Realtors in Naples, Florida, say their town is ranked as one of the most desirable places to live, and housing is still going strong.

"Judged the 'Best Beach City and the 'Best City under 30,000 for the Arts,' with shopping, entertainment, educational offerings, championship golf courses and great boating and fishing, it should come as no surprise that Naples is a cherished place to live," says Realtor William Rogan. "There is a reason that more millionaires per capita live in Naples than just about anywhere."

Rogan explains, "Home prices continue to rise. With no sales tax, a homestead exemption, a 3 percent yearly cap on assessed value and a low mileage rate of 1.16-1.25 percent, there are strong financial incentives for living here as well. The selling price of a home in Naples, according the Florida Association of Realtors, rose 24 percent in the first quarter of 2005 alone. The median price of a home in May 2005 was $468,000. The average sales price was $693,158, an increase in average selling price over May 2004 of 70 percent. It is probable that home prices, both re-sale and new construction, will continue to rise. A correction to the market is expected, with some leveling off. The trend should continue upwards, however, with not as dramatic an increase in selling price."

"Viewed strictly as an investment, Naples real estate remains a strong alternative to the stock market and other more risky forums. Return on investment is evident in the appreciation of property more than through possible rental income. Given the statistical evidence in support of property appreciation, interest-only mortgages are highly attractive to many purchasers. Apart from consideration of the investment aspects of property acquisition in Naples, there is a strong emotional factor to be considered. Naples is simply beautiful. The weather is optimal, with blue skies and sun competing with enchanting nights. Whether your passion is golf, tennis, boating, fishing or just relaxing on the beach or at one of our many excellent restaurants and cafes, you'll be delighted. If you prefer night-life, entertainment, the arts and things cultural, Naples is truly unique and still a hidden treasure to many."

Says Realtor Ruthann McBride, "Naples is located in Collier County on the Gulf coast of Florida, South of Fort Myers and Bonita Springs. Naples enjoys unparalleled prosperity and offers unrivaled sport fishing, hunting, boating, sun bathing, and beach combing."

"Single family homes list between the mid $150,000's up to the five million dollar mark," she continues. "There were 421 closed sales for the month of May ranging from $180,00 up to $5,500,000. Naples, known as the crown jewel of southwest Florida, offers sun drenched beaches, world-class shopping, fine dining, a diversity of challenging golf courses and is located only minutes away from the untamed wilderness of the Everglades. Here you will find delightful parks, scenic picnic locations, wonderfully lazy green spaces beckoning you to take off your shoes and relax. This city offers many art galleries, theaters, museums, as well as a host of restaurants and night life entertainment. Naples offers some of the finest homes in the world and lifestyles to match along with unrivaled sport fishing, hunting, boating, sun bathing, and beach combing. Naples continues to attract people today just as it did over a century ago."

"Florida's population is estimated to grow by 85 percent from 2005 through 2030. South Florida will be getting most of that growth," says Realtor Andrea Rensman. "Space is limited, especially coastal space. I have seen Naples expand eastwards (inland) the last couple of years at an unbelievable pace. Prices are going up daily. Baby boomers are starting to buy now fearing that if they wait they might miss out. Most new construction sells out before ground is broken. The time to buy is now -- if you snooze, you lose!"

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Published: August 29, 2005

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