Gulf Coast Real Estate and Community News

Oct. 11, 2019

October Events

Some would say that October is the best time of year on the Gulf Coast. The weather is cooler, the water is still warm, and there are so many things to DO!
Here are just a few of the events going on in the
Perdido Key area in October. We hope to see you there!
Gulf Shores Shrimp Festival
If you are in town THIS weekend, don't miss the 48th Annual National Shrimp Festival in Gulf Shores, AL! There is plenty of food, vendors, and entertainment...and of course SHRIMP! This event is the highlight of the year so don't miss it!
Greek Festival
The 60th Pensacola Greek festival is happening on October 11-13th at the Greek Orthodox Church. There is plenty of traditional greek food, dancing, and culture to enjoy and admission is always free!
Pensacola Interstate Fair
Happening from October 19th-29th, the Pensacola Interstate Fair features big rides, games, food, and fun for all! Located at the Interstate Fair Grounds, and don't miss the super saver discount days!
Tailgate on the Key
The local hangout - The Perdido Key Sports Bar, is hosting the 6th Annual Tailgate on the Key! The event will be Friday, October 18th-19th. Come out and enjoy a cook off competition, games, vendors and live music!
Posted in Community News
Sept. 12, 2019

Buyer's and Seller's Guides

Our Fall Buyer's and Seller's Guides
Get Yours Now!
The process of buying or selling a home can be overwhelming at times, but you don't need to go through it alone!
Our FREE Guides will answer many of your questions and likely bring up a few things you haven't even thought about yet. Just click the guide below to read it now or download for later!
     
Along with these helpful guides, we have many other resources for buyers and sellers on our website. From market reports, useful videos, powerful property searches, and even community news!
Aug. 30, 2019

Outdoor Kitchens

Outdoor Kitchens -
a Popular Feature!

 

 

The appeal of outdoor living continues to be important to homeowners, and the outdoor kitchen is at the center of that. The latest American Institute of Architects Home Design Trends Survey shows that outdoor kitchens are among the most wanted kitchen features in new architectural projects.

Best Outdoor
Kitchen Features
Grilling Station
This is, after all, what it's all about! The options are endless. Choose based on your tendencies and preferences.
Fire Pit
A Fire Pit creates a cozy place to gather and unwind. A welcome addition to any outdoor space.
TVs
It's football season! What's better than grilling and watching the big game? Choose a TV that's rated for outdoor use and can withstand the elements.
The VIEW
Being on the coast, we love our water views! Give your outdoor kitchen a terrific view to top it off!

 

Posted in Homeownership
Aug. 23, 2019

Does Your Home Need A Touchup?

4 Areas Of Your Home That Likely Need A Touch-Up

With a little bit of preventative maintenance, you can ensure that your home remains beautiful and efficient for years to come. Here are several areas of your home that are likely in need of some attention:

 

Roof
A well-constructed roof should last for at least 30 years, but the shingles will need some maintenance before that. Shingles and tiles should be replaced if they are cracked, bent, or curling. Any metal flashing that is bent or warped should be replaced as well. This will not only keep up the appearance, but can also prevent serious water damage.
Exterior Walls
A fresh coat of paint can have a huge impact! Although painting your own home may seem like a good way to keep under budget, hiring a professional with the correct tools and expertise will pay off in the long run. Many contractors guarantee their work as well.
Front Door
You can paint your front door yourself - and in only a few hours! If you plan on selling your home in the near future, stick to a neutral color that matches the trim. Be sure to use an exterior sealant to extend the life of the paint.
Windows
To increase your homes efficiency, modern windows are a must! Older windows can become warped and allow for air to escape. New windows can last for decades and can boost a home's appearance.
front-door.jpg
It's always a good idea to research all local building codes to determine if a permit is required for a home renovation project. Most cosmetic renovations don't require any permits, however, it is always a good idea to check to avoid huge fines and fees.

 

Posted in Homeownership
Aug. 16, 2019

Buyer and Seller Guides

What Should You Consider When Buying or Selling a Home?

Read Our FREE Guides to Find Out!

The process of buying or selling a home can be overwhelming at times, but you don't need to go through it alone!
We put together a FREE Guide for you that will answer many of your questions and likely bring up a few things you haven't even thought about yet. Just click the guide below to read it now!
     
Along with these helpful guides, we have many other resources for buyers and sellers on our website. From market reports, useful videos, powerful property searches, and even community news!

 

 

Aug. 9, 2019

Inventory in the Current Market

The current housing landscape presents greater home values, low interest rates, and high buyer demand. All of these factors point to the strong market forecast to continue throughout the rest of the year.
There is, however, one thing that may cause the industry to tap the brakes: an overall lack of housing inventoryBuyer demand naturally increases during the summer months, but the current supply is not keeping up.
Here is a look at what a few industry experts
have to say:
“Imbalance persists for mid-to-lower priced homes with solid demand and insufficient supply, which is consequently pushing up home prices.”
“Market conditions are ripe for increasing home sales with one glaring exception. The supply of homes for sale remains tight, keeping existing home sales below potential.”
“We're not seeing as many new listings come up on the market…It was only 18 months ago that the number of homes for sale hit its lowest level in recorded history and sparked the fiercest competition among buyers we've ever seen.”
Bottom Line
If you’re thinking of selling, now may be the time. Demand for your condo or home will be strong during a period when there is very little competition, ideally leading to a quick sale and a great return on your investment.
Low inventory across Perdido Key/ Orange Beach/ Gulf Shores has been at historic levels going on 2 years. There does not seem to be any change in the near future. Ideal time to sell!
Sellers! Click the link below for additional information on the current market and guides to selling your home!
Aug. 2, 2019

Home Improvement ROI

Thinking of remodeling?
Remodeling Magazine's newly-released report of
Cost Vs. Value shows that the average return on investment (ROI) for home improvement projects dipped across the board. Check out the statistics below on different projects. You may be surprised!
Greatest ROI in "Midrange" Category:
Manufactured Stone Veneer 
(97.1% ROI)
  • Average Cost: $8,221
  • Average Resale Value: $7,986
Entry Door Replacement (Steel) 
(91.3% ROI)
  • Average Cost: $1,471
  • Average Resale Value: $1,344
Deck Addition (Wood) 
(82.8% ROI)
  • Average Cost: $10,950
  • Average Resale Value: $9,065
Minor Kitchen Remodel 
(81.1% ROI)
  • Average Cost: $21,198
  • Average Resale Value: $17,193

Greatest ROI in "Upscale" Category:

Garage Door Replacement 
(98.3% ROI)
  • Average Cost: $3,470
  • Average Resale Value: $3,411
Window Replacement (Vinyl) 
(74.3% ROI)
  • Average Cost: $15,955
  • Average Resale Value: $11,855
Window Replacement (Wood) 
(69.5% ROI)
  • Average Cost: $19,391
  • Average Resale Value: $13,468
Grand Entrance (Fiberglass) 
(67.6% ROI)
  • Average Cost: $8,591
  • Average Resale Value: $5,809

Lowest ROI in the "Midrange" Category:

Backyard Patio (47.6% ROI)
  • Average Cost: $54,130
  • Average Resale Value: $25,769
Master Suite Addition (56.6% ROI)
  • Average Cost: $123,420
  • Average Resale Value: $69,807
Major Kitchen Remodel (59% ROI)
  • Average Cost: $63,829
  • Average Resale Value: $37,637
Bathroom Addition (59.9% ROI)
  • Average Cost: $44,717
  • Average Resale Value: $26,769

Lowest ROI in the "upscale" Category:

Master Suite Addition (48.3% ROI)
  • Average Cost: $256,229
  • Average Resale Value: $123,797
Major Kitchen Remodel (53.5% ROI)
  • Average Cost: $125,721
  • Average Resale Value: $67,212
Bathroom Addition (54.6% ROI)
  • Average Cost: $83,869
  • Average Resale Value: $45,752
Bathroom Remodel (56.2% ROI)
  • Average Cost: $61,662
  • Average Resale Value: $34,633

Sellers! Click HERE for additional information on staging, upgrades, and ROI details!

July 28, 2019

New 3D Technology

Posted in Buying a Home
July 26, 2019

Labor Day Happenings

 

As we approach the end of Summer - we prepare for the kids to go back to school, and the days get shorter. But there is still plenty to do in the Perdido area! Check out these events going on the last Summer holiday of the year - Labor Day!

OWA Labor Day Car Show
OWA will play host to decades of unique and classic cars from 8am-4pm, Aug. 31. From hot rods to custom builds, OWA’s Labor Day Car Show is bound to have something that catches your eye! Dozens of beautifully crafted cars will line the streets of Downtown OWA.
Gulf Coast Summer Fest
Jazz Edition
Gulf Coast Summer Fest Jazz Edition is eight hours of contemporary smooth jazz on the water at the Pensacola Community Maritime Park in Pensacola. This is an outdoor event wherein you are allowed to bring your coolers, lawn chairs and umbrellas. This event is held on Saturday, September 2nd before Labor Day.
Flora-Bama Sunset Beach Concert Tour - Justin Moore
The Sunset Beach Concert Series starts on Labor Day with Justin Moore and Easton Corbin in concert on September 1st. Get your ticlets early to enjoy a beach concert unlike any other. Tickets can be purchased through the Flora-Bama.

 

Posted in Community News
July 22, 2019

Best Time To Buy A Vacation Rental

When is the Best Time to Buy a Vacation Rental?

... NOW!
VRBO has determined that the best time for purchasing a vacation rental to maximize the annual earning potential is in August!
“This is the time of year when many people are wrapping up their summer trips and wishing they had a vacation home of their own to return to next year,” says Bill Furlong, vice president of Vrbo, Americas. “While August may not follow traditional trends of the real estate calendar, it’s the perfect time to buy and make all preparations by January to take advantage of the overwhelming traveler demand to book next year’s spring and summer trips.”
155 days is suggested to allow the buyer to shop, purchase, and prepare the property to rent. See the timeline below: