Jimmy's Key West Blog

Water, Water Everywhere in Key West

Jimmy Lane ( Century 21 Schwartz Realty) — Thu, 16 May 2013 17:20:53 -0700

There’s water in Key West for days and days. It’s one of the reasons our southernmost view of the sunset is amongst the most beautiful anywhere. Imagine waking up and ending your day to the sun rays rippling on the topaz ocean all around, right outside your window.

Only in paradise, right? That’s right. But then again, 156 Sea Lane in Key West, FL, might actually be paradise. This 3-bedroom, 2.5 bath, custom designed fortress is perfect for deep sea fishers and boaters. This incredible slice of heaven boasts both beauty and brawn. It was built to withstand strong weather and features an open floor-plan, lovely hardwood floors and 12’ ceilings.

Let me help you find your perfect palace in the paradise of Key West, FL.

Whether you’re a tourist, looking to move permanently to the Keys, or just someone who likes the beauty of nature, the great variety of amenities in the homes in our area are just more reason to want to live in beautiful Key West. If you’re interested in real estate in this attractive area contact me, Jimmy Lane, at Key West Real Estate: 305-766-0585.

Key West and Lower Keys April 2013 Real Estate Statistics

Jimmy Lane ( Century 21 Schwartz Realty) — Mon, 13 May 2013 07:03:58 -0700

Month-over-month, the 2013 Key West real estate market has steadily outperformed 2012. So far this year in the Keys, 189 homes of been sold year-to-date, and only 144 over the same time-period last year. What is quite curious are the average and median selling prices of area homes, which are only slightly higher. However, the increased home sales could be the product of the minimal rate of increase in home prices. In the Lower Keys, the opposite is true, with a significant increase in selling prices, and fewer homes sold.

In Key West, the April 2013 real estate market had 63 total sales last month, compared to only 45 in 2012. In the Lower Keys, 26 homes were sold in April 2013 – 3 fewer than in April 2012.

The number of homes sold seems to correlate pretty closely with home prices. The average and median home prices in Key West for April 2013 were $541,000 and $434,000 respectively. In the Lower Keys, average and median home prices were $360,000 and $338,000.

The market is very strong in Key West, and it’s a great time to get in on the action. Right now, if you’re looking for a move to Key West, the housing prices are increasing very slowly, and homes are certainly selling.

Whether you’re a tourist, looking to move permanently to the Keys, or just someone who likes the beauty of nature, the great variety of amenities in the homes in our area is just one more reason to want to live in beautiful Key West. If you’re interested in real estate in this attractive area contact me, Jimmy Lane, at Key West Real Estate: 305-766-0585.

Architectural Styles of Key West, Florida

Jimmy Lane ( Century 21 Schwartz Realty) — Thu, 02 May 2013 17:18:58 -0700

Key West is known for it’s beautiful, caribbean-inspired architecture and style. Let’s take a look at some of the architectural styles of the area.

Queen Anne: This style is characterized by red brick, and often incorporates simple, elegant ornamentation. While shapes and sizes vary, most style have a forward-facing gable. Covered porches are quite common and usually wrap around from the front to the side of the home and feature intricate spindle work.

Classic Revival (Conch): Wooden homes, typically one or two stories. Roofs can be shingled or metal. The home is set up on piers or posts. Conch style homes feature an open porch that expands the width of the house. Ornamentation is not typically found on this style of homes.

Eyebrow style: This is a derivative of the classic revival, featuring gables and porches, but with a series of “eyebrow” windows under the roof eaves of the second floor.

Shotgun: These homes are small and simple with origins in West Africa and the French Caribbean. Being one story and one room wide, these modest homes feature three rooms end-to-end so a shot fired through the front door would exit the back door.

Bahama style: Bahamian homes showcase spacious verandas with simple balustrades. Like many of its counterparts, the bahamian architecture features a wide porch across its length, but on low facades.

Frame Vernacular: Usually a story and a half tall, these homes were purely functional, lacking any detailing or ornamentation. However, this architecture style often is characterized by the environmental, cultural and historical influences of the area.

Garbo’s Grill - Taking a Bite out of Key West’s Foodie Scene

Jimmy Lane ( Century 21 Schwartz Realty) — Thu, 18 Apr 2013 16:14:11 -0700

Possibly the best food in Key West isn’t at a restaurant at all. And no, it isn’t at your retired grandma’s house either. It’s at Garbo’s Grill, the hottest thing on wheels -- yep, a food truck. A little metal cart with a monster of a mascot -- a van with a mean bomber shark paint job by local legend, Rick Worth.

But let’s talk about the food. Look up this restaurant on any of the review sites, and you’d be hard pressed to find anything less than a four-star review. The menu showcases selections like tacos, burritos, quesadillas, burgers, and hotdogs in several varieties. You’ll find Mahi Mahi, shrimp, marinated beef, and jerk chicken, all with fresh Caribbean-inspired toppings.

The owners are lovebirds Kenna and Eli Pancamo, who moved to Key West, FL after being bitten by the Key West bug. They met each other and embarked on a lifelong journey together, including building their business, Garbo’s Grill. The grill was a dream come true after they had spent several years working through ideas and recipes, until they hit gold, or rather silver.

The little silver cart has become part of the very culture of Key West, and if you’re ever in town, you should make it a point to get in line.

Visit Key West and experience all we have to offer here. Big things are happening on our tiny little island, and I promise you’ll be bitten.

Key West and Lower Keys Stats for March 2013

Jimmy Lane ( Century 21 Schwartz Realty) — Wed, 17 Apr 2013 14:18:01 -0700

In February the numbers were really looking up for the real estate market here in Key West and in the Lower Keys, and last month’s statistics are even better than in February. The market is really much better than last year, and combined with the spring sales boom, these two factors were a recipe for an increase in home sales.

In comparison to last year, I’m excited to see a 97% increase in total homes sold for March 2013. That is really significant and wonderful, and it solidifies my confidence in a much better year for home buying and selling. For actual numbers, be sure to check out the graphs.

Not only are more homes being sold, the average selling price of both single family and townhomes/condos increased by a total of 29%. This is a really good indicator of a growing market in association with the number of homes sold. Overall the median home selling price increased significantly as well by 15%

In the Lower Keys, all stats have increased since last year. Total listings sold increased by 6%. Important to note here is that while the number of single family listings sold increased by 44%, the number of condos/townhomes sold stayed the same and there was a 50% decrease in the number of “other” types of homes sold, going from 6 to 3. These individual indicators grossly affect the number of homes sold. Average selling price and median selling price in the Lower Keys increased by 54% and 53% respectively.

We’re nearly halfway through the year and the market is really looking good. Let’s stay positive about the remainder of the year!

And remember...

Retiring in the Keys - Senior Attractions in Key West, FL

Jimmy Lane ( Century 21 Schwartz Realty) — Sun, 07 Apr 2013 20:55:46 -0700

If you are looking for a place to retire and call your new home as a senior citizen, the Florida Keys is the perfect place to consider. Of course retirees want to enjoy their next chapter of life, so it’s a given that your new permanent residence offers everything you need and want. Key West, FL has no shortage of activities and amenities for senior citizens in the area. Seniors enjoy an exceptionally high quality of life here.

On Sunday evenings, jazz lovers can enjoy live performances at The Garden Hotel. The performance features a beautiful poolside garden and a wine bar.

History buffs might want to consider joining the Key West Art and Historical Society as a card-carrying member of The Time Traveller's Club. Members receive exclusive discounts to museums all across the country, several in Florida. Discounts include parking credits, museum restaurant discounts and even discounts on gift shop items.

The Key West Library offers matinees on certain days of the week. There are themed film festivals on Saturday mornings, and on the last Wednesday of the month, the library shows a classic or foreign film. Admission is always free.

There’s so much life here in Key West that senior citizens here find many things to do that don’t require organized activities, but the Senior Center does offer organized options and free hot meals for seniors in the Key West area. The Garden Club, Maritime History Society, the Key West Yacht Club, the Power Squadron, and the Moose and Elk clubs are amongst the most active. Seniors also often use the clubs just to meet and socialize, hanging around to play bingo or card games with other seniors.

And remember...

A Vacation Home in Key West is Within Your Reach

Jimmy Lane ( Century 21 Schwartz Realty) — Thu, 21 Mar 2013 13:20:14 -0700

I’m not sure if there’s been a post yet in which I haven’t mentioned the sheer beauty of Key West Florida. White sands and gemstone-like, aquamarine waters attract millions of visitors every year. Of those millions, some choose to make Key West their permanent home, or at least their second home.

And there’s good reason. Key West has it all: natural beauty, arts and entertainment, and perfect weather--the trio of an earthly paradise. Ask any resident and he’ll probably tell you Key West is as close to perfection as you’ll likely get.

Are you ready to live in paradise? I’m sure your answer is yes, but you may have other obligations that keep you bound to your current home for at least most of the year, such as a job or family. A possible option? Purchase a second home.

I can hear the sarcastic chuckling from you already, but don’t scoff at the idea just yet. Here are a few quick items of consideration that may put the idea of buying a vacation home within your reach.

Vacation Homes Aren’t Just for the Rich

With lower interest rates on mortgages and home equity lines of credit, buying a second home isn’t a far-off fantasy anymore. Also home prices, on average, are lower than they’ve been in years. It's a good time to look into the possibility if owning a second home is seriously something you would like to do now. For instance, in Key West the average home selling price dropped 10.2% when comparing February 2012 to February 2013.

Only Buy What You Can Afford

Those interest rates and prices might be tempting, but still keep in mind what you can afford. Consider that you will need to make a down payment that is usually somewhere between 30% and 50%. If you have around $50,000 saved, you may be able to afford a home in the neighborhood of $100,000.

Consider Rental Income

If you’ll only be in your vacation home for a few months or weeks out of the year, it may be a good move to rent it out during other times. Of course additional income means tax implications (and credits too), so be sure to consult the IRS tax code to find out what expenses may be deductible.

Do Not Buy a Timeshare

There are many a regretful soul who are trying to rid themselves of their bad investment. In a market like this, scammers abound. Timeshares have always been a bad business strategy, especially for buyers. Don’t be lured into the trap.

Think About Travel Time and Convenience

If you live in Chicago and want to purchase a home in Key West, consider the feasibility and the amount of time you are actually able to enjoy your vacation home. That’s quite a long trip to stay for a weekend, but if you have 3 or 4 weeks of vacation to spare, the airfare and length of travel may be well worth it.

Work with a Local Agent

You really want your home-away-from-home to be a true experience in paradise, and you’re not going to get that with an agent who doesn’t know anything about the area. Find an agent who is immersed in the local culture and lifestyle, and who will work in your interest to find the best home and location for your needs. Agents who are simply trying to sell a home have the potential to ruin your dreams and leave you stuck. Don’t take the chance.

As a resident of Key West, I’ve been able to experience the incredible lifestyle the area has to offer. I’m always eager to help my clients find their little slice of heaven.

Key West and Lower Keys Statistics for February 2013

Jimmy Lane ( Century 21 Schwartz Realty) — Fri, 08 Mar 2013 21:15:59 -0800

The market is looking up for Key West real estate this February, with significant raises from February 2012. In a month-to-month comparison, February saw a total home sales of 41, up from only 17 in January. This increase put the market in a position to surpass February 2012, which it did significantly. February 2013 ended the month with 9 more than last year’s 32.

Note, however, that average and median selling prices in Key West decreased by 10.2% and 16.7%, respectively. February 2012’s average home selling price was $469,875 and the median price was $386,500. This could indicate that sellers are lowering prices to get homes sold.

The Lower Keys’ statistics for February 2013 skyrocketed in all areas. While January 2013 ended the month with a very modest number of homes sold at just 7, February 2013 more than quadrupled the number of homes sold, closing out at 31 sales. The Lower Keys also increased the number of homes sold last February by 121%. Average selling prices in the area went up more than 78% to $459,944 and the median increased to $391,666.

The numbers this month looked really good and are very encouraging for the remainder of the year. With the spring sales boom coming in, perhaps the market will see even brighter days.

Until next time...

Whether you’re a tourist, looking to move permanently to the Keys, or just someone who likes the beauty of nature, the great variety of amenities in the homes in our area are just more reason to want to live in beautiful Key West. If you’re interested in real estate in this attractive area contact me, Jimmy Lane, at Key West Real Estate: 305-766-0585.

There’s Culture in Key West - A Guide to Area Art, Music and Theater

Jimmy Lane ( Century 21 Schwartz Realty) — Thu, 07 Mar 2013 15:48:36 -0800

There is no shortage of culture and arts in Key West, FL. Our area boasts a unique and varied creative community, from dance, music and visual art, to film and theater. Even if you’re a long time resident, you may discover a hidden gem. If you’re new to the area, explore all the culture Key West has to offer.

If you’re a serious film lover, you’ll be happy to know that Florida’s one and only independent film complex is located here in the Keys. Owned by the Florida Keys Film Society, Tropic Cinema has regular showings of a wide variety of films, including foreign, contemporary, and Cinematheque.

History buffs and museum goers will enjoy places like the Ernest Hemingway House and Museum, or the Custom House that is home to the Key West Art & History Museum. For a unique, “only-in-the-Keys” historic experience, visit the Florida Keys History of Diving Museum and see exhibitions of early dive technology. One of the museums most famed collections is a showing of 25 diving helmets from 25 nations.

Dance and theater define a community with real culture and class so it only makes sense that Key West has a thriving dance and theater presence. Joyce Stahl is a local celebrity in her own rights, dancing for 35 years with the New Jersey American Repertory Ballet. Joyce’s genius is on display with her own production of “The Nutcracker”, the traditional holiday performance with a tropical twist.

There is no shortage of theatrical productions, with shows ranging from gut-busting comedy to emotion-provoking dramas. The list of talent is comprised of skilled performers from the local area and professional actors and actresses from New York and Los Angeles.

Florida Keys Council of the Arts website contains lots of information about the dance and theater community, including a calendar of events.

Then of course, there is the music. Influenced by a variety of American-created and Caribbean-flavored feels, the music scene in Key West offers something for everyone’s taste. Islamorada Community Entertainment sponsors several live musical performances at the TIB Bank Amphitheater. Be certain to check out FLKCA, the Florida Keys Concert Association, for more information on dates and performing artists.

There’s more than enough culture in the Keys to keep you busy, whether you’ve been here most of your life or are visiting for the first time. Whether you’re a tourist, looking to move permanently to the Keys, or just someone who likes the beauty of nature, the great variety of amenities in the homes in our area are just more reason to want to live in beautiful Key West. If you’re interested in real estate in this attractive area contact me, Jimmy Lane, at Key West Real Estate, 305-766-0585.

10 Tips to Stage Your Home for a Spring Sale

Jimmy Lane ( Century 21 Schwartz Realty) — Sat, 23 Feb 2013 04:14:29 -0800

There’s something about spring that makes people want to buy new homes. Unsuccessful sellers who had problems in the winter months can often redeem themselves during the months of April, May, and June. So if you’re in the market to sell, this is a great time of year to prepare. Here are 10 tips to help you spring into a successful sale.

1. Incorporate your annual spring cleaning into the staging process. Get rid of that clutter! Put away out-of-season items and tidy up the most cluttered spaces in your home, such as the den, office or kids rooms. Get everyone in on it and have them make tidiness a habit until your home sells (making it a permanent habit would be even better).

2. Update your decor for spring and think neutral for a more inviting look. Prospective buyers like to be able to imagine their own furniture and decor in a space. Too much color and highly themed design hinders the buyer’s connection with the home.

3. Neutral doesn’t mean boring. Add pops of color to keep prospects’ attention. Consider adding fresh flowers to a vase to minimally decorate tables. Or perhaps purchase inexpensive but beautiful artwork to dress up walls. Experiment with different ways to hang wall paintings, such as diagonally or in collage form.

4. Get a buyer’s perspective on your curb appeal. With a smartphone or camera in hand, go across the street and assess your home. Make a list of the things that may turn buyers away and the things you believe they may find attractive. Of course, making a list isn’t the end; correct eye sores like signs of neglect, clutter or weeds.

5. It may seem drastic, but if you really do want to sell your home, rearranging and even removing furniture will have to be a part of the staging process. Too much furniture in a room can make it feel cluttered and stuffy. Bad furniture arrangement can take away from the size of a room. Consider selling, throwing away or putting into storage furniture that does not really have a place in the room. Arrange your furniture to offer the best traffic flow which will highlight the size of the space.

6. Play up the unique selling points of your home. Details really do count and add up to dollars. For example, beautiful but empty glass cabinet faces or unused small spaces hide the added value of these features in your home. That small empty area in front of your kitchen bar may work well as a breakfast nook. Highlight it by adding a small table in the area.

7. Smells add to the ambience of a home and can make or break a sale. Weird pet smells are an instant turnoff. On the other hand, using subtle room fresheners, nothing too loud or heavy, can be appealing. On the day of an open house, have cookies baking in the oven; no one can resist the smell of freshly baked cookies!

8. Don’t neglect the bathroom. Even if your bathroom is small, it can still be appealing if it is neat, clean, and updated. Go ahead and spend the extra money on professional tiling, replace broken toilet seats, update cabinetry and repaint as necessary. Add minimal decor and you’ve got a major selling point.

9. Laundry rooms are another great feature, but no one wants to see your dirty laundry and cleaning supplies all over the area. Be sure to pay just as much attention to the laundry room as the rest of the house; it could make or break a sale.

10. Remember that to sell a home, the buyer has to like it. Even if neutrals aren’t your thing, or if you love the detailed wall border in your bathroom, buyers may have a different perspective, and it is better to err on the side of neutrality.

This spring the market can be in your favor if you keep these home staging ideas in mind. I’m here to offer you help through the process. Whether you’re a tourist looking to move permanently to the Keys, or just someone who likes the beauty of nature, the great variety of amenities in the homes in our area are just more reason to want to live in beautiful Key West. If you’re interested in real estate in this attractive area contact me, Jimmy Lane, at Key West Real Estate: 305-766-0585.

Sources:

About.com - Home Buying/Selling

HGTV - Staging Basics from the Pros

Romance is in the Air - Valentine’s Day in Key West

Jimmy Lane ( Century 21 Schwartz Realty) — Thu, 07 Feb 2013 09:06:25 -0800

The sweet smell of love has a permanent stay here in Key West, FL. The beautiful weather and lush tropical setting make it easy for romance to brew between loving couples in our area. Yet each year Cupid is faithful to visit on February 14th, sending significant others into a frenzy to find the perfect flowers, the perfect card, or a shining diamond to express their feelings to that special someone.

Living in a place like Key West, we sometimes take for granted our beautiful natural surroundings, but Valentine’s Day is the perfect opportunity to appreciate all that Key West has to offer. Just for Valentine’s Day, Classic Harbor Line has a wonderful cruise for couples to enjoy our unmatched view of the sunset, whilst sipping a glass of complimentary wine and tasting a gourmet fruit and cheese display.

If you’re in the mood for food, try Santiago’s Bodega, a trendy little tapas-style restaurant, for a fun evening and scrumptious eats with your Valentine. Enjoy hot and cold tapas, as well as delicious soups, salads and desserts.

Of course if you really want to steal the show, check out my current listings for an extravagant Valentine’s Day gift - a new home in amazing Key West, FL! Whether you’re a tourist, looking to move permanently to the Keys, or just someone who likes the beauty of nature, the great variety of amenities in the homes in our area are just more reason to want to live in beautiful Key West. If you’re interested in real estate in this attractive area contact me, Jimmy Lane, at Key West Real Estate: 305-766-0585.

Key West and Lower Keys Statistics for January 2013

Jimmy Lane ( Century 21 Schwartz Realty) — Wed, 06 Feb 2013 10:33:08 -0800

It’s been another exciting month in Key West real estate, and I’m always excited to see the final numbers each month. One thing the statistics show is that we’ve got a long way to go, economically speaking. In a side-by-side comparison, January 2012 saw better days than January 2013; we still had a fairly strong showing this year considering the last-minute avoidance of the fiscal cliff. The same is true in the Lower Keys as well.

This January, real estate agents sold a total of 17 listings, a little less than half that of January 2012. However, January 2013 beat out last year in average selling price with $445,745, up 21.5% from last year. The median selling price was up 10.2% at $362,466.67. The Lower Keys had an even stronger rate of growth with the average selling price up 46.8% at $391,715.50, and the median selling price of $304,812.50, up 18.8% from last year.

Key West real estate is still stable and growing. I am enthusiastic about the next several months of 2013, as the economy strives for higher ground.

Certainly, one thing is indisputable; Key West is still gorgeous and is a great place to consider purchasing a home. Whether you’re a tourist, looking to move permanently to the Keys, or just someone who likes the beauty of nature, the great variety of amenities in the homes in our area are just more reason to want to live in beautiful Key West. If you’re interested in real estate in this attractive area contact me, Jimmy Lane, at Key West Real Estate: 305-766-0585.

Almost Tax Time in Key West

Jimmy Lane ( Century 21 Schwartz Realty) — Thu, 24 Jan 2013 08:04:38 -0800

Hey Key West, are you ready for tax time? Yes, I said that nasty three letter word: TAX. I know that we have just gotten through the holidays. The bills are starting to come in, but believe me, April 15th will be here before you know it.

W2s will not be mailed out until the end of January, and you’re probably just trying to get back in the swing of things. If you start getting your tax items ready now, it will make life much easier when it is time to file. It really doesn’t take that much time if you work on it a little each day. Here are some ideas.

If you are planning to itemize, start getting your receipts together. Make a checklist of the things you think you might need. Many banks already have tax information listed on their web sites that you can either download or print. If you are repaying student loans, some of the lenders have tax information on their web sites, or they may have sent it out already.

If you think that you are going to do the EZ form this year, you won’t have to gather all of that information. However, you can still get ahead of the game. If you have not yet received your tax return forms in the mail, most post offices will have them in stock. You can also go to the local IRS office to get them. Then, take your last paycheck of 2012 and start filling in the required information. When your W2 does arrive, you can go over it again to check your figures. After that, it’s a snap to finish filling out the rest of the information and mail it in. You can even do this online and file your return electronically.

The point is to take some time out of your busy day now, and start getting ready for tax time. Believe me, it will make you feel much better in the long run. Think of it this way – if you take a few minutes a day now to get everything together, you may have your tax return before April 15th. Then, while everyone else is running around trying to get all of the information they need, you will have already used that great tax return as a down payment on your new Key West home.

So get that tax return done early, and I’ll meet you on the beach on the 15th of April for a tax return party. It doesn’t matter whether you’re a tourist, looking to move permanently to the Keys, or just someone who likes the beauty of nature, the great variety of amenities in the homes in our area is just one more reason to want to live in beautiful Key West. If you’re interested in real estate in this attractive area contact me, Jimmy Lane, at Key West Real Estate: 305-766-0585.

Sunny With a Slight Chance of Rain in Key West

Jimmy Lane ( Century 21 Schwartz Realty) — Fri, 11 Jan 2013 10:16:57 -0800

Ah, 80 degrees, nice breeze, may rain tomorrow, but it will still be warm mmmm…another wonderful day in Key West. Would you like to kick back and enjoy a cocktail on the beach today? Oh, I am sorry you don’t live in Key West. Unless you like all that cold and rain or snow, you might want to come join us in balmy Key West.

We have amazing night life, miles of beautiful beaches, friendly people, and warm surf you can play in the year round. You can run a marathon, see a play, check out the classic car show, listen to a concert, or take part in a literary seminar. It doesn’t matter if you want to live near the ocean or someplace further inland. A beach or shopping is usually within walking distance.

Also, don’t forget we have all forms of water sports. You can go deep sea fishing one day, parasailing the next, be a pirate and then a mermaid. Go sailing the ocean blue, and then hold up in a fort and protect your land from marauding pirates. Heck, you might even find Captain Jack and the Black Pearl, or maybe even Nemo. You never know what type of adventure could be waiting around the next corner or wave.

But that is not all; we also have beautiful homes that range from a virtual fortress to a cozy town house. Some are even brand new construction. There are also great schools, interesting jobs, and friendly neighbors.

Sure you can have all this and more in other areas of the country, but there is just a different feeling here in Key West. I think what I love the most about this area is that with all these things, we still have a sense of home. Even with the seasonal exchange of tourists, the charm still remains. Believe me, I have lived here many years and there is still something that will catch my eye and remind me of the wonder that we call home.

Why not check out the wonder, or join me for a cocktail on the beach and find out what the locals already know. Whether you’re a tourist, looking to move permanently to the Keys, or just someone who likes the beauty of nature, the great variety of amenities in the homes in our area is just one more reason to want to live in beautiful Key West. If you’re interested in real estate in this attractive area contact me, Jimmy Lane at Key West Real Estate: 305-766-0585.

Key West and Lower Keys Statistics for December, 2012

Jimmy Lane ( Century 21 Schwartz Realty) — Thu, 03 Jan 2013 11:23:03 -0800

Wow, what a real estate year we have had here in sunny Key West. The year started on a down note. We had just started to see light at the end of the real estate slump tunnel, at this time in 2012. It seemed like the worst was over but we were still on shaky ground. Fortunately, as the year has progressed, there has been a slow but steady growth in not only sales, but in the median price of homes as well.

In Key West, during the calendar year between Dec. 2011 and Dec. 2012, the median selling price of a single family home was $523,500 in 2012, up from $401,000; a more than modest gain for the year. The Lower Keys showed a little more modest gain with the median selling price of a single family home at $441,500 in 2012, up from $385,500 in 2011. I think these numbers show a continued sustainable growth, which will make the market more stable in the long run.

But one thing that I have found very interesting is the amount of listings sold, in both areas, is about the same for both 2011 and 2012. In the Lower Keys, there were a total of 17 listings sold in December, 2011, and a total of 12 listings sold in 2012. Key West checked in with almost identical figures at a total of 50 listings sold in 2012 and 49 in 2011.

I know that these numbers seem to show that there has been no real growth in the economy. But, we are not losing ground either. This shows that the real estate sector of the economy is very stable at this time. Also, with the recent developments in Washington, interest rates for home purchases will be staying at their lower level. So as other parts of the economy catch up, we will be seeing more steady growth on throughout the coming year.

I look at the picture like this: we have avoided the fiscal cliff, the real estate market continues to improve, interest rates are still low, and Key West is one of the most beautiful places in the country to live. I think that paints a pretty good picture. So come down to Key West to check out how the locals live, and whether you’re a tourist, looking to move permanently to the Keys, or just someone who likes the beauty of nature, the great variety of amenities in the homes in our area is just one more reason to want to live in beautiful Key West. If you’re interested in real estate in this attractive area contact me, Jimmy Lane, at Key West Real Estate: 305-766-0585.

Happy New Year Key West!

Jimmy Lane ( Century 21 Schwartz Realty) — Thu, 27 Dec 2012 15:32:26 -0800

Well friends and neighbors, we have made it to the end of another year in sunny Key West, Florida. I have to say that this year has had its ups and downs, but hopefully for you the downs have been few.

Speaking of ups and downs, let’s reminisce about what we have seen in the real estate business during 2012. The biggest news of 2012 was the shrinking housing inventory. Everyone thought we would be overrun with foreclosed homes, but this was not to be the case, thankfully. We have also seen the decline in interest rates, and improvement in home sales. Home prices are also starting to move upward again after declining for so long. Plus, all of the statistics are pointing to a slow, but sustainable growth in the housing industry through 2013.

But enough of all that business stuff. We made it to the end of 2012 and that is an accomplishment in itself. We have lived past the end or the beginning, depending on how you believe, of the Mayan Calendar. December 21, 2012 has come and gone with a major winter storm, but other than that, no problems. Of course, New York will probably still see colder temperatures for their New Year’s celebration. But, you will not freeze participating in Key West’s New Years celebrations. So what do you say, let’s party like it’s 1999!

We can start off the festivities with the Key West Dachshund Walk at noon. Bring the whole family and watch those long little doggies strut their stuff! Then, as the evening gears up, we have several choices to count the minutes ‘til the New Year. We can celebrate at the Conch Shell Drop hosted by Sloppy Joe’s Bar, go risqué and watch the 6-Foot Red High Heel Drag Queen Drop at the Bourbon Street Pub/New Orleans House complex, or party as a Pirate Wench descends from a tall ship mast at the island city’s Historic Seaport. Of course, in Key West, if you really don’t like to party in 70 degree weather, you can always spend an intimate night at home with a few friends, and watch that old ball drop on your TV. But no matter how you slice it, Key West knows how to ring in the New Year.

So come down and kick off 2013 in style, whether you’re a tourist, looking to move permanently to the Keys, or just someone who likes the beauty of nature. The great variety of amenities in the homes in our area is just one more reason to want to live in beautiful Key West. If you’re interested in real estate in this attractive area contact me, Jimmy Lane, at Key West Real Estate: 305-766-0585.

Holiday Greetings from Key West!

Jimmy Lane ( Century 21 Schwartz Realty) — Thu, 13 Dec 2012 16:52:15 -0800

We are in the midst of the holiday season here in Key West. I know this because I have seen commercials about chia pets, Norelco shavers, and pets “singing” Deck the Halls. As I watched some of the holiday offerings on TV, I started wondering just how many ways there are to say Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays, or any of the December holiday greetings. So I did some research, and I found out there are at least 57 ways to say Merry Christmas in different languages.

Some of those are:

Mele Kalikimaka ame Hauoli Makahiki Hou! – Hawaiian

Merry Keshmish – Navajo

Feliz Navidad – Spanish

The interesting part is that I have not found too many different ways to greet someone who participates in other holidays during the month. Some of the more prominent of these holidays are Kwanza, Hanukkah and the Winter Solstice. But with a month that literally has a ton of holidays, how do you greet people during this time of year without forgetting someone?

I think I found one answer and this greeting seems to fit all occasions. Try the greeting: Merry Winterval - Winterval is any winter holiday that occurs during the month of December. That seems to pretty much cover the whole month, and I bet you get some interesting reactions when you say it.

But I really think Ben Stine said it best in a 2005 television interview. “It doesn’t bother me a bit when people say, “Merry Christmas to me…I kind of like it. It shows me that we are all brothers and sisters in celebrating this happy time of year.” I believe the most important thing is that we do share the joy of the holidays with others. So to all my brothers, sisters, and their families, no matter how you say it or celebrate it, I hope you have a most wonderful holiday experience.

Hopefully you’ll get the chance to holiday sometime here in Key West, whether you’re a tourist, looking to move permanently to the Keys, or just someone who likes the beauty of nature. The great variety of amenities in the homes in our area is just one more reason to want to live in beautiful Key West. If you’re interested in real estate in this attractive area contact me, Jimmy Lane, at Key West Real Estate: 305-766-0585

Key West and Lower Keys Statistics for November 2012

Jimmy Lane ( Century 21 Schwartz Realty) — Wed, 05 Dec 2012 15:38:50 -0800

Hi everyone! Can you believe that the year is almost over? One last look at the 2012 Key West Association of Realtors statistics shows that over the past year home sales in both Key West and the Lower Keys have been spectacular. Of course there have been some ups and downs, but we are seeing a major improvement over last year. Here are just a few of the numbers to help show what I am talking about.

In November 2011, there were 10 single-family homes, 7 condos, and 0 other types of homes for a total of 17 sold in Key West. But in November 2012, we see that those figures have moved up quite nicely to 20 single-family homes, 18 condos, and 2 other types of homes for a total of 40 sold in 2012. This is a significant increase over last year, and a look at the average selling price comparisons will show things are rising in that area also.

The average selling price is also up in both areas for the month of November. In Key West, the total average selling price was $420,320.33, up from $380,429.00 in 2011. Lower Keys numbers are also experiencing the same type of trend. Total Average selling price in November was $367,308.00, up from $242,450.00 in 2011, and this is usually the slow time of year for real estate.

What a way to end the year here in Key West! There has been slow sustainable growth throughout the year and every reason to believe that this growth will continue into the coming year. So let’s sit back and enjoy the holidays knowing that the housing market is on the mend and growing sustainably.

Speaking of kicking back, why not come and visit one of the hottest markets in the country. Whether you’re a tourist, looking to move permanently to the Keys, or just someone who likes the beauty of nature, the great variety of amenities in the homes in our area is just one more reason to want to live in beautiful Key West. If you’re interested in real estate in this attractive area contact me, Jimmy Lane, at Key West Real Estate: 305-766-0585.

Home for the Holidays in Key West

Jimmy Lane ( Century 21 Schwartz Realty) — Thu, 29 Nov 2012 14:59:57 -0800

There’s no place like home for the holidays in Key West. That’s a little variation on the song, but what better place than Key West to call home no matter the time of year? We have talked at great lengths about all the great things the area has to offer: warm temperatures, ocean breezes, night life, as well as cozy home life.

This month you don’t have to go far for sun, fun, and all kinds of holiday activities. The town is decorated to the nines, and we have Old Saint Nick waiting to hear all your holiday wishes. I also have some beautiful houses that are just waiting for owners to turn them into homes, and begin building their own holiday traditions and memories. Many of these homes even have fireplaces with chimneys so that jolly old elf could bring you your heart's desire.

Here in Key West we also have great rentals available. Maybe you’re not sure if Key West is really the right place to be for the holidays, or for any time of the year. Why not rent a home and check it out? It would really be fun to have a place either in town or out by the beach. You would be able to invite all of the family to share in your holiday cheer, and discover just what a great time you all could have. Just think of the pictures you could post on your FaceBook page making everyone else jealous.

I do have to warn you, though; there is something else that just might make a difference to many people. Key West doesn’t get any snow. Ok, maybe we have some fake snow in department store windows, or perhaps for the local play, but it is really fake - just put there for atmosphere. For some people no snow for the holidays might be a turn off. If you're tired of freezing temperatures, digging out of two feet of snow, and wondering if you’re going to make it to work let alone get everyone in for the holiday feast, why not ditch those cold climates and come down to Key West and try a different type of holiday fun?

So whether you’re a tourist, thinking about renting, looking to move permanently to the Keys, or just someone who likes the beauty of nature, the great variety of amenities in the homes in our area is just one more reason to want to live in beautiful Key West. If you’re interested in real estate in this attractive area contact me, Jimmy Lane, at Key West Real Estate: 305-766-0585.

A Key West Thanksgiving!

Jimmy Lane ( Century 21 Schwartz Realty) — Thu, 15 Nov 2012 13:43:26 -0800

Ah, I can already smell the holiday feast cooking in my kitchen. This is always an exciting time of year for everyone here in Key West and around the country. Next week many of us will celebrate Thanksgiving and enjoy family and friends. In Key West we have a few other activities going on that you might enjoy if you get tired of all the football games and holiday programs.

The Lucky Street Gallery presents a “Fresh Look at Florida”, showing now through November 23. Eight artists lend their talents, through different mediums ranging from paint to pottery, to express the different aspects of the State of Florida.

From November 7-24,The Red Barn Theatre presents “Person of Interest”, a new play from playwright/director Bob Bowersox, that is sure to give the amateur sleuths a challenge trying to figure out who done it. Given three grisly murders, one master interrogator, and a tough suspect, you’ll have all the details you need to figure it all out and have fun along the way.

To really kick off the Holidays, you need to check out the Key West “Bight Before Christmas” Holiday Celebration running from November 21-December 31. The celebration is the best way to get in the holiday mood. We have live music, games for kids, and a historic harbor walk linking colorful seaport restaurants, bars, and businesses at the Key West Bright.

One thing that remains the same, no matter what time of year, is the charm of island breezes and the sea waves rolling over the shore. All it takes is one visit to Key West and you’ll want to stay here for life. I can help you make living here a reality. There are many beautiful houses in the area just waiting for someone like you to come and make them a home.

So come enjoy the holidays, and whether you’re a tourist, looking to move permanently to the Keys, or just someone who likes the beauty of nature, the great variety of amenities in the homes in our area is just one more reason to want to live in beautiful Key West. If you’re interested in real estate in this attractive area contact me, Jimmy Lane, at Key West Real Estate: 305-766-0585.

Key West and Lower Keys October Selling Statistics

Jimmy Lane ( Century 21 Schwartz Realty) — Wed, 07 Nov 2012 15:00:00 -0800

Well, it is that time of year again in Key West. Halloween is over and everyone is starting to gear up for their particular holiday tradition. Because of the holidays, this time of year usually brings a slowdown in home buying activity. But for the month of October, statistics are showing that the ghouls and goblins didn’t scare off home buyers in Key West and the Lower Keys.

Our monthly analysis of the Key West Association of Realtors Statistics shows that October was another month in the plus category across the board. Listings sold in Key West are up nicely from 22 in 2011 to 34 this year. The Lower Keys listings sold are also up from 9 last year to 11 in 2012.

This trend is also reflected in the median selling price comparisons for the two areas. Looking at the graph to the right, we can see that Key West had a median selling price increase from $346,000 in October 2011 to $370,833 in 2012. This is a $248,333 price increase over last year. The Lower Keys are showing the same type of information. In October of 2011, the median selling price was $237,000, and last month, the median selling price was $308,750, which is an increase of $71,750 in the last year.

This means we had a 7.2% increase in home median selling prices in Key West and 30.3% in the Lower Keys. I know that many people are talking about the fact that this is the worst recovery we have ever had as a nation, but there are signs of recovery if we look for them. I believe, and many statisticians agree, we are only going to move forward with slow sustainable recovery, and now is the time to buy or sell.

So whether you’re a tourist, looking to move permanently to the Keys, or just someone who likes the beauty of nature, the great variety of amenities in the homes in our area is just one more reason to want to live in beautiful Key West. If you’re interested in real estate in this attractive area contact me, Jimmy Lane, at Key West Real Estate: 305-766-0585.

Home Market Correction is Over in Key West

Jimmy Lane ( Century 21 Schwartz Realty) — Thu, 01 Nov 2012 16:23:27 -0700

Hi, everyone. Since we are going to put out our Key West and Lower Keys statistics next week, I thought I would share some other statistics that just might interest you. According to the experts conducting the Home Price Expectation Survey, the market correction is over in Key West and around the country.

As the graph to the right shows, this survey predicts the annual percentage rate of home appreciation to grow by a more normal level by 2015. We can gauge what this means to us by looking at the market before, during, and after the “Housing Bubble Years”.

During the “Bubble Years” of 2000 to 2007, homes appreciated at an annual rate of 10.4 percent. This was an anomaly and had to be corrected, which has happened as home prices fell by almost 6 percent over the last six years. In the “Pre-Bubble Years” of 1987 to 1999, annual average appreciation of homes was 3.6 percent. Now starting with 2012 through 2015, we are looking forward to a 3.43 percent annual appreciation rate. This is approaching a more normal growth rate and one that can be sustained into the future.

But can we rely on this statistical information? The Home Price Expectation Survey is a survey of over a hundred leading analysts in the housing market. These experts consist of representatives from the National Association of Realtors, academics from Harvard, Yale, etc. and CEOs of some of the major banks and investment institutions around the country. The Home Price Expectation Survey compiles all of this information and combines it into a single statistical percentage projection for each of the next four years. This means that the experts in the country are saying "things are getting better in the housing market, and the correction is over.”

Since we have it on good authority that we can look forward to a more normal growth in the housing market, now is the perfect time to make an investment in Key West! Check us out whether you’re a tourist, looking to move permanently to the Keys, or just someone who likes the beauty of nature. The great variety of amenities in the homes in our area is yet one more reason why you would want to live in beautiful Key West. If you’re interested in real estate in this attractive area, contact me, Jimmy Lane, at Key West Real Estate: 305-766-0585.

Halloween in Key West

Jimmy Lane ( Century 21 Schwartz Realty) — Fri, 19 Oct 2012 08:52:07 -0700

"What are you going to be for Halloween?" has to be one of the most asked questions during this time of year in Key West and around the country. But do we really know how and why the tradition began?

All Hallow’s Eve (Halloween) is supposed to be the time of year when the veil between the realm of the living and the dead is thinner. This means that the spirits of the dead can slip through and wreak havoc on the realm of the living. Many years ago, the Celts celebrated their harvest festival at this time of year and also the transition from the light-half of the year to the dark-half of the year. Some traditions also believe that carving a scary pumpkin and putting a light in it will scare away the dead or evil spirits that walk the earth on October 31^st, and keep us safe.

Today we think of Halloween as a time to celebrate many things--whether it be harvest, fall or just a fun way of moving toward the winter months. Candy is given to our little ghouls and goblins so they won’t pull pranks on us. Retailers look forward to the upcoming holidays, and see Halloween as the actual kick off to the shopping season. They even have come up with a name for the shopping season: OctoNovemCember. This name refers to the last few months of the year and all the holidays connected with them.

In Key West, we celebrate Halloween pretty much like we live, in grand fashion. The Annual Fantasy Fest starts on Oct. 19^th and runs through the 28^th. During this same time Fort Zachary Taylor is also gearing up for its Annual Haunting of Fort Zachary Taylor with all the treats and haunting any good ghoul would want. The Water Front Play house will be a riot with its burlesque showThe Battle for Bone Island; someone has to save Key West from impending doom. The Conch Train will host its Ghosts and Grave Stones tour nightly, so watch out for any strange ghosts you might see.

Even with all of this going on, there is still time to step back and enjoy the other amenities that Key West offers. Especially going home, after a night exploring all the haunted party places, kicking off your shoes and just enjoying the soft night breeze blowing in off the ocean. This is what is really wonderful about Key West.

You have the choice of enjoying the party side of the town or the home side of the town. Living here can create a sense of connection to nature as well as the outlandish and everything in between. So whether you’re a tourist, looking to move permanently to the Keys, or just someone who likes the beauty of nature, the great variety of amenities in the homes in our area is just one more reason to want to live in beautiful Key West. If you’re interested in real estate in this attractive area contact me, Jimmy Lane, at Key West Real Estate: 305-766-0585.

Key West and Lower Keys Real Estate Market Report

Jimmy Lane ( Century 21 Schwartz Realty) — Fri, 05 Oct 2012 14:40:11 -0700

We have been talking lately about a shortage of inventory in the housing market, and a look at the Key West Association of Realtors report shows us that this trend is continuing. There were 33 fewer active properties than at this time last year in Key West. A decrease in the number of active properties usually means a shorter stay on the market for homes, and we are seeing this to be true now. The average number of days spent on market for all properties in Key West has decreased 1.3% over the last month.

An interesting note is that the average price for all properties sold in Key West has decreased to $360,937 down from September 2011 at $401,134. This is a decreased of about 10% overall meaning we are still in a buyer’s market, but I don’t believe it will stay this way for much longer, especially if the inventory continues to drop. So now is the perfect time to take advantage of this market!

On the other hand if we take a look at the Lower Keys market, we see that the prices are starting to rise just a bit. The average price is up 26.4%. The median selling price of properties in the Lower Keys has gone up 50.4% as well. There are also 49 fewer active properties listed compared to September 2011. The Lower Keys' statistics seem to display more favor to the seller! How ironic that Key West favors the buyer and the Lower Keys the seller!

It doesn’t matter if you are a buyer or seller – the Florida Keys are a sound real estate market to be in. This is because The Keys are protected from some of the dangers in the current real estate market due to the fact that it is an attractive vacation destination. The vacation rental market environment is a life preserver for the real estate investor, even with many residents here on a permanent basis. As long as the property is rentable, the investment is self-sustaining. This makes real estate more appealing for investment purposes here than a typical home purchased as a primary residence anywhere else in the country.

Whether you’re a tourist, looking to move permanently to the Keys, or just someone who likes the beauty of nature, the great variety of amenities in the homes in our area are yet one more reason why you would want to live in beautiful Key West. If you’re interested in real estate in this attractive area contact me, Jimmy Lane, at Key West Real Estate: 305-766-0585.

Winter White House in Key West

Jimmy Lane ( Century 21 Schwartz Realty) — Thu, 04 Oct 2012 16:54:57 -0700

The Truman Annex in Key West is part of the Fort Zachary Taylor Naval complex and was once the winter White House of President Harry Truman. This exciting attraction gives visitors a look in to a time when the country’s Cold War was still being waged against Russia. This landmark is historic in nature but is more like a living museum. Surprisingly the Annex is still used for official functions and meetings.

The Truman Annex is also a neighborhood. Much of the land around Fort Zachary Taylor was sold to developers, and the Lower Keys were born. In addition, 32.4 acres of the complex were given to the town of Key West for a green space to protect the neighborhood known as "Bahama Village", home to many citizens of African-Bahamian descent. The remainder continues to be utilized as a military installation and is known as Naval Air Station Key West - Truman Annex.

Another part of the complex is Fort Zachary Taylor. The Fort and surrounding land are under the control of the State of Florida. This area is now known as the Fort Zachary Taylor State Park. The state park is also considered a great visitor destination. Daily tours show how the fort kept the island and its inhabitants safe from various attackers.

We can say many wonderful things about Key West, and its history is rich and storied. Key West has been home to Native Americans, pirates and of course the military. This is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to Key West history; we have much more to offer. So, why not come down and soak up some sun, fun and history.