Castella-The Colony's Gem

Castella, The Colony's Price Leader? Nostalgic feelings reading my notes from an early Castella planning collaborative, I remembered back when it was only but an idea.

We, who had the opportunity to sell high rise homes in The Colony and for the developer, were acutely aware and all in agreement that we needed an alternative to the high rise offering. But what? High rises staked claim to The Colony's premier offering-waterfront property. However, we did have this one large parcel, that was not really appropriate for a high rise...waterfront, surrounded by protected land on all sides. Could there be a new and different Colony neighborhood on the horizon?

Castella was about to be born! Feedback from prospects were submitted to the architect who along with the engineers designed 3 mid-rise buildings surrounding a beautiful resort-style pool, complete with lagoons, spa, and palm trees providing intermittent shade. The unique neighborhood would spread out over many acres and sculpted foliage would line the meandering path leading to the retreat.

Anxiously, this soon-to-be resident was depositing on his future home, pre-construction priced (in other words, discounted), starting at $745,000-1.545,000. Demand was strong.

Castellahad then made her debut. Majestic elevations, a personality all her own. Each building perfectly punctuated with elaborate wrought iron ornaments and front doors. A tidy genteel water feature welcomed as you entered each building. The atriums had far exceeded everyone's expectations soaring stories high...open, inviting.

The lanai spaces were endless, overlooking the beautiful landscape and so close to the Key deer, the vibrant pink color of the Roseate spoonbill. The sunsets were as magnificent as we dreamed. Quiet and perfect. I could hardly wait to bring the new owners in to see their lovely homes.

Unfortunately, a new real estate market also emerged. October of 2006, reservationists came to take possession of their new Castella homes. It was not without investors. People who only wanted to invest in someone else's dream and planned to "flip" the property upon completion.

The less-than-stellar market performance of 2007 had come and gone. The developer, without intention, had become a property manager of more than a couple dozen (now)unsold residences.

I was inspired to write this because I know quite intimately that Castella was never intended to be The Colony's price leader. It is a true gem; rare and unique.

Today Castella residents who paid the premium are neighboring (very fortunate) residents who paid much less. Of 72 residents, only 6 are for sale. And we will all agree, offered far below their intended worth. If you haven't seen it, come take a look and grab one at these unbelievable offerings.

We who love Castella know that beyond the price you pay for something, there is this invaluable serene feeling that overcomes you when family and friends gather around the most beautiful pool setting in The Colony. Enjoying the solitude while sitting on the lanai, observing the surrounding authentic Florida environs that no price could define. Regardless of all the highs and lows of market trends, the dream has been realized.