Lowballing is back. Here’s how to ace the “insult offer”
Homebuyers, it’s time to sharpen your haggling skills. Nearly two-thirds of buyers paid under list price last year, the highest share in six years. The typical discount was 7.9%, the biggest markdown in 13 years—about $31,600 off the typical home. And with mortgage rates now below 6%, buyers stand to save even more...
3 To Know: $3 million raised for charity; Naples man sentenced; more
1. CHILDREN’S CHARITIES: $3 million raised at SWFL Food, Wine Fest auction. The 2026 Southwest Florida Wine & Food Fest raised a whopping $3 million. It kicked off Feb. 27 and culminated with a Grand Tasting event Feb. 28 at the Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort & Spa in Bonita Springs.
FWC reports additional 15 manatee deaths in Lee County
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission has documented an additional 15 manatee deaths in Lee County since announcing the deaths of 25 manatees last week from a cold stress event around Manatee Park. While the more recent deaths haven’t been given a singular cause, the majority are believed to...
Cape Coral teen arrested after high-speed chase and crash
CAPE CORAL, Florida - A Cape Coral teenager was arrested following a high-speed chase and crash on Wednesday, according to the Cape Coral Police Department. Christian James Decena, an 18-year-old from Cape Coral, was observed by a traffic unit officer driving a silver Kia sedan at 55 mph in a 35-mph zone on Nicholas...
Judge John Carlin, husband of Lee County schools superintendent, in ICU after ‘cardiac event’
LEE COUNTY, Fla. — Lee County Judge John Carlin suffered a cardiac event on Feb. 27 and remains in the ICU, his wife, Denise Carlin, EdD, Lee County Schools Superintendent, said. Doctors continue to monitor John Carlin's condition and conduct further testing, Denise Carlin said. Carlin's family is grateful...
It’s iconic. It’s rare. It’s the most sought after shell in SW Florida
This week (Mach 5-7) the Sanibel Shell Show & Festival makes its triumphant return to the Sanibel Community House for the first time since 2022. Hurricane Ian disrupted the popular and well-attended shell show when it caused devastating damage to Sanibel on Sept. 28, 2022. Its return to its original home is worth...
Charlotte County flood advisory allowed to expire Thursday
CHARLOTTE COUNTY, Fla. — The flood advisory for Charlotte County on March 5, 2026 has been permitted to expire. The advisory included Punta Gorda, Aqui Esta, and Port Charlotte near the base of the US-41 bridge. According to Gulf Coast News Live Doppler Radar, rain totals in excess of...
Phelan Family Brands opens Bimini Basin Seafood and Cocktails
The long-anticipated opening of Bimini Basin Seafood and Cocktails took place Feb. 28, filled with a gentle ocean breeze and guests ready to check out the experience. Attendees were invited to enter from both the boat dock in the rear and through the prominent front doors. Bimini Basin Seafood and Cocktails is...
The Massive Indoor Flea Market In Florida That’s Almost Too Good To Be True
Some places sound too good to be true, which usually means they are. But Fleamasters Flea Market in Fort Myers is that rare exception where the reality actually exceeds the hype, delivering an indoor shopping experience that seems almost impossible in today’s retail landscape. Over 900 vendors under one...
Gulf Coast Town Center to host Deb & The Dynamics for its upcoming First...
Gulf Coast Town Center invites the Southwest Florida community to kick off the month with live music and an evening outdoors during its upcoming First Friday Concert, continuing the center’s commitment to providing free, family-friendly entertainment for residents and visitors alike. Attendees are encouraged to bring...
