Southwest Florida has been experiencing a strange real estate boom these last few years and it’s not just limited to its bustling cities. As we know more rural areas like Naples, Fort Myers, and Miami have exploded. In fact, we saw more rapid growth and movement than at any other time in Florida’s history – with a rise in prices that outpaced the housing boom from 2006 and 2007. However, as migration from northern states has slowed somewhat and prices have cooled, Florida’s cultural landscape is shifting drastically.
The rural counties of Hendry and Glades are seeing unprecedented growth spurned by the exodus of Florida-natives from larger metro areas looking to recapture that slower pace of life, but it is presenting both opportunities and challenges for residents and investors alike.
The Allure of Rural Living
Hendry and Glades Counties have long been known for their rural charm, offering a slower pace of life away from the hustle and bustle of cities like Fort Myers and Naples. As many from Miami have moved to Southwest Florida trying to escape the hustle and bustle of the metro areas that are bursting at the seams, many are choosing Glades & Hendry counties as their next stop in Florida. However, recent developments suggest that this tranquility is attracting more than just retirees looking for a peaceful haven.
"Rural Florida is growing quickly, we're seeing big investments from a select large residential builders and size-able investments from smaller local builders. This marrying of local and national companies with the demand that's been created, in an old Florida style is helping to propel Glades & Hendry counties. For example - LGI Homes, Inc. and their new community Liberty Shores west of LaBelle on the Caloosahatchee River is offering new home designs, satisfying a massive demand for residences throughout Southwest Florida," said Kevin Bartlett, Founder of CobiaHoldings.com, a real estate investment firm based in Fort Myers.
The Allure of Rural Living
Hendry and Glades Counties have long been known for their rural charm, offering a slower pace of life away from the hustle and bustle of cities like Fort Myers and Naples. As many from Miami have moved to Southwest Florida trying to escape the hustle and bustle of the metro areas that are bursting at the seams, many are choosing Glades & Hendry counties as their next stop in Florida. However, recent developments suggest that this tranquility is attracting more than just retirees looking for a peaceful haven.
"Rural Florida is growing quickly, we're seeing big investments from a select large residential builders and size-able investments from smaller local builders. This marrying of local and national companies with the demand that's been created, in an old Florida style is helping to propel Glades & Hendry counties. For example - LGI Homes, Inc. and their new community Liberty Shores west of LaBelle on the Caloosahatchee River is offering new home designs, satisfying a massive demand for residences throughout Southwest Florida," said Kevin Bartlett, Founder of CobiaHoldings.com, a real estate investment firm based in Fort Myers.
We’re seeing a lot of people who were here pre-covid (before the explosion of the real estate market) choose to either move to the rural areas of Florida including Glades & Hendry or simply leave Florida completely for less-expensive options in Georgia or the Carolinas.
The Growth Numbers
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, LaBelle, a city in Hendry County, has seen its population grow by about 10% in the past five years. Hendry County itself has grown by roughly 6%, now boasting a population of about 42,000. These numbers while slower than their larger neighbors Lee & Collier, are much more sustainable and are picking up pace, now that the boom has started to subside.
The Double-Edged Sword of Development
While growth often brings economic prosperity, it also comes with its own set of challenges. A recent WGCU report highlighted concerns among long-time residents about the changing character of their communities. The construction of a new three-story, 18-unit apartment building in the city of LaBelle, for instance, has sparked debates about the loss of the town's country charm. This same sentiment has been growing for some time in Lee County for example and has already completely changed the local landscape and communities therein.
An Investor's Perspective
For real estate investors, the growth in Hendry and Glades Counties presents a golden opportunity. The relatively low property prices compared to other Florida markets make it an attractive option for both first-time investors and seasoned pros.
The Road Ahead
As Hendry and Glades Counties continue to grow, the challenge will be to balance development with the preservation of the area's unique rural lifestyle. Community leaders, investors, and residents will need to come together to ensure that the counties' growth is sustainable and beneficial for all.
Final Thoughts
The real estate boom in Hendry and Glades Counties is a testament to the enduring appeal of rural Florida. As the area continues to develop, it will be crucial to navigate the fine line between growth and preservation, ensuring that the counties remain a desirable place to live, work, and invest in for years to come.
For those looking to capitalize on this growth, the time to act is now. Contact a local real estate expert to explore the best investment opportunities tailored to your needs. Don't miss out on this exciting chapter in Southwest Florida's development story.
The Growth Numbers
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, LaBelle, a city in Hendry County, has seen its population grow by about 10% in the past five years. Hendry County itself has grown by roughly 6%, now boasting a population of about 42,000. These numbers while slower than their larger neighbors Lee & Collier, are much more sustainable and are picking up pace, now that the boom has started to subside.
The Double-Edged Sword of Development
While growth often brings economic prosperity, it also comes with its own set of challenges. A recent WGCU report highlighted concerns among long-time residents about the changing character of their communities. The construction of a new three-story, 18-unit apartment building in the city of LaBelle, for instance, has sparked debates about the loss of the town's country charm. This same sentiment has been growing for some time in Lee County for example and has already completely changed the local landscape and communities therein.
An Investor's Perspective
For real estate investors, the growth in Hendry and Glades Counties presents a golden opportunity. The relatively low property prices compared to other Florida markets make it an attractive option for both first-time investors and seasoned pros.
The Road Ahead
As Hendry and Glades Counties continue to grow, the challenge will be to balance development with the preservation of the area's unique rural lifestyle. Community leaders, investors, and residents will need to come together to ensure that the counties' growth is sustainable and beneficial for all.
Final Thoughts
The real estate boom in Hendry and Glades Counties is a testament to the enduring appeal of rural Florida. As the area continues to develop, it will be crucial to navigate the fine line between growth and preservation, ensuring that the counties remain a desirable place to live, work, and invest in for years to come.
For those looking to capitalize on this growth, the time to act is now. Contact a local real estate expert to explore the best investment opportunities tailored to your needs. Don't miss out on this exciting chapter in Southwest Florida's development story.
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