Collier County: A Top Retirement Destination in Florida

As a long-time REMAX agent in Naples, Florida, I’m not surprised that Collier County continues to rank among the best places to retire in the Sunshine State. With its breathtaking Gulf Coast beaches, vibrant communities, and endless recreational opportunities, it’s easy to see why so many retirees choose to call this part of Southwest Florida home.

In a recent survey conducted by SmartAsset, Collier County earned the sixth spot on the list of top retirement destinations in Florida. This recognition further highlights the area’s appeal for those looking to enjoy their golden years in paradise.

What Makes Collier County a Great Place to Retire?

Several factors contribute to Collier County’s high ranking, including:

• Low tax burden
• Top-notch medical care
• Abundant recreational opportunities
• A wide range of active retirement communities

These elements combine! ...

The real estate industry is undergoing significant transformations following a groundbreaking settlement involving the National Association of Realtors (NAR) and major brokerages. This settlement, which resulted in a payment exceeding $950 million, aims to bring more transparency to how brokers and agents are compensated. However, these changes have sparked debates and concerns about their potential impact on market dynamics and relationships between buyers, sellers, and agents—especially in hot markets like Naples, Florida.

Key Changes Impacting the Real Estate Market
• Removal of Commission Listings on MLS: One of the major shifts is that offers of compensation can no longer be listed on the Multiple Listing Service (MLS). Now, sellers must independently decide whether and how much to compensate a buyer’s broker. While this information can no longer be published on the MLS, it can still be communicated informally via phone calls or social media.

• Man. ...

A Guide for Canadians Buying Property in Florida
Are you dreaming of escaping the harsh Canadian winter? Florida, with its endless sunshine, could be the perfect place to make that dream a reality. As a Canadian, you can own property in the Sunshine State, and I’m here to help you navigate the process.
Can Canadians Buy Real Estate in Florida? Absolutely! Canadians can purchase property in Florida without restrictions. The process is straightforward, similar to what other international buyers experience. It involves obtaining a tax identification number, opening a U.S. bank account, and covering the associated fees and taxes. Keep in mind that Florida’s property rules and regulations might differ from those in Canadian provinces, so it’s essential to be informed.
Cost Considerations When buying property in Florida, especially in popular areas like Naples, Bonita Springs, or Estero, it’s important to factor in costs beyond the down payment. These ...

Mortgage Rates Hit Lowest Point in Over a Year, Offering Relief to Buyers and Homeowners
If you're in the market for a new home or considering refinancing, now might be the perfect time. This week, the average 30-year mortgage rate dropped to its lowest level in more than a year, bringing a welcome boost to affordability for prospective buyers and homeowners alike.
According to Freddie Mac, the rate fell to 6.47% from last week's 6.73%. A year ago, the average rate was 6.96%. This marks the second consecutive week of declining rates, bringing it to the lowest point since mid-May of last year when it hit 6.39%.
For those with 15-year fixed-rate mortgages, which are commonly chosen by homeowners looking to refinance, there's more good news. The average rate dropped to 5.63% this week, down from 5.99% the previous week. Last year, this rate was at 6.34%, making this a prime opportunity for those looking to reduce their borrowing costs.
“The decline in mortgage rates does incre! ...

Great news for New Englanders planning a trip to Naples and the Southwest Florida area! It's never too early to talk about the upcoming season in Southwest Florida, especially if you're a commercial airline planning new routes from Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) in Fort Myers.
New Routes from JetBlue
In the last month, several airlines have announced new routes to and from Fort Myers, with the most recent being JetBlue. On Wednesday, July 24, JetBlue revealed its plans to expand its service, introducing new routes that will connect more New Englanders to premium leisure destinations, including Southwest Florida. This is fantastic news for tourists and snowbirds who spend their winters in Fort Myers, Naples, and Cape Coral, as highlighted by Mark H. Bickel of Naples Daily News.
JetBlue's New Additions to RSW
JetBlue's winter schedule includes an average of 18 new daily departures from New England and six new routes between New England and Florida, with two of these . ...