If you need assistance, please call 305-395-0814

Lela Ashkarian | Real Estate Florida Keys Blog

Monday, February 9, 2026   /   by Lela Ashkarian

Big news for Monroe County homeowners—and it’s effective immediately

Home








Services








About Us








Book An Appointment



































Big news for Monroe County homeowners—and it’s effective immediately. As of February 4, the Monroe County Board of County Commissioners has officially voted to eliminate the long-standing 299-square-foot limit on enclosed storage space beneath elevated homes in unincorporated Monroe County. The inspection-at-time-of-sale requirement is also gone.
 
What This Means for Homeowners
? No more 299 sq. ft. cap on enclosed storage below elevated homes
? No inspection required at time of sale
? County code amendments are now in effect
? Permit applications can be submitted immediately
 
Homeowners who want to build more than 299 square feet of enclosed space can apply now through Monroe County’s perm ...

  sellersindemand, dreamhomegoalsfloridakeys, chooseashkarianforresults, floridakeyshomesforsale, sellsmartinfloridakeys, unleashyourhome'spotential, unlockyourhomepotential, expertadviceforsellers

Thursday, February 5, 2026   /   by Lela Ashkarian

Big Change for Florida Keys Homeowners: Expanded Storage Allowed Under Elevated Homes

Big Change for Florida Keys Homeowners: Expanded Storage Allowed Under Elevated Homes
The Monroe County Board of County Commissioners has approved an important update that is already impacting homeowners throughout unincorporated Monroe County. As of February 4, the County officially eliminated the long-standing 299-square-foot limit for enclosed storage space beneath elevated homes.
For Florida Keys property owners, buyers, and investors, this policy change represents increased flexibility, improved functionality, and potential market advantages — while still maintaining strict federal flood safety requirements.
 
Understanding Elevated Homes in the Florida Keys


Elevated homes are a signature design throughout the Florida Keys. Built above flood levels, these homes protect residents from storm surge and coastal flooding. The area below these homes has traditionally been restricted to ensure safety and compliance with floodplain regulations.
 
For years, prop ...

  sellersindemand, dreamhomegoalsfloridakeys, chooseashkarianforresults, floridakeyshomesforsale, sellsmartinfloridakeys, unleashyourhome'spotential, unlockyourhomepotential

Monday, February 2, 2026   /   by Lela Ashkarian

What If the Most Valuable Feature Isn’t Visible?

Is Elevation Adding Six Figures to Your Home’s Value?
In today’s Florida Keys market, elevation has quietly become one of the most powerful drivers of value—often without homeowners realizing it.
For years, buyers focused on waterfront views, dockage, and finishes. Those still matter. But now, what sits beneath the home—its elevation relative to flood zones—can influence price just as much as what’s inside it.
Why Elevation Matters More Than Ever
Elevation impacts three things buyers care deeply about:


Insurance costs – Above-flood homes often qualify for significantly lower premiums


Risk exposure – Less concern about storm surge, flooding, and future regulatory changes


Peace of mind – A lifestyle benefit that buyers are increasingly willing to pay for


When buyers compare two similar homes, the one above flood frequently feels like the safer, smarter long-term choice—even if it costs more upfront.
How m ...

  sellersindemand, dreamhomegoalsfloridakeys, floridakeyshomesforsale, sellsmartinfloridakeys, unleashyourhome'spotential, unlockyourhomepotential, keycolonybeachvacationrentals, marathonfloridakeys, internatioanlpresidentelite, homevalue, whypurchaseinmin7daysvacationrentals

Tuesday, January 27, 2026   /   by Lela Ashkarian

Luxury Island Property Duck Key Florida

Here’s the truth most people don’t say out loud: luxury island property isn’t about status, it’s about control.
When you invest in Duck Key, you’re not just buying a home—you’re buying leverage over your time, your health, and your environment.
Think like a high-level decision maker for a moment: Check these Current Listings in Duck Key
Lifestyle
Duck Key attracts people who value calm over chaos—boating in the morning, sunsets in the evening, no crowds, no noise. Your nervous system resets here. That’s not accidental—that’s strategic living.
Environment
Clean air matters. Clean water matters more. Duck Key sits in one of the most pristine marine environments in the U.S. Less pollution, fewer people, more space. Your body knows the difference before your mind does.
Mental Edge
High performers protect their energy. Island living reduces friction—less stress, fewer distractions, clearer thinking. This is wh; ...

  sellersindemand, dreamhomegoalsfloridakeys, chooseashkarianforresults, floridakeyshomesforsale, sellsmartinfloridakeys, unleashyourhome'spotential, unlockyourhomepotential, expertadviceforsellers, lelaashkarian, floridakeysluxurylistings, smartsellersdecide, toplistingagent, coldwellbanker, investmentproperitesinmarathon, keycolonybeachvacationrentals, benefitpurchasinginfloridakeys, marathonfloridakeys

Wednesday, January 14, 2026   /   by Lela Ashkarian

Good News for Florida Homeowners & Drivers: Insurance Relief Is Here

Florida’s insurance market is finally turning a corner—and that matters for your wallet.Across the state, new insurers are entering the market, competition is increasing, and many homeowners and drivers are already seeing real rate reductions.Major carriers are reporting average homeowner savings of 5–8%, with even bigger relief projected at upcoming renewals.Auto insurance is improving too, with loss ratios dropping and insurers cutting rates for thousands of Florida drivers.These changes didn’t happen by chance—recent reforms are stabilizing the system and driving long-term savings.But here’s the key: not everyone automatically benefits unless their policy is reviewed and positioned correctly.If you want to know whether you’re overpaying or missing out on these savings, now is the time—call me and let’s review your options together.
 
From beachfront getaways to income-producing investments, the Florida Keys offer rare oppom ...

  sellersindemand, dreamhomegoalsfloridakeys, chooseashkarianforresults, floridakeyshomesforsale, sellsmartinfloridakeys, unleashyourhome'spotential, unlockyourhomepotential, expertadviceforsellers, lelaashkarian, floridakeysluxurylistings, discoveryourhomevalue, smartsellersdecide, toplistingagent, coldwellbanker, partnerwiththebest, investmentproperitesinmarathon, keycolonybeachvacationrentals, benefitpurchasinginfloridakeys, marathonfloridakeys, internatioanlpresidentelite, homevalue