The Naples Charm: Massive mansions going up next to humble abodes

Getting rid of the old, making room for the new. Large mansions will soon fill lots once home to smaller humble abodes.

Ranch style one-story homes sit across the street from recently built mansions in areas of North Naples.

Naples Area Board of Realtors President Jeff Jones says this trend of leveling and building is because demand is high for prime real estate, especially near the water where space is sparse, “Buy the house — a lot — buy the lot tear it down and build what they want”

He says construction sites like these are becoming more of a common sight in some Naples neighborhoods. Adding that homebuyers and builders are doing away with the old, and bringing in the newer and bigger.

“Lifestyles back in the 50s 60s and 70s were different. People want larger bathrooms they want more accommodations, a place for grandkids” Jones said.

The Park Shore neighborhood is a canvas of rooftops of all shapes and sizes.

Jones says the older homes aren’t being hurt by this new building trend. In fact, it helps them.

Homeowners are seeing an appreciation in their property values.

Despite their size, the newer homes still comply with all zoning guidelines and setbacks.

The patchwork of old and new is one of the many things that makes the Naples community charming.