Author: Anthony F Russo

  • 5th Avenue lifestyle

    5th Avenue lifestyle

    Living near 5th Avenue South places you close to the heart of Central Naples. Residents enjoy convenient access to shopping, dining, services, and the everyday energy of a popular downtown retail corridor. The area’s walkable urban feel can be especially appealing to retirees, seasonal residents, downtown employees, and service workers who value proximity and activity.

    That convenience comes with tradeoffs. Parking can require more planning, particularly during busy periods, and homes or condominiums in this central location may command premium prices. Buyers should consider how much they value walkability and downtown access compared with added space, quieter surroundings, or a different price point.

    As a Central Naples real estate agent, I show buyers homes and condominiums near 5th Avenue South every week. I also help clients compare this lifestyle with neighborhoods in North, South, and East Naples, so they can evaluate location, housing style, budget, and daily routine together.

    If you are considering a move to Naples, let’s discuss what matters most to you and compare current options near 5th Avenue South with homes throughout the area. The right neighborhood is the one that best fits your lifestyle—not just the one with the most activity.

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  • Marco Island – Most Expensive Homes of September 2026 | SELLING LUXURY FOR 25 YEARS!

    Marco Island — Most Expensive homes for September 2026.

    Listings (sorted by price):
    1. Listing NABOR226026187 — $16,999,000
    2. Listing NABOR225036296 — $12,900,000
    3. Listing NABOR226028084 — $12,500,000
    4. Listing NABOR226019364 — $12,275,000
    5. Listing NABOR226019454 — $11,500,000
    6. Listing NABOR226015165 — $10,500,000
    7. Listing NABOR226015182 — $8,500,000
    8. Listing NABOR226029843 — $8,500,000
    9. Listing NABOR226032318 — $7,897,000
    10. Listing NABOR226009726 — $7,495,000
    11. Listing NABOR226023331 — $7,495,000
    12. Listing NABOR226025754 — $7,150,000
    13. Listing NABOR226030752 — $7,100,000
    14. Listing NABOR2026030763 — $6,900,000
    15. Listing NABOR226026964 — $6,900,000

  • Naples Inventory Is Rising—What It Means for Buyers and Sellers

    Naples Inventory Is Rising—What It Means for Buyers and Sellers

    Rising inventory in Naples, Florida, can reshape the real estate conversation for both buyers and sellers. For buyers, more available homes may mean greater selection, more time to compare features, and increased opportunity to negotiate price, repairs, or closing terms. The key is knowing which properties offer genuine value and which have simply been sitting on the market.

    For sellers, increased competition makes preparation and pricing especially important. A home that is positioned above comparable properties may attract fewer showings and require later price reductions. Strong presentation, professional marketing, and a pricing strategy based on current neighborhood-level data can help a property stand out.

    Market conditions are not identical across Naples. Inventory, buyer demand, and pricing trends can vary by neighborhood, property type, and price range. Buyers and sellers should look beyond broad headlines and review the most relevant local numbers before making a decision.

    Whether you are considering a purchase, planning a sale, or simply tracking your options, a personalized market review can clarify your next step. Reach out for a Naples-specific strategy built around your goals.

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  • Happy Halloween | SELLING LUXURY FOR 25 YEARS!

    Halloween falls on October 31 because the ancient Gaelic festival of Samhain, considered the earliest known root of Halloween, occurred on this day.
    In the eighth century, Pope Gregory III designated November 1 as a time to praise all saints.
    Soon, All Saints' Day incorporated some traditions of Samhain and the evening before was known as All Hallows Eve, and later Halloween.
    Over time, Halloween evolved into a day of activities like trick-or-treating, carving jack-o-lanterns, festive gatherings, donning costumes and eating treats.
    Today’s the day to eat candies and sweets to your heart’s content! Happy Halloween!

  • Best New Restaurants

    Best New Restaurants

    For many buyers, dining convenience is an important part of the Naples lifestyle. In Central Naples, the 5th Avenue South downtown retail corridor offers especially convenient access to restaurants, shops, and everyday experiences that make the area appealing.

    Because restaurant openings, rankings, and hours can change frequently, it is smart to check current local listings and confirm details before making plans. A neighborhood that feels convenient today may also continue to evolve as new dining options open.

    When comparing Central Naples with North, South, or East Naples, consider how much you value nearby dining and downtown access. Central Naples may offer a more connected urban lifestyle, but buyers should also evaluate parking pressure and whether a condominium or single-family home better suits their needs.

    As a Central Naples real estate agent working the area every week, I can help you compare lifestyle priorities, neighborhood locations, and available homes. Reach out to start planning your Naples move.

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  • Collier County Sets FY27 Tax Rate | SELLING LUXURY FOR 25 YEARS!

    County approved FY27 budget of $3.18B and lowered its property tax rate to ~3.2 mills, aiming for rollback revenue and ~$5.5M resident relief.
    Countywide market values ↓~3% yearly to ~$217.7B, while officials said the conservation program would still receive ~$30M after the funding reduction this year.
    Naples approved a ~1.3-mill rate for the current fiscal year, up from ~1.2 mills, alongside a city budget that grew to ~$241M.
    Marco Island kept its rate flat at ~1.3 mills, approved a ~$34.3M budget, and included pay raises for police, fire rescue, and employees.
    Everglades City lowered its rate to ~6.6 mills and trimmed its budget to ~$31.2M, though it remained among Florida's highest municipal rates.

  • Hallowine – Mercato

    Hallowine – Mercato

    Mark your calendar for Hallowine – Mercato on October 29, 2026. This Halloween-themed evening brings together wine, bites, festive energy, and the welcoming community spirit that makes Naples such a special place to live.

    Hosted by local Rotary organizations at Mercato, the event offers a fun opportunity to connect with neighbors while enjoying a memorable night out. Whether you are planning a date night, meeting friends, or looking for a local activity to share with visiting guests, Hallowine is a great addition to your calendar.

    As a Naples real estate professional, I love highlighting events that help residents experience the lifestyle beyond the front door. Community gatherings like this make it easier to meet people, explore favorite local destinations, and feel connected to the area you call home.

    Learn more about Hallowine – Mercato and make your plans here: https://www.eventsnaples.com/events/hallowine-mercato-efc7bb39

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  • Central Naples housing

    Central Naples housing

    Central Naples is commonly represented by two broad housing types: single-family homes and condominiums. Both can vary significantly in layout, size, age, amenities, and setting, so the best choice depends on how each property fits your priorities and lifestyle.

    Single-family homes may appeal to buyers seeking greater privacy, more space, outdoor areas, and control over the property. However, buyers should account for ongoing maintenance, insurance, landscaping, and the responsibilities that come with owning the structure and land.

    Condominiums can provide convenience, shared amenities, and less exterior maintenance. Before making an offer, review association fees, included services, community rules, reserve funding, assessments, and any rental or pet restrictions. Downtown mixed-use areas also include housing, while 5th Avenue South remains a major downtown retail corridor.

    Working in Central Naples each week, I help buyers compare the individual property, community structure, and location rather than assume the area offers only one housing style. Reach out to discuss which tradeoffs best match your goals.

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  • 6th annual Fall Fest

    6th annual Fall Fest

    Naples families have a festive reason to celebrate Halloween together at the 6th annual Fall Fest on October 31, 2026. Hosted at Paradise Coast Sports Complex, this free community event brings neighbors together for an afternoon or evening of fun, laughter, and local connection.

    The festival features something for every age, including trunk-or-treat, bounce houses, a foam party, face painting, RC cars, and a lively costume parade. Families can enjoy the activities, show off their best costumes, and create memorable moments without an admission fee.

    As a local real estate agent, I love highlighting events that make Naples feel like home. Community gatherings like Fall Fest offer a great opportunity to meet neighbors, explore local amenities, and experience the welcoming spirit of Southwest Florida.

    Mark your calendar, invite your friends, and plan your costumes now. For event details and updates, visit https://www.visitnaplesfl.com/event/6th-annual-fall-fest-97100947.

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  • Naples Retirement Comes With Tradeoffs | SELLING LUXURY FOR 25 YEARS!

    Naples offers Gulf beaches, golf, warm winters, upscale dining, and no state personal income tax, helping explain why it remains a retirement favorite.
    That lifestyle can work well when money is not a major constraint, but retirees stretching a fixed income may want to weigh monthly costs carefully.
    Local officials say Naples' low elevation, Gulf frontage, bays, and canal system leave the city susceptible to flooding from major rain events and storm surge.
    That means the postcard version of Naples may look better than the long-term budget, especially for households comparing lifestyle appeal with practical ownership costs.
    For retirees with room in the budget, Naples can still be a terrific destination, but the key lesson is to balance amenities with risk.