Hello from Naples!
March brings high season to Naples, and the energy here is fantastic. We’ve been enjoying the beautiful weather with our seasonal friends — savoring great meals and memorable experiences like sunset dinners right on the beach. Jeff also competed in The Strand Senior Club championship. He got off to a strong start but finished in second place after a tough back nine during his final round. He had a wonderful time and met some terrific people along the way.
On the business side, activity has really picked up. Later in this newsletter you’ll see that transactions are up year-over-year — excellent news for both buyers and sellers. As the season begins to wind down, we’re seeing stronger attendance at open houses and more calls from homeowners thinking about selling. We’re truly grateful for the trust our clients place in The Wakelin Team. If you have any real estate questions or are considering buying or selling in Naples, please don’t hesitate to reach out.
Here is a recent article from Florida Weekly: Do we still hear the waves? Noticing what we get used to and what to appreciate
I was at a party recently and talking to a gentleman that I had just met. He was a visitor in town, and I explained to him that I have been in Naples for many years now and very much enjoying it. At the time of the conversation, the beach was nearby, and he just causally said to me, “Do you still hear the waves?”
I didn’t think much of the comment at the time, and went on with more conversation and the party in general. It was later, maybe a few days later, that for some reason I started to think about his question. “Do I still hear the waves?” The question kind of stuck with me.
I started to think that maybe there were some different levels to that innocent inquiry. Certainly, there was more than the simple ask of hearing the sound of the waves. The one that hit me the most was, that after so many years here in Naples, and being around the water and the beaches, “Do I still hear the waves?” Or…do I take them for granted? Do I still appreciate the beauty of the sounds of the crashing waves as well as the beauty of the beach, the Gulf, the sunsets etc.? I hope so. But it was a reminder how easy it is to take for granted, or “get used to” the many wonderful things that our Naples community and Collier County have to offer.
To witness: Do we get used to or take for granted our incredibly beautiful weather? The days in January, February and March when much of the country is mired in freezing cold and we are able to enjoy the relative warmth and sunshine. Do we truly appreciate that each and every day?
I also hope we don’t “get used to” the numerous quality dining and restaurant selections that surround us in all directions. What a cornucopia of great dining options we have. Whenever visitors come in town asking for where the best place to dine is I always have trouble advising them. Too many good choices. How do you pick just one or two?
I hope we don’t get used to the amount of entertainment and music opportunities here in Naples. From the numerous theatre options to a variety of art shows, and live music seemingly offered anywhere and everywhere. All of that and much, much more, and we have to remind ourselves to appreciate all those options and not ever take them for granted.
I hope we don’t get used to the wonderful nature we have surrounding us here in Naples. From the lovingly serene parks to the Conservancy of Southwest Florida, to the Naples Zoo, to the various nature preserves and all points in between. The beauty of our natural habitat surrounds us here in Naples and Collier County each and every day. Do we take that for granted? Or do we take time to appreciate it each and every day?
I also hope we don’t get used to the amount of recreation opportunities we have in our town. From pickleball to tennis to golf to water sports, as well as soccer, and baseball fields and not to forget our professional soccer, hockey, and baseball teams we get to watch all within our friendly confines.
We could go on with more, as the list is long.
Suffice it to say we are lucky to spend time here in this wonderful location, no matter the amount of one’s stay.
Let it be a reminder that it is only human nature for any of us to get used to these beautiful things. Sometimes we have to remind ourselves how lucky we truly are. Sometimes we have to remember to always and forever— “hear the sound of the waves.”
Official March 2026 Climate Data at Naples Airport:
March brought a welcome bit of rain, with 2.33 inches recorded for the month. While appreciated, we remain behind for the year, with 3.65 inches compared to a typical 6.44. Temperatures continued to trend warmer, with highs reaching 91° and lows dipping to a comfortable 53°, offering a reminder that our “spring” season in Southwest Florida is highly desirable.
The upside is that humidity levels remain relatively low, creating what many consider the most enjoyable time of year in Naples. It’s no surprise that beaches, golf courses, and outdoor dining are all in full swing as residents and visitors take full advantage of these ideal conditions.
In short, this is the window everyone waits for—beautiful weather, vibrant activity, and a lifestyle that continues to define Naples at its best. 🌴☀️
Book Review: “The Only Women In The Room” by Marie Benedict
While history remembers her as a 1930s screen siren—most famous for Samson and Delilah—this historical fiction reveals she was far more than a beautiful face. Born in Austria, Lamarr’s story begins with a stifling marriage to Fritz Mandl, a wealthy arms dealer. This position placed her in the same room as dictators like Mussolini, where she overheard chilling plans for Hitler’s rise.
After fleeing her husband’s abuse in 1937, she was scouted in London and signed with MGM Studios. Yet, beneath the Hollywood glamour, she carried the heavy guilt of what she knew about the war. This burden fueled her brilliant mind to co-invent a groundbreaking torpedo guidance system. Though the military initially dismissed her invention, it eventually became a cornerstone of modern technology. It’s a powerful story of a woman whose intellect was just as striking as her beauty.
Here are a couple reviews on Amazon for The Only Women in the Room:
“This book was so amazing it centered around a brilliant woman and her life in Austria. It was entertaining while fascinating at her way of saving her people during Hitlers time!! A fast read, it’s that good!! I highly recommend this book to everyone!”
“Incredible! I’m a fan of online history quizzes which often ask which actress obtained a patent or developed technology that is used in marine warfare. I had heard the name Hedy Lamarr as an actress of the ‘30’s and ‘40’s. Her real story is so much more. In this historical story Marie Benedict proves once again that one should never underestimate the power of a woman. I want my pre-teen granddaughters to learn about this beautiful and brilliant inventor.”
Restaurant Review: Canary Club 10610 Founders Way #140 Bonita Springs
We love living in Naples, there are so many good restaurants here but you almost forget that just north of us in Bonita Springs, the food scene is just as vibrant. Jeff loves pizza, so when we were invited to meet some friends at the Canary Club, he was “all in” to try this eclectic pizza joint. Canary Club has middle-eastern inspired cuisine with a casual, Chef-focused approach. They use local produce for their seasonally rotating menu. They make their sourdough risen pizzas from scratch from a wood fired hearth.
Everything we had from the apps: melon & cucumber salad, wood roasted cauliflower and falafel to our shared entrees of the shroom shawarma pizza and gorgonzola-pear pizza was amazing! We would highly recommend Canary Club for a casual night out in the up-and-coming downtown Bonita Springs area.
Here are a few recent reviews on Yelp:
“Wow - what an amazing find. The food is incredible for such a small place. They have a great pizza oven which makes a difference in the quality of the bread. We had the hummus which was the best all of us had ever had with delicious homemade pita. The roasted cauliflower was equally incredible. We tried the mushroom pizza which was so delicious. We also had the Dubai chocolate dessert and the lemon olive oil cake which were both to die for. The drinks were creative and delicious. The quality of the food was such a surprise for a small, casual pizza place. We all can't wait to go back!”
“So perfect. Came in on Sunday for lunch. Attentive friendly staff. We had the melon and cucumbers and basically licked the plate it was so good. Perfect combo of sweet and salty. Also had the barbecue chicken pizza. It was delicious, great crust.”
Naples Real Estate: Here are the March 2026 Naples & Bonita Springs Market Statistics
Year-to-date results through the end of March 2026 are encouraging. Overall closed sales are up 17% compared to the same period in 2025, with gains across all price points. This continued activity is a positive signal for both buyers and sellers as we move toward the close of the season.
The table below highlights year-to-date performance which shows increased sales activity throughout the Naples and Bonita Springs markets.
As the following table shows, the level of inventory varies by price point:
Inventory levels continue to vary by price segment, creating different dynamics depending on where buyers and sellers are positioned. On average, the market is currently sitting at approximately 9 months of supply.
From our perspective, a balanced market is closer to 6 months of supply. While the increase in sales is a strong indicator of demand, the current inventory levels still place us in buyer-favorable territory—offering increased choice and negotiating leverage, particularly in certain price ranges.
What does this mean for you?
For buyers, this is an opportunity to be selective and strategic, with more options and flexibility than we’ve seen in recent years. For sellers, pricing and positioning are more important than ever—well-prepared properties are still moving and serious buyers remain active.
If you’re considering a move—whether buying or selling—this is a market where having a clear strategy makes all the difference. With over $300M + in closed sales, The Wakelin Team has the experience to move you!
Riverstone Real Estate:
Riverstone is the community where Jeff and Nicola live. Riverstone has numerous amenities available for residents to enjoy. You can spend days swimming and relaxing at the community resort-style pool, playing tennis, taking a fitness class or socializing in the community’s private clubhouse. Here’s a look at the MLS market in Riverstone as of April 3rd, 2026:
Here’s a breakdown of what’s currently on the market in MLS:
There are 20 active listings, 2 pending sale and 3 sales pending with contingencies. The MLS system lists 38 homes sold in the last 12 months. With average monthly sales at 3.16 per month, there is 6.33 months of inventory at Riverstone.
Stonecreek Real Estate:
Stonecreek is the sister community to Riverstone, about a mile up Logan Blvd. and was built by the same developer, GL Homes. Both communities offer social, vacation-inspired lifestyles with extensive amenities & A-rated schools. Stonecreek is a bit newer and home prices in this community tend to be a bit higher than Riverstone. Here’s a look at the MLS market in Stonecreek as of April 3rd 2026:
Here’s a breakdown of what’s currently on the market in MLS:
There are 13 active listings, 1 pending sale and 5 sales pending with contingencies. The MLS system lists 34 homes sold in the last 12 months. With average monthly sales at 2.83 per month, there is 4.59 months of inventory at Stonecreek.
Valencia Trails Real Estate:
Valencia Trails is the active, adult community about 5 miles east on Immokalee Road from Riverstone and was built by the same developer, GL Homes. As a 55+ lifestyle community, Valencia Trails offers even more amenities than Riverstone and Stonecreek including a 43,00 SF clubhouse, that includes a theater for live performances, a spa, a restaurant and pool bar. The fitness facilities and calendar of events are extensive. Here’s a look at the MLS market in Valencia Trails as of April 3rd, 2026:
Here’s a breakdown of what’s currently on the market in MLS:
There are 35 active listings and 0 sales pending and 5 sales pending with contingencies. The MLS system lists 45 homes sold in the last 12 months; however, this number includes many new construction and builder spec homes. With average monthly sales 3.75 per month, there is about 9.8 months of inventory at Valencia Trails.
With over $300M in closes sales, The Wakelin Team as the experience to move you! Give us a call if we can help with any real estate questions you have at 239-451-9351.
