The Only Frost-Free Place in the Continental U.S.: Life in the Florida Keys

If you’ve ever wondered whether paradise exists inside the continental United States, look no further than the Florida Keys — the only frost-free region in the Lower 48. Not “mostly frost-free.” Not “once in a while it dips to sweater weather.” Truly frost-free. Our tropical-jungle-meets-island-lifestyle climate is something the rest of the country both admires and envies (especially every January when friends up north are shoveling driveways and we’re debating whether the water is warm enough for a quick snorkel).

Sure, it famously snowed in Miami once, back in January 1977 — just enough flurries to send the city into excited chaos. But down here in the Keys? Not even a flake. Mother Nature draws the line at the Overseas Highway.

Weather You Can Actually Live With

Warm, Reliable Temperatures

The subtropical climate in the Keys is remarkably consistent. Winter daytime temps cruising in the 70s, nights that rarely require more than a light hoodie, and summer warmth that’s offset by those glorious ocean breezes. It’s the kind of weather that makes outdoor living a lifestyle, not a luxury.

Passing Showers? Yep. Lingering Storms? Not Really.

Ask any local and they’ll tell you:
“If you don’t like the weather, wait ten minutes.”

Most of our showers are fast-moving tropical spritzes — little pop-up clouds that briefly rinse the islands and then float off toward Cuba. They’re quick, refreshing, and often followed by sunlight so bright it looks like someone turned the saturation level all the way up.

Rainouts are rare. Picnic plans rarely get canceled. And yes, we all keep a towel in the car… just in case.

Hurricanes: The Reality of Island Living

We won’t sugarcoat it — hurricanes are the one serious weather caution in the Keys. Island living means paying attention every season from June to November.

But here’s the thing:

• Local preparedness is exceptional — Monroe County has some of the most well-practiced emergency plans in the country.

• Forecasting tools get better every year, giving residents and visitors clear guidance well ahead of time.

• Homes are built with hurricanes in mind, especially newer construction with impact windows, reinforced roofs, and elevated elevations.

Hurricane season is something we respect, plan for, and stay educated about… but it doesn’t define our quality of life. The moment November rolls into December, we’re rewarded with the kind of weather winter postcards dream about.

The Keys: Where Enviable Weather is the Norm

Most days in the Florida Keys look like this:

• Water gently lapping the shoreline

• Breezes drifting through coconut palms

• Sunshine bright enough to make you reach for sunglasses before you even open the door

• Evenings cool enough for porch sitting, balcony lounging, and long walks by the canal

It’s the kind of climate that encourages people to live outside — to boat, bike, take sunset cruises, paddleboard after work, or sip a cafecito on the porch with the doors open in January.

Simply put: our weather isn’t just good. It’s a lifestyle. And it’s one that’s nearly impossible to find anywhere else in the continental U.S.

Why This Matters for Buyers and Sellers

For homebuyers, the frost-free charm of the Keys is a huge quality-of-life benefit. For sellers, it’s one of your most powerful talking points — especially for Northern or Midwest buyers dreaming of a “no-more-winter” retirement or second home.

As a long-time Keys local (since 1987!), you already know how to translate that experience into value. This blog post helps future residents picture the life they can have here — warm, sunny, outdoor-centered, and naturally tropical.

 

Why Some Buyers Prefer Seller Financing in the Florida Keys

Buying a home in the Florida Keys isn’t like buying anywhere else. Between our island charm, limited inventory, and unique properties, it’s no surprise that some buyers look for creative ways to make a deal work. One option that’s gaining attention? Seller financing — also called owner financing.

This setup allows the seller to act as the bank, letting the buyer make payments directly to them instead of through a traditional mortgage lender. It’s simple, flexible, and often faster than going through a bank. Here’s why some Keys buyers are choosing this route.

💵 1. Easier Qualification

Many Keys buyers are self-employed, run small businesses, or earn seasonal income. Banks often see that as “inconsistent.” With seller financing, approval depends more on your ability to make payments than on what your tax return says.

Example: A fishing guide with steady charters but fluctuating monthly income could easily qualify with a seller, even if a big bank says no.

 ⏱ 2. Faster Closings

Traditional loans can take weeks. Appraisals, underwriting, and endless paperwork slow everything down. Seller financing can often close in a few days once both sides agree on terms.

Example: A couple selling their home up north might want to move into their new Islamorada house immediately — and seller financing helps them do just that.

 🤝 3. Flexible Terms

Seller financing allows for creativity. Buyers and sellers can set the interest rate, payment schedule, and down payment that work for both sides.

Example: A buyer could start with lower monthly payments and a balloon payment in five years — giving time to refinance later.

 💳 4. A Second Chance for Credit-Challenged Buyers

Life happens — sometimes credit takes a hit. Seller financing gives responsible buyers a chance to rebuild while still moving forward with homeownership.

Example: Someone recovering from a medical bankruptcy but earning steady income could still buy their dream Key Largo cottage.

 🏝 5. Perfect for Unique Properties

Some Keys homes don’t fit the standard mortgage mold — think canal cottages with mixed zoning, or offbeat artist retreats. Traditional lenders may hesitate, but sellers understand the local quirks.

Example: A home with a small attached studio or private dock might raise red flags for big banks — but not for a seller who knows the property’s value firsthand.

 💰 6. Lower Closing Costs

Without bank fees, lender-required inspections, or loan origination costs, closing expenses can drop significantly.

That means more money left over for the fun stuff — like furnishing your tiki porch or getting that first paddleboard.

 🔁 7. A Bridge to Conventional Financing Later

Seller financing doesn’t have to be forever. Many buyers use it as a short-term solution while improving credit or building income history.

Example: A buyer might purchase with a five-year seller-financed note, then refinance through a bank once they’re fully established in the Keys.

 ☀️ The Bottom Line

Seller financing can open doors — literally and figuratively — for buyers who need flexibility, speed, or just a little creative problem-solving. In the Florida Keys, where every property has a story, it’s one more way to make dreams of island living come true.

Properties with possible seller financing

 

Monday’s (Okay, Tuesday’s!) Market Update

Yes, I know it’s Tuesday—but between an early morning and a full day of appointments yesterday, this update got a little island time delay!

Last week brought 74 new listings to the market, offering a little something for everyone—no matter your budget or your Keys dream. I expect we’ll start seeing even more new listings pop up as we roll toward season.

🔗 See the new listings here

As for sales, 28 properties closed last week, including some stunning Key West homes that definitely turned heads.

🔗 See the closed sales here

With more snowbirds heading down to the Keys, we’re likely to see both inventory and sales continue to rise. It’s almost season—and you can feel the energy building!

☀️ Stay tuned for next week’s update, and as always, if you’d like to chat about what’s happening in your neighborhood (or your favorite sandbar), I’m just a call away.

 

First Class Fridays: Port Antigua — Where Sandy Toes Meet Serious Boating

Happy Friday!

This week, we’re setting our sights on Port Antigua, a first-class community in Islamorada that blends laid-back beach vibes with true boating luxury. If you’ve ever dreamed of owning a Keys home that checks every box—private beach, deep-water dockage, and calm canals—this is the one to watch.

A Private Beach… All Yours

Yes, you read that right. Port Antigua homeowners enjoy a private sandy beach—a rare find in the Florida Keys! The community’s bayfront park is a local treasure, featuring swaying palms, tiki huts, picnic tables, and gentle waves lapping at soft white sand. It’s the perfect spot to unwind after a day on the water or gather with friends for a sunset toast.
In the Keys, sandy beaches are scarce. Having one exclusively for residents makes Port Antigua a standout.

Boaters, This Is Your Paradise

Port Antigua isn’t just about looks—it’s built for boating.
Wide, deep canals offer easy access to both the bay and the ocean. The community even has its own private boat ramp, making it simple to launch and go. Whether you’re heading out for a quiet sunset cruise or a deep-sea fishing adventure, you’ll be on open water in minutes via nearby Channel 2 or Channel 5 bridges.
For serious boaters, that convenience is pure gold.

A Community That Cares

Established in 1969, the Port Antigua Property Owners’ Association keeps the neighborhood beautifully maintained and well-run. It’s a deed-restricted community, meaning architectural harmony, well-kept streets, and long-term value. The HOA also maintains the park, boat ramp, and water quality in the canals—proof that this neighborhood takes pride in its piece of paradise.

Location, Location… Lower Matecumbe

Tucked along the bayside of Lower Matecumbe Key (around Mile Marker 74.5), Port Antigua enjoys a serene, residential feel while still being close to Islamorada’s shops, restaurants, and schools. It’s peaceful yet perfectly connected—a hallmark of Upper Keys living.

Real Estate Snapshot

Homes here reflect the premium lifestyle the community offers.
Canal-front homes with private docks and beach access often list in the multi-million-dollar range, with recent values hovering around $2.9 million. It’s a neighborhood where presentation, lifestyle, and location all align—and where properties tend to hold their value beautifully.

Why Port Antigua Is “First Class”

Private sandy beach ✅
Deep-water boating ✅
Tight-knit, deed-restricted community ✅
Gorgeous Islamorada sunsets ✅

Whether you’re buying your dream Keys home or preparing to sell one, Port Antigua offers something truly special—a rare blend of luxury, lifestyle, and location that defines “First Class Fridays.”

Curious to see what's for sale? Click here. 

Thinking of making Port Antigua your next address?
Let’s talk about how to market your home—or find the perfect canal-front retreat to call your own.

Until next time, here’s to another First Class Friday and a weekend full of sun, salt, and sandy feet. ☀️

 

The Turtle Hospital: Healing Flippers and Saving Lives in the Florida Keys

Drive through Marathon and you might spot a white van with bright orange stripes parked near the Old Seven Mile Bridge. That’s no ordinary vehicle — it’s the Turtle Ambulance, part of one of the most heartwarming places in the Keys: The Turtle Hospital.

A Place for Second Chances

The Turtle Hospital opened in 1986 inside a converted motel. Its mission is simple: rescue, heal, and release injured sea turtles. Over the years, the hospital has saved thousands of turtles hurt by boats, tangled in fishing gear, or sick with a virus called fibropapillomatosis — “FP” for short.

Inside, visitors can peek into the hospital’s operating room and meet the “patients” swimming in recovery tanks. Every turtle has a name, a story, and a team of caretakers cheering it on.

The Turtle Ambulance

The hospital’s white ambulance with orange stripes is hard to miss. It’s fitted with tanks and stretchers made just for sea turtles. The staff drives it all over the Keys — and sometimes even to the mainland — to rescue turtles in need. When you see that van heading down U.S. 1, it’s carrying a very special passenger.

Learning While You Visit

The Turtle Hospital isn’t just for sick turtles — it’s also about education and inspiration. Daily tours show how the staff cares for the animals and teach visitors simple ways to help. Small changes, like using reusable bags, cutting fishing lines, and turning off lights during nesting season, make a big difference for sea turtles.

Why It Matters

Every turtle released back into the ocean is a celebration. Locals and visitors often gather to watch — cheering as the turtle slides into the water and swims toward freedom. These moments remind us why caring for our oceans, reefs, and wildlife is so important in the Florida Keys.

Fun Fact: The hospital’s first patients were treated in old motel swimming pools — a creative solution that still inspires visitors today!

Monday Morning Market Update – Florida Keys Real Estate

Another week has wrapped up here in paradise, and the Florida Keys market continues to buzz with activity!

Last week, 75 new properties were listed for sale across the Keys. There’s no shortage of impressive oceanfront estatesthat capture the dream of waterfront living, but there are also some fantastic budget-friendly options on the market. Whether you’re looking for a cozy condo, a townhome with amenities, or a private luxury retreat, there’s something for every lifestyle and price point.

👉 See the new listings here: View New Listings

On the sales side, 33 properties closed last week, showing the same wide range in prices. The highest sale was an incredible canal front estate that sold for $3,275,000 — proof that premium waterfront homes continue to attract strong interest.

👉 See the closed sales here: View Closed Sales

While the Florida Keys are often thought of as a “rich man’s paradise,” the truth is that there are homes available for every buyer — from entry-level condos to luxurious oceanfront estates. The Keys lifestyle is about more than price; it’s about enjoying the sun, the sea, and a community that feels like home.

If you’re thinking about buying or selling, now is a great time to take a closer look at what’s available.

 

Monday Market Update: Your Weekly Look at the Florida Keys Real Estate Scene

Welcome to another Monday Market Update. First, a quick note from me. I was a bit quieter online last week. Physical therapy during my surgery recovery has been a real workout. I am powering through, and I appreciate your patience and support.

Let’s jump into the good stuff.

New Listings: Fresh Homes and Fresh Possibilities

There were 68 new listings across the Keys last week. Prices ranged from $349,000 for a cute condo in Marathon to a breathtaking $15,750,000 open water estate in Lower Matecumbe. It shows that the Keys offer something for almost every budget and dream.

If you want to browse the latest homes on the market, click here.

Sold Listings: What Closed the Deal

We also saw 24 sales wrap up last week. A cozy cottage in Marathon sold for $245,000, while a private waterfront home on exclusive Shark Key reached $4,000,000. Sales like these show that well-priced homes are still moving and buyers are active from Key Largo to Key West.

You can view the closed sales here.

What This Means for You

Whether you are thinking about buying or selling, the market continues to offer real opportunities. Local knowledge and a smart plan make all the difference. That is where I come in. I live here. I work here. I have been helping people move in and move up in the Keys for more than 30 years.

If you are curious what your home might be worth today or want to explore options before the busy winter season ramps up, reach out anytime. I am here to help you make your move with confidence.

 

First Class Friday: Canalfront Living in Crosskey Waterways, Key Largo

Welcome to 614 Santa Anita Lane in Crosskey Waterways, a stunning canalfront home at Mile Marker 103 in Key Largo. This location offers the best of both worlds — an easy mainland commute from Miami-Dade and close proximity to all the shopping, dining, and entertainment that makes Key Largo so special.

Step inside to discover an immaculate, fully remodeled second floor with soaring ceilings, three bedrooms, and two bathrooms. The open-concept kitchen shines with warm wood cabinetry, recessed lighting, and plenty of natural light through impact-resistant windows and doors. A spacious screened patio extends from the living area, offering peaceful views of the pool, dock, and wide turning basin — the perfect spot for morning coffee or sunset cocktails.

But it’s the outdoor living spaces that truly make this home stand out. The backyard oasis features a sparkling private pool and a covered entertainment area complete with a fantastic outdoor bar, comfortable seating area, and a dockside bathroom for convenience. Whether you’re hosting friends for a weekend barbecue or relaxing by the water, this home was built for enjoying the Keys lifestyle.

For boaters, the concrete dock includes a 20,000 lb. boat lift and fish-cleaning station, offering easy access to the ocean or bay via nearby Adams Cut. Built on solid concrete columns and beams, this modular home also includes an elevator shaft ready for future installation.

✨ Beautifully updated and designed for entertaining, this Crosskey Waterways gem perfectly captures the relaxed luxury of life in the Florida Keys.

Click here to see the full listing information and more photos

Listing information provided courtesy of Robert Valenzuela and Century 21 Circle

Discover The Landings of Largo

 If you’re dreaming of a Keys lifestyle that blends comfort, community, and easy access to the water, look no further than The Landings of Largo. This gated community in the heart of the Upper Keys offers everything from cozy garden apartments to spacious townhomes — all surrounded by tropical landscaping and gentle sea breezes.

A Community Built for Relaxation

Life at The Landings of Largo feels like a retreat. The property features two beautiful swimming pools, including a large one beside the clubhouse — a favorite spot for social gatherings and casual get-togethers. Whether you’re enjoying a morning swim or an evening chat with neighbors, it’s the kind of place that invites you to slow down and stay awhile.

For boaters, the community’s private marina and boat ramp make it simple to get out on the water. Drop your boat in and head toward nearby ocean or bay waters — it’s one of the easiest ways to experience the Keys lifestyle right from home.

Variety and Style in Every Building

The Landings isn’t a cookie-cutter community. It’s made up of several buildings, each with its own unique style and floor plan.

• Some homes are charming garden apartments, perfect for those who want a low-maintenance space with easy access to community amenities.

• Others are spacious townhome-style residences with covered parking and multiple levels of living space.

A few of the townhome units even overlook a peaceful pond and mangroves, offering tranquil views that stretch all the way out toward the water. It’s hard to beat sipping your morning coffee while watching the herons glide by.

A Place Close to My Heart

The Landings of Largo isn’t just another beautiful Upper Keys community — it’s personal for me. This is where I cut my teeth as a budding Realtor, learning the ins and outs of Keys real estate and getting to know the incredible people who call this area home. Every time I visit, I’m reminded why I fell in love with this career — and with this community.

Living in the Upper Keys

When you live at The Landings, you’re close to everything that makes the Keys special:

• Boating and fishing just minutes from your door.

• Local dining and shops in nearby Tavernier and Key Largo.

• Top-rated schools and conveniences within easy reach.

• And of course, the laid-back island lifestyle that draws so many to the Florida Keys.

Explore Available Homes

The Landings of Largo offers a range of home styles and price points. You can view all current listings right here:
👉 See available units at The Landings of Largo

Whether you’re searching for a weekend getaway, a full-time residence, or an investment in paradise, The Landings offers a perfect mix of comfort, convenience, and coastal charm.

 

Should I Pay Off My Mortgage or Invest the Money Instead? My Real-Life Dilemma

This isn’t a theoretical question — it’s my real-life decision.

I owe about $108,000 on my home — which is worth roughly $650,000 — at a 4.875% interest rate. My monthly payment is $837, and if I keep making those payments, my last one will be due on December 1, 2040.

But lately, I’ve been wondering:
Would it make more sense to pay off the mortgage right now, and then take that $837 each month and invest it instead of sending it to the bank?

Let’s look at both sides.

🏠 Option A: Keep the Mortgage

If I keep things as they are, I’ll pay off the home in 15 years and pay around $42,000 in interest by the end.

That’s not terrible, but it’s still money that could be working for me elsewhere.

Pros:

• I keep my savings intact for emergencies.

• I benefit from inflation over time (my payment stays the same even as prices rise).

• I retain flexibility with my cash.

Cons:

• I’ll still be paying $837 every month until 2040.

• I’ll pay tens of thousands in interest to the bank.

• The debt — even manageable — still hangs over my head.

💸 Option B: Pay Off the Mortgage Now and Invest the $837 Monthly

Now imagine this: the mortgage is gone. No more payments. And instead of sending $837 to the bank each month, I invest it — steadily, month after month — for the same 15 years.

Here’s what that might look like based on different average annual returns:

Scenario	Average Annual Return	Total After 15 Years (Investing $837/month)
Conservative	4%	$181,000
Moderate	5%	$225,000
Optimistic	6%	$243,000
Aggressive	7%	$264,000

That’s the potential of compound growth — even small, steady investments can snowball over time.

Of course, markets can fluctuate, and returns aren’t guaranteed. But history shows that long-term investing tends to outperform the cost of most fixed-rate mortgages — especially ones below 5%.

⚖️ Comparing the Two Paths

Pay Off the Mortgage Now	Invest the $837 Monthly
Guaranteed 4.875% “return”	Potential 6–7% long-term return
Complete peace of mind — no debt	More financial growth potential
Frees up $837/month immediately	Keeps the mortgage until 2040
Simplifies retirement and lowers expenses	Keeps cash more flexible and liquid

 

🧭 The Bottom Line

Financially, investing the $837 each month could lead to greater long-term gains — assuming the market performs well.

Emotionally and practically, though, paying off the mortgage offers a guaranteed return, immediate relief, and flexibility with future cash flow.

✍️ Tracy’s Take: Why I’m Leaning Toward Paying It Off

For me, peace of mind carries real value. Knowing my home is completely mine — no bank, no payment, no balance — feels like true financial freedom.

Once that monthly $837 isn’t going to the mortgage, I can redirect it however I choose:

• Invest it each month and watch it grow.

• Use it for home improvements that boost comfort and value.

• Or simply enjoy having a little more breathing room in my budget.

It’s not just about numbers — it’s about freedom, flexibility, and the feeling of owning my home outright. And that, to me, is worth every penny.

 

Monday Morning Market Update

Good morning, everyone!

First, I want to take a moment to thank my readers for their patience during my short break last week. I’ve been recovering from surgery and am happy to be back with your weekly look at what’s happening in the Florida Keys real estate market.

This week’s update comes in two parts — new listings and recent sales — so let’s dive right in.

🏡 New Listings

There were 65 new listings added to the MLS this past week, with prices ranging from $319,000 to $3,500,000.
It’s worth noting that a few of these “new” listings are actually properties that were re-entered into the MLS to appear fresh — a common tactic in our market.

Among the standout new entries is a rare listing on coveted Cook’s Island, a true Keys gem for those who crave privacy and waterfront tranquility.

Click here to see the new listings

💰 Recent Sales

On the sales side, we saw 24 closings last week. The highlight? An absolutely stunning oceanfront estate purchased by Barstool Sports founder Dave Portnoy for a record-setting $27,750,000.
This sale is not only headline-worthy but also a strong indicator of continued demand for ultra-luxury properties throughout the Keys.

Click here to see the recent sales

📊 Wrapping It Up

Overall, inventory remains active, with a healthy mix of new and luxury listings making waves across the islands. Whether you’re buying, selling, or just keeping an eye on market trends, the Florida Keys continue to offer some of the most desirable real estate in the country.

 

First Class Fridays: Spotlight on Key Haven

When I first moved to the Keys back in 1987, the very first place I called home was Key Haven. Maybe that’s why this community has always held a special place in my heart. Tucked just outside of Key West, Key Haven has long been one of the most desirable neighborhoods in the Lower Keys—and for good reason.

Why Key Haven is So Special

Key Haven blends the best of island living with convenience. Imagine stepping out your back door and being just minutes from open water—perfect for boaters, anglers, and anyone who loves the sea breeze. At the same time, you’re only a short drive to downtown Key West, which means you can enjoy all the dining, shopping, and cultural experiences without sacrificing peace and quiet at home.

The Community Feel

One of the things I loved most when I lived there was the sense of neighborhood. Key Haven is made up of waterfront and dry lot homes, many with direct boating access. You’ll see neighbors out walking dogs, kids riding bikes, and folks waving as they head out for a sunset cruise. It’s upscale yet laid-back—the quintessential Keys lifestyle.

A Timeless Choice

Even decades later, Key Haven continues to be in high demand. The combination of its location, waterfront opportunities, and community charm makes it timeless. For anyone looking to be close to Key West but still enjoy a little more space and tranquility, Key Haven checks all the boxes.

For me, it will always be more than just a neighborhood—it’s where my Keys story began. 💛

Take a look at what's available in this great Keys community.

 

Florida Keys Weather: Frost-Free, Fun, and a Little Feisty

One of the biggest reasons people love the Florida Keys? The weather. It’s the stuff vacation dreams are made of.

No Frost Allowed

Here’s a fun fact: the Keys are the only frost-free spot in the continental U.S. That means no scraping ice off windshields, no frozen toes, and no dead tropical plants. Your flip-flops are safe all year long.

Sunshine on Speed Dial

Most days, the forecast reads something like this: “Sunny with a chance of paradise.” Warm breezes and colorful sunsets are pretty much our brand. Locals know—it’s tough to stay grumpy when the ocean sparkles like that.

But Hold the Halo

Now, let’s be real. It’s not always perfection. Summers can feel like you’re walking through soup. Afternoon storms show up out of nowhere, dump a bucket of rain, and then disappear like nothing happened. And yes, humidity has a permanent residence here.

Hurricanes and Other Hazards

We can’t skip the big one—hurricane season. From June to November, locals keep a weather eye on the tropics. Most storms pass us by, but preparedness is part of the Keys lifestyle. Think of it as island survival skills 101.

Worth the Trade

So, what do we get in return? No frost. No shoveling snow. No gray, endless winters. Instead, we get sunshine, salty breezes, and weather that keeps us outdoors almost every day of the year. Sure, the Keys throw in a little drama now and then—but hey, that’s island life.