5 Things to Consider If You’re Ready to Start the Next Chapter in Florida

As cooler temperatures start to settle in across the country, many are planning their winter getaways. It’s no surprise that Florida, with its beautiful beaches, world-class golf, and vibrant entertainment, remains a top choice. However, the Sunshine State offers a wide array of places to call home, each with a unique appeal. From the sophisticated yet comfortable atmosphere of the Paradise Coast to the lively energy of South Florida, finding the ideal spot to match one’s lifestyle can be both exciting and overwhelming. Here are five tips to help you get started.

1. Plan for 365 Days a Year

Before buyers even start their home search, they need to choose the region that best suits their lifestyle. Prospective homeowners should consider areas that offer activities appealing not only to themselves but also to family and friends who will visit. An area rich in diverse attractions allows residents to plan a different adventure every day of the year.

The greater Naples region is packed with options for every interest. Art lovers are treated to a wealth of options, from the Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall in Ft. Myers to the newly renovated Gulfshore Playhouse and Artis-Naples’ modern and contemporary art. Fashionistas have plenty of designer and boutique options nearby, including Coconut point, Mercato and Naples’ historic Fifth Avenue South. Sports enthusiasts will find plenty of excitement with MLB spring training grounds for the Boston Red Sox and Minnesota Twins nearby. Convenient travel options via Southwest Florida International Airport and Naples Airport further enhance the area’s appeal to global travelers.

2. Live Like You’re on a Permanent Florida Vacation

Lifestyle is always a key factor, and country club living is a popular choice for their extensive amenities, championship golf and gated settings. In Southwest Florida, there’s no community as amenity-rich as West Bay Club. It’s the only community in Estero with a private Beach Club, highlighted by beachside personalized service and oceanfront dining. The Bay House at West Bay features a resort-style pool and fitness center, while River Park provides a boat launch for kayaking and paddleboarding in the Estero River. Members also enjoy two dog parks, eight tennis courts, six pickleball courts, bocce ball courts, and a full calendar of dining and social events. Golf Members will appreciate a championship course designed by Pete and P.B. Dye to cater to all skill levels. The Golf Clubhouse also features two dining venues exclusive to Golf Members – a gourmet restaurant and The Niblick, a 19th hole grille and lounge.

3. Consider the Added Benefits of New Construction

New construction offers features and benefits that older homes simply can’t match. Designed with modern lifestyles in mind, these properties incorporate the latest architectural trends and design innovations. The Island at West Bay, the ninth and final address coming to West Bay Club, exemplifies this with the design of its 86 residence condominium tower. Each home boasts expansive private terraces, walls of glass, and contemporary finishes, all designed to enhance the stunning views of Estero Bay and the Gulf of Mexico.

This modern lifestyle extends well beyond the residences themselves. Two levels of exclusive amenities will enhance daily life even further. These features include a rooftop pool deck on the 24th floor, a Resident Club Room on the main level, a resort-style pool with lap lanes, and a state-of-the-art Fitness Center. Additional amenities include private guest suites, a family-friendly Splash Lounge, and a Sports Lounge with a high-tech golf simulator.

4. Find a Neighborhood with Lasting Value

When planning a move to Florida, selecting a neighborhood with lasting appeal and value is crucial. New construction communities offer the latest features and innovations, ensuring they remain stylish and relevant for years. Locations near airports, the Florida coastline, or essential amenities typically retain their desirability and provide long-term advantages. Communities developed with meticulous planning and strategic insights offer significant advantages. Kolter Urban, the developer behind The Island at West Bay, is renowned for its market expertise and site selection. With over 5,600 residences across the Southeast, early buyers often benefit from increased property values and growing demand upon completion.

5. Seek Out Natural Wonders

In today’s world, beautifully preserved natural areas are increasingly valued by home buyers. The real estate market trends reveal a growing appreciation for nature, with many seeking locations where they can harmoniously coexist with it. Estero, situated between Naples and Fort Myers, is a prime example of this trend. Residents have easy access to the stunning Gulf of Mexico coastline and the lush mangroves of Estero Bay. This area offers abundant opportunities to immerse in nature, from kayaking through mangroves to spotting wildlife and exploring Estero Bay’s small islands. Nearby parks, such as Matanzas Pass Preserve and Estero Bay Preserve State Park, provide glimpses of manatees, dolphins, and other wildlife. Additionally, Koreshan State Park, Lovers Key State Park, and Mound Key Archaeological State Park offer further exploration and natural beauty.

Coastal Florida Living Without Compromise

Located just north of Naples in Estero, The Island at West Bay Club is quickly emerging as a premier destination for those seeking luxury living in a close-knit community. Construction is well underway, with the tower expected to top out in 2025 and be ready for occupancy in 2026. The Island’s Sales Gallery is open daily for those interested in learning more about these new residences starting at $3 million. Click here or contact 239-399-5009 for more information.