a home that’s close to a main canal and near a bridge or cut that fits your boat. It can save you time, fuel, and frustration.

Plugged Canals: Peace Without Passage

Not every waterfront home in the Keys has direct boating access. Plugged canals are closed off from open water, creating a calm, mirror-like surface that’s perfect for those who want the water view without boat traffic.
These spots are quiet, scenic, and still let you enjoy the benefits of living right on the water — just without the maintenance and insurance costs that can come with having a boat lift or open water access.

The Bottom Line

When it comes to docks in the Florida Keys, the “best” setup depends on your lifestyle. If you live for offshore fishing, ocean side may be your match. If you prefer calm cruising and waterfront dining, bay side could be perfect. If you want peaceful views without boating, a plugged canal might be just right. And remember — the closer your home is to a main canal and a bridge, the faster you’ll get to open water.

Closing:
In the Keys, your dock isn’t just part of your home — it’s the gateway to your adventures. Whether you’re chasing fish, chasing sunsets, or chasing a little peace and quiet, there’s a perfect waterfront spot waiting for you. When you’re ready to find it, I’m here to help you dock your dreams right where they belong.

Community Spotlight • Florida Keys • Florida Keys Real Estate • Florida Keys Real Estate Market • Indigo Reef • Marathon • Resorts • Vacation Rentals • August 13, 2025

Discover Indigo Reef: Marathon’s Waterfront Gem

by Tracy Larson

Indigo Reef is a beautiful, gated community on the Gulf of Mexico. It sits on more than 10 acres of private land, just minutes from the heart of Marathon. Here, you can enjoy the best of both worlds — close to shops, restaurants, and attractions, yet quiet and tucked away from the busy streets.

Room to Relax

The community feels like a private retreat. Lush landscaping, wide open spaces, and peaceful water views set the tone. You can walk the grounds, breathe in the salty air, and feel the stress melt away.

Amenities You’ll Love

Indigo Reef makes life easy and enjoyable with features designed for comfort:

Heated Resort-Style Pool – Spacious, sparkling, and surrounded by cushioned lounge chairs for ultimate relaxation.
Professional-Grade Fitness Center – Fully equipped so you can stay active without leaving the community.
Kayak Storage – Easy access to explore the calm Gulf waters at your leisure.
Ice Machine – Perfect for keeping your coolers ready for a day of fishing or boating.
Temperature-Controlled Storage – Located in the HOA building, with plenty of room for bikes, fishing gear, and other essentials.

Close to Everything

When you’re ready for a night out, Marathon’s dining, shopping, and attractions are just a short drive away. Yet when you come home, you’re back in your quiet, private oasis.

A Place to Call Home

At Indigo Reef, neighbors quickly become friends. Days are filled with sunshine and sea breezes. Evenings end with stunning Gulf sunsets right outside your door. It’s not just a place to live — it’s a lifestyle.

Click here to see the units available at Indigo Reef

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