Moving to Cape Coral FL

Thinking of moving to Cape Coral, Florida?

Often referred to as “the Cape” by area locals this waterfront paradise has a magnetic pull that draws both individuals and families looking for an exceptional relocation destination.

So, what sets Cape Coral apart, making it an enticing prospect for your next home?

Let’s talk about all the things that make moving to Cape Coral FL a win, and a couple of fun facts that could actually be deal breakers.

The Benefits of Moving to Cape Coral

Moving to Cape Coral – Paradise Found

As a huge fan of Cape Coral, Florida, a former city employee and a REALTOR® who’s personally assisted multiple successful relocations, let’s take a look at the list I’ve compiled.
Even if you’re a seasonal resident, I bet you haven’t thought of some of the perks included on my list!
Let’s compare notes:

That Hometown Feel: You know that feeling you get when you’re in the middle of a welcoming, thriving community?
Whenever I think of a welcoming, hometown feel, I think of Saturday morning farmers markets, coffee shops, chatting with my neighbors, and making new friends at community events.
Buying a home in Cape Coral will provide all of the above, in a big way! From the weekly Surfside Farmer’s Market to the local bakeries, specialty shops and eateries, there’s always somewhere fun to explore. Local events provide opportunities to meet new residents and network with area businesses.
Hometown vibe? Welcoming community?
10/10!

Moving to Cape Coral – A Fisherman’s Dream Location

With miles of canals, many that lead directly to gulf waters, there are so many perks for Cape Coral residents who are interested in fishing. Here are some of the favorite fishing hot spots around the islands of SW Florida, no charge:

SWFL Fishing Hotspots

Stump Pass
Gasparilla Pass
Boca Grande Pass
Captiva Pass
Redfish Pass
Matanzas Pass
Big Carlos Pass
New Pass
Wiggins Pass

That’s a lot of fishing excursion options, and it doesn’t even include the reef locations, like Fish Haven Reef and Edison Reef.
I invite you to do a little research on fishing life in Cape Coral. Even if you’ve never held a fishing pole in your hand in your life, SWFL is the perfect place to learn!

With all of these prime fishing areas to explore, let’s talk about the fact that it’s still pretty easy to find an available canal home in Cape Coral, FL. In fact, making the decision between waterfront property and non-waterfront is one of the main discussions I have with many of my buyers.

Moving to Cape Coral FL can be more than just relocating to a warmer climate and cleaner air quality. If fishing is in your future, imagine how convenient it would be to “walk out back” to your boat dock, boat, and fishing supplies instead of having to load up the family vehicle and drive to the marina!

Below are some available waterfront homes in Cape Coral, Florida. Take a look and give me a call with any questions you might have.
*Note: Not all canal homes lead to open waters. It’s important to work with an experienced REALTOR®.

The Beautiful Outdoors

I don’t know about you, but it’s hard for me to stay indoors living in SWFL. If you’re thinking of moving to Cape Coral and are wondering what types of outdoor activities might be waiting for you to discover, I’ve got a list!

Outdoor Activities in Cape Coral, FL:

Boating: With its extensive canal system and access to the Gulf of Mexico, Cape Coral is a boater’s paradise. You can rent a boat or bring your own to explore the waterways.
Fishing: Cape Coral offers excellent opportunities for both freshwater and saltwater fishing. You can fish from the shore, docks, or take a fishing charter.
Kayaking and Canoeing: Paddle through the scenic waterways, including canals, rivers, and nearby estuaries, to observe wildlife and enjoy the natural beauty.
Golf: Cape Coral has several golf courses and clubs, making it a great destination for golf enthusiasts.
Cycling: Explore the city on two wheels by biking along the numerous trails and bike-friendly streets.
Hiking: Discover the natural beauty of the area by hiking in local parks and preserves.
Birdwatching: Cape Coral is home to a variety of bird species, making it a fantastic spot for birdwatching.
Picnicking: Many parks in Cape Coral provide picnic areas where you can enjoy meals outdoors with family and friends.
Beachcombing: Visit nearby beaches like Sanibel Island and Fort Myers Beach for beachcombing, shelling, and swimming.
Tennis: Play a game of tennis at one of the city’s tennis courts and facilities.
Water Sports: Engage in water sports such as jet skiing, paddleboarding, and windsurfing.
Wildlife Tours: Take eco-tours to observe manatees, dolphins, and other wildlife native to the area.
Camping: Explore nearby campgrounds and enjoy a night under the stars in the beautiful Florida outdoors.
Sunset Cruises: Experience breathtaking sunsets over the Gulf of Mexico by booking a sunset cruise.
Basketball: Enjoy a game of basketball at local courts and parks.
Volleyball: Join a beach volleyball game at designated beach courts.
Fitness Trails: Stay active by utilizing the fitness trails in various parks.
Geocaching: Embark on a treasure-hunting adventure through geocaching in the area.
Outdoor Yoga: Join outdoor yoga classes held in parks and natural settings.
Community Events: Participate in community events, festivals, and outdoor concerts held throughout the year.

Cape Coral’s warm climate and diverse natural landscapes provide a wide range of outdoor activities for residents and visitors to enjoy year-round.

And just for fun, here’s some of my favorite walking trails. If you’re moving to Cape Coral and looking for an early morning reset, these are highly recommended!

Best Walking Trails in Cape Coral, FL:

Four Mile Cove Ecological Preserve: This preserve features a well-maintained boardwalk that winds through the mangroves, providing stunning views of the Caloosahatchee River. It’s a great spot for birdwatching and observing local wildlife.
Rotary Park Environmental Center: Rotary Park offers a variety of trails amidst lush vegetation, a butterfly house, and a playground. It’s an ideal location for both nature enthusiasts and families looking for an outdoor adventure.
Glover Bight Trail: Glover Bight offers a serene trail alongside the Coralwood Canal, named after the manatees that frequent the area. It’s a tranquil spot for leisurely walks and birdwatching.
Yellow Fever Creek Preserve: This preserve boasts a network of trails that wind through pine flatwoods and wetlands. It’s a favorite among hikers and birdwatchers, offering a chance to explore Florida’s diverse ecosystems.
Jaycee Park: Located along the Caloosahatchee River, Jaycee Park features a picturesque trail with waterfront views, picnic areas, and a playground. It’s a popular destination for scenic walks and relaxation by the river.

These walking trails are available to the general public and are part of our local parks and natural preserves. In addition to these outdoor spaces, many of the communities in Cape Coral have private trails and nature areas for residents to enjoy.

If you’re thinking of moving to Cape Coral, it’s important to realize the multitude of outdoor, health related activities you’ll be able to enjoy year-round!
As a lifelong resident, I have to think about just how refreshing it is, especially for anyone coming from a metropolitan area with plenty of tall buildings and minimal green space.

Cape Coral is truly paradise for outdoor enthusiasts!

Moving to Cape Coral: Perks for Small Business Owners

Ok, it’s not ALL about recreation, right? Some of us get excited about business opportunities too, myself included.
Is Cape Coral a healthy place for new businesses?
(The correct answer is yes!)

Cape Coral, Florida is home to a variety of diverse communities. With miles of canals and gulf access waterways, there is a vibrant boating community, strong tourism, multiple golfing communities, and of course, a thriving small business sector!

Influences from across the globe can be seen (& tasted!) in area restaurants and businesses, and regularly scheduled community events bring additional traffic to help new businesses flourish.

Below are some specific benefits of Cape Coral, Florida’s business environment:

No State Income Tax: One of the most notable benefits of business ownership in the state of Florida is its absence of state income tax. This financial advantage makes Florida an attractive destination for workers and business owners alike.

Business-Friendly Environment: Florida fosters a business friendly climate, with streamlined and efficient processes for establishing and operating a business, including simplified licensing and permitting.

Strategic Location: Florida’s strategic location is a key asset, providing access to both domestic and international markets. This strategic advantage is particularly beneficial for industries like trade, logistics, and tourism, which thrive on connectivity.

Robust Infrastructure: Florida boasts a well-developed infrastructure, encompassing ports, highways, and airports. These assets facilitate the seamless movement of goods and people, enhancing business efficiency.

With all these perks together, I would rate Cape Coral, FL as a 10/10 for business owner opportunities and community support.

Talent Pool: Florida’s diverse and growing population contributes to a skilled and adaptable workforce across various sectors. Whether your business operates in technology, healthcare, hospitality, or finance, you’ll find a talented pool of professionals to support your endeavors.

Tourism and Hospitality: Southwest Florida’s consistent tourism industry ensures a steady influx of visitors. This not only boosts the hospitality sector but also provides opportunities in entertainment and related businesses to thrive.

Moving to Cape Coral FL, as a business owner, can be a smart decision with significant benefits.
For more specific information on market sectors and projected economic growth, see the Cape Coral Office of Economic & Business Development.

The Cons of Moving to Cape Coral

Even our SWFL paradise has a few “not-so-high” points.
You know, things like critters and crazy weather.

We polled over 1,000 Cape Coral Florida residents, and here’s the top 20 things they wish they would have known (or thought about) before moving to Cape Coral.

Humidity & Health – For the average person, our tropical climate and gorgeous sunshine can hold wonderful health benefits. And believe it or not, we do have “sweater weather” for a week or two in SWFL when it’s “freezing out” according to the locals. But, for the most part, it’s good ol’ subtropic weather, which means…it’s humid.

You know, like the rainforest.

And some folks just don’t agree with a tropical paradise. Especially susceptible to humidity are individuals prone to dehydration, either through a medical condition, a side effect of medication, or a lack of proper fluid intake. Individuals with certain skin problems can have a difficult time adjusting to a more humid climate as well.

The Critters – The thought of a real life wildlife encounter can definitely raise some concerns for anyone thinking about moving to Cape Coral, FL.

However, it’s important to note that while wildlife encounters can occur, they are relatively rare and can be managed with awareness and caution.

As a new, potential resident moving to Cape Coral, you can ease concerns by:

Becoming familiar with local wildlife through local resources and community programs.
Being informed about preventive measures, such as proper disposal of food waste and adhering to wildlife safety guidelines.
Practicing wildlife safety by installing appropriate fencing, especially in areas that meet a preserve or protected area.

The Weather – Hurricanes and tropical storms are not to be taken lightly. However, it’s crucial to recognize that while hurricanes are a reality in the region, they are not an everyday occurrence.

New residents can alleviate their apprehension by becoming well-versed in hurricane preparedness and having an evacuation plan in place. Becoming familiar with evacuation routes, creating emergency supply kits, and staying informed about weather forecasts can empower individuals to proactively respond to potential storms.

Where’s My Basement? – Ok, for this one, I have a word of advice when you’re packing up that moving van. Here’s my word:
“You probably have too much stuff.”
It’s funny how nice and organized all your storage bins can be when you have an entire basement, which is basically the entire square footage of your house.
If you’re thinking of moving to Cape Coral, keep in mind that basements aren’t a thing here. Downsizing can be a pain but it will be worth it in the long run if you don’t have to lug everything to Florida just to part with it!
Is this a pro or a con? It just depends on how you look at it.
Downsizing can be freeing or emotionally taxing depending on the person and the situation.

Water Assessments – If you’re not familiar with the assessments in Cape Coral, here’s a quick breakdown.

Cape Coral was founded in 1957, as a developing rural community. The infrastructure to provide city water to an entire 120 square mile area just wasn’t there. In order to continue to grow (as the city rapidly has been) and offer expansion of utilities, a special assessment fee to fund its forward progress, providing drinking water, sewer and irrigation was put in place. And although city water and sewer isn’t available in all areas of the Cape yet…it’s coming!
Once the services are available, hookup to water and sewer lines is mandated by the city for all developed properties.

Ok, but what does that mean for you, the potential home buyer?

Bottom line, there are three basic scenarios when it comes to assessments when moving to Cape Coral.

Moving to Cape Coral – Water Assessments

Assessments Haven’t Come Through Yet:
If assessments for water and sewer services have not been imposed on the property yet, the property may be on well water and septic. When assessments are eventually levied, property owners typically have the option to pay them in full upfront or finance them over an extended period. If you choose to finance the assessments, the amount may be included in your property tax bill over a long-term repayment period.
Assessments Have Come Through and Are Unpaid:
If assessments for water and sewer services have already been imposed on the property, but the seller has not paid them off entirely, you may be responsible for taking over the outstanding assessment debt when purchasing the home.
You should review the property records and financial details during the purchase process to determine the exact amount of unpaid assessments and the terms for repayment.
Water Assessments Are In and Paid (Best Scenario):
In the best-case scenario, all water assessments have been imposed and fully paid by the current property owner. In this case, you would not have any outstanding assessment debt to assume when purchasing the home. These listings are often clearly marked in the SWFL MLS search description details with the phrase “assessments in and paid.”

These scenarios are intended to provide clarity on the potential situations you may encounter regarding water assessments when moving to Cape Coral, Florida. The specific circumstances can vary from one property to another, so it’s essential to conduct thorough due diligence and consult with an experienced REALTOR® during the home purchase process to fully understand your financial obligations and options.

Moving to Cape Coral, Florida

If you’ve gone through this extensive pros and cons list and still feel like Cape Coral, Florida is the right place for you, check out the curated list of available 3/2 (or higher) residential homes in the Cape.
Have question? Give me a call today and let’s talk about your relocation options!