Your Place in the Sun

If you haven't noticed already, owning a home in Southwest Florida is a great investment. Places that sold for $200,000 just three years ago are fetching twice that now; fixer-uppers are touted as potential investment opportunities; and property is gold-whether it's on the beach, by a golf course or in what was once the middle of nowhere. But while most Gulfshore homes are great investments, there's still a lot to think about as you search for your special place in the sun. Will it be the place to spend your days with toes planted firmly in the sand, the place to enjoy a round of 18 in your own back yard, the place to shop and people-watch on Naples' Fifth Avenue South, or maybe all the above?

Whatever your version of paradise, Gulfshore Life's Homebuyer is your go-to resource to help you find it. We introduce you to the unique neighborhoods of Collier and Lee counties, describing their locations, character and what you can expect to pay for a single-family home or condo there. What we found might surprise you: Some sought-after neighborhoods are still affordable, though you might have to sacrifice a bedroom or bathroom. We also uncovered a common theme: a tenfold difference in the low and high price range, with $200,000 homes often just blocks from $2 million homes.

You'll also read about the new International Design Center set to open this fall in Estero. IDC brings upscale designer goods for the home to a one-stop local hub-including the most exclusive lines of tile, furniture, cabinetry, wall coverings and fabrics. You'll also meet the best in the business: The award-winning developers, builders and interior designers who brought home stacks of Aurora, Pinnacle and Sand Dollar awards for their unique vision and imaginative homes that represent the ultimate in Southwest Florida living. Some of the winners share the secrets behind these stunning model homes and private residences, providing insight into the designs and decisions that make them so great.

And, as always, Homebuyer provides a comprehensive listing of new communities and builders skilled at creating the home of your dreams. In addition, you'll find all the nuts-and-bolts details to make your relocation a smooth one-everything from contacts for phone, cable and utilities companies to info on local public, private and parochial schools.

So much more than a wise investment, your Southwest Florida home will lay the foundation for priceless memories for years to come. Homebuyer is here to steer you in the right direction.

-Nanci Theoret, Real Estate Editor