Posted on Friday, January 13, 2012
Well, I like facts but sometimes it is fun to get the mood of the place. Naples real estate facts for 2011 were rising median prices, less inventory and modest gains in sales volume. I like facts – the numbers show the real estate market is moving again. As they say “past performance is no guarantee of future success” but so far so good.
But there is a soft side to markets too – emotions that propel or slow it down. Take the merchants on fifth avenue south, or the fuel dock person on Naples Bay, or the restaurant owners up at Mercato. The benefit of living down here full-time is I can just chat these folks up and ask them how it’s going. Current result? Pretty good. These folks are a naturally optimistic bunch or they would not be in business so you need to discount their views somewhat but on the whole there is a feeling of optimism in the air.
Traffic. Another good measure of our local market. Despite the headaches, in season traffic is a measure for tourism, seasonal visitors, and economics. How are we doing? We would say just OK – traffic is heavy, folks are here, but traffic is a little lighter than 2004 levels. Caution from up north is still out there, maybe some are reluctant to come on down despite our glorious weather and lifestyle – at least that is how it feels.
The latest Fed Beige Book is another source of anecdotal views. This source is positive. Florida Realtor reported yesterday “The latest Beige Book report from the Federal Reserve once again has the Sunshine State avoiding the general gloom hitting the housing industry throughout the Atlanta district, which spans the Southeast. While brokers in the region said November and December brought “soft” home sales, Florida said sales actually “rebounded” after a brief soft patch. The reason: international buyers and cash deals.” The report goes on to say “Most districts reported somewhere between “modest” and “moderate” growth, suggesting the recovery is holding steady.”
Floor traffic at the office – another good measure. You know what floor traffic is in our trade … I sit at the desk at the front door of Coldwell Banker on 5th avenue in Naples and look forward to meeting interested buyers and sellers. How is this going? Pretty well thank you. I am meeting some very nice people, some interested buyers, and in general people are enjoying Naples and feeling pretty good about things. Feels Ok.
Anecdotal evidence. Fun to speculate and learn from it. I still prefer numbers but it is nice to be a local Naples real estate professional and learn from on-the-ground observation. Oh yes, and while I am out there observing for business – we are all working in an a beautiful place thank you very much!
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No legal or investment advice or suggestions are being given in this Blog. Actual real estate price and sales results are subject to market forces and are not completely predictable. Please consult a lawyer or investment advisor for such legal and investment advice. The writings of this Blog are intended for the sole use of our clients.
Mark Goebel, PA is a REALTOR with Coldwell Banker on 5th avenue in Naples, Florida with 35+ years of visiting and living in Naples. After 25 years at Accenture, Mark retired as a managing director and spends his time helping non profits and building a Naples real estate team with his wife Nan. Talk to Mark and Nan about life in Naples and why they chose this place to live full-time over all others and enjoy Naples real estate.
Mark Goebel, PA
REALTOR
Mobile: 239.595.3921
Email: mark.c.goebel@gmail.com
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