The city of Fort Myers is situated on the southwest coast of Florida, and serves as the seat of Lee County. Fort Myers had its beginnings as a base during the Seminole Indian Wars of the 19th century, and it was named in honor of Colonel Abraham C. Myers, the son-in-law of the commander of Tampa’s Fort Brooke. The base remained in use on and off throughout the Civil War, but after its culmination, the fort was disassembled and the town’s first residents used the wood in the construction of the buildings that would serve as the foundation of downtown Fort Myers. The settlement’s early economy thrived on agriculture, cattle, and logging, and before long Fort Myers had a booming population. The area was attractive to many people as a winter vacation destination; one of Fort Myers’ most famous residents—Thomas Edison--was among this group. Edison built his home, Seminole Lodge, on the banks of the Caloosatchee River. Among his many achievements, he was very influential in the development of Fort Myers, particular in its beautification. One example is when he and his wife, Mina, helped to bring about the import of Royal Palm trees, which were planted up and down what is now McGregor Blvd. The trees became a symbol of the city, and led to Fort Myers’ nickname as “the City of Palms.”

Throughout the years, Fort Myers has continued to be a desirable location for vacationers and year-round residents of all ages. The region’s laid back “old Florida” atmosphere, warm and sunny climate, lush tropical landscapes, and waterfront views are a perfect combination for comfortable and luxury living. Fort Myers caters to those who love the outdoors. Aside from the miles of sandy beaches, one of the region’s many attractions is its high number of golf courses; Fort Myers and its surrounding areas are home to over 50 renowned public and private courses. Fort Myers also maintains the Calusa Nature Center and Planetarium, which upholds a museum, three nature trails, butterfly and bird aviaries, and a planetarium on a site of 105 acres.

Taking into account Fort Myers’ mild climate, natural beauty and calming atmosphere, it is no wonder that over 60,000 people call the city their home. For those who wish to relocate to Fort Myers, the city’s real estate market offers a variety of housing options at affordable prices. Real estate in Fort Myers includes high rise condominiums, magnificent waterfront homes, gated communities and modest single family houses. And with an attainable average home price between $200,000 and $250,000, buying a home in Fort Myers is appealing to people from all walks of life, whether you are a single professional, a new parent, or an empty nester. If you are in the market for pre-constructed homes in Fort Myers, the city is expanding with many new residential developments that will add more than 8,000 new homes to the area. And for the discerning homebuyer, there is plenty of room in Fort Myers for custom home building, making it easier than ever to own that tropical getaway that is made just for you. When you buy a home in Fort Myers, FL, every day will be a vacation!

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