An extensive system of canals and waterways has earned Fort Lauderdale the moniker, "Venice of the Americas." Boaters from around the world flock to Fort Lauderdale, giving the area a cosmopolitan feel. "The growth of Fort Lauderdale by boaters has been driven by its deep-water access to the Atlantic Ocean and beyond," says Julie Jones, Broker Associate with Premier Estate Properties in Fort Lauderdale.

The area's considerable amount of waterways provides ample opportunities to purchase a waterfront property. Original 1950s bungalows reside alongside multi-million dollars estates. Spanish- and Mediterranean-style architecture dominate here, but contemporary home styles can also be found. "The demand for waterfront properties is driven by the size of the buyer's boat, which determines the size of the water frontage needed," says Jones. "For example, an eighty-foot vessel will need a residence with 100-feet of water frontage on a deep-water canal."

Jones' waterways expertise ensures that buyers will find the right property to accommodate their particular vessel. She represents properties ranging from $1-million to $10-million. An example of one of Jones' listings, an entry-level deepwater residence, can be found in the Las Olas section of Fort Lauderdale. The $1.595-million ranch was built in the 1970s and has 100-feet of water frontage.

Los Olas is also home to one of the Fort Lauderdale's most sought-after waterfront properties, a point lot estate located on the Intracoastal Waterway and Rio Placid Canal. "A point lot estate has water on two sides of the property, allowing you to dock your boat on one side and enjoy unobstructed water views on the other," says Jones. "These properties are the most desirable to boaters and there are only fifty in Fort Lauderdale."

The $9.999-million Mediterranean-style estate has over 300-feet of water frontage. Its impressive list of amenities includes a home theater, wine room, and a club room with media and game area as well as a bar.

For more information and photos of this property, click here.