Cape Coral has a new restaurant worth knowing about.

El Jardín opened quietly on Cape Coral Parkway on June 18, 2026. There was no massive grand opening or flashy campaign. That low-key arrival fits the team behind it.

Local restaurateur Brad Cozza, known for OISE Japanese Fusion and the Escondido Lounge, created El Jardín with a clear focus: fresh ingredients, careful cooking, and bold flavors that speak for themselves.

A Garden-to-Table Dining Experience

El Jardín sits at 1227 Cape Coral Parkway East in Cape Coral.

The name means “the garden,” and the restaurant carries that idea throughout its menu. The kitchen partners with Southwest Florida farms, ranchers, and fisheries to source many of its ingredients.

The team makes each dish from scratch and cooks without industrial seed oils. Instead, the kitchen uses premium cold-pressed avocado oil and traditional beef tallow.

That may sound like a small detail, but it shows how much thought goes into every plate.

Latin Flavors Meet Japanese Craft

El Jardín blends Latin American flavors with Japanese cooking styles.

Some restaurants use the word “fusion” for menus that feel scattered. El Jardín takes a different path. The flavors work together in ways that feel fresh, creative, and natural.

The spicy tuna crispy rice makes a strong first impression. It features bright yellowfin tuna, house-made aioli, fresh scallions, and a crisp rice base.

The hand-folded empanadas come with two filling choices:

• A rich four-cheese blend
• Beef short rib with a miso chili glaze

Another standout is the Cigaros El Jardín. This crisp roll combines mojo pork, smoked ham, and Japanese togarashi seasoning. It may be one of the most creative dishes on the menu.

For the main course, early guests continue to praise the Miso Mojo Beef. The kitchen serves it over cilantro-lime rice with charred bok choy. This is a strong choice for your first visit.

Cocktails Designed With the Same Care

The drinks receive just as much attention as the food.

The Jardin of Eden blends mezcal, celery, Chartreuse, and fresh lime. It offers a smoky, herbal flavor that matches the restaurant’s garden theme.

The Garden Margarita includes a house-made snap pea cordial. It is bright, fresh, and unlike the standard margarita you may find elsewhere.

Each drink feels like part of the full dining experience rather than an afterthought.

Why El Jardín Is a True Cape Coral Hidden Gem

El Jardín is still new enough that many people have not heard about it.

It may not have hundreds of online reviews yet, but local diners who found it early are already talking. Reservations through OpenTable are beginning to fill, especially on Friday and Saturday evenings.

This is the kind of restaurant that appeals to people who enjoy great food but still want a place that feels local and personal.

It works well for:

• A quiet weeknight dinner
• Date night
• Dinner with visiting family
• A celebration with close friends
• Food lovers looking for something new

El Jardín feels elevated without feeling stiff. The food is creative, but the restaurant still feels warm and easy to enjoy.

Bring someone who loves finding new restaurants before everyone else does. Just make a reservation first.

El Jardín Practical Details

Address:
1227 Cape Coral Parkway East
Cape Coral, FL

Hours:
Wednesday through Saturday, 5:00–9:00 p.m.
Friday and Saturday hours may run until 10:00 p.m. during the summer.

Reservations:
Reserve through OpenTable or call 239-922-5029. Reservations are recommended.

Parking:
Street parking and nearby parking lots are available along Cape Coral Parkway.

Best time to visit:
Choose a weeknight for a quieter meal. Visit on Friday or Saturday for a livelier atmosphere, but book ahead.

Good to know:

• The kitchen does not use industrial seed oils.
• The restaurant sources proteins from Southwest Florida farms and fisheries.
• Credit cards and cash are accepted.
• Hours and menu items may change as the restaurant moves from summer into fall.

Discover More of Southwest Florida

Restaurants like El Jardín are part of what makes living in Southwest Florida special. Cape Coral continues to grow, but local owners and chefs still create places that feel personal, original, and connected to the community.

At Myers Group FL, we enjoy sharing the restaurants, neighborhoods, and local businesses that make Southwest Florida feel like home.

Luxury Real Estate, Simplified.

Your Monthly Snapshot of Lee & Collier County

By Ron Myers & The Myers Group Team | Myers Group FL

The summer of 2026 is telling a clear story across Southwest Florida: buyers hold the cards right now.

Days on market remain high across all eight market segments, from entry-level Lee County condos to ultra-luxury Collier waterfront estates. Inventory remains healthy, and motivated sellers are the ones closing deals.

Here’s what the numbers show across our market this month.

With 6,307 active listings and homes sitting an average of 116 days before going under contract, Lee County’s single-family market under $1 million is firmly in buyer’s territory.

However, the 96.6% list-to-sale ratio tells us that well-priced homes are still commanding near-asking prices when they sell. Buyers have time to negotiate, but sellers who price competitively from day one are seeing results.

The Lee County condo market under $1 million is one of the most challenged segments in this report. Active listings are averaging 149 days on market, and the list-to-sale ratio is just 94.5%.

This reflects continued pressure from HOA fees, insurance costs, and new Florida condo rules affecting buyer confidence. Sellers need to price with care and prepare for negotiation. Buyers will find strong value and leverage here.

Luxury single-family buyers in Lee County are finding excellent selection, with 1,059 active listings and an average of 161 days on market.

The 92.8% list-to-sale ratio means buyers are negotiating an average of 7.2% below list price. On a luxury purchase, that can represent major savings. This is a strong buyer window for those watching Sanibel, Captiva, Fort Myers Beach, and Cape Coral waterfront homes.

The Lee County luxury condo segment shows the longest active days on market in this report at 181 days.

Still, 177 units have sold, which tells us that right-priced properties are moving. With a 94.9% list-to-sale ratio, buyers are seeing an average savings of about 5% from list price.

Collier County’s sub-$1 million single-family market remains active, with 1,846 homes sold.

At $320 per square foot on sold homes and a 95.9% list-to-sale ratio, buyers are finding better value than we often see in the Naples area. For buyers who have felt priced out of Naples in recent years, this may be a strong time to re-enter the market.

The Naples luxury single-family market is where buyers are finding some of the strongest negotiating power in Southwest Florida.

With 1,270 active listings and an average of 163 days on market, the market clearly favors buyers. At a 91.3% list-to-sale ratio, buyers are negotiating an average of nearly 9% off list price.

On a $3 million home, that can equal about $270,000 in savings.

Similar to Lee County, Collier condos under $1 million are sitting longer, with active listings averaging 141 days on market.

At $305 per square foot on sold units and a 94.5% list-to-sale ratio, value-focused buyers will find options in Naples, Marco Island, and nearby condo communities.

Collier’s luxury condo segment, including Gulf Shore Boulevard, Park Shore, and other high-end condo markets, is showing 171 days on market for active listings.

The 93.6% list-to-sale ratio shows that motivated sellers are willing to negotiate. Buyers who want a Naples luxury condo may have more choices and leverage than they have had in years.

Market Outlook

All eight Southwest Florida market segments are currently showing buyer’s market conditions, based on days on market above 90 days.

That is uncommon. In many softer markets, at least one or two segments still favor sellers. Right now, elevated inventory, insurance costs, HOA concerns, and higher borrowing costs have created a buyer opportunity across many price points and property types.

For Buyers

This is one of the strongest positions buyers have held in Southwest Florida in years. Come prepared, move quickly when you find the right home, and negotiate with confidence.

For Sellers

Pricing strategy matters more than ever. Homes that sell are priced correctly from day one. Overpriced homes are sitting, and later price cuts can cost more than a strong launch price would have.

Ready To Make Your Move?

The Myers Group helps buyers and sellers make smart moves in changing market conditions.

Whether you are buying your dream home in Naples, selling a Cape Coral investment property, or trying to understand what your home is worth in today’s market, we are here to help.

Contact The Myers Group today:
Call or Text: (239) 887-5044
Email: info@myersgroupfl.com
Website: www.myersgroupfl.com

It's been a busy week in real estate news, and not all of it made headlines in ways that are easy to translate into practical advice. Here's what's actually relevant if you're buying or selling a home in Southwest Florida right now.

Sellers: Don't Let a Tax Surprise Derail Your Closing

Southwest Florida has seen remarkable appreciation over the past decade. If you bought your home before 2020, there's a real chance your gain exceeds the federal capital gains exclusion — $250,000 for single filers, $500,000 for married couples. New analysis indicates that roughly 13 million U.S. homeowners are sitting on taxable gains above those thresholds without a plan in place.

The solution isn't complicated, but it does require a head start. Home improvements — kitchens, bathrooms, roofs, HVAC replacements, additions — add to your "cost basis" and reduce the taxable portion of your gain. But you need documentation. Receipts, permits, contractor invoices: gather them before you start pricing the home, not after you're under contract.

We always recommend that sellers connect with a qualified tax professional early in the process. We can make that introduction. One proactive conversation before you list can be worth thousands of dollars at closing.

Rates Are Near 6.6% — And Florida Buyers Are Moving

The Federal Reserve held interest rates steady at its most recent meeting, but mortgage rates actually nudged slightly lower last week — responding more to news of a potential resolution in global tensions than to the Fed's own decision. Rates are currently hovering near 6.6%.

What's encouraging is the Florida-specific data: pending home sales — both single-family homes and condos/townhomes — rose in May. Pending sales are a leading indicator; they reflect signed purchase contracts before closings are recorded. Rising pending sales in May tells us buyers are actively engaging with the market heading into summer.

One thing worth watching: the Fed's new leadership has indicated a preference for fewer public communications ahead of rate decisions. That means less advance warning if rates shift. For buyers who've been waiting, this underscores the value of getting pre-approved now — so you can move confidently when the right home appears.

Congress Just Leveled the Playing Field for Regular Buyers

The 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act cleared both chambers of Congress this week and heads to the President for signature. For individual home buyers, one piece of this legislation stands out: new restrictions on large institutional investors acquiring single-family homes.

Over recent years, institutional buyers — large funds and corporations — have competed directly with individual buyers for the same inventory, often with all-cash offers that are hard to match. These new limits are designed to reduce that pressure and give families and individual investors a more competitive shot at homeownership.

The bill also includes provisions for more flexible FHA appraisal processes, which could make government-backed financing more competitive in situations where multiple offers are on the table.

The full impact will depend on implementation, but the legislative direction is clear: existing resale homes should be more accessible to the buyers they were built for.

The Bottom Line for SWFL

Between rising Florida pending sales, slightly easing rates, and new limits on investor competition, the conditions for buyers and sellers in Southwest Florida are becoming more favorable. If you've been waiting to make your move, now is a good time to get the conversation started.

We'd love to help — whether you're selling a home you've held for years, buying your next chapter in SWFL, or just want to understand what the market looks like in your neighborhood.

Call or text us: 239-887-5044 Or visit: www.MyersGroupFL.com

Myers Group FL specializes in existing resale home sales across Southwest Florida. This post reflects our independent analysis of publicly available market information and is not a reproduction of any third-party article. It is intended for educational purposes and does not constitute tax or legal advice. Consult a qualified professional for guidance specific to your situation.

When you want the clearest picture of what's happening in Southwest Florida real estate, you come to the source — and for over a decade, Myers Group at eXp Luxury has been that source for buyers and sellers across Lee and Collier counties. This month's data reveals a market with deep inventory, motivated sellers, and strategic opportunities for buyers who know where to look. Here is the full breakdown across all segments.

1. LEE COUNTY — SINGLE FAMILY HOMES UNDER $1 MILLION

With over 6,700 active listings and an average of 114 days on market, Lee County's under-$1MM SFH segment is firmly in buyer's market territory. Sellers are averaging a 3.5% discount from list to close, with homes selling near $418K — excellent value for the space (1,815 sq ft avg.). Buyers have time and negotiating leverage; sellers should price sharply from day one to compete in this crowded field.

2. LEE COUNTY — CONDOS UNDER $1 MILLION

The Lee County condo segment under $1MM carries the deepest buyer advantage of any local market this month — 145 average days on market and a 5.4% list-to-sale gap. With nearly 2,845 active condos available, buyers are firmly in control. Investors and lifestyle buyers alike have a compelling window here: motivated sellers, declining cost-per-sqft, and a wide selection of units averaging over 1,400 sq ft in the under-contract cohort.

3. LEE COUNTY — SINGLE FAMILY HOMES OVER $1 MILLION

Lee County's luxury SFH market shows a nuanced picture: while active inventory sits at 150 days — firmly buyer's market — the homes actually closing are doing so in 85 days, a balanced-market pace. This gap suggests that correctly priced luxury properties are moving briskly, while overpriced listings accumulate days. Buyers targeting waterfront and island properties in the $1.7–$2.5MM sweet spot are finding strong value.

4. LEE COUNTY — CONDOS OVER $1 MILLION

Lee County's luxury condo market is seeing solid transaction volume (171 closed) even as active inventory lingers at 165 days. The under-contract average list price of $2.9MM — well above the active average — indicates that premium units are moving faster than the broader pool. Properties at Coconut Road, Pelican Colony, and the Estero Blvd. corridor are driving closings. Buyers willing to commit on quality buildings are finding more negotiating room than this segment has seen in years.

5. COLLIER COUNTY — SINGLE FAMILY HOMES UNDER $1 MILLION

Collier County's under-$1MM SFH segment commands a premium over Lee County — $583K average sold price vs. $418K — reflecting Naples-area land values. With 92 days DOM for closings and a 95.9% list-to-sale ratio, this is among the most active segments in the region. Communities like Heritage Bay, Golden Gate Estates, and Talis Park are seeing consistent activity.

6. COLLIER COUNTY — SINGLE FAMILY HOMES OVER $1 MILLION

Collier County's ultra-luxury SFH market is dominated by Port Royal, Gordon Drive, and Gin Lane estates — with active listings reaching as high as $271M. Despite the headline prices, the market is firmly a buyer's market at 155 days active DOM, and closed sales are averaging $2.55M at $742/sqft. The 6.7% list-to-sale discount gives well-capitalized buyers meaningful negotiating room in this trophy-property segment.

7. COLLIER COUNTY — CONDOS UNDER $1 MILLION

Collier County's condo market under $1MM tells a story of patient inventory and motivated closings. With 2,097 active units averaging 135 days on market and a 5.3% list-to-sale gap, buyers are clearly in the driver's seat. Gulf Shore Blvd., Marco Island, Pelican Bay, and Bonita Beach Road corridors are producing consistent closings in the $735K–$910K range. The $297/sqft sold average represents genuine value for the Naples market.

8. COLLIER COUNTY — CONDOS OVER $1 MILLION

Collier County's luxury condo market is one of the most extraordinary in the country — with Gulf Shore Blvd., Grenadier, Bay Colony, and Vanderbilt Drive assets commanding prices from $1MM to $38MM. At 163 active days on market and a 7.4% list-to-sale discount, buyers with capital have real negotiating power. The 594 closed sales at an average of $2.16M demonstrate that quality inventory is still transacting — precision pricing is the key.

Sanibel Island continues to evolve as a top destination in Southwest Florida, with exciting updates to its dining scene. From the arrival of a brand-new pizzeria to the highly anticipated reopening of a beloved steakhouse, these additions highlight the area’s growth, resilience, and lifestyle appeal.

If you're searching for new restaurants on Sanibel Island, here’s what you need to know.

🍕 Scooters Pizza Sanibel Island: A New Must-Try Spot

A fresh addition to the island, Scooters Pizza officially opened on March 2 and is already gaining attention among locals and visitors.

Scooters Pizza introduces Detroit-style pizza on Sanibel Island, known for its thick, airy crust and crispy, caramelized edges. This unique offering sets it apart from traditional options in the area.

Menu Highlights:

• Detroit-style pan pizza
• Hand-tossed pizzas
• Thin-crust 16-inch pies
• 24-inch New York-style pizza
• Boneless chicken wings
• Gluten-free pizza options

With outdoor seating available and strong demand for takeout, Scooters is quickly becoming a go-to for casual dining. The owners also plan to introduce delivery service and gelato, making it even more appealing for both residents and vacationers.

🥩 Courtside Steakhouse Reopening on Sanibel Island

Another major highlight is the reopening of Courtside Steakhouse, located inside the Sanibel Harbour Marriott Resort & Spa.

After sustaining damage during Hurricane Ian, the restaurant has officially reopened with a refreshed concept and elevated dining experience.

Now operating as a dinner-only steakhouse, Courtside features a reimagined menu led by Executive Chef Jennifer Stinson.

What to Expect:

• Nebraska Black Angus beef
• 22-ounce bone-in ribeye
• Fresh seafood, including miso-glazed sea bass
• Upscale steakhouse atmosphere

The reopening was celebrated with a ribbon cutting by the SanCap Chamber, marking an important step in the island’s continued recovery.

Southwest Florida’s food scene continues to evolve with exciting new openings, beloved comebacks, and fresh concepts worth exploring. Whether you're a local, investor, or planning your next move, here’s what’s happening around Fort Myers, Cape Coral, Sanibel, and Captiva.

🥩 Edgar’s Steakhouse Opens on Sanibel Island

A new upscale dining experience has arrived on Sanibel Island with the debut of Edgar’s Steakhouse. Located at The Dunes Golf & Tennis Club, this restaurant blends refined cuisine with stunning sunset views over the greens.

Edgar’s honors the legacy of architect Edgar Wilson while bringing a fresh, modern touch to the club’s dining experience. Guests can expect premium steaks, elevated dishes, and a rotating menu designed to keep things exciting.

The restaurant officially soft-opened on March 6, welcoming guests to a memorable evening as the sun set across the course.

Hours:

• Lunch: Tuesday–Friday | 11 AM – 3 PM
• Dinner: Tuesday–Friday | 5 PM – 9 PM

🍕 Pizza Parma Brings Authentic Italian Flavor

If you’re craving authentic Italian cuisine, Pizza Parma in Cape Coral is a must-visit. This casual yet flavorful spot blends traditional Italian passion with a modern dining experience.

From crispy, handcrafted pizzas to classic pasta dishes and indulgent desserts, it’s a go-to for both quick bites and relaxed dinners.

Hours:

• 7 AM – 2 PM
• 5 PM – 9 PM
• Closed Sundays

🌅 The Mucky Duck Reopens After Storm Damage

One of Captiva’s most iconic beachfront restaurants, The Mucky Duck, has officially reopened after sustaining damage from recent hurricanes.

This beloved 50-year-old establishment has returned with its signature English pub-style charm—dark wood interiors, cozy ambiance, and a loyal following. While the menu has been simplified, the heart of the experience remains intact.

One notable change: a newly formed 12-foot sand dune now partially blocks the once-famous unobstructed sunset views—but that hasn’t stopped guests from returning to this cherished spot.

🎸 Back Roads: A New Country-Themed Hotspot

Formerly known as Pelican Larry’s, this Fort Myers favorite near Florida Gulf Coast University has been reimagined as Back Roads—a Nashville-inspired country sports bar.

With live music, upgraded interiors, and a broader appeal beyond the college crowd, Back Roads is positioning itself as a lively destination for locals and visitors alike.

Expect a high-energy atmosphere, great drinks, and a fresh take on nightlife in the University Village area.

🌴 Explore Dining in Downtown Fort Myers

Looking for even more options? Downtown Fort Myers continues to thrive as a culinary hub filled with diverse restaurants, waterfront dining, and vibrant nightlife.

👉 Explore all dining options here:
https://www.myriverdistrict.com/explore-category/restaurants/

From casual bites to fine dining, the River District offers something for every taste and occasion.

📍 Why This Matters

The continued growth and revitalization of Southwest Florida’s dining scene reflects the region’s resilience and appeal. New restaurants and reopenings not only enhance lifestyle but also signal strong community and investment opportunities.

Whether you're relocating, investing, or simply exploring—there’s never been a better time to experience everything SW Florida has to offer.

Southwest Florida continues to grow, and with that growth comes exciting new places to eat, gather, and explore. From waterfront seafood to Nashville-style hot chicken and authentic Italian cuisine, here are a few local hidden gems in Cape Coral and Fort Myers worth adding to your must-visit list.

🌊 Waterfront Dining: Bimini Basin Seafood & Cocktails

Bimini Basin Seafood & Cocktails

One of the newest waterfront dining experiences in Cape Coral has officially opened its doors. Bimini Basin Seafood & Cocktails offers a relaxed coastal atmosphere paired with fresh seafood, craft cocktails, and beautiful views of the basin.

This spot is perfect for sunset dinners, weekend brunch with friends, or simply enjoying the laid-back Southwest Florida lifestyle by the water.

Whether you're a seafood lover or just looking for a scenic place to unwind, this new restaurant is quickly becoming a local favorite.

🔥 Nashville Heat Arrives: Dave’s Hot Chicken

Dave’s Hot Chicken

The buzz around town is real—Dave’s Hot Chicken has officially opened its first Fort Myers location, and the crowds showed up immediately.

Known for its Nashville-style hot chicken sliders and tenders with customizable spice levels, Dave’s offers everything from No Spice to Reaper heat for the truly brave.

Located near the busy intersection of Six Mile Cypress Parkway and Colonial Boulevard, this fast-casual favorite is already becoming a go-to spot for bold flavors and quick bites.

🍝 Authentic Italian: Happy Gourmet 17

Happy Gourmet 17

If you're craving authentic Italian cuisine, Happy Gourmet 17 delivers a true taste of Italy right here in North Fort Myers.

Their extensive menu includes:

• Traditional Italian pizza

• Fresh pasta dishes

• Branzino and specialty seafood

• Coffee, pastries, and café favorites

What makes this spot extra fun? Weekend karaoke nights and grill specials, making it a lively place for family dinners or a night out with friends.

The restaurant is also family-friendly and gluten-free friendly, so there’s something for everyone.

🍷 Explore the Dining Scene at Bell Tower Shops

Bell Tower Shops

Looking for variety? Bell Tower Shops offers one of the best dining hubs in Fort Myers, with a wide selection of restaurants, bars, and outdoor patios.

Whether you're in the mood for:

• casual bites

• upscale dining

• cocktails with friends

• or a fun date night

Bell Tower’s collection of restaurants makes it easy to explore multiple flavors in one vibrant location.

🌅 Living the SW Florida Lifestyle

One of the best parts of living in Southwest Florida is discovering new places like these—local restaurants, waterfront hangouts, and community gathering spots that make the area special.

From Cape Coral waterfront dining to Fort Myers food hotspots, these hidden gems are part of what makes the SW Florida lifestyle so enjoyable.

✨ Which one will you try first?

January 2026 opens with a balanced and selective market across Southwest Florida.

Homes are selling.
Luxury buyers are cautious.
Condos remain the slowest segment.

This is no longer a fast market.
It is a decision market.

Is January a good time to buy in SWFL?

Yes — for buyers who focus on value.

Buyers now have:

• More inventory to choose from
• Time to compare options
• Leverage to negotiate

The best homes still sell quickly, but buyers no longer rush.

What is happening in the under $1M market?

The under $1M market remains active but careful.

What buyers are doing now

Under $1M buyers:

• Compare multiple homes before choosing
• Focus on monthly cost, not list price
• Ask for repairs or credits
• Walk away from uncertainty

Buyers move when the numbers make sense.

What under $1M sellers need to know

Single-family homes sell when sellers:

• Price correctly from day one
• Present a clean, move-in-ready home
• Provide roof and insurance clarity early

Homes priced too high sit longer and lose momentum.

What is happening in the luxury market ($1M–$30M)?

The luxury market remains buyer-led.

Luxury buyers are active, but they take their time.

What sells in the luxury market right now?

Luxury homes sell when they offer:

• Strong location (water, view, golf, beach access)
• Updated interiors
• Storm-ready features
• Clear insurance details

Quality still commands attention.

What slows luxury sales?

Luxury sales slow when homes are:

• Priced based on 2022 values
• Dated but priced at a premium
• Poorly presented or poorly marketed
• Unclear on ownership costs

Luxury buyers expect precision.

Why are condos selling slower in Southwest Florida?

Condos are slower because buyers fear unknown future costs.

Top condo buyer concerns in 2026

1. Rising HOA fees
2. Special assessments
3. Reserve funding requirements
4. Insurance costs
5. Financing limits in some buildings

Buyers now underwrite the building first, not the unit.

What are condo buyers doing differently now?

Condo buyers ask:

• Are reserves fully funded?
• Are major repairs coming?
• What is the total monthly cost?
• Is the building financeable?

If answers are unclear, buyers move on.

What should condo sellers do in 2026?

Condo sellers succeed when they:

• Lead with transparency
• Share HOA and reserve documents early
• Price competitively against similar units
• Expect longer days on market

Condos can sell — but not with guesswork.

Cyndi Myers’ January 2026 Perspective

Advice for buyers

• Focus on value, not urgency
• Move quickly on the best homes
• Ask deeper questions on condos

Advice for single-family home sellers

• The first 14–21 days matter most
• Sharp pricing beats later price cuts
• Remove doubt early

Advice for condo sellers

• Price realistically
• Share documents upfront
• Build buyer confidence

What should you do next?

If you want a custom breakdown for:

• Your neighborhood
• Your price range
• Your condo building

Reach out to MyersGroupFL.

We’ll walk you through the numbers clearly and help you make the next move with confidence.

— Cyndi Myers
MyersGroupFL
Luxury Real Estate, Simplified.

Naples, FL – Mark your calendars, Naples residents and beach lovers: the Naples Pier is finally getting rebuilt, and the city is inviting everyone to celebrate the start of construction. The groundbreaking ceremony for the Naples Pier Rebuild Project will take place Monday, January 5, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. at the pier (accessible via the 12th Avenue South beach access). This event will honor the many partners, stakeholders and community members who’ve pushed for the pier’s restoration. Mayor Teresa Heitmann, City Manager Gary Young, and other dignitaries are slated to give remarks and officially kick off the rebuild of this historic landmark. (If you plan to attend, note that the pier’s parking lot at 12th Ave S and Gulf Shore Blvd S will be closed from 7:00–11:30 a.m. to accommodate the event.)

Why this matters: The Naples Pier isn’t just any boardwalk – it’s an iconic landmark, originally built in 1888, that has served as the heart of Naples’ beachfront for well over a century. Locals and tourists alike cherish the pier for fishing, sunset strolling, and community gatherings (over a million visitors enjoy it each year). Sadly, Hurricane Ian in September 2022 dealt a devastating blow to the pier, destroying roughly half its length and all its amenities in one night. Over 30 pilings collapsed and the final 140-foot section fell into the Gulf, while the middle concession and restroom area was completely gutted by storm surge. In the aftermath, city engineers determined that the entire structure had to be replaced for safety – a huge undertaking for the city.

Now, after three years of planning, permitting, and funding efforts, Naples is ready to rebuild its beloved pier. The journey hasn’t been quick: the city had to secure multiple federal and state approvals (from the Army Corps of Engineers, FEMA, and others) and design a new pier that balances modern resiliency with the pier’s classic charm. By late 2025, the pieces finally came together – the final permits were approved in October 2025 and FEMA obligated funding in December – clearing the way for construction to begin. The project’s contract was awarded to a marine construction firm for $23.5 million, with an expected build time of about 18 months once work commences. That means if all goes well, Naples could be enjoying a brand-new pier by mid-2027!

What to expect from the new pier: The rebuilt Naples Pier will look familiar yet improved. Designers from Turrell Hall & Associates and MHK Architecture have created a “new and improved” pier concept that honors the old pier’s look but adds crucial resilience. The new pier will be elevated about 3 feet higher than the old one, with sturdier materials (larger pilings with protective jackets, reinforced decking) to better withstand storms. The layout will still feature a roomy T-shaped end for fishing and gathering, along with middle pavilions for shade and a concession area – all built to modern codes. Importantly, engineers reduced the number of pilings and tweaked the design to minimize impacts on the shoreline and marine environment. In short, Naples is aiming for a pier that lasts longer and weathers future hurricanes better, all while keeping that famous Naples Pier charm.

For the community, the groundbreaking ceremony on January 5th is more than just a photo-op – it’s a symbol of recovery and hope. The pier has been closed (beyond a small section) since Ian hit, and many residents have been eagerly awaiting its return. The rebuild project brought together city leaders, engineers, state and federal agencies (with significant FEMA funding), and of course passionate locals who advocated for “bringing back our pier.” As the first shovels hit the ground, Naples will be celebrating not just a construction start, but the resilience of a community that’s determined to restore a piece of its soul. If you’re in town, feel free to join the festivities on Jan 5th – it’s a chance to witness a bit of Naples history in the making.

Sources: City of Naples announcement; City Pier Rebuild Project update; City of Naples Pier history

Naples, FL – In the world of luxury real estate, Naples–Marco Island just proved it’s a market to watch. Recent data from Realtor.com’s November 2025 Luxury Housing Report shows that the Naples–Marco Island area is one of the fastest-moving luxury markets in the nation. How fast? The top 10% of high-end listings in Naples–Marco are selling in a median of just 65 days, which is 23.5% faster than the same time last year. This rapid pace earned the Naples metro a spot among the country’s top 10 quickest luxury markets for November, highlighting the strong demand for upscale homes in Southwest Florida.

Luxury Market by the Numbers: The luxury threshold (the price at which the top 10% of homes begin) in Naples–Marco is around $3.5 million as of November, slightly lower than last year’s $3.6M. That means a home around $3.5M is just entering Naples’ luxury tier. Nationally, the luxury entry point is much lower – about $1.20 million (90th percentile) – and even that has dipped ~2.3% year-over-year as high-end prices soften in many places. But while some luxury markets are cooling off, Naples is bucking the trend with brisk sales. Homes at the top of the Naples market are moving quickly, likely because sellers have adjusted pricing and ample high-end inventory is meeting steady buyer demand. In fact, local agents note robust interest from affluent buyers, possibly spurred by post-hurricane rebuilding of prime properties and Naples’ perennial appeal as a coastal paradise.

National Context: To put Naples’ performance in perspective, consider the national luxury market: the median time on market for luxury listings nationwide was 78 days in November (about the same as last year). The fastest-selling luxury market was San Jose, CA, where elite Silicon Valley homes sold in a median of 56 days. On the flip side, Bend, OR was the slowest, at 146 days for top-tier homes to sell. Naples–Marco’s 65-day median places it not far behind ultra-hot markets like Riverside, CA and the Washington, D.C. area (57–58 days). It’s clear that luxury real estate is moving at very different speeds depending on the locale – and Southwest Florida is on the speedy side right now.

“Luxury home dynamics are increasingly driven by local factors rather than national trends,” notes Realtor.com’s senior economist. Naples is a prime example: even as the overall U.S. luxury segment shows mixed signals (slower price growth, pockets of oversupply), Naples–Marco Island’s high-end market remains lively. For sellers of luxury homes in Naples, this is an encouraging sign – well-priced estates are finding buyers more quickly than last year, a hint that demand is out there and buyers are decisive. For buyers, it means you may need to act faster when a Naples dream home hits the market, since the most desirable listings (top 10%) are getting snapped up in about two months or less on average.

What’s driving Naples’ luxury momentum? Local realtors cite a combination of factors: Naples’ reputation as a “Paradise Coast” haven, continued interest from out-of-state luxury buyers (snowbirds, remote executives, and those seeking tax-friendly Florida residency), and an uptick in new or rebuilt luxury inventory post-storm that’s turn-key and elevated to current standards. Meanwhile, the slight dip in the area’s luxury price threshold suggests some price adjustments have occurred, possibly making high-end homes a bit more attainable than a year ago. That pricing reality, paired with Naples’ lifestyle allure, is fueling sales. As always in real estate, local conditions rule – and right now Naples–Marco Island’s luxury niche is performing far better than many other markets. It’s a reminder that even in a nationally mixed market, Southwest Florida’s upscale real estate can shine.

Sources: Realtor.com® Luxury Housing Report (Nov 2025); Realtor.com press release Dec 22 2025