by Karen Kauffman
The Useppa Island Butterfly Society began several years ago,
when the island donated a sandy and unbuildable 1/3 acre to the care of
volunteer islanders for a butterfly sanctuary. Six years later, we see
significantly more and varied butterflies fluttering in the warm sun. We find
eggs the size of pencil points, as well as understand why leaves disappear
overnight as caterpillars munch through them. These are all signs that the
butterflies approve of our efforts!
Butterflies alight on almost any flower for nectar. However,
each butterfly species selects a very specific host plant for laying its eggs,
and can detect them from as far as five miles away. This is the same plant
these butterflies-turned-caterpillars will use for food.
So, what began as simply planting pretty flowers, has turned
into spread sheets to cross reference nectar versus host plants, in the correct
proportion, to successfully attract less migratory butterflies, while
attracting more that will happily reside with us for generations.
Of the many butterflies, we have our favorites. Black and
yellow Swallowtails search out Dutchman’s Pipevine (which can grow over a foot
a day) as visiting butterflies lay clusters of yellow eggs. When hatched, these
larva/caterpillars quickly devour the vine’s dense foliage that has hidden them
so well.
Orange Gulf Fritillary’s tiny tan eggs are found on the
underside of Lady Margaret Passion Vine. The “hatched” orange caterpillars then
travel in packs, voraciously eating the vine before curling up into a chrysalis
from which a beautiful butterfly will emerge.
The most rewarding aspect of caring for the garden is
sharing it with visitors of all ages. The Butterfly Garden encapsulates what
life on Useppa is about. Creating a place of beauty, wonder, refuge and
learning, while relaxing and sharing a space with family, friends and those who
wander the island. All are welcome here! Discover Useppa Island
524 Useppa Island - Just Listed
Located in the southern and quiet cove of Useppa Village, enjoy captivating water views to the Useppa yacht basin and beyond. Hurricane-fortified from the party-wall to the windows, this light-filled attached Villa island escape provides quality materials indoors and out, 3 bedrooms and 2 baths. $575,000 Property Details
Featuring private decks from the bedrooms, along with an updated kitchen and baths in the open plan surrounded by tropical foliage.
A sturdy HardiePlank exterior and maintenance-free decking keep your waterfront lifestyle easy. Complete with updated systems of electrical and plumbing, hurricane-resistant doors and windows, garage, paver drive and walkways, community dock and unsurpassed amenities
Pure magnificence and built to exacting standards. Boasting breathtaking views across Pine Island Sound, arched windows, stunning hardwood flooring, a sweeping staircase and soaring ceilings. Enjoy an exceptional escape with Tuscan-inspired furnishings included, 3 bedrooms, 3.5 baths and over 3,200 sq. ft. Property Details
This waterfront paradise is graced with fine finishes throughout, waterfront terraces and a generous private dock for up to 40 foot craft. Tour Useppa Island
You’ve dreamed and planned for owning a second home. Imagine enjoying vacations whenever you want, entertaining family and friends, and creating a home away from home.
There are many good reasons for owning a second home. Before you take that step, there are some considerations for your careful planning.
First, many second home/vacation home owners take the steps to improve family time and take a break from their hectic daily schedules. Booking reservations and the overall cost for vacation time can mount quickly. Often times, a vacation home purchase simplifies the vacation process, while offering an opportunity to build a legacy for a lifetime.
A second home creates a gathering place where new traditions are born. And, as Mark Patterson notes on the “U.S. News & World Report” website, that family vacation home may eventually become your family legacy.
Buying that second home in a location where you desire to retire provides wonderful vacation opportunities and allows you to establish community ties that make for a smooth transition down the road. A “trial run” if you will, with the opportunity to build friendships and immerse yourself in local activities. What better way to determine if this is the place to spend your retirement years?
Though you may not want to rent your vacation home when you’re away, financial benefits may still be available.
Modest appreciation over the years, along with some tax benefits, make the option even more appealing.
Lastly, second homes, like relationships, need TLC. When considering your second home purchase, make sure you know your options for maintaining your home, but remember your friends and family for that emotional ROI. Making Memories...Priceless.
Make your escape to Useppa Island.
Paradise Without A Passport!
New neighbors arrive just in time for the Holidays. 214 Useppa Island just sold.
Every year at this time, many homeowners decide to wait until after the holidays to put their homes on the market for the first time, while others who already have their homes on the market decide to take them off until after the holidays.
Here are six great reasons not to wait:
Relocation buyers are out there. Companies are not concerned with holiday time and if the buyers have kids, they want them to get into school after the holidays.
Purchasers that are looking for a home during the holidays are serious buyers and are ready to buy.
You can restrict the showings on your home to the times you want it shown. You will remain in control.
Homes show better when decorated for the holidays.
There is less competition for you as a seller right now.
Let’s take a look at listing inventory as compared to the same time last year:
The supply of listings increases substantially after the holidays. Also, in many parts of the country, new construction will continue to surge reaching new heights in 2017, which will lessen the demand for your house.
Bottom Line
Waiting until after the holidays to sell your home probably doesn't make sense.
