What to do in Naples? Head out to Keeywadin Island

A regular question I get from friends, family as well as people looking to move to the area is "What is there to do in Naples?". As I revealed in my last post - LOTS! This past Friday, we took advantage of our friends boat rental, and took a day trip out to Keeywadin Island.

Even if you do not have a boat or know someone with access to one, it is very simple in this area to rent a boat. If you decide that you want to be living down here for an extended period of time during the year, you can also join one of the several boat clubs in the area. That day, we were using a boat from Naples Bay Resort.

The boat was a simple deck boat and was very clean and maintained. Before leaving we were informed of all rules and proper procedure expected while on the boat. (Also informing us that we could not go past a certain point out into the Gulf of Mexico)

Once out of the marina, you are still going at a very slow pace (no wake, especially this time of year because of our treasured manatees), however, this gives you time to take in all of the amazing homes that are built in our area. With different architecture styles, you can see everything from an old Florida ranch style to very popular contemporary homes to a Mediterranean masterpiece.

Once you are done marveling at the amazing homes, you are finally on your way, and if the beautiful surroundings that nature offers you aren't enough to get you excited about Naples, I don't know what is! It does take about 45 minutes from the marina to Keeywadin, so you definitely have time to smell that amazing Gulf Breeze and take in the beauty that isn't found until you get on a boat.

After we pulled up to Keeywadin and anchored, you can't help but notice the food vendors that are anchored there as well...since we only packed snacks, it was a GREAT surprise to see them!

When you visit us here in Naples, I would highly recommend taking a day (or just a morning) and venturing down to this amazing island, to take in some sights not able to be seen on land.

What to do in Naples?? Visit the Naples Botanical Gardens!

One question I often get when people are trying to make the decision to move to Naples is "What is there to do in Naples other than golf or go to the beach"? The answer is LOTS! This blog will be devoted to the beautiful Naples Botanical Gardens.

Of course the fabulous beaches and the world class golf courses in the Southwest Florida are what draw many people to our area, but we have so much more to offer if you look around. 

One of our favorite places to go is the spectacular Naples Botanical Gardens is open year round, but really any time is a great time to visit. The Garden usually has a few events planned during the week, including weekly times for the dogs to come and visit the Garden! They also have children's programs, concerts, and healthy living series. Click here to visit their calendar.

The Gardens are tucked away, but just minutes from downtown Naples, and some of the most desirable real estate in the area. As soon as you walk in, a calm washes over you as you step away from the hustle and bustle of the area. The various gardens inside include Caribbean, Florida, Brazilian, and Asian Gardens. The "artwork" that is scattered around the Gardens in the form of mosaics, pots, buildings and water features makes you want to keep exploring and finding more - which you will always see something new with each visit. And as an added bonus there is a wonderful Children's Garden that provides an endless stream of entertainment for the younger guests (don't forget the bathing suits since there is a splash pad!).

Here is a link to our video so you can see a bit more of the Gardens...until then enjoy these beautiful stills from our visit! 

Hunters Ridge Golf Properties

Hunters Ridge Golf and C.C. Golf Properties


Hunters Ridge Golf and C.C., a long respected golf community in Bonita Springs is still thriving and better than ever.  Through years of exceptional financial stability, the community has now expanded and renovated the main clubhouse.  The renovation and expansion includes the kitchen, which will now be more efficient in preparation and serving.  Also the size of the main dining room has been extended and an updated outdoor dining area.  This along with the newly renovated grill room, the club looks exceptional.

Two new offerings in Hunters Ridge Golf and C.C. is sure to catch the eye of those looking to move to the community, or merely relocate within the community.  Here you will get a look at two of the most popular products in Hunters Ridge, the attached villa and the single family pool home.

12741 Hunters Ridge Dr.

3 bedroom, 2 bath single family home with pool and spa.

Full Golf Membership transfers to the new owner.

See the full video and tour at: http://www.239listing.com/property-florida/12741-hunters-ridge-dr-bonita-springs-house-sale

28906 Marsh Elder Ct.

3 bedroom, 2 bath attached villa with 2 car garage.

Highly desirable Charter Golf Membership transfers to new owner.

See the full video and tour at : http://www.239listing.com/property-florida/28906-marsh-elder-ct-bonita-springs-house-sale

For more information on these prime properties, visit the tours above and call 239-494-2563 for showings.


Submitted by:
+Naples Golf and Real Estate | NaplesGolfLiving.com | Phillip M. Rigsby 
Phillip M. Rigsby, Realtor
Premiere Plus Realty Co.
239-494-2563

Phillip specializes in Golf Properties in the Naples and Bonita Springs areas.  Contact him today for buying and selling in golf communities.

Twin Eagles Flying High in Naples Golf Home arena

Twin Eagles Flying High In Naples Golf Home Arena

Sitting on the back of the clubhouse veranda overlooking the 18th hole on the Talon Course, you can see why this is one of the Champion's Tour's favorite stop in their season.

Atmosphere at Twin Eagles is amazing.  Set on the outskirts of beautiful Naples, FL. this is a golfer's paradise.  It would be strange to play a round of golf on either of the two Championship golf courses (Talon or Eagle courses) and not see deer or turkey trotting around.  The enclave is built for those who want peaceful and quiet living just outside of town with the convenience to get there in a few short minutes.  Dining and entertainment await in the traditional Naples spots and then return home to see the big beautiful sky filled with stars and nothing to hear but a gentle breeze and crickets.

The addition of the Tiki Bar and resort style pool last Season has really made the social scene step up.  The informal and scheduled gatherings find new members and old friends having a great time meeting and starting new relationships.

The new 6,430 square foot fitness center is designed to architecturally mirror the grand clubhouse and is outfitted with the finest state of the art equipment and spa services.

Growing fast in popularity is the Eagle Course which hosted the CME Titleholders event on the LPGA tour in 2012.  The course was redesigned and was named by Golf Magazine as "Best New US Private Course of The Year for 2012"!  The original Talon course and now the highly acclaimed Eagle course will have a total membership of 600 members.  With an average of 300 members per course the true private membership experience will be preserved.

Since Ronto Group's acquiring of the remaining land and taking on the management of Twin Eagles, new construction has soared.  The club is showing evidence that it's taking the shape of it's majestic potential.   

"Since 1967, The Ronto Group has pursued a commitment to excellence in residential, commercial, and retail projects from Toronto to the Tropics. With its U.S. headquarters in Naples, The Ronto Group has become internationally recognized for land development and high-rise construction, throughout Southwest Florida. Every Ronto Group project demonstrates the high standards of building that we pride ourselves on, and our continual ability to create communities that define the lifestyle sought by our clientele."  

“Things are hopping here,” said Van Osborne, Sales manager, “several families have bought on their first visit to avoid the possibility of losing their first homesite choice to another buyer.”

Builders onsite include Lennar, Minto, Stock Development, Pulte, Divco and Arthur Rutenberg.  Brad Ackerman of Lennar Homes at Twin Eagles tells me,"Twin Eagles presents an unmatched golf and home value for those seeking a luxurious lifestyle. Ronto has done a phenomenal job of not only bringing the community back, but to an entirely new level. Where else can you find a free membership to two PGA caliber golf courses and a loaded single family home for under $500,000? Only at Lennar at Twin Eagles."

New homes in Twin Eagles range from coach homes in the $300k's to Estate homes of $2M+.  Full Golf Membership is included with the purchase of any new home product.

Being a new resident and Golf real estate specialist, I am so excited to present to you Twin Eagles in Naples.  Visit the community site at TwinEagles.com and our Twin Eagles real estate website promoting resale properties, new construction and the one of a kind lifestyle, www.TwinEaglesGolfHomes.com

Contact me today to learn more.  You have to see it to believe it.

Twin Eagles Community Video

Phillip M. Rigsby

Naples Golf Group

Premiere Plus Realty Co.

370 12th Ave. S. Suite 101

Naples, FL. 34102

239.494.2563 mobile

www.NaplesGolfGroup.com

+Naples Golf and Real Estate | Naples Golf Group.com | Phillip M. Rigsby 

Some Like it Hot (well...mild) - In Naples!

Some Like it Hot (well...mild) - In Naples!

Welcome to summer time in Naples, FL.  In the local's opinions, this time of year is a treasured secret.  As most people are familiar with Florida's seasonal visitors and residents, the winter "season" is the most sought after.  The reason for this is quite simple, it is very warm and relaxing while most of America, Canada, and Europe is struggling with bitter cold.

Once the snow thaws and the temperatures start to rise, most people leave for their summer residences with a perception of Florida being even that much warmer in the summer.

We hear all of the time, "Isn't it burning hot in Naples in the summer?"  And the response is, "No."  There is a sea breeze blowing, and yes, it is warmer than our winter, but even cooler than many spots in the U.S. during summer.  Here's an example of our high temperatures throughout the year:

Naples Weather Southwest Florida is a tropical paradise. Warm temperatures, balmy breezes, sunny skies and an occasional shower are the norm for Naples. The Gulf Water temperature ranges from the mid 60's January through March and up into the mid 80's from June through September. Southwest Florida's average air temperature is 77 degrees. Average Climate, Rainfall and Gulf Temperature Month Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec High 77 76 82 86 88 90 91 92 91 87 83 78 Low 53 52 57 61 66 70 72 72 72 66 60 55 Rainfall (inches) 1.9 2.0 2.3 1.7 4.5 7.8 8.0 8.5 9.2 4.0 1.2 1.4 Gulf Water Temp (Fahrenheit) 66 66 71 77 82 86 87 87 86 81 73 68 *Weather chart provided by http://www.naples-florida.com/weather.htm What I would like to share with you at this point is that the weather in summer is not what you would perceive of a climate that yields a high of 77* in January. This time of year you will see a lot of the local businesses doing their necessary maintenance while there is the least amont of people in town.  You will see the golf courses doing their greens aerification practices, and the high blooming, high maintenance flowers might be out of the ground.  But if you can look past that and find the courses with greens that are healed from aerification, (just call around to golf courses and ask if they've aerated their greens in the last two weeks as it takes a couple weeks to heal) you will find a spectacular hidden gem.  Naples in summer! Golf rates, hotel rates, and some attractions are at lower rates in summer.  You will be surprised at how easy it is to get into you favorite restaurant this time of year too!  Going to a movie?  You might only have 3 or 4 other couples in the theatre with you.  Does this description of privacy and all that you expect from Naples sound good?  Well come on down!  You're the next to discover what you are missing in a Naples summer. That's it for now.  Any questions about the beautiful area?  Just give me a call or email.  Look forward to seeing you out there. P.S.  Summer sales...  that's all I'm going to say...  This blog presented by: +Naples Golf and Real Estate - Phillip M. Rigsby +Phillip M. Rigsby Premiere Plus Realty Co. 370 12th Ave S. Suite 101 Naples, FL. 34102 239.494.2563 mobile email:   phillip@phillipmrigsby.com +Homeadverts.com +Rightmove +Rightmove Overseas +Canada Buy South Real Estate Network www.NaplesGolfAndRealEstate.com www.NaplesTime.com

5 Reasons to be in Naples before "Season"

5 Reasons to be in Naples, FL. before "Season"

There are so many reasons to be in Naples, FL before next season, but I am going to break it down to the top 5.  This is not an easy task because there are so many "tastes" that comprise the Naples area landscape.  Tastes in cuisine, tastes in hobbies, tastes in fashion, or living accommodation.

First it's important for me to define what "season" is in southwest Florida.  We take it for granted that others would immediately know what our definition is for this special time of year.  Our "season" could be considered that late part of a year, maybe November/December, then reaching into the next year until after Easter.  The "high season" is considered to be January, February, March and most of April.  This is when most people desire that sunshine and warm breeze of Naples versus what you could find about anywhere else that time of year.  This is when there is a premium on hotel vacancies, rental vacancies, and tee times on the golf courses.  Definitely this is the time of the year when it's evident that people know to "fly south for the winter".

Now here are the top 5 reasons to be in Naples, FL before next season:

    1.  Let's start with the obvious.  Sun, warm breezes, sand and surf.  The pride taken by Naples residents and the city government, shows that it's proud to be the crown jewel of Florida.  The city is clean, well maintained and full of exuberance. 

     2.  Smart business owners know this is the time of year to gear up for the best shopping crowds that they will see all year.  So you will find the latest styles, and most selection.  You will also find items unique to the area that you might not see in your own area of the country or world.  *Always look for the end-of-season sales as Easter approches.

     3.  The season is when the Arts really shine.  The Naples Philharmonic and other performances are at capacity with the best line-ups during season.  You will see a lot of live music performance and festivals.  The Naples Film Festival in November (coming in May-Latin America Film Fest) is also a great time, with a whole week of film performance and charity events revolving around this buzzing event.  Learn more about Art, Food, Music, and other festivals at websites like these:

http://www.naplesfilmfest.com/

http://thephil.org/

https://www.naplesart.org/

http://www.fifthavenuesouth.com/calendar-of-events/

     4.  Golf courses are in top notch condition, and events are here to enjoy.  The majority of golf course maintenance is done during the summer when the least amount of residents are in the area.  This leads up to the conditioning and refining of the courses for our season.  Professional golf events are also a favorite for our residents to attend starting with the CME Titleholder's, which is the LPGA's season ending event to recognize those who excelled during their season, also with the largest prize purse.  Greg Norman's Franklin Templeton Shootout is a fun event comprised of two man teams competing in different formats and is held at Greg Norman's designed Tiburon Golf Club.  The Ritz Carlton golf lodge is located on site at Tiburon  (Naples has two Ritz Carlton hotels, the other is on Vanderbilt Beach).  Finally in February, the Champions Tour Ace Group Classic event is held at the upscale Club at Twin Eagles.  This is a Jack Nicklaus course that is one of the tour's favorite stops.
Check out these golf links:

http://naplesgolfandrealestate.com/golf/index.htm

http://www.lpga.com/golf/tournaments/lpga/cme-group-titleholders.aspx

http://www.franklintempletonshootout.com/

http://www.theacegroupclassic.com/

     5.  The Naples real estate market is on a rapid increase.  This desirable place in the sun, that offers all of the above mentioned and much more is where many are finding the best place to invest their money.  We have enjoyed an 18% home value increase from March 2012 to March 2013.  Inventory is low, causing prices to rise and new construction homes/developments to pop up like dandelions.  We are noticing and working with more and more foreign investors and looking forward to more relationships like these.  

I hope this has revealed some about the Naples "season" and why you should make it your home or second home before next season.  Be here to enjoy it with us next year.  We'll be happy to help you find the perfect location whether it's golf, beach or in between!  See you soon.


Written by 
+Naples Golf and Real Estate - Phillip M. Rigsby 
+Phillip M. Rigsby 

Premiere Plus Realty Co.
370 12th Ave. South Suite 101
Naples, FL. 34102
239.494.2563 mobile
phillip@phillipmrigsby.com

Naples, Florida area Buyers leaping off the fence!

Naples Florida area Buyers leaping off the fence!

Where:  Naples, FL. area

When:  Winter/Spring 2013

Who:  Buyers waiting for evidence

Why:  Because the time is right...

It's March 1st today, can you believe it?  Wow, heading toward putting the first quarter in the books for 2013.  Seems like we were just toasting the New Year in...  For those of us in the Real Estate arena in the Naples, Bonita Springs, Marco Island and Estero areas, have you used all of your Visine yet?  Early mornings and late nights showing, contracting and burning retinas at the computer screen, never felt so good.  Buyers are wanting their Sunshine home, and they want it NOW.  Evidence shows that we are continuing to run low on homes in inventory and the prices are continuing to climb.  Each report from our local Boards of Realtors shows us that these statistics are being noticed by potential Buyers.  It has caused those who have been waiting for evidence and confidence to jump off the fence and start enjoying their home, or investing and putting that home in a rental pool.

This evidence shown us that prices of two years ago are gone as we see them starting to rise.  Not many clairvoyants in the real estate buying game had the confidence to go all in, or in at all in that bottomed out time period, but those who did are feeling good now.  There is good news though... there is still time to have your place in the sun at a great price relative to what they will be in the coming months.  Better later than too late, is one way of thinking about it.  Feeling good about seeing the evidence and still making a good investment; nothing wrong with that...  I am seeing a lot of smiling faces ready for their home and taking advantage of it now.  Every real estate professional in the area is telling the same story.

Looking forward to speaking with you soon.  And if you are considering selling your home, for goodness sake, give me a call!  Inventory is low and I would love to sell your home quickly for you.  Now I am off to soak my eyes and keep my phone on vibrate for you to call.

Happy March 1st everyone!  Hope you are warm and safe with blessings coming your way.

Take Care!

Written By: +Naples Golf and Real Estate - Phillip M. Rigsby 

Phillip M. Rigsby, Realtor

Premiere Plus Realty Co.

Naples, FL.
239.494.2563 mobile

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The Red Coats are coming... to Naples!

The Red Coats are coming... to Naples!

Foreign investors are taking the area by storm

What: Foreign home Buyers

Where:  Naples, FL. area

When:  Now

This is a great time to stake claim to your piece of paradise, and the Brits aren't waiting. Now, not only are the foreign investors from the UK (though it made for a better title...), but also from all of Europe, Canada, and South America.  

RightMove Overseas - Naples, FL. article

Working with RightMove Overseas clients, I realize some interesting facts:

1. 2 out of 3 find their property destination while on holiday.
2. But 7% will buy without ever seeing the area.
3. Buyers from over 100 different countries trust and use RightMove.
4. 45% of Buyers take under six months to find, buy and move into their property.
5. 65% of Buyers find their Overseas agent online.

And this is why we are Naples, Florida's (Collier County) exclusive listing agent for +Rightmove Overseas .  We are very excited about this premiere relationship and what the future holds for our new residents.

Just today we were pleasantly surprised to be notified of a nice article about our company written by +Lyndsey Kidd of +Homeadverts .  This is an honor and I look forward to continuing to list properties on their international site, and help their Buyers.  These relationships are helping it become easier to streamline the buying process for international Buyers and those who become ready to Sell in Florida.

This information is also ULTRA IMPORTANT FOR AMERICAN SELLERs in the Naples area.  You must reach this fast growing segment with your listing, and we are ahead of the curve in this field.

Homeadverts article on Phillip M. Rigsby and Naples, FL.

Viewings are booking quickly, but our team is looking forward to scheduling you in advance of your trip and aiding you with suggestions from lodging, to dining, shopping and entertainment.  Bring your golf clubs, sun gear and smile.  We are happy to see you!

by +Naples Golf and Real Estate - Phillip M. Rigsby 

Premiere Plus Realty Co.

Naples, FL.

239-494-2563

phillip@phillipmrigsby.com

www.OnlyInNaples.com

Search for Naples area homes NOW. Click Here!

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Naples FL. Real Estate Market Report Jan 2013

Naples FL. Real Estate Market Report Jan 2013

2012 MEDIAN CLOSED PRICE INCREASED 17 PERCENT 

Where: Naples, FL. (Collier County)

When:  January 2013

Fabulous news keeps coming from one of the prettiest places in the world.  Naples, FL.'s housing market is setting the standard.  With the most recent Naples Area Board of Realtors' report, we are seeing the median price for home sales increasing 17% in 2012.

This is obviously fantastic news.  I remember just last April, reporting that Dr. Lawrence Yun, Chief Economist of the National Association of REALTORS®, predicted a 10 percent increase in the overall median price by the end of 2012.  Many were skeptical when I told them this news.  And I have to admit, I was optimistic, but seeing where we had been in recent times, 10% seemed to be a lot...  We have seen the momentum starting to build, kept the faith, and joined with Buyers and Sellers on this endeavor of happiness making. It is a pleasure to report that the Naples real estate market improved beyond expectations for 2012.  And now 2013 has started off with a bang.  Many foreign investors are wanting a part of the action and a piece of this sunny paradise.  We see it everyday here in the Naples area.  My business on RightMove Overseas is really buzzing as those who dream of a tropical climate with the character and luxury of Naples are seeing the great affordability before prices rebound even more.

Another real estate industry article shows Naples as being in the top 10 Best Housing Markets through 2016.  This is great news for everyone in the area, AND those that have been tip toeing the fence as to whether to pack their swim suit, golf clubs, sunglasses and become a proud new home owner in the sun.

We are looking forward to welcoming you, talk to you soon!

By Phillip M. Rigsby

Click here for the Latest NABOR Market Report

Phillip M. Rigsby
Realtor and Naples Referral Gent
Premiere Plus Realty Co.
Naples, FL.
239.494.2563 mobile
www.NaplesGolfAndRealEstate.com

Canada Buy South- Exclusive Naples, FL. agent profile

RightMove Overseas- Exclusive Naples, FL. agent profile

Naples Golf and Real Estate off to a furious start in 2013

Seems like 2012 was a blur and you have to stop and remember the moments and wonder if that was really 2012 or maybe even 2011?  Each of our lives held different experiences that we encountered over this past year.  Some of these were personal or professional successes, failures (or appeared failures on the surface), and learning experiences.  And since there is no substitute for experience, all of these show positive results.

2013, I feel will be a great year to put that experience into play and pay it forward.  Learn from your mistakes and strengthen your resolve. Share your experiences with those who can learn and take comfort from what wisdom you've been blessed with.  You never know who might gain from your prospective.

So that is my quick quip for starting out the New Year and I wish the best to you and yours for 2013.  A New Year is a great time to start fresh, learn from previous years, and improve your life and those around you.  As it's been said, "I forget the past and strain toward the future".  Good words to live by.  

Looking forward to knowing you better in 2013, and drop a line anytime. Whether it's about real estate, golf, the weather, or your bet on if Punxsutawney Phil will see his shadow on Groundhog Day, who care? Would love to hear what's going on around the world and in Naples!

Check out my Google+ business page and website at the links below.
+Naples Golf and Real Estate - Phillip M. Rigsby 
Naples Golf and Real Estate's website
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