At the southernmost point of the enchanting Florida Keys, Key West offers its own unique blend of luxury living, vibrant culture, and breathtaking natural beauty. To learn more about this real estate hotspot, we spoke with Will Langley, Principal Broker of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Keys Real Estate and Knight & Gardner Realty, who shared valuable insights into why Key West has become a prime destination for discerning buyers seeking a luxurious lifestyle.

A Unique Neighborhood

According to Langley, “The Florida Keys is like a neighborhood by itself.” During the pandemic, the region gained a positive reputation. “People feel a sense of comfort and safety here,” he added, highlighting how the Keys provided a retreat during uncertain times.

While all areas of the Keys are considered upscale, specific islands and neighborhoods stand out for their high-end appeal. Langley pointed to “high-end parts of Islamorada and very luxurious areas in Key West, such as Sunset Key, a private island just across the harbor from Key West.” This particular community has seen a surge in luxury sales, attracting those looking for a slice of paradise. “Our tropical climate and beautiful scenery contributed to our popularity, with amazing water, trees, and landscaping throughout the area,” he noted.

A Diverse Buyer Pool

Langley and his team started tracking buyer origins during the pandemic, leading to some surprising findings. “We found that 50% of our buyers in the Keys were already Floridians,” he revealed. Many of these buyers were drawn to the lifestyle and climate that Key West offers. The appeal of living in a place with no state income tax and the unique sense of community contributed to this trend. “The advantages of being a Key West resident far outweighed everything else, which is why people wanted to come here,” he shared. This connection to the local culture has been a significant factor in the desirability of Key West as a luxury destination.

Architectural Heritage 

Key West is renowned for its historic architecture, reflecting a rich cultural heritage. “We’ve done an incredible job preserving the quintessential Key West architecture from the mid-1800s,” Langley emphasized. The charm of the area is evident in the colorful homes and the unique architectural styles that define the streetscape.

Due to strict growth ordinances, new developments have to seamlessly blend with the existing historic charm. The influence of Joan Knight, a pivotal figure in preserving Key West’s historic charm, cannot be overstated. Joan, the wife of Knight & Gardner Realty founder Edward Knight, was instrumental in establishing the Historical Architectural Review Commission (HARC). Langley shared how Joan observed that many historically significant properties were being torn down to make way for modern mansions. This concern led her to gather a group of friends and establish the Old Island Restoration Foundation, which still exists today to protect the unique cultural architecture of Old Town, Key West.

As he explained, “Any new construction had to look like it had been there forever. It needed to fit into the neighborhood.” Thanks to Joan’s efforts and the work of HARC, Key West’s rich architectural history remains a defining feature, attracting buyers who value its unique charm.

Amenities and Sustainability 

Outdoor living is an essential aspect to what draws buyers to the Florida Keys, and luxury properties often reflect this trend. Langley noted that many homeowners invest more in outdoor kitchens than indoor ones, creating spaces surrounded by lush gardens and pools. “The average year-round temperature in Key West is 77°F, contributing to an amazing outdoor atmosphere,” he explained, making outdoor spaces an extension of the home.

Properties often feature large balconies, terraces, and even rooftop spaces that provide panoramic views of the ocean and stunning sunsets. “Many quintessential historic Key West houses have balconies both upstairs and downstairs, providing ample space to enjoy the views,” he shared. The attention to detail in these outdoor spaces is what sets luxury homes apart, with buyers expecting high-quality craftsmanship reminiscent of the 1800s.

As luxury living has evolved, so has the incorporation of emerging technologies and sustainable practices. Langley noted that while there is a growing interest in solar roofs, building codes in many areas require structures to withstand extreme weather conditions such as hurricanes and high winds. These regulations often make it more challenging and costly to install solar roofs, as the panels must meet higher durability standards or may need additional structural support. “Our building codes require that roofs be built to withstand nearly 200-mile-per-hour wind speeds,” he explained. However, he pointed out a growing trend of homeowners utilizing cisterns to collect rainwater for landscaping and other purposes.

“This practice had been popular for years, and it dates back to the 1800s,” he mentioned, emphasizing the importance of sustainability in the region. Many homeowners are now encouraged to install cisterns underground or under their decks, allowing for effective use of natural resources. “By directing their drains and gutters into these cisterns, homeowners can use the collected water for landscaping, filling their pools, or other purposes,” Langley elaborated.

A Bright Future

With a team of experienced agents and a clear vision for growth, Langley is optimistic about the future of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Keys Real Estate and Knight & Gardner Realty. “It is brighter than ever. We truly have a team of the best agents in the Florida Keys,” he exclaimed. This confidence stemmed from the fact that many agents had been with the company for over 40 years, and “we're growing every day.”

He emphasized that the firm is not actively recruiting new agents; instead, agents will come to them and are more drawn to work with them because “their customers want to work with a Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices network agent.” He has seen  incredible growth happening for the company throughout the Florida Keys, stating, “Our vision is clear: we are a team of the best, most educated agents in the Florida Keys, and we demonstrate that every single day.”

As Key West continues to thrive as a luxury destination, the combination of its unique charm, vibrant culture, and natural beauty ensures that it will remain a sought-after location for luxury living for years to come. “We have a bright future ahead, and I couldn’t be more excited about what was to come.” he concluded.

Whether you are looking to invest in a stunning property or simply enjoy the laid-back lifestyle, Key West is the ultimate paradise. For more information about Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Keys Real Estate and Knight & Gardner Realty, visit www.BHHSFloridaKeys.com. Additionally, we invite you to read our Dream Destinations Report for further insights into the Florida Keys and other premier real estate markets.

To learn more about real estate opportunities in the area, contact Will Langley so he can introduce you to the Forever Agent℠  who can serve your needs best: (305) 294-5155; will@keysrealestate.com