NerdWallet has ranked Naples as one of the best places to start a business in Florida.
The Collier County seat came in third on the list, after Maitland (near Orlando), and Doral, which is close to Miami. In its rankings, NerdWallet touted the white sand beaches, swanking shopping streets and abundance of golf courses in the Naples area 00 and the helping hands that are available to businesses from such organizations as the Fifth Avenue South Business Improvement District, and the Small Business Development Center at Florida Gulf Coast University.
Naples is well known because of the CEOs that come to the area. Many businesses have their annual meetings here, then realize they want to move their businesses here.
Nice news to tout!
Tuesday, January 10, 2017
Sunday, January 8, 2017
OPEN HOUSE: 9114 Astonia Way in Estero, FL
Its Sunday, January 8 and today finds me in Estero holding an open house at 9114 Astonia Way.
Its a three-bedroom pool home with a courtyard in the beautiful Reserve At Estero. Finding a little break here as traffic has been steady since I opened the house up at 1 pm. Click here to take a look at this place, located off of Estero Parkway, which runs between U.S. 41 and Three Oaks Parkway.
While this home has most everything, if it isn't exactly what you're looking for, drop me a line. I would be happy to help you find your perfect home, or Paradise Coast getaway!
Its a three-bedroom pool home with a courtyard in the beautiful Reserve At Estero. Finding a little break here as traffic has been steady since I opened the house up at 1 pm. Click here to take a look at this place, located off of Estero Parkway, which runs between U.S. 41 and Three Oaks Parkway.
While this home has most everything, if it isn't exactly what you're looking for, drop me a line. I would be happy to help you find your perfect home, or Paradise Coast getaway!
Sunday, January 1, 2017
Happy New Year!
I wish you for the blessings of the Season, and a most Happy and Profitable 2017, both personally and professionally.
May 2017 be your best year ever.....
May 2017 be your best year ever.....
Friday, December 30, 2016
January 2017 SW Florida Economic Indicators
If you like to read economic stats, you might enjoy the following.
Economic indicators for the Southwest Florida USA region remain strong and are getting stronger. The annual report of economic indicators, as published by Florida Gulf Coast University, shows strong evidence of a continuing strong economy along the Paradise Coast. We have new employers moving into the area, home sales are improving, and prices have stabilized in most areas.
My thanks for JRW colleague Nina Link for passing this along.
I hope YOU will enjoy, and pass it on!
Economic indicators for the Southwest Florida USA region remain strong and are getting stronger. The annual report of economic indicators, as published by Florida Gulf Coast University, shows strong evidence of a continuing strong economy along the Paradise Coast. We have new employers moving into the area, home sales are improving, and prices have stabilized in most areas.
My thanks for JRW colleague Nina Link for passing this along.
I hope YOU will enjoy, and pass it on!
Wednesday, December 28, 2016
Some Facts About Post-Recession Luxury Consumers
Here are some facts about post-recession luxury consumers, as compiled by Luxury Portfolio International.
1) 2008 financial crisis came as a shock.
2) Previously possessed fear-based buying habits, and insisted on the best price.
3) NOW, these consumers refuse to trade quality or craftsmanship.
4) And luxury consumers expect quality and craftsmanship to dictate price.
These consumers ask themselves, "Which details of this property are worthy of paying more?"
and,
"I know I paid more than I should have, but it was worth it."
Some interesting factoids to chew on during a quiet week between Christmas and New Year's Day.
1) 2008 financial crisis came as a shock.
2) Previously possessed fear-based buying habits, and insisted on the best price.
3) NOW, these consumers refuse to trade quality or craftsmanship.
4) And luxury consumers expect quality and craftsmanship to dictate price.
These consumers ask themselves, "Which details of this property are worthy of paying more?"
and,
"I know I paid more than I should have, but it was worth it."
Some interesting factoids to chew on during a quiet week between Christmas and New Year's Day.
Thursday, December 22, 2016
Happy Happy and Merry Merry!
Packing a few things up at the office, which will be closed until Tuesday. Though I will be working here and there, gearing up for January.
I wish you all the best of this holiday season. As I write this, different parts of the USA have snow, ice, and 60 degree weather after having both snow and ice. In Naples, Florida today, the temps are in the mid '80s after a cool morning. Perfect.
Friends are in town from Alaska, Texas, Colorado and Minnesota. Getting chances to visit with folks here and there as they prep their own holiday galas with family.
I will write more in the coming days, but 2016 has been a good year. The death of my mother last year was jarring but not unexpected, as she was diagnosed with cancer mid year and told it was an aggressive type with few treatments. She lived a full life, and went out of this world at age 88 with Grace, just as she wanted.
This year has been special for me in many ways, personally and professionally. I will leave it there, but sufficed to say I am happy. And excited to be with teaming with someone I call a friend, who is one of the most professional and accomplished real estate practitioners in SW Florida. As I have posted before, I am delighted to be affiliated with the leading real estate broker in the region -- John R. Wood Properties.
But for now I'm packing up and getting ready to head out onto U.S. 41, which is BUSY. Tis the Season, as we say here in Paradise!
I wish you all the best of this holiday season. As I write this, different parts of the USA have snow, ice, and 60 degree weather after having both snow and ice. In Naples, Florida today, the temps are in the mid '80s after a cool morning. Perfect.
Friends are in town from Alaska, Texas, Colorado and Minnesota. Getting chances to visit with folks here and there as they prep their own holiday galas with family.
I will write more in the coming days, but 2016 has been a good year. The death of my mother last year was jarring but not unexpected, as she was diagnosed with cancer mid year and told it was an aggressive type with few treatments. She lived a full life, and went out of this world at age 88 with Grace, just as she wanted.
This year has been special for me in many ways, personally and professionally. I will leave it there, but sufficed to say I am happy. And excited to be with teaming with someone I call a friend, who is one of the most professional and accomplished real estate practitioners in SW Florida. As I have posted before, I am delighted to be affiliated with the leading real estate broker in the region -- John R. Wood Properties.
But for now I'm packing up and getting ready to head out onto U.S. 41, which is BUSY. Tis the Season, as we say here in Paradise!
Monday, December 19, 2016
Easy Home Improvements To Attract More Buyers
If you are considering the sale of your home now or in the future, I would be delighted to share my knowledge and expertise with you. Just like a polished apple attracts more hungry snackers, a home that has been spiffed up a bit attracts far more buyers -- or is attractive enough to push someone over the edge from "I like it" to "I love it."
Here are a handful of improvements that generate more buyer interest, along with average return rates for each project according to HGTV.com.
1) Bonus Room Updates -- Average return at resale: 72.8 percent
Do you have an empty bonus room? Turn it into something practical. Keep in mind the needs of your target market and remember that families utilize these spaces differently than empty nesters. Bookshelves and cabinet additions can make for appealing storage spaces. Adding french doors helps potential buyers envision a play room or a home office.
2) Replacement Windows -- Average return at resale: 86.9 percent
Replacing windows can be a costly project. But DO NOT underestimate the return it brings. Energy conservation is big for buyers, and new technology equals big returns on investment. For hot climates like our Southwest Florida area, there is Low-E glass, which reflects heat by blocking infrared energy. Argon gas can be placed between window panes to prevent heat transference through the window. A lot of folks will replace traditional windows with impact glass for lower insurance bills, and to eliminate the need for hurricane chutters. When you do this, be sure to go with Low-E. Even replacing your pool cage sliders with Low-E can make a significant difference in your energy bill!
3) Kitchen Remodel -- Average return at resale: 91 percent
A complete kitchen remodel will be expensive, but its an investment that often pays off. Everyone tends to congregate in the kitchen, and a full package can be the factor that puts you above the competition. If the values of homes in your community have increased, and your kitchen isn't up to par, consider a major remodel rather than small fix ups. Eat-in kitchens are high on the list of buyer desirables.
4) Bathroom Remodel -- Average return at resale: 93.2 percent
Whether you go small or big on bathroom updates, there's a consistent return on investment. Sometimes relocation of the major pieces can give the illusion that there's more space. New lighting, a linen closet, and fresh tile can equal a big payoff that buyers will love.
5) Exterior Improvements -- Average return at resale: 95.5 percent
An updated front entryway and some fresh paint turns MANY buyers' heads! One gallon of paint covers roughly 400 square feet, and is one of the most cost effective upgrades to increase your home's curb appeal. Accent lighting can draw more attention to your home's best exterior features and provides a sense of security.
6) Landscaping -- Average return at resale: 100 percent
This is a no-brainer investment to bring more interested buyers to your doorstep. If you're stuck for ideas, most garden centers offer free consultations. Find a color scheme with your landscaping that accents your home's color palette. A custom walkway and fountain adds considerable appeal. When we purchased our home in North Naples, it was like a jungle. For one thing, it was surrounded by far too many very high privacy hedges. We spent many weeks cleaning it up and replanting. We constantly receive compliments from our neighbors about our beautiful house, that they only recently have been able to see. It was hidden by too much greenery.
If you'd like to know more about how to increase your home's marketability compared with other homes for sale in your community, or anything else regarding the sale of your home, please feel free to contact me. I would be happy to discuss it with you. Further, if you or someone you know requires the services of a real estate professional in the future, please allow me to outline how I can not only meet your needs, but exceed your expectations.
Here are a handful of improvements that generate more buyer interest, along with average return rates for each project according to HGTV.com.
1) Bonus Room Updates -- Average return at resale: 72.8 percent
Do you have an empty bonus room? Turn it into something practical. Keep in mind the needs of your target market and remember that families utilize these spaces differently than empty nesters. Bookshelves and cabinet additions can make for appealing storage spaces. Adding french doors helps potential buyers envision a play room or a home office.
2) Replacement Windows -- Average return at resale: 86.9 percent
Replacing windows can be a costly project. But DO NOT underestimate the return it brings. Energy conservation is big for buyers, and new technology equals big returns on investment. For hot climates like our Southwest Florida area, there is Low-E glass, which reflects heat by blocking infrared energy. Argon gas can be placed between window panes to prevent heat transference through the window. A lot of folks will replace traditional windows with impact glass for lower insurance bills, and to eliminate the need for hurricane chutters. When you do this, be sure to go with Low-E. Even replacing your pool cage sliders with Low-E can make a significant difference in your energy bill!
3) Kitchen Remodel -- Average return at resale: 91 percent
A complete kitchen remodel will be expensive, but its an investment that often pays off. Everyone tends to congregate in the kitchen, and a full package can be the factor that puts you above the competition. If the values of homes in your community have increased, and your kitchen isn't up to par, consider a major remodel rather than small fix ups. Eat-in kitchens are high on the list of buyer desirables.
4) Bathroom Remodel -- Average return at resale: 93.2 percent
Whether you go small or big on bathroom updates, there's a consistent return on investment. Sometimes relocation of the major pieces can give the illusion that there's more space. New lighting, a linen closet, and fresh tile can equal a big payoff that buyers will love.
5) Exterior Improvements -- Average return at resale: 95.5 percent
An updated front entryway and some fresh paint turns MANY buyers' heads! One gallon of paint covers roughly 400 square feet, and is one of the most cost effective upgrades to increase your home's curb appeal. Accent lighting can draw more attention to your home's best exterior features and provides a sense of security.
6) Landscaping -- Average return at resale: 100 percent
This is a no-brainer investment to bring more interested buyers to your doorstep. If you're stuck for ideas, most garden centers offer free consultations. Find a color scheme with your landscaping that accents your home's color palette. A custom walkway and fountain adds considerable appeal. When we purchased our home in North Naples, it was like a jungle. For one thing, it was surrounded by far too many very high privacy hedges. We spent many weeks cleaning it up and replanting. We constantly receive compliments from our neighbors about our beautiful house, that they only recently have been able to see. It was hidden by too much greenery.
If you'd like to know more about how to increase your home's marketability compared with other homes for sale in your community, or anything else regarding the sale of your home, please feel free to contact me. I would be happy to discuss it with you. Further, if you or someone you know requires the services of a real estate professional in the future, please allow me to outline how I can not only meet your needs, but exceed your expectations.
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