ICNDadmin, Author at Last Key Realty Blog

December 2016 Review/Photo of the Month

Each month we select a memorable guest review or photo to win a $100 cash card. Our December 2016 winner is Michael Dye, who shared a photo of his group and himself enjoying their Vacation Rental, :: PILAR’S SECRET :: and submitted a lovely five-star review of his stay with us. Thank you for sharing!

There’s nothing more rewarding for us than receiving a five-star review from a guest and to see our guests enjoying their vacations. Seeing these captured moments reminds us how lucky we are to do what we do and to live in such a magical place.

For future guests, send us a photo/video of your Key West Vacation and submit your memorable review for your stay to be entered for a chance to win a $100 cash card. You could be January’s winner!

January is Fun in Key West!

There is never a bad time to visit Key West, but January may be the best month to enjoy the southernmost part of the United States. While the rest of the country is bundled up indoors, the month of January in Key West is traditionally in the mid-70s and sunny. Besides having superb weather, January in Key West is loaded with an abundance of exciting events for tourists and residents alike. Here’s a short list of exciting happenings taking place in Key West during the month of January:

30^th Annual Regatta Race Week – Taking place January 15-20, this thrilling must-see event features world-class yachting competition from all over the world. There will be upwards of 100 yacht teams competing for class Championships and is a fun time for the whole family. To view the action, fans can book seats on spectator boats ranging from excursion catamarans to historic tall ships or from land at Key West’s Atlantic-front restaurants, resorts and beaches.

12^th Annual Key West Seafood Festival – As long as you’re not allergic to shellfish, you’ll absolutely love this event! Held at Key West’s Bayview Park on January 14 & 15, the Seafood Festival is sure to be a weekend of shell cracking, butter dipping fun. A family-friendly event with fresh Key West seafood, drinks, marine-related crafts, youth activities, and live music.

Key West Food & Wine Festival – Grab a wine glass and a fork, as you pair your favorite vino with Key West’s finest culinary delicacies. From January 25-29, enjoy premiere cuisine and wine brought to you by top chefs and restaurateurs in a flavorful schedule of events for food lovers. Highlights include neighborhood wine strolls, food and wine pairings, intriguing seminars and a grand tasting.

57^th Annual Key West House & Garden Tours – Have you ever wanted to see the inside of Key West’s oldest and most exquisite homes? Here is your chance! Tour a series of elegant and unique private homes, ranging from luxurious restorations to creative renovations, and the interior design that complements each. March tours are offered 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on January 13 & 14.

32^nd Annual Key West Craft Show – Strengthen your craft game by joining the thousands of attendees browsing and buying creatively crafted items made by local artisans who gather to display their talents at this popular outdoor festival. Event held January 28 & 29 on Whitehead Street in historic Old Town Key West.

It’s not too late to plan your January escape of the blistering winter experienced by most of the country. Come down for a long weekend, kick back for a week, or stay for the whole month! We still have some homes available for January, these homes include:

Gulfside Vistas

Stunning Third Floor 2 Bedroom, 2.5 Bathroom Waterfront Condominium in Truman Annex with Waterfront Community Pool Access. Available Weekly.

Suzy’s Parrot Perch

Charming Second Story 2 Bedroom, 1 Bathroom Apartment in Old Town Near Duval Street. Available Nightly & Weekly.

Octopus’s Garden

Beautiful 2-Story 3 Bedroom, 3 Bathroom Private Home at Coral Hammock Gated Community with Pool & Fitness Center. Available Nightly & Weekly.

Casita Angelita

Fully Renovated First Floor 2 Bedroom, 2 Bathroom Condo located just off Duval Street. Available Nightly & Weekly.

Nature’s Edge

Luxurious First Floor 2 Bedroom, 2 Bathroom Condo at Smathers Beach. Available Nightly & Weekly.

Visit our website: www.lastkeyrealty.com to see all of our available Vacation Rentals and to book your Key West stay for January, it will be here before you know it! See you in Paradise ?

November 2016 Review/Photo of the Month

Each month we select the most memorable guest Review or Photo that we received during that month to win a $100 cash card. Our November 2016 winner is the Schmidt Family, who stayed with us at :: PAPA’S CASITA :: and submitted a lovely 5-star review, as well as shared an awesome photo of themselves enjoying the home’s lavish pool!

schmidt-review schmidtf5153

The highest compliment we can receive from a guest is a 5-star review, and it warms our hearts to see photos of our guests enjoying their Key West vacations. It reminds us how lucky we are to be doing what we do and to live in such a magical place.

For our future guests, be sure to send us a photo or video of your time on vacation and/or submit your memorable review for your stay with us to be entered for a chance to win a $100 cash card. You could be the December winner!!!

Interview with the Boss of Last Key Realty

I recently had the privilege to sit down and interview the Founder and Owner of Last Key Realty, Chris Santry, who also happens to be my boss. The purpose of this interview was to inform curious minds of the current overall state of the Key West Real Estate and Vacation Rental markets, as well as what the future holds for these markets and for our company.

Q: How has the Key West Vacation Rental Market changed since the start of Last Key Realty?

A: “When we first started in 2008, the “off-season” was truly an OFF-season. It used to be that a person could actually walk down the middle of Duval Street in Old Town without worrying about being hit by a car. Today, there is basically no “off-season”, with many summer weeks being completely sold out. And I’ve also seen the Key West Vacation Rental Market grow into a much more upscale vacation destination in recent years.”

Q: Where do you see the Key West Vacation Rental Market going?

A: “I see this upscale movement that was started by baby boomers continuing. As boomers are aging, younger generations who have discovered Key West are starting to take their place.”

Q: How was the Key West Real Estate Investment Market changed since the start of Last Key Realty?

A: “In just the ten years since Last Key Realty was founded, we have seen the investment real estate market virtually disappear and then return back to full strength. Presently, you have two groups competing: the people who are looking to purchase their dream or retirement home and reside in Key West, and the other group looking to invest in Vacation Rental property. This makes for an extremely vibrant real estate market. Thankfully many of the factors that attributed to the market crash a few years ago, like factoring of mortgages, no longer exist. We have a much more conservative banking system in place and there is also a much higher percentage of cash deals being made.”

Q: What is your future vision for Last Key Realty?

A: “My future vision for Last Key is controlled growth. It is essential to continue doing the same things that got us where we are today. Most importantly solid staffing, it is essential that we have committed and passionate people.”

Not on our Mailing List? Don’t miss our latest Newsletter Highlighting Vacation Rentals

Although Fall is just settling in for many of us, the cold reality of winter is just around the corner. And while many locations around the US become unbearably cold, Key West historically sits in the 70’s with sunny and breezy conditions. So it’s not surprising that December through April is considered our prime season.

Due to a few cancellations prior to the final payment date this week for our prime season pre-bookings, we do have a bit of availability left for prime season dates in some of our best rental homes.

Give your winter self a gift and reserve your Key West vacation home for a few nights, a week, or a month during the coldest time of your year for what is sure to be a welcome respite once that day finally comes. Here is a quick look at homes still available for prime season rentals – don’t wait until we’re all sold out for season!

Featured Listings with Upcoming Availability

La Vie En Rose

This classic mid-century modern home is set in the Beachside district of Key West. This four-bedroom home also boasts a lushly landscaped front and backyard, spacious brick patio, free form swimming pool and Jacuzzi.

casa-amarilla Casa Amarilla

This newly renovated private home is anything but simple. Located in the Seaport district of Old Town Key West, this classic conch cottage is the best of both the wonder of historic island life and the comforts of modern living.

lilac-cottage The Lilac Cottage

This charming home has just been completely renovated, from its gingerbread on the front porch to the restored Dade County Pine inside. All of the furnishings are brand new and of the highest quality.

splish-splash Splish Splash

This jewel-like townhome at the Key West Golf Club is a breath of fresh air with its upgrades and design. Lovingly furnished with a modern coastal ambiance that incorporates high technology touches throughout.

calmer-waters Calmer Waters

Located in Sunset Marina, a gated community located on Stock Island right off the entrance to Key West. This condo is close to Old Town yet is quiet and secluded, with spectacular views of the sunsets over Florida Bay.

Christmas Getaways

Although we have mostly filled up for the week of New Years, our Christmas week (Dec 19-27 dates) has plenty of availability left. Use Promotional Code MerryKW at check out on our website to receive a 5% discount on your Christmas week reservation! Offer good through December 15th for stays between Dec 19-27, 2016.

New Rental Properties

Check out our newest additions to our rental inventory and be the first to experience these fabulous rental options. Be sure to see Smooth Sailing, it’s our first one-bedroom weekly rental in our program!

Want to join our mailing list? Sign up to receive special offers and updates every month.

October 2016 Review/Photo of the Month

Each month we select a memorable guest review or photo to win a $100 cash card. Our October 2016 winner is the Sheldon Family, who stayed with us at :: THE CAPTAIN’S ANNEX :: We received a lovely 5-star review of their experience vacationing with us and they even submitted a Family Photo of themselves enjoying the home. Thank you for sharing!

Seeing these amazing moments of our guests’ vacations just reminds us how lucky we are to do what we do and to live in such a magical place. For future guests, send us a photo/video of your time on vacation and/or submit your memorable review of your stay to be entered for a chance to win a $100 cash card.

September 2016 Review/Photo of the Month

Each month we select a memorable guest review or photo to win a $100 cash card. Our September 2016 winner is the Spalding Family, who stayed with us for a month at :: ISLA MOMENTOS :: They were kind enough to share some lovely photos of themselves enjoying their time in Key West and the rental home, as well as submitting an excellent 5-star review online.

Seeing these amazing moments of our guests’ vacations, and hearing that we’ve successfully done our job of enhancing guest experiences reminds us just how lucky we are to be doing what we do and to live in such a magical place.

For our future guests, send us a photo or video of your time on vacation and be sure to submit your memorable review about your stay to be entered for a chance to win a $100 cash card. You may be next month’s winner!

A Different Kind of Colorful Key West This Fall

Greetings from Key West,

Summer has come to an end, but that doesn’t mean the sun has stopped shining in Key West. As a year-round vacation destination, there is truly never a bad time to visit Key West. Over the next few months we have lots of exciting events happening that will make a last minute getaway worthwhile!

Have you heard of WINEDINE KEYWEST? It kicks off this month and is an exciting opportunity to experience Key West’s iconic food scene at local discount prices. Participating restaurants will offer three-course prix-fixe menus from September 16^th – October 16^th. For more information on WINEDINE KEY WEST, take a look at their website: www.winedinekeywest.com. We are offering a last minute reservation discount when you book a Last Key Vacation Rental between now and October 22^nd.Of course, the last week of October is Fantasy Fest. This year’s dates are October 21^st – 30^th. Take part in the crazy weeklong shenanigans featuring the Bahama Village Goombay Festival, the Zombie Bike Ride, the Pet Masquerade, the 34^th Annual Headdress Ball, the Fantasy Fest Street Fair, The Famous Fantasy Fest Parade, and much, much more! Put on your most extraordinary costume and join us for a week of Halloween fun! For complete details, check out the official Fantasy Fest website: www.fantasyfest.com We still have nightly & weekly rental homes available for the week of Fantasy Fest, including: Avalynn House, Casa Victoria, Coastal Loving, Gulfside Vistas, Suzy’s Parrot Perch, and The Commander’s Sanctuary.Are you a boating fan? Then get your front row seat at the 36^th annual Super Boat International Races, taking place November 6^th – 13^th. The world’s biggest and fastest offshore racing series held at the Truman Waterfront is an exhilarating must-see event. Be sure to visit the Super Boat International website for further details and the complete race schedule: http://superboat.com/race-schedule/key-west-schedule/ Remaining available nightly & weekly homes for Super Boat Race Week include: Blue Heron’s Cove, Casa Louisa, Cielo Azul, Octopus’s Garden, Plantation Tropicale, and The Smiling Ibis.Making Thanksgiving plans? Did you know that turkey tastes better in paradise? All of our homes include a fully equipped kitchen, perfect for preparing your Thanksgiving Day feast. If you prefer a catered Thanksgiving, our concierge would be delighted to arrange that for you. Select your Thanksgiving Vacation Home in Key West before they are all booked up, remaining available homes include: Conch in the Treetops, Eden @ the Annex, Nature’s Edge, Puerta Coralina, Sea Captain’s Haven, and The Contented Crane.

Enjoy more privacy, unrivaled guest services, and all of the amenities our luxury Vacation Homes have to offer this Fall! Hope to see you soon!

Your friends in Key West,

Guest Services Coordinators: Your Home Includes A Host

At Last Key Realty, our Guest Services Coordinators are the face of our brand. They are a personal contact for our guests throughout the entire vacation process. From the moment you arrive in Key West until the time you leave, our Guest Services Coordinators are responsible for making sure your vacation is as rich and enjoyable as possible.

After your reservation has been finalized, your Guest Services Coordinator makes first contact with the you via a “Welcome Letter”. This initial letter provides our guests with an agenda of what to expect from that moment leading up to the time of your arrival. The next step is fulfilling any guest requests or special accommodations in preparation for guest arrival. This could include any number of preparations depending on your particular request. Whether it be converting beds to a certain configuration, shopping for the groceries you requested to be ready upon your arrival, or simply answering questions about Key West that may come up as you make your plans and start to pack. Here is basically where all of the behind the scenes action occurs.

Now comes the fun part… guest arrival! Your arrival is really an “event” for us. We are planning not only to welcome you to a meticulously prepared vacation home, but also to kick off your vacation itself in the best way we can. We cut out the “go to an office to pick up a key” step in your valuable arrival timeline and ask you to head straight to your vacation home, where your Guest Services Coordinator will meet you for check-in. Each Guest Services Coordinator has their own unique check-in process, but an arrival typically includes a thorough presentation of the property, any possible recommendations of restaurants or activities in the area, and anything else involved with making sure you are properly settled in.

Although the Guest Services Coordinator physically leaves the property after check-in, they are essentially with you throughout your entire stay. Our plan is for your stay to go completely uninterrupted, but of course things happen (even in paradise!). Should any problems/inconveniences occur during your stay, the Guest Services Coordinator is only a call away, and will handle the situation in a timely manner, guaranteed!

When it comes time for departure your Guest Services Coordinator will come to the property and bid you farewell, providing a bittersweet ending to what is hopefully the most enjoyable vacation of your life!

The best way to really see how a Guest Services Coordinator can impact your stay is to read the reviews for any of our vacation homes. Yes, you’ll find mention of a beautiful, clean, well-maintained and fully equipped property, but you will also find mentions of the particular Guest Services Coordinator involved in that stay and how he/she helped make the trip memorable and enjoyable.

To meet our Guest Services Coordinator team, visit our Meet Our Staff page. Ready to experience the Last Key Realty difference for yourself? Browse and reserve our vacation homes right here on our website to start planning your Key West adventure. We look forward to displaying our unrivaled guest services to you on your next visit to Key West!

Why Our New Website Is The Most Exciting Move For Our Company in 2016

As the vacation rental market grows worldwide, the expectations of vacationers shopping online has morphed drastically in the past two years. Four years ago we launched a gallery-style website that focused on showcasing our luxurious vacation homes through photography. When we embarked on the development of our brand new website in 2015, we challenged ourselves to maintain that simple, gallery-style format while rising to (and hopefully exceeding) the market demands for technology. We are so incredibly thrilled about the introduction of our new website, that has achieved all that we hoped to deliver for our future guests.

With all new booking customization capabilities and search functionality, this new site allows a vacationer to shop our rental homes in a whole new dimension. Most excitingly, we are now completely enabled for direct online booking, making the booking process easier for our guests and cutting out the additional fees being charged by third party listing sites.

Other new features include:

Larger, higher resolution photos
Real-time availability updates
Map view of all of our properties
Customizable reservation add-ons at booking
Full MLS Integration for Real Estate interests
Much, much more!

This is only the beginning for Last Key’s technology integration to better service our guests. We are already busy exploring “Phase 2” of this new site. As we do, we encourage you as website users to submit any feedback on our website that may be helpful to us in making it as user-friendly and functional as it can be. Website feedback can be submitted to rentals@lastkeyrealty.com or through our Contact Us page.

Cheers to the Future!

Key West is BACK IN ACTION and ready to welcome all Conch lovers from around the world!