Taryn Cafiero - JR Wood

Whether you're customizing a newly purchased home to suit your unique tastes or looking for a way to give your long-time home a new feel, bathrooms are often at the top of the list of rooms to remodel. While there are many factors to consider when planning a remodel, it's wise not to overlook the importance of choosing the right materials. Ready to learn more? Our real estate agents have some key tips to help you pick the perfect materials for your next bathroom remodel.Planning a BudgetNaturally, how much you plan to spend will have an impact on the types of materials that you choose throughout your bathroom remodel project. With an understanding of what you plan to spend, it's much easier to decide where to splurge and where to save. Setting a budget will also make it easier to keep costs in line with expectations.Suiting Your StyleOf course, planning your budget is just the start. The fun part is choosing the materials that best suit your vision for how the remodel will look when completed. This part comes down to personal preference, perhaps along with the input of any design pros helping you plan the project. It can be very helpful to take a look at other bathroom remodel projects online in order to gain some valuable inspiration for your own project.Basics for Bathroom MaterialsWhen choosing materials for the bathroom, especially for surfaces that will receive frequent use, it's wise to keep a few key qualities in mind. The ideal materials should be water-resistant, easy to clean, and sturdy. With those qualities in mind, it's no surprise that tile is such a popular choice for bathroom surfaces. For countertop surfaces, granite, marble, glass, and quartzite are all popular options.Cabinets and Storage SpaceStorage space is an essential consideration when planning a bathroom remodel because it allows you to have everything you need on hand while still keeping your bathroom clean, organized, and looking its best. Due to the importance of storage space, it's well worth considering both look and function when choosing cabinets. Fortunately, there should be plenty of options available that satisfy both needs.Technology and Finishing TouchesIf you've fully embraced the smart home trend, then simple, automated technology like motion-sensor lights and digital faucets can add some extra convenience to your redesigned bathroom. Along with technology, consider any other final touches that you might want for look or convenience. Make your master bathroom a relaxing retreat by adding art, plants, or any of your other favorite decorative touches.Eco-Friendly Design ChoicesWhile it's not a requirement, many homeowners today choose to opt for materials that are environmentally friendly. This can include big items, like the type of toilet that you choose, as well as smaller things, like shower heads and faucets. If going green is important to you, be sure to check the efficiency of any new items that are part of your bathroom remodel.When in Doubt, Lean on the ProsUnless you happen to be a contractor yourself, you'll likely have a contractor, interior designer, or both helping you throughout this process. Don't be afraid to consult their expert opinions when choosing which materials will work best for your needs.Still searching for the perfect Southwest Florida home to make your own? Our team is here to help you shop for Naples homes for sale and so much more. Contact us to buy and sell homes in your favorite Paradise Coast communities.

Spending time on the water is often one of the primary motivators for why so many people choose to live or purchase a second home on the Paradise Coast. From homes with docks that provide access to the Gulf to the many outstanding marinas near Naples homes for sale and across the Paradise Coast, you certainly won't have to travel far to enjoy your next day on the water. Our real estate agents have more details on local marinas that provide everything you need for your next Paradise Coast boating adventure.Port O Call Marina 550 Port-O-Call Way, Naples, Florida 34102Want to spend some time on the water but not interested in owning your own boat? Port O Call Marina has you covered with a ton of convenient options for boat rentals, charter fishing, public cruises, private cruises, and even waterside weddings. There are three different types of boats to rent here tailored to various adventures, including the Hurricane Fun Boat, which features Bluetooth connectivity, an adjustable sunshade, and a full bar with 4 captain's chairs.The Adventurer's Club 1100 8th Ave. S., Naples, FL 34102While The Adventurer's Club doesn't offer cruises or boat rentals like some of the other marinas on our list, it's an excellent option when you're searching for a safe, convenient place to store your own boat. Slips are available on one-year leases, with 24-hour access, individual power, individual fresh water, and convenient parking nearby.Island Marina 13115 Vanderbilt Dr., Naples, Florida 34110Don't want to worry about renewing a lease or finding a new slip every few years? In addition, to slip rentals, Island Marina offers slips for sale so that you can own a space at your favorite marina. Located just a few minutes by water from the Gulf, slips at this marina are often in high demand.The Marina at Naples Bay Resort 1500 5th Ave. S., Naples, FL 34102The Marina at Naples Bay Resort is different from most marinas because it's both a marina and a luxury resort. Since it's located at a resort, this marina offers some unique options like overnight slip rentals, along with standards like daily boat rentals and annual marina leases. Even if you're just visiting the marina for the day, you can rent everything from luxury boats to simple paddle boards and kayaks.Pelican Isle Yacht Club 410 Dockside Dr., Naples, FL 34110Of course, the Paradise Coast also offers experiences far beyond the norm. That's what you'll find at Pelican Isle Yacht Club, a luxurious, private marina located on its own island just 5 minutes from the Gulf. It's been ranked as one of the top 50 marinas in the world and the number 7 marina in the United States.Naples Boat Club 909 10th St. S., Naples, FL 34102With a large dry dock facility, 47 wet slips, and tons of on-site shopping for all of your nautical needs, Naples Boat Club offers everything you need to enjoy your watercraft to the fullest. If location is a priority for you, this marina is a great choice. It's located just a few blocks from all of the shopping, dining, and entertainment on Fifth Avenue.Whether you're searching for a home near your favorite marina or one with your own private dock and boat lift, our team is here to help you find the right match. Contact us to buy and sell homes in your favorite Paradise Coast communities.

Did you know that Florida was the fastest-growing state in the country by population in 2022? It's true, according to census data reported by Forbes, and while Florida often ranks high on the list this marks the first time since 1957 that it finished the year as the fastest-growing state. With beautiful weather, endless attractions, stunning scenery, and a unique, vibrant culture, it's no surprise that so many people love calling Florida home. Our real estate agents have more details on Florida's recent population growth and on what draws so many new residents to the Paradise Coast.Florida: Now the Nation's Fastest-Growing StateBefore we delve into why so many new residents are flocking to Florida, it's worth taking a moment to look at a few more eye-opening statistics. First, Florida is the third most populous state in the country, and the fastest-growing state list is based on percentage of growth which means that to reach the same percentage, Florida had to attract a much larger number of new residents compared to many smaller states, like last year's fastest-growing state, Idaho.Equally important is that Florida's population has grown by percentage during every year since 1946, without exception. So population growth certainly isn't a new trend, and once people move to Florida, they often stick around long term. However, the magnitude of new arrivals has certainly increased in recent years. 2022 saw a population growth of 1.9 percent, which took Florida's population to 22,224,823 as of the end of 2022.Why You'll Love Finding a Florida Home TooWhile there are many parts of Florida that you could choose for your next home, who could say no to paradise? The Paradise Coast, located along the shores of the Gulf of Mexico in Southwest Florida, exemplifies all of the reasons why so many people love calling Florida home. This is where you'll find Naples homes for sale, as well as homes in many other outstanding Paradise Coast communities.Endless Destinations for Shopping and DiningIf you love shopping, you'll feel right at home among the many boutiques, high-end clothing shops, art galleries, and unique, local small businesses in Paradise Coast communities. Fifth Avenue South is a great example of the mix of shopping, dining, and entertainment that you'll find in this corner of Florida. Located in Naples, Fifth Avenue South features stores stocked with the biggest luxury brands, along with gourmet dining, art galleries, great places to enjoy a cocktail, and a wide variety of entertainment venues.A Hub of Art, Culture, and EntertainmentWith an exceptional mix of art galleries, classes, and museums, the arts are thriving on the Paradise Coast. Shop for the perfect piece to finish of a room in your new home, or take a class to learn how to create your own. No matter how you like to experience art, you'll feel right at home on the Paradise Coast.Fun in the SunWhether you enjoy golf, tennis, nature hikes, or long, lounging days spent on the beach with your toes in the sand, you'll never be far from fun, outdoorsy activities when you spend time in Florida. Golfers will be especially excited to hear that the Paradise Coast has a second nickname, the Golf Capital of the World. There are more than 90 courses here, including some world-class clubs where PGA and LPGA tournaments are held annually. With a temperate climate year-round, you can enjoy the great outdoors all year long.Real EstateFrom luxurious estates and high-end townhomes in gated communities to beachfront bungalows perched on the shore of the Gulf, the Paradise Coast offers homes to suit every taste. So even with so many new residents moving to Florida, you can still find homes in your favorite communities that check off every must-have on your shopping list. Whether you're searching for a permanent residence or a part-time home/vacation destination, the Paradise Coast has so much to offer.Are you interested in helping make Florida the fastest-growing state in 2023? Our local team is here to help with all of your real estate needs on the Paradise Coast. Contact us to buy and sell homes throughout the Naples, FL, area.

A busy summer of events around the Paradise Coast continues in August, with a couple of fun, family-friendly events perfect for an outing with the kids before they head back to school. As always, there will be plenty of events featuring food, entertainment, and socialization for the adults, as well. Our real estate agents have all of the details on 6 events that you can look forward to around the Paradise Coast this August.Super Scaly Slimy Family Day 3331 Tamiami Trail E., Naples, FL 34112We start near Naples homes for sale with an event that the youngest members of the family are sure to enjoy, with Super Scaly Slimy Family Day at the Collier Museum at Government Center. Kids will have the opportunity to learn all about the many slimy, scaly, and fascinating creatures that call Florida home through fun, hands-on activities. There will be free crafts, games, and activities at the museum on August 19, 2023, starting at 10:00 AM.Third Street South Farmers Market Neapolitan parking lot between Third St. South and Gordon Dr., Naples, FL 34101Planning some big meals for the end of summer? You won't find fresher ingredients than what you can get at the Third Street South Farmers Market, which you can find between Gordon Drive and Third Street South every Saturday morning from May through November. In addition to fantastic food, this market often features arts, crafts, and all sorts of handmade creations from talented local artisans.Fort Myers Comedy Night 3440 Marinatown Ln. N., Fort Myers, FL 33903On August 17, 2023, nationally known comedians will be on stage for Fort Myers Comedy Night at Sea-Craft Waterfront Tiki. Enjoy an evening of roaring laughs and delicious dining at a beautiful waterfront location in Fort Myers. The event starts at 8:30 PM.Italian Wine Tasting  25987 South Tamiami Trail, Bonita Springs, FL 34134You don't have to hop on a flight to experience an Italian wine tasting! Vichino's Cafe & Wine Bar will be serving four pours of iLauri wine during the Italian Wine Tasting. Pair the wines with one of their made-in-house pretzels or a delicious charcuterie board. This event is the perfect way to close out your August, taking place on Thursday, August 31, and in close proximity to many fantastic Bonita Springs homes for sale. Songwriters 4 Vets 5001 Coconut Rd., Bonita Springs, FL 34134The Songwriters 4 Vets series comes to Bonita Springs this August with an evening of performances at the Hyatt Regency at Coconut Point. This event features Nashville songwriters performing their greatest hits and sharing the stories of how each song came to be. It's all done to raise money for military veterans, and you can attend on August 26, 2023, starting at 7:00 PM.Wine and Dessert Pairing 1544 Broadway, Fort Myers, FL 33901Prepare for an evening of culinary delights with the Wine and Dessert Pairing at The Wine Room on August 17, 2023, at 8:00 PM. Sample four carefully curated desserts paired with wine sourced from all around the world. Advance tickets are required, so be sure to reserve your spot if you plan to attend. If you enjoy this style of event, The Wine Room hosts a wide variety of similar food and wine events all year long near our Fort Myers homes for sale.Searching for a home that makes it easy to enjoy the amazing events and attractions of the Paradise Coast? Our local team is here to help. Contact us to buy and sell homes in your favorite Paradise Coast communities.

March 27th, 2023 by John R. Wood PropertiesDid you know that every March is Dolphin Awareness Month? They're some of the smartest creatures in the ocean, with plenty of personality and playfulness, so spotting dolphins in the coastal waters near Naples homes for sale has long been a favorite activity of nature enthusiasts on the Paradise Coast. Our real estate agents have the exciting details on 6 of the best local tour services that can help you spot dolphins near Naples.Dolphin Explorer 951 Bald Eagle Dr., Marco Island, FL 34145Winner of a Trip Advisor Traveler's Choice award for three years running, the Dolphin Explorer crew helped passengers spot a total of 4,865 dolphins in 2022 alone. Reservations are strongly recommended for these tours, which leave twice per day at 9:00 AM and 1:00 PM, with each cruise lasting for about 3 hours. These tours are also part of a long-term study on dolphins in Southwest Florida, so the crew is very knowledgeable and offers a fun, educational, family-friendly experience as you explore the coast of Marco Island.Dolphin Research Tours 3265 Andrews Ave., Naples, FL 34112Interested in a private dolphin tour? In addition to its scientific mission in conjunction with The Dolphin Study, Dolphin Research Tours offers private tours from 3 to 5 hours in length, along with its flagship, Dolphins of Marco Island Eco Tour. If you choose a private tour, you'll have the opportunity to stop on a barrier island beach for a picnic, all while learning about dolphins and other wildlife from the experts at Dolphin Research Tours.Breakwater Adventures 149 S. Barfield Dr., Marco Island, FL 34145Another great option for private tours is Breakwater Adventures, which you'll find around the corner from Marco Island homes for sale. All tours from Breakwater Adventures are private, with group rates starting at $395 and tons of options for customizing your trip. Dolphin Tours are available for groups of up to 6 people, with guaranteed dolphin sightings and the chance to spot other coastal wildlife. You also have the option of adding fun additional activities like shelling and tubing to your trip.Marco Island Eco Tours 548 Coconut Ave., #661, Goodland, FL 34140Owner of Marco Island Eco Tours, Tony Isse, has been living in Southwest Florida for nearly 40 years and has been guiding friends along the coast for most of that time. That passion has since grown into a thriving eco-tour business, where you get to pilot your own easy-to-use Mini Catamaran for the trip. You'll be guided along the coast to some of the best spots for wildlife spotting, with a chance to get closer to the dolphins and other wildlife than you would on a larger watercraft.Pure Florida 1200 Fifth Ave. S., Naples, Florida 34102With more than 20 years of experience touring the coast, you'll often spot the Naples Explorer, flagship of Pure Florida, docked at Tin City in Naples. Their most popular tour is the hybrid Dolphin Watch/Eco Shelling tour, where you'll get to spot dolphins along the Naples coastline before making a stop at Keewaydin Island. There, you can enjoy some shelling on the peaceful, scenic beach or take a refreshing dip in the Gulf before you head out for more dolphin spotting.Island Time Dolphin & Shelling Cruises 450 Harbor Ct., Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931With a convenient location near Fort Myers Beach homes for sale and more than 10 different types of coastal tours available, Island Time Dolphin & Shelling Cruises truly offers something for everyone. Try a Dolphin & Eco Tour that explores the mangrove ecosystem along the coast or a Dolphin & Shelling tour which includes shelling on an island only accessible by boat. All tours here are private, lasting about 3-4 hours, with complimentary refreshments and snacks.Searching for a home that puts you steps from the stunning landscapes and waterfronts of the Paradise Coast? Our local team is here to help you accomplish your real estate goals. Contact us to buy and sell homes throughout the Naples, FL, area.

Unlike most parts of the country, late winter and early spring are actually excellent times to enjoy your favorite outdoor activities around the Paradise Coast. And if you love playing tennis, you won't find a better place to call home. From massive tennis academies offering expert instruction to high-end tennis clubs and familiar public courts, there are countless places to enjoy your favorite sport. Our real estate agents have the details on 7 of the best places to play tennis around the Paradise Coast.Emilio Sanchez Academy 2035 Sanchez-Casal Way, Naples, FL 34105Whether you're interested in world-class instruction, tennis clinics, or simply a beautifully maintained, feature-packed place to play, the Emilio Sanchez Tennis Academy is a true gem of the Paradise Coast. Located around the corner from Naples homes for sale, the Emilio Sanchez Academy offers programs for kids, adults, and families. There's also a great Tennis Club on-site to unwind after you play, with a cafeteria, clubhouse, Olympic-sized swimming pool, and hot tub.The Club at Sterling Oaks 822 Sterling Oaks Blvd., Naples, FL 34110If the quality of the court that you play on is of utmost importance to you, then few destinations can top The Club at Sterling Oaks. The courts here, including clay courts, have been rated as some of the best in the country. With social games, league play, clinics, lessons, and lighted courts for evening tennis, this club offers everything that you need in one location. The club also has more than 300 members, so you'll rarely have to wait long to find a game.Naples Bay Club 1800 Tamiami Trl. East, Naples, FL 34112A long-time local favorite, the Naples Bay Club is so much more than just a place to enjoy great tennis. That the courts, amenities, and instruction are all top-notch at this private club goes without saying. The Naples Bay Club features many more perks for members, including gourmet dining, nightlife, fitness facilities, multiple pools, and a year-round schedule of social events.Fort Myers Racquet Club 1820 Hendry St., Fort Myers, FL 33901It's easy to find a game in Fort Myers as well, thanks to excellent local facilities like the Fort Myers Racquet Club. The 8 Har-Tru courts and 6 pickleball courts here were all resurfaced in 2021, with shaded seating areas added for rest between matches. This is a popular home court for many local coaches, as well as a host to many tournaments and leagues for players of all experience levels.Three Oaks Tennis Center 18251 Three Oaks Pkwy, Fort Myers, FL 33967Located in scenic Three Oaks Park near Fort Myers homes for sale, the Three Oaks Tennis Center is a great option if you're not feeling ready to join a tennis club just yet. The public courts here attract players from across Fort Myers, so you're sure to meet new people. You'll also find clinics, lessons, and tennis programs throughout the year here.Pickleball & Tennis US 25987 S. Tamiami Trl. #104, Bonita Springs, FL 34134Need to pick up some new gear before you head to the courts and want to shop from the latest selection of high-end tennis products? The experts at Pickleball & Tennis US can set you up with anything that you need. While you're there or in the area looking at Bonita Springs homes for sale, consider booking a session at the indoor pickleball courts, perfect for fitting in a game on a rainy day.Arthur L. Allen Tennis Center 730 8th Street S., Naples, FL 34102If you're searching for a place with tons of clinics, leagues, and tournaments, the Arthur L. Allen Tennis Center has more than enough to keep you busy. There are clinics hosted here from morning to evening every day for both new and experienced players. When you're in the mood for a little competition, try signing up for one of the weekly round-robin tournaments, which are held every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday morning.Searching for a home around the corner from your favorite tennis club? Let our experienced, local team help you achieve your real estate goals. Contact us to buy and sell homes in your favorite Paradise Coast communities.

July 17th, 2023 by John R. Wood PropertiesOne of the great things about having a home on the Paradise Coast is that you can enjoy fun on the water all year long, though summer is certainly an especially popular time for boating adventures near Naples homes for sale. Before heading out to the marina or backyard dock, it's always a good idea to brush up on boating safety practices. Our real estate agents have some boating safety tips based on National Safety Council guidance to help you make the most of your time on the water this summer.Always Have Life Jackets HandyLife jackets are at the core of boating safety. Even for strong swimmers, life jackets are an essential survival tool in the event of an accident. For kids or people who aren't strong swimmers, that importance is only magnified. The National Safety Council recommends picking a life jacket with a proper fit for each passenger's size and weight, making sure that life jackets are always fastened, and ensuring that kids are always wearing life jackets when on a boat. The Wear It guide from the United States Coast Guard offers tons of helpful tips to help you choose the correct equipment for your needs.Be Proactive About Safety EducationEspecially if you're new to boating, it's critical to make sure that you're up to date on the best practices for staying safe. Online guides are a great place to start, but taking a class from a certified expert is even better. If you dock your boat at a marina, you may be able to find boating safety courses there. You can also find and book classes through Boat-Ed, which offers state-approved boating safety courses across the country.Use Common Sense Don't Drink While Driving a BoatCommon sense is essential to boating safety in all areas. This includes things like checking that your boat is in good condition before heading out, being respectful of other traffic on the water, adhering to local laws, and following posted signs. Of course, drinking while driving a boat is a serious violation of common sense, boating safety, and of Florida law as well. Just don't do it. It's really that simple.Create and Share a Float PlanFor an added layer of safety, creating and sharing a float plan before you head out for the day is a great idea. Ideally, this will include your itinerary for the day, expected stops, expected return time, and names/contact information for everyone who will be on board. All of this information can be vital to a fast response in the event of an emergency.Check the Weather Before Heading OutBefore you head out, it's always well worth checking the weather to understand what the conditions will be and how they might change throughout the day. The NOAA's nowCOAST map is free to use and designed for people who spend time on the water, so it's a great choice for this purpose.Educate Passengers on Boating SafetyEven if you're already quite familiar with boating safety, that may not be true for everyone who's joining you on any given tip. Before you head out, spend a few minutes brushing passengers up on safety tips, showing them where everything important is on the boat, and reviewing emergency procedures.Be Aware of Maritime TrafficJust like on the roads, traffic conditions can vary quite a bit on the water, based on time of year, holidays, weather, and other factors. Understand the traffic situation before you depart, and always be aware of the traffic around you once you head out.Did that private dock we mentioned earlier pique your attention? You'll find plenty in the backyards of Paradise Coast homes, with many offering private lifts and direct access to the Gulf. Ready to start shopping? Contact us to buy and sell homes in your favorite Paradise Coast communities.