Found 22 blog entries tagged as budgeting.



What's the Best time to buy a home on Cape San Blas?

The best time to buy a home on Cape San Blas depends on your goals-winter offers better deals while spring and summer gives you more listings.  Billy Joe Smiley helps you navigate the local rhythm to make the right move year-round.

Locals Know:  Timing Matters on the Coast

Buying a home on Cape San Blas isn't just about budget-it's about timing.  Out here on the coast, the real estate tide rises and falls with the seasons.  Knowing when to buy a home isn't a guessing game-it's local knowledge.  And that's where I can help.

 

What Each Season Brings For Buyers

Let's break it down:

  • **Winter (Dec-Feb):**Fewer buyers.  Sellers may be more flexible.  You could score a better…

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Why More High-End Buyers Are Investing in St. George Island Real Estate in 2025

Why are more high-end buyers investing in St. George Island real estate in 2025?

Because St. George Island offers luxury, privacy, and timeless Gulf-front beauty, high-net-worth buyers are choosing this quiet Florida gem for second homes and investment properties. With expert guidance from Billy Joe Smiley, navigating the upscale St. George Island market becomes a personal and rewarding experience.

If you're looking to buy a home and want something far from the usual crowded coastlines, St. George Island, FL should be on your radar. This barrier island along Florida’s Forgotten Coast is seeing a noticeable uptick in interest—particularly from high-end buyers…

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What Are the Steps to Buy a Home in Mexico Beach, FL?

What are the steps to buy a home in Mexico Beach, FL?

To buy a home in Mexico Beach, FL, you’ll need to get your finances in order, choose the right mortgage, partner with a local expert like Billy Joe Smiley, and navigate the offer-to-closing journey with eyes wide open. It’s a rewarding process when you know what’s ahead.

Step 1: Know Why You Want to Buy in Mexico Beach

Mexico Beach isn’t just another sunny town on the Gulf — it’s a tight-knit coastal community where people wave from their golf carts and sunsets are a nightly ritual. Whether you’re drawn by the promise of beachfront living, a retirement spot, or a second home to rent out part-time, start by getting crystal clear on…

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Can I Buy a Home on Cape San Blas Without a Realtor? Billy Joe Smiley Explains

Can I buy a home on Cape San Blas without a Realtor?

Sure you can. But just because you can doesn’t always mean you should—especially here on the coast. Buying a home on Cape San Blas without a Realtor might save you a step, but it could cost you more than you think.

Picture This: You, the Beach, and a Real Estate Contract

Let’s be real. Buying a home on Cape San Blas isn’t like buying a home just anywhere. Our little slice of Florida comes with its own rhythm, and its own rules. Whether you're eyeing a stilted cottage near Indian Pass or a bayfront lot tucked behind the dunes, there’s more to the deal than meets the eye.

If you’re thinking you might want to…

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How to Sell My Home in Port St. Joe, FL: Billy Joe Smiley’s Expert Guide

How do I sell my home in Port St. Joe, FL?

To sell your home in Port St. Joe, FL, start by pricing it right, making it shine from the street, and teaming up with a neighbor who knows every nook and cranny — like Billy Joe Smiley.

Understanding the Port St. Joe Real Estate Market

This isn’t just any beach town. Port St. Joe’s got its own rhythm — calm mornings on St. Joseph Bay, Saturday strolls down Reid Avenue, and that unmistakable salty air that keeps drawing folks in. Median home prices here hit around $425K as of early 2025, and homes in Windmark Beach, Barefoot Cottages, and the Downtown area are seeing steady interest. Why? Because people aren’t just buying…

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Demystifying Florida Flood Zones

Understanding the Alphabet Soup of Flood Zones, Flood Insurance, and Risk in Mexico Beach, Port St. Joe, Cape San Blas, and St. George Island

Floods rank among the most common—and costly—natural disasters worldwide. For homeowners, prospective buyers, and even renters, understanding Florida flood zones is crucial not only for safety but also for navigating the complexities of insurance, building requirements, and long-term property investment. Yet, the system of flood zones in the United States is notoriously intricate, with a mélange of letters, numbers, and acronyms such as FEMA, AE, VE, and COBRA overlaying maps and policies. In this article, we’ll unravel these terms, clarify their real-world impact, and…

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Maximizing Your Vacation Rental Investment on the Forgotten Coast: What Guests Are Seeking

Investing in a vacation rental on the Forgotten Coast can be a profitable venture, but to truly maximize your return, it's essential to understand what potential guests are looking for. This hidden gem of Florida offers a unique charm that can attract a diverse array of travelers. Here's what you need to know to ensure your property stands out and delivers the best possible returns.

Prime Location: The Coastal Allure

Location, location, location is key to a successful vacation rental. Water views are the highest demand but being close to pristine beaches or Bayfront are the next best thing.,   The Forgotten Coast has charming downtown areas such as …

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Has your homeowner’s insurance premium gone up? Rates have risen across the country, but these five tips can help you cut costs. Comparison shop each year to make sure your price is competitive Bundle your home and auto policies to save on both Consider raising your deductible to reduce your premiums Make your home more disaster-resistant for lower rates Invest in home security upgrades to get discounts Ready to save? Reach out for a referral to an insurance broker who can help you shop around for the best rate. 850-227-7979

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January 10 is National Cut Your Energy Costs Day! 

How are you keeping your utility bills down this winter? Here are a few ideas:

Upgrade old appliances. When you shop, look for the Energy Star rating to ensure your new washing machine, dishwasher, or oven are as efficient as possible.

Switch to LED lightbulbs. These use just 8 watts to produce the same brightness as a 60-watt incandescent bulb, and today’s LEDs come in all shades and levels of warmth.

Keep an eye on the thermostat. Be sure to turn down the temperature when you’re out or invest in a programmable smart version.

Check the seals on doors and windows. Try weatherstripping or caulk as a short-term fix or consider bringing in a professional to assess trouble areas. Wash…

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