Florida Keys • Florida Keys Real Estate • New Listing • Property Spotlight • July 21, 2025

42 New Listings Just Hit the Market in the Florida Keys—Here’s What You Should Know

by Tracy Larson

Looking to buy in the Florida Keys? Now might be the perfect time.

Last week, 42 fresh listings came on the market. That’s right—forty-three! And the best part? There’s something for every type of buyer.

📊 What’s New This Week?

The new listings include everything from waterfront condos to tropical single-family homes.

Some are tucked away on quiet canals. Others have wide-open ocean views. Prices range from the low $400s to several million dollars, so there’s a wide variety out there right now.

Also, many of these homes are move-in ready. Some even come fully furnished, which is a big win if you’re eager to settle in quickly.

✨ Featured Listing: Plantation by the Sea Condo in Islamorada

Let’s take a closer look at one of our favorites.

Welcome to Plantation by the Sea, a gated community in Islamorada. This remodeled 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom condohas it all—style, comfort, and oceanfront perks.

The open floor plan makes the space feel bright and airy. The gourmet kitchen includes granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, and room to entertain. Plus, the travertine floors, crown molding, and newer A/C give the home a polished finish.

Other upgrades include a tankless water heater and a ground-floor storage unit—perfect for your fishing gear or paddleboard.

Amenities That Make a Splash

Now, let’s talk about the extras. This community comes loaded with them.

You’ll have access to a:

Heated oceanfront pool
Fishing pier
Fitness center
Sauna
Clubhouse
And yes, even covered parking and guest spaces

Even better? You’re close to top-rated restaurants, unique shops, and all the best things to do in Islamorada.

⏳ Why You Shouldn’t Wait

Homes in the Keys move fast, especially well-kept ones like this.

With 43 new listings out this week, the market has fresh energy. But buyers are looking, too—so don’t wait too long to schedule a showing or ask questions.

💬 Ready to Explore?

Curious about this listing or want to see others that just came up? I’d love to help you find the right fit.

The Keys are calling—let’s find your slice of paradise! Click here to see the new listings!

Florida Keys • Island Living • Lifestyle • July 17, 2025

Living on Island Time: The Good, the Great, and the Sand in Your Shoes

by Tracy Larson

Have you ever stared at your computer screen during rush hour and thought, “I should be sipping something fruity under a palm tree right now”? If so, you’re not alone—and the Florida Keys might just be your dream come true.

But what does it really mean to live on island time?

As a Keys resident since 1987, I can tell you: it’s every bit as laid-back as it sounds—but it also comes with a few salty surprises. Whether you’re thinking about relocating or just daydreaming, here’s a peek behind the palm fronds.

🌴 Pro: Life Moves Slower Here—And That’s the Point

In the Florida Keys, no one’s in a hurry. The dress code is casual (think flip-flops and fishing shirts), the sunsets are sacred, and it’s totally normal to lose track of the day of the week.

✅ Translation: Stress melts like ice in a rum runner.

If you’re craving a lifestyle that values experiences over errands and where “happy hour” is a daily event, island time might suit you just fine.

🐠 Pro: Nature Is Your Backyard

Imagine snorkeling with parrotfish before breakfast or kayaking through mangrove tunnels after dinner. In the Keys, outdoor living isn’t a weekend activity—it’s a way of life.

✅ Fishing, diving, paddleboarding, and waterfront sunrises are part of the local routine. The ocean is never far, and the wildlife is world-class (yes, that includes the iguanas that my dogs love to chase off the porch).

🍹 Pro: Community with Character

From quirky festivals (hello, Fantasy Fest) to tight-knit neighborhoods, island life means you’re part of a real community. People wave. Shop owners know your name. And everyone has a story about the time they saw a manatee in their canal.

✅ Bonus: The Keys are filled with artists, adventurers, and entrepreneurs who wouldn’t dream of living anywhere else.

🌀 Con: You’ll Want a Hurricane Plan (and a Little Patience)

Life in paradise comes with the occasional interruption—mainly in the form of tropical storms. You’ll need a hurricane plan, storm shutters, and a bit of flexibility when it comes to weather.

❌ And while we’re on the subject of patience: expect things to take a little longer. Deliveries, contractor timelines, even getting a table during stone crab season—it’s all part of the Keys rhythm.

🛍️ Con: Limited Big Box Convenience

You won’t find a Target or a Costco here (the closest are hours away on the mainland). That means planning ahead and learning to live with what’s available locally—which, thankfully, includes plenty of fresh seafood and key lime pie.

❌ Online deliveries can take a little longer, too. But honestly, most locals wouldn’t trade it for anything.

🏠 Island Living Tip: Find the Right Fit

The Keys aren’t one-size-fits-all. Key Largo is more suburban and family-friendly. Marathon offers a central location with boating galore. Key West? It’s funky, fabulous, and full of flair.
Whether you’re a sunrise chaser or a sunset sipper, there’s a spot that matches your vibe.

☀️ Final Thoughts: Is Island Time Right for You?

If you’re ready to trade traffic for tranquility, deadlines for dolphins, and snow boots for sandals, then yes—island time might be just your thing.

It’s not just a location. It’s a lifestyle. One that slows you down just enough to enjoy every salty, sunny second.

Ready to Find Your Place in Paradise?
Let’s talk about what island life could look like for you. I’ve been helping people make the leap to Keys living for over 30 years—from Key Largo to Key West.

buying advice • Florida Keys • Home Buying • Island Living • Mosquito Control • July 16, 2025

Top 7 Florida Keys Local Secrets You Won’t Find in the Tourist Guides

by Tracy Larson

The Florida Keys are famous for sun-soaked beaches, turquoise waters, and Jimmy Buffett songs. But if you live here—or want to—you’ll quickly discover that there’s a whole other side to island life that tourists never see. These are the hidden gems, local hacks, and lifestyle perks that make the Keys not just a vacation spot, but a place to truly call home.

Whether you’re thinking of buying your first conch cottage or you’re getting ready to sell your slice of paradise, these insider tips reveal the real Keys living experience.

1. The Best “Beach” Isn’t a Beach

Locals love to hang out at Indian Key Fill near Islamorada. It’s not a sandy beach—it’s a shallow, rocky spot great for paddleboarding, snorkeling, and boat tie-ups. There’s no crowd, no entry fee, and no vendors—just nature. It’s the perfect “secret beach” that doesn’t show up on brochures.

2. Mosquito Season? Locals Have a Plan

Mosquitoes are part of island life, but residents know how to keep them in check. Most folks rely on natural sprays (shoutout to Murphy’s Naturals) and a good old-fashioned Thermacell. And yes, screened porches are practically a religion here.

3. Weeknight Happy Hours Beat the Weekends

Tourists pack the tiki bars on weekends, but locals know that weeknights are where it’s at. Try Lorelei’s in Islamorada or the Bayside Grill in Key Largo around sunset. The views are unbeatable—and so are the drink specials.

4. We Don’t “Do” Big Box Stores (Unless We Have To)

Locals prefer to shop small. Whether it’s fresh seafood from Robbie’s Marina, hardware from a locally owned store, or fishing gear from a neighborhood bait shop, shopping local is just the way we do things. That said, sometimes we need to hop online or head to the mainland for specialty items. But make no mistake—local shops always get first dibs on our business.

5. The Ocean Access Test

If you’re buying a home, don’t just look at the water—ask about ocean access. Can your boat clear the bridges? Is it easy to get to the Atlantic or Gulf? Locals know this can make or break your boating lifestyle, and buyers in the know are always asking.

6. We Time Our Errands by the Tide… and the Tourists

Locals know not to run errands during cruise ship drop-offs in Key West or on US-1 during Sunday checkouts. It’s a rhythm you learn quickly: tide tables in one hand, Google Maps traffic in the other.

7. Neighbors Are Like Family

The Keys aren’t just about real estate—they’re about community. Neighbors look out for each other, from hurricane prep to BBQ invites. Sellers often mention how hard it is to leave the neighborhood more than the home itself.

Thinking of buying or selling in the Keys?
Knowing these local secrets can give you a big edge. Buyers gain insight into what really matters. Sellers can highlight the things only locals appreciate.

Want to talk about your goals? I’m a local expert who’s lived and worked in the Keys since 1987, and I’d love to help.

Florida Keys • Island Living • Mosquito Control • July 15, 2025

Mosquito Control in the Florida Keys: Bite Back with Smart Solutions

by Tracy Larson

Let’s face it—living in paradise comes with its quirks. Stunning sunsets, turquoise water, fresh seafood… and swarms of relentless, buzzing, bloodthirsty mosquitoes. It’s the price we pay for all this tropical beauty. But just because we’re neighbors with nature doesn’t mean we have to be the local buffet.

Whether you’re new to the Keys or a seasoned conch, battling mosquitoes is a part of life down here. Luckily, you don’t need a hazmat suit or a fogging truck to keep your yard—and your sanity—mosquito-free. Let’s talk practical remedies, resident-friendly habits, and a few product picks (including a new favorite of mine) that actually work without making you feel like you’re waging chemical warfare in your backyard.

Drain, Dump, and Defend

First things first—mosquitoes love standing water like we love happy hour. If it holds water for more than a few days, it’s a five-star resort for larvae.

Here’s your checklist:

Dump out plant saucers, buckets, and kiddie pools (unless your toddler’s still in it).
Clean birdbaths and pet bowls weekly.
Check for clogged gutters and flat areas on tarps or boat covers where water can pool.
Don’t forget bromeliads! These beauties are mosquito magnets if left unchecked.

Think of it as spring cleaning… that just never ends. Welcome to the tropics.

Go Native with Landscaping

Want fewer bugs and less hassle? Plant smarter. Native plants like Spanish lavender, citronella grass, and marigolds are beautiful and bug-repelling. Bonus points: they’re low-maintenance and don’t require pesticides to thrive.

Avoid overwatering (a.k.a. accidental mosquito breeding grounds), and trim shrubs regularly to keep things from getting too cozy.

Fans: Not Just for Sweat

Mosquitoes are weak fliers. A good oscillating fan on your porch or patio can knock them off course like a leaf in a hurricane. Combine airflow with citronella candles, and you’ve got a relaxing, mosquito-discouraging oasis.

(And let’s be honest—any excuse to buy another outdoor gadget is a win.)

My Secret Weapon: Murphy’s Naturals

After years of testing sprays that smelled like motor oil and candles that worked about as well as wishing on a star, I finally stumbled on something different—Murphy’s Naturals.

These plant-based products pack a punch without harsh chemicals. The lemon eucalyptus spray keeps mosquitoes off without coating you in stickiness or synthetic smells. Their mosquito repellent incense sticks are surprisingly effective, and they add a laid-back, spa-like vibe to your patio. (Because fighting mosquitoes should at least feel relaxing.)

No, they’re not paying me to say this—I just really like them. And if you’ve been through three brands already this summer, it might be time to give Murphy’s a shot.

Community Matters

While individual efforts help, mosquito control is most effective when the whole neighborhood is on board. Consider organizing a local cleanup day to tackle communal areas where water collects. Share what’s working for you with neighbors—especially if it’s not Murphy’s Naturals, so you can keep the good stuff in stock.

Also, check in with Monroe County Mosquito Control for updates on spray schedules, mosquito counts, and more. They’re doing their part—we’ve just got to meet them halfway.

Final Thoughts (and a Few Itchy Ones)

Mosquitoes are a nuisance, but they don’t have to drive you inside for the season. A few simple changes—plus a solid arsenal of natural repellents—can keep your backyard livable and your blood your own.

So go ahead: light a citronella stick, pour a cold drink, and enjoy another stunning Florida Keys sunset—mosquito-free(ish).

Because if we’re going to live in paradise, we might as well enjoy it without being eaten alive.

Cooks Island • Florida Keys Real Estate • Key Largo • Lower Keys • new listings • property for sale • July 14, 2025

Florida Keys Real Estate Update: What Are You Looking For?

by Tracy Larson

The Florida Keys market has some fresh listings this week—and there’s something for almost every type of buyer.

Looking for low-maintenance living?
There’s a new listing at Moon Bay in Key Largo. This waterfront condo is a great option if you want to be close to the mainland but still enjoy the island lifestyle. Moon Bay offers great amenities like a pool, tennis courts, and a marina. It’s a smart choice for buyers who want convenience without sacrificing views.

Craving something more private?
Check out the two new listings on Cook’s Island in the Lower Keys. These off-grid beach cottages are perfect if you’re looking for privacy and a slower pace. Boat access only—and that’s part of the charm. These properties let you escape the crowds and soak up nature in peace.

Prefer a family home near everything?
New single-family homes in Marathon and Big Pine Key are now on the market. These homes are great for full-time living, with fenced yards, room to grow, and easy access to schools and shopping.

Not sure what fits your needs?
Take a moment to think about what matters most:

Boating access?
Low maintenance?
Room for guests or family?
Peace and privacy?

With options across the island chain, this is a great time to explore what’s available. Whether you’re looking for a weekend getaway or a full-time residence, I’m here to help you find the right match.

Let’s start the search for your place in the Keys. 🏝️ Click here to view the new listings.

Featured Listing • Florida Keys • Florida Keys Real Estate Market • Key Largo • Pool Homes • July 9, 2025

Nature Lover’s Paradise in Key Largo – Your Private Retreat Awaits!

by Tracy Larson

If you dream of peace, privacy, and being close to nature, this Key Largo home is for you. Set on almost half an acre and surrounded by a quiet nature preserve, this property has no direct neighbors. It’s a rare find—perfect for anyone who wants space, silence, and a deep connection to the outdoors.

Just steps from the Atlantic Ocean, this home feels like a secret getaway. Whether you enjoy watching wildlife or simply want a break from the busy world, you’ll love the peaceful setting here.

Inside and out, this home offers comfort and style:

A large screened patio with a big pool—great for relaxing or spending time with friends
A bright, open living area filled with natural light
A chef-style kitchen with high-end finishes and plenty of space to cook and gather
Spacious bedrooms that are calm and quiet
A lower level with two large storage rooms and covered parking

This home is perfect for anyone who loves the outdoors, craves privacy, or just wants a peaceful place to call home.

If I had a million and a half dollars, I’d be moving in myself!
Could this be the escape you’ve been searching for?

📍 Call me today to schedule a private showing or get more details about this one-of-a-kind Key Largo retreat.

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

Florida Keys • Florida Keys Real Estate • Florida Keys Real Estate Market • Housing Market • Market Statistics • July 8, 2025

Florida Keys Real Estate Mid-Year Snapshot (2025)

by Tracy Larson

Florida Keys Real Estate Market Update: Is the Slowdown Here to Stay? (Mid-Year 2025)

If you own property in the Florida Keys—or you’re thinking about buying or selling—understanding where the market stands is more important than ever. As of July 2025, signs are pointing to a noticeable shift: buyer activity has cooled, inventory is rising, and prices are beginning to level off in several areas.

Here’s a closer look at how the market is performing in the Upper, Middle, and Lower Keys, as well as in Key West.

Upper Keys

Includes: Key Largo, Tavernier, Islamorada

Active listings are up 8% compared to last year
Properties under contract dropped 18%
Closed sales fell 10%
Sales volume declined from $364.8M to $319.6M
Average sale price dipped slightly from $1.32M to $1.29M

What it means: The Upper Keys are clearly softening. More homes are available, but buyers are more cautious. Prices are holding for now, but momentum is slowing.

Middle Keys

Includes: Marathon, Duck Key, Key Colony Beach

Listings rose 11%
Contracts and closings declined
Sales volume dropped from $213.2M to $175.7M
Average prices fell from $1.28M to $1.20M

What it means: The Middle Keys are seeing a sharper slowdown. Fewer sales and lower prices are giving buyers the upper hand.

Lower Keys

Includes: Big Pine, Sugarloaf, Summerland, Cudjoe, and surrounding areas

Inventory surged from 724 to 1,020 active listings
Closed sales actually increased slightly
Sales volume held steady
Average prices slipped from $1.27M to $1.18M

What it means: The Lower Keys have seen a major rise in inventory. While buyers are still active, prices are beginning to ease under the weight of added competition.

Key West

Active listings are up 8%
Homes under contract dropped 18%
Closed sales are down 7%
Sales volume is steady, around $353 million
Average sale price jumped from $1.34M to $1.47M

What it means: Key West is a bit of an outlier. Although fewer homes are selling, prices are still rising—suggesting high demand in certain segments and continued interest in premium properties.

Final Thoughts

The Florida Keys market is not crashing—but it is shifting. The number of active listings is rising across the board, while the pace of sales is slowing. Some areas are already seeing price adjustments, while others, like Key West, are still seeing growth at the top end.

If you’re a seller, this is the time to review your pricing strategy and make sure your property stands out. If you’re a buyer, opportunities may be increasing—especially as competition cools.

Need help navigating what this means for your specific property or goals? I’m always happy to provide a detailed, no-pressure market analysis.

Big Pine Key • Buying • Florida Keys • Florida Keys Real Estate • Homes for Sale • new listings • July 7, 2025

🏡 Weekly Keys Real Estate Update — 46 New Listings + A Big Pine Bayfront Beauty!

by Tracy Larson

Happy Monday! It’s time for your weekly market update from the Florida Keys. Last week, 46 new listings came on the market. That means more options for buyers and new opportunities for sellers.

Let’s take a look at one standout listing from the week.

✨ Featured Property: Brand New Waterfront Home in Big Pine Key

3 Bedrooms | 3 Bathrooms | Canalfront | Rooftop Deck + Swim Spa

This beautiful, brand-new home offers the best of Keys living. It’s just four lots from Florida Bay and close to the open Atlantic. If you love boating, fishing, or wildlife, this one checks all the boxes.

Here’s what makes it special:

45 feet of concrete seawall with a fish cleaning station
Bay and sunset views from multiple angles
Easy boating access to Looe Key Reef, Picnic Island, and more
Manatees and tarpon often visit the canal out back

Inside, the home is bright and open. You’ll love:

Big windows that frame the views
A modern kitchen with custom oak cabinets and Ocean Blue quartzite island
3 full bathrooms, each with sleek custom cabinetry
Bedrooms with California-style closets

The perks don’t stop there:

Relax in the brand-new swim spa
Rinse off in the outdoor shower
Entertain on the rooftop deck
Store all your gear in the spacious downstairs storage area

This home is also close to restaurants, parks, and the natural beauty of Big Pine Key.

If you’re dreaming of island life, this one might be the perfect fit. Want to see it in person? Let’s set up a tour!

See you next Monday with more updates!

Click here to see the newest listings

Florida Keys • Florida Keys History • Florida Keys Real Estate • History • June 26, 2025

The Florida Keys and the Cuban Missile Crisis: On the Front Lines of History

by Tracy Larson

In October 1962, the world stood on the edge of nuclear war. The Cuban Missile Crisis was unfolding, and tensions between the United States and the Soviet Union reached a dangerous high. Most people remember Washington and Moscow in the headlines — but few know how central the Florida Keys were to this historic moment.

Close to Cuba, Closer to Conflict

The Florida Keys are just 90 miles from Cuba. That made them one of the closest U.S. territories to Soviet missiles stationed on the island.

As soon as American spy planes confirmed the presence of those missiles, the U.S. military began to act — fast. Key West, in particular, became a critical location. Troops arrived. Planes filled the runways. Naval ships lined the nearby waters. The Naval Air Station Key West became a launch point for surveillance and defense.

Military Presence Ramped Up

Over a few tense days, thousands of soldiers, airmen, and Marines moved into the Keys. Roads were filled with military vehicles. Locals watched as helicopters and jets flew overhead. Many feared that war was not just possible — it was imminent.

The U.S. Navy sent ships to create a blockade, stopping Soviet vessels from reaching Cuba. The Florida Straits, the waters between the Keys and Cuba, became a narrow line between peace and disaster.

Life in the Keys During the Crisis

For people living in the Florida Keys, daily life changed overnight. Schools discussed evacuation plans. Families stocked up on supplies. Rumors of air raids and missile strikes spread quickly.

Still, many residents stayed calm. Some had lived through hurricanes and knew how to prepare for emergencies. But even the calmest among them understood — this was different.

A Turning Point in History

After 13 days of standoff, diplomacy won. The Soviet Union agreed to remove its missiles from Cuba. In return, the U.S. promised not to invade the island and later removed missiles from Turkey.

The world breathed a sigh of relief. So did the residents of the Florida Keys.

Why It Still Matters

Today, you can visit military sites in Key West and learn more about how close the region came to war. The story of the Cuban Missile Crisis isn’t just one of global politics. It’s also a story of local communities — like those in the Florida Keys — that quietly stood on the front lines of history.

Just 90 miles from Cuba, the Florida Keys played a major role in one of the tensest moments of the 20th century. Their place in Cold War history deserves to be remembered.

Duck Key • Florida Keys Real Estate • Florida Keys Real Estate Market • Home Buying • Home For Sale • waterfront • June 25, 2025

Discover Duck Key: Island Charm with a View From Above

by Tracy Larson

Tucked away in the heart of the Middle Keys, Duck Key is one of those places that makes you take a second look. From the ground, it’s a serene island escape with quiet streets and clear turquoise waters. But from the sky? You’ll see where it gets its name. The island’s shape closely resembles a duck’s head—curved just right, beak and all.

Getting around is part of the charm. Duck Key is connected by a series of iconic white arched bridges. These graceful crossings link the island’s five neighborhoods and make every walk, run, or drive feel like a postcard moment. Whether you’re on Harbour Drive or down by Indies Road, you’re never far from the water—or a scenic bridge to take you there.

The lifestyle here is laid-back but active. Boating, paddleboarding, and fishing are daily pastimes. Neighbors wave. Golf carts cruise past. And when the sun starts to set? Everyone has their favorite dock or balcony to watch the sky change colors.

Real estate on Duck Key reflects its unique vibe. You’ll find everything from elegant canalfront homes with private docks to charming villas tucked just steps from the sea. Some properties offer sunrise views, others sunset. Many offer both.

Current listings show a healthy mix of opportunities for buyers. Whether you’re searching for a weekend getaway or a forever home, Duck Key delivers. Inventory tends to move quickly, thanks to limited supply and high demand. It’s a small island, after all—space is precious.

Thinking about making Duck Key your home or investment? I’d love to show you around. There’s nothing quite like crossing those bridges for the first time and knowing—you’ve found something special.

Click here to view the available homes on Duck Key

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