Ask Key West Kate, home
Ask Key West Kate

Luxury & waterfront

Island property is a different kind of luxury.

In the Keys, the premium is measured in water: the view, the depth at the dock and the minutes to open water. Here is how Kate evaluates the homes that command it.

Search waterfront homesTell Kate what you want
A seaplane touching down on clear turquoise water

Kinds of waterfront

Not all water is the same

“Waterfront” covers very different properties in the Keys. Knowing which you want narrows the search quickly.

  1. Open water

    Homes facing open ocean, Gulf or bay water, with long views and the shortest run to the water you want to fish or cruise. Also the most exposed to wind and waves, so construction and elevation matter.

  2. Deep-water canals

    The classic Keys boating home: a private dock on a protected canal. Value turns on depth, width, the distance and route to open water, and any fixed bridges along the way.

  3. Oceanside and bayside

    The Atlantic side runs toward the reef; the Gulf and Florida Bay side toward the backcountry flats and the sunset. Each suits a different kind of boating, and a different evening.

  4. Historic Old Town

    Not on the water, but often among Key West’s most sought-after homes: restored wood-frame houses with porches, gardens and pools, a short walk or bicycle ride from the harbor.
Canal-front homes with private docks at sunset

Built around the boat

Before you fall for the dock

The right waterfront home fits the boat you have and the one you’re planning. Kate checks the details that decide whether it does.

  • Water depth. Depth at the dock and along the route, at low tide, matched to your boat’s draft.
  • Bridges. Fixed-bridge clearance between the dock and open water, for the boat you own and the one you might buy next.
  • Seawall and dock. Age, condition, materials and permits on record. Repairs here can be significant.
  • Lift. Capacity, power and condition of any boat lift, and whether it suits your boat.
  • Run time. Minutes to the reef, the backcountry or the nearest marina for fuel and service.

Second homes

A second home, done properly

Rental rules, insurance, property management and storm preparation decide whether a second home is a pleasure or a project. Read what’s different about buying here.

Looking for something specific?

Tell Kate the water, the boat and the island you have in mind, and she’ll watch for the right property.

Ask KateSearch waterfront