Brand New on The Market In Venetian Shores - 125 Bayview Isle Drive $940,000

Venetian Shores from Florida Bay

I Love Venetian Shores. It's one of my favorite Keys Communities. With its 11 peninsulas reaching out into Snake Creek like fingers thirsty to drink in the sea, it offers hardcore boaters deep water dockage and quick access to Islamorada's famed fishing grounds through the Keys' last Draw Bridge.  If you have a Hatteras or other large boat this is the community for you!

As, a Venetian Shores Specialist, I enjoy keeping my clients up to date with the latest available properties and real estate news, as well as recently closed properties.

As one of Islamorada's most in demand communities, Venetian Shores is always tops on everyone's list. Only minutes from Miami, yet a world away.


125 Bayview Isle Drive 

List Price: $940,000 

3 Bedrooms / 2.1 Bathrooms

Mile Marker 86

Description: VENETIAN SHORES WATERFRONT all concrete home with DOCKAGE and boat lift/boat ramp in Islamorada's premier boating neighorhood. Venetian Shores offers wide, deep canals with immediate access to both the ocean and bay through Snake Creek Channel. Beautifully updated 3/2.5 includes a pre-firm guest apt. downstairs with bedroom, bath & separate kitchen. Water views throughout. Paver drive & garage.  Offered by Coldwell Banker.

View Detailed Brochure with Photos and Mapped Location

View Available Venetian Shores Waterfront Homes

Your Conchquistador Keeps Conchquering!! Check Out My New Billboard as You Head to The Keys!!

Our New Billboard on US1 at the gateway to The Keys!!

OK, so talk about Coups!!

My friend and colleague Joel Young, was able to use his long time connection at the Visitor Center in Florida City on US1, the gateway to The Keys,  to score us a double sided Marquee Billboard!!!

Super excited to be able to have folks see our banner as they both drive To AND From the Keys!

We even obtained a new toll free number 888-963-KEYS. Program it into you phone now!

In my ongoing efforts to dominate Keys real estate...Veni, Vidi, Vici...this is just one more tool in my belt to offer my Clients Outstanding Service.

Zillow and Tulia Premier agent status...Check
Local Radio show sponsorship ... Check
Featured as Local Real Estate Expert on Radio...Check
Award-Winning Blog....You KNOW that's a Check
Social Media Presence...Check
Membership in a slew of local business and civic organization...Check
And Now Billboard...Gotta Love it..Check.

The whole goal is to create buyer and seller activity that in turn benefits my existing buyers and sellers, by creating more Buyers and Sellers...Confusing???  Nah...It's what I do.

Let me offer you the 5 Star Service that I am know for.

Put the experience and expertise of The Conchquistador to work for you!
For more information on the outstanding real estate opportunities that exist in the Keys, call me at 305.439.7730 or email me at DropAnchor@TheRealEstateConch.com.

Ready to create your own no-hassle shopping cart of available Properties in the Florida Keys, with multiple search capability? Click here: Conchmls.com .

Hide your Honeyhole...Here Comes Lobster Mini-Season

Tickle Stick...Check...Net ...Check...Gloves ...Check ....Secret GPS Lobster Spots (AKA Honeyholes) Check!
OK! It's time for Mini-Lobster Season!!!  Get The Butter!

Come and Get 'Em!!! Photo courtesy of Capt. Matt Bellinger of Bamboo Charters

Yes it's that crazy two days in July here in The Keys where boat gas prices soar, and Johnny Law is just itching to cite violators who don't measure or exceed their catch.

Hoards of marine hunters motor down here boats in tow like pilgrims to Mecca to hunt for our tasty crustations and catch a post dive buzz at the Tiki Bar.

For the uninitiated, Lobster Mini Season is always the last Wednesday and Thursday in July that gives recreational harvesters an edge on the commercial guys who cant start fishing until August.

It's also a great weekend for real estate as many people, especially mainlanders finally say, "I need a place down here!"  And that, my friends is when your Humble Conchquistador springs into action!  With all the great deals down here there is something for everyone.

From Mobile and Manufactured homes to Oceanfront Estates, The Florida Keys offer you your own customized Island Oasis.

So come on down, know the rules, grab some bugs (local slang for Lobster), grab a beer, and then call me to grab a slice of paradise.

Oh yeah and since you read this far I am going to share with you my faithful reader on of my favorite spots! Trust me this is a Major Gift as Spots are super secret!!! But hey...I am a benevolent Conchquistador.

Try Hog Rocks off Key Largo GPS  N24 59.550 W80 27.440.  7-15 feet down under the rocks.

Put the experience and expertise of The Conchquistador to work for you!
For more information on the outstanding real estate opportunities that exist in the Keys, call me at 305.439.7730 or email me at DropAnchor@TheRealEstateConch.com.

Ready to create your own no-hassle shopping cart of available Properties in the Florida Keys, with multiple search capability? Click here: ConchMLS.com .

Summer Time and the Livin' Is Easy....Fish are Jumpin' and It's A Great Time to Buy in The Keys!!

Summertime ... and the livin' is easy.  Fish are jumpin' ....well, you know the rest.

Hmmm  Gershwin must have been contemplating the Keys.

No place I would rather be than here in our breezy windswept chain of  limestone and charm.

It's never too hot, and when the mercury does start its upward climb, just head out on the water as we did the other day. Went to the splendor of the Keys...Molasses Reef.  Always so breath taking, and even more so for out clients that we took out, as we floated 25 feet above the coral, watching the brilliant hues of seafans and the multitude of sea life that passed inches beyond our masks.  Grouper, Permit, Margate, a playful Turtle, Sergeant Majors and Blue Tangs, all danced in their own underwater Busby Berkly routine.

Even better yet was the personal escort that we had from a pod of porpoises 14 members strong!

All of this minutes from shore!!  Even as a lifelong lover of the Keys, this stuff never gets old!!  It is no wonder why guys like Zane Grey and Hemingway thrilled to be here.  The vibe of nature coupled with easy living and a dash of debauchery make our oasis a magnate for the rich, the creative and basically anyone else who is looking for our unique bouillabaisse way of life.

Below are Market Stats for June in the Upper Keys.

These numbers are interesting as it is the first month in some time that we have taken a backstep in sales values, which is good for buyers...keeping a lid on our growing prices for admission into Keys homeownership.
But don't wait too long,  the vibe is that as this great Summer Progresses more and more buyers are jumping into the waters.

Yep. It's Summertime and the Livin' IS easy, the fish ARE Jumpin' and Deals are there to be had!!!

Put the experience and expertise of The Conchquistador to work for you!
For more information on the outstanding real estate opportunities that exist in the Keys, call me at 305.439.7730 or email me at DropAnchor@TheRealEstateConch.com.

Ready to create your own no-hassle shopping cart of available Properties in the Florida Keys, with multiple search capability? Click here: ConchMLS.com .

The Zane Grey Radio Show in The Florida Keys

Take a listen to the Local radio Show that I sponsor on 103.1 Sun FM in the Florida Keys on Iheart radio worldwide. Coming live from the Zane Grey lounge with drink specials, give aways, and some free appetizers. Every Wednesday night 6-7 PM.

Dougie Is at The Zane Grey Radio show Tonight
6p - 7p upstiars at World Wide Sportsman mm 81.5
bayside Islamorada, every wednesday.
Comp apps for everyone. Drink specials too.
Captn Matt Bellinger in the air chair alongside Dougie .
Like old times come on out and join us
Listen on our sister station sun 103.1 or sun103.com or iHeart radio
Free giveaways too!

Another Newly Listed Waterfront Property In Prestigious Venetian Shores - $949,000

As, a Venetian Shores Specialist, I enjoy keeping my clients up to date with the latest available properties and real estate news, as well as recently closed properties.

Venetian Shores from Florida Bay

I Love Venetian Shores. It's one of my favorite Keys Communities. With its 11 peninsulas reaching out into Snake Creek like fingers thirsty to drink in the sea, it offers hardcore boaters deep water dockage and quick access to Islamorada's famed fishing grounds through the Keys' last Draw Bridge.  If you have a Hatteras or other large boat this is the community for you!

As one of Islamorada's most in demand communities, Venetian Shores is always tops on everyone's list. Only minutes from Miami, yet a world away.


120 Bayview Isle Drive, Islamorada

List Price: $949,000


2 Bedrooms / 2 Bathrooms


Mile Marker 86

Description: MOST DESIRABLE STREET IN VENETIAN SHORES is offering a well-built nicely remodeled concrete home with 2bd/2ba up, enclosure and workshop down, large screened porch, concrete deep water dockage, davits, and boat. Immediate ocean and bay access. Great price in prestigious area!and soaring ceilings.  Offered by Realty World.


View Detailed Brochure With Photos
View Available Venetian Shores Homes

Florida Keys Profanity

Forget George Carlin's 7 dirty words. Forget the F, S, C, P, D, and just about any other A thru Z words....When it comes to June 1st in the Florida Keys, one word is MOST Profane!!!! Wash your mouth out with bad Zest Profane..and that is The H-Word....Hurricane.

Yep, It's THAT Time of Year Again.

Yes, like most of the Eastern states, The Florida Keys once again hold its collective breath as we start another dreaded Hurricane Season. Our little stretch of 118 miles of dust, gravel, and mangroves are prone to these suckers!

The Lovely, yet Somber,
Hurricane Memorial in Islamorada

All joking aside, Hurricanes have had an indelible effect on the Florida Keys. One visit to the lovely, yet somber Hurricane Memorial in Islamorada, quickly paints the image of the power and destructive capability these massive weather phenomena posses.

Who can deny the impact the 1935 Storm had. It virtually and literally collapsed the Overseas Railway. It fueled Hemingway's creative fires for several of his subsequent novels. Most people are not aware that Hemingway was quite an unsung hero of the 1935 storm, providing great assistance in relief efforts aboard his Boat Pilar.

So, as we break out our shutters and refresh out mooring plans and search for that perfect hurricane hole for out boats. We get ready in true Keys fashion: We throw on Jimmy Buffett's "Tryin' to Reason with Hurricane Season", Mix up a batch of Margaritas, and give the H-word...the F-word.

Ready to find YOUR port in the storm??? Put the experience and expertise of The Conchquistador to work for you! For more information on the outstanding real estate opportunities that exist in the Keys, call me at 305.439.7730 or email me at DropAnchor@TheRealEstateConch.com.

Yes, I know it's now the Postcard Inn at Holiday Isle and yes the renovations have been outstanding, but it will always be The Holiday Isle to me.
This locale was the sight of so many of my Sunday afternoons. At the Tiki  Bar, at The Sand Bar, at The Float up Pool Bar....hmmm lot of bars...lol  A ritual really.  A Keys-z somewhat debauched detachment from reality.  All for the price of a Rum Runner.

And the man who really MADE Holiday Isle that great escape was Joe Roth Jr.  I saw this article today from the FreePress and was delighted to see that The bridge will be in his honor.  Very well deserved indeed!

Joe Roth’s name to be added to Islamorada’s Whale Harbor Bridge

BY ROBERT SILK Free Press Staff rsilk@keysnews.com
During the 1980s and ’90s, Joe Roth Jr. transformed Holiday Isle Resort from a quaint but struggling hotel into an Upper Keys icon that drew revelers from around the region and beyond.
This week, nearly two years after Roth’s death, the Village Council is slated to take one of the final steps in getting the bridge at Holiday Isle’s doorstep marked in his honor.
Under a bill passed by the Florida Legislature this year, the Whale Harbor Bridge is already slated to become the Whale Harbor Joe Roth Jr. Bridge when the fiscal year begins on July 1. The passage of that formal commemoration of Roth was the culmination of an effort that started at the urging of the Village Council in late 2010 and was then championed in Tallahassee by state Sen. Larcenia Bullard, D-Miami, and state Rep. Ron Saunders, D-Key West.
Now the process circles back to the Village Council. On Thursday, May 24, the council will vote on a formal resolution calling on the Florida Department of Transportation to erect the Roth sign.

Whale Harbor Sand Bar right off the Holiday Isle

Assuming passage, the sign would likely go up in about eight weeks, said FDOT spokesman Brian Rick.
Roth’s son, Joe III, said the family is excited that the marker could soon become a reality.
“I think it is a fitting honor for him, given that he brought so much to the community, and he brought so much to that area of Islamorada, and he gave so much back to the community,” Roth III said Monday.
Roth Jr., who was 63 when he succumbed to cancer, was part of a three-man partnership that purchased Holiday Isle at a courthouse auction in 1983. In the decade-and-a-half that followed, his gregarious ways and flair for promotion helped make the Coney Island-motifed Windley Key lady a South Florida icon.
Roth tripled the size of the Isle’s World Famous Tiki Bar, developed the concept for the Rum Runners cabana bar and saw the potential of Bartenders’ Bash, the late spring party for hospitality workers that would go on to both bedevil and enthrall Islamorada for many years.

Florida Keys Board of Realtors Sholarship Program Inspires Other Boards

Something real cool just happened at the Florida Keys Board of Realtors office. A broker from Texas, who saw our High School Scholarship Ad in the Free Press, stopped by to ask how our program worked, and was interested in taking our program back to her Association of 6000 members to help in her community. Way to go FKBR Members!!!

For Those of you that are now aware we have a great scholarship program.  Contact  me for details!

Michael Trixx Hi-Energy Rock Magic at it's Best!!! Keys Style.

I LOVE MAGIC!!!

Photo from Michael Trixx Facebook page

And down here in the Keys, we have one of the very best Magicians I have seen in quite sometime.
Michael Trixx features his hi-energy Rock/Magic show at a variety of venues here in the Upper Keys, with a standing gig at Gilbet's, sundown on Saturdays.  He is definitely someone to keep your eye on.

Tuedays, he is at the Lor e Lei in  Islamorada.  If you are down here on those days, take my advice and check him out, and enjoy the show, so you can say I saw him when....

Ready to make some real estate disappear???
Put the experience and expertise of The Conchquistador to work for you! For more information on the outstanding real estate opportunities that exist in the Keys, call me at 305.439.7730 or email me at DropAnchor@TheRealEstateConch.com.
Ready to create your own no-hassle shopping cart of available Properties in the Florida Keys, with multiple search capability? Click here: Conchmls.com .

Just Closed in Venetian Shores...Premium. Originally $2.5M now Closed at $1.7M! The Conchquistador Deal of The Day 4/21.

138 Valencia Dr Plantation Key 

I was recently discussing premium neighborhoods with a Buyer yesterday and educated her that there are really 6 premium neighborhoods in the Upper Keys.  Stillwright Point, Bayside in Key Largo at Mile Marker 106, Port Largo, Oceanside at Mile Marker 99, Buccaneer Point, Bayside at Mile Marker 98, The Port Antigua/Safety Harbor area, Bayside at Mile Marker 74, Millionaire's Row. Oceanside, at Mile Marker 89, and my Favorite, Venetian Shores, Bayside at Mile Marker 86.

Each has it's own distinct character and I sure that there are areas that I omitted that some would believe should be there and some that shouldn't, but over time, these are the areas that have gravitated to the consistent higher prices, larger homes and offer features that affluent buyers are seeking here in the Keys.  Deep water dockage, wider canals, larger homes, larger lots, consistency of the neighborhood, finishes, and open water views, are just some of the variables that most of these neighborhoods posses.

Today's deal is one of those very special homes in Venetian Shores such a coveted community.  Superbly finished with abundant charm and super location.  World Class fishing and diving are mere minutes away!!

Like most things though Price is Key.  Originally listed at $2,500,000 it took almost 2 years to sell until it was priced more aggressively at $1,895,000 to sell at $1,700,000

138 Valencia Dr Plantation Key
 
List Price;$1,895,000 / Sold Price: $1,700,000
Original List Price $2,500,000

4 Bedrooms / 5 Bathrooms

Mile Marker 86

Description: Prestigious custom pool home in Venetian Shores, offering 4 bedrooms, 5 full baths. Private master suites and 1 guest suite upstairs and 2 guest suites downstairs, interior staircase with elevator, gourmet kitchen, laundry room, garage, 100’ concrete dock, boat davits and beautiful professional landscaping. Easy access to Bay and Ocean.

View Detailed Brochure with Photos

View Mapped Location


View Available Venetian Shores Homes


Work with an agent who specializes in Venetian Shores.  Put the experience and expertise of The Conchquistador to work for you! For more information on the outstanding real estate opportunities that exist in the Keys, call me at 305.439.7730 or email me at DropAnchor@TheRealEstateConch.com.

Ready to create your own no-hassle shopping cart of available Properties in the Florida Keys, with multiple search capability? Click here: Conchmls.com .

The Conch Republic : 30 Years Strong!!! We Seceded Where Others Failed! An Insider's Perspective.

 The Keys declared their independence from the U.S. calling themselves the 'Conch Republic' in: 

           1982                              

What prompted the Keys secession from the U.S.?

           Border Patrol roadblocks and inspection points

After secession from the U.S., the president of the Conch Republic requested: 
           One billion dollars in foreign aid from the US

I remember it like it was yesterday, 1982, the Mariel boatlift had just recently transported almost 100,000 Cuban dissidents and prisoners onto our shores, and square grouper was pouring in just as fast. 

Money and Blood flowed as freely as the new Rum Runners at Holiday Isle. A new type of buccaneer had emerged hauling Mary Jane and Cocaine from Cuba to Key West, and not to mention people.

It was painfully obvious what was going on. Hell, they would flaunt it at places like the Tiki Bar where they would drive up in their Maserati's to the Holiday Isle, climb into their forty footer, Cigarettes, start the roaring engines and smile like peacocks, as the gentry would wonder.."How many bales would fit in there???.

Still from the new documentary Square Grouper. 

It was seductive to watch these new Buccaneers, getting rich quick.  The first song I ever wrote was at 15 called "Modern Day Pirate" and some of the very lyrics are contained in the 3 preceding paragraphs. (Ah  Didn't know the Conchquistador was a songwriter??

But we the people were not the ONLY ones watching.. So was THE MAN!!
And in 1982, The Man decided to throw up road blocks in Florida City at the entry to the Keys...really pissing off our individualistic Conchs!!!

Search and seizure was the name of the game, and like the piratey rebels that we are ...protest soon followed...in the form of secession from the United State of America!!! Yes we became a sovereign nation...The Conch Republic!  Somewhat in jest, and tongue in cheek, yet still with some bite.  They were squeezing the gentry in order to flush out the bad guys.

Backups that lasted hours soon ensued, and the MAN did not think our ploy was funny ...AT All.

So now, here we are 30 years later and the Conch Republic is now just a state of mind and a flag and trinkets sell to tourists to take home to Kansas.

But 30 years ago it was a big FU and proudly hoisted Middle Finger to the Federal Government, that epitomized the soul and character of this 130 mile island chain.

Yes....I remember it well....

Work with an agent who was part of the Original Conch Republic.  Put the experience and expertise of The Conchquistador to work for you! For more information on the outstanding real estate opportunities that exist in the Keys, call me at 305.439.7730 or email me at DropAnchor@TheRealEstateConch.com.

 Ready to create your own no-hassle shopping cart of available Properties in the Florida Keys, with multiple search capability? Click here: Conchhomes.com .

Another Newly Listed Waterfront Property In Prestigious Venetian Shores - $1,377,000

As, a Venetian Shores Specialist, I enjoy keeping my clients up to date with the latest available properties and real estate news, as well as recently closed properties.

Venetian Shores from Florida Bay

I Love Venetian Shores. It's one of my favorite Keys Communities. With its 11 peninsulas reaching out into Snake Creek like fingers thirsty to drink in the sea, it offers hardcore boaters deep water dockage and quick access to Islamorada's famed fishing grounds through the Keys' last Draw Bridge.  If you have a Hatteras or other large boat this is the community for you!

As one of Islamorada's most in demand communities, Venetian Shores is always tops on everyone's list. Only minutes from Miami, yet a world away.

101 San Remo Drive, Islamorada

List Price: $1,377,000

4 Bedroom / 4 Bathrooms

Mile Marker 86

Description: VENETIAN SHORES WATERFRONT 4/4 custom home with DOCK & DAVITS offering near instant boating access to BOTH the OCEAN and BAY. Spacious and elegant Islamorada home with gleaming wood floors, breezy porches, custom eat-in kitchen with granite counters and central cooking island, family room, dining room, and a great room with fireplace and soaring ceilings. Garage & downstairs guest quarters.  Offered by Coldwell Banker.


View Detailed Brochure With Photos
View Available Venetian Shores Homes

Your Conchquistador is Now a Rotarian!! A Proud Member of The Upper Keys Rotary Club.

Today, your Conchquistador had the distinct Honor to have been inducted into the Upper Keys Rotary Club.

A unique honor for sure, having been invited, sponsored and finally brought into the fold.  It gives me great pride to be associated with some of the most distinguished professionals and community leaders in all of the Florida Keys.

Now, Groucho Marx once said, "I wouldn't   part of any club that would have me as a member", but here I must disagree.  Rotary is an International Club of individuals who to seek to give back to their communities.  In our Club's case, we put a very high emphasis and  focus on Education, helping those, both young and old, to better themselves by enriching their minds and spirits so that they too may one day give back to their community, and around and around it goes.  Our club is known for its generous scholarship giving.

The other thing our club is well known for is the Gigantic Nautical Flea Market!!! That buzzing Bazaar of Maritime trinkets, vessel goods, and fishing ammo sure to help you land the big ones,  held in Islamorada every year right after the Miami Boat Show.  This mammoth production is the feather in our club's cap, providing a fantastic treasure trove of funds to share with our community. All organized and produced by our Club's volunteers.

So, I look forward to jumping in, as the delicate bull in the china factory that your's truly is, and offering my insights, opinions, and efforts and service to continue to make this outstanding group the best that it can be.  The Club meets every Tuesday for Lunch at Craig's Restaurant in Islamorada

I must as well give a special Thank You to Bette Brown of First State Bank for being my Sponsor.

Now, if I can only someone will teach me the secret handshake.
What??? There's no secret handshake???
Groucho!!!!!!

Put the experience and expertise of The Conchquistador to work for you! For more information on the outstanding real estate opportunities that exist in the Keys, call me at 305.439.7730 or email me at DropAnchor@TheRealEstateConch.com.

Ready to create your own no-hassle shopping cart of available Properties in the Florida Keys, with multiple search capability? Click here: Conchmls.com .

For Our Clients We Are Holding Our First , Reel Appreciation Invitational - Family Fun Fishing Tournament In The Florida Keys! A Tournament, a Party and Most Importantly A Thank You!

A Tournament, a Party and Most Importantly A Thank You

The Reel Appreciation Tournament is an exclusive invitation-only event open to  American Caribbean and Marr Property Buyers and Sellers and their family. 

This is an Upper Keys Event.

Our goal is to extend our appreciation to all of our clients. Our business success depends on you. The Florida Keys is a special place filled with special people. We aim to have fun while enjoying the waters of the fabulous Florida Keys

Let's get fishing!

Two event filled days starting with Friday night's Captain's Meeting and Cocktail Party complete with a cooking demonstration by Chef Ben of the the famous Ziggie & Mad Dog's restaurant featuring delicious and easy preparation of local fishes of the Florida Keys.

A fun filled day of fishing for everyone in the family. Head out for the day into the Florida Keys Bay Backcountry or the Atlantic's Offshore, fishing for your favorite species. Earn tournament points with the fish that you catch for the day.

Saturday night's Award Dinner will give you the chance to socialize and relax with the choice of cooking your own catch or enjoying a delicious paella dinner. Either way, enjoy the day and the fabulous Florida Keys.

Meet our family of agents at American Caribbean and Marr Properties and allow us to show our thanks to you, our clients.

This is gonna be a blast!!!

Work with an agent who appreciates his clients!! Put the experience and expertise of The Conchquistador to work for you! For more information on the outstanding real estate opportunities that exist in the Keys, call me at 305.439.7730 or email me at DropAnchor@TheRealEstateConch.com. 

Ready to create your own no-hassle shopping cart of available Properties in the Florida Keys, with multiple search capability? Click here: Conchmls.com .

Holding An Oscar ...In the Keys...and Watching a Really Deserving Family Get a Home... Does It Get Any Better???

I'd like to thank the Academy, my Agent, and Harvey Weinstein....

With Producer Jon Landau's Oscar for Best Picture, Titanic.

OK, OK...so it's not MY Oscar but it IS Jon Landau's Best Picture Oscar for Titanic!!

Talk about a great evening!
Saturday was the Habitat for Humanity of The Upper Keys' Annual Cocktail and Fundraising Party, this year hosted by Uber Film Producer Jon Landau (Titanic, Avatar, True Lies), at his exquisite Oceanfront Islamorada Estate.

Our firm is extremely active in Habitat, with one of our agents on the Executive Board for Habitat, and our firm co-sponsoring this event.

The Conchquitador's favorite First Mate, Michelle with  Producer Jon Landau

Jon was kind enough to let me pose with his Oscar when he gave my wife and I a private tour of his home to show us the renovations that he recently completed.  What a Super Guy,  and a very valued addition to our local community.

Jon also served as guest auctioneer auctioning off several items that really added to the coffers $$$!

The Food was fantastic, donated and catered by several of our local restaurants such as Tasters, Mangrove Mikes, and Braza Lena. And of course this being The Keys, Alcohol DID flow...and flow...and flow....lol.
Add to this a Beautiful, balmy Keys evening with a hint of a breeze and superb live music.

The real highlight of the evening though, was the extraordinarily gracious thank you given by the Bautista Family who are the recipients of  the first Habitat House to be located in Islamorada.

The Bautistas' New Home!!!

What a story...a hard working family of four who where living in a rental property that had toxic black mold and a landlord who couldn't seem to care less. Their son was consistently ill and times became very tough.
These folks applied to Habitat, went though the screening process, met the criteria, and were offered the opportunity to invest "Sweat Equity" to earn themselves a home. "Sweat Equity" meaning an investment of time, effort and HARD WORK in contributing to the building of this and other Habitat homes.

Now, Habitat has minimum guidelines on how much time, hours and effort are needed to qualify to earn a home.
The Bautistas invested 5 Times the minimum of Hours!!!! Almost 2500 hours!!!  Talk about grateful, and most of all, talk about DESERVING!!!

So yes, a wonderful evening indeed, with a fantastic feeling of giving back!

So again, I would like to thank the Academy, My Producer Jon Landau, My Agent American Caribbean, Habitat for Humanity of The Upper Keys, and most of all ...The Bautistas.

I'm The King Of the World!!

Work with an Award Winning Agent .  Put the experience and expertise of The Conchquistador to work for you! For more information on the outstanding real estate opportunities that exist in the Keys, call me at 305.439.7730 or email me at DropAnchor@TheRealEstateConch.com.

Ready to create your own no-hassle shopping cart of available Properties in the Florida Keys, with multiple search capability? Click here: Conchmls.com .

Just Closed in Prestigious Venetian Shores - Waterfront Home Originally listed at $1.4M now Closed at $950,000!

I Love Venetian Shores. It's one of my favorite Keys Communities. With its 11 peninsulas reaching out into Snake Creek like fingers thirsty to drink in the sea, it offers hardcore boaters deep water dockage and quick access to Islamorada's famed fishing grounds through the Keys' last Draw Bridge.  If you have a Hatteras or other large boat this is the community for you!

As, a Venetian Shores Specialist, I enjoy keeping my clients up to date with the latest available properties and real estate news, as well as recently closed properties.

As one of Islamorada's most in demand communities, Venetian Shores is always tops on everyone's list. Only minutes from Miami, yet a world away.

Now finding a sub- 1 Million Dollar property in Venetian Shores is becoming increasingly difficult.  That being said today's property is a very good catch indeed.  Originally listed for $1,400,000 and now Closed at $950,000!

112 Stromboli Drive, Islamorada

List Price: $1,100,000 / Sold Price: $950,000

Original List Price: $1,400,000

4 Bedrooms / 4 Bathrooms

Mile Marker 86 Bayside

Description: OUTSTANDING WATERFRONT FAMILY HOME! This spacious & completely remodeled home offers living space for a large family with a 2 bdrm, 2 bthrm, apartment downstairs and 2 bdrms & 2 bthrms upstairs. Outstanding entertaining back yard with a tiki hut and 70 ft. of concrete dockage w/davits, fish cleaning station, & a 2 car garage. Located in beautiful Venetian Shores with direct bay and ocean access.

View Detailed Brochure With Photos

View Mapped Location

View Available Venetian Shores Homes

View Available Islamorada Waterfront Homes $750K -1M

Work with one of the only agents to actually sell Property in Venetian Shores Last Year!  Put the experience and expertise of The Conchquistador to work for you! For more information on the outstanding real estate opportunities that exist in the Keys, call me at 305.439.7730 or email me at DropAnchor@TheRealEstateConch.com.

Ready to create your own no-hassle shopping cart of available Properties in the Florida Keys, with multiple search capability? Click here: ConchMLS.com .

Hollywood Comes to The Keys for Charity! Producer Jon Landau Opens His Exquisite Home for Habitat Cocktail Party.

WOW, This is exciting!! I am so Very Excited to be going to this event!!

This Friday Night, March 2nd, Mr. Jon Landau, One of Hollywood's  all time most successful film producers and Keys resident is opening his very own Keys Estate to host the Habitat for Humanity's Cocktail Benefit, co-sponsored by our firm American Caribbean Real Estate.

Mr. Landau is partners with uber film director James Cameron, and has won Academy Awards and Golden Globes for the films, Titanic and Avatar, two of the most successful films of all time.  And I must say he is just one of the most down to Earth Guys you will ever meet, and has become a very active Keys Resident.

Our firm, American Caribbean Real Estate, recently sold him the beautiful Bali High Estate on Plantation Key. 

He apparently fell in love with the Keys while filming Arnold the Governator's film, True Lies, wherein Jaime Leigh Curtis had that famous Helicopter scene off the old 7-Mile Bridge.

Tickets are still available and proceeds go to a great cause.  So come out, and hang with Hollywood Elite!!

Ready to be treated like a star??? Put the experience and expertise of The Conchquistador to work for you! For more information on the outstanding real estate opportunities that exist in the Keys, call me at 305.439.7730 or email me at DropAnchor@TheRealEstateConch.com.

It's Time for Stats!!! February's Numbers are in, Upper Keys Sales and Listing Figures

So, as we close the books on February, some interesting numbers come to light for The Upper Keys.
In comparing last years' numbers to this February's we find that though the quantity of sales went down slightly, the average sales price went up 26.2% !!!
We also see that the quantity of listing that came on is up dramatically meaning more inventory and that the average list price has jumped  15.7%.
This should certainly answer the "have we hit bottom yet?" question. Yes, yes we have, some while back.
And like gas prices, property prices are going UP!! Buy em now while you still can!

Work with an Agent who KNOWS how to interpret the numbers!  Put the experience and expertise of The Conchquistador to work for you! For more information on the outstanding real estate opportunities that exist in the Keys, call me at 305.439.7730 or email me at DropAnchor@TheRealEstateConch.com.

Ready to create your own no-hassle shopping cart of available Properties in the Florida Keys, with multiple search capability? Click here: Conchmls.com .

Just Closed - Angler's Paradise In Prestigious Venetian Shores - Was $1,975,000 now closed at $1,275,000!!

Venetian Shores is one of my favorite Communities in The Keys.  
What's not to love?  Islamorada at its finest.  Super wide and deep canals that can offer safe harbor for broad beamed boats.  Large spacious lots that provide enjoyment on the peninsulas that stretch out into Snake Creek like elongated fingers thirsty to feel the current.  And location??? The First Rule in real Estate!  Not to far from the mainland, not too far from Key West, quick proximity to both Ocean and Bay,  The Keys are yous!! Just waitng to be enjoyed to their fullest
.
Do I like Venetian Shores??? Oh yes...Oh Yes I do!!!
Here is the most recent sale, and a very nice deal indeed.

107 Valencia Drive, Islamorada
List Price: $1,400,000 / Sold Price: $1,275,000
Original List Price: $1,975,000

3 Bedrooms / 2.1 Bathrooms
Mile Marker 86 Bayside

Description: Anglers Paradise! Room for your yacht! This architecturally designed 3 bedroom 2.5 bath home features media room with wet bar, guest quarters, 2nd floor private master suite, plus entertaining waterfront patio! Property is being offered with 70 X 100 permit ready adjoining lot with dockage totaling 140 feet of water frontage! Immediate access to ocean and bay!
View Detailed Brochure With photos


View Mapped Location

View Available Venetian Shores Homes


View Islamorada Waterfront Homes $1-2M
 
Put the experience and expertise of The Conchquistador to work for you! For more information on the outstanding real estate opportunities that exist in the Keys, call me at 305.439.7730 or email me at DropAnchor@TheRealEstateConch.com. 

Ready to create your own no-hassle shopping cart of available Properties in the Florida Keys, with multiple search capability? Click here: ConchMLS.com .

Open up Your Wallets Because There Are Fantastic Deals to Be Had!! It's Time for the 17th Annual Gigantic Nautical Flea Market in Islamorada!

It's This Weekend!!!!
Do you need bumpers for your boat?  New rods or reels??? A spinnaker perhaps???
How about snorkel gear, davits or a boat lift???
If you do, or even if you don't  you've GOT to check out the 17th annual Gigantic Nautical Flea market this Sat and Sun the 25th  and 26th at Founders Park in Islamorada, produced by the Upper Keys Rotary Club.
There's something for everyone.

This is always a fantastic event and strategically scheduled for the weekend after the Miami Boat Show.   Because this Flea Market has become such a nationally recognized event, many vendors who attend the Miami Show stay an extra week and join ours!

So from home decor items to nautical jewelry to the nut's and bolts (and I do mean that literally) of boat maintenance, there are deals to be had and you're gonna love it!

For more information, visit giganticnauticalfleamarket.org

Work with an agent with an eye for value!!  Put the experience and expertise of The Conchquistador to work for you! For more information on the outstanding real estate opportunities that exist in the Keys, call me at 305.439.7730 or email me at DropAnchor@TheRealEstateConch.com.

Ready to create your own no-hassle shopping cart of available Properties in the Florida Keys, with multiple search capability? Click here: ConchMLS.com .

Just Closed in Prestigious Venetian Shores - High End Short Sale - Last sold for $2.95M, Now Closed at $1,119,000!!

120 Villabella Drive, Islamorada
Yes...Proof that even the wealthy are having financial woes these days, this property in prestigious Venetian Shores in the Florida Keys was just sold and closed as a Short Sale!

For those of you who may not be aware, in a nutshell, a Short Sale is when the Seller owes more than the Market Value of the Property and their lender agrees to sell it at a loss.  Seller walks away with nothing, no equity, zilch, but they avoid foreclosure, (both are lousy plays but foreclosure trumps Short Sale in the really bad credit department), Lender takes the loss, and takes it as a write off and the Buyer often times gets a good value.

This one is a really sweet deal, considering that they paid $2,950,000 in 2006!!
And Now it has Closed for $1,119,000!!

The deals are out there...just gotta find them!

120 Villabella Drive, Islamorada

List Price: $1,195,000 / Sold Price: $1,119,000
Last Sold Price: $2,950,000 in 2006

4 Bedrooms / 3.1 Bathrooms

Mile Marker 86 Bayside 

Description: SHORT SALE APPROVED AND CAN CLOSE IMMEDIATELY! ULTIMATE LUXURY! WHEN ONLY THE BEST WILL DO! SUPERIOR HOME IN VENETIAN SHORES. 4BD/3.1BA, GOURMET KITCHEN, PRIVATE MASTER SUITE, ELEVATOR AND COMPLETE GUEST QUARTERS DOWN. 100' OF CONCRETE DEEP WATER DOCKAGE WITH SNAKE CREEK VIEWS AND IMMEDIATE OCEAN/BAY ACCESS. GORGEOUS PROFESSIONAL LANDSCAPING. GARAGE AND PLENTY OF STORAGE.

View Detailed Brochure with Photos

View Mapped Location

View Available Venetian Shores Homes

View Available Islamorada Foreclosures