Wednesday, September 2, 2026 / by Lela Ashkarian
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 retirement, moving closer to family, purchasing another home, simplifying your ...
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Tuesday, August 25, 2026 / by Lela Ashkarian
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 ...
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dreamhomegoalsfloridakeys, sellersindemand, chooseashkarianforresults, floridakeyshomesforsale, sellsmartinfloridakeys, unlockyourhomepotential, unleashyourhome'spotential, lelaashkarian, floridakeysluxurylistings, discoveryourhomevalue, smartsellersdecide, toplistingagent, coldwellbanker, partnerwiththebest, keycolonybeachvacationrentals, investmentproperitesinmarathon, marathonfloridakeys, benefitpurchasinginfloridakeys, homevalue, internatioanlpresidentelite, whypurchaseinmin7daysvacationrentals, firstimehomebuyers
Thursday, August 6, 2026 / by Lela Ashkarian
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 ...
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dreamhomegoalsfloridakeys, sellersindemand, chooseashkarianforresults, floridakeyshomesforsale, sellsmartinfloridakeys, unlockyourhomepotential, unleashyourhome'spotential, expertadviceforsellers, lelaashkarian, floridakeysluxurylistings, discoveryourhomevalue, smartsellersdecide, toplistingagent, coldwellbanker, partnerwiththebest, keycolonybeachvacationrentals, investmentproperitesinmarathon, homevalue, internatioanlpresidentelite, whypurchaseinmin7daysvacationrentals, firstimehomebuyers
Monday, February 2, 2026 / by Lela Ashkarian
Is Elevation Adding Six Figures to Your Home’s Value?
In today’s Florida Keys market, elevation has quietly become one of the most powerful drivers of value—often without homeowners realizing it.
For years, buyers focused on waterfront views, dockage, and finishes. Those still matter. But now, what sits beneath the home—its elevation relative to flood zones—can influence price just as much as what’s inside it.
Why Elevation Matters More Than Ever
Elevation impacts three things buyers care deeply about:
Insurance costs – Above-flood homes often qualify for significantly lower premiums
Risk exposure – Less concern about storm surge, flooding, and future regulatory changes
Peace of mind – A lifestyle benefit that buyers are increasingly willing to pay for
When buyers compare two similar homes, the one above flood frequently feels like the safer, smarter long-term choice—even if it costs more upfront.
How m ...
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sellersindemand, dreamhomegoalsfloridakeys, floridakeyshomesforsale, sellsmartinfloridakeys, unleashyourhome'spotential, unlockyourhomepotential, keycolonybeachvacationrentals, marathonfloridakeys, internatioanlpresidentelite, homevalue, whypurchaseinmin7daysvacationrentals
Tuesday, June 3, 2025 / by Lela Ashkarian
Discover Your Dream Home in the Enchanting Florida Keys
Let's Find Your Dream Home in the Florida Keys!
How our Buyers Found their Home with
Lela Ashkarian
lela@cbschmitt.com
305-395-0814
www.SearchFloridaKeysHomes.com
There's a unique charm and unparalleled beauty that draws people to the Florida Keys. We at Coldwell Banker Schmitt would be delighted to guide you through the mesmerizing landscape of our community. With a 72-hour notice, we can curate an unforgettable, personalized home-viewing experience for you.
Buying a home is no small task—it's a journey, and we're here to walk alongside you at every step.
Our initial consultation will provide an opportunity to understand your unique criteria, enabling us to assist you in finding your ideal home amidst the serene beauty of the Florida Keys.
To make your journey smoother, we encourage you to share your top five must-haves for your dream home: https://ashkarianardis-homesearc ...
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