Right on the Gulf of Mexico, Olde Naples presents a charming blend of history, urbanity and coastal living. Sprawling to the west of Tamiami Trail toward the shore and reaching The Naples Beach Hotel & Golf Club to the north and the Naples Pier to the south, the enclave is distinctly upscale with world-class residential and commercial opportunities in the midst of a fine shopping and dining mecca.
Haute Residence talked to Dante DiSabato, Naples-based luxury real estate agent with William Raveis Real Estate, to learn more about the neighborhood, whose charm and elegance have enticed high-profile buyers for decades.
What is the history of Olde Naples? How did the community come to be and how is his past reflected in its real estate?
The history of Naples and Olde Naples is still recent even by Florida standards. It was a fishing and hunting destination for wealthy northerners until it became more accessible thanks to the railway and the completion of the Tamiami Trail by county namesake Barron Collier in the late 1920s. But it really didn’t take off until the 1960s with communities such as Port Royal and The Moorings. Olde Naples is the original spot where northern visitors visited and it is still some of the most sought-after real estate in Florida.
What is the architectural style in Olde Naples? Where does it draw inspiration from?
In the last 4-5 years Olde Naples has gone through a transitional phase from Tuscan-style homes to cottage beach homes to now a clean-line, modern feel. New homes have a light, bright, airy feel. I believe the inspiration comes from the amazing architects and designers that we have, which include Stofft Cooney, MHK Architecture, and Kukk Architecture.
How large is Olde Naples compared to other neighborhoods? How is Olde Naples different from the rest of Naples, including in terms of the price of properties?
Olde Naples is approximately 23 Blocks long and 9 Blocks wide until it dead ends into the Gulf of Mexico. What makes it different is the fact that it is comprised of all different types of real estate including single-family homes, condos, villas, commercial, restaurants and retail. The neighborhood I call the Center of the Universe here in Naples is where you can walk to dining spots and the beach/Gulf all in the same day. It is an upscale urban beach lifestyle that people want. There is a wide variety of pricing but I would say it is in the top three of the highest priced markets in Naples, which would also include Port Royal and Aqualane Shores right to the South of Olde Naples.
What should buyers seeking homes in Old Naples be mindful of?
A buyer should keep in mind the location of their property, directional exposure, the builder, and more. I could go on forever discussing what people should be mindful of. However, it all depends on the type of lifestyle that the customer wants. Olde Naples has every type – from private estates to condos above restaurants on Fifth Avenue and Third Street. I would highly recommend finding a downtown specialist that can help them find what best fits their needs.
What are some of the advantages and disadvantages of new-construction homes compared to old, historic houses in Old Naples?
The advantages of new construction homes include builder warranty and the current high-end building codes, which played a huge part in the homes barely even being touched during Hurricane Irma. There is also something to be said about new finishes and updated style!
What types of amenities does Old Naples offer?
Olde Naples offers world-class shops and dinning on Fifth Avenue South and Third Street South. It features many farmers’ markets, parades, and events, such as music and art festivals. It also offers walkability to the beach and the Gulf of Mexico for year-round sunsets. Not to mention it’s a boater’s and golfer’s paradise. It really has it all.
What are your favorite entertainment/dining spots in Old Naples?
Bar Tulia, The Continental, Ocean Prime, and 7th Ave Social.
Dante DiSabato is the exclusive agent representing the Naples, Florida real estate market as a member of the Haute Residence Real Estate Network. View all of his listing here.
The top image depicts 489 1st Ave S, Naples, FL 34102. It is for sale by Dante DiSabato at $4,099,000.
