Estero Island Cottage and Matanzas Pass

My overall opinion of the Estero Island Cottage and Matanzas pass was that it was very beautiful scenery and was a great reflection of the old Fort Myers Beach. The sight that stood out the most was the view at the end of the Matanza Pass, since it was very open and was a great view of the ocean and wildlife.  This view was free of constrictions from businesses and trees.  The local quality of life is being enhanced by the peaceful scenery, and surrounding businesses which bring in revenue.  The several canals are a great way for people to visit this area via boat from various nearby locations.  

 My hometown has changed greatly form what I remember it as a child.  In the past couple of years, the downtown area has been remodeled to look ‘historic’ and an old fashion theme has been put into place.  I will always feel a sense of community there since I have lived there all my life, and it is very small town where everyone knows each other.  All of the local businesses in the town are family owned, and have been the same as long as I can remember.  If a developer offered me 300% of the market value of my childhood home to develop it into condos, I would be very torn.  Although there are a lot of memories in my childhood home, many of the homes in my neighborhood are very old and need several upgrades to keep up with the changing times.  Putting money into an old home may not be worth it with the housing market being so low, and purchasing a new home may be most cost beneficial. 

 If the county approached me about purchasing the land under the 20/20 program, for 80% of its market value I would most likely decline the offer.