Just Sold! Wendwood • Unit C1

Sold after only 5 days on the market! 

You'll find this cozy townhome style condo tucked away in the quiet beach community of Wendwood. This desirable 2 bed 2.5 bath corner unit is fully furnished. The main living area, dining, half bath with laundry closet, and kitchen are on the first level. A back patio allows for grilling and relaxing. Upstairs find two master suites each with attached baths. Each master suite has its own private and spacious balcony made to enjoy a sunrise or sunset and take in the sea breeze. The community has a private pool for owners and guests. Just a walk across the street you'll find a beach access. This unit makes a wonderful getaway or investment property. Paradise!

What did our seller have to say about working with us?

" I would highly encourage anyone looking to buy or sell a property in the Panama City Beach/Destin area, to give Jay and his team the opportunity to serve you. Their knowledge of the area and property prices had my property in a contract within 3 days, got almost asking price, lived 300 miles away, always available to answer questions, and explain things. I would definitely deal with them again and recommend to anyone looking to buy or sell......... Thanks again! "

Click here to see a video tour!

New Listing: Seagrove Highlands Unit 1102

We started off this week with a new listing at Seagrove Highlands in Seagrove Beach! 

Monday was spent shooting photos of the spectacular unit and community, and we couldn't have asked for better weather. Blue skies, sunshine, and amazing breeze. This is an incredible February!

The community of Seagrove Highlands is perfectly tucked away off of 30A. As you turn onto Somerset Bridge Road you're led to the private and gated entrance. It's quiet and relaxing as you drive along Lake Mira. The grounds are incredible well kept and the quiet rustle of the palms as you walk into your building remind you why you love Florida so much. The building itself is pleasing to look at, clean lines with beach cottage characteristics. Each unit has a screened-in patio or balcony, perfect to enjoy morning coffee or sunset views. Open hallways lead you to each unit. As you enter the north end of the south building on the ground level you're led to Unit 1102... 

As you enter you'll notice the beautiful décor- warm and inviting. Travertine floors will lead you to the 2 guest bedrooms each located on either side of the entrance. A full bath is located off the hall.

Continue into the unit to find the exquisite kitchen with gorgeous granite countertops, plentiful cabinet space, and stainless steel appliances.

The kitchen overlooks the bright and comfortable living area which features double doors that lead to the screened-in patio with wood paneled ceilings giving the area a warm and luxurious feel. A perfect place to relax. 

Just off the living area you'll find the master bedroom, spacious and calming, with an attached master bath. The master bath features double sinks, garden tub, separate shower, and closet space.

  

Seagrove Highlands amenities include a community pool, private and gated. Within the pool area enjoy the lounge chairs and umbrellas, or use the lakeside grills to cook

up some dinner from a day spent fishing. You can access the community room from the pier overlooking Lake Mira. A truly serene place to take in. Just a short walk or bike ride will bring you to a beach access just across the end of Somerset Bridge Road, where you'll be able to dip your toes in the emerald green waters and sink your feet in the sugar white sand.

Close to all the things that make 30A so popular: 

• Lakes 

• Beaches

• Bike and nature trails

• Choose from shopping  entertainment, or eateries in SEASIDE, Rosemary Beach, or The Hub 

Seagrove Highlands is in the middle of it all, while tucked away from it all.  

This unit is currently used as a second home, and it's no wonder, as it has a warm and inviting feel that allows you to feel away from it all. It would also make an excellent investment property as it is projected to gross $30-35k in rentals. 

Whether a main home, second home, or investment - you can't go wrong with Seagrove Highlands. 

Want to see more info - Click here!    

January Sales Market Highlights

The numbers are in for January sales statistics! We're off to a great start this year. The market is still quite active this winter rolling right on into spring. 

Last year the Emerald Coast hit a record in tourism -June alone was a 13% increase from 2015- making our area a hot spot for investing in real estate. 

We're proud to say the sale of our listing at 117 Gulf Shore Drive was the highest sale in the area of 30A West! 

This is great time to perform some due diligence regarding purchasing property. We are getting a new influx of inventory daily. Some great opportunities are out there right now. The daily hot sheet has new listings hitting the market every day. Let us know if you would like to receive updates on the market!

Here are some additional market highlights for the month of January: 

The highest priced condo sold within the areas of Okaloosa Island, Destin, Sandestin, Miramar Beach, and 30A was: 

One Water Place • Unit 1112

$1,210,000

3 Bed/ 3.5 Bath

3,415 Square Feet                                                                                    

The highest priced home sold within the areas of Okaloosa Island, Destin, Sandestin, Miramar Beach, and 30A was: 

12 South Headland Avenue

$9,400,000

5 Bed/6 Bath/2 Half Bath

5,894 Square Feet                                                                                    

Local Events: Weekend of Feb 17th-19th

28th Annual Sandestin Gumbo Festival 

Friday, February 17 - Saturday, February 18th 

Purchase Tickets Here!

The Sandestin Gumbo Festival has been known as one of the largest and most popular winter food events along Florida’s Emerald Coast.  

CRAWFISH BOIL KICK-OFF PARTY

Friday, February 17th starting at 5 p.m.

Mark your calendars for our official kickoff for the Sandestin Gumbo Festival from 5-7pm at Hammerhead’s Bar and Grill. $15 per plate at the door.

THE MAIN EVENT

Saturday, February 18th starting at 12 p.m.

This winter festival favorite is back for the 28th Annual Sandestin Gumbo Festival.  Sample a variety of gumbo and vote your favorite as the “People’s Choice” winner! Dark or light roux? Chicken, sausage or seafood? Celebrity judges will name the “Area’s Best.” Gulf Coast restaurants will be featured along with live music and children’s activities.

Valentine Tour Of Homes

Saturday, February 18 • 10am – 4pm & Sunday, February 19 • 12pm – 4pm

Purchase Tickets Here!

Fall in love with some of South Walton's most adorable, stunning, artistic, and unique homes.

The month of February typically means romantic dinners and flowers for most, but for South Walton residents and visitors alike, it also signals the highly anticipated annual Valentine Tour of Homes. The tour is known for showcasing stunning interiors, architecturally acclaimed homes and picturesque settings bringing inspiration to tour goers winter weekend at the beach.

Guests will enjoy a self-guided tour of a variety of homes throughout South Walton and will also be introduced to some of the Alliance’s member artists whose work is featured in each of the homes. All net proceeds benefit the Alliance’s Art For All Program, which provides support to Walton County schools, teachers, students, artists and arts organizations to further arts education in the community.

So come fall in love with some of South Walton's most interesting homes while raising funds for the CAA's "Art For All" Program.

30A YOLO Bike Ride 

Saturday, February 18 • 8:30 am

If fresh air and exercise are your thing, check out the 30A YOLO Bike Ride!

The 30A YOLO Bike & Beach Club has officially launched, bringing locals of all skill levels together for some laid-back exploration of South Walton’s natural habitats.

Group bike rides are free and take place every Saturday!

Participants meet at the YOLO Bike + Beach Store in Gulf Place at 8:30 a.m. The ride through the trails of Point Washington State Forest leaves at 9 a.m. All skill levels and bike brands are welcome (“ride what ya got!”). Bikes are available for rent. Even if you don’t want to ride, join in for coffee and fun!

Looking Online for Real Estate?

Do you find yourself checking out real estate online even if you are not currently in the market to buy or to sell? Well, you are not alone! We Americans have become addicted to searching for everything online, and real estate has a certain allure. It provides shelter for us, and it can help us build wealth.

A recent Google survey found that Americans spend an average of 55 minutes per online visit looking at real estate via phone apps. These are not just people actively looking to purchase or to sell; these are people just generally interested in real estate locally and nationally.

Here are some of the interesting facts discovered in this study:

• 69% of the respondents describe online real estate searches as "fun." 

• Three years is the average time frame that consumers start looking online before they actually buy.

• Only one in five people looking for real estate online are looking to buy at that time.

  

Buying real estate is usually a long process with certain detailed due diligence. Keep surfing sites for listing and market information. When you are ready to get serious, find a competent and energetic local realtor who will bring current facts to the table and help you, interpret the data, negotiate the deal, and navigate the entire process.

 The Sold in Paradise Team is your "feet on the street." Let us know when you are ready to buy or sell.

Top 10 Selling Condos of 2016

The past year was a great sales year for our area. Condo sales are booming, and it's no surprise considering we have some of the most gorgeous beaches that make Destin and the surrounding areas a popular destination for all and a perfect place for real estate investors.  

We've gathered the stats for the most popular areas of Destin, Sandestin, Miramar Beach and 30A. Here are the top 10 selling condos of 2016...

#1 Ariel Dunes

Located in Seascape Golf and Tennis Resort, a gated community offering amenities such as convenient beach access, golf, tennis, pools and a conference center in an amazing location near shopping and dining. Enjoy breathtaking views of the Gulf of Mexico and Choctawhatchee Bay from the two tallest towers in this area. A popular vacation destination makes Ariel Dunes a great investment property, it's no wonder it was #1 with 54 sales! 

#2 Sandpiper Cove

Sandpiper Cove occupies 43 acres in the heart of Destin, with borders including the Gulf of Mexico to the South and the Destin Harbor to the West. Amenities include 1,100 feet of beachfront with a seasonal beach bar & grill as well as seasonal beach service, five pools, six tennis courts, marina, famous Louisiana Lagniappe Restaurant, and a nine hole par three pitch and putt golf course. Great long-term or vacation rentals. Sandpiper Cove comes in at a close #2 with 53 sales!  

#3 Pelican Beach Resort

One of Destin’s top favorite family resorts, Pelican Beach Resort overlooks the world-famous white-sand beaches and the Gulf of Mexico in the heart of the Destin. Style and hospitality are the hallmarks here. Owners and guests of Pelican Beach can enjoy a plethora of amenities including a choice of three pools, a spa, fitness center, conference center, poolside beach bar, deli, tennis courts, covered garage parking, game center and even more! A prime vacation spot makes for another great investment opportunity. Pelican Beach Resort comes in at #3 with 34 sales!  

#4 The Palms of Destin Resort & Conference Center 

A fantastic resort, The Palms offers all the amenities a buyer could ask for including an expansive 11,000 square foot lagoon pool with waterfalls and bridges, a children's pool and splash fountain, restaurant and lounge, conference center, spa, lighted tennis courts, basketball court, jogging trail, BBQ grill area, exercise room, covered parking and security. Or hop on the private shuttle and be transported to the white sand beaches of Destin. The Palms is a family friendly resort located in the middle of everything to do in Destin - dining, shopping, golf, recreational activities, the harbor and of course the gorgeous white sand beaches of the gorgeous Emerald Coast! The Palms comes in at #4 with 32 sales!

#5 Majestic Sun

Majestic Sun is a beautiful condo known for the giant archway that connects two buildings of gulf front units. A neighbor to #1 Ariel Dunes, Majestic sun is also part of popular Seascape Resort. Offering owners and guests spectacular amenities including a heated indoor/outdoor pool, 2 whirlpool hot tubs, a fitness center, an 18-hole championship golf course, tennis courts, nature trail, fresh water lakes, beachside bar and grill, as well as 2,000 feet of beachfront. Coming in at #5 with 31 sales is Majestic Sun!

#6 Silver Shells 

Five buildings comprise the luxurious estate of Silver Shells. This exclusive condo offers spectacular amenities including 1,100 feet of gorgeous beach front with the option of beach chair and umbrella rentals, a tiki bar and grill, tropical lagoon swimming pool featuring a stunning waterfall, hot tub, wading pool, children’s playground, and grill area. Lush tropical foliage, green lawns, and shady arbors transform the grounds into an exceptionally beautiful resort destination. The Club at Silver Shells offers basketball, tennis courts, heated indoor/outdoor pool with hot tub, cardio and weight rooms, locker rooms, and steam room/sauna. Indulge in a date night at Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse- located right on the property. Coming in at #6 with 30 sales is Silver Shells!

#7 TIE!

Alerio

Alerio is one of the newest luxury condos located in popular Miramar Beach just across from the Gulf of Mexico. Consisting of 5 separate buildings and complete with a community pool, a community hot tub, a grilling area, a splash pad for children. Alerio brings luxury and affordability to the table making sure to be a favorite of vacationers or those looking for a second home. 

Beachside at Sandestin

The 2 towers making up Beachside are part of the exclusive private vacation community of Sandestin Golf & Beach Resort, an expansive property with miles of jogging, biking, and walking trails in addition to 4 championship golf courses. Beachside offers a seasonally heated pool, fitness center, plenty of sandy white beach and emerald water. Located within this Destin resort enjoy the charming Village of Baytowne Wharf, complete with fine dining, shopping, casual restaurants and entertaining nightlife. 

At a tie for #7 with 24 sales each are Alerio and Beachside at Sandestin!

#8 Village of South Walton 

 

The perfect vacation getaway to spend your days lounging around the community pool, enjoying restaurants, and quaint shopping boutiques that are just a short walk away. A highlight is being close to popular Rosemary Beach, known for awesome attractions and family-friendly activities. A tram service is available to deliver you to your choice of a 12,000 square foot lagoon pool at nearby Seacrest Beach, amphitheater, and park and bike trail. Coming in at #8 with 22 sales is Village of South Walton!   

#9 TIE!

Luau

Comprised of 2 buildings Luau is one of the newest resorts within Sandestin. Architecturally pleasing and wonderful amenities including a lagoon pool with waterfall feature, outdoor dining area set beneath a pergola, grill area, and beach access located 250 yards away, make Luau a favorite second home or vacation rental. Also enjoy the unbeatable amenities of Sandestin Golf & Beach Resort including miles of jogging, biking, and walking trails in addition to 4 championship golf courses, and the charming Village of Baytowne Wharf, complete with fine dining, boutique shopping, casual restaurants and entertaining nightlife. 

Sterling Shores

Sterling Shores is a beautiful property featuring a private movie theater, an expansive lagoon style pool with mushroom water fountains, as well as an additional beachside pool. Located in the heart of Destin close to many restaurants and popular attractions such as Big Kahunas, The Track, and popular Harborwalk Village full of fun and restaurants for the whole family. 

SunDestin Resort

An amazing Gulf front property offering both an indoor and outdoor pool, hot tub, fitness room, beach bar, courtyard, picnic area, bar & grill, pizza parlor, convenience store, video game room, meeting facilities and beach service. Best of all the gorgeous beachfront to play on. A family favorite year after year makes this a popular destination for all. 

At a tie for #9 with 19 sales each are Luau, Sterling Shores, and SunDestin Resort!

#10 Jetty East

Jetty East is a small, gated Gulf front resort community conveniently located just a mile and a half from the bustle of Highway 98 where you can find fantastic restaurants, a plethora of shopping, and attractions for everyone in the family including popular Harborwalk Village. 900 feet of beachfront brings endless enjoyment and adventures. Enjoy the short walk to the Jetty bordering the East Pass where you can fish, snorkel, watch the coming and going of the boats, or just sit and contemplate all the beauty that abounds here. Coming in at #10 with 18 sales is Jetty East!