After extremely strong performances for the past several years, Naples and Southwest Florida have maintained strength in home and commercial property sales and prices. This in spite of the slowing US economy and the September 11 disaster. Our area continues to outpace most regions in the country and was Number 2 in the USA behind Las Vegas in residential growth. The fall in stock prices after the peak in March of 2000 led to less available cash for speculation, but also to a renewed interest in real estate investment. Real Estate continues to prove to be a long term value building investment and less volatile vis-a-vis stocks. Demand for real estate here is strong, although speculation has been dampened by the above macroeconomic factors. Particularly baby boomers are exerting demand pressure as they continue to retire to the sun as well as purchase vacation and future retirement properties. Favorable interest rates are also a positive influence as more buyers can finance higher valued properties. In summary well advised investments in Southwest Florida Real Estate will continue to bring favorable returns. Doug DeCaster Naples, Florida Give me a call at 941-348-7942