Say Goodbye to The H Word!!! November 30th ... It's Time to Party in The Keys - Hurricane Season is OVER!!!

Phewwww!  And good riddance!! I always get a little tingle in my step on November 30ths.   A busy season quantity wise, but luckily for us, most of the storms had little, if no, direct impact on us this year. So, I guess it's time to stop humming my favorite Jimmy Buffet song, Trying to Reason With Hurricane Season (check out the nice video I found on YouTube..be sure to pause the music playlist on the lower left of this page before you play, so you don't have 2 things at once), put the generator in storage and use all my batteries for Holiday presents.



Hurricane Memorial in Islamorada

I get asked quite a bit by Buyers about the effects of Hurricanes on our market here in the Keys.  My response is...they are a fact of life here. They are wound into the very DNA of Keys Living.  From the storms that ravaged to Spanish Fleet in the 1700's to the tragic Labor Day Storm of 1935 to recent tempests such a Wilma, Hurricanes are, and will be a fact of life here.  That being said...advances in storm preparation, communication, prognostication, and building materials and zoning have made living with these menaces...manageable.   So, to my Buyers I always advise to be proactive!  Preparation, a good plan, strong shutters/impact windows....and great insurance, all help in keeping your property and sanity together.
I lived in California for 10 years and was in the 1989 Earthquake, and like here, those shakers are just a fact of life.  At least Hurricanes, generally, have some forewarning.
So, until at least June 1st, let's say goodbye to the Hurricane parties, the crazed weather reporters outside in 100 mph winds and rains...looking like complete idiots, (no offense Julie Durda and Lizzette Gonzalez, who both read this blog, but what is up with that???), and our tracking charts and get ready for some real craziness...The Holiday Season!!

Ready to find YOUR Port in the Storm???  Put the Conchquistador to work for you! For more information on the outstanding real estate opportunities that exist in the Keys, call me at 305.439.7730 or email me at DropAnchor@TheRealEstateConch.com.

Ready to create your own no-hassle shopping cart of available Properties in the Florida Keys, with multiple search capability? Click here: ConchMLS.com.

WOW... Sold BELOW Appraised Value! Buccaneer Point Waterfront Home - The Conchquistador Deal of The Day 11/30

37 Mutiny Place,  Key Largo
Ahhh Waterfront Living!  The crisp salty smell of the crystalline Florida Keys.
Waterfront Living...the ESSENCE of residing on an Island.  Waking up, grabbing your coffee and heading out on the boat.  Fishing,diving, and plundering are yours to be had! Dolphin Fishing in the Morning, Wreck Diving in the Afternoon and Bonefishing in the Early evening.
The magnetic draw that appeals to the Pirate in all of us who love being on, in, and about the water.

Well, thanks to our sluggish economy and the horrors of the Real Estate Bursting Bubble, those that weathered the storm, continue to have remarkable opportunities to live that Waterfront Life!!

Today's deal is yet another of those opportunities that you wish that YOU had seized!

OPENNNN Water...yet private.  Located in Buccaneer Point, one of Key Largo's premiere communities, this waterfront home was recently sold by my friend, colleague, and broker, Joy Martin.  Stunning Views from inside the home and a long dock that leads to sitting area with beautiful open water.  It had been listed at $1,299,000 and has now sold at $850,000!! WOW.

37 Mutiny Place,  Key Largo

List price: $899,000 / Sold Price $850,000
Original List price: $1,299,000


3 bedrooms / 2 Bathrooms


Mile Marker 98 Bayside


Description: PRICED BELOW APPRAISED VALUE! BUCCANEER POINT BAYFRONT! OWNER SAYS SELL! 3/2, CBS construction with pier dock into the Bay. Plenty of storage & room for all your water toys! Property is fenced and beautifully landscaped w/lighting for privacy. Dock can accommodate 30-40 ft boat; walk-around balcony, large screened porch facing the Bay!

View Detailed Brochure With Photos

View Mapped Location

View Available Buccaneer Point Homes

Key Largo Waterfront Homes $750K-$1M

Put the experience and expertise of The Conchquistador to work for you! For more information on the outstanding real estate opportunities that exist in the Keys, call me at 305.439.7730 or email me at DropAnchor@TheRealEstateConch.com.

Ready to create your own no-hassle shopping cart of available Properties in the Florida Keys, with multiple search capability? Click here: ConchMLS.com.

Waterfront Living!! From $1,000,000 to $700,000 - The Conchquistador Deal of The Day 11/29/11

1318 Calder Road, Key Largo

Gotta love waterfront Homes!! Located right smack dab on Blackwater Sound and just a stone's throw from Adam's Cut (The Key Largo Divide that allows boat Traffic from The Bay to Ocean Side), this home that was just sold by my friend and colleague Joel Young, is one of those fantastic deals that I am always carrying on about.

Originally listed At $1,100,000, it sold for $700,000!!  WIDDDEEEE water views, beautiful interior, and an elongated dock with Boat Lift and just a sampling of the treasures to be found by it lucky new owner!

Are YOU ready to take the plunge into Waterfront Living??

1318 Calder Road, Key Largo

List Price: $795,000 / Sold Price: $700,000
Original List Price: $1,100,000

3 Bedrooms / 2 Bathrooms

Mile Marker 103 Bayside

Description: Short Sale Circumstance. Beautiful bayfront home with panoramic views. Custom home built in 2007 offering impact windows and doors w/175mph wind load, 14'x8' swim spa, and hot tub.

View Detailed Brochure with Photos

View Mapped Location

Key Largo Waterfront Homes $500-750K

Key Largo Foreclosures

Ready to take the plunge into Waterfront Living??  Put the experience and expertise of The Conchquistador to work for you! For more information on the outstanding real estate opportunities that exist in the Keys, call me at 305.439.7730 or email me at DropAnchor@TheRealEstateConch.com.

Ready to create your own no-hassle shopping cart of available Properties in the Florida Keys, with multiple search capability? Click here: ConchMLS.com.

Mother Ocean Marine Consignment Hits the Big Time With an Article in The Miami Herald!!

Mother Ocean Herald Article

I Love seeing a success story first hand!  About a year ago, I wrote a blog entry about a super new store that opened in Key Largo as a Marine Consignment shop.

Well now, my favorite little shop in the Keys has finally made it big!

Check out the article from the Miami Herald.   http://www.miamiherald.com/2011/11/18/v-print/2508413/ahoy-bargain-hunters-marine-consignment.html 

Since my previous article, I have made mother Ocean, my Go-To place, for Bumpers, Line, Rods and Reels, and even Stone Crab Traps. Inventory changes daily, so you never know what you may find.  My latest purchase was an anchor retrieval system in excellent, that I got for almost 60% less than at most marine retailers.

And the best part is the warm welcome I and all their customers get when they walk thru the door.

Best wishes and continued success to my friends Lysa and Reuven!

 
Work with an Agent who KNOWS how to spot a Bargain!!  Put the experience and expertise of The Conchquistador to work for you! For more information on the outstanding real estate opportunities that exist in the Keys, call me at 305.439.7730 or email me at DropAnchor@TheRealEstateConch.com.

Ready to create your own no-hassle shopping cart of available Properties in the Florida Keys, with multiple search capability? Click here: ConchMLS.com.

Third Thursday Artwalk Followed by Late Night Jam at The Green Turtle - There's ALWAYS something Fun to Be Had in Islamorada...Day AND Night!!!

Tonight's the BIG night!! Morada Way Arts & Cultural District's Third Thursday Walkabout! Incredible music, art, food, wine and culture. I don't know about you, but that sounds pretty damn good to me! Let's stroll together in the heart of Islamorada! I  hope to see you there!

More and more our Thursday night Walkabouts are becoming a must do not only for the Keys, but for South Florida in general.   Our burgeoning Art Scene is just one more unique activity that puts us square on the International Map. Take a look at this great video!  (First though, put the Conchquistador Soundtrack to the right in Pause)

Late Night Fun at The Green Turtle

And don't forget the late night Jam session at The Green Turtle afterwards, you never know WHO might show up!!

There's ALWAYS something fun going on in The Florida keys..Day AND Night!

Put the experience and expertise of The Conchquistador to work for you! For more information on the outstanding real estate opportunities that exist in the Keys, call me at 305.439.7730 or email me at DropAnchor@TheRealEstateConch.com.

Ready to create your own no-hassle shopping cart of available Properties in the Florida Keys, with multiple search capability? Click here: ConchMLS.com.

The Numbers Are In!!! 3rd Quarter Florida Keys Sales Report! Very Interesting Stats!

Number of Waterfront Homes Sold 1st 3 Quarters

Numbers....I love the stories that they tell.  The veracity they hold. The unemotive truth they boldly display.   They do not care what common perception is.  They do not care of conventional wisdom.  They simply ...do not ... care.  They just ... are.

So, while the world in seemingly in a tailspin with nightly reports of the doom and gloom in the Real Estate Market.  Someone forgot to tell they Keys!!

During the first 3 Quarters of 2010, 112 waterfront homes were sold in the Upper Keys.  In 2011, a staggering 172!  A Dramatic positive change of 53.6%!!

Median Waterfront Home Price 1st 3 Quarters

As well, in the Upper Keys, the Median price during that same time of 2010 for a Waterfront Home was $550,000.  In 2011, $620,000!  A 12.7 % increase.

So, there is definitely a MAJOR Change evolving in our Market.  The Supply and Demand paradigm is on the Move and the smart money is jumping on the Overseas Highway and heading to The Keys Before it's too Late!!

Contact Me For Your Full Copy!

There are still Phenomenal deals for Buyers down here and for Sellers, now that they Buzz is in the Air, it's a great time to have your property on the Market, as properties ARE selling.

What story will YOUR numbers tell??

For my full copy of my Florida Keys 3rd Quarter Report, please email or call me.
Put the experience and expertise of The Conchquistador to work for you! For more information on the outstanding real estate opportunities that exist in the Keys, call me at 305.439.7730 or email me at DropAnchor@TheRealEstateConch.com.

Ready to create your own no-hassle shopping cart of available Properties in the Florida Keys, with multiple search capability? Click here: ConchMLS.com.

Put Your Running Shoes On! It's time for the Third Annual Key Largo Bridge Run!

Put Your Running Shoes On!  It's time for the Third Annual Key Largo Bridge Run!

I cannot image a more scenic run, cresting upon Jewfish Creek, 65 feet up, Barnes and Blackwater Sounds on either side and crisp Keys air.  Talk about a Runner's High!!

I was privileged to run in the inaugural race, and though I will not be running this year, I will certainly be there in spirit!

Below is a great write up from the Florida Keys and Key West Website:

"KEY LARGO, Florida Keys — More than 600 participants have registered for the third annual Key Largo Bridge Run, a spectacular out-and-back foot race offering panoramic views of the Upper Keys and the eastern edges of the Florida Everglades. The race is set for Saturday, Nov. 12.

The 10k, half marathon and 5k run/walk event, presented by the Key Largo Baptist Church, typically entices running enthusiasts of all ages. Entrants in the 2011 challenge hail from 27 American states, the Bahamas, Brazil, Germany and Switzerland. The 2010 race attracted more than 900 contestants.
Runners along the USA Track & Field-certified course cross the 65-foot-high, 1.25-mile-long Jewfish Creek Bridge and occupy the northbound lanes of the bridge and the southern portion of the 18-Mile Stretch, a section of the Overseas Highway that connects mainland South Florida with Key Largo.

The Key Largo Bridge Run is to be held in conjunction with a Health and Fitness Expo sponsored by Florida Keys AHEC. The expo is set for noon to 6 p.m. Friday, Nov. 11, at the Key Largo Holiday Inn, mile marker (MM) 100.
A variety of vendors and health screenings are available from noon to 9 p.m., and race participants can pick up race packets during that time. A silent auction is scheduled as well.
A Friday night spaghetti dinner is to be hosted by DiGiorgio's Café Largo, MM 100 bayside, between 4:30 p.m. and 11 p.m. Tickets are $12 per person.

Race entry fees are $35 per person for the 5k, $70 for the half marathon and $50 per person for the 10k. Participants age 17 and under pay $12. Registration closes at 11:59 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 10. The first 1,000 race registrants receive a free T-shirt. There is no admission charge for the Expo.
Event proceeds benefit local charities including Key Largo Baptist Church, the Autism Society of the Keys, Florida Keys Down Syndrome Educational Fund and the Key Largo Bridge Run Scholarship Fund.
Event information: www.keylargobridgerun.com
Key Largo visitor information: 800-822-1088 "
Put the experience and expertise of The Conchquistador to work for you! For more information on the outstanding real estate opportunities that exist in the Keys, call me at 305.439.7730 or email me at DropAnchor@TheRealEstateConch.com.

Ready to create your own no-hassle shopping cart of available Properties in the Florida Keys, with multiple search capability? Click here: ConchMLS.com.

Do you Like It....Hot??? The Keys Have Some Sauce for You!!!

Jalapeno, Scotch Bonnet, Habanero, Ghost Chile....Peppers that could make a Pirate cry, or at least mist up.

We're talkin' about Hot Sauce!! That magical elixir featuring those and other peppers that can spice up your dish with a little tang or make it so hot it can create an actual high!  Trust me, I've studied this stuff, some hot peppers can actually release endorphins, and capsacin, the active component in chile peppers is reported to help in weight loss!  I actually grow some pretty potent peppers myself.  ( How's that for alliteration!)

 Did you know that the Florida Keys is Home base for a fantastic Hot Sauce Company??? 

Florida Keys Hot Sauce Company, operated by my friend Clay Crockett, and is a locally owned company that has a full line of delicious hot sauces that add flavor and heat to whatever you are serving.. I had some Mile 0 with Fish yesterday and WOW... FLAVOR and HEAT. That's where most sauces lose me they usually only bring one or the other, but mmm mmm, these are goooood.

Founded in 2010, their private product line is a result of over 3 years of product design, development, and testing. Keys “Conchs” are very particular to their products and lifestyles. Their private line of sauces and products depict the Flavor and Fun that the Florida Keys share with visitors and locals alike. In a bottle, they are proud to bring you the flavor of the Florida Keys.

The Florida Keys Hot Sauce Co.’s line of products is available both online and in various retail outlets throughout the Florida Keys. Feel free to order from their website or visit a variety of restaurants or stores mentioned on their site and pick up a bottle while walking “somewhere on US1”.

Visit FloridaKeysHotSauce.com today!

Work with an Agent who can Spice up your Real Estate!Put the experience and expertise of The Conchquistador to work for you! For more information on the outstanding real estate opportunities that exist in the Keys, call me at 305.439.7730 or email me at DropAnchor@TheRealEstateConch.com.

Ready to create your own no-hassle shopping cart of available Properties in the Florida Keys, with multiple search capability? Click here: ConchMLS.com.

ARGGGHHHH !!!! AVAST YE AND SHIVER ME TIMBERS!!! CALLING ALL PIRATES!! It's Time for Key Largo Pirate's Fest!!

ARGGGHHHH !!!! AVAST YE AND SHIVER ME TIMBERS!!!  CALLING ALL PIRATES!!

It's Time for Key Largo Pirate's Fest!!

One of my FAVORITE Key's events is on once again.  Time time to release your inner Jack Sparrow, Black Beard, and Anne Bonny.

My Personal Favorite, Black Ceasar, (a pirate who roamed these very Keys) is this year's Grand Pirate.

Schedule

ENTRY TO EVENTS IS FREE EXCEPT WHERE NOTED
Thursday October 20th
Captain Morgan Look Alike Pirate Plunder Party
6:30pm Snapper’s Restaurant, MM 94
Got a little Captain in ya? Shiver your timbers with local pirates & enter the Captain Morgan look-alike contest, lots of prizes. Captain Morgan $5 drink specials, live music and plundering.

Friday October 21st
Black Caesar’s Parade and Pirate Bash starts at 6:30 pm
Buccaneers, wenches, lads and lassies, unleash your inner pirate and join this year’s Pirates’ Fest Parade on Friday, Oct. 21st. Join Black Caesar, at the kick off at 5:00 PM at Coconuts House Restaurant. Participants can win in the following categories: Best Pirate or Wench, Best Pirate Couple, Motliest Crew/Group and best float or decorated vehicle. Follow the tradition of last year’s parade, as keys cruisers, pirate decorated motorbikes, sword swinging wenches and a motley crew of Pirates leave Coconuts at 6:30 PM and meander to US1 and head south to stage an invasion of the Pilot House on Seagate Blvd.Then it’s time to splice the mainbrace at the Pirate Bash with live music, dancing, grub and grog. Entry to the parade is free. All entries received by Thursday October 20th will receive a free souvenir event t-shirt, while supplies last.
 
Saturday October 22nd
Pirate-themed Brunch
8am - 12noon Key Largo Conch House, MM100

Black Caesar Returns to Key Largo – a swashbuckling fun filled day for the whole family
Noon - 11 pm, Sundowners & Jimmy Johnson’s Big Chill, MM 104
Black Caesar and his band of Pirates will be around all day to entertain with stories fun and interactive activities for the whole family. Shop at the Pirate Bazaar and Thieves Market. Pirate shows, black powder demonstrations, cannons, swordfights and pirate boat raft up on the Bay.

Black Caesar and his pirate band invade at sunset – Voted best historic re-enactment by Florida Magazine
Concert on the Bay
2pm – 10pm - Blackwater Sound
Continuous live music as bands perform on the water from the pirate ship Queen Anne’s Revenge II. The concert can be viewed from the water’s edge at Sundowners and the Big Chill or join other pirate boats on the water for a pirate raft-up.

Sunday, October 23rd
Underwater Treasure Hunt: 8am Capt. Slate’s Atlantis Dive Center
Call 305-451-3020
Pirate-themed Brunch
8am - 12noon Key Largo Conch House, MM 100
Black Caesar’s By-Land-or-Sea Booty Hunt
11am, Sundowners, MM104 Bayside
Travel to Ports of Call and collect your booty... Entry fee $15 includes souvenir T-Shirt and Continental Breakfast.
Click here to enter | Click for more info
Pirates’ Poker
By Land or by Sea Poker Run at noon, register at the Elks Club MM 92.6 Bayside; $15 entry includes souvenir T-Shirt, first hand and Continental Breakfast.
Click here for more info

Pirate Bazaar and Thieves Market continues noon till 5pm
Shop till you drop
Buccaneer Bash and Finale
4pm, Sundowners Beach, MM 104 Bayside
Adult and Kids Costume Contests: Best Buccaneer and Sauciest Wench, and Under 14 Likeliest Lad and Loveliest Lassie; Booty Hunt, Underwater Treasure Hunt and Pirates Poker awards. Live Music, Grub and Grog. $5 Captain Morgan Specials.
 
Put a Pirate on your side! Put the experience and expertise of The Conchquistador to work for you! For more information on the outstanding real estate opportunities that exist in the Keys, call me at 305.439.7730 or email me at DropAnchor@TheRealEstateConch.com.

Ready to create your own no-hassle shopping cart of available Properties in the Florida Keys, with multiple search capability? Click here: ConchMLS.com.

Attend the Save the Old Seven Mile Bridge Reception on Friday, October 21

The 7-Mile Bridge is THE Defining Landmark  of the Keys

Did you know the Old Seven Mile Bridge segment to Pidgen Key is listed on the National Register Of Historic Places? 

Learn more about the Old Seven Mile Bridge & what you can do to help save this important part of the Florida Keys. 

Attend the Save the Old Seven Mile Bridge Reception on Friday, October 21, 2011 from 5 to 7 p.m. at Porky's in Marathon. Come out & have some fun for a good cause

Work with an agent who used to Drive on The Old 7-Mile Bridge!  Put the experience and expertise of The Conchquistador to work for you! For more information on the outstanding real estate opportunities that exist in the Keys, call me at 305.439.7730 or email me at DropAnchor@TheRealEstateConch.com.

Sold in 2005 for $930,000 - Closed Today for $450,000! Super Waterfront Islamorada Location! The Conchquistador Deal of The Day 10.17.2011

112 Captains Court, Plantation Key, Islamorada

It's October, the winds begin to change direction, blowing more from the North, the tides pick up. The days gets shorter. The air is... crisper with the scent of salt. The water...is magnificent. Hues from a palate that only Nature could create. The Kingfish and Mackerel start rolling back in. The Climate is Sublime. It's Fall in The Keys, and there is nowhere else that I would rather be!

While folks up North are breaking out their cold weather attire, we are still sporting floral shirts and relishing the start of Stone Crab Season!

If this cold weather season is anything like last year's. I believe that we will have even more interest in owning property here in The Keys!  Which leads us to Today's Deal.  A Fantastic waterfront coup by the lucky Buyer. Located in Kahiki Harbor, the much sought after neighborhood in the North end of Plantation Key, this Short Sale ( a sale where the purchase price is less than what is owed on the property) was a tremendous deal indeed!

These are the type of deals you pack up your gear from Chicago, or New York, or Boston, or Philly, or.....and get yourself down here for!!!  No Tricks...only Treats!  God I love Fall in the Keys!!

112 Captains Court, Plantation Key, Islamorada

2 Bedrooms / 2 Bathrooms

List price: $450,000 /
Sold Price: $450,000
 Previous Sale Price 990,000 in 2005

Mile Marker: 90 Bayside

Description: Talk about LOCATION! Just off Tavernier Creek and only minutes from the bay or ocean. Home has 2 bedrooms with 2 baths,large master with walk-in closet, tile floors, high tongue and groove ceiling, screened balcony, wood decks, nice landscaping, ground level storage, brick paver driveway, deep water protected dock with davits. Located on a quiet street. SHORT SALE.Bank approved Amt
View Detailed Brochure with Photos

View Mapped Location

View Available Kahiki Harbor Homes

View Available Islamorada Waterfront Homes $300-500K



Put the experience and expertise of The Conchquistador to work for you! For more information on the outstanding real estate opportunities that exist in the Keys, call me at 305.439.7730 or email me at DropAnchor@TheRealEstateConch.com.

Ready to create your own no-hassle shopping cart of available Properties in the Florida Keys, with multiple search capability? Click here: ConchMLS.com.

I am always getting asked about the local real estate market and what is selling, so in an effort to keep you updated I am providing a monthly report that shows the sales activity in the Upper Keys.

I hope you find this information useful and interesting.

Work with an Agent who KNOWS the numbers!!Put the experience and expertise of The Conchquistador to work for you! For more information on the outstanding real estate opportunities that exist in the Keys, call me at 305.439.7730 or email me at DropAnchor@TheRealEstateConch.com.

Ready to create your own no-hassle shopping cart of available Properties in the Florida Keys, with multiple search capability? Click here: ConchMLS.com.

Submerge in a Coral Restoration Workshop.

Wow, what great way to have fun AND restore a bit of nature!

 

With so many local and visiting boaters, anglers, and divers, our reefs really take a beating, and they literally are the lifeblood of our community.

 

Key Largo / October 11 to October 13

 

Submerge in a Coral Restoration Workshop

 

In a joint effort with the Coral Restoration Foundation, divers can actively learn about preserving Florida Keys reefs, the stressors affecting corals and how the Florida Keys are leading the way to grow and transplant new corals to the reefs. Workshop is $456.50 per person and includes three nights' accommodations & tax at Amy Slate's Amoray Dive Resort, tanks, weights, classroom sessions and dive trips to work in the nursery and transplant corals on the reef.
Contact: 305-451-3595; 800-426-6729

Email: amoraydive@amoray.com

Put the experience and expertise of The Conchquistador to work for you! For more information on the outstanding real estate opportunities that exist in the Keys, call me at 305.439.7730 or email me at DropAnchor@TheRealEstateConch.com.

Ready to create your own no-hassle shopping cart of available Properties in the Florida Keys, with multiple search capability? Click here: ConchMLS.com.

It's Almost Time for The Best Butt in The Keys Contest!!! The Florida Keys

Hot, firm, succulent Butts make my mouth WATER!!! Sitting up nice and high.  Just the right amount of muscle...just the right amount of fat...mmm makes them, ohhhh so juicy!!!

You DO know I am talking about Pulled Pork ..DON"T YOU???

Low and slow, and TASTY!!!

A great competition for a great cause, The Best Butt in The Keys competition with proceeds benefiting The Good Health Clinic, Wednesday October 12.

Held at the little known Hideaway called The Sparrows Nest to the rear of Bud n Mary's Marina, Mile Marker 80.
Great Food, Prizes and raffle.

See the Flier Below...It's gonna be fun!!

Work with an Agent who knows his way around a good Butt!  Put the experience and expertise of The Conchquistador to work for you! For more information on the outstanding real estate opportunities that exist in the Keys, call me at 305.439.7730 or email me at DropAnchor@TheRealEstateConch.com.

Ready to create your own no-hassle shopping cart of available Properties in the Florida Keys, with multiple search capability? Click here: ConchMLS.com.

Stillwright Point is HOT!! Waterfront Home Just Closed $770,000!! The Conquistador Deal of The Day 10.5.2011

 

Stillwright Point In Key Largo

 1 North Drive Key Largo
 Wow! Stillwright Point is Hot! Stillwright is one of my favorite Key Largo Communities.  My colleagues Terry Canto and Kelly Wilson, had the listing on this home that was right across the canal from the previous Deal of the Day, and is the essence of Keys Living! The smart money is definitely in Stillwright Point!

1 North Drive, Key Largo

List Price: $799,000 / Sold Price: $770,000

Original Price $895,000

3 Bedrooms / 2.1 Baths

Mile Marker: 105

Description: CASUAL ELEGANCE! Beautiful new concrete house meticulously maintained. Featuring a beautiful & spacious kitchen, island w/granite, tiled floors throughout with top-of-the-line finishes. Vaulted/tray ceilings, impact resistant windows & wraparound balcony. Entertainment area by the water with Tiki Bar, built-in grill & hot tub. Privacy fence,deep water dock w/boat lift. Many extra's.

View Detailed Brochure with Photos and Mapped Location

Stillwright Point (originally Stellrecht Point) is a great community that is on a natural peninsula positioned perfectly in Key Largo on picturesque Blackwater Sound. 45 Minutes to Miami...But an entire World away.  It is a premiere community made up of sumptuous waterfront estates with breathtaking open-water views.

View Detailed Brichure with Photos and Mapped Location

View Available Stillwright Point Homes

View Key Largo Waterfront Homes $750K-1M

Put the experience and expertise of The Conchquistador to work for you! For more information on the outstanding real estate opportunities that exist in the Keys, call me at 305.439.7730 or email me at DropAnchor@TheRealEstateConch.com.

Ready to create your own no-hassle shopping cart of available Properties in the Florida Keys, with multiple search capability? Click here: ConchMLS.com.

The Conchquistador Deal of The Day 9.30.2011 - Was $795,000 Now Closed At $635,000!

Stillwright Point In Key Largo

8 Center Lane Key Largo
Stillwright Point (originally Stellrecht Point) is a great community that is on a natural peninsula positioned perfectly in Key Largo on picturesque Blackwater Sound. 45 Minutes to Miami...But an entire World away.  It is a premiere community made up of sumptuous waterfront estates with breathtaking open-water views.

8 Center Lane Key Largo
List Price: $729,000 / Sold Price: $635,000
3 Bedooms / 2 Bathrooms
Mile Marker 106

Description: BAYSIDE BEAUTY in desirable Stillwright Point. Immaculate canalfront; remodeled kitchen with granite counters, stainless steel appliances, solid maple cabinets, sit-up island & wine captain. 2 bedrooms on main level, bath with frameless shower & Jerusalem soapstone tile. Strand-woven bamboo floors, whitewashed tongue & groove pine ceilings & gas fireplace. Master w/spa tub, dual shower, dual sinks.

Kudos to our Broker, Joy Martin for working on both sides of the transaction!
  
View Detailed Brochure with Photos and Mapped Location

View Available Stillwright Point Properties

View Available Waterfront Key Largo Properties $500-$750K

Put the experience and expertise of The Conchquistador to work for you! For more information on the outstanding real estate opportunities that exist in the Keys, call me at 305.439.7730 or email me at DropAnchor@TheRealEstateConch.com.

Ready to create your own no-hassle shopping cart of available Properties in the Florida Keys, with multiple search capability? Click here: ConchMLS.com.

New Road to Florida Keys Dedicated - The 18 Mile Stretch Is Finally Complete!!!

Part of the Original 18-Mile Strech.
Then, One of America's Deadliest Roads

From late 1950's to the mid 70's, my Grandfather delivered Keg Beer for Budweiser to all the restaurants and bars from Key Largo to the 7-Mile Bridge, and drove a large beer delivery truck.  I can still remember his stories about how often his side mirrors would "kiss" other truck mirrors on the impossibly thin, 2-laned, dreaded, "18-Mile Stretch", that desolate, albeit, beautiful stretch of US1between Florida City, the last mainland outpost, and Key Largo as you traverse Jewfish Creek and Lake Surprise.

The New Jew Fish Creek Bridge

Probably one of the deadliest roads in America, the "18 Mile Stretch" as it is called, was a very scary ride at times, with most of the traffic accidents resulting from terrifyingly tragic, head on collisions.  You had to know how to drive the stretch, when to pass and when NOT to, a fact lost on many tourists, and other impatient motorists.  I remember driving it the very first day I got my license...a kind of right of passage. Many people I knew would not come down to the Keys strictly because of the 18-Mile Stretch!! And Card Sound Road, the other only Keys access route was too long and you had to go through some scary fish camps with tough old fishermen and hard core Bikers that hung out at Alabama Jacks, the local watering hole, where blood flowed as heavily as the whiskey did. (All that area is much much tamer now, but back in the day...)

Cement Median and Side Shoulder Make
For a Much Safer Drive!

Now, the beast has, for the most, part been tamed!! The Stretch now has a undergone a MAJOR renovation that lasted several years and resulted in a much, much safer drive, and has now officially been dedicated.  Gone is the thin single, two lane road, now replaced by a wide road with areas to pull over for emergencies and a bright aqua-colored cement median that runs the span of the stretch.  No more deadly head on collisions!!!  Gone as well, is the old draw bridge over Jew Fish Creek, replaced with a sky high, fixed bridge offering spectacular views of Blackwater and Barnes Sounds.

All Photos by Andy Newman/Florida Keys News Bureau

Now, some old time Conchs are not too fond of the new road, as they liked the fact that the old road scared some away and the new one makes it too easy to get here and therefore bringing more people that can spoil our slice of paradise.  I can understand that, but as for me, anything that makes for a safer and more fun experience here in the Keys gets my vote, though i must say that I am not too crazy about the new fences that run the length, but can understand that they are meant to keep our wildlife safer.

Below are some comments from  the Florida Keys and Key West Web Site:

"New Road to Florida Keys Dedicated

Officials marked the completion of a $330 million Florida Department of Transportation road project Wednesday that rebuilt an 18-mile section of U.S. 1 connecting the South Florida mainland with the Florida Keys. A dedication ceremony heralded benefits of a new and safer "18-mile Stretch.""

All in all, it was progress that was needed.  I wonder what my Grandfather would have thought??

Work with an Agent who has seen the Keys' Past and can help YOU be a part of their Future! Put the experience and expertise of The Conchquistador to work for you! For more information on the outstanding real estate opportunities that exist in the Keys, call me at 305.439.7730 or email me at DropAnchor@TheRealEstateConch.com.

Ready to create your own no-hassle shopping cart of available Properties in the Florida Keys, with multiple search capability? Click here: ConchMLS.com.

Testimonials...Humbling and Gratifying! Some Very Kind Words From A Recent Client!

Testimonials...THE ABSOLUTE Best form of advertising in my Opinion.  Of course as Real Estate Agents, we all enjoy our commission checks, but sometimes ... the written appreciation from a satisfied client is often, even more gratifying.  Here are some incredibly kind words from some recent clients:

"Hey Mykael,

Just wanted to write a quick note of thanks for your efforts in helping us transition from NJ. Moving a family of five 1,300 miles in less than 30 days seemed impossible.  However your assistance in providing keen insight into neighborhoods, schools, and youth sports on top of your market prowess really put us at ease.

The home we chose is exceeding our expectations and we are very happy.  Who knew you could spend just six hours searching for a home and come away with the perfect dwelling for your family.  I guess you just need the right Realtor.....

I can't say thank you enough for all of the extras you provided above the significant savings in the price negotiation.  By being our representative in Florida while we packed up NJ, we were able to get our children into school for the first day without a hitch.  You really knew what was most important to us.

We will definitely be calling you again whenever we or our friends need a Realtor....(or some fishing tips!)

Thanks,

The Urbans"

Jonathan and Adrienne Urban, Treasurer of World Fuel Services, a Fortune 500 Company

New Florida Residents and New Friends!

Wow! Am I humbled!!

"Having been a licensed Realtor in Texas for almost 10 years, as well as following the real estate market in the Keys for at least half of that, I felt very confident that I could navigate the path to purchasing our first Florida Keys home. Well, it didn’t take long for me to learn that I didn’t know nearly as much regarding Florida Keys real estate as I thought I did.

So, humbled (and at the direction of my wife) we decided to search for a quality Realtor to assist us in completing our home search. Were we ever so fortunate to find Mykael! We found Mykael to be very knowledgeable on the market. He’s a great listener who is very patient and who takes the time to understand your needs. He was never too busy to take a call or answer one of our zillion emails when we had a question regarding the process. He went above and beyond for us. Even after we closed on our home and all was said and done, he was still more than happy to go and check-in on the cleaning service we had hired so when we arrived a few days later from Texas we would have a nice clean home to walk in to.       

 
We love our new island home and are so excited to be Keys residents! Mykael is definitely top-notch in our eyes and we wouldn’t hesitate in recommending Mykael "The Real Estate Conch" Marinelli to any of our friends and family."

Terry & Tanya Hundley

Tavernier, FL.

Wonderful folks from Dallas who found me via Realtor.com and purchased their lovely home at 136 Coconut Row, Tavernier sight unseen! Happy to have them as satisfied Clients and New Friends!

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Put the experience and expertise of The Conchquistador to work for you!

For more information on the outstanding real estate opportunities that exist in the Keys, call me at 305.439.7730 or email me at DropAnchor@TheRealEstateConch.com.

Ready to create your own no-hassle shopping cart of available Properties in the Florida Keys, with multiple search capability? Click here: ConchMLS.com.

Christie’s International Real Estate Releases Its Inaugural “State of the International Luxury Real Estate Market” Report.

WOW ! This is REALLY Interesting!! Please follow the link for insightful information regarding the State of the International Luxury Real Estate Market!  Our firm American Caribbean Real Estate is the Exclusive Florida Keys Affiliate of Christie's International Real Estate.

Christie’s International Real Estate released its inaugural “State of the International Luxury Real Estate Market” report. The research paper compiles the results of a survey completed by affiliated brokerages in the network—all experts in the luxury market—enhanced with their supporting commentaries and insights.

“The resulting report is an intriguing snapshot of the current global prime real estate market as viewed by the world’s leading network of luxury real estate experts,” says Neil Palmer, Chief Executive Officer of Christie’s International Real Estate. 

The paper examines the prevailing mood of buyers and sellers, how market activity is trending worldwide, and how transactions in the upper levels of the market are completed. For instance, when it comes to buying, 87 percent of the network reported that cash is the preferred means of payment.  

The report further reveals that buyer optimism is slowly increasing while seller expectations in pricing are improving but remain somewhat unrealistic. More than 67 percent of the survey respondents reported an increase in buyer activity for the first eight months of 2011 when compared to the same period last year. The largest upticks were reported in metropolitan cities like London, Paris, Hong Kong, New York, and Beverly Hills.

Spanning more than 40 countries with a combined annual sales volume estimated at US$100 billion, the Christie’s International Real Estate network focuses exclusively on the world’s properties valued above US$1 million. Real estate brokers are invited to become Affiliates only after a rigorous approval process.
The report concludes with bulleted market reports from a selection of the geographies represented by the exclusive Affiliates of Christie’s International Real Estate.

Download the State of the International Luxury Market Report 

Put the experience and expertise of The Conchquistador to work for you! For more information on the outstanding real estate opportunities that exist in the Keys, call me at 305.439.7730 or email me at DropAnchor@TheRealEstateConch.com.

Ready to create your own no-hassle shopping cart of available Properties in the Florida Keys, with multiple search capability? Click here: ConchMLS.com.