Hello Clients, Family & Friends,

Greetings from the Florida Keys! October is here, and with it comes a fresh energy across the islands. The days are a touch cooler, the season is shifting, and the Keys are buzzing with excitement as we get closer to one of the most anticipated events of the year—Fantasy Fest. It’s the perfect time to dive into new opportunities in real estate, enjoy community celebrations, and prepare for the busy season ahead.

Whether you're considering a move, keeping an eye on the market, or simply soaking in Keys living, we’re here to keep you informed and inspired.

Thank you for trusting us with your real estate journey. In the Keys, #GoodToKnow isn’t just our signature—it’s how we do business.

Here’s what you’ll find in this month’s update:

• Market insights tailored to your neighborhood

• Our Featured Listing of the Month

• #GoodToKnow Real Estate Updates

• Local events and happenings throughout the Keys

Wishing you a vibrant October filled with new beginnings, community spirit, and plenty of island fun. As always, we’re just a call away!

Here’s to another season of celebration, opportunity, and that one-of-a-kind Keys lifestyle.

We’re committed to keeping you informed about the ever-changing real estate market in the Florida Keys. Our unique chain of islands continues to experience steady and sustainable growth, making it an exciting time for both buyers and sellers. Whether you're considering a move, looking to invest, or simply staying informed, understanding the latest trends can help you make confident decisions in this dynamic market.

As always, staying informed is key in an ever-evolving real estate landscape. Market conditions, pricing trends, and buyer activity can shift quickly, and having access to accurate data ensures you stay ahead. For the most up-to-date market insights, including detailed year-over-year comparisons for each Key, click the image to explore our latest reports.

If you’re looking for a more personalized approach, our team is here to provide a custom analysis of your home, neighborhood, or island. Whether you’re curious about your property’s current value or want a deeper understanding of market trends in your area, keysrealestate.com is your trusted resource for all things Florida Keys real estate.

Welcome to Zen Villa! Located in the heart of Old Town, Key West, and comprised of three homes on a spacious 5,891 SF lot. The main residence at 400 Aronovitz Lane is a luxurious 3-bedroom, 4-bathroom contemporary island estate and an active vacation rental, while 621 and 623 Whitehead Street offer two charming 1-bedroom, 1-bathroom cottages, currently rented long-term. The main home redefines island elegance, welcoming you with an airy lounge boasting 18-foot cathedral ceilings, a chic wet bar with granite countertops, a beverage cooler, and an ice maker. The open-concept living and dining areas flow effortlessly into multiple outdoor spaces, creating the ultimate indoor-outdoor lifestyle. Expansive sliding glass doors open to a tropical poolside oasis designed by Craig Reynolds, featuring a heated pool with a tranquil water feature, lush landscaping, ambient lighting, and a refreshing outdoor shower. The first-floor primary suite is a serene retreat with a spa-like bathroom, marble finishes, and a steam shower. The chef's kitchen is a showstopper, equipped with a large granite island, Sub-Zero and Thermador appliances, and custom lighting. Upstairs, the second primary suite opens to a private covered porch with an outdoor shower. A cozy guest bedroom with a soaking tub provides direct access to a covered patio. Zoned Historic Residential Office (HRO) with an ADA-compliant entrance, this flexible property offers endless possibilities for live-work or investment use. Just steps from Duval Street, Truman Waterfront Park, and Fort Zachary Taylor Beach, the property is situated in the coveted X-Flood Zone and features 3+ off-street parking spaces. Don't miss the chance to own a piece of paradise—schedule your private tour today!

Fantasy Fest Parade of Homes Mega Open House
Thursday, October 23 | 11 AM – 3 PM

It’s that time of year again—our Fantasy Fest Parade of Homes Mega Open House is back and bigger than ever! Join us on Thursday, October 23 as we showcase some of the most stunning properties across the Keys. This one-day event is the perfect opportunity to explore homes, connect with our agents, and see why living in paradise is truly #GoodToKnow.

We’re especially proud to be the only real estate office sponsor of Fantasy Fest, bringing our community together during one of Key West’s most iconic celebrations.

What to Expect:

• Multiple open houses across the Keys, all happening the same day

• A wide variety of properties—from dream waterfront escapes to island retreats

• The chance to meet our team and get expert insights on the market

And that’s not all… attend on October 23 and you’ll be entered for a chance to win 4 tickets to our exclusive VIP Fantasy Fest event on world-famous Duval Street at our Key West office.

Don’t miss this opportunity to celebrate Fantasy Fest while touring some of the Keys’ most incredible homes. For a list of properties visit: Floridakeysparadeofhomes.com

#GoodToKnow: Interest Rates & What They Really Mean Right Now

You may have seen the headlines—interest rates are shifting, and the market is buzzing. While the recent rate cut might seem small, it’s helping create big conversations in real estate.

So, what does it actually mean for you? In short:

• Buyers are re-engaging. Lower rates (even slightly lower) boost confidence. We’re seeing more buyers step off the sidelines and back into the market.

• Sellers are gaining leverage. With more active buyers, listings that are priced right and presented well are moving faster—sometimes with multiple offers.

• Refinancing is back on the table. Some homeowners are exploring whether a refinance could work in their favor, especially if their current rate is on the higher end.

While we’re not seeing the ultra-low rates of the past just yet, this cut signals a more optimistic tone from the Fed, and that’s often all the market needs to get moving again.

Have questions or wondering how today’s rates affect your next move? Connect with one of our agents—we’re happy to walk you through your options and connect you with a trusted local lender.

What is the 2/3 Rule in Home Décor?

The best interior designs don’t happen by accident. One tried and true “rule” that interior designers, artists, craftspeople, and furniture makers rely upon is the 2/3 Rule. 

The 2/3 Rule can be used when you select anything for your home—a sofa, oil painting, fine rug, or chandelier. If you’re unhappy with something you’ve chosen, it could be that the proportions are wrong and it doesn’t play well with something else. Explains one designer, your “furniture should take up two thirds of the area, leaving enough floor space for easy traffic flow.” A coffee table should be two thirds the sofa’s size. A painting or grouping of photos should take up two thirds of their wall space.

It's a simple rule of proportion. No room, wall, or table should be filled from end to end, nor should they be too barren. Your goal is to create a pleasing balance between filled spaces (two thirds) with empty spaces (one third). This makes the most comfortable, inviting environment because there’s room for your family and friends to enjoy.

October 2: First Thursday @ Studios of KW

October 2, 9, 15, 23, 30: Truman Waterfront Market

October 3: 1st Fridays on Fleming

October 5: Locals Day @ KW Botanical Gardens

October 6, 13, 20, 27: Green Parrot Bingo

October 6, 13, 20, 27: Trivia Night Mondays @ KW Cooking School

October 7, 14, 21, 28: Glow Hours on Hugh’s View

October 10: KW Outdoor Movies – Fort East Martello 

October 10 – 16: Columbus Day Discounts at Sunset Watersports

October 11: Southard Stroll, date estimate

October 12: Southernmost Half Marathon and 10K

October 12 & 26: Sheriff’s Animal Farm open

October 15: Stone Crab Season Begins

October 16: Walk on White

October 17: Barbie’s Pink Pool Party –Breast Cancer Awareness

October 17: Royal Coronation Ball

October 17 & 18: Goombay Festival in Bahama Village

October 17 - 26: Full FF Schedule – Bedtime Stories & Magical Monsters

October 18:  KW Botanical Gardens Native Plant Sale

October 18: Southernmost Car Club Show and Shine

October 18: Goombay Bash off Petronia

October 19: KW Artisan Market

October 19: Zombieland

October 19: Zombie Bike Ride

October 20: Green Parrot Beatles Tribute

October 20: Fantasy Fest 5K Run/Walk

October 20: Martini Monday at Virgilio's

October 20: Sloppy Joe’s Comic Book Caper-ers Party

October 21: Dante’s 4th of July Party

October 21: Cocktails for Animal Tails – benefits SPCA

October 21: TuTu Tuesday

October 21: Capt Tony’s Party in Plaid

October 22: Pet Masquerade @ Amphitheater

October 22: Sloppy Joe’s Slumber Party

October 22: Wharfstock @ Schooner Wharf Bar

October 22: Homemade Bikini Contest

October 23: BHHS Mega Parade of Open Houses

October 23: Dante’s Halos & Horns Pool Party

October 23: Headdress Ball

October 23: Green Parrot Funk it Up

October 23: Fat Tuesday Pink Party

October 23: Sloppy Joes Toga Party

October 24: Capt Morgans Masquerade March

October 24: Surfs Up @ Hog’s Breath Saloon

October 24 & 25: Fantasy Street Fair & Costume Parade

October 24 & 25: Comparsa @ San Carlos Institute

October 25: Deep Eddy Vodka Fantasy Fest Parade

October 26: Children’s Day @ Bayview Park

October 26: Fantasy Pickleball Tournament

October 26: “The Fat Lady Sings” Tea Dance

October 29: Vacinated & Loved Pet Clinic

October 29 – November 2: Ft Lauderdale Boat Show

October 29 – Nov 3: Spooky Specials for Halloween at Sunset Watersports