NAPLES GOLF GUY BLOG

Homes Are More Affordable Today

Homes Are More Affordable Today, Not Less Affordable

Homes are more affordable today than they have been since the 1990’s. There’s a current narrative that owning a home today is less affordable than it has been in the past. The reason some are making this claim is because house prices have substantially increased over the last several years.

It’s not, however, just the price of a home that matters.

Homes, in most cases, are purchased with a mortgage. The current mortgage rate is a major component of the affordability equation. Mortgage rates have fallen by over a full percentage point since December 2018. Another major piece of the affordability equation is a buyer’s income. The median family income has risen by approximately 3% over the last year.

The National Association of Realtors (NAR) releases a monthly Housing Affordability Index. The latest index shows that home affordability is better today than at almost any point over the last 30 years. The index determines how affordable homes are based on the following:

“A Home Affordability Index value of 100 means that a family with the median income has exactly enough income to qualify for a mortgage on a median-priced home. An index of 120 signifies that a family earning the median income has 20 percent more than the level of income needed pay the mortgage on a median-priced home, assuming a 20 percent down payment so that the monthly payment and interest will not exceed 25 percent of this level of income (qualifying income).”

The higher the index, therefore, the more affordable homes are. Here is a graph showing the index since 1990:

Obviously, affordability was better during the housing crash when distressed properties – foreclosures and short sales – sold at major discounts (2009-2015). Outside of that period, however, homes are more affordable today than any other year since 1990, except for 2016.

The report on the index also includes a section that calculates the mortgage payment on a median priced home as a percentage of the median national income. Historically, that percentage is just above 21%. Here are the percentages since June of 2018:

Again, we can see that affordability is much better today than the historical average and has been getting better over the last year and a half.

So, wether you’re thinking about buying your first home or moving up to the home of your dreams, don’t let the false narrative about affordability prevent you from moving forward. From an affordability standpoint, this is one of the best times to buy in the last 30 years.

Southwest Florida Housing Market Insights:

Naples Golf Guy Report

Luxury Golf Community Real Estate Trends

Bottom Line:

If you’re looking for a focused and goal-oriented real estate representative in Naples, Bonita Springs, Estero or Fort Myers who will help you achieve your Real Estate needs, please reach out to us directly. Additionally, if you are looking for a golf community expert or you are considering buying or selling a home, a luxury home, vacation home, golf home or dream home, call us or text us at 239-370-0892 or email Matt at Matt@NaplesGolfGuy.com

About Naples Golf Guy

Contact Matt: Matt@NaplesGolfGuy.com

or at 239-370-0892

January 15th, 2020, Posted by NaplesGolfGuy

Reflection Lakes Home Sold

Fabulous Reflection Lakes Home Sold!

Congratulations to my sellers, this fabulous Reflection Lakes Home Sold today in Naples Florida! Located within convenient distance to downtown Naples, Marco Island and the beaches! This home is nicely appointed with the latest trends and includes stainless appliances, granite counters, tray ceilings, upgraded lights and fixtures, full laundry room with storage, brick paved driveway and lanai and much more. The island kitchen opens up to the family room, great for entertaining and flows perfectly. Amenities include the clubhouse, fitness center, heated resort-style pool, meeting rooms, bocce court, a great way to experience the Florida lifestyle!

Reflection Lakes Home Sold – 14541 Sonoma Blvd. Naples FL 34114 – Sales Price $289,000

More about 14541 Sonoma Blvd in Reflection Lakes

List Price – $289,000
Sold Price – $265,000
Attached Villa
2 Bedrooms plus a Den
2 Bathrooms
1,524 Square Feet
Built in 2015
View on a map…

More about Reflection Lakes

Reflection Lakes is in an ideal location for those who want to be within 15 minutes of downtown Naples or Marco Island. This community offers residents easy and quick access to the beaches, dining and shopping. Additionally, if you are looking for an active lifestyle, the clubhouse includes a state-of-the-art fitness center, card rooms for meeting and activities, aerobics center, billiards, outdoor resort-style heated pool, tennis courts volleyball court as well as basketball courts.

Considering Selling your Home?

If you are looking to sell your Reflection Lakes home or another home in Bonita Springs, Estero, Naples or Ft. Myers we encourage you to work with a Professional Real Estate Agent or REALTOR® who has the experience and knowledge to provide an accurate market comparison so you can determine the right asking price. If you live in a golf community in southwest Florida, you are competing with more than 150 other golf communities. Contact us today to learn how your home or condo stacks up against the competition and how we can position your property to sell quickly and for a fair price.

About Naples Golf Guy

Contact Matt: Matt@NaplesGolfGuy.com

or at 239-370-0892

January 14th, 2020, Posted by NaplesGolfGuy

2020 Luxury Market Forecast

By the end of last year, many homeowners found themselves with more equity than they realized, and at the same time their wages were increasing. When those two factors unite, it can spark homeowners to think about making a move to a larger or more expensive home in the luxury space. That said, now is a perfect opportunity to take a look at the forecast for the 2020 luxury market.

Three Things to Think About in the 2020 Luxury Housing Market

1. Prices

The U.S. economy is strong today, with buying opportunities throughout the luxury end of the market. Thomas Veraguth, Strategist at UBS Global Wealth Management, says in Barrons.com,

“There’s a good link between luxury real estate prices and [economic] growth.”

Available inventory is a key element that can impact home prices. At the upper range, the inventory is greater in comparison to the entry-level market, making moving up to a luxury home a growing reality for many buyers right now.

2. Activity in the Market

With more buying opportunities at the higher end, we should start to see an increase in activity. The same article states,

“Affluent homebuyers will start to come out of the woodwork as they find rising luxury rents less appealing and sellers get even more negotiable on price.”

Buyers looking in the luxury market are taking the opportunity to negotiate on price in a segment where there are more choices, too. According to the Luxury Market Report, homes sold for an average of 96.94% of the list price in December.

Buyers are also getting more for their money with greater purchasing power due to the current low interest rates.

3. Buyers Are Coming Back

Keep in mind, buyers are often sellers too, especially those looking to move up. Homeowners with an entry-level home can take advantage of the inventory shortage at the lower end of the market, thus driving higher sales prices for their current homes. Combined with growing equity in the homes they’re listing, it’s a great time for those who are ready to make a luxury move.

The extra equity and greater purchasing power are bringing many buyers back to the market. The same article mentioned that,

“We’ve already seen buyers who’ve been on the sidelines for two years tread back into the market.”

So, if you’re considering entering the luxury market, 2020 is shaping up to be a great year for those who are ready to make that move. Let’s get together to set your real estate plan for the year.

Southwest Florida Housing Market Insights:

Naples Golf Guy Report

Luxury Golf Community Real Estate Trends

Bottom Line:

About Naples Golf Guy

Contact Matt: Matt@NaplesGolfGuy.com

or at 239-370-0892

January 14th, 2020, Posted by NaplesGolfGuy

Increase Future Wealth

Buying a Home Early Can Significantly Increase Future Wealth

The good news is, our younger generations are strong believers in homeownership which is a way to increase future wealth. According to an Urban Institute study, homeowners who purchase a house before age 35 are better prepared for retirement at age 60.

According to a Freddie Mac survey,

“The dream of homeownership is alive and well within “Generation Z,” the demographic cohort following Millennials.

Our survey…finds that Gen Z views homeownership as an important goal. They estimate that they will attain this goal by the time they turn 30 years old, three years younger than the current median homebuying age (33).”

If these aspiring homeowners purchase at an early age, the Urban Institute study shows the impact it can have.

Based on this data, those who purchased their first homes when they were younger than 25 had an average of $10,000 left on their mortgage at age 60. The 50% of buyers who purchased in their mid-20s and early-30s had close to $50,000 left, but traditionally purchased more expensive homes.

Although the vast majority of Gen Zers want to own a home and are somewhat confident in their future, “In terms of financial awareness, 65% of Gen Z respondents report that they are not confident in their knowledge of the mortgage process.”

So, as the numbers show, you’re not alone. If you want to buy this year but you’re not sure where to start the process, let’s get together to help you understand the best steps to take from here.

Southwest Florida Housing Market Insights:

Naples Golf Guy Report

Luxury Golf Community Real Estate Trends

Bottom Line:

About Naples Golf Guy

Contact Matt: Matt@NaplesGolfGuy.com

or at 239-370-0892

January 13th, 2020, Posted by NaplesGolfGuy

November Continues to Be Strong

November Continues with 250 Plus Real Estate Transactions

According to the latest real estate transactions report, November continues the month with a strong week of sales during the week of November 18th there were 292 Naples Properties Sold.

East Naples moved into the top slot with 73 properties sold. Of the 73 sales, 15 percent vacant lots, 33 percent single family homes and 52 percent were condos.

North Naples fell into the second position with 61 sales compared. North Naples home sales consisted of 10 percent vacant lots, 51 percent were single family homes and 38 percent were condos. The remaining property sold was a mobile home.

And finally, the City of Naples had 30 homes sold for the week of the 18th. Real estate transactions were made up of 7 percent vacant lots, 23 percent single family home sales and 70 percent condos.

In summary, November continues with strong activity based on the number of property sales in the Naples area. Ultimately, real estate transactions for the week of November 21st show properties sold were broken down as follows: 112 condos, 124 single family homes 53 vacant lots and 3 mobile homes sold throughout Collier County.

Naples Real Estate Sales for the week of the 18th Organized by zip code:

City of Naples

34102 – 6 properties sold (2 single family homes and 4 condos)
34103 – 12 properties sold (2 vacant lots, 2 single family homes and 8 condos)
34105 – 12 properties sold (3 single family homes and 9 condos)

North Naples

34109 – 10 properties sold (6 single family homes and 4 condos)
34110 – 16 properties sold (1 mobile home, 9 single family homes and 6 condos)
34119 – 35 properties sold (6 vacant lots, 16 single family homes and 13 condos)

East Naples

34104 – 25 properties sold (1 vacant lot, 13 single family homes and 11 condos)
34112 – 25 properties sold (6 vacant lots, 8 single family homes and 11 condos)
34113 – 23 properties sold (4 vacant lots, 3 single family homes and 16 condos)

Ave Maria and Immokalee

34142 – 9 properties sold (4 vacant lots, 4 single family homes and 1 condo)

Big Cypress

34117 – 9 properties sold (1 vacant lot and 8 single family homes)

Coco River

34108 – 13 properties sold (3 single family homes and 10 condos)

Chokoloskee

34138 – 1 property sold (1 condo)

Corkscrew

34120 – 47 properties sold (21 vacant lots, 23 single family homes and 3 condos)

Eastern Collier County

34114 – 26 properties sold (2 mobile homes 6 vacant lots, 9 single family homes and 9 condos)
34116 – 9 properties sold (1 vacant lot, 6 single family homes and 2 condos)

Marco Island

34145 – 14 properties sold (1 vacant lot, 9 single family homes and 4 condos)

More Information About Naples Real Real Estate Trends:

Collier County Real Estate Transactions Week of Nov. 18th 2019

Naples Golf Guy Report

Luxury Golf Community Real Estate Trends

Begin Your Naples Property Search

So, if you’re ready to begin your search for your Naples home, or a southwest Florida Luxury home or condo, we encourage you to explore our website to find information about communities in the area. If golf is your game, we specialize in golf community real estate and would be happy to help you navigate the more than 150 different golf communities in our area. If you prefer a more direct approach, we will provide a list of properties that meet your criteria and/or communities that meet your needs.

Also, if you are considering new construction, remember the contractor’s real estate agent represents the builder’s best interest, not yours. There is no cost for you to have an agent represent you. In fact, we may be able to help you save money and negotiate for extras which the builder may not let you know about.

Lastly, we will handle all contract negotiations for your property from offer to close!

Considering Selling your home?

Since home sales remain strong in Southwest Florida, now is a good time to consider selling your property. If you are looking to sell a home in Bonita Springs, Estero or Naples, we encourage you to work with a Professional Real Estate Agent or REALTOR® who has the experience and knowledge to provide an accurate market comparison so you can determine the right asking price. If you live in a golf community in southwest Florida, you are competing with more than 150 other golf communities. Contact us today to learn how your home or condo stacks up against the competition and how we can position your property to sell quickly and for a fair price.

Bottom Line:

About Naples Golf Guy

Contact Matt: Matt@NaplesGolfGuy.com

or at 239-370-0892

January 13, 2020, Posted by NaplesGolfGuy

Lely Resort Real Estate

Lely Resort is a fantastic golf community located in Naples, Florida. Lely Resort Real Estate includes a wide variety of property types to appeal to multiple lifestyles. There are single-family homes, villas and condos starting at $149,000 and go up to $1,950,000. Also, Lely Resort is one of the few golf communities still offering new construction homes.

This phenomenal golf community offers the ultimate golfing experience with 3 very unique golf courses and extensive practice facilities. Two of the golf courses are public so you can pay as you play or you can join The Classics which is a private country club. In addition to the golf courses, the community has world-class amenities offering residents a luxury lifestyle which is hard to beat. From a state of art fitness center, spa, community pool, tennis courts, pickleball courts, bocce ball and more. Learn more about Lely Resort…

Lely Resort Homes for Sale

How do I Learn More about Lely?

If you are considering purchasing a property in Lely Resort, contact us today to view homes currently available for sale. Call or text Naples Golf Guy at 239-370-0892 or email us at Matt@NaplesGolfGuy.com.

We specialize in golf community real estate and would be happy to help you learn more about Lely Resort Real Estate options as well as navigate more than 150 different golf communities in our area. It can be a challenge to determine which community is right for you and your family. Let us help be your guide to the various membership options, community demographics and amenities. We will be happy to introduce you to the membership director to learn more about the club as well as other residents who we’ve worked with to buy homes in Lely Resort. Most importantly, we will handle all contract negotiations, help arrange for inspections and ensure your real estate transaction seems effortless.

Lely Resort
8004 Grand Lely Dr.
Naples, FL 34113
239-732-1200

About NaplesGolfGuy, Matthew Klinowski, PA

Contact Matt: Matt@NaplesGolfGuy.com

or at 239-370-0892

December Home Sales

December Home Sales For Southwest Florida

The December home sales report for the week of the 21st for Southern Lee County showed there were 80 properties sold for the week in the Southern Ft. Myers, Estero and Bonita Springs area.

Southern Fort Myers remained in the top position with 37 real estate transactions. Of the 37 properties sold, 24 percent were vacant lots, 11 percent were condos and 65 percent were single family homes. The other properties sold were commercial and mobile homes.

Both Bonita Springs and Estero had 21 real estate transactions. For Bonita Springs of the 21 real estate sales, 14 percent were vacant lots, 48 percent were condos and 29 percent were single family homes. The other properties sold in Bonita were commercial units and mobile homes.

Finally, Estero’s home sales consisted of: 38 percent condos and 57 percent were single family homes. The remaining property sold in Estero was a vacant lot.

In review, based on the real estate transactions report for the week of the 21st, property sales were broken down by the following types in Southwest Florida: 22 condos, 43 single family homes, 13 vacant lots, 1 mobile home and 1 commercial unit.

Weekly December Home Sales for the Week of the 21st – Organized by zip code

Bonita Springs

34134 – 6 properties sold (1 vacant lot, 2 single family home and 3 condos)
34135 – 15 properties sold (1 mobile home, 1 commercial unit, 2 vacant lots, 4 single family homes and 7 condos)

Southern Fort Myers

33912 – 11 properties sold (1 vacant lot, 7 single family homes and 3 condos)
33913 – 19 properties sold (7 vacant lots, 11 single family homes and 1 condo)
33967 – 7 properties sold (1 vacant lot and 6 single family homes)

Estero

33928 – 17 properties sold (1 vacant lot, 11 single family homes and 5 condos)
33967 – 1 property sold (1 single family home)
34134 – 1 property sold (1 condo)
34135 – 2 properties sold (2 condos)

Miromar Lakes

33913 – 1 property sold (1 single family home and 1 condo)

December Real Estate Transactions Detail:

Lee County Real Estate Transactions Week of December 21st 2019

Begin Your Southwest Florida Property Search

So, if you’re ready to begin your search for your southwest Florida Luxury home or condo, explore our website to find information about communities in the area. If golf is your game, we specialize in golf community real estate and we’ll help you navigate more than 150 different golf communities in our area. If you prefer a more direct approach, we will provide a list of properties and communities that meet your needs.

Lastly, we will handle all contract negotiations for your property from offer to close!

Considering Selling Your Home?

If you are looking to sell a home in Bonita Springs, Estero, Naples or Fort Myers we recommend you work with a real estate professional or consultant who has the experience and knowledge to provide an accurate market comparison so you can determine the right asking price. If you live in a golf community in southwest Florida, you are competing with more than 150 other golf communities. Contact us today to learn how your home or condo stacks up against the competition and how we can position your property to sell quickly and for a fair price.

Bottom Line:

If you’re looking for a focused and goal-oriented Realtor in southwest Florida who will help you achieve your Real Estate needs, please reach out to me directly. Additionally, if you are looking for a golf community expert or you are considering buying or selling a home, luxury home, vacation home, golf home, pet-friendly or dream home, call or text 239-370-0892 or email Matt@NaplesGolfGuy.com

About Naples Golf Guy

Contact Matt: Matt@NaplesGolfGuy.com

or at 239-370-0892

January 12th, 2020 Posted by NaplesGolfGuy

2020 Housing Market Insights

Here’s a look at the latest housing market insights from some of the top experts. Experts are forecasting a strong housing market in 2020. So, let’s connect to talk about your homeownership goals for this year.

Southwest Florida Housing Market Insights:

Naples Golf Guy Report

Luxury Golf Community Real Estate Trends

Begin Your Property Search

So, if you are ready to begin searching for your own southwest Florida Luxury home or condo, we encourage you to explore our website to find information about communities in the area. If golf is your game, we specialize in golf community real estate and would be happy to help you navigate the more than 150 different golf communities in our area. If you prefer a more direct approach, we will provide a list of properties that meet your criteria and/or communities that meet your needs.

Lastly, we will handle all contract negotiations for your property from offer to close!

Bottom Line:

About Naples Golf Guy

Contact Matt: Matt@NaplesGolfGuy.com

or at 239-370-0892

January 11th, 2020, Posted by NaplesGolfGuy

Cut Your Energy Costs Day

National Cut Your Energy Costs Day

Today is a day when homeowners explore their options to reduce their energy costs. Here are a few simple changes you can make to easily reduce your energy bill.

Some Highlights:

On January 10^th of each year, “National Cut Your Energy Costs Day” encourages consumers to reduce their overall energy costs by improving home efficiency.
According to Freddie Mac, a typical U.S. family spends $2,200 per year on energy bills. By making energy efficient upgrades, you could reduce your energy bills by up to 30%.
To assess the energy efficiency of your home and see how it measures up, take a moment to check out Home Energy Yardstick to calculate your estimated opportunity. Don’t forget to have your energy bills nearby!

Begin Your Property Search

Lastly, we will handle all contract negotiations for your property from offer to close!

Bottom Line:

About Naples Golf Guy

Contact Matt: Matt@NaplesGolfGuy.com

or at 239-370-0892

January 10th, 2020, Posted by NaplesGolfGuy

Long Line of Buyers

There’s a Long Line of Buyers Waiting for Your House

If you’re following what’s happening in the housing market right now, you know that many people believe the winter months aren’t a good time to sell a home. In reality, the winter months are the best time of year to sell a home in Southwest Florida. As realtor.com Senior Economist George Ratiu recently noted,

“Sellers tend to be more reluctant to list during the colder time of year when the market typically makes a seasonal slowdown.”

However, a recent report by ShowingTime reveals how this year is different. Buyer activity is way up compared to the same time last year. The report explains,

“The nation’s 12.6% growth in home showings compared to 2018 was the most significant jump in buyer traffic during the current four-month streak of year-over-year increases. The West Region saw the greatest growth in activity, with a 23.1% jump – the region’s greatest in the history of the Showing Index.”

The increase has spread across all four regions of the country, as the graph below shows: