Key Colony Beach

Have you been thinking about making the move to Key Colony Beach, Florida? If so, we’ve put together a list of pros and cons of living in Key Colony Beach. Relocating to a new place can be a massive decision, we hope this assessment will make your transition a little smoother.

The pros and cons of Key Colony Beach may differ depending on whether you plan on moving there full-time or purchasing an investment property. It all boils down to which side of the spectrum you’re on.

Community

Key Colony Beach, whether you’re a resident or an investor, boasts a vibrant sense of community that is sure to impress. The island offers a plethora of activities and clubs for both locals and tourists to participate in. If you’re a permanent resident, you’ll quickly become acquainted with everyone. Key Colony Beach is a tight-knit community, but one disadvantage is that with such a small population, everyone tends to know each other’s business.

Vacation Rentals

The subject of vacation rentals has been a topic of heated discussion in Key Colony Beach in recent years. Vacation rentals have become increasingly popular and have quickly taken over the island. In fact, there are now more vacation rentals available than full-time residences, which means that if you are a permanent resident, it’s highly likely that you’ll be living next to a vacation rental property.  Some vacation rentals can be get noisy and rowdy, leading to disturbances in the neighborhood. This can be particularly challenging for permanent residents who value a quiet and peaceful living environment.

For investment property owners, Key Colony Beach offers a great opportunity to generate extra income by renting out their property when they’re not using it. The fact that Key Colony Beach allows for weekly rentals makes it a highly desirable location for investors looking to generate rental income.

The ability to rent out a property on a weekly basis also offers investors greater control over their income, as they can adjust rental rates based on demand and seasonality. This allows them to optimize their rental income while still ensuring that their property is well-maintained and cared for.

Healthcare

Whether you’re an investor or a full-time resident in Key Colony Beach, it’s important to know that there is no healthcare facility on the island. However, Fishermen’s Hospital is conveniently located just a few miles away in the City of Marathon, and it provides some limited medical services to the community.

While Fishermen’s Hospital provides a valuable service to the community, there are some limitations to the care available there. For more complex medical issues or specialized treatments, patients may need to travel to Miami or another larger city.

For more information on Fishermen’s Hospital, please visit their website at https://fishermenshospital.org/.

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No State Income Tax

Florida is one of only a handful of states in the United States that does not have a state income tax. This is a significant advantage for residents of Florida, particularly those who are retired or living on a fixed income. Without a state income tax, individuals in Florida are able to keep more of their earnings, providing an important financial benefit.

For retirees, the lack of a state income tax can be particularly beneficial. Since Social Security income and most retirement income are not taxed by the state of Florida, retirees can stretch their savings further and enjoy a higher quality of life in retirement. This makes Florida an attractive destination for retirees from other states, particularly those with higher state income tax rates.

Jobs

Due to its small size and remote location, the job market in Key Colony Beach is limited. Most of the available jobs are in the hospitality and service industries, catering to the needs of the island’s visitors. While these jobs can provide a steady source of income for those looking to work, they may not offer the same career growth and advancement opportunities as larger metropolitan areas.

This lack of job opportunities is one reason why many people who move to Key Colony Beach are retirees. Since they are no longer dependent on a regular income from employment, they are free to enjoy the island’s many recreational opportunities and amenities without the constraints of work.

Schools

While there are no schools located on the island of Key Colony Beach, families with school-aged children need not worry. The nearby city of Marathon, just a short distance away, offers elementary, middle, and high schools to serve the educational needs of the community.

The small child population on the islands ensures that schools in the area maintain a low teacher to student ratio. This allows for a more personalized and engaging educational experience for students, which can be particularly beneficial for those who may need extra support or attention.

Key Colony Beach Conclusion

Key Colony Beach offers a unique lifestyle for those seeking a close-knit community and a relaxing atmosphere. While the island does have some drawbacks, such as limited healthcare facilities and higher living costs, its benefits, including a low crime rate and a lack of state income tax, make it an attractive destination for many.

The nearby city of Marathon provides access to essential services such as schools and healthcare, while the abundance of vacation rentals provides investment opportunities for property owners.

Overall, Key Colony Beach is a charming and desirable location for those seeking a peaceful and welcoming community in the Florida Keys.

Local Resources:

City of Key Colony Beach 

Key Colony Beach

Located in the beautiful Florida Keys, Key Colony Beach is a charming and lively city that locals and regulars often refer to as “KCB”. It offers a wide range of activities to suit every taste and needs. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning for another trip, we’ve compiled a list of our top 5 must-do activities in Key Colony Beach to make the most of your stay.

Morning Walks/ biking

One of the unique features of Key Colony Beach is that you can easily explore the island on foot or by bike. We highly recommend taking a leisurely walk or bike ride along the path and down Sadowski Causeway, especially during the tranquil morning hours. Not only is it a great way to stay active, but you’ll also have the chance to connect with fellow tourists and residents. Starting your day with a stroll or bike ride is an excellent way to enjoy the natural beauty of Key Colony Beach while also getting some exercise.

Sunsets Park

For a spectacular sunset experience accompanied by delightful music and great company, make sure to visit Sunset Park in the evening. This popular spot attracts both locals and tourists who gather to watch the breathtaking sunset. During high season, you’ll even have the chance to enjoy concerts at the park just before sunset. Even if there aren’t any performances scheduled, you’ll still hear the enchanting sunset song being sung by others. It’s an unforgettable experience that you won’t want to miss. Just be sure to bring your own chair if you plan on staying for a while, as it can get quite crowded.

Chow Down

Get ready to indulge in some mouth-watering local cuisine when you visit Key Colony Beach! With an array of fantastic restaurants on and around the island, you’re in for a real treat.

So, come hungry and be sure to check out some of these must-try dining spots while you’re here:

1. Sparky’s Landing – a waterfront restaurant and bar serving fresh seafood, sandwiches, and cocktails.
   
2. Havana Jacks – a relaxed restaurant featuring seafood, steak, and live music.
   
3. Island Fish Company – a casual seafood restaurant and tiki bar with stunning ocean views.
   
4. Key Colony Inn – a classic American restaurant serving steak, seafood, and pasta.
   

Key Colony Beach Golf

The Key Colony Beach Par-3 Golf Course is a popular public golf course in Key Colony Beach, Florida. It first opened its doors to golfers in 1968 and has since been a beloved destination for both locals and tourists alike.

One of the unique features of this golf course is that it consists of just nine holes. Despite its small size, the Key Colony Beach Par-3 Golf Course offers a challenging experience, as it measures 962 yards from the longest tees. This public golf course is the perfect place to enjoy a round of golf, whether you’re a seasoned player or just looking to have some fun.

There is also a driving range, pro shop, and clubhouse on-site.

Boating and Fishing

Fishing and boating are two of the most popular activities in Key Colony Beach, Florida.

Key Colony Beach’s ideal location near the Vaca Cut allows for easy access to both the ocean and bay waters, making it a prime spot for boating. There are a variety of local boat rental companies, so you can easily rent a boat and head out for a day on the water.

Whether you’re boating or fishing in Key Colony Beach, it’s important to be familiar with local regulations and obtain the necessary licenses before heading out. Hiring a local guide or charter company can also be helpful in navigating the waters and increasing your chances of success.

Key Colony Beach

Key Colony Beach is a charming community located in the Florida Keys. It is a popular destination for travelers looking to experience the sunshine and fantastic boating. Visitors to Key Colony Beach often wonder if the island is man-made? In this blog post, we will explore the history of Key Colony Beach and determine whether or not the city is man-made.

Construction of Key Colony Beach

Key Colony Beach was established in 1957 by a group of developers who wanted to create a unique vacation spot for visitors to the Florida Keys. Phil Sadowski took on the challenge of building the island city. Phil and his crew transformed what was know as Shelter Key, into the City of Key Colony Beach. Shelter Key was originally only 97 acres of low lying land that often flooded during high tides.

To achieve his vision, Sadowski used two dredges that worked tirelessly around the clock to pump vast amounts of sand to expand the island. Over time, the island grew, and Sadowski took it a step further by purchasing the ocean bottom. He dredged and pumped the sand from the bottom of the ocean to serve as the final fill for most of the island.

Once the fill was stable, the dredges began carving canals into the island, using the material from the canals to provide additional fill. This process raised the island’s elevation above sea level, preventing flooding during high tides. This means that Key Colony Beach is man-made.

In conclusion, while the beach at Key Colony Beach may have been created through man-made processes, the developers of the town were committed to maintaining the natural beauty of the surrounding area. Visitors to Key Colony Beach can enjoy the unique vacation spot created by the developers while still appreciating the natural environment of the Florida Keys.

Due to the fact that Key Colony Beach was man-made, buyers need to know about the soils that the homes have been built on! If you are thinking about buying a home in Key Colony Beach, you are going to want to know this!

Local Resources:

City of Key Colony Beach 

Key Colony Beach 

Key Colony Beach Flood Maps are changing.  If you own a property in Key Colony Beach or are looking to purchase in the area, it is extremely important that you understand the current and Draft Flood Plain.

For the past few years Fema has been working on updating the Flood Maps.  This will effect all of Key Colony Beach.  The New maps change Flood Zones and Elevations.

Flood Zones – VE AE and NEW ZONE Coastal AE

There are two Flood Zones, AE and VE.

VE Zones  – are more expensive to insure due to their proximity to open water and higher likelihood of wave action.

AE Zones – are more inland and are cheaper to insure.

NEW Coastal Zone AE – The new Flood Maps introduce a Coastal A-Zone, which is an AE Zone with higher wave action. 

Since the Coastal A-Zones, are more likely to experience wave action, FEMA is recommending that these areas be built to VE.

Flood Zone in Key Colony Beach

Current Flood Zones

Draft Map Flood Zone Changes

Key Colony Beach 

The Pink areas change from AE to VE 

The Green area change to VE to AE

It’s important to note that if your Flood Zone changes from an AE to a VE, the cost of insurance will increase.

Elevation Changes

All areas of Key Colony Beach will experience a change in elevation due to the new mapping standard.

The new maps use FEMA’s NAVD88 mapping standard, which differs from the previous standard by approximately one and a half feet.

If your elevation remains the “same” – there is still a change due to the new mapping standard.

Many homes in Key Colony Beach that were previously just above flood level will now be below flood level.  Once the homes are below flood you will need to understand the 50 percent rule.

Flood Insurance is Assumable

Assumable flood insurance means that the buyer of a property has the option to take over the existing flood insurance policy held by the seller. This is a great advantage for the buyer as they don’t have to go through the process of purchasing a new policy, which can be time-consuming and costly. Instead, they can simply assume the existing policy, keep it in place, and continue to pay the premiums.

On the other hand, wind and homeowners insurance policies cannot be assumed. This means that if a property is sold, the buyer must purchase a new wind or homeowners insurance policy.

It’s recommended to get flood insurance before the new flood maps are put into effect. While some homeowners prefer to self-insure, it’s important to note that when it’s time to sell, most buyers will require a mortgage and flood insurance.  Obtaining flood insurance ahead of the new maps’ implementation can potentially expand your pool of potential buyers by reducing the cost of insurance.

Local Resources:

City of Key Colony Beach

Monroe County Draft FEMA Maps

Key Colony Beach

If you are thinking about the purchasing of a condo in Key Colony beach there are several factors that your should consider before making a final decision.  These include, insurance, pools, dockage, parking, rentals, pets, washer and dryer and financials/building inspections.

Insurance 

When contemplating the purchase of a condo, it is vital to ascertain whether insurance is included in the Homeowners Association Fee. This is particularly significant because several condos in Key Colony Beach do not include insurance in the Hoa Fee, which means you may be required to pay additional amounts for insurance.

Pools 

The majority of condos in Key Colony Beach feature pools. While some of these pools are heated, others are not. Although Florida is generally warm, there may be times when a heated pool can be needed during the cooler months.

Dockage

There is only one condo complex in Key Colony Beach which also includes dockage.  This condo complex is Sea Pointe.  All other condos in Key Colony Beach have beach access and a fishing pier.

Parking 

Parking at condos in Key Colony Beach is usually not an issue.  Most condo complexes in the area have more than enough parking for residents and guest.  If you require parking or storage for a trailer, you may need to seek an alternative solution, as none of the condo complexes have trailer storage.

Rentals

Minimum rental requirements for condo vary throughout the city.  Some condos are weekly while others or 30 days.

Pets

Pets and condos do not always mesh well, especially if you own a larger animal. In Key Colony Beach the majority of condos do not permit pets or if they do allow pets, the condo usually imposes size limitations of around 25 lbs. There are occasional exceptions where a condo permits one pet with no weight restrictions.

Washer and Dryer

Having a washer and dryer in the unit is not a universal feature of condos in Key Colony Beach.  Some condos have them inside their units, while other must use a community washer and dryer room.

Financials/ Inspections

Different condo associations have varying levels of quality. As a part of our client service, we furnish our clients with the condo’s financial statements, budget, and meeting minutes when they buy a condo. It’s critical to comprehend the condo’s financial position before making a purchase, such as any pending assessments, budget projections, and reserve levels. Several condos are presently governed by new legislation that necessitates added safety inspections and reserve obligations. It’s crucial to inquire about these requirements to guarantee that the condo complies with them.

Check New Condo Rules and Regs 

Local Resources:

City of Key Colony Beach 

Key Colony Beach

If you’re thinking about purchasing a property in Key Colony Beach, it’s important to be aware of the construction of older buildings in the area.

Key Colony Beach offers several ground-level half duplexes for purchase. However it is worth noting that many of these duplexes were constructed in the 1960s and 1970s when building codes were quite different from what they are today.

When considering these older buildings, it’s essential to do your due diligence and understand the potential implications of their construction.

History of Key Colony Beach

The transformation of Shelter Key, one of the Fat Deer Keys, into the City of Key Colony Beach was a remarkable feat of engineering. Originally spanning across 97 acres of low-lying land with a sandy beach on the ocean side, the island was prone to flooding during high tides. However, in the early 1950s, Phil Sadowski took on the ambitious task of building an island city.

Using a pair of dredges that worked tirelessly around the clock, Sadowski pumped vast amounts of sand to expand. Over time, the island grew. Sadowski even went a step further by purchasing the ocean bottom. This sand was dredged and pumped to serve as the final fill for most of the island.

Once the fill was solid, the dredges began cutting canals into the island, using the material from the canals as additional fill. This process raised the island to an elevation above sea level.

Construction

In the 1960s and 1970s, when most of the half duplexes in Key Colony Beach were built, contractors would use pin piles around the perimeter of the homes but the concrete slab in the middle were pour directly on the ground. As Key Colony Beach was built on fill, it has been observed over time that these slabs are prone to settlement issues. As the fill settles over time, it can cause the concrete slabs to sink or shift, resulting in structure issues with the flooring.

It’s important to be aware of this aspect when considering older properties in Key Colony Beach and to seek expert advice from qualified inspectors or contractors to assess the condition of the concrete slabs and any potential impact on the property’s stability. Appropriate measures may need to be taken, such as foundation repairs or reinforcement, to ensure the safety and longevity of the property.

Property Permits

To ensure a smooth property purchase in Key Colony Beach, it is advisable to have your real estate agent go the extra mile by not only checking for open or expired permits, but also obtaining records of them. This way, you can gain access to information about past repairs made by the seller, including foundation repairs for settlement issues, which may not have been apparent otherwise. Obtaining permit records can be a valuable step in the property purchasing process.

Local Resources :

City of Key Colony Beach

Search Homes for Sale Key Colony Beach

Key Colony Beach Ultimate Real Estate Guide 

Are you dreaming of owning a piece of paradise in the Florida Keys? Look no further than Key Colony Beach, a charming island located in the heart of the Florida Keys. Key Colony Beach has become a popular destination for vacation rentals and real estate investments. In this blog post, we’ll provide you with an ultimate guide to Key Colony Beach real estate, including an overview of the real estate market, information on vacation rentals and investment properties.  

Key Colony Beach offers a wide range of real estate choices, catering to diverse preferences. From spacious single-family homes to versatile full duplexes, half duplexes, townhomes, and modern condos, there’s something for everyone.

Single Family Homes Keys Colony Beach

If you’re in search of a single-family home in Key Colony Beach, you’ll want to focus your search between 11th Street and 15th Circle. Right in the heart of 11th Street is where you’ll find the transition from half duplexes to single-family homes as per zoning regulations. The single-family homes in Key Colony Beach showcase a diverse range of architectural styles, ranging from classic Florida designs to contemporary modern constructions. One notable advantage of these homes is that they typically come with larger lots, which often means more waterfront access.

Full Duplexes in Key Colony Beach

In Key Colony Beach, there are only a handful of full duplexes that remain intact. In the past, many owners have chosen to divide and sell off each side separately. As a result, finding a full duplex with a single owner has become a rarity and a challenging task.

Half Duplexes in Key Colony Beach

Key Colony Beach features a number of half duplexes, most of which are single-story structures made of concrete and constructed in the 1960s. It’s common to find multiple entry doors in these half duplexes, providing separate access to different sections of the building. In some cases, you may need to pass through one bedroom to reach another, as there may not be a traditional hallway. However, many of these half duplexes have been modernized and renovated over the years, with some appearing so updated that their original construction date may not be apparent at first glance.

Waterfront or Non Waterfront Homes in Key Colony Beach

The majority of properties in Key Colony Beach are situated along canals, offering waterfront views and access. However, there are also a few homes that are not located directly on the water, known as “dry lots.”

Key Colony Beach Condos and Townhomes

The majority of condos in Key Colony Beach are strategically located along West Ocean Drive or East Ocean Drive, offering breathtaking ocean views from the edge of the island. These condos have some of the best beaches in all the keys. However, it’s worth noting that only one condo in Key Colony Beach provides docks exclusively for its owners. If having a private dock outside your condo is a priority, you may need to explore other areas in the Florida Keys to find such amenities.

Cost of Real Estate

As one of the premier islands in the Florida Keys, Key Colony Beach is known for its exceptional beauty and desirable location. Consequently, the cost of owning a home in this sought-after area tends to be higher compared to other locations in the area.

Vacation Rentals in Key Colony Beach

Key Colony Beach is a coveted destination for vacation rentals due to its policy of allowing weekly rentals, making it one of the most popular vacation rental locations in the Florida Keys. In fact, there are currently more vacation rentals than full-time residences in the area. Vacation rentals are typically managed by local companies, which charge an average management fee of around 20 percent of the rental income. This makes it a lucrative option for property owners who are looking to generate income through short-term rentals.

Two Vacation Rental Seasons

Key Colony Beach experiences two distinct vacation rental seasons. The first season is from January through April, when the island sees an influx of “snowbirds” seeking warmth during the winter months. The second season falls in the summer months of June to August, attracting families from Florida and beyond for summer vacations. On the other hand, September, October, and November tend to be slower and less crowded months, with fewer visitors compared to the peak seasons.

Second Homes in Key Colony Beach

While some owners opt to keep their properties in Key Colony Beach as second homes and not rent them out, this is not a common practice. This is because homes in Key Colony Beach are highly sought-after for vacation rentals and can generate substantial income for property owners. As a result, the majority of homeowners choose to take advantage of the lucrative rental market in Key Colony Beach and rent out their properties to generate additional revenue.

East Facing and West Facing

When searching for a home in Key Colony Beach, you’ll often come across listings that mention “East Facing” or “West Facing.” An “East Facing” home means that in the late afternoon, when you’re in your backyard by the canal, you’ll have shade. On the other hand, a “West Facing” home will have sunshine in the later afternoon. Generally, an East facing home is preferred because Key Colony Beach can get hot, especially during the summer. If you plan to live in Key Colony Beach full time, I highly recommend considering an “East Facing” property. However, if you’re a snowbird and only plan to visit during the winter months, a “West Facing” home could be a good option.

Canals in Key Colony Beach

Key Colony Beach is renowned for its exceptional boating opportunities and picturesque canals, making it a dream destination for boating enthusiasts. The majority of canals in Key Colony Beach are an impressive 200 feet wide, providing ample space for smooth navigation. Additionally, Key Colony Beach’s strategic location near Vaca Cut, which connects the ocean to the gulf, further enhances its appeal for boaters. Whether you’re cruising the canals or exploring the open waters, Key Colony Beach offers unparalleled boating experiences in the Florida Keys.

Local Resources:

City of Key Colony Beach

Seach Homes for Sale Key Colony Beach

AMY PRUMO &

THOMAS CARDEN

Amy is a highly accomplished Florida Keys Elite Agent and Diamond Award Winner with over a decade of experience in real estate. With a background in marketing and sales strategy development, she offers a versatile skill set and a commitment to excellence. Tom is an exceptional professional in the Building, Planning, Zoning, and Development field, known for his expertise and leadership. As the owner of Alliance Custom Builders, he delivers top-quality construction projects, supported by his extensive experience and licenses.

Amy and Tom’s outstanding track records and leadership positions in their fields have earned them widespread respect and admiration.

Casa Clara in Key Colony Beach is the Perfect Beachfront Investment

Are you dreaming of owning your very own piece of paradise in the Florida Keys? Look no further than Casa Clara in Key Colony Beach! This stunning beachfront condominium is a slice of heaven nestled in one of the most sought-after locations in the Florida Keys. From its fantastic amenities to its breathtaking ocean views, Casa Clara offers a truly unparalleled beachfront investment.

Location, Location, Location

One of the biggest draws of Casa Clara is its prime location in Key Colony Beach. Known as the “Gem of the Florida Keys,” Key Colony Beach is a charming, secluded island community located just east of Marathon. This quaint island offers a tranquil and peaceful atmosphere, perfect for those seeking a laid-back beach lifestyle. With its pristine sandy beaches, local shops and restaurants, parks and golf course, Key Colony Beach is a paradise for beach lovers, boaters, and water enthusiasts.

Waterfront Living at Its Finest

Casa Clara Condominium is a sprawling oceanfront property that boasts 82 exquisite 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom units, each of which offers stunning views of the ocean or the oceanfront. Every unit features a private balcony or patio, allowing residents and guests to bask in the mesmerizing sights and sounds of the sea.

One of the standout features of Casa Clara Condominium is its ample parking facilities, ensuring that all residents and guests have convenient access to their vehicles. The property also boasts private tennis courts and shuffleboard courts, providing opportunities for recreation and friendly competition. For those looking to take a dip, a large swimming pool awaits.

Casa Clara Condominium includes a 150-foot fishing pier and over 200 feet of sandy beaches.

Investment Potential

In addition to being a dream home for beach lovers, Casa Clara also offers excellent investment potential. The Florida Keys are a highly desirable vacation destination, attracting millions of visitors every year. Owning a beachfront property like Casa Clara provides a unique opportunity to generate rental income through vacation rentals when you’re not using the home yourself. The demand for vacation rentals in the Florida Keys is high, and the potential for a solid return on investment is promising.

Casa Clara offers rental options with a minimum duration of two weeks. The onsite local manager ensures a seamless and hassle-free experience for owners.

Rental Rates 

Please check rates with onsite manager as rate can always change

Home Owners Association 

Casa Clara has a mandatory Home Owners Associations.  The fees include building insurance (wind and flood) Common Area Maintenance, Sewer, Water and Cable.

Pets 

Pets are allowed at Casa Clara with restrictions. 1 pet per owner and cannot exceed 35 pounds.

Washer and Dryers

Washer and Dryers are located in the units.

Local Resources 

Casa Clara Website 

City of Key Colony Beach