Discover tips and advice to help you prepare for selling your home.

How Much Does It Cost to Sell a Home on Florida's Forgotten Coast?

Selling a home on Florida's Forgotten Coast typically costs between 7% and 9% of the sale price in total closing expenses, not counting what you still owe on your mortgage. On a $900,000 sale, that's roughly $63,000 to $81,000 in costs before you net a dollar. The largest line items are real estate commission, Florida documentary stamp taxes paid by the seller at $0.70 per $100 of the sale price, owner's title insurance, and title company fees. Running a seller net sheet before you list is the only way to know what you'll actually walk away with.


By Billy Joe Smiley | June 10, 2026

The first question almost every seller asks me isn't "what should we list at?" It's "how…

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How Long Does It Take to Sell a Home on St. George Island? Billy Joe Smiley Breaks It Down

On average, St. George Island homes sell within 30 to 60 days, depending on pricing, location, and seasonal demand. Billy Joe Smiley explains what affects timelines and how to speed up your sale.

Average Selling Times on St. George Island

The St. George Island real estate market is unique due to its mix of vacation properties, luxury homes, and investment rentals.

- Well-priced homes in Gulf Beaches and Plantation neighborhoods typically sell in **30-45 days**.

- Waterfront properties may move even faster, especially during spring and early summer.

- Homes priced above market value can sit unsold for **90 days or more**.

Factors That…

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Where to Sell Home Items Before Moving Out of Your Mexico Beach Home

You can sell home items before moving out of your Mexico Beach home by using online marketplaces, consignment shops, and local yard sales. Billy Joe Smiley shares practical tips for decluttering, earning extra cash, and making your home more appealing to buyers before listing.

Why Sell Items Before Moving?

Decluttering not only lightens your load but also makes your Mexico Beach home more attractive to buyers. A clean, neutral space helps potential buyers imagine themselves living there, something Billy Joe Smiley always emphasizes to sellers.

Top Options for Selling Home Items

1. Facebook Marketplace & Local Buy/Sell Groups: Great for quick sales of furniture,…

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Should I sell my home in the Oak Grove community of Port St. Joe?

The decision to sell your Oak Grove home depends on your goals, the market, and timing. Billy Joe Smiley shares what’s happening locally and helps you decide whether now is the right time or if waiting makes sense.

The Oak Grove Market Today

Oak Grove is one of Port St. Joe’s most established neighborhoods, known for its proximity to town and affordability. Homes here are in steady demand thanks to their charm and location near schools, shops, and Reid Avenue.


Reasons to Sell Now

- Rising home values in Gulf County over the past few years.

- Buyers looking for more affordable options compared to downtown or Windmark Beach.

- Low inventory in Port St. Joe makes Oak…

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How Do Seasonal Trends Affect Selling a Home on St. George Island? Billy Joe Smiley Explains

Seasonal trends play a significant role in selling St. George Island real estate. Billy Joe Smiley explains when demand peaks, how buyer behavior changes, and how to time your listing for the best results.

Understanding the Impact of Seasonality

The St. George Island real estate market is heavily influenced by seasonal demand due to its popularity as a vacation destination.

Knowing when buyers are most active helps you time your listing for a faster sale and better offers.

Peak Selling Seasons on St. George Island

- **Spring (March-May):** The busiest time for buyers planning summer vacations and investments.

- **Early Summer…

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Billy Joe Smiley’s FSBO Tips for Homeowners on Cape San Blas

What FSBO tips actually help you sell your home on Cape San Blas? 

If you’re searching “Sell Home” tips for a do-it-yourself sale on Cape San Blas, focus on three levers you control: pricing, presentation, and precision. These practical steps from Billy Joe Smiley help you move from ‘for sale’ to ‘sold’ without wasting time or money. 

Price With Precision (and Purpose) 

Start with a hyper-local CMA. Segment comps by view tier, micro-neighborhood, and rental potential. Price in a narrow band that attracts your best buyer. Investors care about cap rate and seasonality; second-home buyers care about view corridors and maintenance. If your home will be shown during…

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Selling Without an Agent? What You Must Disclose in Mexico Beach, FL


If I list my Mexico Beach home for sale without an agent, what must I disclose?


If you sell your home without an agent in Mexico Beach, FL, you must disclose known property defects, flood risks, HOA obligations, and other material facts required by Florida law. Billy Joe Smiley explains what FSBO sellers need to disclose to stay compliant and avoid legal issues.

Why Disclosures Matter

Florida law requires sellers to disclose all known material defects. This protects buyers from hidden issues and protects sellers from lawsuits after closing. Whether you use an agent or sell FSBO, disclosures are non-negotiable.

Key Required Disclosures in Florida

As a FSBO seller…

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Selling a Home Without an Agent on Cape San Blas: Legal & Ethical Considerations

Is it a good idea to list your Cape San Blas home for sale without an agent?

Short answer: it depends on your risk tolerance, time, and expertise. If you’re searching “Sell Home” advice specific to Cape San Blas, know that FSBO (For Sale By Owner) can work, but you’ll shoulder pricing, marketing, showings, contracts, and compliance yourself. Partnering with Billy Joe Smiley can help you compare true net proceeds and avoid legal missteps while keeping you in control.

Cape San Blas Is a Unique Market

Buyers are often out-of-area and shopping online before they ever step foot on Cape San Blas. They’re comparing Gulf-front and bay-view lifestyles, walkability to…

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What’s the Fastest Way to Sell a Waterfront Home on St. George Island? Billy Joe Smiley Shares Tips

What’s the fastest way to sell a St. George Island waterfront home?

Selling a waterfront home on St. George Island requires a tailored approach to stand out in a competitive market. Billy Joe Smiley shares proven strategies to help you attract buyers quickly and close faster.

Understand What Waterfront Buyers Want

Waterfront buyers on St. George Island are seeking more than just a home. They’re looking for a lifestyle.
- Panoramic water views, private docks, and boating access are major selling points.
- Vacation rental potential is also a top priority for many buyers seeking investment opportunities.


Price Strategically for Maximum…

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Selling a Home in Windmark Beach: Tips from Billy Joe Smiley

How do I sell a home in Windmark Beach, Port St Joe, Florida?

To sell a home in Windmark Beach, you’ll want to showcase coastal features, price competitively, and connect with buyers looking for that unique Gulf lifestyle. Billy Joe Smiley knows what works in this neighborhood and shares his best tips.

Highlight the Lifestyle

Windmark Beach real estate isn’t just about homes, it’s about the way of life. Walking trails, boardwalks, pools, access to St. Joseph Bay, and a vibrant town center make this community special. Billy Joe suggests sellers highlight these amenities in photos and listings to capture buyers’ imagination.


Curb Appeal Counts

Buyers notice the details. A…

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