Q. What Is Marco Island, Florida Known For?

A. In addition to some of the best sunsets on the planet, Marco Island is also known for its idyllic white sand beaches and spectacular shelling opportunities. Tranquil waters and a relaxed atmosphere unlike anything you’ve ever experienced before greet you upon crossing over the bridge. You’ll also find some of the most impressive golf courses in the country, plus plenty of natural scenery to take in on a daily basis.

Q. Is Marco Island, Florida Crowded?

A. Despite the fact that many people are relocating to Florida, Marco Island remains peaceful and serene for much of the year. With its close proximity to nearby Naples and Fort Myers, there are plenty of places for residents and visitors to explore, allowing the Island to emanate a peaceful presence virtually all year long.

Q. Is Marco Island Good for Families?

A. You’ll find that not only does Marco Island have some of the top-ranking schools in the state, there are also many activities for the whole family to enjoy, including:

• Shelling at Tigertail Beach
• Learning about the Island’s past at the Marco Island Historical Museum
• Boating & kayaking
• Dolphin & eco tours

That is why so many families from all over have decided to put down roots on this beautiful island.

Q. Is Marco Island, Florida Safe?

A. Not only is Marco Island safer than many areas of the country, it also has a lower crime rate than 86% of the communities in Florida. This makes it the ideal location for families, retirees and vacationers because you’ll be able to enjoy the fabulous sights without worry.

Q. What Is There to Do on Marco Island?

A. From the beaches to the easy-to-navigate streets, Marco Island is filled with activities for everyone. Shops and boutiques line the streets, while top-quality restaurants cater to virtually every palate. Museums and other learning opportunities, plus a variety of ways to experience nature can also be found, as well as nightlife, entertainment and so much more.

Q. How Is the Marco Island Housing Market?

A. Homes on Marco Island are absolutely breathtaking, which makes this area a popular spot for many full-time and seasonal residents. The market is competitive; however, with more contractors building more homes in the area, the inventory is improving. This allows more people to settle here in paradise, able to find their ideal homes in a safe and welcoming neighborhood.

Life on Marco Island

Now that we’ve answered some of your questions, are you ready to live the ultimate island lifestyle? Not only is Marco Island incredibly safe, its temperate climate and tranquil setting make it the perfect spot to enjoy life in Southwest Florida. So, if you’re thinking about making Marco Island your home, remember how extraordinary this area is, and it keeps getting better each and every day.

Gulfstream Homes is excited to help you build a home on Marco Island! Call (239) 254-1664 or visit www.gulfstreamhomes.com to get started.

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The post Your Top Questions About Living on Marco Island, Answered first appeared on Gulfstream Homes.

Building a Home on Marco Island: The Benefits

Marco Island is a popular destination, and homes are being snapped up quickly by eager buyers, which may cause you to want to build your own home. This is advantageous, especially since you’re able to design it to meet your exact specifications, down to every last detail; something that you won’t be able to do if you buy an existing home. Other benefits associated with building a new home include:

• Less maintenance
• The latest building materials
• Increased energy efficiency
• Location of your choice

When you choose to build a new home, you’re essentially starting from a blank slate, allowing you to create the home you’ve always wanted on the Island.

Building a Home on Marco Island: The Limitations

Typically, this option costs more money and takes a lot more time than simply moving into an existing structure. It will also take more effort and result in many more decisions made by you when it comes to overall design, features, layout, style and so forth. For many homeowners, these aren’t really limitations, as they’re able to get the house they’ve always wanted.

Buying a Home on Marco Island: The Benefits

Many Marco Island residents like the idea of a move-in ready space. In addition to being able to get settled right away, buying a home is typically less costly. There’s always the potential for renovations in the future, but you don’t necessarily have to tackle those right away. It takes less time and money than building a home from the ground up, which is a big selling factor for many island residents.

Buying a Home on Marco Island: The Limitations

The biggest limitation right now is inventory. You may not be able to find the home you really want, due to low inventory in this extremely popular destination. On a positive note, builders are working around the clock to add more homes to Marco’s inventory, so residents can find the space that works for their needs. One of the other main limitations is having to compromise on some of the features, as it’s almost virtually impossible to find a home that’s exactly how you envisioned it. You may also need to renovate it to meet new building standards, especially if it is an older home.

The Takeaway

Whether you want to work with a reputable builder to build your home from the ground up, or you’d rather move into an existing home, the choice is yours to make. Marco Island is continuing to top the charts as one of the best places to live in Florida. When it comes to your Marco Island home, you’ll be in the midst of all of the island charm, whether you choose to build or buy a home.

Gulfstream Homes is excited to help you build a home on Marco Island! Call (239) 254-1664 or visit www.gulfstreamhomes.com to get started.

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The post Should You Build or Buy a Home on Marco Island? first appeared on Gulfstream Homes.

Keep It Coastal

Homes on Marco are accentuated by the feel of balmy breezes drifting effortlessly throughout the home, which is why many homes are outfitted with many windows to let the light shine brightly inside. Open spaces are key in Marco Island homes, as well as light and bright color palettes throughout, decorated with pops of vibrant color. Coastal design also makes good use of natural elements to add more depth and interest to the space. Consider adding the following coastal pieces into your home:

• Plant life
• Seaside accents (shells, coral, etc)
• Bamboo window treatments
• Linen draperies
• Sea glass décor

Coastal homes on Marco exhibit beachy, yet refined vibes, making them the perfect blend of coastal and contemporary paradise.

Go Bold with Patterns

Although many modern homes on the Island continue to stick to neutral tones throughout the major areas of the home, bold patterns are being seen more often to add more interest into the space. Everything from patterned wallpaper to accent rugs, artwork to backsplashes can be found accentuating Marco Island homes, giving them a beachy and eclectic feel.

Incorporate Rounded Furniture & Fixtures

Furniture is straying away from the boxy feel it showcased a few years ago, instead being replaced by more rounded pieces. Sofas, bathroom vanities, reading chairs, desks and many more elements are getting a makeover to appeal to what homeowners are desiring in their spaces.

Showcase a Hotel-Like Atmosphere

We’re already living in one of the most stunning places in the country, so why not design your home like you’re on vacation every day? More Marco Island residents are incorporating hotel-like trends in their home, including spa bathrooms, white linens and décor and a more minimalistic ideology to transform them into a true vacation space.

Marco Island Design

There’s no denying that Marco Island has a certain flair about it that you won’t find elsewhere. When you choose to take up residence here, you won’t be able to resist making your home into a tropical oasis in paradise. From indoor/outdoor spaces to clean, crisp design choices, your Marco Island home will be radiating with cozy, coastal vibes before you know it. It’s important to make your home work for you, and while many of these trends are highly adopted by islanders, it’s important to make the right choice for you. Keep in mind that by choosing a more timeless route with the overall design and leaving the trendy elements to aspects that can be easily changed is always highly recommended, so that you can enjoy your island home to the fullest for years.

Gulfstream Homes is excited to help you build your home on Marco Island! Call (239) 254-1664 or visit www.gulfstreamhomes.com to get started.

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The post Top Marco Island Interior Design Trends first appeared on Gulfstream Homes.

Unveiling its model home last year, the builder reported unprecedented demand, with record sales in the Marco Island market. Adjusting its model home hours to by appointment only for several months, the builder is preparing for a busy season, helping more and more part-time and full-time residents build their ideal homes in paradise. Emanating sheer beauty, Gulfstream Homes’ Marco Island model showcases a bright open floorplan with large windows illuminating the space, as well as contemporary design throughout, accentuated with luxury furnishings and décor. This three-bedroom, three-bathroom home boasts 3,041 sq. ft. of living space, and perfectly encapsulates the essence of the Gulfstream Homes team and its capabilities.

Building homes to exceed expectations since 1998, Gulfstream Homes (www.gulfstreamhomes.com) has recently entered into the Marco Island area and has been met with high demand for its elegant homes. The team is not only well-versed in building on the Island and across Southwest Florida, they are also very prevalent in the community, participating in area events, charities and more.

Michael Peel, Co-Founder of Gulfstream Homes, speaks about the approaching season and what the team is expecting.

“The phones are ringing, car carriers are coming in, season is almost here and we’re looking forward to opening back up to the public on December 1^st. We are gearing up for an even busier season this year, and we can’t wait to help more clients create their perfect homes on the Island,” he says.

About Gulfstream Homes

Since 1998, Gulfstream Homes has been utilizing top level technology, project management tools, design and innovation to create the very best homes in Southwest Florida. With attention to detail and  long-term partnerships with the construction industry’s best providers, Gulfstream Homes ensures exceptional and timely workmanship. From On Your Lot building to remodels, Gulfstream Homes is a top choice for building and design in Southwest Florida.

For more information about Gulfstream Homes, please call (239) 259-8070, email info@arcs-gh.com or visit www.gulfstreamhomes.com.

The post Marco Island Builder, Gulfstream Homes, Ramps Up for Season, Re-Opening Its Model Home on December 1st first appeared on Gulfstream Homes.

The golf tournament is held every year, and is a popular Marco Island community event. Many community members and businesses show their support for the Marco Island Charter Middle School, joining one another on the course for a good cause. The Marco Island Charter Middle School is one of the top schools on the Island and beyond, performing above average in testing and student progress in the state of Florida. Students possess strong academic skills, which propel the charter school ahead of many others when it comes to academic growth. With over 377 students, this public charter school continues to benefit from the support that it receives from area donors, much like those who participated in this year’s summertime golf event.

Gulfstream Homes (www.gulfstreamhomes.com), a well-known Southwest Florida home builder, recently completed its model home on Marco Island, located at 201 S. Heathwood Drive, and has been a pillar in the local community throughout the years. The team has supported various programs, including Flags for Heroes, the Marco Island Yacht Club Youth Sailing Program, as well as the Marco Island Area Association of Realtors’ Scavenger Hunt, Christmas Island Style’s Annual Holiday Parade and more. Focusing on cutting-edge building techniques, modern home design and careful attention to detail, the Gulfstream Homes team has made quite an impact on Marco Island and beyond.

Michael Peel, Co-Founder of Gulfstream Homes, speaks about the team’s involvement in this, and many other, Marco Island events.

“For our team, Marco Island is home, and we want to show our support for our community any way we can. Through sponsorships, involvement in local organizations and overall support, we get to not only help our neighbors, but also get to know them as well. We enjoy this area and we try to give back as often as possible,” he explains.

About Gulfstream Homes

Since 1998, Gulfstream Homes has been utilizing top level technology, project management tools, design and innovation to create the very best homes in Southwest Florida. With attention to detail and long-term partnerships with the construction industry’s best providers, Gulfstream Homes ensures exceptional and timely workmanship. From On Your Lot building to remodels, Gulfstream Homes is a top choice for building and design in Southwest Florida.

For more information about Gulfstream Homes, please call (239) 259-8070, email info@arcs-gh.com or visit www.gulfstreamhomes.com.

The post Gulfstream Homes Sponsors Rotary Club of Marco Island’s Annual Golf Tournament first appeared on Gulfstream Homes.

Bruntjen, who leads the Gulfstream Homes Marco Island Sales team, joins the Rotary Club of Marco Island as a way to give back to the Marco Island community. With over 15 years of local construction experience, Bruntjen is a licensed general contractor, dedicated to providing clients with unparalleled customer service. Not only does she help clients find the perfect homes in paradise, she is also an active community member. When she is not working, this Naples-native enjoys spending time with her husband and two children.

Gulfstream Homes (www.gulfstreamhomes.com) is proud to support many Marco Island organizations, including the Marco Island Historical Society and Museum, Flags for Heroes and others. Gulfstream Homes chose to become involved with the Rotary Club of Marco Island, due to the fantastic impact they make on the community. The Rotary Club of Marco Island supports various missions through programs like Meals of Hope, Neighbors Helping Neighbors, the Marco Island Seafood & Music Festival and more. With an ever-growing presence on the Island, Gulfstream Homes continues to further its mission to support the community, assist clients with building their ideal homes and upholding a reputation of integrity.

Michael Peel, Co-Founder of Gulfstream Homes, speaks about Bruntjen’s induction into the Club and what it means to be a part of this organization’s mission.

“Sam [Bruntjen] has always gone above and beyond for her fellow team members. We’re honored to be a part of the Rotary Club here on Marco Island, and with all of the support of the community, it’s no surprise that more and more Floridians are seeking to make this area their home,” he says.

Representatives of the Rotary Club of Marco Island have also expressed their delight at having Bruntjen on board.

“Samantha [Bruntjen] is a hard-working, dynamic professional with a giving heart. We are privileged to welcome her to our Rotary family,” they say.

About Gulfstream Homes

Since 1998, Gulfstream Homes has been utilizing top level technology, project management tools, design and innovation to create the very best homes in Southwest Florida. With attention to detail and long-term partnerships with the construction industry’s best providers, Gulfstream Homes ensures exceptional and timely workmanship. From On Your Lot building to remodels, Gulfstream Homes is a top choice for building and design in Southwest Florida.

For more information about Gulfstream Homes, please call (239) 259-8070, email info@arcs-gh.com or visit www.gulfstreamhomes.com.

The post Gulfstream Homes Team Member Inducted Into Rotary Club of Marco Island first appeared on Gulfstream Homes.

The Children and Youth Sailing program, which partners with the Marco Island Yacht Club, provides sailing instruction to children of all ages. Offering beginner, intermediate and advanced lessons, the goal of the program is to help children learn proper sailing techniques, as well as safety in this popular pastime. There are a variety of programs that run through the duration of the summer, aiming to provide children and youths with the best possible knowledge and instruction to help them perfect their skills, create bonds with fellow participants and above all else, have fun. Donations to the sailing program will allow the club to purchase necessary materials for the program, in addition to new sailboats for the participants.

Gulfstream Homes (www.gulfstreamhomes.com) has recently unveiled its Marco Island model home, which is located at 201 S. Heathwood Drive. With a reputation in the area of building exquisite homes to meet the needs of Marco Island buyers, the Gulfstream Homes team prides itself on quality, service and upholding its mission to its clients. The team is very involved in the Marco Island community and frequently participates in area events.

Michael Peel, Co-Founder of Gulfstream Homes, speaks about assisting the sailing club with their needs to continue to provide for their participants.

“This organization does such good work. Not only does the program help the children perfect their sailing skills, but it does so much more. Increased confidence, learning a skill and making lasting friendships are what it is all about, and if we can help the program continue to do this for these kids, then we’re happy to do so,” he explains.

About Gulfstream Homes

Since 1998, Gulfstream Homes has been utilizing top level technology, project management tools, design and innovation to create the very best homes in Southwest Florida. With attention to detail and long-term partnerships with the construction industry’s best providers, Gulfstream Homes ensures exceptional and timely workmanship. From On Your Lot building to remodels, Gulfstream Homes is a top choice for building and design in Southwest Florida.

For more information about Gulfstream Homes, please call (239) 259-8070, email info@arcs-gh.com or visit www.gulfstreamhomes.com.

The post Marco Island Home Builder, Gulfstream Homes, Donates to Local Children and Youth Sailing Club first appeared on Gulfstream Homes.

1. Dominated by the Calusa Tribe

The Marco Island that we know and love today is a far cry from what it used to be, and how it began. The Calusa tribe reigned over the land thousands of years ago, known for their ferocity and ability to survive in the island’s harsh climate. With plenty of food from the land and the sea, the tribe did well in the area, and continued to thrive for years.

2. Largest of the Ten Thousand Islands

Located just off the coast of Southwest Florida lies a chain of islands, known as the Ten Thousand Islands, which are pretty much uninhabited, except for one. Marco Island, the largest of the Ten Thousand Islands is the only populated part of this wonder of nature. You can visit the others on various boat tours, where you’re able to see the abundant plant life and other native creatures that call these islands home.

3. Best Shelling in the Area

Marco Island is known for a lot of things, and shelling is one of them! With so many ties to its rustic past, the Island is a hot spot for tourists and visitors alike who want to get their hands on some one-of-a-kind shells. By far the best place to shell on Marco Island is Tigertail Beach, where you’ll find spectacular shells like:

• Atlantic Calico Scallop

• Sunray Venus

• Atlantic Fig Snail

• Lettered Olive

If you want to carry a piece of the Island with you, even when you’re not there, pencil some shelling into your schedule.

4. Many Opportunities to Learn

The Island also caters to those thirsty for knowledge with a wide array of museums and landmarks, open to the public. Take a trip over to the Marco Island Historical Museum to learn more about the Island’s rich history, or enjoy a family outing to the various nature preserves found on and around the Island to view the local wildlife.

5. Home of the Cape Romano Domes

You may have noticed the spaceship-like domes dotting the Island’s coast, and you’d be mistaken if you thought they were placed there by aliens. No, these domes served as a vacation destination for a prominent oilman many years ago, and the beach has since eroded away from disuse. If you want a fun day out on the seas, take a trip by the famous Cape Romano domes.

As you can see, Marco Island is teeming with adventure and history. Whether you’re new to the area or you’ve lived here all your life, there’s always something to learn about the Island. So, get out and explore and when you’re ready to build or buy your perfect Marco Island home, let Gulfstream Homes help. Call (239) 259-8070 or visit www.gulfstreamhomes.com to get started.

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The post 5 Fun Facts About Marco Island first appeared on Gulfstream Homes.

The MIAAOR hosts multiple scavenger hunts throughout the year as a way to bring the community together. Participants are encouraged to visit stops throughout the Island, collect signatures, post a selfie and check-in via Facebook to have a chance to win prizes. Many Marco Island staples will be on the list, as well as a variety of businesses that will be present in the MIAAOR conference room, like Gulfstream Homes, Discovery Village of Naples, First Florida Integrity Bank and many more. Not only do these events give participants a much-needed break during the day, they also help locals and visitors get to know the Marco Island area and all of the wonderful businesses that reside on the Island.

Gulfstream Homes (www.gulfstreamhomes.com) has been a popular home builder in the Southwest Florida area for decades, recently completing its first model home on the Island, located at 201 S. Heathwood Drive. Specializing in On Your Lot homes and custom builds, as well as renovations, the team at Gulfstream Homes possesses an exceptional knowledge of what building on Marco Island entails. Through the latest technology and building innovation, Gulfstream Homes designs spaces that work perfectly with the spectacular backdrop of Marco Island.

Michael Peel, Co-Founder of Gulfstream Homes, speaks about being a part of this fun event and growing their presence on the Island.

“Marco Island is a bustling hub of activity and as time goes on, more and more residents and visitors are flocking to the Island. Not only are we looking forward to continuing to get our name out in this busy market, we’re excited to be a part of the unique events that happen in this special place,” he says.

To learn more, visit the Marco Island Area Association of REALTORS’ Facebook page for updates and news about the upcoming hunt.

About Gulfstream Homes

Since 1998, Gulfstream Homes has been utilizing top level technology, project management tools, design and innovation to create the very best homes in Southwest Florida. With attention to detail and long-term partnerships with the construction industry’s best providers, Gulfstream Homes ensures exceptional and timely workmanship. From On Your Lot building to remodels, Gulfstream Homes is a top choice for building and design in Southwest Florida.

For more information about Gulfstream Homes, please call (239) 254-1664, email info@arcs-gh.com or visit www.gulfstreamhomes.com.

The post Marco Island Home Builder, Gulfstream Homes, to Participate in the Marco Island Area Association of REALTORS Scavenger Hunt first appeared on Gulfstream Homes.

1. Top-Level Schools

Marco Island is home to a number of top-level schools, some of the highest ranking schools in all of Florida. With an average math proficiency score of 80%, as opposed to the statewide average of 58% and a reading proficiency score of 76%, as opposed to the statewide average of 55%, Marco Island’s school system is in the top 5% of schools in Florida. These top ranked schools include:

• Tommie Barfield Elementary School

• Marco Island Charter Middle School

• Marco Island Academy

With an average overall ranking of 10/10, Marco Island schools prove that they’re among the best of the best across the state of Florida. So, if you’re wondering whether or not your children will be able to take advantage of a stellar education, the proof is in the numbers.

2. Beautiful Beaches

Boredom won’t be an issue when your family lives on the Island! With some of the country’s most beautiful beaches, spending time in the sand and sun is as easy as ever, and with sensational diving and other aquatic experiences, your kids will stay entertained each and every time you venture to Marco Island’s pristine white sand beaches. Take a trip to Keewaydin Island for a fun family outing or Tigertail Beach for unbeatable shelling.

3. The Best Eats

Don’t feel like cooking dinner? No worries when you live on the Island! Gather the family and enjoy a number of fine dining establishments on Marco, designed with families in mind. Our favorites include:

• Mango’s Dockside Bistro

• Snook Inn

• CJ’s on the Bay

The list goes on and on, depending on what everyone is in the mood for at any given moment. When you’re living on island time, there’s always somewhere delightful to eat with the family.

4. Culture & Education

From the Marco Island Center for the Arts to various nature centers and historical landmarks, Marco Island is alight with things to do…and learn! Take the kids for an educational day trip to one of the many parks or visit Briggs Nature Center for an up close and personal look at some of the wildlife that calls Marco Island home.

5. Homes Built for Families

Whether you’re interested in a single-family home or a condo, Marco Island has what you’re looking for to appeal to your new lifestyle. And when it comes to your family’s needs, it’s best to partner with a builder who knows the area well. That way, you’ll be able to get the home you’ve always wanted with the features you desire to maximize your time on the Island. If you didn’t think Marco Island was for families, one trip to the Island will change your mind.

Gulfstream Homes is excited to help you build or buy the perfect home on Marco Island! Call (239) 259-8070 or visit www.gulfstreamhomes.com to get started.

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The post 5 Reasons Marco Island is Perfect for Families first appeared on Gulfstream Homes.