There are lots of new ideas, thoughts, theories and trends regarding the new reality we all face in the real estate industry....now is the time to get creative. We came up with our own process: while observing CDC guidelines on social distancing, BAREFOOT BEACH PROPERTIES is still able to help you sell your Florida property or find your dream home, since real estate offices are providing an "essential service" according to DHS guidelines:

We understand that nothing can replace that feeling of excitement and the emotional experience of ‘love at first sight’, but the real estate industry is working harder than ever to try to replicate that experience in a virtual setting. The new tech age offers a plethora of tools for realtors to help buyers get that ‘almost being there’ feeling, and sellers the opportunity to get showings without repeatedly exposing their homes to in-person visits.

Photo Credit: Francesca Tosolini

Virtual Reality Home Buying / Selling Guide

1. ‘Tele-Realtor’ Consultation: at your convenience, we can schedule a conference call to discuss your real estate goals: buyers preferences or sellers criteria.
2. Interactive Portal: We will email you a link to your personalized interactive real estate portal, with a list of homes that fit your requirements and desires, including all relevant information, as well as photos and virtual tours, or an automated comparative market analysis (“CMA”).
3. Real Time Updates: As new matching properties come to market, your portal or CMA is automatically updated in real time.
4. Live Property Tours: We can remotely arrange a live tour of any property you wish to explore further, via WhatsApp, Skype or Facetime.
5. Offers: If you wish to make or accept an offer, you can sign all documents online on your iPad or PC.
6. Escrow: A local attorney of your choice can remotely handle the escrow and closing on your behalf, including notarization of signatures.
7. Inspection: A licensed inspector of the buyer’s choosing can inspect the property and provide all parties with a detailed written report on all findings including photos, and then perform a pre-closing final walkthrough on the buyer’s behalf, in order to ascertain that the seller had all required repairs completed.
8. Remote Closing: Upon closing, the buyer’s attorney will record the deed executed by the seller in the public records and deliver the seller’s keys to the buyer.

The post The New State-Of-Reality For Real Estate Is Virtual appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

How has the luxury real estate market in Barefoot Beach been performing so far in 2020?

The luxury property market in the SW Florida area continues to be strong and 2020 is off to a brisk start. Buyers are starting to lock in some of the gains in their equity portfolios and reallocating those proceeds to their real estate portfolios by purchasing luxury homes. In short, recent gyrations in the stock market have reignited the Naples and Barefoot Beach luxury real estate market.

Photo Credit: www.shutterstock.com

What are buyers looking for in their homes in Barefoot Beach in 2020?

Naples area buyers continue to prefer locations in close proximity to the Gulf of Mexico beaches, like Barefoot Beach or Old Naples, which offer both a small-town quality of life and coastal lifestyle. What has become increasingly important to luxury buyers in SW Florida is new construction, which provides the best protection in a tropical coastal environment.

Are there any new restaurants or other spots in the greater Naples area you’ve been loving lately?

There have been over 15 new restaurant openings in the greater Naples area since 2019. Sadly, I have been too busy this season to try any of them, but I will try to check them out this summer.

Photo Credit: www.shutterstock.com

It’s time for spring break. What is a fun activity in Barefoot Beach and Naples?

It’s all about the Gulf of Mexico beaches here in the Barefoot Beach, Naples, area: boating, jet-skiing, paddle boarding, para-sailing, or just enjoying the SW Florida sunshine, balmy breezes and glorious sunsets over the Gulf. A few examples of the many scheduled events are:

March 7th / Cass Cay Off-Shore Powerboat Race

March 7th / Naples Craft Beer Festival at Bay Front in Old Naples

March 14th / St Patrick’s Day Parade on 5th Ave in Old Naples

March 20-22nd / Marco Island Seafood & Music Festival

The more traditional type of spring break revelry can, of course, be found in nearby Fort Myers Beach, just a few miles up the coast.

The post Cynthia Joannou Talks Real Estate And Fun Things To Do In Barefoot Beach During March appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

Experience the vibrant turquoise blues and translucent aqua as the sunshine sparkles on the Gulf of Mexico; a one-of-a-kind beach-front living experience. Just beyond the gate, find yourself in lushly landscaped tropical gardens. Nestled between the palm trees lies a very special coastal beach house situated on a coveted double lot overlooking the Gulf of Mexico. Escape to your own slice of Barefoot Paradise, a remarkable opportunity to live and play in Barefoot Beach. It’s no surprise that Barefoot Beach is considered one of the top beaches in the USA, with 342 acres of natural preserve, located on a barrier island in the Gulf of Mexico. Pure, pristine and unspoiled best describes this unique beach-front community.

Address: Barefoot Beach, Naples, Florida

Price: $4,200,000

For more information, please contact Cynthia Joannou at 239-273-0666 or cynthiajoannou@gmail.com.

Cynthia Joannou is the exclusive real estate agent representing the Barefoot Beach, Bonita Beach, Bonita Springs, FL real estate market as a member of the Haute Residence Real Estate Network. View all of her listings here.

Photo Credit: BAREFOOT BEACH PROPERTIES

Photo Credit: BAREFOOT BEACH PROPERTIES

The post A Coastal House In Barefoot Beach By Cynthia Joannou appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

Grande Phoenician Naples. Spectacular model residence “Dripping in Style and Finesse” featured in duPont REGISTRY home magazine. Amazing design details and luxurious finishes make this property an absolute showstopper. Hollywood glamour meets Naples Chic, the perfect property to relax. The Grande Phoenician is ideally located in the heart of Naples, Florida, and close to the Ritz Carlton Beach Resort. A gated enclave with dedicated concierge and optional beach club membership to the coveted Floridian Beach Club. The newly reimagined on-site Dunes Plantation Club welcomes owners into a Zen resort-like setting with multiple dining options and gathering spots. Modern guest-suites are available for your visiting friends or family. Enjoy the tropical waterfall pool and state-of-the-art fitness facilities, as well as an extensive tennis center. The private Floridian Beach Club offers five-star resort-style service on the beach. All located in the heart of Naples, close to luxury shopping, fine dining and the arts. Live your best life NOW!

Address: 275 Indies Way, Naples, FL 34110

Price: $1,199,000

For more information, please contact Cynthia Joannou at 239-273-0666 or cynthiajoannou@gmail.com.

Cynthia Joannou is the exclusive real estate agent representing the Barefoot Beach, Bonita Beach, Bonita Springs, FL real estate market as a member of the Haute Residence Real Estate Network. View all of her listings here.

Photo Credit: BAREFOOT BEACH PROPERTIES Photo Credit: BAREFOOT BEACH PROPERTIES Photo Credit: BAREFOOT BEACH PROPERTIES

The post Cynthia Joannou Presents A Spectacular Naples Model Residence appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

Typically thought of as a seasonal winter escape, the Paradise Coast of Naples and Barefoot Beach are becoming increasingly popular as a year-round destination, not only because it’s a natural beauty and endless beaches (almost 20 miles of it), but also because of Florida’s comparatively attractive tax laws. Whatever your reason might be for wanting to live in Paradise, we are always eager to help clients find the perfect spot, where they can enjoy the relaxing Florida luxury lifestyle.

As with most searches...it all starts on the internet. However, pictures on web pages alone simply cannot convey the respective unique vibe, character, advantages or pitfalls associated with each area or neighborhood, which only an insider, who lived there for many years, may know. Therefore, it is still crucial to seek sound advice from a local real estate expert, in addition to doing your research online. Always remember the old adage: the wrong house at the right price is still the wrong house.

In this connection it is important to note, that real estate agents in Florida are permitted to act as “transaction brokers”, unless you specifically retain them in a different capacity, meaning they represent the ‘transaction’ rather than either party exclusively. Thus, for obvious reasons, listing agents are very eager to work with both their sellers as well as the buyer in a given transaction. We always recommend that buyers retain their own Realtor in order to avoid any potential conflicts of interest, particularly since there is no additional cost to the buyer to have their own trusted real estate agent represent them. In fact, your own ‘buyer’s representative’ may be able to help you save money and trouble by negotiating on your behalf and asking questions you would have never even thought of. And that goes double if you are purchasing a new or pre-construction product from a developer.

Photo Credit: BAREFOOT BEACH PROPERTIES℠

Location, location, location...The most in-demand neighborhoods are typically on or very close to the water: case in point, a pristine barrier island on the Gulf of Mexico called Barefoot Beach. Boasting more than six miles of sandy beach and 342 acres of beach preserve, it is the perfect spot in paradise for those seeking solitude and being one with nature. Whether you are looking for a single-family beach house or a condo, either way, you can enjoy unforgettable sunsets overlooking the Gulf of Mexico.

For more lively boating, beach and party ambiance, pick Vanderbilt Beach, a 3 plus mile white sand beach full of activity located between The Ritz Carlton Beach Resort and the ever humming LaPlaya Resort Hotel. This area offers condos with either Beach or Bay views and waterfront single-family homes with private boat docks.

If carefree resort-living is more your style, then Pelican Bay, or its gate-guarded beachfront Bay Colony subdivision, will cater to your every need. A master-planned community with over 3 miles of manicured beach, complete with beach chairs, umbrellas, and beachfront dining. Choose from Gulf-view condos or luxurious single-family homes. Relax on the beach or be active with golf, tennis and fitness center, world-class philharmonic, museum, luxury shopping, and dining, all within the confines of the community.

Photo Credit: BAREFOOT BEACH PROPERTIES℠

If you are looking for even more elegant surroundings, then posh Park Shore Beach and The Moorings offer beachfront condos as well as waterfront homes. Anchored by the Venetian Village shops and surrounded by Bay and Beach, the views are always breathtaking.

The epicenter of the Naples, lifestyle is no doubt the village of Olde Naples and adjacent Aqualane Shores. Here one finds true Florida character and charm, single-family ‘cottages’ along tree-lined streets, blooming bougainvillea, farmers’ markets, quaint boutiques, fine dining, theater, tennis, marinas and of course miles of glorious beach. It’s all about small-town living and walkability.

Located at the very southern tip of Olde Naples is its quintessential crown jewel, Port Royal, which is anchored by its very private Port Royal Beach Club. In keeping with its quirky logo featuring a swashbuckling pirate, this exclave of 703 predominantly waterfront estates big enough to park your private yacht in your backyard, is home to politicians, captains of industry, trust fund beneficiaries, and yes, the occasional ‘privateer’. It’s where the finest and most valuable residential real estate can be found in Naples: Beach Club membership is reserved exclusively for owners in the subdivision, which at a minimum will set you back about $5 million for a mediocre lot or tear-down property. Yet, if you really want to impress your new neighbors, you would probably want to acquire an ever so slightly dated fixer-upper directly on the beach, which could cost you up to $65 million, only to tear it down and build new, of course.

Servicing the transportation needs of those fortunate enough to be able to call Old Naples or Port Royal home, or perhaps their second or third home, the FBO at the nearby local private jet airport (KAPF) offers world-class service and, certainly during the winter months, is one of the busiest in the country. If you are located in the north Naples area, in Vanderbilt or Barefoot Beach, you will probably find the FBO located adjacent to the newly built Southwest Florida International Airport (KRSW) more convenient. For the rest of us, RSW also offers frequent commercial airline service to almost anywhere, assuming you don’t mind stopovers. However, it has added numerous direct flights from the northeast and midwestern states, as well as non-stop service to Europe on selected days.

The post Cynthia Joannou On Finding The Perfect Florida Dream Home appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

Southwest Florida aka Paradise Coast is ideal for outdoor living, so it’s no wonder that luxury home trends continue to move in the direction of a more casual lifestyle with a vacation resort-like ambiance.

Bigger, better and more elaborate outdoor living spaces are trending, becoming an extension of the home itself. The vibe is relaxed, and the goal is to create an Instagram worthy retreat, that rivals the most sophisticated 5-star resort. Gone are the days of the caged-in feeling of the screened-in lanai. Buyers want unobstructed views, open to the sunshine and fresh air, albeit with remote-controlled automated retractable screens.

Indoor and outdoor living areas are now being seamlessly integrated with floor to ceiling walls of sliding glass doors, which effortlessly retract and open the interior living areas to the exterior, and matching flooring materials inside and out. The exterior living space has evolved into a prime gathering spot, complete with multiple lounging areas arranged around focal points, like fireplaces or fire pits and big screen TV for friends and family to enjoy the ‘big game’. Custom-designed outdoor kitchens with elaborate grills, smokers, wood-fired pizza ovens, or flattop gas grills, complete with beverage centers and standalone ice makers, have become the new norm, complemented by stylish patio seating for ‘al fresco’ dining. Pools have become architectural statements, with built-in sun shelves, water features, fire bowls, and integrated spas. Landscaping architects increasingly incorporate indigenous plants, which adds authenticity and comes with the additional benefit of requiring less irrigation and pesticides. The separate pool house, or casita, is making a comeback as a luxury retreat for overflow guests or family, offering the ultimate in privacy.

Photo Credit: Michael Berio

Interior design trends for 2020 include a resort-chic vibe and casual open-concept floorplans. High volume ceilings together with lots of oversized windows bring in lots of natural light. While the kitchen continues to be the heart of the home, it has evolved into a spectacular focal point designed to make a statement, featuring oversized islands, a La Cornue range, multiple professional glass door refrigerators, bespoke European cabinetry, appliances, and hardware. A separate butler’s pantry, outfitted with freezers, wine coolers, the obligatory Miele built-in espresso maker, dishwashers and sink prep areas, has become a ‘must’. Adjacent dual master suites are a newly emerging luxury trend, and although not everyone uses both bedrooms, buyers do increasingly desire separate master bathrooms and separate couture-worthy walk-in closets. The master bathroom itself has evolved into a private spa-like oasis custom-designed and meant to pamper, incorporating a massage room, steam room, sauna, outdoor zen-garden shower, or simply a space for your Peloton.

Exterior elevations also have evolved, reflecting a cleaner, less complicated look, smooth stucco walls, flat tile cement roofs, and square windows with minimal or no exterior trim. Tech-savvy buyers must have state of the art AI-driven home automation and energy-efficient ‘green’ features encompassing not only renewable building materials but also high SEER rated HVAC systems, Low-E window packages, and tankless water heaters. Also trending are climatized garages large enough for a collector, complete with a rapid charging station for the electric vehicle of your choice. Finally, no Florida home would be complete without a whole-house generator with an intelligent electronic switching panel, so you don’t even notice when the power goes out.

The service we provide to our clients goes beyond just identifying and acquiring the perfect building lot in paradise. We also assist in assembling the entire project team, consisting of an architect, interior designer, landscape architect, and general contractor, who work seamlessly together to realize our clients’ vision, and we typically accompany our clients throughout their entire journey from groundbreaking to house warming party.

For more information, please contact Cynthia Joannou at 239-273-0666 or cynthiajoannou@gmail.com.

Cynthia Joannou is the exclusive real estate agent representing the Barefoot Beach, Bonita Beach, Bonita Springs, FL real estate market as a member of the Haute Residence Real Estate Network. View all of her listings here.

The post Cynthia Joannou On Home Trends In Southwest Florida For 2020 appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

A Boater’s Dream located in Conner’s Vanderbilt Beach Estates. 74 feet frontage on Vanderbilt Lagoon, panoramic southern and western bay views, plus a private boat dock with Gulf of Mexico access and a new 13,000-pound boat lift. Property features paver circular drive and expansive pool deck area with a large pool. The spacious custom residence offers 4 bedrooms plus den/office, 2 private balconies, and screened terrace. Soaring cathedral ceilings, open concept floor plan with stunning bay views. Interior boasts hardwood and tile floors, gas stove and fireplace and volume ceilings. Located in the heart of Vanderbilt, just a short stroll to the Ritz Carlton Beach Resort and Vanderbilt Beach.

Address: 372 Oak Ave., Naples, FL 34108

Price: $2,900,000

For more information, please contact Cynthia Joannou at 239-273-0666 or cynthiajoannou@gmail.com.

Cynthia Joannou is the exclusive real estate agent representing the Barefoot Beach, Bonita Beach, Bonita Springs, FL real estate market as a member of the Haute Residence Real Estate Network. View all of her listings here.

Photo Credit: BAREFOOT BEACH PROPERTIES℠ Photo Credit: BAREFOOT BEACH PROPERTIES℠

The post Cynthia Joannou Presents A Dreamy Naples Estate appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

Cynthia Joannou is a Broker/Associate and Co-Founder of Barefoot Beach Properties, Naples, Florida, luxury property consultants specializing in coastal residences. Joannou has been a Naples resident since 1998, after living in New York and Germany, and is fluent in German and French. She also has an extensive sales and marketing background, as well as 20 years’ experience as a Naples area REALTOR. Her international background, together with her ability to listen to and understand her clients’ needs, has attracted both buyers and sellers based in the U.S. as well as from Canada, Europe, Asia. Haute Residence caught up with Joannou to discuss Barefoot Beach and her predictions for the real estate market in 2020

What are some predictions you have for the market in 2020?

Photo Credit: BAREFOOT BEACH PROPERTIES℠

2019 was another fantastic year for Barefoot Beach, Bonita Beach and the Naples, Florida, real estate market in general. Pricing has consistently increased year over year, and it has really been a “sellers’ market” since 2016, mainly due to the relatively low inventory levels of properties held for sale. A very strong economy and stock market have continued to fuel demand for luxury properties in our market area, as have the demographics of the baby boomer generation as well as state tax considerations. We expect all of these trends to continue well into 2020, and to more than offset any uncertainties related to the election, and therefore predict that pricing will continue to rise, albeit at a sustainable pace.

How has Barefoot Beach, Bonita Beach and Bonita Springs changed over the last 5 years?

Photo Credit: BAREFOOT BEACH PROPERTIES℠

The visuals of southwest Florida’s Barefoot Beach and Bonita Beach have really changed over the last 5 years. What used to be small wooden beach cottages lining Hickory Blvd. and Barefoot Beach Blvd., are now being torn down to make room for four-level vacation dream-homes with every luxury amenity imaginable. These new “tower” homes often span over 9,000 sqft in total area, have elevated infinity pools and offer magnificent 180 degree Gulf of Mexico views spanning from Sanibel Island lighthouse to the north to the skyline of Naples’ posh Park Shore Beach to the south, all within steps of the powdery white sand and the soothing surf of the Gulf beaches.

The post Cynthia Joannou On The Future Of Barefoot Beach appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

Thoughtfully designed with nature in mind. New construction, custom luxury residence created for the Florida Lifestyle. Expansive landscaping & circular drive lead to this architecturally inviting home on premium lot with clean lines & impressive details. Featuring numerous focal points, a welcoming entrance, a spectacular homesite and resort-like outdoor living. The upscale transitional style & walls of impact glass makes the home bright & sunny. Features a grand room, wet bar, gourmet kitchen with gas cooktop, extensive cabinetry, extra-large island & huge pantry. Elegant master suite in a separate wing, spa-like master bath overlooking a Zen tranquility garden. Oversized sliding glass doors transition the interior to the screened-in outdoor living space with several entertainment areas, pool with relaxing spa, outdoor kitchen, fire pit, “eagle watch” observation deck & views of nature preserve. An attached guest house affords comfort & privacy with two guest suites, living room & morning kitchen. Automobile aficionados will appreciate the climatized garages. Bonita Bay, a premier golfing community in SW Florida, with exceptional amenities, private beach club, and marina.

Address: 26161 Woodlyn Dr., Bonita Springs, FL 34134

Price: $3,495,000

For more information, please contact Cynthia Joannou at 239-273-0666 or cynthiajoannou@gmail.com.

Cynthia Joannou is the exclusive real estate agent representing the Barefoot Beach, Bonita Beach, Bonita Springs, FL real estate market as a member of the Haute Residence Real Estate Network. View all of her listings here.

Photo Credit: Barefoot Beach Properties Photo Credit: Barefoot Beach Properties Photo Credit: Barefoot Beach Properties Photo Credit: Barefoot Beach Properties

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