Sunday, November 16, 2014

Welcome to The Florida Keys Real Estate Conchquistador!

What can I say? I just LOVE the Keys! From the incredible waterways to the funkiness of Key West and Fantasy Fest, the Keys are one of this Country’s true treasures. Some of my fondest and earliest precious memories involve dining at the Coral Grill, fishing off the catwalk on the Cardsound Bridge, running in the inaugural 7 mile bridge run, my high school graduation party at the Cheeca Lodge and lobstering off Indian Key (and yes we only kept the legal ones...lol).

Now as an Adult, I am privileged to be able to market and sell stunning waterfront properties in the area that I love most!

Within this Blog, I aim to share with you pertinent real estate info as well as off the wall and irreverent items of interest for both residents and wishful residents of this incredible island chain.

Please visit Property Search Tab for a comprehensive listing of available properties throughout the Keys. There you can view available properties, view photos, see maps and even schedule an appointment to view your next dreamhome.

Thank you for visiting and

Welcome to the Conch Republic!!!

Friday, November 14, 2014

Waterfront Islamorada Home Under $400,000? You Bet!! - Yes Virginia, there IS a Santa Claus, and he LOVES the Florida Keys!!!

Yes Virginia, there IS a Santa Claus, and he LOVES the Florida Keys!!! Though, for the Buyers of this property, he came a little early, wearing Tommy Bahama with Seahorses pulling his sleigh.

Single Family Waterfront Home...Check
CBS Construction... Check
Islamorada Location ...Check
Under $400,000 ... Triple Check!!!

It's not the prettiest and it's definitely not the biggest, but it IS a CBS,  Islamorada Waterfront home in the great neighborhood of Plantation Key Colony.

Recently sold by my friend Dian Fiddes of of RE/MAX Keys Properties, this home with a little polishing is the ideal weekender.

As properties values have continued to rise, the sub-$400K, waterfront home is ebbing like a full moon low tide.

Here are the details:

175 Azalea Street. Plantation Key

2 Bedrooms/ 1 Bath

List Price: $375,000 / Sale Price: $346,000

Mile Marker: 90 Bayside

Description: Calling All Anglers. here is your chance to be on waterfront in Islamorada at an affordable price 40Ft. canalfront. Concrete home with dockage & Boat ramp.

View Detailed Brochure Here

Looking for your own great prided diamond in the rough?? 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.

Friday, November 7, 2014

Looking For A Job In The Fabulous Florida Keys? How About This??

How Cool is this??
If your humble Conchquistador wasn't busy being ...well...your Conchquistador, then, this sounds like a super cool gig that I would certainly enjoy, and find challenging.
How about you??
Ready to ditch the cubicle and "Lumburgh and his 'Yeah.. about those TPS Reports'", cold Taco Bell burritos or limp McDonald's fries for days out on our pristine reefs doing something really productive??

This spar buoy is used to warn vessels that they are approaching a shallow reef
Then, Check this out from the Florida Keys Marine Sanctuary:

"Looking for a job? We have a position open on our Key Largo buoy team. This is a year round, full-time position with benefits. Apply by November 20 for position 508762 on-line through Florida International University at http://hr.fiu.edu/pshr/"



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.

Wednesday, October 15, 2014

It's October 15th ...Let's Get Stoned!!! Stone Crab Season Opens Today!

October 15th...one of my favorite days of the year.  Why? you ask?....Well it's time to get stoned....   No, no, no, put down your smokeless hitters and step away from the bong and turn down the Jack Johnson songs ....we're not talking 420, but Stone Crabs!!

October is my favorite time of year here in the Keys.  The obsessive heat has dulled its edge, and the Northern breezes start to glide in, making it, to me, one of the greatest places to be, especially when you are out on the water.

Turn up the Buffett, crack open a Key West Sunset Ale, light up a Partagas, and steer your craft through the turquoise and indigo hued waters to the bounty that lies within your traps.  Sometimes, I just like to take it slow and troll while I go from trap to trap, usually snagging a Mackerel or two...and ponder..yes dinner is gonna be good tonight.

The breeze picks up and the smell of the salt fills you with each breath, you look around and see land to your port and open water to your starboard and realize that God must have been stoned when he created the Keys....Nothing could be this beautiful and serene that was created straight.


All I can say is that if you have never experienced Fall in the Keys, you do not know what you are missing.   Keep your falling leaves, keep your chilly temperatures, and for all means keep your Snow!!!

So break out the melted butter, break out the remoulade, break out the mallets and break out a Lifestyle.  It's October 15th in the Keys and the BEST part of the Season has just begun!

Let me help you lead the Lifestyle that you have dreamed about.

Work with an Agent that will show you how to live the Lifestyle!  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.

Friday, October 3, 2014

By The Numbers. Florida Keys Real Estate is SMOKING! Check Out My FL Keys Real Estate Resource Report.

Like a Summer Day out on the Sandbar, with the Sun directly overhead, Florida Keys Real Estate is Red Hot.

Smoldering, a hot cauldron of Real Estate Stew.  Waterfront Single Family Homes, Condos, Townhomes, Mobiles, Commercial, it's cooking into a fine Bouillabaisse of rising property values.

As you will see from our report below, properties are a-movin', with significant gains in both the quantity of properties sold, and an exponential growth in the sales prices. Add to that a nice dip in the Days on Market, and you get a very nice picture of our current blistering Market.

We were also really proud to have several $2 Million + sales in our office last month alone.

So, come on down, grab an Adult Beverage, a slice of Key Lime Pie, and the Florida Keys Home of your Dreams!


Work with an Agent who can turn you onto the Best in Florida Key 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.

Wednesday, August 27, 2014

The Secret is Out! Come Out to The Banana Hut for the Conch-Tails Radio Show, Sponsored By Your Conchquistador!

OK, The Secret is coming out.

No, not the location of my Honey-Hole ( For the uninitiated, I swear that that is not a porn reference), but rather the location of one of my favorite go-to spots for music, great drinks, and fantastic fun.

The Banana Hut at Smuggler's Cove.

Yes, we all know about Smuggler's Cove, but how many of you know about the Banana Hut?  (Again, Not a porn reference)
The Banana Hut is just the coolest place to soak up Keys fun, And Now they have a Raw Bar!

Perched on Snake Creek across from Venetian Shores, right at the Bridge, it affords you the option to visit by Boat, my favorite way to get there, or by road. Usually, The Banana Hut is opened primarily on the Weekends.  But now, The Conchtails Radio Show, that I am a proud Sponsor of, will be broadcasting there on Wednesdays, from 6-7 PM!  How Cool it That???!!!

Come on down to join the fun, with Joey Naples, Captain Matt Bellinger of Bamboo Charters and the Crew where it's always "High Tide" (sorry, Inside Joke..those that get it..Know), or if you are stuck in the real world outside of the Keys, listen in WORLD-WIDE on Iheart Radio at Sun 103.

Work with an Agent who has insider tips to the Keys Lifestyle.  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.



Saturday, August 16, 2014

Everyone Loves a Clean Bottom!! Come On Out To "The Sand Bar Clean Up". Fun and Maybe Even Treasure!

The Holiday Isle Sandbar.
That bastion of good times and Florida Keys Fun.

Countless memories that many can't remember the next day have been created there.
They Idyllic spot to anchor up, soak up the Sun, and get down to the serious Keys business of...Relaxing

Our Sandbar is known World-WIde!! Hell, it's even inspired a locally crafted Beer!!! +Sand Bar Sunday", brewed by The Islamorada Beer Company.  And the folks at Islamorada Beer Company and my friend Captain Matt Bellinger of Bamboo Charters are organizing something Fun and Special, that's great for our Sandbar and for the environment as well.

It's the Sand Bar Clean Up!

Like a great nightclub that looks fantastic at night, and horrendously trashed the next morning when the house lights are up, so it can go with our Sandbar.  Yes, unfortunately some of the visitors do not steward the location as they should, leaving it messier then when they arrived. So, Captain Matt and the gang are organizing this fun community clean up, great for young and old alike

Starting at 9am on Saturday 8/16, bring your mask and snorkel and join the fun as we clean the bottom of beer bottles etc.

Funny thing  though, you may fine Buried Treasure!! Maybe not doubloons, but rather watches, rings, earrings, coins, and more.  I know several people who have Cashed-in on what they have found after a busy weekend at the Sand Bar. So if not for Altruistic reasons head out for...Capitalistic ones!

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.

Wednesday, August 13, 2014

Lowest Priced, Available 2-Bedroom Condo in the Upper Keys. I've Got It, and's It's Waiting For YOU!

Landings Of Largo
Hurry, Hurry, Hurry!! Get Your Condos Here!!
Beautiful Nice Condos, Great Amentites, Florida Keys Sunshine.  Lobster.
Step Right Up!!

OK, enough Carnival style hawking, let's talk seriously about a FANTASTIC Opportunity.

I have been privileged to list, what is currently the lowest priced, 2 bedroom condo or townhouse in the Upper Florida Keys.

Marina Entry
Located in the idyllic and gated Landings of Largo, this residences is perfectly situated to be a great weekender, vacation home, or even full time Keys Escape.

Landings of Largo offers super amenities and is excellently positioned Bayside in Key Largo, close to Tavernier Creek for Boaters looking to cross over to open water.

Now, to the details:




98222 Overseas Highway
Landings Of Largo

2 Bedrooms - 2 Bathrooms

List Price - $219,900

Description: Exceptional Opportunity for your own taste of the Florida Keys Lifestyle!
Sunset Deck
This spacious, Landings of Largo, two-bedroom condominium is ready for Keys living. Updated baths with custom cabinetry and granite countered vanities, delightful view overlooking the pool, accordion shutters, and utility room are just a few features that make this residence special. Boat storage and Dockage are available in the marina with its own boat ramp and custom fish cleaning station. Secure, gated Community with Clubhouse, two tennis courts, refreshing pool, and Sunset Pier. The perfect vacation getaway or the ideal spot to call home.

View Detailed Brochure with Photos and mapped location here.

Ready to find your own great Keys deal?? 
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.

Wednesday, July 30, 2014

Hide Your Honey Hole!! It's the 2014 Mini-Lobster Season! They're Out There and They Are BIG!

Tickle Stick...Check...Net ...Check...Gloves ...Check ....Secret GPS Lobster Spots (AKA Honeyholes) Check!
OK! It's time for Mini-Lobster Season!!!  Get The Butter!

Your Conchquistador With Tonight's Dinner!
For 2014 the Bugs are out and they Are Big!!

Yes it's that crazy two days in July here in The Keys where boat gas prices soar, and Johnny Law is just itching to cite violators who don't measure or exceed their catch.

Hoards of marine hunters motor down here boats in tow, like pilgrims to Mecca to hunt for our tasty crustations and catch a post dive buzz at the Tiki Bar.


Come and Get 'Em!!! Photo courtesy of Capt. Matt Bellinger of Bamboo Charters
For the uninitiated, Lobster Mini Season is always the last Wednesday and Thursday in July.  That gives recreational harvesters an edge on the commercial guys who can't start fishing until August 6th.

It's also a great weekend for real estate, as many people, especially mainlanders finally say, "I need a place down here!"  And that, my friends is when your Humble Conchquistador springs into action!  With all the great deals down here, there is something for everyone.

From Mobile and Manufactured homes to Oceanfront Estates, The Florida Keys offer you your own customized Island Oasis.

Everyone Is in Mini-Season Mode!
So come on down, know the rules, grab some bugs (local slang for Lobster), grab a beer, and then call me to grab a slice of paradise.

Oh yeah and since you read this far, I am going to share with you, my faithful reader, one of my favorite spots! Trust me this is a Major Gift, as Spots are super secret!!! But hey...I am a benevolent Conchquistador.
Try Hog Rocks off Key Largo GPS  N24 59.550 W80 27.440.  7-15 feet down under the rocks.

Ready to stop paying for a Hotel during Mini Season and have a place of your very own?? 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.


Thursday, July 24, 2014

The Times They Are A Changin' - And I'm Broken Hearted - Another Keys Landmark Fades to Memory. Good Bye Lighthouse.

Ch-Ch-Ch-Ch-Changes .... David Bowie sang that refrain so many years ago in 1971, and it was about that same time, when I was about 5 or 6 years old, that I became aware of what was to be one of the Florida Keys' most enduring Landmarks.
And now, as of this morning...it is gone.
Placed upon the mantle of Memory

The Lighthouse at the Whale Harbor Seafood Buffet was (Pardon the obvious and deliberate pun) a beacon for travelers and locals alike, for so so many years.

With its kitschy decor and never-ending portions, the Buffet and it's iconic Lighthouse were known the world over.

Back In the Day
To me, it  always used to symbolize the entry to the magical locale of Islamorada.  As a kid, I used to believe there was someone up there tending to the lights.

As you may know, the Whale Harbor Buffet suffered a catastrophic fire not too long ago. And though they razed the structure to be able to rebuild, there was an effort to preserve the historic Lighthouse.
But, alas, the ravages of time, and damage from the fire proved too much for it to bear, and the decision came from on high that it had to, regrettably, come down.
And Now...A Memory

Papa Joe's, the old Plantation Yacht Harbor, Coral Grill, the Polynesian Buffet in Key Largo, Bimini Row at Holiday Isle, the Quay, Italian Fisherman, Nike Missile Bases, Erik's Floating Restaurant.  Just some of the Old Keys landmarks that are no more, and now, we add the treasured Lighthouse.

Like everything, my Keys are changing, it's past fading like so many layers of paint in the bright Sun.  There is a new breed of ownership here in the Keys.  We have become a bit more accessible and convenient, than in the old days of the scary two lanes of the stretch, and water coming down from the mainland in a pipe. 

While I am saddened to see so much of our History gently laid to rest, I am excited about being part of the Keys' Future and the prospect of new custodians who cherish the Keys like I do.

People like Jon and Julie Landau who have so embraced out Islands with their love and generosity,  Artist extraordinaire, Pasta Pantaleo, whose magnificent visions on canvas so vividly capture the essence of our waters and wildlife, and the voice of Key's Fishing, Matt Bellinger, who daily educates and entertains with his fishing acumen and  caretaking of of fisheries.   These fine folks and many others are part of the New Breed of the Keys, and I look forward to the New History that they will create.

Until then, my mantle is FILLED with lovely, lovely memories.

"Time may change me.  But You can't change Time."

Make your own bit of History.  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.

Thursday, July 17, 2014

What's Happening with FL Keys Real Estate? It My FL Keys Real Estate Resource Report!


Just Another Day In Paradise!
The Fabulous Florida Keys.
Why would you want to be anywhere else?  
The Florida Keys in the summertime are a Paradise like no other.  
Soft, balmy breezes, usually out of the East, married to gorgeous sunsets, and multi-hued aqua and turquoise infused waters brimming with life, beckoning you to fish, dive, and snorkel.  There's no place else that you will rather be, once you savor a taste of the Keys. 

And that taste of tropical serenity is mighty alluring to buyers of properties here in our Island chain.

Take a look at our latest Real Estate Resource Report for July.

As you will see, business is brisk.  Prices have basically been at a stable plateau with a little fluctuation, with days on the market down dramatically.


The Bottom line is that we are still seeing an influx of local, domestic and international Buyers all yearning for a taste of our proverbial Key Lime Pie, but prices have not yet spiked up.
 
Are YOU ready to put Your feet in the Water and buy your own slice of Paradise?

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.

Wednesday, July 9, 2014

1 Mangrove Lane, Key Largo - Turnkey Waterfront Home- Just Closed $559,000 - The Conchquistador Deal of the Day 7/9/2014

OK Readers... Time to brush the dust off and get back to some serious hardcore blogging about what's hot in Florida Keys Real Estate.
Your Conchquistador has been tied up lately with a lot of great business, but happy to be once again working out my stubby fingers on the keyboard bringing you the latest and greatest.

To sum it up...The Florida Keys are on Fire!!! And no I don't mean flames but red hot real estate activity.
Check out an upcoming blog post where I will share with you our Florida Keys Real Estate Resource Report detailing recent sales activity.

In the meantime, lets talk about a really great deal that recently closed and was actually listed by our Broker, Joy Martin, who always does a great job for her Customers.

Finishes, Finishes, Finishes.  This home is ideal for those who wanted a turnkey home with close proximity to the Mainland. It's located in the very nice gated enclave of Mangrove Lane right off the calm waters of Blackwater Sound.

A super deal for a ready to go waterfront home!

1 Mangrove Lane, Key Largo 

3 Bedrooms / 2.1 Bathrooms
Waterfront
2296 sq. ft.
Mile Marker: 106
Sold Price: 559,000 - List Price: $559,000
Description: 
IN THE FABULOUS FLORIDA KEYS! - You will love the finishes on this 3 story spacious 3 bedroom home. Beautifully appointed kitchen and main open living & dining room with travertine flooring throughout. Second level has a large entertainment deck off the living room where you can bring the party outside. The third floor has 3 bedrooms & 2 baths and another deck area for enjoying the outside. The...
water frontage is over 85ft on the canal with an almost new dock for your watercraft. Easy, straight shot to the bay. Enjoy this modern & expansive Keys home. Great as a vacation home, but large enough for a primary residence.


View Detailed Brochure with Photos and Mapped Location Here

View Available Key Largo Waterfront Homes $500,000 -$750,000 here

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.

Monday, June 2, 2014

Florida Keys Profanity-Yep...It's That Time of Year!

Forget George Carlin's 7 dirty words. Forget the F, S, C, P, D, and just about any other A thru Z words....When it comes to June 1st in the Florida Keys, one word is MOST Profane!!!! Wash your mouth out with bad Zest Profane..and that is The H-Word....Hurricane.

Yep, It's THAT Time of Year Again.
Yes, like most of the Eastern states, The Florida Keys once again hold its collective breath as we start another dreaded Hurricane Season. Our little stretch of 118 miles of dust, gravel, and mangroves are prone to these suckers!

The Lovely, yet Somber,
Hurricane Memorial in Islamorada
All joking aside, Hurricanes have had an indelible effect on the Florida Keys. One visit to the lovely, yet somber Hurricane Memorial in Islamorada, quickly paints the image of the power and destructive capability these massive weather phenomena posses.

Who can deny the impact the 1935 Storm had. It virtually and literally collapsed the Overseas Railway. It fueled Hemingway's creative fires for several of his subsequent novels. Most people are not aware that Hemingway was quite an unsung hero of the 1935 storm, providing great assistance in relief efforts aboard his Boat Pilar.

So, as we break out our shutters and refresh our mooring plans and search for that perfect hurricane hole for our boats. We get ready in true Keys fashion: We throw on Jimmy Buffett's "Tryin' to Reason with Hurricane Season", Mix up a batch of Margaritas, and give the H-word...the F-word.

Ready to find YOUR port in the storm??? 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.

Tuesday, May 27, 2014

Discover Tarpon Point in Islamorada. Elegance, Sophistiation and Details.

Discover Tarpon Point!
Overlooking the serene and multi-hued waters of Islamorada, this private 12 residence enclave is spectacular in every way!
Click on the link for info and contact me today for more detail. 305.439.7730.
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.

Friday, May 16, 2014

Tow Boat US and/or Sea Tow Memberships... Don't Leave Port Without Them!!

It's a Big Sea out there.   Sometimes it's Benevolent, and Majestic, and simply Wonderful.  And Sometimes.... Sometimes,  it'll make you It's Bitch.

Been There
It's THOSE times that you need to be prepared.  BOATS break down.  It's part of the ... joys having a boat.  Again, BOATS break down.  And that is why I don't let any of my Clients and Friends, go on the water in their boats without a membership to either Tow Boat Us or Sea Tow.


These are basically the AAA of the sea, providing assistance and towing when needed.  From dead batteries, to running out of gas, to my @#$&%ing engine won't start and I'm 10 *&^ing miles off shore in 600 feet of water and I need to get home, bad situations.  These Guys and Gals are the Cavalry.

Done That
For a yearly membership fee, you buy peace of mind and a WHOLE lot of Savings.

Case in point...
I have a membership with Tow Boat US, not that Sea Tow is no better or worse, just my membership has always been with Tow Boat.  Well yesterday, before I was about to go out collecting my crab traps for the end of Stone Crab season, I realized that my membership had expired.  I immediately went at 8:15am to renew at my local West Marine.  I paid my $160+/- membership fee. At 11:15 AM I am off  Key Largo cruising at about 30 knots when my prop slips off my boat into the briny.  No prop=stuck!  So here it is just 3 hours later after I renewed and I am calling for a tow back to port!  I call on my VHF and soon one of their friendly captains was there to bring us in. It took two hours to get us back.

How much did he charge me ??? $0.   How much WOULD it have cost?? $485 !!  That 1 incident paid for itself.  That was yesterday.  I am certain that over the next 364 days I will be calling them again for assistance.  And while I will be frustrated at being stuck..I will have piece of mind, that I can get back and not have a several hundred $$ towing charge.

So, Get out on the Big Sea,  Know that It may want to and may even make you, It's Bitch.  But at least come prepared with an exit strategy in the form of a Sea Tow or Tow Boat Us Membership.  Because....BOATS break down!

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.

Wednesday, May 14, 2014

Captain Matt Bellinger - Keys Guide and Renaissance Man, Now a Bizarre Foods America Guide May 26!

You've got to hand it to my friend Captain Matt Bellinger of Bamboo Charters in Islamorada.

Besides being a fantastic Captain and Fishing Guide in Islamorada, who was just honored by The Conch Republic's Northernmost Territories as "Best Back Country Guide", Captain Matt owns and Operates a winning fleet of fishing boats under the Bamboo Charters moniker, and has been featured on the National Geographic TV Channel.

Add to this, he IS the Voice of Florida Keys  Fishing...literally.  With several live broadcasted reports daily on both Sun 103 FM and Thunder Country 100.3.  Matt gives insights to the hot catch of the day, and who is reeling in what. 

Now, Matt has a new venture that I am proud to Sponsor. "Soundtrack for the Sandbar", is a super cool radio show hosted by Captain Matt on Sun 103 FM locally and worldwide on Iheartradio at Sun103.  Saturdays and Sundays from 2-7PM, Captain Matt takes to the airwaves with great music, local insights, up to the minute fishing reports and wraps it in a great Keys Vibe.  The perfect Soundtrack whether you are here in the Keys or REALLLLLY wishing you were. Grab an Island Libation, put your feet in the water, tune in and ....Relax.  Or grab a beer, put your feet in a plastic Kiddie pool and wish realllly hard.

Andrew Zimmern of Bizarre Foods America and Capt. Matt
AS if all of those activities are not enough, Captain Matt will now be featured on an episode of one of my Favorite TV Shows, Bizarre Foods America.  Yes, That show with Andrew Zimmern, where he eats all kinds of weird stuff, but also showcases the region and lifestyle of the locales he visits.  Well, on May 26, he's gonna grab a taste of our Florida Keys!! And who will he be hanging with?? Yes, that Keys overachiever Captain Matt Bellinger.  They will be doing some great fishing and grilling of such things as Lionfish, Lookdowns, and Iguana!!  Tune in to the Travel Channel for all the fun.
Lookdowns as prepared by Andrew Zimmern


Yep, We have some really cool characters here in the Keys.  Pirates and Poets, Philosophers and Dreamers, and Captain Matt?? Well he's one of our Stars!

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.

Thursday, May 1, 2014

The Times, They Are A-Changin' - Maddoxes Sell Captain Pip's Marina and Hideaway.

The times, they are a-changin'.
I have always had a fond spot for Porkey's and Captain Pip's Marina in Marathon, one of the last bastions of old time Keyzness.
Both were owned for a considerable time by the same owners who has now divested both spots to new owners.
Lets' hope they keep that same vibe that made these places such a treat.
Here is an article from KeysInfo.Net with more info on the change in ownership:

"Maddoxes sell Captain Pip's Marina and Hideaway to Crawford

rmccarthy@keynoter.com April 30, 2014 

J ust fewer than four months after selling their Porky's Bayside Restaurant, longtime owners Johnny Maddox and Barbara Maddox are turning over the reins to the other half of their Old Town Marathon business.

Ernie Crawford stands in one of the rental boats in the marina's basin. Photo by Ryan McCarthy
Stuart resident Ernie Crawford is scheduled to close today and take over Thursday as the owner of Captain Pip's Marina and Hideaway around mile marker 47.5 bayside. The Maddoxes owned the restaurant and adjacent fishing, rental boat and lodging businesses for roughly 17 years.

"I saw a magazine article that Captain Pip's was for sale and I called and here I am," Crawford said.
Crawford said Captain Pip's is his first foray into the marina or hotel business, but he's a veteran business owner at just 45 years old.
 Crawford said he owned 25 Arrow Mart convenience stores and 16 Subway sandwich shops in upstate New York before selling them all seven years ago. He said he later bought a golf course in Perry, N.Y., and owned it for three years before moving to Stuart.
Crawford said he plans to upgrade engines on all 15 rental boats and upgrade the property's 15 rental units.
"I'm going to be painting all the buildings to make it more of a tropical setting and doing some remodeling inside," he said. "We're also bringing in kayak and paddleboard rentals and we're restructuring our room rates."
Rooms would be available without a boat rental, or with a rental at 50 percent off. "That's going to put our room rates much more competitive," Crawford said.
Crawford said Ellie Cote, Captain Pip's manager for 13 years, is staying with the company and that the business would remain open while repairs take place.
The only part of the operation Crawford did not purchase was the charter boat portion, which Johnny Maddox is retaining.
"I'm going to keep Captain Pip's charters, which is now going to be Johnny Maddox Charters. We'll be in conjunction with Ernie because the Capt. Pip's package, the whole genre of it all, revolves around fishing and lodging," he said.

Maddox said he and Barbara take pride in what they accomplished at Porky's and Captain Pip's.
"We're proud to say we were able to take it from what it was known in town back in the '90s as, Capt. Pip's rent-a-junk, up to a premier fishing and lodging, boat-rental business," he said. "We know [Crawford is] going to take it and make it even bigger and better than what we've done."

In January, the Maddoxes sold Porky's to longtime employees Sean Johnson and Magdalena Jedrzejewska. Terms of that deal and the latest one were disclosed".

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.

Thursday, March 20, 2014

The Island Smoke Shop in Key Largo Named South Florida's #1 Cigar Shop

The Island Smoke Shop, located in Key Largo, was just named the BEST Cigar Shop in all of South Florida by South Florida Television Station WPLG, Channel 10!
And no surprise, if you have ever been there, you know why.
An Amazingly Incredible selection, super helpful staff and just an overall cool vibe.
If you enjoy cigars, like I do, or are looking for a gift for someone who, does stop by!
Conchquistador recommended!

The Island Smoke Shop's Walk In Humidor.  Paradise for Cigar Lovers! I wank to bottle the aroma in there.

Saturday, April 12, they are throwing a party to celebrate.  Lots of great fun to be had.



The Island Smoke shop is located in the Pink Plaza, Bayside at Mile Marker 103, just South of Adams Cut.

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.

Friday, March 14, 2014

City Council Approves $77M for 7-Mile Bridge

The 7-Mile Bridge.
The stuff of legend.  An Engineering marvel.
Blood, Sweat, Tears, and Lives were all lost to mete out the ability to cross the multi-hued waters of Moser Channel
But what an AMAZING creation!
She's taken a beating, the Original has.  And now, the sensible powers that be, have earmarked funds for maintenance of this Local, National, and International Treasure.

Check out the Article published in KeysNews.com.

"City council approves $77M for 7-Mile bridge
Florida Keys local governments have begun to give their formal blessings to a funding plan to renovate the
Photo Courtesy of Keysnews.com
Old Seven Mile Bridge.
On Tuesday night, the Marathon City Council approved the roughly $77 million plan between itself, the Monroe County Commission and Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT). The agreement calls for 30 years worth of repairs and upgrades to the 100 year-old bridge that once carried Henry Flagler's Overseas Railroad, with FDOT paying for the lion's share of it.
Under the terms of the agreement, FDOT would maintain ownership of the bridge. FDOT would pay $57 million of the projected $77 million in repair and maintenance costs over the next 30 years. Monroe County would pay $14.2 million, and Marathon would pay $5.3 million to help cover the cost of repairs. The county would have to pay an additional $720,000 up front to repair the Pigeon Key ramp, according to the agreement.
The Marathon City Council voted unanimously in favor of the agreement.
"The enthusiasm was unbelievable," Mayor Dick Ramsay said.
The Monroe County Commission tentatively approved the funding plan in December. Commissioner Danny Kolhage was the only one on the dais to vote against funding the project. He said he would like to see the county's share of the funding go to bridges and roads that residents drive on daily.
Kolhage again plans to vote against the project, he said.
FDOT District 6 Superintendent Gus Pego is in full support of the funding plan. If the plan is approved by the County Commission, FDOT would start the design work this year and hopefully construction next year, Pego said.
"We have made this a priority for Monroe County," Pego said. "I am confident we will be able to find the money for it."

The commission meets at 9 a.m. Wednesday at the Marathon Government Center."
  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.

Sunday, March 9, 2014

Stop The Presses!!!! Here Comes My Florida Keys Real Estate Resource Update for February 2014!

Supply and Demand ...Supply and Demand.
Right now here in the Florida Keys...we are out of Whack with Supply and Demand.

Like itchy Meth Heads  not unlike those seen in Breaking Bad, there are Buyers here in the Florida Keys that are HARDCORE jonesing for some fresh new Real Estate offerings.

They are Hungry.  I'm about to start walking around in a Trench Coat with brochures stapled to the interior lining, hustling Buyers at places like Holiday Isle, (Yes I Called It Holiday Isle!!! PCI?? Hmmm that's for another post),  going pssst, "Hey I got some premium Canal Front for ya.... How about a hit of some Buccaneer Point 3/2 or a dose of Venetian Shores wide water??"

The thing is we NEED more inventory, although the numbers might skew what I saying, in the trenches, Buyers are having a hard time finding what they are looking for.  The quality listings are selling fast, but there are also a good deal of properties that are OVERPRICED.  And they are overpriced because they are trying to jump on the bandwagon of the sales prices going UP, as evidenced by the jumps seen in the report below.  But these properties are outside the realistic numbers Buyers are willing to pay, and therefore we have a glut of listings "sitting there" and a harsh absence of truly sellable, market conscious properties for sale.

And Thus we have the tweeks roaming the streets and High Seas.

An interesting tidbit as well is that the List Price to Sale Price ratio has stayed constant at just under 8%, a question that I am often asked.

 

Call me for more info and especially to get YOUR home on the Market.

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.

Sunday, March 2, 2014

Starting Tomorrow, The Pirates Take Back The Waves ...Air Waves That Is.

I cannot tell you how jazzed I am about this!

Our main local radio station here in the Upper Florida Keys, is changing it's format...a bit.
Good Bye Corporate Homoginized, Stale Milque-Toast, Clear Channel, and Hello Florida Keys centric, grab a Conchtail, it's 5 O'Clock Here, here's what's going on, and the trop-music you (and our beloved Tourists) want to hear, Local programming!!

Starting tomorrow, the Pirates take back the waves ...  air waves that is.

Sun 103.1 FM has been purchase by a group that is committed to local programming and locally preferred music.

As a sponsor of two of the stations long running talk shows, I and many others have been pushing for this type of change.  Including playing more trop-rock and Key'z tunes,  YES that means MORE Jimmy Buffett!!! Butch up!!

Ok, yes, some of are locals are fed up with Buffett et al and trop-reggea tunes.  BUT!!! The guy and his family escaping from Cleavland or Chicago, or Pittsburgh, WANTS to tune on the radio and hear THAT!! when their cruisin' in the Keys.  And since their tourist $$$ keep our property taxes low, may I suggest Son of A Son of a Sailor??

No more stale AEROSMITH!! and I like Aerosmith, hell I Sing Aerosmith, But we are the Keys...Let's Sound like the Keys.

Maybe I am a bit hyper about this, but you must know that when I was a Kid in Miami, I used to listen in at night to the then local station, WXOS and revel in the Keys-z music they would play and even get off on the local commercials BECAUSE it gave such a great TASTE of the Keys.  That...Essence was there.  And I can tell you many of my Customers who are out of the area seek the very same thing.
That is why they revel in Captain Matt's Fishing reports.

To those who do not embrace the change, may I suggest an iPod.

Here is what Local Radio personality, my friend , and architect of the transition, Joey Naples had to say:

"Big changes start tomorrow morning! SUN FM is now owned by Florida Keys Media.....No more Clear Channel! This is going to be incredible for all of us! We will be live and local! We will be covering our local High School sports live! As always, we will be playing all your favorite classic rock songs! The line up goes like this......K.C. Stuart in the morning....6 am till 10....he'll not only be rocking it out for ya, but he'll be bringing you all the info you need to know to start your day in paradise! Then at 10 am it's the King of Cool (yours truly!) for Joey in the MidDay! Fun, Classic Rock, weather, fishing, diving.....you name it!
Then at 2 pm it's Bill Hoebee for the Hoebee in the Afternoon Experiment! the funniest guy on the radio! So please join us tomorrow morning starting at 6am......This is going to be fun! .......one more thing...we are going to be so local that if you lose your dog, call me and I will put it on the air! Love you guys!"


How's THAT for Local programming!!
 
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.

Very Honored To Recieve My Latest Testimonial From Another Happy Customer!

The greatest satisfaction that I derive from my Career as a Real Estate Agent, is knowing that my Customers where enthusiastic about the level of Service that I was able to provide to them.

The Sellers of a very recent sale at Buttonwood Bay, Unit D1, were very kind to send me a testimonial that I am honored to share with you..


"Mykael is simply the best.  Our Key Largo property had been listed with another realtor for a year and a half, resulting only in insultingly low offers that the realtor nevertheless encouraged us to take.  We changed to Mykael, got a very good contract within 19 days, and closed within a couple of months.  I believe that Mykael's intensive marketing efforts and vast web of professional contacts exposed our property to many more potential buyers than had previously seen it and facilitated this very quick, successful transaction. Because we do not live in Key Largo, Mykael handled every on-site detail, from helping us get tile repaired to ensuring that our place was clean and showed well, to managing the inspections.  Selling our wonderful Key Largo property was difficult, but Mykael's professionalism, energy, and great attitude made it as painless as possible.  Thank you Mykael!"

Janet Humphreys
 
I cannot begin to tell you how humbled I am to receive such kind words from some really super Customers.

Please visit my Testimonial Page to see a few more from other Customers who have benefited
from my many years of Experience, Expertise, and Personal service.

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.