Ask anyone the first rule of real estate and they’ll likely respond, “location, location, location.” Why is that? Location is critically important because it influences almost every aspect of your property, and it’s the one feature that you truly can’t change.

Whether you’re buying or selling, the first thing you should consider is what the property’s neighborhood has to offer. Buying? The neighborhood’s amenities are the features you’re going to be able to enjoy while you’re living in the area—and they’re also going to help increase or decrease your property’s value over time. Selling? You can use the neighborhood’s offerings to price your home appropriately and highlight them in your listing to attract more buyers.

As a local realtor, I've seen firsthand how certain neighborhood amenities can significantly enhance property value, especially in our unique coastal setting. Let's dive into the top five amenities that make our area not just a fantastic place to live but also a wise investment.

Along the Forgotten Coast, one of the most coveted amenities is direct access to our pristine beaches. These breathtaking stretches of sand offer more than just a beautiful view; they are gateways to a tranquil, beachside lifestyle. Properties with such easy beach access command a premium, attracting buyers and renters who yearn for this idyllic coastal living experience.

But it's not just about proximity to the water. Our beaches are renowned for their unspoiled beauty and cleanliness, offering a safe and serene environment for families, couples, and individuals alike. The beautiful waters and gentle surf provide the perfect backdrop for a variety of activities, from swimming and snorkeling to beachcombing and sunset watching.

Furthermore, properties near the beach often enjoy a unique microclimate with refreshing sea breezes, contributing to a comfortable and invigorating living environment. This accessibility to natural beauty not only enhances the quality of life but also significantly boosts property values. Homes with direct beach access or those within a short walking distance to the shore are highly sought after in the real estate market, making them excellent investments both for personal enjoyment and potential rental opportunities.

In a region surrounded by the waters of the Gulf of Mexico and various inlets, boating and fishing aren't just hobbies; they're a way of life. The availability of facilities like marinas, boat ramps, and private docking options is a significant draw for the area. These amenities cater to a wide range of aquatic activities, from leisurely sailing and motorboating to competitive fishing and serene kayaking.

Properties in close vicinity to these facilities are highly prized, especially among nautical enthusiasts. Having easy access to boating and fishing opportunities is not just a matter of convenience; it enhances the overall living experience by allowing residents to spontaneously enjoy the water without the hassle of long commutes or transportation woes. For fishing aficionados, these facilities mean direct access to some of the best fishing spots in Florida, known for their rich variety of fish species.

Homes with boat docks or near marinas often command higher property values. They appeal not only to permanent residents but also to vacation renters who are looking for an authentic Florida Gulf Coast experience. The allure of being able to dock a boat steps from your home or embark on a fishing trip at a moment's notice is a unique luxury that sets these properties apart in the real estate market.

In essence, the presence of boating and fishing facilities in our communities is a key factor in making them attractive places to live and invest in. They offer a blend of recreation, convenience, and luxury that significantly boosts the appeal and value of nearby properties.

Community centers and clubhouses are more than just amenities; they are the heart of our neighborhoods. These facilities often feature a range of amenities including swimming pools, tennis and pickleball courts, fitness centers, and spaces for social gatherings and events. They provide a central hub for residents to engage in a variety of recreational activities, fostering a vibrant community spirit.

The presence of these community centers enhances the appeal of our neighborhoods, particularly for families and active retirees. They serve as social and recreational anchors, offering a convenient and diverse range of activities right at your doorstep. From yoga classes and book clubs to neighborhood cookouts and holiday celebrations, these centers bring people together, creating a strong sense of belonging and community.

Additionally, properties in close proximity to well-maintained community centers and clubhouses often see an increase in their value. Potential buyers and renters view these facilities as a significant perk, representing a lifestyle that balances private home living with engaging community involvement. This blend of personal and communal spaces not only enriches daily life but also makes our neighborhoods highly desirable places to live.

Our beach communities are not only cherished by year-round residents but are also a hotspot for vacationers. This makes properties with high rental potential extremely valuable. Homes that are well-positioned to cater to short-term beach vacationers often witness a substantial increase in their market value. This is especially true for properties that offer amenities like modern, furnished interiors, updated appliances, outdoor living spaces, and of course, proximity to the beach.

The appeal of a vacation rental in our area is not just about a place to stay; it's about offering an immersive beach experience. Properties that provide amenities such as private pools, easy beach access, outdoor entertainment areas, and views of the stunning coastline are particularly sought after. These features not only enhance the guest experience but also translate into higher rental rates and better occupancy levels.

The flexibility of using these properties as a second home or a vacation rental adds to their allure. Owners can enjoy their beach home during parts of the year and rent it out at other times, making it a versatile and profitable investment. This dual-use capability is particularly attractive to buyers who are looking for a vacation home that can also generate income.

In summary, the rental potential of properties in our beach communities is a significant factor in their appeal and value. By offering a mix of comfort, luxury, and prime location, these properties are not just homes; they are gateways to the quintessential Florida beach experience, coveted by both renters and investors alike.

The proximity to natural preserves and parks, like the acclaimed St. Joseph Peninsula State Park, is a defining feature of our coastal communities. These protected areas are not just breathtakingly beautiful; they are vital for maintaining the area's natural ecology and providing residents and visitors alike with a multitude of outdoor activities. Hiking, bird watching, and paddleboarding in the bay are just a few of the activities these natural havens offer.

The Forgotten Coast boasts an impressive network of walking and biking trails, which weave through diverse landscapes. These trails are more than just pathways; they are an invitation to explore and connect with the natural world, offering both leisurely and challenging routes for all ages and fitness levels.

Properties located near these natural preserves, parks, and trails are highly sought after. They offer a unique lifestyle that combines the serenity of nature with the convenience of modern living. This proximity to natural spaces is particularly appealing to those who value environmental conservation, outdoor recreation, and a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Additionally, these areas are not just for daytime exploration; they often become the backdrop for community events like guided nature walks, educational programs, and star-gazing nights. This integration of community activities with natural settings enriches the cultural fabric of our neighborhoods and adds to the desirability of nearby properties.

In essence, having access to natural preserves, parks, and extensive trail systems is a luxury in itself. It offers residents an unparalleled opportunity to live in harmony with nature while fostering a strong, active community. This blend of natural beauty and community engagement significantly enhances the quality of life and, consequently, the value of homes in these areas.

Living on the Forgotten Coast is about embracing the coastal lifestyle and all the unique amenities it offers. Whether it’s the allure of the beach, the thrill of boating, the community spirit, the lucrative rental market, or the tranquility of natural surroundings, these amenities are what make our homes more than just a place to live – they are investments in a lifestyle. For more information on available properties that feature these incredible amenities, don't hesitate to contact me, your local real estate expert.

Broker/Owner

Explore the top five features that boost home values in the Forgotten Coast communities, including beach access, boating amenities, community spaces, rental opportunities, and natural trails.

5 Key Features That Increase Your Home's Value

What sells a house in 2023? As years change and trends come and go with evolving lifestyles, buyer priorities also fluctuate. What sold a house 10 or even two years ago won’t necessarily be what sells it today. If you’re thinking about selling soon, highlight these sought-after features to make your property stand out in today's competitive real estate market.

In today's real estate landscape, an assumable mortgage has emerged as a true gem for homebuyers. Interest rates are at a 20-year high and they don’t show signs of dropping, so securing affordable financing is a top concern for many prospective homeowners. An assumable mortgage allows a buyer to step into the current homeowner’s shoes and take over the home’s existing mortgage—with its interest rate still intact. This means if you have an assumable loan from just a few years ago, you’re potentially offering an interest rate that’s less than half of the current rate available in the market. That equates to lower monthly payments and massive long-term savings for the buyer, so if you have this feature, be sure to highlight it in your listing.

Not sure if your mortgage is assumable? Contact your lender to find out, and then let your real estate agent know.

2023 is the year of light-infused living spaces. Natural light wins out as the #1 must-have feature across surveys and publications in markets across the country. It makes spaces in your home look and feel larger, airier, and more open—but that’s not all. Beyond aesthetics, abundant natural light has been linked to better mood, increased productivity, and even reduced energy costs.

To captivate buyers, enhance the features in your home that maximize the light light. Expansive windows that frame picturesque views, strategically placed skylights that create a sense of openness, and open floor plans that allow light to flow seamlessly throughout the living areas are all highly desirable. When you’re ready to show your property, ensure that the windows are crystal clean and consider light-toned window dressings. Arrange your furniture in a way that maximizes space and openness in your home, and change your lightbulbs to soft white versions free of dust. Additionally, try to schedule showings during the time of day when your home receives the most natural light, which will depend on its orientation according to the sun.

The desire for outdoor living spaces has reached new heights in 2023. What started as a pandemic trend has become the new normal, with highly usable outdoor spaces at the top of most buyer must-have lists. Buyers now envision their homes as retreats where they can entertain, relax, and connect with the outdoors. That means fenced areas and spacious backyards, comfortable seating, outdoor bars and kitchens, cozy fireplaces, shades and screens, upgraded lighting, integrated sound, beautiful landscaping, and more. Consider enhancing your property's outdoor appeal with these elements, and be sure to highlight them when you go to sell. Having an open house? Make sure you lead your visitors outside with food and drink offerings so they can experience all your property has to offer.

The kitchen, long considered the heart of the home, continues to be a focal point for buyers in 2023. Today’s kitchens must be as beautiful as they are functional, which means integrating on-trend stylistic choices with smart home tech and top-of-the-line appliances. One major must-have on buyer lists? A versatile kitchen island.

An expansive kitchen island with a variety of features can be a game-changer, providing a multifunctional space that serves as the home’s hub of cooking, dining, and socializing. Think of an island with abundant storage, countertop space, and seating for casual meals or conversations. Including features like a built-in sink, dishwasher, and wine cooler can further enhance its functionality and appeal. A well-designed kitchen island not only contributes to the aesthetic appeal of your home but also makes daily living more efficient and enjoyable for prospective buyers.

In 2023, homeowners are increasingly valuing practicality and organization, and the desire for a dedicated laundry room is a clear reflection of this trend. A well-equipped laundry room significantly enhances a home's appeal by offering a designated space for doing laundry. This separation from other living areas keeps the home tidy and provides space for washing, drying, folding, ironing and more—as well as storage for the associated appliances and supplies. If your home doesn’t have a laundry room, you can improve its laundry area by providing separation with room dividers, area rugs, and shelving.

Already have a laundry room? Make sure it’s outfitted with ample storage, generous countertop space, and a utility sink for added convenience. Don’t leave this room looking utilitarian, either. Paint it with soothing hues and choose aesthetically pleasing laundry baskets and accessories. This attention to detail and organization will resonate with buyers, making your laundry room a sought-after feature that will help your property stand out.

Whether you want to sell today or months down the road, we want to hear from you. Our expert team will help you prepare your property and make a game plan so you can sell it for the price you want on the timeline that works for you. 

What sells a house in 2023? As years change and trends come and go with evolving lifestyles, buyer priorities also fluct...

The Features That Sell a Home in 2023

When you’re shopping for a home, you’re likely to visit multiple properties before you find The One. Some people know which house they want to buy from the moment they walk through the door, but for most people, figuring out which home is right for you takes a significant amount of thought and consideration. This process can become more overwhelming the more options you have available to you—but don’t worry.

Simplifying is easy, and you can do it by prioritizing these top three considerations.

The first and most obvious consideration when buying a home is the price. When you’re house hunting, it’s essential to establish a realistic budget and stick to it. While it's tempting to fall in love with a house that stretches your means, overextending yourself can lead to financial stress in the long run.

Determine how much house you can afford based on your income, expenses, and financial goals. Consult with a mortgage lender to get pre-approved for a loan, which will give you a clear understanding of your budget.

Here are some key points to keep in mind regarding the price of a home:

If you’ve found a couple of homes you’re interested in, you’re probably already comparing their prices. But it’s not just whether or not each home fits within your budget. It’s also what they offer for the value. The sticker price of one home might be much higher than the other—but if the cheaper home requires a lot of work, the cost might balance out. Consider your options and measure them against your total budget with the help of an expert real estate agent to make the best choice.

Remember that the purchase price is just one part of the cost of homeownership. You'll also need to budget for property taxes, homeowners' insurance, maintenance, utilities, and if applicable, homeowners association fees. Do some research to figure out the cost of these items in your area, and factor them into your overall budget to avoid any surprises.

The sticker price of a property isn’t always set in stone. You can (and should) work with your real estate agent to negotiate the best possible price using comparable homes in the area and the current market conditions. This is why working with an expert agent is critical—they can offer you detailed insights about your chosen home, location, and market and help you craft the most competitive offer while getting you the best deal. 

Location is often touted as the most critical characteristic of any property, and for a good reason. The neighborhood you choose can significantly impact your quality of life and of course, your property’s future value. The location will also influence other factors on this list, such as the sticker price of your home, HOA rules and fees, and more. Here are some things to consider:

When you imagine yourself living in a home, you should also picture what your day-to-day life looks like. Think about your daily commute to work, school, or other essential destinations. Is this location convenient, or will you spend hours stuck in traffic? Also consider the home’s proximity to public transportation you might want to use, highways, and major roads.

Neighborhood features, factors, and amenities

When considering a home, explore the amenities in its surrounding area, including schools, parks, grocery stores, restaurants, and healthcare facilities. You can use the information to evaluate which home is a better fit for your lifestyle and preferences.

Also consider other neighborhood characteristics such as school districts, flood zones, and crime rates. If any of these will influence your life in a significant way, make sure you factor them into your decision-making process.

Remember that when you buy a home, it’s recommended that you stay living in it for at least two years—and more is better. This is to help you build equity while you pay down your mortgage, and it allows you to not pay capital gains taxes when you sell again.

That means you should be excited to stay in this home’s location for two years or more, and you should also be aware of potential future developments in the area. Areas with planned infrastructure improvements and rising property values may be good long-term investments, but if you prefer an area that’s going to remain relatively the same, you might want to look elsewhere. Additionally, some developments can actually hurt property values if they increase noise or dramatically change the surrounding area’s aesthetic, so do some research before making your decision.

Once you've narrowed down your budget and chosen a desirable location, it's time to focus on the specific features of the home itself. This one seems obvious, but considering a home’s features doesn’t mean that it needs to have every single upgrade under the sun. Instead, consider how its features (including its square footage, number of bedrooms, outdoor space, and much more) meet or do not meet your specific needs.

While you’re comparing homes, think about the size of each one and its layout. Does it accommodate your current needs and potential future changes, such as a growing family or remote work requirements? How many bedrooms and bathrooms do you need? What about flex space? These are the most basic features, but they’re also the most important because they’ll affect most aspects of your daily life.

As mentioned before, a home’s condition will affect both its sticker price and the cost of making it livable down the road. For that reason, you should inspect the property's condition carefully. Even if you’re in the market for a fixer-upper, having a thorough home inspection completed will help uncover hidden issues so you can factor their costs into your budget.

This is when you can get into the bells and whistles. Besides the basic basics, make a list of features that you need to see and want to see in a home before you’ll consider buying it. This can include a certain style of architecture, smart home technology, outside space, types of finishes, and much more. Just try to limit the items on your “must-have” list to features that you absolutely must have. That way, you have the best chance of finding a home that meets your needs within your budget.

Have your list? Now compare the houses you’re looking at to the list and see which one stacks up better.

Now that you know the top three factors to consider when buying a home, you’re ready to get out there—as soon as you have an expert real estate agent at your side. 

When you’re shopping for a home, you’re likely to visit multiple properties before you find The One. Some people know wh...

The Top 3 Things to Consider When Buying a Home

If you’re thinking about buying or selling your home, it's important to know what's going on in your local real estate market.

A good understanding of the most important data, including the average sales price, number of homes sold, and days on market, will better prepare you to enter the real estate market as a competitive buyer or seller.

Here's everything that happened in our real estate market last month.

Curious about how your home's value has changed this year?

We'll gladly prepare a Comparative Market Analysis for you so that you're armed with the most current information about your home. Fill out the form below to get started.

If you’re thinking about buying or selling your home, it's important to know what's going on in your local real estate m...

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5 Key Features That Increase Your Home's Value

The Features That Sell a House in 2023

These are the top 3 things to consider when you buy a home.

The numbers are in!