Hemingway’s Six-Toed Cats: The Quirky Heart of a Key West Sanctuary

In the middle of Key West’s lively bars and music, there’s a place that feels calm, cool, and almost timeless. It’s the Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum, a quiet island of shade and stories. Many visitors come for Hemingway’s writing history. Most stay, though, for the cats — especially the ones with six toes.

A Peaceful Place with a Wild Past

Hemingway moved into the Spanish Colonial house in the 1930s. It sits on one of the highest points in Key West, which surprises a lot of people. The home is bright, airy, and full of the author’s old treasures. Even with tourists walking through, the place feels relaxed. The gardens, the palms, and the cats all seem to know this house was made for slow afternoons.

The Famous Six-Toed Cats

Most people hear about the cats before they ever visit. Today, around 60 felines live on the property. Many of them have an extra toe, thanks to Snowball, a white polydactyl cat a sea captain gave to Hemingway. The trait stayed in the family line, so you’ll see big paws everywhere — napping on porches, posing on benches, and ruling the yard like they own it.

The staff cares for each cat like a tiny VIP. Every cat has a name, from Audrey Hepburn to Harry Truman. And yes, every single one is allowed to wander the grounds exactly as it pleases.

The Legendary Pool

Behind the house sits the famous swimming pool, and it comes with a story only Key West could pull off. Built in 1938, it cost $20,000 — an eye-popping amount at the time. Hemingway once joked that it cost him his last cent, and he pressed a penny into the still-wet cement. You can still see it there today.

The pool glows bright blue in the Florida sun, and it adds to the calm feel of the property. Even with crowds, it feels like a quiet escape from the busier parts of Old Town.

Why the House Still Matters

The Hemingway Home isn’t only a museum. It’s a look into island life in the 1930s. It’s a place where history is alive, where cats have personalities, and where visitors slow down for a moment before heading back into the bustle of Duval Street.

If you love Key West’s mix of charm, humor, and odd little surprises, this spot brings all of it together.

Fun Fact: The cats wander the grounds with complete freedom, but the museum keeps exact records of every pawed resident — family trees and all!

 

Seven Palms Cove: Luxury Living Returns to Summerland Key (And So Do a Few Memories!)

Every once in a while, a new development pops up in the Florida Keys that makes you stop, stare, and say, “Well… that’s going to be something special.”

Seven Palms Cove on Summerland Key is exactly that.

Maybe I’m a little sentimental, but this one hits close to home—literally. Years ago, I lived on Summerland Key, and my family used to keep a little Hobie Cat at this exact spot. We’d launch it right where this new high-end community is now taking shape. Back then, the land was humble and quiet, with just the sound of the breeze and the excitement of getting out on the water. Today, it’s transforming into something extraordinary—an enclave that blends the same peaceful island spirit with modern luxury.

A Private Slice of Island Luxury

Seven Palms Cove is redefining upscale coastal living in the Lower Keys. With only seven oceanfront residences, this gated community offers true exclusivity—homes start at $4 million and come loaded with features that make every day feel like a world-class vacation.

Each home includes:

• 4,000+ sq. ft. of living space

• 5 bedrooms and 5.5 bathrooms

• Soaring 10' ceilings

• Impact glass and bright open-concept interiors

• A chef’s kitchen with premium appliances, quartz countertops, pantry, and a large island worthy of hosting big family dinners or casual sunset cocktails

Step outside and the Keys lifestyle unfolds effortlessly. Each home features multiple verandas and balconies, plus a rooftop observation deck perfect for catching sunrise coffee and sunset champagne. You also get your own sparkling infinity pool and spacious deck with seamless access to the water—this is indoor-outdoor living at its finest.

Built for Boaters and Adventure-Lovers

This is Summerland Key, after all—which means water access matters.

Each residence comes with its own assigned dock space in a private boat basin featuring new composite docks, freshwater and electric hook-ups, and even a fillet station (for those who know the joy of cleaning tonight’s dinner with the ocean breeze on your back).

Add in Tesla Solar, an elevator, and generous storage, and Seven Palms Cove nails the sweet spot between luxury and practicality.

And if you love staying active, the community amenities include a sport court for tennis, pickleball, and basketball, plus oceanfront lounge spaces, hammocks, and easy access for paddleboarding and kayaking.

Unmatched Accessibility (Yes, Even in the Keys!)

Seven Palms Cove is just one block from Summerland Key’s private airport, making it one of the most accessible luxury communities in the island chain. For snowbirds, jetsetters, or friends who “just want to pop down for the weekend,” it doesn’t get more convenient.

A Strong Investment Opportunity

There are no rental restrictions, which is rare for a community of this caliber. Nearby luxury homes in this area are generating over $300,000 annually, making Seven Palms Cove a standout opportunity for investors or those looking for a high-end vacation home that can help pay for itself.

Why Seven Palms Cove Matters

For me, seeing this property developed feels like watching a favorite childhood shoreline grow up—same stunning ocean, same salty breezes, but now dressed in a new level of elegance. It’s exciting to see Summerland Key shine with a community that blends exclusivity, comfort, and modern design while still honoring the laid-back Keys spirit.

Whether you’re dreaming of a forever home, a luxury retreat near Key West, or an investment with serious potential, Seven Palms Cove is a rare gem—and one worth keeping on your radar.

If you’d like pricing, floor plans, or a private look at this unique development, I’m always here to help. After all… I’ve known this shoreline for a long time.

Listing information provided by Stephanie Muzzillo of Serhant Florida LLC

 

The Truth About Downstairs Living in the Florida Keys (And Why It’s Not Always What You Think!)

 

If you’ve spent any time house-hunting in the Florida Keys, you’ve probably noticed something right away: we love our downstairs spaces.

Porches, storage rooms, workshops, little bonus areas — you name it, we’ve built it. And because our islands are full of homes on stilts, the downstairs level often looks like the perfect spot for a guest suite, an office, or maybe even a rental.

But here’s the twist.
Not every downstairs space is legal living space, and even the legal ones can’t always be rented out on their own.

The good news? Once you understand how it works, it’s actually pretty simple. And knowing the rules helps you make smarter choices as a buyer or a seller — without killing any of the Keys fun. 😎

Let’s break it down in a friendly, easy way.

🌴 So What Is Legal Downstairs Living?

To call a downstairs area “legal living space,” it must meet a few conditions:

• It has to be built above the required flood elevation

• It needs proper building permits

• It must meet current code requirements (think: windows, electric, plumbing, HVAC)

• And it must be listed as living space on the Property Appraiser’s record

If a downstairs room checks all of those boxes, great! That’s a true, legal living area.

But here’s the catch: not all finished spaces you see down there meet these standards.
Some were built before modern flood rules (Pre-FIRM homes). Some were finished without permits. And some are meant to be storage or hobby areas — even when they look like adorable mini apartments.

🛠️ Three Types of Downstairs Spaces You’ll See in the Keys

Most homes you tour will fall into one of these categories:

1. Fully Permitted, Legal Living Space

These are rare gems. They’re allowed, they’re safe, and they add real value.
But they’re still part of one single-family home unless zoning says otherwise.

2. Legal, Permitted Storage or Accessory Space

Think workshops, craft rooms, fishing gear storage, or a place to keep your bike and paddleboard.
Some owners finish them nicely, add AC, or make them extra comfortable — and that’s fine! These are great bonus spaces.
But they’re not legal living areas.

3. Charming but Not Legal Living Areas (Pre-FIRM or Unpermitted)

These can look ready to move into, but they don’t meet today’s flood-safety rules.
People often use them casually, but they can’t be counted as square footage or advertised as living space.

The key is that downstairs rooms in our islands are not all created equal, and understanding which type you’re looking at helps avoid surprises later.

💸 And Now for the Big Myth… Renting the Downstairs!

This is where many homeowners and buyers get tripped up.

We’ve all heard the story:

“My neighbor rents their downstairs for $2,000 a month!”
“My friend’s cousin lives downstairs and pays half the mortgage!”

These stories travel fast — but they don’t tell the whole truth.

✔ Legal living space does not automatically mean you can rent it separately.

✔ A home can have two great levels, but that doesn’t make it a duplex.

✔ Most homes in the Keys are zoned single-family, even with legal space downstairs.

To rent a downstairs unit separately from the upstairs, you need:

1. A legal, permitted living area

2. AND the correct zoning for multi-family use

Without both of those, the property is still one home, and the downstairs cannot become a stand-alone rental unit.

This isn’t meant to spoil the fun — it’s meant to save future headaches. Many buyers assume the downstairs will pay the mortgage, only to learn later that the zoning doesn’t allow separate rentals. Knowing ahead of time keeps expectations realistic and leads to smoother transactions for everyone.

🏝️ So Why All the Rules?

Believe it or not, the rules are not designed to annoy homeowners. They exist because:

• Downstairs areas can flood

• Evacuation standards matter in a hurricane zone

• Insurance depends on accurate building use

• The county tries to prevent unregulated, unsafe rentals

Plus, maintaining the character and safety of our island neighborhoods helps protect property values, which benefits everyone.

🔍 Tips for Buyers: How to Check What’s What

Here’s what smart buyers do before falling in love with a downstairs space:

• Look at the Property Appraiser’s website

• Review the building permits

• Check the elevation certificate

• Confirm the zoning type

• Ask your agent (that’s you!) to explain what’s legal vs. not

A quick check early in the process can tell you everything you need to know.

🐬 Tips for Sellers: Market It the Right Way

If you’re selling, you don’t have to hide your downstairs area — you just want to describe it accurately.

• You can highlight storage rooms, workshops, hobby areas, and bonus space

• You cannot advertise unpermitted areas as legal living space

• And you shouldn’t promise buyers it can be rented unless zoning allows it

The good news is that well-done downstairs areas — even non-living ones — still attract buyers. People love flexible space for guests, gear, work, or just extra breathing room. Honest marketing helps avoid issues later.

🌞 Final Thoughts: Keys Living Done the Smart Way

Downstairs spaces are part of what makes Florida Keys homes so versatile and fun. They give us extra room for hobbies, storage, guests, and gear — all the things that go with our island lifestyle.

You don’t have to fear the rules. You just need to understand them.

When you know what’s legal, what’s not, and what zoning allows, you can buy with confidence and sell with clarity. And that’s the secret to stress-free homeownership in the Keys.

If you ever have a question about a downstairs space — whether you’re shopping, selling, or just curious — I’m always here to help you sort it out with a smile.

 

The Surprising Truth About Mobile Homes in the Florida Keys

 An Overlooked Gem in Paradise Living

When people think of the Florida Keys, they picture pastel cottages, waterfront estates, and those dreamy stilted homes that grace every postcard. But there’s another property type tucked between the palms—and it deserves way more love than it gets: mobile homes.

Yep, mobile homes. And no, they’re not what many folks imagine. In the Keys, mobile homes come with character, charm, ocean breezes, and sometimes… million-dollar price tags. Let’s take a closer look.

Why Mobile Homes Are Still a Big Deal Here

First, let’s get the obvious out of the way: mobile homes don’t perform as well as traditional construction during strong storms, especially hurricanes. Everyone knows it—including the buyers. And yet… they’re still popular. Here’s why:

1. The Land Is the Real Treasure

In the Keys, the land itself is often the star of the show. A mobile home on a canal with direct ocean access? That’s prime real estate. In fact, some of these parcels have sold for over $1,000,000, even with an older mobile home sitting on them. Buyers often renovate, replace, or rebuild—but they want that slice of paradise first.

2. A More Affordable Entry Into Island Living

Not everyone wants—or needs—a multimillion-dollar house. Mobile homes can start in the low $100,000s, giving people a chance to put down roots in a place where the average single-family home price can make your eyes water. For many locals, mobile homes have been the way families stay in the Keys generation after generation.

3. Lower Upfront Costs = More Budget for Boating and Sunshine

Let’s be honest: life in the Keys is meant to be lived outside. Many buyers look at mobile homes as a smart way to enjoy fishing, diving, sandbar hopping, and sunset cruising without spending every last dollar on the structure itself.

4. Communities With Amenities and Personality

From waterfront parks to private boat ramps to tight-knit, friendly neighborhoods, mobile home communities offer the Keys charm buyers crave. Some are 55+, some are family-friendly, and many have that laid-back “everyone knows your dog” vibe.

What Buyers Should Know

Mobile homes in the Keys come with a few quirks and considerations—nothing scary, just things that make this place unique.

Storm Planning Is Non-Negotiable

While mobile homes may be more vulnerable during hurricanes, owners here know the drill: prepare early, stay informed, and follow Monroe County’s guidance. Many homes have upgraded tie-downs or reinforced structures to add peace of mind.

Financing Can Be Different

Depending on the age of the mobile home and whether it is on leased or owned land, the financing process can vary. Buyers should always work with a lender who understands mobile homes in Monroe County. (Good news: we have plenty!)

Some Parks Are “Hidden Treasure” Zones

There are communities from Key Largo to Key West that offer incredible waterfront opportunities that you can’t find in mainland markets. Some even have homes that are steps from the water for a fraction of the price of neighboring condos.

So… Why Buy a Mobile Home in the Keys?

Because at the end of the day, people aren’t buying metal walls or vinyl siding. They’re buying:

• Sunsets over the Gulf

• Quick boat rides to Tavernier Creek or the reef

• A five-minute walk to the water

• A community that feels like family

• A lifestyle that’s impossible to duplicate anywhere else

A mobile home can be the key—pun happily intended—to unlocking that dream.

Final Thoughts: Don’t Overlook This Option

Mobile homes may not be the first thing people picture when searching for a home in the Florida Keys, but they offer something that’s becoming harder to find: flexibility, affordability, location, and a real taste of true island living.

Whether a buyer wants an affordable escape, a place to retire with sea breezes, or a premium waterfront lot with rebuilding potential, mobile homes deserve a spot on the list.

Click here to see a list of available mobile homes in the Keys

 

The Haunted History of Indian Key: Ghosts, Grit, and Florida Keys Lore

Just off the coast of Islamorada lies Indian Key, a tiny island with a huge story to tell. Today, it’s quiet — home to seabirds, mangroves, and whispers of the past. But nearly 200 years ago, this now-deserted key was buzzing with life, trade, and a little bit of danger.

A Bustling Island in the 1800s

In the early 1800s, Indian Key was one of the busiest places in the Upper Keys. Ships often wrecked on the nearby reefs, and brave “wreckers” would race to salvage the cargo. The island became a thriving little community with homes, shops, and even a courthouse.

Believe it or not, for a short time Indian Key was the county seat of Dade County — even though Miami didn’t exist yet!

The Attack That Changed Everything

The island’s golden age ended in 1840, during the Second Seminole War. A surprise attack left the settlement in ruins, and many residents fled by boat. Since then, no one has ever rebuilt Indian Key. Nature took over, leaving only stone foundations and stories that refuse to fade away.

Ghosts of the Past

Visitors say the island still holds the energy of its early settlers. Some claim to hear distant footsteps or the sound of waves against wooden docks that vanished long ago. Others just feel that unmistakable “presence” — a mix of mystery and history that gives the island its ghostly charm.

Whether you believe in ghosts or not, it’s hard to deny the feeling that Indian Key remembers.

Exploring Today

Today, Indian Key Historic State Park is a peaceful spot for kayaking, picnicking, and walking the old streets where a town once stood. You can still see the outlines of homes and warehouses, framed by sea grape trees and coral rock. Bring your curiosity — and maybe a camera, just in case something unexplained appears in your photo!

A Piece of Keys History

Indian Key may be uninhabited now, but its story is woven into the fabric of the Florida Keys. It’s a reminder that these islands hold both beauty and mystery — sometimes in the very same tide.

Fun Fact: The original founder of Indian Key, Jacob Housman, dreamed of turning the island into a tropical empire. Instead, it became one of the Keys’ most fascinating ghost stories.

 

Monday Morning Market Update – Florida Keys Edition!

Good morning, everyone! Let’s dive into what’s new in the Florida Keys real estate market.

This week brought 71 new listings, with homes ranging from the mid-$300s all the way to nearly $12 million. The Keys may have a big reputation as a rich man’s paradise, but there are still properties across a wide range of prices. Whether someone is searching for their first home, a vacation condo, or a luxury waterfront estate, there are options for every goal and budget.

We’re also seeing a steady rise in new listings each week. As we get closer to season, more sellers are stepping forward. It’s a good sign for buyers who want more choices and for sellers who want active eyes on their homes.

Here are the properties that were listed this week:
🔗 Click here for new listings

Sales were strong across the board. Condos and smaller homes saw plenty of activity. The top sale of the week was an incredible bayfront home in Venetian Shores, closing at $7,750,000.

Here are the properties that sold this week:
🔗 Click here for sold listings

The market is moving, the inventory is growing, and season is right around the corner. Stay tuned each Monday for more updates!

First Class Fridays: A Spotlight on 415 Palm Drive, Lower Matecumbe

Happy Friday and welcome to First Class Fridays! Today, we’re heading to one of my favorite spots in the Florida Keys—415 Palm Drive in Lower Matecumbe. If you’ve ever dreamed of living the true Keys lifestyle, this home checks every box.

From the moment you see it, this house feels like island living at its finest. Wrapped in a soft pastel pink with classic island-style architecture and lush native landscaping, it gives off the peaceful, breezy vibe we all love down here. It’s the kind of place that makes you slow down, breathe in the salt air, and smile.

But the magic doesn’t stop at the curb.

A Home with Heart, Craftsmanship, and Coastal Style

Known as “Piece of Quiet,” this home is a Miami Herald Fame Award winner—and once you step inside, you understand why. It’s built with solid CBS construction, wrapped in charming island-style siding, and finished with thoughtful details everywhere you look.

The main living area features grand arched French doors that let sunshine pour in while framing beautiful views of the water. It’s bright, relaxed, and welcoming—just the way a Keys home should feel.

One of my favorite features? The custom terrace floors. They were modeled after the iconic flooring at the Historic Cheeca Lodge & Spa, adding a timeless coastal touch you don’t often find outside a luxury resort.

Inside, white oak flooring brings both warmth and sophistication, while the open-concept layout keeps the flow light and easy. Whether you’re entertaining friends or enjoying a quiet morning with coffee, this home makes every moment feel special.

A Master Suite That Steals the Show

Let’s talk about the master suite, because it deserves its own spotlight.

This space feels like a private retreat all on its own. It offers room to breathe, an air of calm luxury, and one of the largest true walk-in closets you’ll find in the Keys—big, open, and ready for everything you want to bring.

And then there’s the classic claw-foot tub. It’s elegant, timeless, and perfect for those long, relaxing soaks after a day on the water.

For the Boater at Heart

If you love boating or spending your days on the water, this home delivers in a big way.

You’ll find 70 feet of dockage on a quiet, protected deepwater basin. It’s ideal for your vessels and makes it easy to head straight out into the bay. Want to reach the ocean? You’re just minutes away via the bridges at Channels 2 and 5.

From sunset cruises to reef trips, you’re in the perfect place to enjoy it all.

Outdoor Living Done Right

Whether you're grilling, reading, or soaking up the breeze, the outdoor spaces here are wonderful. Waterfront decks invite you to linger, watch boats glide past, and enjoy the peaceful beauty of Safety Harbor.

This home doesn’t just offer a place to live—it offers a lifestyle. One filled with color, comfort, nature, and pure coastal charm.

Don’t miss the chance to see this rare gem.
If you're looking for a waterfront retreat that blends elegance, strength, and timeless Keys beauty, schedule your private showing today. 415 Palm Drive is truly something special.

Click here for more details and photos 

 

Discover Executive Bay Club: Spacious Townhomes in the Heart of Islamorada

If you’re looking for a comfortable and convenient home in Islamorada, Executive Bay Club is a great place to explore. This waterfront community offers two-story townhomes with a layout that feels open, bright, and welcoming. One of the best features of these homes is the master bedroom. It is known for being very large, giving you plenty of space to relax and recharge.

Many of the townhomes were built with spiral staircases connecting the two floors. These add charm and save space. Some owners have redesigned the staircase and replaced it with a traditional staircase for easier access. In addition, every master bedroom has a small loft with a low ceiling. Most owners use this spot for storage, but others have turned it into a reading nook, play space, or even extra living area.

Each unit also has a ground-level outdoor area. Many owners have upgraded these spaces with pavers, plants, shade, and stylish seating. These private patios are perfect for morning coffee, evening grilling, or simply enjoying the island breeze.

Executive Bay Club offers more than beautiful homes. It also provides a wide range of amenities for relaxation and fun:

• A sandy beach for sunbathing or launching a kayak

• A sparkling pool for cooling off

• Tennis courts for a quick match

• A clubhouse for gatherings

• A brand-new marina with dockage for boaters

Best of all, the community is in a prime location. You can walk to Founders Park, where you’ll find walking paths, a boat ramp, a dog park, a marina, and many local events. You are also just minutes from some of the best dining spots in Islamorada. It’s easy to live a relaxed Keys lifestyle here while staying close to everything you need.

If you want a mix of peace, comfort, and convenience, Executive Bay Club may be the ideal choice. These townhomes offer great space, smart layouts, and access to top-tier amenities. It’s a true piece of paradise.

If you’d like to learn more or schedule a private tour, I’m here to help. Click here to view current listings.

The Realities Behind Paradise: What to Know About Living in the Florida Keys

Most people picture the Florida Keys as sunshine, turquoise water, and endless island breezes — and they’re right. But living in paradise comes with a few realities that set island life apart from the mainland. These aren’t deal-breakers; they’re simply part of the Keys lifestyle. When you know what to expect, it’s easy to see why so many people fall in love with life at the end of the road.

Let’s take a look at some of the most common challenges and the silver linings that come with them.

🏥 Medical Care: Smaller System, Close-Knit Feel

Because the Keys are a small chain of islands, there are only three hospitals and fewer specialized medical facilities than you would find in a major city. For advanced care, residents often head to Miami.

The upside:
The local medical community is tight-knit and personal. For day-to-day needs, care is efficient and convenient. And when you do need a specialist, world-class hospitals in Miami are still within reach.

💸 Higher Cost of Living: The Island Trade-off

Groceries, fuel, building materials, and even dining out can cost more in the Keys. This “island tax” comes from the simple fact that most goods have to travel here.

The upside:
Many residents say the cost is worth the lifestyle. Free and low-cost outdoor fun — boating, snorkeling, walking trails, and sunset-watching — more than makes up for it. Living in the Keys is less about buying things and more about enjoying the world around you.

🚗 One Highway, One Pace

US-1 is the main road through the Keys, and it’s the only road connecting the islands to the mainland. Traffic can slow down, especially during busy weekends or special events.

The upside:
People quickly embrace “island time.” The drive becomes part of the charm, with blue water on both sides and some of the best views in Florida. Most residents will tell you that the moment they hit Monroe County, their stress levels drop.

🌀 Weather and Storm Prep: A Way of Life

Hurricanes and tropical storms are a reality here. Strong insurance, sturdy shutters, and a solid plan are essential.

The upside:
Modern homes are built to tough hurricane codes, and local crews are experienced at prepping and restoring. Many homeowners earn insurance discounts for keeping their homes storm-ready.

🛍️ Shopping and Entertainment: Less Big Box, More Local Charm

The Keys don’t have many big box stores or major shopping centers. If you need a full day of shopping, you may make a trip to Miami.

The upside:
Small businesses, local markets, and artisan shops thrive here. It’s easy to support local artists, bakers, fishermen, and makers — and that’s a big part of what gives the Keys its character.

🐟 Other Island Life Realities

Limited Job Options

Most local jobs are in tourism, hospitality, marine services, healthcare, and real estate.

Bright side:
Entrepreneurs and remote workers love the flexible, small-town business environment.

Higher Insurance Costs

Wind, flood, and homeowner’s insurance can be pricier.

Bright side:
Newer construction, mitigation updates, and proper maintenance can help reduce costs.

Small-Town Vibes

Everyone knows everyone — which can feel warm or a bit cozy, depending on your personality.

Bright side:
If you love community and connection, you’ll fit right in.

Limited Space

Land is limited, so yards and storage areas may be smaller.

Bright side:
Most people spend far more time outdoors or on the water than they ever would in a backyard.

 

Monday Market Update: What Buyers Asked Me This Week

 

Every week, I hear the same big question from buyers:

“Are there enough homes to choose from right now?”

Last week, the answer was a strong yes.

The Florida Keys saw 47 new properties hit the market. That means fresh options for almost every price point and every style—waterfront, condos, single-family homes, and a few surprises in between.
👉 View all the new listings here:

At the same time, the market stayed active on the closing side. 24 homes sold across the Keys last week.
👉 See the recent sales here:

So what does this mean for you?

For buyers, more listings bring more breathing room. You can take your time, compare choices, and find the home that truly fits your island lifestyle.

For sellers, the steady flow of closings shows that motivated buyers are still out there. Well-priced and well-presented homes are moving.

Overall, this feels like a healthy moment in the market. New listings + steady sales = a good balance. And that balance gives everyone a chance to make smart decisions.

If you have questions about a certain neighborhood or price range, I’m here and always happy to help.

 

First Class Fridays: Spotlight on Big Pine Key’s Open Water Homes

Happy Friday! For this week’s First Class Friday, we’re taking a closer look at open water homes on Big Pine Key—a place that feels like the most natural, untouched part of the entire island chain. If you love wide views, wildlife, and room to breathe, Big Pine might steal your heart.

🦌 Nature at Your Front Door

Big Pine Key stands out because it feels truly wild. The island is home to the protected Key Deer Habitat, where the tiny Key deer wander peacefully through the neighborhoods. You’ll also find the Blue Hole, a freshwater quarry where turtles, birds, fish, and even the occasional alligator make their home. Living here means nature isn’t a day trip—it’s your daily backdrop.

🌊 Why Open Water Homes Shine Here

Open water properties on Big Pine Key offer some of the most sweeping views in the Lower Keys. Imagine mornings with the sun rising over glassy water, afternoons spent launching a kayak from your own yard, or evenings watching dolphins or rays drift by. These homes often sit on larger lots, giving you privacy along with those long, unobstructed views.

Whether you’re an avid boater, a paddleboard fan, or someone who just loves the serenity of the sea, Big Pine’s open water homes offer a front-row seat to everything you love about life in the Keys.

📍 A Perfect Lower Keys Location

Big Pine Key sits about 30 minutes from Key West and roughly the same distance to Marathon. It’s a sweet spot—close enough for commuting, dining, and nightlife, but far enough away to enjoy peace and space. The island also offers schools, grocery stores, local restaurants, and of course the infamous No Name Pub, a true Keys icon.

🏡 Laid-Back Living With Room to Explore

Life on Big Pine is relaxed, neighborly, and spacious. You’re surrounded by open water, open sky, and open possibilities. It’s the kind of place where you can take a slow morning, enjoy the breeze, and feel connected to the natural beauty that defines the Keys.

Ready to live the laid back island life on Big Pine Key with incredible views? Here are the homes on the market. 

 

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