Life In Bonita Springs

Bonita Beach Area Condo Market Update

There is currently twelve months of inventory in BN01 area / Bonita Beach area condos. That includes low, mid and high rise units along Hickory Boulevard. 

It is a buyers real estate market on the beach. Real estate is relative to the building and location so in this bundle of twelve months of inventory there are particular condo buildings with no units for sale or very low inventory. 
Location and condition also influence the inventory and availability of real estate both beachfront on the Gulf of Mexico and on the Bay and inland water ways, also known as the Intracoastal Waterway by some.

To see a map of all Bonita Beach condo buildings click here: Bonita Beach Condos For Sale

Condo Sales Trends in Bonita Springs & Estero Florida

Currently The Griffith Group has a listing in Valencia Bonita. We have held it open house a few times and noticed a trend. Many people are visiting from Bonita Bay and a few from The Colony or Pelican Landing. One couple from Bonita Bay and one from The Colony stated that they wanted to get more bang for the buck with regard to the fees and amenities. They are gorgeous communities but the buy in for sports/fitness memberships on top of the HOA and condo fees is just exorbitant.

One thing is for sure and it is that Valencia has the amenities. Also, it has no golf so it’s not as expensive as equity golf or even bundled golf communities.

There are only a handful of communities that fit the bill for tons of amenities without golf in Bonita Springs and Estero, Florida – Valencia Bonita, Lighthouse Bay and Village Walk.

I did some poking around after these folks left the open house. I had noticed that there were more units on the real estate market in Bonita Bay but I wanted to translate that into numbers.  Here are the details

Low rise condos: 5.9 months of inventory.  It’s gone from a heavy sellers market to a near balanced market.

High rise condos: 6.9 months of inventory.  It’s moved from a heavy buyers market to a slight buyers market.

Consumers have choices.  Just as an example, if you are buying a luxury high rise condo on the coast in Bonita Springs or Estero you have choices in Bonita Bay, Pelican Landing, The Ritz Carlton Residences at SaltLeaf  and West Bay Club.

If you’d like to learn more about using absorption rates to calculate inventory and potential time on market to sell or buy a condo in Southwest Florida call 239-273-7430 to get started today.  Let’s plan your next best steps getting you where you need to be.

Sold Villa Lighthouse Bay at The Brook Estero Florida

Signed sealed delivered This attached villa home in Lighthouse Bay at The Brooks closed sale, today! The owners of this home called us after we listed and sold the villa next door in a week. (with multiple offers) These folks had their villa on the market for months and months and it didn’t sell.

We evaluated current market conditions in both Estero Florida and Lighthouse Bay.  Then, we evaluated the property and made crucial recommendations to get the property sold quickly. Most importantly we asked for the seller’s permission to create a “blank slate” and then lightly stage the home before retaking photos with our professional photographers and videographers . We corrected a lot of errors in the prior listing including square footage that was missing from the property information. The data that populated from the county tax roll was wrong and registered as much smaller than the actual size.

Cleaned, prepped and ready this home was only on the market a short time before a buyer walked through the door and exclaimed, “This is it!” and cancelled the remaining appointments for the day before writing a full price offer! This amazing property has one of the best views in Lighthouse Bay and with the latest additions and improvements to the amenities has turned this community into one of the premier resort lifestyle communities in Bonita Springs and Estero Florida.

We sell homes of all shapes all sizes and all price points. We can also help sell homes that just don’t seem to be selling. It's our super-power If you’d like to learn more about selling your home the next best step is to call 239-273-7430. Let’s get started on the right plan to selling your property, today.

Read also, Hiring The Best Bonita Springs Listing Specialist

Read also, Lighthouse Bay at The Brooks Estero Florida

Bonita Springs Real Estate Market Update November 2023

Is The Real Estate Market Crashing or What?

So, what’s really going on in them Bonita Springs & Estero Florida real estate market this fall? The mainstream media news headlines are dramatic and confusing.  Clickbait has never been more profitable in the United States of America. Some of the headlines may be true but there is a lot of misinformation out there. There are so many moving parts to accurately answering this question.  Here are a few paths to investigate if you’re thinking of buying or selling a home or condo in Southwest Florida.

The Only Thing Certain is Change!

With twenty-five plus years experience as a Realtor in Southwest Florida I’ve seen more than a few swings and dips in the real estate market. Simply put, I am a numbers person.  Also, almost any goods or commodities you would try to buy and sell fluctuates in value due to supply and demand. Not exactly earth shaking news but consumers, often times being advised by newer, inexperienced agents who don’t know how to operate in a shift.  The consumers are either making offers blindly or too scared to make an offer because they do not having enough information.

Would You Buy in This Real Estate Market?

Why would anybody buy in this real estate market, anyway?  Well, real estate and life doesn’t happen in a vacuum.  You just never know when or why you have to move but you do.  Maybe you don’t have to move but you just want to move.  Many people have lived their entire lives with the dream of retiring in a warmer climate.  Someone who has the means to do so can move and purchase.  Sure they could wait for a different market but if one were in advanced years how long should they wait to let the good times roll? With the proper research  and representation they can slip into a new home or condo, assured they haven’t overpaid.  It takes work and diligence on the team to find the right area and even the right property. 

Experienced Listing Agents Matter!

The sellers are equally as unrepresented and are listing their homes with the person who gives them the list price they like the best – the highest list price.  Add to the mix, the fact that there are desperate or wildly inexperienced real estate agents who will “buy the listing” which means they either tell the seller some crazy high price to get the listing or cave the the seller’s ambitious and wildly inflated list price.  All the while the agent knows they will be asking for a price reduction in short order.

Whether you’re buying or selling there are a few things that you can use to ensure the best transaction under any circumstance.  This is a simplified list but here are three minimal requirements.

• An experienced real estate agent – experienced in years working and in units sold.
• An agent who knows how to calculate absorption rates. The length of time a property could take to sell.
• An agent who understands where similar or identical inventory can be located.  Where buyers can get the same home for less or where sellers can see where they are losing buyers to.
• An agent who is studying the incentives the developers and national home builders are putting out to attract both buyers and buyers agents.

We list homes and condos in Bonita Springs and Estero Florida not only using these skills but a variety of other proprietary calculations and marketing techniques.  If you’d like to learn more schedule a call 239-273-7430 or strategy session today.

Successful Bonita Springs Condo Sale - Bonita Springs Listing Agent

Another successful closing in Bonita Springs Florida!  Bonita Golf Villas Condo in the Bonita Golf & Country Club area of Bonita Springs near the new Bonita Del Sol development. 

The sellers of this condo contacted us to sell the  condo . The sellers were actually home buyers of a listing we sold more than ten years ago. When it came time to sell their “overflow housing” condo that they used for visitors, they reached out to The Griffith Group.  We had our work cut out for us.  The real estate market is moving but the condos have to be “sale ready” and sale ready for this condo first meant disposing of dated furniture from the 80’s and 90’s.  We reached out to our contacts at a variety of charitable organizations to collect items plus we placed ads on social media for free pick up of items.  Our handy helper, Zach, helped fix a few small items in the condo and disposed of that last of the household items that were either damaged or not desirable to others.  He hauled those items off site.

Totally prepped and ready, from list to accepted contract was only a week.  It closed a few weeks later after association approval of the buyers.  We are thrilled for the new owners who moved here from Idaho.  The sellers are delighted with the results and efficiency of this sale.

If you’d like to learn more about selling your home or condo in Bonita Springs, Estero, Naples or Fort Myers call today. I can share the best next steps in preparation of listing.  We provide checklists and vendor lists to keep you on track.  If you’re not in the area we have resources and the ability to effect these items on your behalf, too!

Bonita Springs and Estero Real Estate Market Report:

Entering the Summer Buying Season June 2023

Welcome to the Bonita Springs and Estero real estate market report, providing you with the latest insights into the current state of the housing market in these vibrant Florida communities. With a balanced market, a significant percentage of cash transactions, and a strong focus on properties below $600,000, both buyers and sellers have excellent opportunities to make informed decisions without pressure. As we approach the summer buying season, let's dive into the key details that will shape the market in the coming months.

Market Balance and Inventory: The Bonita Springs and Estero real estate market is currently experiencing a balanced condition, with approximately six months of inventory available. This equilibrium signifies a healthy market, where neither buyers nor sellers hold a distinct advantage. As inventory levels stabilize, buyers can explore a variety of options, while sellers can expect reasonable competition for their listings.

Cash Transactions and Affordable Homes: One notable trend in the region is the prevalence of cash transactions, which account for a remarkable 66% of all property sales. This high percentage of cash purchases demonstrates the desirability of the area, attracting investors and individuals with the means to secure properties swiftly. Buyers who can offer cash may have a competitive edge, particularly in fast-paced transactions.  Real estate is hyper local so even though the whole city is balanced there is a sellers market in many communities and neighborhoods.

A significant portion of sales, approximately 53%, falls under the $600,000 price point. This indicates a strong demand for affordable housing in Bonita Springs and Estero. Buyers looking for reasonably priced homes will find a smaller range of options to choose from bringing competition from other buyers.

Foreclosures and Market Stability: The Bonita Springs and Estero real estate market is still experiencing few foreclosures, reflecting the overall stability of the region's housing sector. This indicates a healthier market with fewer distressed properties, providing buyers with greater confidence in their investment choices.

Summer Buying Season: The summer buying season traditionally kicks off with the Independence Day holiday on July 4th. As we enter this period, several factors will come into play. Firstly, the inventory is expected to decrease as more buyers actively participate in the market. This decrease in supply, coupled with sustained demand, can lead to increased competition among buyers.  These buyers are searching for a winter residence to stay in as there are few rentals available.

Furthermore, with the summer months being a popular time for consumers to relocate or purchase vacation properties, we anticipate heightened interest and activity in the Bonita Springs and Estero real estate market. Buyers can leverage this period to explore various options and potentially negotiate favorable deals.

Looking Ahead: As we head into the fall season, it's essential to stay informed about the evolving market dynamics. With inventory projected to decrease further, buyers are encouraged to act promptly and engage with real estate professionals to find the best-suited properties.

In conclusion, the Bonita Springs and Estero real estate market is currently in a balanced state, offering opportunities for both buyers and sellers. With the summer buying season approaching, the market will witness increased activity and competition. Those who are waiting for prices or interest rates to go down will be disappointed. 

Stay tuned for regular updates and make informed decisions to navigate this dynamic real estate landscape successfully.  We regularly update on our YouTube channel.

Luxury Homes & Trophy Properties Bonita Springs Fl

Trophy properties or trophy homes are properties that are extremely unique to an area or specifically unique in pricing. I was speaking with a real estate agent I know who is in the Tampa area and we were talking about trophy homes and what type of pricing we have in our area relative to others. This morning I looked up what the pricing was for luxury homes and luxury condos in Bonita Springs that would be considered trophy.

Todays current listings would be indicative of what would be unique to the area and considered luxury real estate or a trophy home.  Those homes on Bonita Beach, Barefoot Beach always rank in the top prices and location.  At the time of this writing Q4 2022 are $5M and over.  The home on Bonita Beach was NOT on the gulf side of Hickory Blvd but on the bay side.  The home in Barefoot was on the “I” Inagua street and would be positioned third off of the Gulf of Mexico!

Other notable  properties in the top ten include high rise condos in Altaira at The Colony, Saltleaf at The Ritz Carlton Residences, Bayfront Gardens at Barefoot Beach and Seaglass at Bonita Bay.

The one thing that these properties have in common is proximity or view of the Gulf of Mexico.  They are all new or newer luxury properties. The properties in The Colony and in Bonita Bay off the Gulf and Country Club lifestyle in addition to the view.  These communities are also amongst a few exclusive neighborhoods in Bonita Springs with private beach parks for residents.

Bonita Springs luxury properties almost seem like a bargain compared to Naples luxury sales which at this time begin at about $25M and exceed $35M.

Text 239-273-7430 or click to schedule a strategy session to learn more about acquiring a property in one of these exclusive enclaves.

25334 Pinson Drive Bonita Springs Florida is located in San Carlos Estates in Bonita Springs, Florida. San Carlos Estates features over sized lots usually approximately 1.25 acres in size.   If you are searching for homes on land with acreage in Bonita Springs, San Carlos Estates offers the largest selection.

This remodeled & move-in ready residence offers the perfect combination of comfort, style, & convenience. Step inside & be captivated by the modern ambiance created by the latest design trends. The kitchen is a true showstopper with its subway tile backsplash, complemented by sleek quartz countertops & top-of-the-line stainless steel appliances. This kitchen will inspire culinary creativity. The floor plan seamlessly connects the kitchen to the living & dining areas, providing a perfect space for entertaining guests or enjoying cozy evenings with friends. The luxury vinyl floors add an elegant touch while being low maintenance & durable, perfect for waterfront living. The 4th bedroom & 3rd bath double as a stylish efficiency apartment. This versatile space can accommodate visitors or be a lucrative source of income as a short-term rental. Your guests will enjoy the privacy & convenience this self-contained unit offers. As you step outside, you'll be greeted by the stunning backyard oasis with huge patio, mature trees & mini-barn that can be a work shop or hobby room.  Situated on ¾ of an acre just a few blocks away from Riverside Park, the vibrant festival hub of downtown Bonita Springs, you'll have easy access to an array of entertainment, dining, & shopping options.

The real estate market in Bonita Springs and Estero, Florida continues to exhibit strength and resilience, as reflected in the latest market reports for the month of May 2023. Foreclosures are almost non-existent, a healthy number of units sold in the MLS, and a significant proportion of cash transactions, both homebuyers and sellers have reason to be optimistic. In this blog post, we will delve into the key highlights of the May real estate market reports, focusing on the sales statistics, financing trends, and the dominant price range.

Sales Volume and Unit Statistics: According to the May market reports, a total of 336 units were sold in Bonita Springs and Estero, signaling a robust level of activity. This does not include new construction. This figure reflects the sustained demand for real estate in the area and the attractiveness of these communities as desirable places to live. The strong sales volume suggests that buyers are actively seeking properties in Bonita Springs and Estero, contributing to a healthy real estate market.

Cash Transactions and Financing Trends: One of the standout features of the May market reports is the prevalence of cash transactions. A significant 72% of sales were conducted in cash, highlighting the presence of cash buyers who are likely investors or individuals who have liquid funds readily available for property purchases. This statistic showcases the confidence in the local real estate market and the attractiveness of Bonita Springs and Estero for cash buyers.

Conventional mortgages also played a prominent role in the real estate market, accounting for 25% of the transactions. This indicates that many buyers opted for traditional financing options, suggesting a positive lending environment and the availability of competitive mortgage rates. The presence of conventional mortgages further widens the buyer pool, making homeownership more accessible to a wider range of potential buyers.

Dominant Price Range: The May market reports reveal that the largest segments of sales in Bonita Springs and Estero fell within the price range of $400,000 to $600,000. This range demonstrates the strength of the mid-range market, catering to buyers who seek a balance between affordability and desired amenities. The popularity of this price range underscores the availability of quality homes within a reasonable budget, making Bonita Springs and Estero attractive destinations for buyers looking for value for their investment.

Conclusion: The May real estate market reports for Bonita Springs and Estero, Florida paint a promising picture of a thriving real estate market. With a limited number of foreclosures, a robust sales volume of 336 units, and a significant percentage of cash transactions, the market indicates both stability and investor confidence. The presence of conventional mortgages highlights the accessibility of financing options, ensuring a diverse pool of potential buyers.

Furthermore, the dominance of the $400,000 to $600,000 price range suggests that Bonita Springs and Estero offer a compelling blend of affordability and desirable amenities. These statistics indicate that the local real estate market is vibrant, offering ample opportunities for both buyers and sellers.

As the year progresses, it will be intriguing to monitor the real estate market in Bonita Springs and Estero, observing any potential shifts in sales patterns, financing trends, and price ranges. Nonetheless, the current market reports provide a positive outlook, indicating a flourishing real estate sector in these sought-after communities.

The real estate market in Bonita Springs and Estero, Florida continues to exhibit strength and resilience, as reflected in the latest market reports for the month of May. With a notable decline in foreclosures, a healthy number of units sold in the MLS, and a significant proportion of cash transactions, both homebuyers and sellers have reason to be optimistic. In this blog post, we will delve into the key highlights of the May real estate market reports, focusing on the sales statistics, financing trends, and the dominant price range.

Sales Volume and Unit Statistics: According to the May market reports, a total of 336 units were sold in Bonita Springs and Estero, signaling a robust level of activity. This figure reflects the sustained demand for real estate in the area and the attractiveness of these communities as desirable places to live. The strong sales volume suggests that buyers are actively seeking properties in Bonita Springs and Estero, contributing to a healthy real estate market.

Cash Transactions and Financing Trends: One of the standout features of the May market reports is the prevalence of cash transactions. A significant 72% of sales were conducted in cash, highlighting the presence of cash buyers who are likely investors or individuals who have liquid funds readily available for property purchases. This statistic showcases the confidence in the local real estate market and the attractiveness of Bonita Springs and Estero for cash buyers.

Conventional mortgages also played a prominent role in the real estate market, accounting for 25% of the transactions. This indicates that many buyers opted for traditional financing options, suggesting a positive lending environment and the availability of competitive mortgage rates. The presence of conventional mortgages further widens the buyer pool, making homeownership more accessible to a wider range of potential buyers.

Dominant Price Range: The May market reports reveal that the largest segments of sales in Bonita Springs and Estero fell within the price range of $400,000 to $600,000. This range demonstrates the strength of the mid-range market, catering to buyers who seek a balance between affordability and desired amenities. The popularity of this price range underscores the availability of quality homes within a reasonable budget, making Bonita Springs and Estero attractive destinations for buyers looking for value for their investment.

Conclusion: The May2023 real estate market reports for Bonita Springs and Estero, Florida paint a promising picture of a thriving real estate market. With a limited number of foreclosures, a robust sales volume of 336 units, and a significant percentage of cash transactions, the market indicates both stability and investor confidence. The presence of conventional mortgages highlights the accessibility of financing options, ensuring a diverse pool of potential buyers.

Furthermore, the dominance of the $400,000 to $600,000 price range suggests that Bonita Springs and Estero offer a compelling blend of affordability and desirable amenities. These statistics indicate that the local real estate market is vibrant, offering ample opportunities for both buyers and sellers.

As the year progresses, it will be intriguing to monitor the real estate market in Bonita Springs and Estero, observing any potential shifts in sales patterns, financing trends, and price ranges. Nonetheless, the current market reports provide a positive outlook, indicating a flourishing real estate sector in these sought-after communities.