Just Sold | Harbor Lights 313 | Destin, FL

2 Bed  |  2 Bath  |  1,390 Square Feet  |  Selling Price: $485,000

This has been quite an exciting listing for us to work on! After placing the unit on the market we immediately got an offer for the full asking price and officially had it under contract in just nine days. Shortly after, we were contacted by the producer of HGTV's series Beachfront Bargain Hunt, with a request to feature the beautiful unit on an upcoming episode! Both the buyers and sellers thought this was a fun and unique opportunity and agreed to have the camera crew come in to film. The episode is scheduled to air early next year – we'll keep you up to date!  

It has been such a pleasure to list and sell this beautiful unit for our long-time clients turned friends! Over the past five years, we've assisted them in selling four properties. From Georgia by way of Illinois, they love the Destin area. It has provided the perfect place for them to enjoy their toys: a Road Glide Harley, Rubicon Jeep, and Cruising Yacht. Coastal cruising in paradise sounds like a dream come true!

Located in trendy Harbor Lights Condominium, this third-floor unit has a remarkable north-facing terrace overlooking Destin Harbor. The unit features ten-foot ceilings, an open floor plan, large windows, and crown molding in the living area. Porcelain tile flows through the entry, living area, kitchen, and bathrooms. The living space has a wall of glass with sliders that flow out to the spacious balcony. The kitchen has granite countertops, pantry, custom tile backsplash, stainless steel appliances, and a large breakfast bar. The master bedroom is harbor-front with a large walk-in closet and a bathroom with double vanity and custom tiled shower. The second bedroom is across from the kitchen with views overlooking the canal. The unit has been beautifully decorated with a serene coastal chic vibe. A beautiful paradise!

Harbor Lights amenities include a fully-equipped fitness center, high-speed glass elevators, a large pool surrounded by brick paver deck, separate men's and women's locker rooms, dry sauna, and steam room. From the condo's exquisite foyer spiral staircases lead up to a spacious community space with a kitchen, living room, library, and a balcony that overlooks Destin Harbor. Harbor living at its very best! 

This was a great unit to shoot and market. With wonderful amenities and a unique location, we made the most of these features and highlighted them in our marketing plan. Check out the various ways we marketed the property to reach potential buyers.

   

After shooting professional photos, we utilized these to create interest in the property by running ads on social media platforms including Facebook, YouTube, Pinterest, and Instagram. We also send mobile-friendly email flyers to our database of investors and agents that linked to the property website for ease of access in learning more about the unit and surrounding area. The property is then featured on Zillow, Trulia, and Realtor.com, as well the internationally renowned Remax.com.

Click here to view other Harbor Lights units for sale!

Click here to view other condos for sale in Destin!

Thinking of selling or buying? Connect with us!

850.803.8633
debbie@soldinparadise.com

November 2019 | Condo & Home Market Highlights

November was another wonderful month for the Emerald Coast real estate market!

With the busy holiday season, we find many visitors traveling to our area. While here, vacationers fall in love with the area and decide it's time to make owning paradise a reality. Whether making the big move to become a permanent Florida resident or on the hunt for an investment property – we love assisting people in making this savvy move!   

The market activity this year has been exciting and we're continuing to stay prepared for the winter season into the new year. We love staying in touch to keep our clients prepared and on top of the emerald coast real estate market. This is a great time to perform some due diligence regarding purchasing property. There is no doubt that the market will continue to stay active well into the last bit of this year and into 2020. Keeping on top of the market will ensure that you don't miss any deals. We are getting a new influx of inventory daily and there are some great opportunities to take advantage of. The daily hot sheet has new listings hitting the market every day, so contact us to sign up for updates and let us keep you informed! 

Check out the area sales highlights for November:  

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

White Cliffs | Unit 701

30A West

$2,687,000

4 Bed | 4.5 Bath

3,908 Square Feet  

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

4905 Hwy 30A

30A West

$6,900,000

6 Bed | 6.5 Bath

5,743 Square Feet 

Looking to buy or sell your condo or home?

Let's Chat!

15 Questions to Ask Your Lender

When you buy a home, you’re in it for the long haul. You’ll have a mortgage payment for 15, 20 or 30 years, so it’s smart to shop around to find the best mortgage lenders out there. Choosing a lender might seem like a no-brainer if you go with whoever quotes you the lowest rates and fees. On the surface, that seems like a win-win strategy. But the lowest rates and fees can’t make up for poor service or a lack of transparency. To get the lowdown on how to cut through lending jargon so you know exactly what you’re signing up for here are 15 questions to ask your lender.


1. What are the most popular mortgages you offer? Why are they so popular?  

2. What fees are included in a loan; and what fees will be due at closing? 

3. Are your rates, terms, fees and closing costs negotiable? 

4. Do you offer discounts for inspections, homeownership classes or setting up automatic payments? 

5. Will I have to buy private mortgage insurance? If so, how much will it cost and how long will it be required? 

6. What are your escrow requirements? 

7. What bill-pay options do you offer? 

8. What would be included in my mortgage payment (homeowners insurance, property taxes, etc.)? 

9. Which type of mortgage plan would you recommend for my situation? 

10. Who will service this loan—your bank or another company? 

11. How long will the rate on this loan be locked in? Will I be able to obtain a lower rate if the market rate drops during the lock-in period? 

12. How long will the loan approval process take? 

13. How long will it take to close the loan? 

14. Are there any charges or penalties for prepaying this loan? 

15. How much in total will I be paying over the life of this loan? 




Even if you’re just beginning to think about buying or refinancing a home, it’s wise to talk to a lender early on to learn how you can set yourself up for success when the time comes. The emerald coast is lucky enough to have several reliable lenders in the area. Need help navigating the real estate market? Connect with us so we can get you started on your real estate journey!

Give us a call or email us for a complimentary home evaluation!

P: 850.803.8633  |  E: debbie@soldinparadise.com

P: 850.865.3711  |  E: jagnew@destin30Abeaches.com

7 Tips for Buying a Vacation Home

1. Consider how you’ll use the home. 
Will it just be for family and friends, or do you plan to rent it as well? And realistically, how many times will you use it per year? 

2. Evaluate locations. 
Are there enough amenities and attractions to keep you — and renters — coming back here after year? 

3. Talk to the locals. 
What do they love about the area? What’s changing? And what’s it like during the off-season? 

4. Study local laws. 
If you plan to rent the home, local rules may restrict rental periods or cap the number of days you can rent each year. 

5. Calculate costs. 
Along with mortgage, insurance, property taxes, and association or amenity fees, plan for wear and tear. 

6. Talk to an accountant. 
This person can advise you on such issues as the tax implications of rental income and changes in federal tax laws that could impact deductions. 

7. Work with an experienced realtor. 
Pick someone who knows the community and who can recommend the other experts you want to consult. Consider agents with Resort & Second-Home Property Specialist (RSPS) certification as they have completed additional instruction to help homeowners like you. Our very own Debbie Agnew is one of those agents as she is RSPS certified! 

If you're looking to invest in a vacation home, let us know – we're here and happy to help.

Give us a call or email us for a complimentary home evaluation!

P: 850.803.8633  |  E: debbie@soldinparadise.com

P: 850.865.3711  |  E: jagnew@destin30Abeaches.com

What's the Value of My Property?

We have four methods for estimating value in real estate, and each approach serves a purpose. In fact, one method could be used to qualify or confirm the results of another valuation. 

• Appraisal: An appraisal is an opinion of value determined by a professional, licensed appraiser. Most typically, a lender orders an appraisal in order to ascertain if a property is worth the buyer’s contract price. The lender wants to make sure that the property is worth at least the sales price. The appraiser selects closed sales for properties that are comparable to the subject home and in a similar, if not the same, neighborhood. These are properties that have sold within the past six months. 

• Comparative Market Analysis (CMA): The CMA is a realtor’s most common pricing tool. Most often, a CMA is used to help set a home’s listing price range. The real estate professional evaluates the active, pending, and sold comparable properties in the same or similar neighborhoods. 

• Broker Price Opinion (BPO): A licensed real estate professional prepares a BPO to valuate the most likely selling price of a property. Very often a lender in a short sale, REO, and foreclosure property will order a BPO. This opinion provides a value trend analysis. 

• Automated Valuation Model (AVM): An AVM is a software that provides property valuations based on mathematical modeling and proprietary algorithms. ATMs use tax assessor’s value, available data on the specific property, and statistics of like-kind property sales in order to determine a property’s value. They do NOT factor in the condition of the property and do NOT physically evaluate the property—which can make it less accurate than the other three methods. For example, Zillow provides AVMs called “zestimates” for properties and also offers a “zestimate range.” 

Although all four provide an estimate of value at a specific time, the most accurate is probably the appraisal. This method calls for both a physical inspection and a strict comparison/contrasting of the subject property with any like-kind property.

Give us a call or email us for a complimentary home evaluation!

P: 850.803.8633  |  E: debbie@soldinparadise.com

P: 850.865.3711  |  E: jagnew@destin30Abeaches.com

Getting Your Property Sold

Well, the new year is almost here. For whatever reason, 2020 might be a good time to sell. If so, we are here to help you maneuver the process. Check out our recommendations for potential sellers: 

• Discover objective value. We will provide a real-time property assessment. Let us help you determine the property value range, based on actual closed comparative sales, your neighborhood, and the overall quality of your property. 

• Don’t be too attached. Be objective. Wean yourself from it. If you are too attached you will not see it as potential buyers will. Take a step back; then walk thru it with a buyer's eyes. Being overly attached will most certainly elevate the price in your eyes. 

• On the other hand, note the positives. When we showcase your property, we will want to illuminate its best features. We will provide professional photos and videography as well as a description that will highlight its very best qualities and distinctiveness. 

• Get an inspection. Address the repair list. The most precarious part of contract due diligence is the inspection period. This will minimize the issues that the buyer’s inspector will expose. 

• Get ready. Declutter. Depersonalize. Deep Clean. Minimize furniture. Start packing! 

Of course, one of the most crucial decisions you will make is who will you get to help you sell. That is where we can help. That is where we have expertise. That is what we do best!

Give us a call or email us for a complimentary home evaluation!
P: 850.803.8633  |  E: debbie@soldinparadise.com

Emerald Coast Events | December 2019

December is a special time here on the Emerald Coast. The weather is finally crisp and cool, the water is crystal clear, the sunsets are stunning, and many winter festivities take place. If you're in town this month or lucky enough to be local – here are some happenings to check out along the Emerald Coast. 

FESTIVALS & HAPPENINGS:

Ugly Sweater Party 

When: December 7th

Where: Louis Louis

Description: 'Tis the Season! Louis Louis will host their Annual Ugly Sweater Bash on Saturday, December 7th from 9pm 'til late night. The Marines will be present to collect gifts for children in need. Bring one new, unwrapped gift for a drink ticket and get your groove on with DJ Michael Desciple! No matter how tacky, itchy, and overly festive some may think Christmas sweaters are, Louis Louis wants to celebrate every inch of green, red, and jingly bells. Deck the halls, don your gay apparel and get ready to jingle around the clock. It's time to celebrate the customers who keep the restaurant going year-round. Show up in your best ugly christmas sweater to party in Santa Claus style!

Tee Off For Toys

When: December 8th-9th

Where: Sandestin Golf & Beach Resort

Description: Get in the winter spirit at the Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort as they Tee Off for Toys December 7th & 8th. Sandestin will offer golf at all three of its public courses, Raven Golf Club, Baytowne Golf Club, and The Links Golf Club. People are asked to donate new, unwrapped toys or gift cards with a value of $15 or more and in exchange, guests can play Sandestin's golf courses for just the green and golf car fee ($20). All toys and donations will be given to Harvest House’s “Hope for Holidays” and Children in Crisis programs, both benefiting children and families in need this holiday season. Local residents, guests, and visitors are welcome to participate. Tee times are available all day and can be made by calling 850.267.8155.

South Walton Elf Ride

When: December 8th

Where: WaterColor

Description: The 12th annual South Walton Elf Ride takes place Sunday, December 8, 2019, at 1pm. It's a local holiday adventure on bikes. Meet at the starting place in costumes and decorated bikes at Van Ness Butler, Jr. Beach Access parking lot on Western Lake Dr in WaterColor and make the trek to the SWFD's Fire Station at WaterColor Crossings. Participants will walk, bike or longboard the 1.5-mile distance to the fire station on Hwy 395 at WaterColor Crossings. If you aren't able to make the trek you can meet up with everyone at the SWFD firehouse party! Participants are asked to bring at least one unwrapped gift to benefit the SWFD's Angel Tree Program. There will be prizes for Best Costume and Best Bike Decor! Click here for more info.

Ice Skating Extravaganza

When: December 13th

Where: Baytowne Wharf

Description: The Village of Baytowne Wharf will host the fourth annual Ice Skating Extravaganza at Baytowne on Ice skating pavilion. The event will feature two performances from well-known skaters, Dylan David Moscovitch and Kristin Cowan, on Friday, Dec. 13 at 6:00pm & 7:30pm. Both skaters will be sharing tips and tricks. Free and open to the public. Before and in between the shows, lace up those skates and glide around with the pros.

Rosemary Beach Holiday Tour of Homes

When: December 14th

Where: Rosemary Beach

Description: Mark your calendars for the Inaugural Holiday Home Tour on Saturday, December 14th at 1pm in the community of Rosemary Beach. A few of the most stunning homes have been selected, decorated in their finest, guaranteed to get you into the holiday spirit. Tickets available at Rosemary Beach Foundation Facebook Event: Holiday Tour of Homes. Or click purchase tickets online here. $10 per person. All proceeds benefit the Boys and Girls Club of the Emerald Coast.

33rd Holiday on the Harbor Destin Boat Parade

When: December 15th

Where: HarborWalk Village
Description: The Destin Harbor will be dancing with holiday lights and cheer during the 33rd Annual Holiday on the Harbor Destin Boat Parade. The celebration begins at Boshamps where boats festively decorated with holiday lights and décor line-up and begin drifting along the Harbor past HarborWalk Village toward the Destin Bridge and Norriego Point. Margaritaville and Harry T’s offer the perfect spot for parade viewing. The evening ends with a bang as fireworks light up the sky. Enjoy a Sunday of holiday fun! A fireworks show sponsored by HarborWalk Village will light up the sky at the end of the boat parade. All commercial, charter, and private boats are invited to help light up the Harbor with the true Destin spirit. To enter your boat in the parade stop by the Destin History and Fishing Museum or contact the Destin History & Fishing Museum.

Winter Wonderland

When: December 21st

Where: Baytowne Wharf

Description: The Village of Baytowne Wharf invites you to experience some holiday magic with them on Saturday, December 21 beginning at 9am. The Event Plaza is turning into a Winter Wonderland full of real snow! Slide down an ice slide, make snow angels, and enjoy a day of frosty fun for the whole family. Come out and stroll The Village of Baytowne Wharf after dark. Beautiful holiday decor and sparkling lights throughout the Village will fill your family with the spirit of Christmas.

WEEKLY EVENTS:

12 Nights of Light
Every Wednesday, Friday & Saturday @ Baytowne Wharf

Seaside Holiday Market
Every Friday, Saturday & Sunday @ Seaside

Horse Drawn Carriage Rides
Every Friday & Saturday @ Grand Boulevard

Farmer's Markets

Every Saturday @ Seaside & Grand Boulevard

Every Sunday @ Rosemary Beach

If you're looking for some indoor activities to do check out our additional blog post: 10 Things to Do Indoors In Destin. 

Planning to be in town? 

Let's Chat!