Southwest Florida Real Estate News & Market Trends

You’ll find our blog to be a wealth of information, covering everything from local market statistics and home values to community happenings. That’s because we care about the community and want to help you find your place in it. Please reach out if you have any questions at all. We’d love to talk with you!

 

March 13, 2025

Move Out Before Eviction - Episode 4 - Bartomeo Property Management

Move Out Before Eviction - Episode 4 - Bartomeo Property Management

https://youtu.be/gkDWmFzHTRo

Posted in Videos
March 6, 2025

Tenant Eviction- Bartomeo Property Management- Episode 3

Tenant Eviction- Bartomeo Property Management- Episode 3

https://youtu.be/lCQzU-w1mGg

 

Feb. 26, 2025

Blowing the competition out of the water

Below is information provided from a colleague about fee being quoted to them from a property management company. As a property manager in Cape Coral, Ft Myers, Punta Gorda, and Naples they asked me to review them. Due to the extreme differences I thought that I would share them with everyone. In black is what the competitor charges and in red is our charges.
You will see that there are a lot of $0 next to our fees and that we are extremely fair with our owners.
Management & Leasing Fees
  1. Management Fee: 10% of the monthly rent 10% or less depending on the owner
  2. Leasing Fee (Tenant Placement): 60% of one month’s rent 50%
  3. Lease Renewal Fee: $250 per lease renewal $60
Upfront & Annual Fees
  1. Onboarding Fee: $350 (one-time for setting up the property) $0
  2. Annual Administrative Fee: $45 per year (for statements and 1099s) $0
  3. Reserve Fund Requirement: $300 (held for maintenance and expenses) $0
Maintenance & Repairs
  1. Ordinary Maintenance: Any repair costs exceeding $300 require owner approval. $500
  2. Emergency Repairs: Up to $300 without prior approval; HVAC, plumbing, and electrical repairs can go up to $500 without approval. $500
  3. Home Warranty Claim Handling: $40 per claim (if applicable). $0
  4. Multiple Quotes Request Fee: $100 per request if you require multiple vendor quotes. $0
  5. HVAC Filter Supply Fee: $195 per year per HVAC unit. N/A
  6. Repairs & Improvements: 10% markup over vendor invoice cost. 0% if below $2500, a roof, or AC. 10% above $2500
Additional Fees
  1. Interest on Unpaid Sums: 10% late fee with a $39 minimum per month. 10% or less of the late fee depending on the owner. No charge for uncollected sums.
  2. Paper Check Administrative Fee: $20 per check if not using direct deposit. $0
  3. Insurance Documentation Penalty: $40 per month if proof of insurance is not provided. $0
  4. Eviction Protection Program (Optional): $15/month $0
  5. Property Damage Protection Program (Optional): $25/month $0
Termination Fees
  1. Early Termination Fee: Equal to the management fees for the remaining lease term. $500
  2. Vacant Property Termination Fee: $500 if no tenant is in place. $500
  3. Transfer to Another Manager: $500 file transfer fee. $0
Feb. 21, 2025

Possible Squatters - A Day In The Life Of A Property Manager! Episode 2 Bartomeo Property Management

Possible Squatters - A Day In The Life Of A Property Manager! Episode 2 Bartomeo Property Management

https://youtu.be/CDUSUu7HZVo

 

Posted in Videos
Feb. 14, 2025

Market Update Feb 2025 - SWFL, Cape Coral, Ft. Myers, Naples

Attached is the Jan Market Review for single family homes in SWFL (Lee and Collier Counties). There are 8 categories that are reported here, please see the attachment. YOY - 4 are extremely negative and 4 are slightly positive. MOM - 2 are positive and 6 are negative. The condo market is much worse, negative in every category YOY and negative in 5 MOM. 17 MOS.
The biggest issue that we are having is with the inventory levels. There has been an extreme spike over the past 3 months. I sent a market update to our owners once Trump won because the inventory spiked then and has not stopped. We have an 11-month supply of inventory which signals EXTREME BUYERS MARKET. Although, we have been in a buyers' market for most of 2024 it was not this extreme. 
To make it a little easier to understand, 11 MOS is like saying that there are 100 homes are on the market but there are only 9 people that are going to buy a house. The listing that will sell will be a combination of the nicest houses, in the nicest areas, for the best price.
With the high levels of inventory, we are going to see 
  • A big drop in pricing
  • An increase in DOM
  • An increase in negotiations that will benefit the buyer
  • An increase in price reductions
  • An increase in annual rental inventory
  • A decrease in annual rental pricing
Unlike the stock market, real estate is very slow to react, but we are already feeling the effects in Feb. but we already see the effects in the month of Feb.
Posted in Selling a Home
Feb. 10, 2025

Possible Homeless at Rentals

What property managers should do when there is a report of possible homeless.

https://youtu.be/wEtkojZtek8?si=-qDpUexarO08vr8c

 

Jan. 16, 2025

Tenants Scammed! Bartomeo Property Mangement Creates Silver Lining! Interview With Fox News

In a heartwarming turn of events, a young couple from Lehigh Acres, Florida, recently experienced the compassion and integrity of Bartomeo Property Management after falling victim to a rental scam. Angira Lopez and her boyfriend, Joshua, had unknowingly moved into a home fraudulently rented to them by a scammer, costing them $2,650. Their distress was met with empathy and swift action from Bartomeo Property Management, who not only waived their first month's rent but also arranged flexible payment plans for future payments, allowing the couple to remain in their new home.

 

This incident underscores the importance of working with reputable property management companies. Bartomeo Property Management has since implemented additional safeguards to prevent such scams, including conducting in-person showings and verifying identities before granting property access. Their proactive measures and dedication to tenant well-being highlight their commitment to providing safe and secure housing experiences.

 

For those seeking rental properties, it's crucial to engage with established property management firms like Bartomeo Property Management to ensure legitimacy and support. Their response to this unfortunate situation not only provided immediate relief to the affected couple but also reinforced the value of integrity and tenant care in the rental industry.

See the full news story using the link below.

'Karma will always get you': Lehigh Acres couple fall victim to rental scam

Dec. 28, 2024

2025 Rental Market Projections for Cape Coral, Fort Myers, and Southwest Florida: A Cooling Trend Ahead?

he rental market in Southwest Florida (SWFL), encompassing cities like Cape Coral and Fort Myers, has experienced substantial growth in recent years, fueled by migration, post-pandemic relocations, and surging demand. However, as 2025 approaches, emerging trends suggest that rental prices in the region might begin to cool or even decrease. Here’s a closer look at the factors contributing to this potential decline and its implications for the region.

1. Stabilizing Demand Post-COVID Boom

The pandemic-induced migration boom, where people flocked to SWFL for its warmer climate and remote work opportunities, has started to normalize. With fewer people relocating from urban centers, demand for rentals is expected to stabilize or decrease.

  • Outmigration: Rising costs of living and the increasing frequency of extreme weather events, such as Hurricane Ian, may deter some potential renters from choosing the region, reducing demand​ .
  • Remote Work Shift: Many companies are pushing employees to return to offices, decreasing the inflow of remote workers who fueled demand for SWFL rentals.

2. Increased Inventory

SWFL's construction industry has rebounded, with developers completing projects that were delayed during the pandemic. This influx of new rental units is set to increase the supply significantly in 2025.

  • Multi-Family Housing Growth: Developers have focused on building apartment complexes and townhomes, targeting renters priced out of the home-buying market​ .
  • Short-Term Rental Regulations: Stricter local regulations on short-term rentals are leading some property owners to transition their investments into long-term rental inventory, further boosting availability.

3. Economic Pressures on Renters

High inflation and economic uncertainty are making it harder for many renters to keep up with increasing prices. This could force landlords to lower rents to avoid vacancies.

  • Affordability Concerns: Despite wage growth, rents in SWFL are among the highest in Florida. Landlords may need to adjust prices to match what tenants can afford​ .
  • Shift in Preferences: Some renters may opt for smaller units or move to less expensive neighboring regions, reducing demand for larger, high-cost properties.

4. Federal and State Interventions

Policy changes aimed at increasing affordability could further impact the rental market:

  • Housing Assistance Programs: Adjustments to federal housing vouchers and fair market rents (FMR) might pressure landlords to offer competitive pricing​ .
  • Incentives for Affordable Housing: Florida’s focus on workforce housing initiatives could lead to more affordable options entering the market, creating downward pressure on rental prices overall.

5. Weather-Driven Impacts

The lingering effects of Hurricane Ian and heightened awareness of climate risks are influencing renters’ decisions:

  • Insurance Costs and Perception: Rising property insurance rates and climate-related concerns might make renting in SWFL less attractive, reducing demand​ .
  • Seasonal Shifts: Snowbirds and seasonal renters may look to less disaster-prone areas, further cooling the market.

Outlook for 2025

While rental prices in SWFL are unlikely to drop dramatically, they are expected to stabilize or decrease modestly due to the combination of increased supply, normalizing demand, and economic pressures. For renters, this could mean more options and slightly better affordability. For landlords and investors, adjusting expectations and focusing on quality offerings may be crucial to staying competitive in a cooling market.

As SWFL continues to evolve, local governments, developers, and community leaders will play a key role in ensuring a balanced rental market that supports both growth and affordability.

Dec. 21, 2024

The Effect of Falling Oil Prices on Southwest Florida Real Estate

Oil prices play a pivotal role in shaping the broader economy, influencing everything from transportation costs to consumer spending. In Southwest Florida (SWFL), a region known for its real estate market fueled by tourism, retirees, and a growing population, fluctuations in oil prices can create significant ripple effects. Here's a closer look at how lowering oil prices could impact real estate sales in SWFL.

Lower oil prices often translate to reduced costs for transportation and energy, putting more money in consumers' pockets. This increase in disposable income can make homeownership more attainable for many:

  • Boost in Relocation Demand: SWFL is a popular destination for retirees and second-home buyers. With reduced travel costs, more individuals may consider relocating or purchasing vacation homes.
  • Reduced Living Costs: Lower energy costs can make homeownership more appealing by lowering utility bills, which may encourage more buyers to enter the market.

Tourism is a cornerstone of SWFL's economy, and lower oil prices can make the region more accessible to domestic travelers driving from other parts of Florida or neighboring states:

  • Boost in Seasonal Sales: Lower fuel costs may encourage more snowbirds to drive to SWFL for the winter season, potentially boosting demand for short-term rentals or second homes.
  • Increased Tourism Revenues: With cheaper travel, more visitors may bolster the local economy, indirectly supporting real estate markets as businesses thrive and jobs are created.

Oil prices directly affect the cost of materials and transportation in the construction industry. Lower oil prices can reduce costs for developers, potentially accelerating housing projects:

  • More Affordable Housing Supply: Builders may pass along savings to buyers, contributing to a more affordable housing market.
  • Increased Development: Lower costs may encourage developers to take on new projects, potentially increasing the housing inventory in SWFL.

Falling oil prices can stimulate broader economic growth by reducing transportation and production costs across industries. This stability can positively affect real estate markets:

  • Improved Consumer Confidence: A healthier economy can encourage more buyers to invest in property.
  • Business Expansion: Reduced operating costs can lead to job creation and population growth, increasing demand for housing.

While lower oil prices can have many positive effects, there are potential downsides, particularly for regions dependent on oil production or related industries. While SWFL is not an oil-dependent economy, national instability in energy markets could create broader economic concerns, affecting consumer confidence.

Lower oil prices offer a generally positive outlook for the SWFL real estate market, encouraging growth in both demand and supply. By reducing costs for consumers and developers, these shifts can make the region even more attractive to buyers. However, maintaining economic stability will be crucial to fully realizing these benefits. As oil prices continue to fluctuate, SWFL’s real estate market will remain closely tied to broader economic trends.

Posted in Buying a Home
Dec. 14, 2024

The Ripple Effects of Mass Deportation on Real Estate Markets

Mass deportation policies, like those proposed during political debates, carry far-reaching economic consequences. Among the many industries affected, real estate could see significant shifts in both residential and commercial markets. Here's a closer look at how such policies might impact the housing sector.

A substantial portion of the undocumented immigrant population resides in rental properties. Mass deportation would likely lead to a surge in vacancies, particularly in areas with large immigrant communities. This reduction in demand could drive rental prices down, impacting landlords' profitability, especially in urban areas or regions with tight rental markets.

  • Impact on Multi-Family Housing: Landlords of multi-family properties might struggle to fill units, leading to reduced revenue. This could deter future investment in similar developments in these areas.
  • Neighborhood Stability: High vacancy rates could destabilize communities, potentially increasing crime rates or reducing property maintenance.

Many undocumented immigrants own homes, either directly or through family members. Deportation could result in a wave of distressed properties entering the market as these families are forced to abandon homes or sell under pressure.

  • Declining Property Values: An influx of foreclosed or distressed homes could depress surrounding property values, especially in neighborhoods with significant immigrant populations.
  • Loss of Mortgage Payments: Banks and lending institutions may face increased defaults, particularly if homeowners with undocumented status were contributing to mortgage payments.

The construction sector relies heavily on immigrant labor, documented and undocumented alike. A mass deportation policy could exacerbate existing labor shortages in this industry, driving up costs and delaying housing projects.

  • Reduced New Builds: Fewer workers could mean fewer new homes, exacerbating housing shortages in areas already struggling with affordability.
  • Increased Costs: Higher wages for a smaller labor pool might raise construction costs, which could be passed on to buyers, further straining affordability.

The commercial sector could also face challenges, particularly in industries heavily reliant on immigrant workers, such as agriculture, hospitality, and food services. A significant workforce reduction could lead to closures, reducing demand for commercial spaces.

  • Retail Impact: Businesses catering to immigrant communities may experience revenue declines, leading to vacant retail spaces.
  • Industrial Spaces: Warehouses and agricultural facilities might see reduced demand if labor shortages cause operations to shrink.

Mass deportation could have a cascading effect on the broader economy, including a decline in GDP and consumer spending. As immigrants contribute substantially to local economies, their absence might slow economic growth, further affecting the real estate market.

  • Shrinking Tax Bases: Local governments could face revenue declines, limiting their ability to invest in community improvements that boost property values.
  • Consumer Confidence: Uncertainty surrounding immigration policies could dampen consumer confidence, slowing home sales and real estate investments.

While immigration policies are a complex and politically charged issue, their potential impact on the real estate market cannot be overlooked. Policymakers, investors, and community leaders should consider the economic and social ramifications of mass deportation and work toward solutions that balance enforcement with economic stability.

Proactive measures—such as supporting affected communities, addressing labor shortages, and stabilizing neighborhoods—could help mitigate these risks while fostering resilience in the real estate market.

Posted in Selling a Home