Southwest Florida Popular Destination for NorthEasterners
Properties for sale in Naples and Southwest Florida can easily be located on
www.JohnRWood.com,
or the company can be contacted at 800-349-9999.
Naples and Southwest Florida have always been a haven for Midwesterners because the area’s casual lifestyle and relaxed attitude most resembles that of their home state. In fact, Naples was founded by a group from Kentucky, and several key developers from Ohio, Chicago and other Midwestern areas have played key roles in the development of the area over the years.
Recently, however, the west coast of Florida has become more attractive to Northeasterners who are relocating here in increasing numbers.
Who can blame them? Southwest Florida is the perfect escape from the Northeast’s long, harsh winters and its renowned fast-paced momentum. Residents from New York, Connecticut, Massachusetts and surrounding states have discovered that choosing the more calming environment of Southwest Florida does not mean trading the luxury comforts they’ve become accustomed to up north.
Southwest Florida’s soothing setting, which amounts to less traffic, less noise and less stress, does not mean there is nothing to do. Over the last decade, Naples and the surrounding cities of Bonita Springs, Estero and Marco Island have transformed from sleepy, beachfront communities into sophisticated settings. While the area has always been known for its comfortable year-around weather and outdoor recreational activities, including world-class golf, it has since added tony shopping and sensational dining to its list of things to do.
Meccas like Mercado, Coconut Point and Gulf Coast Town Center have joined long-established shopping and browsing destinations, such as the Village on Venetian Bay, The Promenade, Miromar Outlets and Waterside Shops. These locations boast retail names such as Gucci, Tiffany, Guess, Nordstrom’s, Mondo Uomo, Saks Fifth Avenue and Salvatore Ferragamo, plus plenty of restaurant opportunities.
Additionally, the area’s arts and cultural offerings have also evolved giving Northeasterners a taste of home. The Philharmonic Center for the Arts in Naples and the Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall in Fort Myers bring a sampling of big city hits from Rodgers & Hammerstein’s “South Pacific” and Michael Feinstein’s tributes to “West Side Story” and the New York City Rockettes.
Blues, jazz, opera, country, bluegrass, classical----all music styles can be found at locations varying from the Philharmonic to outdoor band shells to simple coffee shops or taverns. Likewise, modern dance, ballet, comedy and other genres can be found in ample supply.
The Naples area has become an artist haven, with hundreds of artists, and key display locations such as the Naples Museum of Art, the von Liebig Art Center and a vast array of art galleries, sure to please even the most discriminating connoisseur.
It would be remiss not to make further mention of the outdoor activities, which are a large draw to those from northern areas. Golfing is renowned, with the Naples area laying claim to the most golf holes per capita. For those who are not golfers, there are still many choices. Boating, fishing, swimming and the beach are always popular … likewise for walking, biking and tennis. Nature hikes in the areas around the fabulous Everglades are always interesting. The bottom line is that it’s hard not to be outside when the weather is so beautiful.
Of course, there’s nothing like a spring training baseball game on a beautiful sunny day, which explains why the Boston Red Sox games are so popular. In fact, a new stadium is currently under construction for the team. Few areas can boast two spring training teams, but Southwest Florida has the Red Sox and the Minnesota Twins.
Beyond the entertainment choices and host of activities, those from the Northeast are also enjoying the tax benefits of Florida, including the Homestead Exemption which entitles homeowners to a significant tax break. The lack of a state income tax is perhaps the most compelling of all, reportedly helping to attract celebrities, sports stars and especially non-famous people to the state.
Southwest Florida is attractive for a number of reasons, which is why it is not surprising that the area is becoming increasingly popular as a desirable place to relocate or to retire.
John R. Wood Realtors has been helping people find their dream homes in the area for over 50 years. Traditionally, the company assists many Northeasterners who start with a second home, eventually changing it to a permanent location. Today, however, increasing numbers are bypassing the second home stage and making Florida their “primary residence” (refer back to no income tax!), and spending 7 to 12 months in the area.
Properties for sale in Naples and Southwest Florida can easily be located on www.JohnRWood.com, or the company can be contacted at 800-349-9999.
