Area Real Estate News and Market Trends

🏡 Why I Recommend GL Homes’ Valencia 55+ Communities on Florida’s West Coast

If you’re exploring active adult communities in Southwest Florida, you’ve probably heard about the Valencia neighborhoods by GL Homes—and for good reason! As a local agent who’s worked with buyers in all of them, I can confidently say these are some of the best 55+ communities in the region for lifestyle, amenities, and value.

Here’s my take on four standout Valencia communities: Valencia Bonita, Valencia Trails, Valencia Harbor, and the newest: Valencia Sky.

☀️ Valencia Bonita – Bonita Springs, FL

Valencia Bonita was the first "Valencia' on the west coast and it really set the standard. The 45,000+ sq ft clubhouse is gorgeous, and the pool area feels like a luxury resort. Clients love the social scene here—whether it's yoga, art classes, or happy hour by the pool, there’s always something going on. Amenities include eight pickleball courts, eight tennis courts, pool bar, restaurant, full service spa, resort pool, lap pool, 2 dog parks, bocce and an extensive social calendar! 

Valencia Bonita is located on Bonita Beach Road in south Bonita Springs. It's a straight 20 minute drive to the beach; 5 minutes to I-75. There's downtown Bonita to explore, and now with the Logan Extension complete, it's easy to get to Naples.

Valencia Bonita, with 996 homes, is the only west-coast Valencia to offer both attached villas and single family homes. The community is fully built-out so only resale homes are available. Not all homes in this community have impact glass; some have storm shutters instead.

Why I like it: It’s in a prime Bonita Springs location, close to Naples, the beaches and all the fun restaurants in downtown Bonita. There's easy access to I-75, and less than 20 minutes to the RSW airport. The community is complete with mature, beautiful landscaping. There are lots of homes with beautiful lake or preserve views. It's great if you want the full Southwest Florida lifestyle in an established, gated setting!

🌴 Valencia Trails – Naples, FL

Valencia Trails was started as Valencia Bonita was being completed. The 838 single-family homes are Key West style, with flat tile roofs, and more modern finishings. GL Homes introduced some new floor plans, and of course renamed all the plans! The amenities have recently been completed. 

Amenities include a 42,000 sq. ft. clubhouse, resort style pool with beach entry, lap pool, resistance walking pool, in-ground spa, fire pit, 6 tennis courts, 8 pickleball courts, clay bocce ball courts, dog park, poolside shaded cabanas and chaise lounges, fitness room, card rooms, restaurant with indoor and outdoor bars, social hall, nail salon and over three miles of private walking trails.

The community is nearing its final phase, but new construction is still available. When finished, there will be entrance/exits to both Immokalee and Vanderbilt Beach Roads.

Why I recommend it: It has the desire 'Naples' address, which is important to some buyers. I prefer the modern Key-West architecture, but that's a personal preference. Once the Vanderbilt entrance/exit opens, there will be easy access to the beaches and all the fine venues that Naples has to offer. If you want new construction in Naples and a quieter location near preserves and nature, this is a top pick.

🏖️ Valencia Harbor – Fort Myers, FL

Valencia Harbor is a new GL Homes 55+ community, bringing coastal-inspired living to Fort Myers. Located just off Veronica S. Shoemaker Blvd, this 980 single-family development is close to downtown Fort Myers and the Caloosahatchee River, offering access to shopping, dining, and the arts. It is also a quick drive to the rapidly developing Babcock Ranch with its shopping, restaurants and entertainment.

Valencia Harbor is new; only new construction - either custom or spec homes - are available. All homes have impact glass, shingle roofs, and covered/screened patios.The amenities, when completed, will include a 33,000 sq ft clubhouse, restaurant with indoor and outdoor dining, social hall, fitness studio, sports lounge, billiards, arts and crafts, resort-style pool, lap pool, cabanas, fire pit, 12 pickleball courts, 4 tennis courts, a raquet sport pro shop, bocce, event lawn, food truck plaza and dog park.

Why I like it: Valencia Harbor is the most budget-friendly of the SW FL Valencias. It is located in a more rural area, with lots of natural preserves. It is an easy drive to vibrant downtown Fort Myers with music festivals and art shows, and 30 minutes to beautiful Sanibel Island.

🌅 Valencia Sky – Naples, FL

Valencia Sky is the newest of GL Homes’ Valencias on the west coast. Located off Santa Barbara Blvd just south of Davis, the community is only 5 miles from downtown Naples and the Gulf beaches. Valencia Sky is all new construction, single family homes - both custom and quick delivery. Unlike the other Valencias, there are both single- and two-story floor plans. All homes are concrete block with flat tile roofs and impact glass. When complete, there will be 578 homes.

The amenities in Valencia Sky are currently under construction. When complete, there will be a 35,000 sq ft clubhouse with fitness studio, social hall, restaurant and bar, card rooms, sports lounge, cooking studio, and full service spa. Outdoors will be resort-style pool, lap pool, resistance pool, and lighted sport courts with 9 pickleball, 3 tennis and 4  bocce courts. There will also be a pro shop, full time activities director, cold plunge, and dog park.

Why I love it: Valencia Sky has an ideal location, close to downtown, beaches, I-75, and honestly all things Naples! I also like the floor plans with the wide rear sliding glass doors and gourmet kitchens. All of the Valencias in SW Florida have appeal, but Valencia Sky just might be my favorite!

🌟 Why Choose a GL Homes Valencia Community?

GL Homes has set the standard in Florida’s 55+ communities with:

• Gated entrances and beautifully landscaped streets
• Resort-style amenities and large, thoughtfully designed clubhouses
• A full-time lifestyle director curating clubs, classes, fitness, and social events
• Modern homes with smart layouts, high-end finishes, and low-maintenance features
• Quality construction

Whether you prefer the natural serenity of Valencia Trails, the social buzz of Valencia Bonita, the coastal energy of Valencia Harbor, or the future innovation of Valencia Sky, there’s a perfect fit waiting for you on Florida’s west coast. 

On a personal note, I currently live in a custom-built GL Homes property here in Naples - after previously owning another GL Home. I've experienced their quality firsthand, and truly stand behind their craftsmanship and design. I would love to guide you through their communities and help you select your own home here in paradise!

Buying a home is a significant financial decision and securing the right mortgage is a critical component to the process. As you start on your journey to home ownership, one of the key decisions you'll need to make is whether to use a Mortgage Broker or a Mortgage Lender. In a nutshell, a Mortgage Broker can offer you a wider choice of options and streamline the process while a Mortgage Lender may give you more control with less cost. Let's explore the pros and cons of both!

Pros of Using a Mortgage Broker:

1. Expertise and Guidance: Mortgage brokers are financial professionals with in-depth knowledge of the mortgage market. They can guide you through the complexities of loan options, interest rates and lender requirements, ensuring you can make a well-informed decision.

2. Access to Multiple Lenders: One of the primary benefits of using a mortgae broker is their access to a wide network of lenders. Instead of approaching individual banks, a broker can present your application to various lenders, increasing your chances of finding the most favorable terms.

3. Time and Effort Savings: Shopping for a mortgage can be time-consuming and, quite honestly, a bit verwhelming. Mortgage brokers streamline the process by doing the legwork for you. They can compare loan offers, negotiate terms and handle paperwork, thus saving you time and effort.

4. Customized Solutions: Mortgage brokers work to understand your unique financial situation and goals. They can tailor mortgage solutions to fit your specific needs such as credit history, income and future financial plans. 

Pros of Going Directly to a Mortgage Lender:

1. Familiarity and Loyalty: If you have an existing relationship with a bank or credit union, you may feel a loyalty towards them or feel more comfortable working directly with them. 

2. Direct Communication: When you work with a lender directly, you have the advantage of direct communication. You can discuss terms, negotiate rates and get a first hand understanding of that lender's requirements.

3. In-House Products: Some lenders offer exclusive, in-house mortgage products that may come with unique benefits or incentives, such as closing cost assistance if working with a builder's chosen lender.

4. Potential Cost Savings: While mortgage brokers earn a commission, going directly to a lender may eliminate the broker's fee. This could potentially result in cost savings.

Deciding between a mortgage broker and working directly with a lender depends on your preferences, priorities and individual circumstances. Both options have their merits. The key is to choose the path that aligns with your goals. It never hurts to compare options, and of course, be sure to ask your real estate professional if they have any broker or lender recommendations!

I moved from Minnesota to Naples in 2016 to - let's be honest - escape the miserable Minnesota winters. I had always  dreamed of living in the tropics. When the stars aligned for the move, I jumped! Or rather, I drove. 3 days. 3 kids. 3 cats. After being here for 7 years, I'd like to share why I love Naples so much!

1. Tropical plants & animals. Naples is surrounded by lush, tropical landscapes whether natural or planted. There's an abundance of palm trees (I still don't know all their names) and huge, really awesome birds! The alligators are fascinating, the otters are entertaining, and the armadillos are just plain weird! There are so many parks to explore. The Botanical Gardens are enchanting, especially during the holidays. If you don't mind rustic, which I don't, the CREWS trails show the natural beauty of Florida. 

2. Sugar sand beaches. Naples is known for its pristine white-sand beaches, crystal clear water and warm Gulf temperatures. While those living here don't spend time at the beaches like vacationers do, we absolutely appreciate what we have! It's not ususual to find me watching a sunset or spending a Sunday morning walking on the beach. I will admit I am guilty of "tomorrow is a better day", but I absolutely love living near the water! My daugher and I were recently certified for scuba. The water was so warm we didn't even need a wetsuit.

3. Safety. Naples is known for its low crime rates. While it's important to always be aware of your surroundings and make good choices, I feel comfortably at home knowing we have a strong sense of community and excellent law enforcement.

4. World-class Dining. Naples is home to some of the finest restaurants in the state! We have a wide range of cuisines, both international and local. Depending on the mood, I can find exceptional Thai or Mexican or Italian! I love meeting friends on 5th Avenue (so many great options!) or celebrating happy hour at Mercato. I have several tried-and-true favorites, but I am always up for trying new places and am seldom disappointed!

5. Thriving arts scene. Naples is known for its exceptional arts community. We have galleries, theater and performing arts. We have local dance companies as well as traveling productions! Bonita Springs' Center for the Arts and the Barbara Mann Theater are just a short drive away, and of course we are home to Artis, the Gulf Shore Playhouse and the Sudgen Community Theater. My favorite is the local dance studios' holiday performances at Mercato!

6. Schools. I'm not sure why Florida seems to have a bad reputation for education. My kids excelled in the local public schools, and are currently attending excellent Florida universities. If you are thinking of moving here and for some reason are stuck on education, please check out GreatSchools.com or SchoolDigger.com. I think you will like what you see! We have a wide range of options for public, private and charter schools!

7. Clouds. I don't know why I am so fascinated by clouds, but I am. The clouds here seem to be lower, more dramatic, more intense. I love watching our storms roll in. You can literally see the wall of water coming at you in the summer! And then 2 hours later, it's sunny again!  :)

We all have reasons why we choose to live where we live. I love Florida and would welcome the opportunity to show you why I love being a Floridian!

One of the common questions I am asked by people relocating to SW Florida is about our school system. As a mom, I completely understand! Schools can be one of the more important factors when choosing a new home. While my kids are now in college, they grew up in the Collier County public school system and it was a fantastic experience! I feel like I can speak well to our schools.

Collier County and Lee County are 2 separate school districts. Collier County consists of Naples, Marco Island, Immokalee & Ave Maria while Lee County encompasses Bonita Springs, Estero, Fort Myers, Fort Myers Beack, North Fort Myers & Babcock Ranch. In Collier County, children attend the school for which their home is zoned. In Lee County, however, there is school choice based on which zone the home is in. The County is divided into 3 zone, with each zone having 3 sub-zones. Families then rank their choices within those zones. There are also options within each district to open enroll depending on availability. More information on boundaries and zoning can be found on the school districts' websites.

Collier County Schools

Lee County Schools

Here in Collier County we have about 48,000 students attending 31 elementary schools, 10 middle schools and 8 high schools! There are also 13 alternate school programs and a virtual school. We are super excited about our new high school currently under construction - Aubrey Rogers High School! 

If you are looking for a smaller school or one that aligns with your personal values, you may want to consider one of our private schools. Below are a few of our more well-known schools:

• First Baptist Academy
• The Village School
• Community School
• Seacrest Country Day School

We have quite a few charter schools, a public (free) school which receives government funding but operates outside of the school district:

• Mason Classical Academy
• Collier Charter Academy
• Naples Classical Academy

There are also a great number of homeschooling families here. Connections can be found online or chatting with other homeschooling families.

The Lee County School District is the 9th largest district in Florida and the 34th largest in the US! They education over 90,000 children with a staff of over 12,000 full-time and part-time employees. They have 96 traditional schools and 119 schools with charters. 

School spirit is very strong here. Most schools have a wide range of opportunities for sports and personal interests in both middle school & high school. Sports compete not only with other local schools, but many of our sports teams make it all the way to state.

So if you wonder if we have kids here in SW Florida, I believe you found your answer! I'll address more on schools in future blogs. I'd love to tell you about our new high school.