Snowbird season is upon us in South Florida, and it’s the busiest one we’ve seen in our a little over 3 years living here. Even with the colder weather, the beaches are packed, and the traffic is backed up for many miles. It takes 3 times as long to get over the drawbridge as it usually does, and extra caution is required when driving along the beach as the tourists are enjoying leisurely stroll across the road and are not paying attention. Not that Florida drivers care! They are their usual obnoxious selves any time of year.
Restaurants are packed, and you need to get an advance reservation for your favorite dining place if you want to get in for dinner. It’s usually not a problem anywhere except for Miami, but now even places less frequented by tourists, far away from the beach, are hard to get into. And of course, you can’t find a spot at the beach diners if your life depended on it.
The South Florida season is “Dr Jekyll and Mr. Hyde” creature. We love the excitement, the glitz, and the business it brings to local communities. But it is also annoying, especially the traffic, lack of parking, the crowds, and the service at restaurants being much slower because they are understaffed (seasonal labor is a thing, restaurant owners!) But all in all, we are having fun being the nation’s top travel destination.
As far as real estate is concerned, it seems to be picking up. 2024 was an exceptionally slow year, especially for condominium sales. HOA assessments and high interest rates kept the buyers away. Rental market was stagnant as well. Election turmoil did not help, as home buyers don’t like uncertainty. But last few weeks we have been super busy with calls, showings, inquiries, and guests. Hoping for this trend to continue through the year, and better economic outlook for all.
South Florida season is an existing time for Satinleaf Properties. If you want to come visit, be our guest!
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