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Florida Home for Sale

If you’re thinking about relocating to beautiful SW Florida, you’ve probably been searching for REAL information about the pros and cons.
You know, besides talking about the traffic during tourist season, what are the true dangers and things to really consider before making the decision to relocate.

As a Lee County, Florida resident who was born and raised right here in SW Florida, you might think I have a biased opinion (and I might 😉) but I’ve been around Florida real estate long enough to hear everyone’s praise and complaints! When someone relocates to Florida from out of state, especially if they haven’t spent a lot of time here, there are definitely some things to consider…some things that a prospective new Florida resident may see as deal breakers, even though for me they are just part of my every day life!

Ready for my pros and cons list?

Pros of Living in SWFL

Diversity in Housing Styles - Florida Home for Sale

If you’re on the hunt for the ideal Florida home for sale and you’re looking at SWFL, you won’t be disappointed.

The SWFL real estate landscape includes such a wide array of home styles, with an abundance of custom built homes as well as historical homes that can really elevate your overall quality of life.

Depending on the level of upkeep you want in your life, SWFL condos can provide amenities and recreation, all maintenance free. Many of the subdivisions and communities include lawn care as part of their monthly dues, so even if you are looking at a single family residence, it could be virtually maintenance free.

Entrepreneurial Goldmine - Florida Home for Sale

Florida has zero state tax and SWFL is extremely friendly and welcoming to small businesses.
In fact, areas like Sanibel and Captiva Islands cater to the smaller, more unique businesses, as they allow very few chain businesses or restaurants on the island.
Many tourist heavy areas make direct efforts to preserve the charm of their location by doing the same.
This makes more room for small businesses to thrive!

SWFL can really be considered an entrepreneurial goldmine. If you purchase property zoned for mixed use or Ag, you’ll have so many doors and possible paths to follow (even eco-tourism).

Florida doesn’t really have an off season for service industries. Up north, when it snows and things ice over, a lot of progress comes to a halt and many outdoor events and activities have to wait for spring.
The beauty of living in SWFL is that you can virtually be open for business 365 days for most industries. I consider that a huge plus for any current or aspiring business owners thinking of relocating to SW Florida.

The Major Weather Complaint is Actually A Positive Feature!

“It’s so humid in August & September!”

I know some might see the humidity of our tropical climate as being a bit much to handle at first. I promise you’ll get used to it! Plus, that’s what climate controlled air is for.

Also, for many, the humidity in SWFL can help keep your skin hydrated and prevent dryness, which can actually be beneficial for people with dry or sensitive skin.

Higher humidity levels can also help your skin retain moisture and appear more supple and youthful. SWFL is anti-aging….basically. 🤣

Cons of Living in SWFL

The Unusual Critters

As a SWFL resident my whole life, it’s not a big deal for me to see an alligator in the pond across the street or to know how to deal with a fire ant infestation on a piece of property.
There are quite a few unusual creatures to get used to in SWFL, all the way from “Love Bug Season” where a harmless pair of floating insects can cover the front grill of your vehicle to the occasional wandering bobcat or wolf that might be spotted in your neighborhood.

I recommend these useful websites that identify all of the insects, snakes and animals you might expect to encounter in SWFL.

Fort Myers & Naples Wildlife Field Guide

Florida Amphibians & Reptiles

University of Florida Insect Identification

Almost everyone I know has a fire-ant story. None of them are good. Learn to recognize these tiny towers of terror and stay away from them. If you happen to have fire ant hills on your own property, they are pretty easy to control.

Public Transportation

Southwest Florida has limited public transportation options, which can make it difficult for those without a car to get around.

If you are thinking of relocating to the downtown Fort Myers area, public transportation through LeeTran is available. Some of the more widely spread out cities, like Cape Coral, Florida, do have public transportation, but the closest stop is over a mile away. The downtown Fort Myers area has two forms of public transportation, one of which is free. The downtown trolley makes 20 minute long repeat runs around the downtown area, so if you work and live in this thriving pocket of the town, transportation won’t be an issue.

What Month Are We In?

Without clear seasonal markers and temperature changes, falling leaves and snow, how is anyone supposed to know what month we are in?

The truth is, there will always be a bright side as well as a negative light we can view our lives through.

The thought of living in a place where I can ALWAYS stick my toes in the sand, walk barefoot any time I want and wear shorts on Christmas Day sounds like paradise to me!

If you agree and are ready to find your perfect Florida Home for Sale, give me a call today.