Kip's Blog

Florida Keys Island Beauty! An entertainer's delight!

Kip Hoover (Coldwell Banker Schmitt Real Estate Company) — Thu, 08 Jan 2009 09:13:45 -0600

What an Island Beauty! An entertainer's delight! Open floor plan features gourmet kitchen with island cook top and bar, custom cabinetry, 3 sliding glass doors for views of the canal and sparkling pool. Master suite features enormous master bath with shower, spa, and his & hers sinks. Easy access to ocean or bay for fishing, diving or just plain fun.
Directions: MM 105.9 turn Bayside onto Linda Drive, turn right onto Norwood Avenue which turns into Plantation Rd, turn left onto Lower Matecumbe Rd. Property near far end on left. 547531 Residential Active $845,000

Provided as a courtesy of

Kip Hoover

Coldwell Banker Schmitt Key Largo
Fax #: (888)866-7980
Cellular: (305)731-6080
Toll Free: (877)289-0035 ext. 7526
100430 Overseas Hwy
KEY LARGO,FL 33037
Kip@KipHoover.com

Key Largo single family home-$325,000

Kip Hoover (Coldwell Banker Schmitt Real Estate Company) — Thu, 08 Jan 2009 09:10:32 -0600

Walk to the beach in the Florida Keys! Private, quiet, treed area of homes just a short walk from the sunrise, beach, boat ramp and park. Well built concrete/stucco home; open floor plan with 2 bedrooms, 1 bath upstairs and 1 bedroom 1 bath down for office or guest room. Covered outdoor summer kitchen and entertainment area. This is living in Paradise!
Directions: MM 92.5 Oceanside, turn east onto Burton Drive, follow signs to Harry Harris Park, turn left onto E. Beach then left onto Atlantic. Property is on left side.545526 Residential Active $325,000

Provided as a courtesy of

Kip Hoover

Coldwell Banker Schmitt Key Largo
Fax #: (888)866-7980
Cellular: (305)731-6080
Toll Free: (877)289-0035 ext. 7526
100430 Overseas Hwy
KEY LARGO,FL 33037
Kip@KipHoover.com
http://www.KipHoover.com

Walk to the beach in the Florida Keys-Condo for $265,000

Kip Hoover (Coldwell Banker Schmitt Real Estate Company) — Thu, 08 Jan 2009 09:07:13 -0600

Walk to the beach in the Florida Keys! Private, gated community with community pool,clubhouse, tennis courts, beach and dock facilities. Open floor plan with 2 bedrooms, 1 1/2 baths. Lush garden area for private parties or relaxing in the evening. Centrally located in the heart of Islamorada and close to Founders Park. This is Island living at its best! 545739 Residential Active $265,000

Provided as a courtesy of

Kip Hoover

Coldwell Banker Schmitt Key Largo
Fax #: (888)866-7980
Cellular: (305)731-6080
Toll Free: (877)289-0035 ext. 7526
100430 Overseas Hwy
KEY LARGO,FL 33037
Kip@KipHoover.com
http://www.KipHoover.com

Key Largo Home-1 lot from the Bay-just $129,000

Kip Hoover (Coldwell Banker Schmitt Real Estate Company) — Thu, 08 Jan 2009 09:02:48 -0600

Only 1 lot from the Bay! ROGO exemption letter pending. Build your dream home with fabulous views of the bay. Community has 2 boat ramps, dock, beach with swimming area. Existing mobile is very livable or use as rental property until you're ready to build. A great opportunity at a fabulous price! 547220 Residential Active $129,000

Provided as a courtesy of

Kip Hoover

Coldwell Banker Schmitt Key Largo
Fax #: (888)866-7980
Cellular: (305)731-6080
Toll Free: (877)289-0035 ext. 7526
100430 Overseas Hwy
KEY LARGO,FL 33037
Kip@KipHoover.com
http://www.KipHoover.com

Key largo New construction, homeowners park with boat ramp

Kip Hoover (Coldwell Banker Schmitt Real Estate Company) — Mon, 08 Dec 2008 08:44:38 -0600

New construction, homeowners park with boat ramp. Modern gourmet kitchen with stainless appliances, eat-in bar, open floor plan, no stairs! Over 1,400 SF of living area!'Short Sale Circumstances - Listing price may not be sufficient to cover all encumbrances, closing costs, or other seller charges and sale of Property at full listing price may be conditioned upon approval of third parties.'

546710 Residential Active $525,000

Provided as a courtesy of

Kip Hoover

Coldwell Banker Schmitt Key Largo
Fax #: (888)866-7980
Cellular: (305)731-6080
Toll Free: (877)289-0035 ext. 7526
100430 Overseas Hwy
KEY LARGO,FL 33037
Kip@KipHoover.com
http://www.KipHoover.com

Key Largo waterfront with Panoramic bay view

Kip Hoover (Coldwell Banker Schmitt Real Estate Company) — Mon, 08 Dec 2008 08:41:40 -0600

Panoramic bay views from your master bedroom. Sunbathe and party on your private and expansive second floor open deck! Deep water canal with easy access to ocean, bay or intercoastal. Cut in boat slip. New construction, modern gourmet kitchen, many extras!

546709 Residential Active $900,000

Provided as a courtesy of

Kip Hoover

Coldwell Banker Schmitt Key Largo
Fax #: (888)866-7980
Cellular: (305)731-6080
Toll Free: (877)289-0035 ext. 7526
100430 Overseas Hwy
KEY LARGO,FL 33037
Kip@KipHoover.com
http://www.KipHoover.com

Panoramic Key Largo bay views-short sale

Kip Hoover (Coldwell Banker Schmitt Real Estate Company) — Mon, 08 Dec 2008 08:38:43 -0600

Remarks - Consumer: Panoramic bay views. Concrete seawall and dock. New construction with quality craftsmanship. 2,100 square feet of open living space! Gourmet kitchen,stainless appliances.'Short Sale Circumstances - Listing price may not be sufficient to cover all encumbrances, closing costs, or other seller charges and sale of Property at full listing price may be conditioned upon approval of third parties.'

546707 Residential Active $999,000

Provided as a courtesy of

Kip Hoover

Coldwell Banker Schmitt Key Largo
Fax #: (888)866-7980
Cellular: (305)731-6080
Toll Free: (877)289-0035 ext. 7526
100430 Overseas Hwy
KEY LARGO,FL 33037
Kip@KipHoover.com
http://www.KipHoover.com

Key Largo waterfront short sale

Kip Hoover (Coldwell Banker Schmitt Real Estate Company) — Mon, 08 Dec 2008 08:35:22 -0600

Short Sale Circumstances - Listing price may not be sufficient to cover all encumbrances, closing costs, or other seller charges and sale of Property at full listing price may be conditioned upon approval of third parties. 'Panoramic views of the bay! New construction! Gourmet kitchen with stainless appliances, island cook-top. Wide, deep canal with great access to ocean or bay.

46708 Residential Active $1,100,000

Provided as a courtesy of

Kip Hoover

Coldwell Banker Schmitt Key Largo
Fax #: (888)866-7980
Cellular: (305)731-6080
Toll Free: (877)289-0035 ext. 7526
100430 Overseas Hwy
KEY LARGO,FL 33037
Kip@KipHoover.com
http://www.KipHoover.com

Key Largo Home-walk to the beach

Kip Hoover (Coldwell Banker Schmitt Real Estate Company) — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 08:29:18 -0600

545526 Residential Active $355,000

Association Info: H. O. A.: No

Fee Includes: None

Tax Exemptions: None

Control Depth: None

Waterfront: None

Waterview: No Waterview

Dockage: None

Building Style: Stilt Column Height: Medium - 5Ft - 9Ft; Stories: 2 Stories

Provided as a courtesy of

Kip Hoover

Coldwell Banker Schmitt Key Largo
Fax #: (888)866-7980
Cellular: (305)731-6080
Toll Free: (877)289-0035 ext. 7526
100430 Overseas Hwy
KEY LARGO,FL 33037
Kip@KipHoover.com
http://www.KipHoover.com

Vehicle Storage: Carport; Off Street Parking

Furnished: Furniture Negotiable

Cooling/Heating: Ceiling Fans; Central A/C; Heat

Porch/Balcony: No Porch/Balcony

Utilities: Buyer to Verify; Elect Separate Meter; FKAA; Septic Tank

Appliances: Dryer; Microwave; Oven; Range; Refrigerator; Washer; Other: 2nd fridge, 2nd mic

Exterior Features: Fencing; Outdoor Kitchen; Shed; Storage

Construction: CBS

Shutters: Accordion; Panel

Floor: Tile Floor

Pets: Pets Allowed

Neighborhood Feature: Beach; Community Boat Ramp; Other Area Features

Key Largo Bay View Condo

Kip Hoover (Coldwell Banker Schmitt Real Estate Company) — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 08:25:50 -0600

EXQUISITE VIEWS OF THE BAY AND CANAL from this large 2 bedroom 2 bath corner unit. Two balconies and an expansive wall of glass afford panoramic views and abundant ambient light. The kitchen features a pass through to the dining room. Relax in the living room or entertain friends. Deep water dockage is available with easy access to Blackwater Sound, the ocean or intercoastal. 2 pools and tennis.

545742 Residential Active $476,100

Association Info: H. O. A.: Yes; Assoc Approval Req: Yes; Association Fee: 1,176; Maintenance Fee $; Assoc/Mnt Fee Per: Quarterly

Fee Includes: Bldg Exterior Mnt; Common Area Mnt; Security

Tax Exemptions: None

Control Depth: 4 Feet

Waterfront: Bay Front

Waterview: Bay View; Canal View; Open Water View

Dockage: Dock: Concrete; Boat Ramp; Dock Privileges

Building Style: Stories: 4+ Stories

Vehicle Storage: Assigned Parking; Guest Parking; Trailer Storage

Furnished: Furniture Negotiable

Provided as a courtesy of

Kip Hoover

Coldwell Banker Schmitt Key Largo
Fax #: (888)866-7980
Cellular: (305)731-6080
Toll Free: (877)289-0035 ext. 7526
100430 Overseas Hwy
KEY LARGO,FL 33037
Kip@KipHoover.com
http://www.KipHoover.com

Cooling/Heating: Ceiling Fans; Central A/C

Porch/Balcony: Deck; Open Porch/Balcony

Utilities: Buyer to Verify; Community Swr Plant; FKAA

Interior Features: Drapes/Blinds Incl; Elevator; Security System; Smoke Alarms

Pre-Wired: Cable

Specialty Rooms: Laundry Room

Appliances: Dishwasher; Dryer; Microwave; Oven; Range; Refrigerator; Washer

Exterior Features: Built-in Grill; Gazebo; Sandy Beach; Tennis Court

Pool Info: In Ground; Other: 2 Pools; Other Surroundings: Lighted Tennis Cts

Construction: CBS

Floor: Carpet; Tile Floor

Roof: Metal Roof

Pets: Pets w/Restrictions

Neighborhood Feature: Beach; Clubhouse; Community Boat Ramp; Community Dockage; Community Pool; Tennis Courts

Security: Electric Gate

Upper Fl Keys Real Condo with Beach-just $265,000

Kip Hoover (Coldwell Banker Schmitt Real Estate Company) — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 08:22:29 -0600

Association Info: H. O. A.: Yes; Assoc Approval Req: Yes; Mandatory Assoc.: Yes; Association Fee: 1,450; Assoc/Mnt Fee Per: Quarterly

Fee Includes: Bldg Exterior Mnt; Common Area Mnt; Security

Tax Exemptions: None

Control Depth: 3 Feet

Waterfront: None

Waterview: No Waterview

Dockage: Dock: Wood; Dock Privileges; First Come Dock

Building Style: Stories: 2 Stories; Townhouse

Vehicle Storage: Open Parking

Provided as a courtesy of

Kip Hoover

Coldwell Banker Schmitt Key Largo
Fax #: (888)866-7980
Cellular: (305)731-6080
Toll Free: (877)289-0035 ext. 7526
100430 Overseas Hwy
KEY LARGO,FL 33037
Kip@KipHoover.com
http://www.KipHoover.com

Furnished: Unfurnished

Cooling/Heating: Ceiling Fans; Central A/C; Heat

Porch/Balcony: Open Porch/Balcony

Utilities: Buyer to Verify; Community Swr Plant; FKAA

Interior Features: Smoke Alarms; Window Treatments

Pre-Wired: Cable

Specialty Rooms: Loft

Appliances: Dishwasher; Dryer; Microwave; Oven; Range; Refrigerator; Washer

Exterior Features: Chickee Hut; Tennis Court

Pool Info: In Ground

Construction: CBS

Pets: No Pets Allowed

Neighborhood Feature: Clubhouse; Community Dockage; Community Pool; Manger on Premises; Tennis Courts

Security: Manned Gate; Patrolled Area

Islamorada Fl Investment property

Kip Hoover (Coldwell Banker Schmitt Real Estate Company) — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 08:16:55 -0600

Extraordinary opportunity to own 1.14 acres and 118' of deepwater dockage. Currently operated as a vacation rental business, this delightful gem features 2 buildings with 4 rental units (7 beds) and a manager's apartment, wade-in pool, tiki hut, manicured grounds. Redevelopment possible up to 7 single family homes with multiple boat slips. Great family compound or development opportunity.

List Price

2,250,000

Control Depth:	4 Feet
Waterfront:	Canal Front
Waterview:	Canal View
Dockage:	Dock Length: 118; Dock: Concrete
Building Style:	Ground Level; Stories: 2 Stories
Vehicle Storage:	Off Street Parking
Furnished:	Furnished
Cooling/Heating:	Window/Wall Unit
Porch/Balcony:	Open Porch/Balcony
Utilities:	Buyer to Verify; FKAA

Appliances:	Dishwasher; Dryer; Microwave; Range; Refrigerator
Exterior Features:	Chickee Hut; Detached Guest Qtrs; Fencing; Hot Tub; Shed; Storage
Pool Info:	In Ground; Concrete
Construction:	CBS
Shutters:	Other
Roof:	Shingle Roof
Pets:	Pets Allowed Kip Hoover, Realtor® Coldwell Banker Schmitt Real Estate Co. 100430 Overseas Highway Key Largo, Florida 33037 305-731-6080 877-289-0035 Ext.7526 Kip@KipHoover.com

Key Largo Bayview home

Kip Hoover (Coldwell Banker Schmitt Real Estate Company) — Fri, 10 Oct 2008 08:34:07 -0500

546707 Residential Active $999,000

Virtual Tour

Beautiful bay views. 60' of concrete seawall and dock. Immaculate new construction. Over 2,100 square feet of living space! Impact windows throughout. Kitchen has raised eat-in bar, stainless appliances, smooth cook top, oven/microwave combo.
Directions: MM106 Turn west onto Sexton Cove Road then right onto Grassy Rd.

Control Depth: 4 Feet

Waterfront: Canal Front

Waterview: Bay View; Canal View; Gulf View; Open Water View

Dockage: Dock Length: 60; Dock: Concrete; Seawall: Concrete

Building Style: Stilt Column Height: Medium - 5Ft - 9Ft; Stories: 2 Stories

Vehicle Storage: Carport

Furnished: Unfurnished

Cooling/Heating: Central A/C; Heat

Porch/Balcony: Deck

Utilities: Aerobic System; Buyer to Verify; FKAA

Interior Features: Smoke Alarms; Storage; Walk-in Closet

Specialty Rooms: Laundry Room

Appliances: Dishwasher; Disposal; Dryer; Microwave; Oven; Range; Refrigerator; Washer

Construction: Modular

Windows/Doors: Impact Rstnce Window

Roof: Shingle Roof

Pets: Pets Allowed

Provided as a service of
Kip Hoover
Coldwell Banker Schmitt Key Largo

100430 Overseas Hwy
KEY LARGO, FL 33037
Cellular - (305) 731-6080
Kip@KipHoover.com
http://www.KipHoover.com

Key largo deep boating home for sale

Kip Hoover (Coldwell Banker Schmitt Real Estate Company) — Fri, 10 Oct 2008 08:31:24 -0500

Virtual Tour

546708 Residential Active $1,100,000

Awaken to panoramic views of the bay!
Directions: MM106, turn bayside onto Sexton Cove Rd then left onto Grassy Rd.

Control Depth: 4 Feet

Waterfront: Canal Front

Waterview: Bay View; Canal View; Gulf View; Open Water View

Dockage: Dock Length: 60; Dock: Concrete; Davit Pads; Davits; Seawall: Concrete

Building Style: Stilt Column Height: Medium - 5Ft - 9Ft; Stories: 2 Stories

Vehicle Storage: Carport; Off Street Parking

Furnished: Unfurnished

Cooling/Heating: Central A/C; Heat

Porch/Balcony: Deck

Utilities: Aerobic System; Buyer to Verify; FKAA

Specialty Rooms: Laundry Room

Appliances: Disposal; Dryer; Microwave; Oven; Range; Refrigerator; Washer

Exterior Features: Chickee Hut; Storage

Construction: Modular

Windows/Doors: Impact Rstnce Window

Floor: Carpet; Tile Floor

Roof: Shingle Roof

Pets: Pets Allowed

Provided as a service of
Kip Hoover
Coldwell Banker Schmitt Key Largo

100430 Overseas Hwy
KEY LARGO, FL 33037
Cellular - (305) 731-6080
Kip@KipHoover.com
http://www.KipHoover.com

KEY LARGO SUNSET VIEW HOME-$530,000

Kip Hoover (Coldwell Banker Schmitt Real Estate Company) — Fri, 10 Oct 2008 08:27:46 -0500

546385 Residential Active $530,000

Photo Tour

Enjoy fabulous evening sunsets from your screened patio overlooking the canal and bay! Deep water access for back country or offshore fishing, diving, or boating. This great island home is an easy commute to Miami but worlds away in peace quiet and ambiance.
Directions: MM 106 turn Bayside onto Sexton Cove Drive, left onto Swallow Road, right onto Bunting Drive the right onto Pigeon Drive. House is 2nd property from the Bay!

Association Info: H. O. A.: Yes; Assoc Approval Req: No; Association Fee: 150; Assoc/Mnt Fee Per: Yearly

Fee Includes: Common Area Mnt

Tax Exemptions: None

Control Depth: 5 Feet

Waterfront: Canal Front

Waterview: Bay View; Canal View; Open Water View

Dockage: Dock: Concrete; Davits

Building Style: Stilt Column Height: Medium - 5Ft - 9Ft

Vehicle Storage: Carport

Furnished: Furniture Negotiable

Cooling/Heating: Central A/C; Heat

Porch/Balcony: Screened Patio

Utilities: Buyer to Verify; Cable Available; FKAA; Septic Tank

Appliances: Dishwasher; Disposal; Dryer; Microwave; Oven; Range; Washer

Construction: Modular

Pets: Pets Allowed

Provided as a service of
Kip Hoover
Coldwell Banker Schmitt Key Largo

100430 Overseas Hwy
KEY LARGO, FL 33037
Cellular - (305) 731-6080
Kip@KipHoover.com
http://www.KipHoover.com

3/2 KEY LARGO Home just LISTED

Kip Hoover (Coldwell Banker Schmitt Real Estate Company) — Fri, 10 Oct 2008 08:23:54 -0500

546710 Residential Active $525,000

Virtual Tour

Fee Includes: Common Area Mnt

Tax Exemptions: None

Control Depth: None

Waterfront: None

Waterview: No Waterview

Dockage: None

Building Style: Ground Level

Vehicle Storage: Garage; Attached

Furnished: Unfurnished

Cooling/Heating: Central A/C; Heat

Porch/Balcony: Deck; Open Porch/Balcony

Utilities: Aerobic System; Buyer to Verify; FKAA

Interior Features: Smoke Alarms; Walk-in Closet

Specialty Rooms: Laundry Room

Appliances: Disposal; Microwave; Oven; Range; Refrigerator; Washer

Construction: Modular

Windows/Doors: Impact Rstnce Window

Roof: Shingle Roof

Pets: Pets Allowed

Neighborhood Feature: Community Boat Ramp

Provided as a courtesy of

Kip Hoover

Coldwell Banker Schmitt Key Largo
Fax #: (888)866-7980
Cellular: (305)731-6080
Toll Free: (877)289-0035 ext. 7526
100430 Overseas Hwy
KEY LARGO,FL 33037
Kip@KipHoover.com
http://www.KipHoover.com

Starting a Business in the Fl Keys part 1

Kip Hoover (Coldwell Banker Schmitt Real Estate Company) — Fri, 12 Sep 2008 10:19:21 -0500

The Keys and the adjoining areas welcome new business. With increased tourism and residents the region offers constant expansion, incredible opportunities and a great lifestyle. Whether you’re considering relocating a company or starting a business from scratch, The Keys wants your business.
Since we are a destination point for tourists from all over the world, meaning substantial money flows through the area, there are opportunities for expansion of existing and/or startup of niche businesses. The Tourists wants and needs plus the lifestyle of the locals make for unique opportunities..
The good news is that from a marketing standpoint it hasn't all been said and done here--it's not like launching a business in New York City--there's still plenty of room here.
BUYING AN EXISTING BUSINESS.
There are opportunities for buying an existing business or starting up your own version. Utilizing a better idea or service, better marketing or any other angle that really makes sense to a customer is always welcome. I'd recommend you look at a business that is not just tourist related, one that will draw customers year round. If you currently have a business and/or have an entrepenurial spirit-you'll quickly see where the holes or opportunities exist here. Existing business's generally return at most about 10% that is from strictly an investment standpoint- if you're going to be working the business-then there's management fees etc that you will keep.NICHE BUSINESS possibilities
The Companies that have anything to do with remodeling, are always in need of help for all phases of the jobs, drywall, painters, tilers, installers etc. If you have skills in these areas, there is opportunity to start your own business and lock in with the builders. The main thing is to be licensed, reliable and do good work. One thing you need to know is that help in these areas is hard to find---since rents are high most workers cannot live on even up to $15.00 per hour---so if you're thinking about a business other than retail that requires lot's of help, tyou may have a problem.There are also many other areas of opportunity. Remember most people that buy homes here need services--For instance the rental houses all need pest control, yard maintenance, cleaning people and a handy man. Generally what happens is an individual or couple start a lawn business. They then go to all the Real Estate offices etc and promote it plus run ads offering their service. After they get to about 50-75 homes or so they are filled up. At this point they don't accept any more work--what I'm saying is that this is constantly evolving and that small niche business can work very well in the Keys. I can tell you from my own experience if you're reliable, return phone calls and do show up you can do well down here.
SUMMARY: The best way to get a feel for what's happening is for you to come down here.
Some of the more significant advantages to living and establishing businesses in Florida, with respect to taxes are:
• No state income tax
• No corporate income tax on sub-chapter S corporations
• First $5000 of taxable income apportioned to Florida is exempt
• No state property tax on inventory or equipment
• No business inventory tax
• No corporate franchise tax on capital stock
• No corporate tax on limited partnerships, individuals, Estates and private trusts
• No collected or assessed state property tax
• No sales tax on "boiler fuels" used at a fixed Florida location in an industrial manufacturing, processing or compounding process
• No sales and use tax on goods manufactured or produced in Florida for resale or export outside Florida

Fl Keys community links

Kip Hoover (Coldwell Banker Schmitt Real Estate Company) — Fri, 12 Sep 2008 10:16:37 -0500

Islamorada Chamber of Commerce
Key Largo Chamber of Commerce
Monroe County
Florida Dep't of Law Enforcement
City of Islamorada
Florida Real Estate Network
Coldwell Banker Schmitt
City Electric
Clerk of the Circuit Court - Monroe County, FL
FEMA Storm Watch
FKAA (Florida Keys Aqueduct Authority)
FKCC (Florida Keys Community College)
Monroe Council of the Arts
Monroe County Cooperative Extension Service
Monroe County School District
Monroe County Sheriff's Office
Monroe County Tax Collector
Monroe County Tourist Development Council (TDC)
National Weather Service Office (Key West)
NOAA Weather
OMI Wastewater Treatment Facility
Southern Building Code Conference International

Key West Citizen
The Keynoter
Miami Herald

2007 Florida Keys and Monroe County Cost of Living

Kip Hoover (Coldwell Banker Schmitt Real Estate Company) — Fri, 12 Sep 2008 10:14:42 -0500

Florida Keys and Monroe County Cost of Living

The cost of living index is based on the composite price of groceries, housing, utilities, transportation, health care, clothing and entertainment.
Cost of living indexes will generally be higher in areas that offer access to beaches, culture, arts and recreation. In addition areas, that offer a wider variety of services such as health and education will run higher due to higher wages, and increased quality of living.

Cost of living indexing explanation
A figure of 100 points is used as an average both for the USA and Florida. For example:
Boise Idaho is ranked at a 99
Boston Mass is rated at 127.60
San Francisco at 187.23
• Statewide, Florida cities come in from a low of 90 and up.
• One way to compare Florida areas to salary requirements
For example-If you were relocating from Portland Oregon (whose rate is 120) to Orlando, and you currently make $50,000 per year, the formula is as follows
• Take the destination index, in this case Orlando-94.2 and divide by Portland’s index-120, then multiply by a salary of $50,000. This will give you a figure of $39,250, which you would be required to make in Orlando and have the same quality of life.

*The Keys and Monroe county top out the state at an average Cost of Living at 160 plus. (this is due to the home price escalation in the Keys). We only have so much land and the area is heavily regulated as to building permits. The result is that It's not going to get cheaper....A tropical paradise is in the same venue as any resort destination area, be it Martha's Vineyard or Sun Valley.

However compared to other areas nationally and given the amenities of the Keys, it is a great place to live, work and play.
(Population Weighted-State Average=100

2007 stats per Sperlings best Places http://www.bestplaces.net/

Boca Raton-154.74
Bradenton-114
Cape Coral-Ft Myers-108.0
Ft Lauderdale-132.0
Fort Walton-Destin-120
Jacksonville metro-94.0
Big Pine Key fl-132.46
Key Largo-146.0
Key West-168.0
Marathon fl-162.06
Miami metro-138.0
Melbourne-92.72
Naples Fl-250.59
Orlando metro-94.0
Palm Bay-84.56
Palm Coast-Flagler-125.01
Panama City-86.35
Pensacola metro-82.0
Sarasota-108.75
Tampa 94.60
St Pete-Clearwater-91.58
Vero-Beach Indian River-122.87
West Palm Beach metro-112.05
(Population Weighted-State Average=100
See national comparisons
Cost of living (100 = nationwide average)

FIRM (Fair Insurance Rates in Monroe County Fl-The Keys)

Kip Hoover (Coldwell Banker Schmitt Real Estate Company) — Fri, 12 Sep 2008 10:07:44 -0500

What is FIRM?

FIRM (Fair Insurance Rates in Monroe) is a grassroots organization formed in February, 2006 comprised entirely of volunteer homeowners and residents who are united to fight against excessive, discriminatory and unaffordable residential, condominium and commercial property insurance rates.

In the first six months after forming, the members of FIRM were able to help repeal a proposed 25% residential windstorm premium increase for Monroe County and went on to further reduce residential rates from Citizens Property Insurance Corporation for Monroe County by over 30%. These reduced rates will remain in effect for Monroe County through December of 2009, another victory FIRM fought for and won during the 2008 Florida legislative session.

FIRM was the first organized group of community activists to bring these windstorm inequities to the attention of the Florida Office of Insurance Regulation; to Florida’s Legislature, Cabinet and Governor; and to the Florida delegation to the U.S. House of Representatives. We have also been instrumental in educating homeowners regarding the insurance mitigation and crediting process.

Our grassroots organization has grown from the original 32 members to over 5,100 active members in less than 15 months and continues to welcome new members. If you are concerned about your residential, condominium or commercial property insurance rates, please join us in our continuing fight to bring fair and equitable rates to the citizens of Florida. FIRM membership is free. We need your support. As our membership numbers continue to grow, so does our influence on future legislative actions that continue to impact our property insurance coverage, deductible levels and rates. Help us to help you. Join FIRM today.

FIRM will continue to fight against excessive, discriminatory property insurance rates by staying active at the legislative level, monitoring initiatives and events that have the potential to impact our rates. We will also continue to support the development of a Federal National Catastrophe Program and/or a Coastal Catastrophe Plan.

Key Largo waterfront condo

Kip Hoover (Coldwell Banker Schmitt Real Estate Company) — Thu, 07 Aug 2008 10:19:01 -0500

BAYFRONT CONDO! PANORAMIC VIEWS OF THE BAY FROM LIVING ROOM, KITCHEN AND MASTER BEDROOM! DEEDED BOAT SLIP! SECURE GATED COMMUNITY WITH POOL, TENNIS COURTS, CLUBHOUSE, BOAT RAMP, DEEP WATER PROTECTED DOCKAGE! UNIT IN MOVE-IN CONDITION. THIS IS WHAT LIVING IN PARADISE IS ALL ABOUT!
Directions: MM 96 BAYSIDE.

545842 Residential Active $898,000

Provided as a courtesy of

Kip Hoover

Coldwell Banker Schmitt Key Largo
Fax #: (888)866-7980
Cellular: (305)731-6080
Toll Free: (877)289-0035 ext. 7526
100430 Overseas Hwy
KEY LARGO,FL 33037
Kip@KipHoover.com
http://www.KipHoover.com

Islamorada Ocean View Condo

Kip Hoover (Coldwell Banker Schmitt Real Estate Company) — Thu, 07 Aug 2008 10:16:42 -0500

Fabulous Ocean views from nearly every room! Huge open patio overlooking ocean and pool area. Expansive views from the open galley kitchen with dual stove-ovens, all stainless appliances, and granite countertops. Secure, gated community. Very private.
Directions: Oceanside, MM 79.9. The Palms of Islamorada.

543285 Residential Active $1,375,000

Provided as a courtesy of

Kip Hoover

Coldwell Banker Schmitt Key Largo
Fax #: (888)866-7980
Cellular: (305)731-6080
Toll Free: (877)289-0035 ext. 7526
100430 Overseas Hwy
KEY LARGO,FL 33037
Kip@KipHoover.com
http://www.KipHoover.com

Key Largo Bayview home

Kip Hoover (Coldwell Banker Schmitt Real Estate Company) — Thu, 07 Aug 2008 10:14:21 -0500

Fabulous Bay Views, gourmet kitchen, stainless appliances, 2 master suites with jacuzzis, whole house sound and video system, premium washer and dryer, nearly 200' of dockage, 16,000 lb boat lift. In ground pool! All the extras! Furnishings negotiable!
Directions: MM 106 Bayside, Turn West onto Lake Surprise Blvd, turn right onto Plantation Road which curves to the left and becomes Big Pine Road. Home is at end of street.

545569 Residential Active $1,475,000

Provided as a courtesy of

Kip Hoover

Coldwell Banker Schmitt Key Largo
Fax #: (888)866-7980
Cellular: (305)731-6080
Toll Free: (877)289-0035 ext. 7526
100430 Overseas Hwy
KEY LARGO,FL 33037
Kip@KipHoover.com
http://www.KipHoover.com

Fl Keys openwater estate

Kip Hoover (Coldwell Banker Schmitt Real Estate Company) — Thu, 07 Aug 2008 10:12:13 -0500

The owner says bring all offers! 9000 SF corner lot, 160 feet of deep water dockage, room for 4 boats with boatlift, davits and fishcleaning station. Home has been beautifully updated featuring a 3rd floor master suite with fireplace, walk-in closets, library and patio overlooking canals. Top of the line appliances, wetbar, screened patio on 2nd floor.

543089 Residential Active $1,675,000

Provided as a courtesy of

Kip Hoover

Coldwell Banker Schmitt Key Largo
Fax #: (888)866-7980
Cellular: (305)731-6080
Toll Free: (877)289-0035 ext. 7526
100430 Overseas Hwy
KEY LARGO,FL 33037
Kip@KipHoover.com
http://www.KipHoover.com

Key Largo waterfront condo

Kip Hoover (Coldwell Banker Schmitt Real Estate Company) — Tue, 08 Jul 2008 12:12:49 -0500

FABULOUS VIEWS OF THE BAY AND CANAL from this large 2 bedroom 2 bath corner unit. With two balconies and lots of glass the views are endless. An open floor plan with a pass through from the kitchen offers a great area for relaxing and entertaining. Deep water dockage is available with easy access to Blackwater Sound and Adams Cut. The community pool, clubhouse and tennis courts are great extras!

List Price:529,000

Provided as a courtesy of

Kip Hoover

Coldwell Banker Schmitt Key Largo
Fax #: (888)866-7980
Cellular: (305)731-6080
Toll Free: (877)289-0035 ext. 7526
100430 Overseas Hwy
KEY LARGO,FL 33037
Kip@KipHoover.com
http://www.KipHoover.com