5 Benefits of Buying Condos Early in the Development Process

The age-old saying “timing is everything” holds significant weight in the world of luxury real estate. For decades, savvy high-rise buyers have understood the practical benefits of acquiring a luxury condominium in the early stages of development. From gaining access to exclusive pre-construction pricing to having the first pick of residences and views, homeowners enjoy a plethora of benefits that may be scarce in the later stages of development. In Southwest Florida, a new opportunity has emerged with ample advantages for prospective homeowners. With construction set to commence this summer, see why future homeowners are proactively securing their spot within The Island at West Bay Club.

1. Private Golf & Beach Club Ready to Be Enjoyed

Prospective residents of The Island can embrace a world-class lifestyle without waiting for construction to finish. As West Bay Club’s ninth and final neighborhood, future homeowners have a unique chance to access amenities and connect with neighbors during the construction of their homes. The newly reimagined private Beach Club grants direct access to the Gulf of Mexico’s soft sands, with an oceanfront dining venue, an expanded outdoor deck, and personalized beach service. Golf Members enjoy a championship golf course designed by Pete & P.B. Dye, along with reciprocal benefits to over 200 courses. Several golf memberships with full privileges are available during The Island’s construction.

2. A Track Record of Success

From the first shovel hitting the ground to move-in day, typical condominium construction projects take nearly two years to complete. Developers often entice early market buy-in with lower pricing and incentives during the initial construction phase. At each construction milestone, price increases are triggered, progressively adding value for the homebuyer. Kolter Urban, the developer behind The Island at West Bay, has garnered a loyal following throughout the Southeast for their successful delivery of over 5,500 residences. Led by CEO Bobby Julien, the firm’s adept grasp of market dynamics and strategic building locations has consistently yielded significant appreciation for buyers who make timely decisions. Early buyers are able to secure a beautiful condo at lower prices, bypass the hassle of managing real estate during construction, and enjoy rewards driven by heightened demand and increased property values upon completion. The data shown demonstrates the significant gains achieved at prior Kolter Urban properties.

3. Personalize Your Residence to Your Style

Early buy-in is advantageous for those desiring a residence tailored to their preferences rather than settling for an “as is” home. Whether seeking corner residences or specific views, the likelihood of finding the perfect floorplan is higher in the early stages. Purchasing early grants homebuyers the chance to choose interiors reflecting their style, including flooring, cabinetry, and plumbing fixtures. This crucial decision-making occurs in the initial construction phases, where interior finishes and materials are pre-ordered to meet delivery timelines. Delaying the purchase decision diminishes the ability to customize interior finishes, as preselected options and limited choices in secondary locations become the norm.

4. Florida’s Beneficial Tax Environment

In Florida, a business-friendly tax environment helps reduce residents’ overall tax liability. As one of only nine states without a state income tax, Florida exempts social security income, pension income, and earnings from an IRA or 401(k) from state taxes. The state’s “Save Our Homes” law limits annual increases in the assessed value of homesteads to 3%, shielding homeowners from sudden spikes in property taxes. Additionally, Florida does not impose a state tax on capital gains, defined as the difference between the initial purchase price and subsequent sales price of a home.

5. Tour the Community In-Person

While many condominiums can only provide renderings of future plans, The Island offers a unique opportunity for prospective condo owners to physically explore the community firsthand. With an operational private club, future residents can immerse themselves in the vibrant West Bay lifestyle. West Bay Club is one of the most amenity-rich communities in Southwest Florida, offering something for every interest. The Bay House features a state-of-the-art fitness center, resort-style pool, and al fresco dining. The Sports Complex, nicknamed “The Net,” is a great place for pick-up games with West Bay Members, offering eight tennis courts and six pickleball courts. River Park borders the Estero River, with a boat launch perfect for a boating, kayaking, or paddleboarding adventure. Members also enjoy on-site boat and RV storage, two dog parks, bocce ball courts, and a wide range of social events.

A Luxury Condominium with 100% Corner Residences

Kolter Urban is looking forward to extending its legacy to Southwest Florida with The Island at West Bay. Each of the 86 luxurious residences within the 24-story tower lives like a single-family home in the sky, with three to four bedrooms and 3,715 to 4,050 square feet of living space. Floor-to-ceiling walls of glass provide panoramic views of Estero Bay and the Gulf of Mexico, while expansive private terraces and refined interior finishes deliver an enviable retreat for those seeking a carefree Florida lifestyle.

A wide array of signature amenities will create inviting social spaces and provide services that elevate everyday experiences into meaningful moments. Atop The Island’s 24th floor, the rooftop oasis creates a breathtaking backdrop for refreshing dips in the adult Relaxation Pool, and sunset celebrations overlooking the expansive Gulf of Mexico vistas. The ground-level amenities include a Resident Club Room, a resort-style pool with lanes for lap swimming, a state-of-the-art Fitness Center, private guest suites, and refrigerated storage for deliveries. A family-friendly Splash Lounge will provide a multi-generational gathering space to entertain visiting guests. The welcoming Sports Lounge will be a fan favorite offering high-tech sports simulator action for golf, racing, and other sports.

Newly Refreshed Sales Gallery Features Model Kitchen

With construction slated to begin in the summer of 2024, Kolter Urban recently opened a newly refreshed Sales Gallery for The Island at West Bay. The new space offers a firsthand experience revealing the contemporary features that will await each residence. The focal point is a gorgeous designer model kitchen that seamlessly merges Coastal and Tuscan designs with awe-inspiring views. Here, Wolf and Sub-Zero appliances are flawlessly set into European cabinetry, complemented by exquisite quartz countertops. Visitors will be fully immersed in the future through an interactive sales presentation and will get to know Kolter Urban’s legacy of building luxury properties.

Priced from $3 million, The Island at West Bay provides world-class living within the comforts of a close-knit community. For more information on this exciting new residential offering, please contact 239-399-5009 or visit IslandWestBay.com.