CDD Fees Explained + This Week’s Market Snapshot

by Scott Schilling

I hope your week is going well. Here in SW Florida, the evenings have been perfect for a beach walk, one of those simple reminders why so many people choose to call Southwest Florida home.

Market Snapshot

Inventory across Collier and Lee counties continues to rise, giving buyers more options. Sellers who price right are still seeing strong interest. Mortgage rates are holding steady around 6.5–6.7%, which is helping to keep the market fairly balanced.

Lifestyle Corner

A new dining hotspot has arrived at 2262 First Street—Oise Ristorante. Chef Brad Kilgore blends Italian classics with Japanese flair, serving dishes like truffle sesame carbonara, sushi, and chicken parm katsu.

With lush décor, moody lighting, and creative cocktails, Oise is quickly becoming one of Fort Myers’ most exciting new restaurants. Perfect for a date night or special evening out.

This Week’s Tip

Thinking of selling? Simple updates—like fresh neutral paint or modern light fixtures—can make your home feel move-in ready, often boosting offers by 5–10%.

Did You Know? CDD Fees Explained

If you’ve been exploring newer communities, you’ve likely seen CDD fees listed on property taxes.

A Community Development District (CDD) is how developers fund roads, utilities, landscaping, clubhouses, and other amenities. Instead of being paid upfront, these costs are spread out as an annual fee added to your tax bill.

• Typical range: $1,000–$3,000 per year

• Two parts: a “bond” (loan payoff, usually 20–30 years) and ongoing operations/maintenance

• HOA is separate: most communities still charge HOA fees in addition to the CDD

This chart shows how a home with a lower purchase price but annual CDD fees (Home A) can end up costing almost the same as a slightly higher-priced home without CDD fees (Home B) over a 10-year period. Always look beyond the list price to understand the true cost of ownership.

If you’re unsure how CDD fees or HOA costs affect your budget, let’s talk, I’ll walk you through the numbers so you can make the best decision for your lifestyle and investment.

Curious how your property fits into today’s market?

Use my free online tool to get your instant home valuation.