It is no surprise that Florida ranks in the top five for locations of both luxury homes and condos. With the longest coastline in the contiguous United States, stretching approximately 1,350 miles, building luxurious residents is common place. Due to the economic down turn nationwide these impressive palaces have experienced downward pressure on pricing. This makes now a better time than ever to purchase these homes.
Luxury Homes
According to Barrons magazine, Florida is home to two of the best luxury home destinations in the country. Below is what Barrons had to say about Captiva, Sanibel, and Gasparilla Islands.
- Captiva/Sanibel Island: Sitting off the coast of Fort Myers, a nerve center of America’s foreclosure crisis, the barrier islands of Captiva and Sanibel are the very picture of laid-back living. Linked by a bridge at Sanibel’s northern point, the islands are renowned for their pristine beaches and abundant seashells. Then there are the hiking trails; half the island is a nature preserve. The late Robert Rauschenberg is, even in death, one of the largest landowners. His 35-acre spread, complete with studio, is intact on Captiva’s northern end.
Median Price: $3.5 million
Drop From Peak: 40%
Neighbor: Ted Koppel - Gasparilla Island: Katherine Hepburn used to rent a beach house here, and it’s easy to see why. The small island off Florida’s southwest coast has been lovingly preserved: The Gasparilla Act, a state law passed in 1980, put a tight lid on population density, building heights and commercial development. Golf carts — some customized to resemble ’57 Chevys — are the favored mode of transportation. The historic downtown has gracious homes, and the waters around the island are renowned for tarpon fishing. To check it out, check into the plush Gasparilla Inn.
Median Price: $1.8 million.
Drop From Peak: 18%
Neighbor: Harrison Ford, frequent visitor.
Condominiums
Here is a quick breakdown of two of the best condo communities that provide the most for your dollar:
- North Star: These luxurious waterfront condos are positioned on 12 plush acres of botanical grandeur in North Fort Myers, and just steps away from an all service marina. North Star Yacht Club features the largest floor plans on the water in SW Florida. With breathtaking waterfront views and southern exposure, keeping their pool side in optimal light all day long. All residents enjoy concierge services to the onsite movie theater, health club and spa. In addition the condos are completely gated with 24-hour security. Prices have been cut in half from 2008 values with spacious 2 Bedroom, 2 Bath with Den’s from $239,900. Three bedrooms and penthouses are also available. It’s easy to see why North Star is this area’s #1 selling condo community!
- High Point Place: Five soaring residential towers stand watch over the Caloosahatchee River which provides access to the intracoastal waterways. Located in downtown Fort Myers, High Point Place is the tallest residential towers in beautiful Southwest Florida. But the buildings are not the only awe-inspiring site the amenities are world class as well. In addition, each unit offers private entry to your residence from a private elevator. Wake up to the morning sunrise over coffee and enjoy the downtown skyline over dinner. Unit’s start from the mid $300′s and for these prices you won’t be disappointed!
