Gulf of Mexico Second Homes Easy on the Budget in Cape Coral

Editor’s Note: Recently, MoneyWise revealed its list of the 40 most frugal and friendly places to retire. In a bid to provide an idea of what housing inventory is available in these cities and towns, we’re taking a look at listings in each of the cities on the list.

Not everyone can spend $1 million or more on a second home, even if it’s with the idea that eventually you’ll retire there. So when MoneyWise’s list of 40 places to retire that are more budget-friendly came out, we were curious — what kind of homes could you find in these towns?

Last week, we looked at the 40th city on the list — Scottsdale, Arizona. This week, we look at Cape Coral, and found lots of incredible inventory for as low as the $150,000s to the millions.

There is something for every budget, it seems.

“Although there will be some rebuilding to do in this city after Hurricane Irma, Cape Coral is a lovely town worthy of your consideration,” Moneywise said. “Cape Coral is located on the west coast of the peninsula and is known for its low crime rate, excellent restaurants, and perpetually sunny Florida weather!”

“The cost of living in Cape Coral is relatively low when compared to the cost of living in Miami or Fort Lauderdale,” the story added.

The city offers much in the way of amenities (as do many of the planned communities), including golf, splash grounds, art studios, and more. But with more than 400 miles of canals, you can bet that boating, fishing, and other water activities take center stage.

ONE STORY HOME CLOSE TO GOLF AND KAYAKING ACCESS

Price: $259,900

At the lowest price point of the three homes we are looking at, this three-bedroom, three-bath home in Northwest Cape Coral is still packing a huge punch.

Inside, travertine flooring creates an easy-cleaning scenario. A great room living area, a den with a great view of the pool, and an open kitchen provide plenty of room for entertaining.

A sizeable master bedroom has a walk-in closet, and a master bath with a travertine-lined shower enclosure, wall niches for storage, new faucets and new lighting.

Outside, a screened in lanai and enclosed pool provide plenty of sunny weather fun. The current owners have also thought about safety — a new roof was put on this year, and impact windows were installed as well.

It’s listed by Chris Porter with Cape Realty.

WATERFRONT GROUND FLOOR CONDO WITH A BOAT DOCK

Price: $374,900

In the middle range of our $200,000 to $700,000 range for our budget billets, this home with gulf access includes a boat dock with 10,000-pound lift, two catwalks around the boat, and more — just steps from the home.

This three-bedroom, two-bath first floor home has a screened, private lanai overlooking a lake, making the views of outside one of the best decorative touches you could ask for — although the plantation shutters, crown molding, 12-foot ceilings, and eight-foot raised panel doors are also pretty good at setting the stage.

Custom woodwork touches are throughout the home, including the den, wet bar and more. The master is generous, and its en-suite includes a soaker tub and separate shower.

The open-concept floor plan means the spacious kitchen overlooks all living areas.

“The home has been renovated/updated in the last few years,” said listing agent Ron Kohl with Amerivest Realty.

The community the home is in is beautifully landscaped, and has a boardwalk along Shadroe Lake. A tiki hut provides shaded views of the gulf, where you can watch for manatees and dolphins.

The furniture can be included for an additional cost.

CANAL HOME WITH ACCESS TO GULF AND RIVER

Price: $544,900

With a price point less than $600,000, this four-bedroom, two-and-a-half bath canal home really drives home how much bang you can get for your frugal buck in Cape Coral.

Located in the popular southwest Cape Coral, the home has a formal living room and a family room (which means lots of space for hosting warm-weather Christmases).

The “very open” kitchen overlooks the family room and pool area, which means snacks can go straight out the adjacent lanai.

The master suite is a relaxing enclave with an en-suite that has a soaking tub, walk-in shower, and dual sinks with a separate water closet.

It’s a short boat run to the river or the Gulf of Mexico, and the wide canal means you have pretty good privacy from your neighbors.

On the practical side, the HVAC system is newer, and the pool is heated for year-round enjoyment.

The home is listed by Alex Nicodemi of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Florida Realty.