🏝 Thinking of Moving to Key Largo? Here’s What Every New Buyer Should Know
Welcome to paradise! If you’re dreaming of trading mainland stress for ocean breezes, Key Largo might be calling your name. Whether you’re looking for a vacation home, a full-time escape, or an investment in Florida Keys real estate, there are a few things to know before making your move.
Here’s your essential buyer’s guide to life in Key Largo—written with locals, lifestyle, and waterfront living in mind.
🐢 1. Island Life Is a Lifestyle Shift
Island time is real—and it’s wonderful. In Key Largo, the pace is slower, people are friendlier, and the sunset is your new happy hour. Don’t expect big-city rush here. Instead, get ready for laid-back living, community charm, and everyday flip-flops.
🌦 2. The Weather is (Mostly) Perfect
Key Largo offers warm, tropical weather almost year-round. Winters are mild, summers are hot and humid, and afternoon rain showers often roll through in the summer. Be aware: Hurricane season runs June–November, so storm readiness is essential.
🎣 3. Love to Fish? You’re in the Right Place
Key Largo is a fishing and boating paradise. Offshore, backcountry, and reef fishing are all minutes away. Many homes include canal frontage, boat lifts, or quick access to open water. Whether you're chasing tarpon or mahi, this island is made for anglers.
🏠 4. Know the Real Estate Realities
- Flood Zones: Most areas require flood insurance. Ask for an elevation certificate.
- Building Codes: Monroe County has strict hurricane-resilient construction rules.
- Canal Access: Not all canals are equal—check depth, bridge clearance, and tides.
👉 Work with a local realtor who knows the water.
🛒 5. Daily Life in Key Largo
You'll find what you need—groceries, restaurants, medical clinics, schools—but not big-box shopping or chain malls. For major errands, expect to head to Homestead or Miami.
🚘 6. You’ve Got One Road In and Out
U.S. 1 is the only road to and from the Keys. It’s scenic—but also prone to weekend traffic. If you’re commuting or traveling frequently, plan around that. The upside? It’s beautiful every mile.
👩👩👧👦 7. Small-Town Feel, Big Community Heart
People know your name here. Community events, environmental conservation, and school sports matter. It’s easy to meet your neighbors, support local businesses, and feel at home.
🌪 8. Hurricane Preparedness is Key
Make sure the home you buy is storm-ready with impact windows, shutters, elevation, and/or a generator. Ask about insurance history and always have a plan.
📞 Ready to Catch Closings in Key Largo?
Hi, I’m Heather Born, your Upper Keys real estate specialist with RESF Island Properties. I help buyers find homes that fit their lifestyle and waterfront dreams—with personal service and deep local knowledge.
- ✅ Want to talk about available homes, dockage needs, or neighborhood fit?
- ✅ Curious about what your money can get in Key Largo?
👉 Visit My Website
📧 upperkeysrealestate@gmail.com
📞 (305) 394-0716
Let’s turn your Keys dream into reality!
