What 26 Years of Riding Out Hurricanes in Southwest Florida Has Taught Me

Hurricane Preparedness from a Naples Real Estate Advisor Who’s Lived It

After living in Southwest Florida for over 26 years, I’ve seen more than my share of hurricanes. From power outages to storm surge, from watching neighbors rebuild to helping clients navigate post-storm decisions — I’ve experienced it all. Each storm has reinforced one thing: preparation matters, not just during the season but year-round, especially when your home is one of your largest investments.

Whether you're a full-time Naples resident, a seasonal homeowner, or just beginning to explore golf and luxury properties in Florida, here’s what I’ve learned — and what I share with every client I serve.

Know Your Property. Know Your Risk.

Every property in Southwest Florida is different. Some are coastal, some inland. Some communities are newer and storm-hardened; others carry legacy charm with older infrastructure.

From experience, I always recommend:

• Checking your flood zone designation well in advance.

• Reviewing wind mitigation features — roofs, shutters, impact windows.

• Understanding HOA or club-level hurricane protocols if you’re in a gated or golf community.

Knowledge is peace of mind — and an advantage when buying, selling, or insuring a property.

Preparedness Is an Investment, Not a Reaction

Long before any cone of uncertainty appears, I advise my clients (and practice myself):

• Secure essential supplies by early summer.

• Store insurance documents and home inventory photos digitally and physically.

• Clear lanai furniture and check backup generator fuel.

These steps have helped me, and many of my clients, avoid stress when storms do approach — and recover faster when they pass.

Buyers and Sellers: Transparency Builds Trust

I’ve guided many buyers through post-storm purchasing decisions. Those who saw detailed disclosures, recent upgrades, and storm-resilient features felt empowered, not deterred. Sellers, don’t shy away from transparency — your investment in hurricane protection is a premium feature.

A Real Estate Advisor Who’s Weathered the Storms

I don’t just sell homes in Naples — I’ve lived here, through it all. My knowledge of communities that consistently perform well under pressure isn’t something you can Google. It comes from experience — boots on the ground, year after year.

I’ve helped homeowners secure contractors, reviewed policies post-storm, coordinated repairs, and ensured clients out of town had someone they could trust locally.

Final Thought

Hurricane season is part of life in Southwest Florida — but with the right plan, it doesn’t need to disrupt your lifestyle or your real estate goals. If you’re thinking of buying or selling in Naples or the surrounding golf and luxury communities, and you want insight from someone who’s lived through it, I’m here to guide you.

Let’s prepare. Let’s protect. Let’s move forward — with experience on your side.

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Phillip & Spencer Rigsby
Global Real Estate Advisors
Premier Sotheby’s International Realty | Naples, Florida
📞 239.494.2563
🔗 FindingNaples.com