Island

Best Islands to Visit in 2025

Best Islands to Visit in 2025

With summer just a month away, we’re all looking for exotic destinations to spend our away time with loved ones. Here are 12 of the best islands to visit in 2025:

Rottnest Island (Wadjemup), Australia: Known for its quokkas, these cute marsupials make the island a unique destination. The island offers beautiful beaches and a relaxed atmosphere, making it a perfect getaway.

Taiwan: While not typically considered an island destination, Taiwan offers a diverse range of experiences, from coastal views and mountain hikes to cultural events and vibrant night markets. It’s a great choice for those looking for a mix of natural beauty and urban excitement.

Dominica: This Caribbean island is perfect for those seeking adventure. It features lush jungles, waterfalls, and the Kalinago Territory, where you can learn about the island’s indigenous culture. The island also offers opportunities for whale watching and exploring the Indian River by wooden boat.

Komodo Island, Indonesia: Home to the famous Komodo dragons, this island offers a unique wildlife experience. Visitors can take guided tours to see these prehistoric creatures, and the surrounding islands offer beautiful beaches and opportunities for snorkeling and diving.

Palawan, Philippines: This archipelago is a paradise for both adventure seekers and beach lovers. Highlights include the clear waters of Kayangan Lake, the lagoons of Bacuit Bay, and the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River. The dry season (November to May) is the best time to visit.

Sardinia, Italy: Known for its subtropical climate and beautiful beaches, Sardinia is a popular Mediterranean destination. The Costa Smeralda offers 12 miles of powdery sand and turquoise water, while the hilltop capital, Cagliari, provides cultural attractions like museums and historic sites.

Mauritius: Located in the Indian Ocean, Mauritius is known for its calm beaches and natural beauty. The island offers a mix of waterfalls, mountains, and geological wonders, making it a great destination for nature lovers.

Whitsundays, Australia: This collection of 74 islands off the coast of Queensland is perfect for a laid-back vacation. The Whitsundays are known for their proximity to the Great Barrier Reef, offering excellent opportunities for snorkeling and diving. Whitehaven Beach and Passage Peak are must-visit spots.

Santorini, Greece: This Greek island is famous for its volcanic beaches, such as Red Beach and Kamari Beach, and its iconic white-washed villages with blue-domed churches. Visitors can enjoy stunning sunset views from the cliffside village of Oia.

La Digue, Seychelles: Known for its pristine beaches and granite boulders, La Digue is a hidden gem in the Seychelles. It offers a peaceful and picturesque setting, ideal for relaxation and exploration.

Isla Mujeres, Mexico: Located just a short ferry ride from Cancun, Isla Mujeres is a vibrant island that’s always bustling with visitors. It’s a great choice for those who want to experience Caribbean island life without feeling too isolated.

Ambergris Caye, Belize: This small island is a popular tourist destination known for its affordable housing and vibrant expat community. It offers a tropical atmosphere and easy access to the Belize Barrier Reef.

Catalina Island, USA: Known for its harbor town of Avalon, Catalina Island offers a variety of outdoor activities, including diving, kayaking, and hiking. The island is part of the Channel Islands, which are known for their unique landscapes and marine life.

Lan Ha Bay, Vietnam: Located on Cát Bà Island, Lan Ha Bay offers a stunning landscape of limestone karsts and clear waters. Visitors can kayak through hidden lagoons and explore floating fishing villages.

These islands offer a range of experiences, from relaxation and beach time to adventure and cultural exploration.

Sources:

Clarke, D. (2025, April 8). 25 Unique and Incredible Islands To Visit in 2025. Dan Flying Solo. Retrieved May 7, 2025, from https://www.danflyingsolo.com/unique-islands-to-visit/

Wood, N. (2025, April 22). World’s Best Islands to Visit for 2025. US News. Retrieved May 7, 2025, from https://travel.usnews.com/rankings/best-islands-in-the-world/

Florida

Florida Housing Market Forecast

Florida Housing Market Forecast

The Florida housing market is expected to see modest growth over the next 10 years, with home prices predicted to increase rather than drop substantially. Freddie Mac and NAR predict home prices across the U.S. will grow in 2025, with Freddie Mac expecting a 0.6% bump and NAR expecting as much as a 2% increase.

In terms of specific investment types, residential rentals are expected to benefit from high demand due to population growth, providing a steady income, although property management can be time-consuming and tenant issues may arise. New construction investments can address housing shortages and potentially offer higher returns, but they require significant capital, face regulatory hurdles, and may encounter construction delays. Vacation rentals in tourist areas can have high earning potential and offer flexibility for personal use, though they are subject to seasonal fluctuations in demand and higher management costs. Emerging markets may offer lower entry costs and high appreciation potential, but they come with higher risk and may require more research due to less developed infrastructure.

The median sale price of homes in Florida is currently around $410,700, with inventory increasing by 26.9% year over year, and closed sales decreasing by 3.5%. The median time to sale has increased by 25%, and the average mortgage rate for a 15-year fixed loan is 6.03%.

For the next 5 years (2025-2030), the Florida housing market is expected to see continued growth, with inventory increasing and prices remaining stable or slightly rising.124 This period is seen as a favorable time for buyers, given the increasing inventory and decreasing prices.

The market saw a 10.5% decrease in condo and townhouse sales in 2024, which was the lowest number of such sales since 2010. However, the overall trend indicates a seller’s market for single-family homes, with a 4.7-month supply of homes available.

In summary, the Florida housing market is expected to remain robust over the next 10 years, with opportunities for investment in various sectors, though buyers and investors should be aware of the potential challenges associated with each type of investment.

Sources:

Worthington, M. (2022, September 15). A Changing 2022 Florida Real Estate Market Forecast: What’s Still to Come. HomeLight. Retrieved May 5, 2025 from https://www.homelight.com/blog/florida-real-estate-market-forecast-2022/

 Florida Housing Market. Redfin. Retrieved May 5, 2025 from https://www.redfin.com/state/Florida/housing-market

Florida

Key Real Estate Factors

Navigating the real estate market in 2025 requires preparation and informed decision-making. Here are some key tips for both buyers and sellers:

For buyers:

  • Start the process early and get pre-approved for a mortgage to show you are a serious buyer.

  • Understand that while inventory is expected to improve, competition can still be fierce, especially in markets like Northern California.

  • Be aware that mortgage rates may fluctuate, so it’s wise to lock in a favorable rate when possible.

  • Consider using mortgages geared towards first-time homebuyers and combining them with grants or down payment assistance programs to make homeownership more affordable.

For sellers:

  • List your home during the spring season, particularly in the week of April 13 to April 19, as this could potentially fetch a higher selling price.

  • Ensure your home is in top-notch condition and has an attractive curb appeal, as well-maintained homes and appealing front yards are major features buyers look for.

  • Work with a knowledgeable and experienced real estate agent to set a competitive, market-driven price.

  • Avoid overpricing or underpricing your home; instead, set a price based on comparable properties in your neighborhood.

Both buyers and sellers should:

  • Engage with a real estate agent who understands the local market and can connect you with the right professionals.

  • Be prepared for ongoing negotiations, especially when dealing with appraisal gaps or price reductions.

  • Stay informed about market trends and adjust your strategy accordingly.

By following these tips, you can navigate the 2025 real estate market with confidence and achieve your real estate goals.

Sources:

Rothstein, R. (2025, April 7). Housing Market Predictions For 2025: When Will Home Prices Drop? Forbes. Retrieved April 23, 2025, from https://www.forbes.com/advisor/mortgages/real-estate/housing-market-predictions/

Travel

Sunrise Florida Insights

Sunrise, Florida, is a city in central-western Broward County, known for its mix of residential areas, shopping, and entertainment options. It’s located on the edge of the

Everglades and offers a variety of housing, including gated communities, condos, and single-family homes, according to Homes.com. The city also has a good selection

of restaurants and nightlife options, especially in the East Sunrise area. 

Here’s a more detailed look at some key aspects of living in Sunrise:

Location:

Sunrise is conveniently located in the heart of South Florida, close to major highways and airports, making it well-connected to other parts of the state,

notes Homes.com. 

Housing:

Sunrise offers a range of housing options, from single-family homes in gated communities to condos and townhouses, catering to various lifestyles. 

Recreation:

The city has numerous city parks and walking trails for outdoor recreation, as well as city-sponsored athletic clubs, according to Homes.com. 

Shopping and Entertainment:

Sunrise is home to Sawgrass Mills, one of Florida’s largest shopping malls, and also boasts a variety of dining and entertainment options. 

Schools:

Sunrise is served by the Broward County Public School District, which receives an overall B-plus rating from Niche, states Homes.com. 

Community Events:

Sunrise has a vibrant community with numerous annual events and festivals, according to Homes.com. 

Specific Neighborhoods:

Sources:

About Sunrise, FL. Homes. Retrieved May 11, 2025 from https://www.homes.com/local-guide/sunrise-fl/

Zummo, T. Sunrise Lakes: Sunrise, Florida Homes for Sale. Neighborhoods. Retrieved May 11, 2025 from https://www.neighborhoods.com/sunrise-lakes-sunrise-fl

Florida

Featured Property

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