Property of the WEEK
Lela Ashkarian, ABR, CRS, GRI, e-pro
305-395-0814
Beyond Marketing: How We Position Your Property to Sell

The real estate market does not shift overnight. It changes gradually—one new listing, one price reduction, and one buyer decision at a time. Eventually, the change becomes impossible to ignore. In many areas today, more properties are competing for fewer buyers. That does not mean you should give your property away. It means that pricing, presentation, timing, and ongoing strategy matter more than ever.

Marketing creates exposure. Thoughtful positioning creates the opportunity to sell. When you list with us, our work does not end when your property enters the MLS. We continually study how buyers are responding, what competing properties are doing, and whether your home is positioned to become the buyer’s best choice.
We Begin by Understanding Your Why. Every seller has a different reason for selling. You may be preparing for retirem ...

There’s a great deal of conversation surrounding Florida real estate right now—and if you’re watching the Florida Keys market, here’s what you should know:
 
Opportunity exists for both buyers and sellers, but the right strategy makes all the difference.
Nearly 90% of recent Monroe County sales closed below the asking price.
 
If you’re buying, don’t hesitate to make an offer. There may be room to negotiate the price, terms, or both. A thoughtful offer can begin a productive conversation.
 
If you’re selling, pricing should be viewed as a strategy—not simply a number. Today’s buyers are informed and selective, and the way your property is positioned can shape the entire outcome.
 
Every property and situation is unique. Knowing where you have leverage—and how to use it effectively—is essential.  Below is the Video of the Property of the Week, Click on the Photo 
 

And whe ...

Florida Keys Real Estate Market Update
January–July 2026 compared with 2025
Lela Ashkarian, PA, ABR, CRS, GRI, e-PRO 
29 years serving the Community 
The Florida Keys real estate market is showing renewed strength. During the first seven months of 2026, 1,189 residential properties sold Keys-wide—12.4% more than during the same period last year.
The average sale price increased 12.5% to approximately $1.45 million. Total sales volume reached $1.72 billion, a strong increase of 26.4%. Simply put, more homes are selling, and buyers are spending more money than they did last year.
There are also fewer properties for sale. Active listings dropped 8.2%, while the available supply fell from 10.2 months to 8.3 months. This means buyers have fewer choices, which may help well-priced homes attract more attention.
However, pricing remains very important. The average property took 109 days to sell—12 days longer than last year. Homes sold for about 93.7% of theil ...

Best Income-Producing Property Types in the Middle Keys
1. Single-Family Homes in Marathon and Key Colony Beach
Single-family homes in Marathon and Key Colony Beach are top choices for vacation rentals due to their weekly rental allowances. Waterfront properties, particularly those on canals or with ocean access, command premium rental rates. However, note that some neighborhoods, like Stirrup Key in Marathon, have homeowner’s associations (HOAs) that prohibit short-term rentals, so always confirm HOA rules before investing.
Why Invest?
Weekly rentals maximize income during peak and off-peak seasons.
Waterfront homes attract high demand from vacationers.
Marathon and Key Colony Beach offer a relaxed, tourist-friendly vibe.
2. Half Duplexes and Full Duplexes
Duplexes and half-duplexes are especially popular in Key Colony Beach for vacation rentals. These properties offer flexibility, allowing owners to rent one or both units while potentially using the other for personal u ...

Beaches in the Middle Keys
The Middle Keys, including Marathon and Duck Key, are home to some of the region’s most inviting beaches. These spots offer everything from family-friendly amenities to natural preserves teeming with wildlife.
Sombrero Beach (Marathon)
Sombrero Beach is a local favorite, known for its soft white sand, turquoise waters, and amenities like volleyball courts, picnic pavilions, restrooms, and a playground. It’s pet-friendly and accessible, making it perfect for families. Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling, and may even spot sea turtles nesting during certain seasons.
Coco Plum Beach (Marathon)
Coco Plum Beach is a more natural, less crowded beach on the Atlantic Ocean side of Marathon. It features soft white sand, shallow waters, and an adjacent wetland area. Facilities include restrooms and a covered pavilion. This beach is also a turtle nesting site and is dog-friendly, making it a peaceful spot for nature lovers and fami ...