Lely, Fiddler’s Creek, Vineyards? (Bonita Springs, Naples: rentals, HOA fees, condos)

[salmonfish20]

My husband and I are looking to purchase a second home in a resort community in Naples. We are in our early 50’s with college age children. Looking for somewhere to escape the cold during the winter, but would also like the option of being able to rent out when not using. We are considering Fiddler’s Creek, Lely Resort and Vineyards. Any other communities we should be looking at? Any opinions on the three listed? We have rented at Fiddler’s Creek and do like it, but would like to explore other options as well.

[Marc Middleton]

Lely is huge, obviously, and they have relaxed rental restrictions. You can still find good deals there, just keep in mind if the economy crashes, a place like Vineyards will hold up better than say Lely so you'll have to expect lower rents/higher vacancies.

Obviously price makes a difference as well, not to mention HOA fees.

If you want more detailed info, send me a PM and we can chat about your options.

[Thundarr457]

Vineyards hands down the best, no comparison. Lely and Fiddlers are in less desirable South Naples. Vineyards is a choice area, we looked at all three.

[lynnc99]

Vineyards is a far far better location, with more desirable resale values. Close to all the essentials, the park, the main library, Mercato, Waterside, and more. And the old adage is true: location, location, location.

I remember Fiddlers Creek as sort of in the middle of nowhere for years....and they've had some serious pythons show up down there!
https://www.naplesnews.com/story/new...es/1039547001/

[bbtondo]

Since we ended up in the Vineyards I would say to look here! If you're looking for a condo with a small community pool there are several right on Vineyards Blvd outside the community gates that are nice. There are also some Condos and small homes inside the gates that are nice. All depends on your budget. Not all have community pools or gyms, so be aware of that.

The vineyards country club is optional. You can get a social membership, sport, golf, etc. When we decided to buy in the Vineyards we included the price of the cc in our budget. Great new wellness center, great tennis, golf, new tiki bar by the pool almost open, new dining room renovation. A lot on their social calendar.

We like that the Vineyards cc is optional. A lot of communities a social membership is mandatory. The vineyards is also privately owned, therefore you'll never get accessed for all the renovations, golf course renewal etc. Although, they certainly can charge more for fees in the future. But then, if you don't like it, you quit. We liked that option. We love the location of the Vineyards.

Look at all the fees where you are looking: Taxes, cdd?, HOA, yearly community fee? If there's a club, is it mandatory or optional?

You may want to rent for a season at some of these communities to see if you like it.

I'd be more than happy to answer any questions you may have regarding the Vineyards. Good Luck!

[Oliveguy]

South Naples is up and coming. The Isles of Collier Preserve is a wonderful community with lots of amenities and only 4 miles from 5th Avenue. There are rental restrictions (no weekly rentals) which is a good thing for your property not to mention wear and tear on your home. My wife and I are moving there next month and we can't wait. You owe it to yourselves to check out the neighborhood.

[bbtondo]

Isles of Collier is beautiful. We went there with friends that were looking for a place. They decided against it since it was above their budget and they didn't want to be that far south.

[Sandsam]

Take a look at Naples Reserve. It's in South Naples. Nice amenities and lower HOA. No golf, however. It's a new construction community built around a huge lake. Also check out Esplanade - the one off Immokalee. Have you looked at Valencia Bonita in Bonita Springs? 55+ new community off Bonita Beach Rd.

Fiddler's has a $15-18k mandatory club fee - a definite negative for most buyers when it comes time to resell.

HOAs typically do not allow weekly rentals. Some allow monthly; some are very strict. Be sure to check the HOA documents if you are planning on renting it.

[markjames68]

Originally Posted by Sandsam

Take a look at Naples Reserve. It's in South Naples. Nice amenities and lower HOA. No golf, however. It's a new construction community built around a huge lake. Also check out Esplanade - the one off Immokalee. Have you looked at Valencia Bonita in Bonita Springs? 55+ new community off Bonita Beach Rd.

Fiddler's has a $15-18k mandatory club fee - a definite negative for most buyers when it comes time to resell.

HOAs typically do not allow weekly rentals. Some allow monthly; some are very strict. Be sure to check the HOA documents if you are planning on renting it.

I would avoid Esplanade. I looked into it as an option 4-1/2 years ago at the start of the buildout and later spoke with some residents who were very unhappy with the HOA. To the point that they were picketing at the entrance.

Unless OP is a big golfer I would avoid golf communities altogether.

[Sandsam]

Originally Posted by markjames68

I would avoid Esplanade. I looked into it as an option 4-1/2 years ago at the start of the buildout and later spoke with some residents who were very unhappy with the HOA. To the point that they were picketing at the entrance.

Unless OP is a big golfer I would avoid golf communities altogether.

I have a client looking to build in there in the non-golf section. Thank you for this feedback. I appreciate it!