2014 Snapper Season | Destin Florida

The Gulf of Mexico Fishery Management Council, meeting in Baton Rouge last week, voted for an 11 day Red Snapper season for 2014 in Federal Waters. Area fisherman were all expecting a 40 day plus season that was consistent with the past several years and their dissapointment with Red Snapper management is turning to anger.

The Red Snapper fishery has been governed by a "share" program for the past several years. Commercial fisherman, who sell their catch to restaurants and markets around the world, are allocated 49% while Recreational fisherman, including charter boats, receive the remaining 51%. The performance to the allocation is "estimated" since catches are not required to be weighed and recorded.

The vote was not absent of controversy as…

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Destin Real Estate Update - Q1 2014

Sales numbers for the first quarter of 2014 for all Destin Real Estate are in.  Destin is an upscale beach community in Northwest Florida, also known as the Emerald Coast, that is very popular with tourists and those looking to enjoy resort lving.  The original settlers in the area took advantage of the abundant fishery located off the Destin coast and made their living by fishing.  Gradually, the white sandy beaches and turquoise waters attracted pleasure seekers looking to relax and take in the scenery. In the early 1970's the area had become so popular that a local developer built the first high rise condo in Destin. Today, real estate in Destin is complex and includes transactions involving homes, condos, and lots.

Destin Homes

There are many…

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Sandestin Real Estate Update | Q1 2014

For those that prefer variety, the Sandestin Beach Resort may be what you are looking for. This paradise has four championship golf courses that are flanked by the white sandy beaches of the Gulf of Mexico and the Choctawhatchee Bay. The entire resort exudes quality and prestige from every angle, enticing those who visit, to return again and again. The lush and tropical landscaping that greets visitors, opens to reveal meticulously manicured common areas along the roads that lead to distinctive Sandestin Real Estate.  The forward thinking developers of this tropical oasis have established a legacy that continues to thrive.

Sandestin Homes

There is a home for every desire in Sandestin.  Some of the finest luxury homes along the Emerald Coast can…

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Destin Harborfront Condos

  The sun glistens over the tranquil waters of the Destin harbor as the fishing fleet returns from a full day on the water.  The docks are crowded with onlookers trying to catch a glimpse of the days catch but the smiles of the anglers leave little to the imagination. As the deckhands display the snapper, amberjack, and grouper, on the weathered wood benches; a few lucky people are thinking “I’m glad we own a Destin Harborfront Condo”.   The Destin Harbor Boardwalk, finished in 2012, is approximately a quarter of mile long and runs alongside many fine restaurants and retail stores. If you are looking to have the fish of your choice grilled, fried, or blackened, the Destin Harbor is the place to be.    Destin Harborfront Condos are most…

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Bankowned Foreclosure Spotlight

There are many great choices for real estate in Destin and foreclosures are still very popular.  In 2010, most sales of condos were either Destin Foreclosures or a Short Sale.  Today, things have changed and distressed sales make up a much smaller portion of total activity. A foreclosure is a property owned by the bank and the negotiation process is fairly straight forward. 

Our spotlight this week focuses on a Silver Beach Condo, unit 1401.  This fantastic 4 bedroom condo has 2000 square foot, is sold unfurnished, and listed at $929,000. As you enter the condo, you will be immediately impressed with the high ceilings, creative lay-out, and crown moldings.  The living room floors hare hardwood and the kitchen has corian countertops. The inviting…

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Destin Spring Break- 5 Things to do

If you live up North, the winter has been LONG. Fortunately, the weather and water are warming in Destin and sunshine is the norm. Spring break, the 2014 edition is well under way.  Running from March 7 - April 18 this year, spring break in Destin is longer than normal.  If you haven't made reservations yet, there is still plenty of time.

If you find yourself in Destin, there are many great things to do. My favorite 5 are:

1. Go Snorkeling - Park down on Gulfshore drive across from the entrance to O'steen beach.  Walk down to the Jetty's and you are at Destin's foremost snorkeling destination. P.S. Don't forget to bring your gear.

2. Rent a Pontoon and spend the day cruising and checking out Destin harborfront condos or hanging out on Crab…

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Destin Real Estate - February Activity

With its stunning beaches, sparkling waters, and great people, there is little wonder as to why Destin continues to grow and prosper. Many discover our paradise, accidentally, during a random weekend getaway or vacation, only to discover that they have found the place they will someday call "home". Below are some sales numbers for the month of February, reflecting all activity for Destin, Scenic 30A,  and Sandestin.

Single Family Homes - Destin Beaches

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Stunning Coastal Dune Lakes

Coastal Dune Lakes

Stunningly beautiful are my first thoughts when asked about our coastal dune lakes.  These natural masterpieces are only found, in North America, along the Beaches of South Walton and we are blessed with 15 lakes that have over 26 miles of coastline.  This map provides the names and locations of each. 

What makes these lakes unique?  They share an intermittent connection with the Gulf of Mexico called an outfall.  Since the lakes are fed by run-off, rain, and surge, the outfall provides a means for flood control, draining excess water into the Gulf.  The outfall also provides a pathway for salt water to enter during high tide.  The result is a diverse eco system.

Recreational Activities along the Coastal Dune lakes

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Just Sold | 1515 Miracle Strip Pkwy #414

Congratulations to our clients who just purchased 1515 Miracle Strip Pkwy, #414.

This beautiful condo has 1279 square feet, 2 bedrooms and a bunkroom. Located on Okaloosa Island, owners and guests at Destin West have access to the largest lagoon pool along the coast, a gulf side swimming pool, fitness room, hot tubs and more.  Unit 414 has fantastic views overlooking the pool and beach. There are a few more Destin West Condos for Sale if you want a property in a great complex with great access to local attractions.

Kids absolutely love the lagoon pool and the hot tubs are great for conversation under the evening skys.  There are 93 total units on the beachside of Destin West, including 1,2, and 3bedroom units.  The complex was built in 2000 and…

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Destin Charter Fishing

Going fishing is my favorite thing to do in Destin. I’m not exactly sure why but it could have something to do with the sparkling water or the amazing memories that we always make. Whatever the reason, this is fact: We are the closest port in Florida to “deep” water in the Gulf of Mexico. Why is this important? Because, deep water is where the BIG fish live.

Anglers are able to target snapper, grouper, amberjack, swordfish, tuna, wahoo and other species within a short boat ride from Destin. Not only are these fish fun to catch, they are delicious to eat!

Snapper, Grouper, and Amberjack live on the bottom of the ocean floor around relief or structure such as rocks, ledges, or wrecks. We catch these using heavy tackle, thanks sinks to the bottom,…

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