Paradise found: Your guide to waterfront properties in Key Largo, FL

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KEY LARGO, FL: AN OVERVIEW

Nestled at the northernmost point of the Florida Keys, Key Largo is famous for its rich history, laid-back lifestyle, and array of sights and amenities that make it a must-visit destination. 

A short history of Key Largo

According to experts, Key Largo—as well as the rest of the Florida Keys—sprang up from the fossilized remains of a coral reef, which  was believed to have formed when sea levels were higher. The reef was eventually uncovered and eroded during a subsequent ice age. 

The Florida Keys would later serve as home to several indigenous tribes, such as the Calusa and the Tequesta, until European settlers arrived in the 16th century. By the early 1800s, North American settlers began populating Key Largo. Many of them were fishermen as well as pineapple farmers. 

A select group of settlers were also experienced in shipwreck salvaging. The city saw exceptional growth in the 20th century because of two key developments: Henry Flagler’s railroad and the Overseas Highway. Both connected Key Largo to the mainland, and also linked Miami all the way to Key West. 

As the waters surrounding Key Largo are laden with marine and man-made treasures, the city became a base for pioneering underwater explorations and treasure hunts. One of the most notable expeditions was that treasure hunter Mel Fisher, who uncovered wrecks of Spanish galleons such as the Atocha.

Key Largo in the 21st century

Key Largo today is considered by many to be the “Diving Capital of the World.”  The John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, is one of the major attractions in the area. It is an undersea park known for its glass-bottom boat tours, underwater tours, and mangrove swamps. Other popular dive spots and beaches include Elbow Reef, which is famous for its shipwrecks; Molasses Reef, which is considered to be one of the best-preserved reef systems in Florida; and USS Spiegel Grove, home to a 510-foot-long shipwreck from which it gets its name.

Food and shopping

Foodies will relish the culinary experiences Key Largo has to offer, given its delightful selection of dining experiences. These include:

• DiGiorgio’s Cafe Largo, a family-owned and operated restaurant best known for its handmade pasta, which they have been serving every day since 1968. 
• Bayside Grille & Sunset Bar, a casual restaurant made famous for their Caribbean-inspired seafood and meat dishes. 
• Sal’s Ballyhoo’s, which takes pride in adding a delightful Southern twist to fresh-caught seafood.
• Doc’s Diner, which serves old-school All-American comfort food, including classics such as meatloaf and biscuits and gravy.

The Key Largo area—and its surrounding communities—also doesn’t disappoint when it comes to shopping. Rain Barrel Artisan Village in nearby Islamorada is a tropical-style, open-air market that offers a variety of local art, handmade crafts, custom jewelry, fashionable resort wear, and unique souvenirs. Those looking for a premier outdoor shopping experience, meanwhile can head over to Tavernier Towne Centre, which is home to a wide variety of shops, restaurants, and boutiques, as well as the only cinema in the Upper Florida Keys.

Key Largo is located just an hour’s drive south of Miami. Residents have easy access to the city’s selection of shops, restaurants, and other amenities.

WATERFRONT HOMES FOR SALE IN KEY LARGO

At present, homes in Key Largo, FL have a median listing price of $1.5M, which reflects an upward year-over-year trend of 27.9%. Some of the more upscale homes in Key Largo, however, can sell for as much as $4 million. 

Key Largo waterfront real estate

Waterfront homes for sale in Key Largo fall into three distinct categories: bayfront, oceanfront, and canal-front. Bayfront and oceanfront homes make up the largest chunk of Key Largo waterfront homes for sale and are often the most expensive. These homes often offer direct access to the water as well as amazing views. 

Canal-front homes, on the other hand, are situated along the many canals that lead out to open water. These properties tend to be less expensive compared to the other Key Largo waterfront homes for sale, mostly due to them only having partial views. That said, canal-front homes are still prized, especially among boating enthusiasts. These properties still offer water access by way of boat docks. 

Oceanview homes are also another type of property you can find throughout Key Largo. Compared to the first three, these properties stand at a much further distance from the water, although they can still have full or partial water views.

Popular architectural styles

Perhaps due to the region’s history and its diversity, you can expect to see a wide range of architectural styles when looking at Key Largo waterfront homes for sale. 

As with most communities in the Florida Keys, the most common waterfront homes you’ll encounter in Key Largo are Key West and Conch-style homes. Both are characterized by their wooden construction, pastel-colored facades, and porches or balconies. These homes have a unique fusion of Floridian and Caribbean influences and often feature metal roofs to withstand the region’s tropical storms.

In addition to traditional-style houses, you’ll also find Mediterranean and Spanish-style villas scattered across the landscape. They make use of elements such as stucco exteriors, red tile roofing, and ornate detailing, all of which inject some Old World elegance amidst the tropical paradise. Mid-century architecture is making a comeback in Key Largo as well. 

Finally, you can also expect to see contemporary designs in Key Largo, especially in its newer developments. These homes often boast a distinct “tropical modern” style, characterized by open floor plans, large windows, and sleek lines with lush landscaping and outdoor living spaces. All of these elements help create a seamless indoor-outdoor living space.

Where can I find waterfront real estate in Key Largo, FL?

Whether you’re a boating enthusiast, an investor, or someone seeking a peaceful coastal retreat, Key Largo’s local real estate market has plenty to offer. Here are some communities to consider as you search for waterfront homes for sale in Key Largo, FL. 

1. North Key Largo: A stunning neighborhood known for its premier waterfront homes, North Key Largo is home to several major attractions as well as exclusive communities. These include Ocean Reef Club and Key Largo Anglers Club. Many of the houses in this in-demand area were built between 1970 and 1999, giving them a genuine, lived-in, yet luxurious feel.
2. Ocean Shores: Another spectacular Key Largo neighborhood, Ocean Shores takes pride in its selection of premium real estate offerings, from medium-sized apartments to single-family homes. Ocean Shores is located close to Port Largo and Key Largo Beach and is known primarily for its spectacular ocean views.
3. Sunset Point: A thriving community south of Key Largo, Sunset Point is noted for its family-friendly atmosphere, community amenities, and abundance of lovely homes. Because of this—as well as its wealth of small commercial establishments—Sunset Point has attracted a diverse range of residents, from growing families looking to find a great place for their kids to retirees on the lookout for a peaceful place to spend their golden years in.

Other notable communities in Key Largo include the following:

• Anglers Park
• Buccaneer Point
• Ocean Isle Estates
• Key Largo Ocean Resorts
• Key Largo Park
• Lime Grove Estates
• Rock Harbor
• Key Largo Yacht Club
• Port Largo Villas

THINGS TO CONSIDER WHEN BUYING WATERFRONT REAL ESTATE IN KEY LARGO, FL

Purchasing a waterfront property comes with its own set of considerations that are crucial to making a well-informed decision. Consider the following as you explore waterfront homes for sale in Key Largo:

1. Budget and financing

   Waterfront properties, especially in sought-after areas like Key Largo, can come with a premium price tag. Not only that, but you should also consider other costs like property taxes, insurance, and maintenance fees. Additionally, securing financing for waterfront homes can be more complicated than other properties, which makes it essential for prospective buyers to get pre-approved for a mortgage before house hunting.

2. Work with a Realtor

   The quality of the Realtor you decide to work with matters in the entire homebuying process. Realtors can not only help you find the perfect property, but they can also offer insightful opinions and guidance on the market and the buying process. A knowledgeable Realtor, particularly one who specializes in waterfront properties, can help you navigate the challenges of purchasing a high-end property.

3. Location and water access
   Location is one of the most important things to consider when purchasing a waterfront home. Does it offer direct water access, and does the area get crowded with tourists? Does the home benefit from full or partial views of the water? And is the neighborhood prone to flooding? In the long run, the property’s location will influence how you enjoy the home, as well as its resale value should you decide to sell.
4. Home inspection and condition

   Do not skip the home inspection step to ensure your investment is worthwhile. Aside from the standard features (power, plumbing, ventilation, and insulation), the inspector will also look for signs of water exposure. These include corrosion and mold, which can have significant effects on the overall quality of the property as well as its residents.

5. Hurricane preparedness

   Given that Key Largo is a coastal area, inquire whether the homes you are considering are adequately protected against natural disasters such as hurricanes. It is ideal for waterfront homes to be fitted with hurricane shutters as well as impact-resistant doors and windows. Provisions for emergency power and water storage are also good features to have in the case of force majeure. Homes that don’t have these shouldn’t be ruled out of your home search, however. Instead, determine if such features can be installed.

6. Resale value

   Given all of the aforementioned factors, is the waterfront home ultimately worth its list price and will you be able to sell it at a profit in the future? You and your Realtor will be able to answer the second question by looking at the market at large, from prevailing market trends to area developments in the pipeline. These could affect the property’s value in the next five to ten years.

The benefits of investing in a waterfront home in Key Largo

Living in a waterfront home or owning one as a vacation property has several important advantages. 

For instance, living in a waterfront home allows residents to be more physically active and live a healthier lifestyle. This is in large part to the water access such a property provides. Residents can participate in activities such as boating, swimming, and diving when compared to those who live in more landlocked areas.  

In the case of vacation properties, you may be able to save in the long run for already having a place to stay. Furthermore, you will be able to tailor the property accordingly based on your holiday needs and preferences. When the home is not in use, you have the option to open it for short-term vacation lease, provided the necessary permits have been secured. 

Perhaps the most important benefit to buying a waterfront home in Key Largo, FL, however, is the significant returns on your investment. Due to the limited inventory and high-value nature of waterfront properties, prices are less affected by market movements than other residential real estate. Those who are considering turning their waterfront homes into rentals can also expect good returns on their investments, especially since waterfront homes remain a sought-after destination for holiday-goers from all across the country.

DISCOVER KEY LARGO LIVING AND REAL ESTATE INVESTING WITH ANGEL DIGIORGIO

If you are planning on investing in your very own waterfront home in Key Largo, there is no better real estate agent to work with than Angel DiGiorgio.

Having lived in Key Largo for 25+ years, Angel fulfills two roles: that of an expert real estate agent and that of a knowledgeable local and guide. She also has first-hand experience of what it feels like to visit Key Largo, fall in love with the place, and eventually make the move. Angel has been there, done that, and ready to help you realize your dream.

Ready to find your dream home in Key Largo, FL? Get in touch with Angel today by calling 305.509.0971. You may also send her a message here to schedule your consultation.