THE REALTY REVIEW

COME HOME TO MARCO ISLAND!

While returning from a vacation trip to the frigid northeast a couple of weeks ago the moment I got off the plane a strong sense of "being home" struck me.

As we drove onto the newly widened and expanded I-75 south toward Marco, I was overcome with all the things I had routinely taken for granted. I was mesmerized by the profound beauty and good sense of order so apparent everywhere. Thoughts like... safe, clean, modern, crisp, blue/green, beautiful, balmy, all raced through my head.

My choice to make Marco/Naples my home resounds as the best decision I've made in my entire life. The driver changed lanes seamlessly and I could have sworn I was dreaming as I admired the beauty. Perfect, yes everything here is perfect. My home/lifestyle is exceptional - my life is complete. I absolutely, positively chose wisely.

Thoughts reeled through my mind as the driver picked up speed and I began to review my last 30 years on Marco Island. OH MY GOD! I've lived in paradise for the last three decades and I’ve loved every second of it.

Though I measure time very differently now, I still cherish every minute, especially those special moments of: spectacular sunrises; awesome sunsets; our unbelievable beaches, the 340 picture perfect days each year; our birds; our clouds; the weather; the boating; the fishing; the golf; the tennis; the continuous fun; the friendly people; our families; the magic.

Speaking of magic, my driver slowed down as we drove over the Marco Bridge to capture that perfect Marco sunset. Goosebumps took over my body. I was in Awe. The "I'm home" feeling was so solid, so real and offered so much security. I was filled with a warm glow. I moved to the perfect place to take charge of my life. I've more than accomplished my goals.

Isn’t it time that you did the same? Life's menu of possibilities will unfold before you. Make the first move. Come home. Do something as outstanding as spending your time well. Live on Marco Island!

I hope to hear from you soon.... there couldn’t be a better time!

Year end final sales figures for all Marco real estate are:

Condos Homes Lots

units sold 295 296 63

avg. price $523K $716K $316K

The average price of condos and homes is below 2004 average prices and about $100K more than 2003 averages. The average price of lots sold in 2009 is only $30K more than the average price of lots sold in 2002. As you can see, the weakest market has been the vacant land/builder lot market. Buyers are saying, “Why build a new home when, in many circumstances, I can purchase one that is near its land value and I can use it until I move here permanently?”

Everyone asks, has the Marco real estate hit bottom yet? Most of the local real estate experts say definitely yes. Prices are at a fraction of what they were and in many instances are 50% or more off the peak. Our present 6 month buying season should clean-up the balance of the short sales, foreclosures and distress properties.

Stop by our main office for your daily updated list of these properties. Yes, the end is near for the good buys on Marco. They are not making any more Marco Islands. We are a very limited commodity. Your window of opportunity is shorter than you think. Now is the time to buy. We will soon be saying goodbye to the good buys.

If you are reading this while vacationing and just don’t have enough time to purchase, plan a 3 day weekend trip after season to work with us.

My 27 years and my brother Mark’s 30 years experience is your best investment. Marco sells itself. We will help you make a wise decision. There is something for everybody in all price ranges and catego

ries.

Call my direct line at 239-592-3000.

Joe Charde - the Guru

February 1st, 2010

www.joecharde.com

The best buys in each category:

10 Inland Homes under $250K

10 Indirect water Homes under $400K

8 Direct Water Homes under $500K

20 Beachfront 2/2 Condos between $350K-$400K

6 Beachfront 1/1 Condos under $250K

8 Inland Lots under $100K