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Welcome to effortless Florida living in this immaculate, fully furnished first-floor condo in the sought-after community of Buena Vista of Deep Creek. This move-in-ready unit offers ultimate convenience with easy ramp access and a covered carport located directly in front of your home. Step inside to an open and inviting floor plan featuring durable tile flooring throughout the main living areas and attractive laminate in the bedrooms. The spacious living area flows seamlessly to a private screened lanai, where you can enjoy serene golf course views. For your peace of mind, the lanai and windows are equipped with electric hurricane shutters — and as an added bonus, this property is situated outside of a flood zone, offering additional peace of mind and potential savings on insurance.
The primary suite serves as a private retreat, complete with a generous walk-in closet and a full ensuite bathroom. The smart split-bedroom layout ensures comfort and privacy for guests, and the convenience of an in-unit laundry room makes everyday chores a breeze. The Buena Vista community has recently undergone a significant revitalization, now boasting brand-new metal roofs, fresh exterior paint, and refreshed landscaping, making it one of the most desirable communities in the area. Residents also enjoy access to a beautiful and well-maintained community pool. Located in the heart of Punta Gorda's Deep Creek, you are just minutes from championship golf, shopping, waterfront dining in downtown Punta Gorda, and all the best lifestyle amenities of Southwest Florida. This is a perfect opportunity for a year-round residence, a seasonal getaway, or a savvy investment property. Don't miss out on this exceptional, move-in-ready gem.
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A flood zone doesn't have to be a dealbreaker if you know the rules of the game.
Here’s how you can navigate buying in a flood zone and save money: ✅ Get an Elevation Certificate: This is your #1 tool. A higher elevation can dramatically lower your insurance premium. ✅ Assume the Seller's Policy: Ask if the current owner has a flood insurance policy you can take over. It could be grandfathered in at a much lower rate! ✅ Paying Cash? The insurance isn't required, but it's highly recommended to protect your investment. ✅ Challenge the Zone: An incorrect map can be fixed with a LOMA (Letter of Map Amendment), potentially removing the requirement entirely. Knowledge is power in real estate. Don't walk away from a great home—walk in with a plan. Drop "FLOOD" in the comments or DM me directly to get started! Another two-bedroom condo at the Isles of Porto Vista is officially SOLD — and this one means so much.
This buyer was referred to me by wonderful clients I helped in the very same neighborhood just two months ago. There truly is no greater compliment than the trust of past clients sending their friends and family my way. Your confidence in me never goes unnoticed, and I’m incredibly grateful. Even more impressive — this was an out-of-state purchase. Through detailed video tours, constant communication, strategic negotiation, and step-by-step guidance from contract to closing, we made the entire process smooth and stress-free from afar. Now my buyer gets to enjoy their very own Southwest Florida vacation home! If you’re thinking about buying or selling in Southwest Florida — or know someone who is — I’d love to help them secure their own great deal. In today’s Florida market, pricing isn’t a guessing game — it’s a strategy.
The first few weeks on the market are when your home gets the most attention. That’s when serious buyers are watching. If a property is priced above market value, buyers don’t “come in low” — they move on. And the longer a home sits, the more buyers start to wonder what’s wrong with it. Price reductions often lead to weaker negotiating power and, in many cases, a lower final sales price than if the home had been priced correctly from the start. The goal isn’t to test the market. The goal is to position your home where the market responds. If you’re thinking about selling in Fort Myers, let’s talk about a pricing strategy that protects your equity and gets results. Message me for a customized market analysis. Exciting news! 2 pending contracts in the last 7 days!
I have spent the past year with these buyers searching for just the right home, and I’m thrilled to say we finally found the one worth saying “yes” to! The other is a special milestone: last year, I helped this couple find a rental, and now they’re ready to take the leap and purchase their very first home in the United States. What an incredible journey to be part of! Even better—on both properties, we negotiated the price down, with the seller covering my full compensation. On one of the homes, we also secured an additional 2% from the seller towards my buyer’s closing costs. I’m so proud to advocate for my clients and help them achieve great results! I’m thrilled for both buyers and looking forward to smooth, successful closings ahead. If you’re thinking about making a move or starting your own home search, let’s connect and make your real estate goals happen! Helping buyers from across the country buy in Southwest Florida? That’s my specialty.
I recently assisted a buyer with the purchase of a beautiful condo in Bella Terra in Estero — and we did it entirely remotely. From writing the contract, coordinating inspections, handling association approvals, all the way to closing… I took care of everything while the buyer was battling winter weather across the country. Bella Terra is such a sought-after community — resort-style pool, clubhouse, fitness center, tennis, pickleball, walking trails, and a real sense of community. Plus, you’re just minutes from Miromar Outlets, great restaurants, grocery stores, and a short drive to Southwest Florida’s gorgeous beaches. If you’re thinking about buying in Florida but don’t live here full-time, you don’t have to do it alone. Message me if you’re considering a move to Estero or Southwest Florida — I’d love to help you make it happen. After a 6-month wait, I’m beyond thrilled to have helped my buyer finally secure his brand-new dream home in the stunning Ibis Landing Golf & Country Club in Lehigh Acres, Florida.
This one didn’t come easy — the builder originally said no to our offer. But with persistence, strategy, and some tough negotiating, we turned that “no” into a huge WIN: $30,000 price reduction 6% of the purchase price in closing cost assistance A fantastic locked-in interest rate That’s real equity from Day 1 and a powerful start for my client’s future. I’m especially grateful that he trusted the process and stuck it out with me as we toured countless homes throughout the spring and summer of 2025 before finally finding the perfect place he can call home for many years to come. Thinking about buying or building and want an agent who will fight for your best deal? Let’s talk and make your dream home a reality! Another fantastic deal secured at the Isles of Porto Vista in Cape Coral, Florida!
Just helped a referred buyer lock in a great price on a two-bedroom condo in this beautiful, gated community. This referral came from buyers I assisted just last month in the same neighborhood—nothing makes me more grateful than the trust and confidence of past clients sending their friends and family my way. Since this buyer is purchasing from another state, I provided a detailed video tour of the condo and guided them through every step of the process—just as I’ve done for many other out-of-state buyers—from virtual showings, to negotiating a great deal, all the way through contract to close. I’m helping this buyer secure a wonderful vacation home from afar, making the process smooth and stress-free. Thinking about buying or selling in Southwest Florida or know someone who is? Send them my way—I’d love to help them score their own great deal! A few months ago, I met a buyer who had their heart set on a condo in Bella Terra in Estero.
Instead of rushing in, we played it smart. They waited patiently, watched the market, and when the price finally came down a bit—they took the leap. The result? ✅ A strong offer ✅ Accepted under asking price ✅ A great deal in one of Estero’s most desirable communities Bella Terra is loved for its resort-style amenities--clubhouse, fitness center, pool, tennis & pickleball courts, walking trails, and gated security--all just minutes from Miromar Outlets, Gulf Coast Town Center, RSW Airport, dining, and beautiful Southwest Florida beaches. Smart strategy + patience = wins like this. Looking forward to a successful closing and celebrating another happy buyer soon! Thinking about buying in Estero or waiting for the right opportunity? I’d love to help you time the market and negotiate a deal that works in your favor. Excited to share that I’ve helped my buyers secure a fantastic deal on a two-bedroom condo in the gated community of Isles of Porto Vista!
They’re adding this gem to their investment portfolio — a smart move in a community known for its charm, amenities, and strong rental appeal. If you’re thinking about investing in Southwest Florida or looking for your own slice of paradise, now is a great time to explore your options. Reach out to me today to start your search or get guidance on building your real estate portfolio! Discover modern Florida living in this 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom home located on a tranquil freshwater canal. Built in 2022, this residence offers contemporary style, durability, and comfort—located out of a flood zone for added peace of mind.
Step inside to an inviting open floor plan with 1,565 square feet of living space, highlighted by tile flooring throughout and clean, modern finishes. The spacious kitchen seamlessly connects to the living and dining areas, creating the perfect setting for everyday living or entertaining. Enjoy year-round sunshine with a west-facing rear exposure, ideal for taking in glowing sunsets over the canal. The home also features a convenient laundry room inside the residence, a two-car garage, and attractive paver driveway and walkway for added curb appeal. This property offers modern comfort in one of Cape Coral’s fastest-growing areas—perfect for full-time living, a vacation home, or an investment opportunity. Don’t miss your chance to own this move-in ready waterfront home for a great value—schedule your private showing today! ***Disclaimer: Some images of the exterior have been digitally enhanced for marketing purposes.*** I’m excited to share that we’ve officially closed on this fantastic condo! A huge congratulations to my buyers on adding another great investment property to their portfolio. Wishing you continued success and strong returns as this new opportunity starts working for you!
If you’re thinking about growing your own real estate portfolio — or exploring what investment opportunities Fort Myers has to offer — I’d love to help guide you. Reach out to get started on your next move. What a journey this has been! My buyers first set their sights on a condo in Naples — but with limited options at higher price points and HOA fees, we explored a new strategy. By speaking with their lender, they were able to get pre-approved at a higher amount for a single-family home while still staying within their monthly budget.
That opened the door to a whole new world of possibilities… including this beautiful 6-bedroom single-family home with more space than they imagined! We toured new construction communities, found the one, and I negotiated a fantastic deal on their behalf. Four months have gone by, and their BRAND-NEW home is ready to move in! Just in time for the holidays — the perfect start to a wonderful new chapter. If you’re dreaming of homeownership but aren’t sure where to start — or if your budget can stretch a little further — I’d love to guide you every step of the way. Let’s chat! I recently had the joy of helping a wonderful young couple find their very first home together—with a sweet baby on the way!
We spent several days touring so many stunning new construction homes (almost overwhelming with all the amazing options). The hardest part wasn’t finding something beautiful—it was narrowing it down! After much thought, they finally found THE ONE that checked every single box. Then came the tricky part—their offer was contingent on the sale of their current home, and they also requested seller assistance toward closing costs. Instead of letting those challenges derail the deal, I worked closely with the listing agent to find creative solutions, and guess what? We got it DONE! Seller agreed to cover a nice portion of the buyers’ closing costs. Even when the inspection revealed several items needing attention, we stayed proactive. The buyers requested literally every item be addressed—and the seller agreed to just about everything! We coordinated progress updates and when not all repairs could be completed before closing, negotiated an escrow holdback to ensure everything gets done right—in a specified frame of time. This journey took teamwork, patience, and persistence, but now this growing family is about to start their next chapter in a beautiful new home. Ready to start your own home journey? Whether you’re buying, selling, or just exploring your options, I’d love to guide you every step of the way! Let’s make your next move your best one. Thrilled to have helped my buyer secure a stunning investment property in a quiet, welcoming community — perfectly positioned along a beautiful golf course and just across the way from scenic Lakes Park!
Only minutes from Gulf Coast beaches, this condo offers the ideal mix of peaceful living and strong investment potential. Whether you’re looking to expand your portfolio or find your own piece of tranquility, Fort Myers has so much to offer. Thinking about investing or relocating to the Gulf Coast? Let’s connect and make your next move a smart one! I had the pleasure of helping my buyer secure a beautifully furnished turnkey home in the stunning Pelican Preserve, a premier 55+ resort-style community offering 27 holes of championship golf, pristine greens, and peaceful preserve views.
This buyer wanted a vacation home close to his buddy’s, and even though he purchased remotely, I handled everything—from negotiating a great deal and coordinating inspections to connecting him with trusted local pros. During the final walkthrough, I discovered a smoke detector sounding off—so I made sure it was taken care of before he arrived. Jake the Handyman replaced all smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, as a few were either missing or at the end of their useful life. I also placed a lockbox on the door so my buyer can easily access his new home when he flies into Fort Myers late this evening. A small investment and a few extra steps for peace of mind, safety, and a smooth arrival—ensuring my buyer’s first night in his Florida vacation home is nothing short of perfect! All he needs to bring is a suitcase and a toothbrush! Thinking about your own Florida getaway or vacation home? I’d love to help you find the perfect one and make the process stress-free—whether you’re local or buying from afar. My buyers and I spent several days touring a ton of gorgeous new construction homes—so many options, it was almost overwhelming! With so many great choices, narrowing it down was the hardest part, but they finally found THE ONE that checked every single box.
Here’s where it got challenging: their offer was contingent on the sale of their current home, which can sometimes make sellers nervous. Plus, the buyers requested that the seller help contribute towards their closing costs—no easy task, but you don’t receive what you don’t ask for. Instead of letting that be a deal-breaker, I worked with the listing agent to find a way to make it work and we got it DONE!
If you’re dreaming about a new construction home (or just don’t know where to start), let’s talk. Having the right mindset makes all the difference—and I’m here to help you WIN. In today’s market—where many homes sit for months without activity—this one went under contract in just 4 days after being listed!
My seller purchased the home in 2023, and with market conditions shifting, it was worth less than what they bought it for. With this in mind, I gave them a clear picture of what to expect. They were prepared for lower offers, trusted the data we reviewed, and were willing to be realistic and negotiate. The buyer initially came in lower than hoped, but with some back-and-forth (and a home warranty strategically added to sweeten the deal), we got it done! Even when inspection hurdles popped up and the buyer almost walked, I worked closely with their agent to find a solution that saved the deal. The result? A home sold in just 3 weeks in a challenging buyer’s market—proof that the right strategy, market knowledge, and persistence make all the difference. I’m grateful to have partnered with such a reasonable seller who trusted the process. Together, we made it happen! Thinking of selling but worried about today’s market? Let’s talk strategy. I’ll guide you every step of the way to get your home SOLD. Welcome to this charming 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom condo in the heart of Bonita Springs. Designed with an open floor plan, this home offers a spacious and inviting layout that flows seamlessly from the living area to the screened-in lanai. Enjoy peaceful mornings and tranquil evenings with serene views of the beautifully manicured garden and lake just beyond your back door.
The updated kitchen boasts modern finishes, abundant cabinet and counter space, and even a dedicated coffee/tea/beverage bar—perfect for entertaining or everyday convenience. Retreat to the lanai, complete with electric shutters for added storm protection, where you can relax and take in the scenery year-round. Located in a quiet 55+ community, residents enjoy access to a refreshing community pool, along with the comfort of a well-maintained neighborhood. This condo is ideally situated just minutes from shopping, dining, pristine beaches, and more, offering the best of Southwest Florida living. Contact me for more information or to schedule a private tour! I’m thrilled to share that I have a pending sale in the stunning Pelican Preserve resort-style 55+ premier active adult community with 27 holes of championship golf offering pristine greens and natural preserve surroundings.
This buyer was graciously referred to me by another client I recently helped close on a home in the very same community. Referrals mean the world to me, and I truly appreciate the trust my clients place in me after receiving top-notch service. This buyer wanted a vacation home close to his buddy’s, and I’m honored to guide him through the process of securing a beautifully furnished turnkey residence—all he’ll need is a suitcase and a toothbrush! Even though he’s purchasing remotely, I’m handling every step: negotiating a strong deal, coordinating inspections, and connecting him with trusted insurance providers to ensure he’s fully prepared when it’s time to take possession. Thinking about making a move or know someone who is? Let’s connect—I’d love to provide the same exceptional service and make the process smooth and stress-free. Under Contract in Just 4 DAYS!
We listed this beautiful home on Sunday and by Wednesday we had an offer and a win-win deal worked out for both the buyer and seller! The seller is thrilled to have secured a strong buyer so quickly — especially in a market where many homes are sitting for months without movement. Thanks to the excellent condition and broad appeal of the property, we were able to attract serious interest right away. It truly made all the difference! Feeling incredibly grateful to help make this smooth and successful transition happen. If you’re in Florida and thinking about buying or selling, let’s talk. Whether you need help pricing, preparing your home, or finding the perfect match, I’d love to show you how fast a well‑presented property can get results. Helping sellers from out of the country comes with extra responsibility—and I’m proud to say we got it done in record time.
My clients trusted me to handle the entire process while they were abroad.
It was a seamless transaction, and I’m so grateful to have made it stress-free for my clients, even from thousands of miles away. Selling your home remotely doesn’t have to be overwhelming—you just need the right agent on your side. Thinking of selling your home in Florida (even if you’re halfway across the globe)? Let’s talk. Welcome to this charming 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom home nestled on an oversized lot just under half an acre in desirable SE Cape Coral. With a newer roof (2023) and located out of a flood zone (X500), this home offers peace of mind and lasting value.
Inside, you’ll find a comfortable layout perfect for everyday living or a seasonal retreat. The residence is being offered fully furnished if desired, making it move-in ready from day one. The expansive lot provides plenty of room for a pool, additional storage or future expansion. Conveniently located near shopping, dining, and Cape Coral’s beautiful waterways, this home is an exceptional find for those seeking space, comfort, and Florida charm. Thrilled to have helped my buyer get under contract on their dream home in a stunning golf course community!
This one didn’t come easy — the builder originally said “No” to our offer, but after digging our heels in and some strategic negotiating, we got the price reduced by $30,000, secured closing cost assistance AND locked in a fantastic interest rate. That’s a massive WIN and true equity from Day 1 for my client! 🙌 Thinking about making a move but not sure how to navigate the market? Let’s connect — I’d love to help you win too! I’m excited to share that my buyer is now under contract on a beautiful waterfront property off of the Caloosahatchee River in Fort Myers. What makes this one extra special? I was able to negotiate seller financing—a creative solution that worked out as a win-win for both buyer and seller.
Deals like this remind me that every transaction is about more than just real estate—it’s about finding the right path forward for everyone involved. Grateful to guide my clients through these unique opportunities and thrilled to see this dream property come together! Thinking about buying or selling, but unsure how to make the numbers work? Let’s talk! Creative solutions like seller financing can open doors you didn’t think were possible. Contact me and let’s explore your options! |
AuthorRuth Hillestad is a trusted guide in buying and selling residential real estate in Lee County, Florida. Archives
March 2026
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