Found 316 blog entries tagged as Florida.

How to Buy a Vacation Rental Home in Mexico Beach, FL

How do you buy a vacation rental home in Mexico Beach, FL?

To buy a vacation rental home in Mexico Beach, FL, you’ll need to understand local rental rules, budget for coastal insurance, and choose a property with strong rental appeal. With Billy Joe Smiley’s local expertise, you can find the right home that balances lifestyle and income potential.

Why Mexico Beach is Popular for Vacation Rentals

Mexico Beach real estate offers a rare mix of charm and rental demand. The town’s ban on high-rise condos keeps the skyline low and the community relaxed, while its Gulf-front access and fishing opportunities attract visitors year-round. Vacation rentals are a major draw for families, retirees,…

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Merry Christmas from Florida’s Forgotten Coast! 


There’s nothing quite like the holidays along Florida’s Forgotten Coast — where sugar-white sands meet sparkling lights, Gulf breezes mingle with peppermint mochas, and every sunset feels like its own Christmas painting across the water.

From St. George Island to Cape San Blas, Port St. Joe, St. Joe Beach, and Mexico Beach, our communities shine a little brighter this time of year. Whether you’re strolling Reid Avenue under twinkling storefronts, gathering seashells with family, or enjoying a peaceful winter sunset over St. Joseph Bay, this season reminds us how magical coastal living truly is.

As we wrap up another year, we are grateful for every neighbor, visitor, client, partner, and friend who…

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1031 Exchanges on the Forgotten Coast: A Smart Way to Build Wealth Through Real Estate

When it comes to real estate investing along Florida’s Forgotten Coast, strategy matters. A 1031 Exchange is one of the most powerful tools available to help investors grow wealth, defer taxes, and upgrade into higher-performing properties. 

Disclaimer: This information is provided for general educational purposes only and should not be considered legal, tax, or financial advice. Please consult your attorney, accountant, or financial advisor for guidance specific to your situation.

What Is a 1031 Exchange?

A 1031 Exchange (IRS Section 1031) allows an investor to sell an investment property and reinvest the proceeds into another like-kind investment —…

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Bay-Area Living in Port St. Joe: Explore 212 12th Street Near St. Joseph Bay

A Central Port St. Joe Location Close to the Bay

Located just two blocks from St. Joseph Bay, 212 12th Street in Port St. Joe, Florida offers an ideal blend of coastal proximity and in-town convenience. This established neighborhood places you near the water while keeping daily essentials, dining, and community amenities within easy reach.

From kayaking and paddleboarding to bay scalloping and sunset strolls, the coastal lifestyle is part of everyday living at this address.

Comfortable Living with Practical Design

The home at 212 12th St offers a functional layout designed for everyday living and relaxed coastal comfort. Interior spaces are arranged to support…

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Is Now a Good Time to Sell in St. George Island’s Bayfront Areas? 

Yes, now can be an excellent time to sell in St. George Island real estate in the Bayfront areas thanks to high demand, low inventory, and strong seasonal interest. Billy Joe Smiley explains current market trends and how to maximize your returns.

 

Why Bayfront Properties Are in Demand

St. George Island’s Bayfront areas are among the most desirable on the island due to their sweeping views, private docks, and easy access to Apalachicola Bay.

Buyers looking for vacation homes and short-term rental investments are competing heavily for properties here.

Current Market Trends on St. George Island

- **Low Inventory:** Bayfront homes are limited, which drives up…

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Should You Renovate Before Listing Your Cape San Blas Home For Sale?

Should you renovate before selling your home on Cape San Blas, FL?

Renovating before selling on Cape San Blas depends on your goals, property condition, and buyer demand. Minor upgrades often boost appeal, but large renovations don’t always guarantee higher profits. Billy Joe Smiley helps you weigh the costs and benefits.

When Renovations Make Sense

On Cape San Blas, small updates often make a big difference. Consider:
- Fresh interior and exterior paint
- Replacing weathered deck boards
- Updating lighting and fixtures
- Refreshing landscaping

These affordable projects improve curb appeal and buyer impressions.

When to Skip Major Renovations

Large projects like…

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Build Your Coastal Retreat at 7797 CR 30-A: A Rare 0.876-Acre Beachside Homesite on Florida’s Forgotten Coast

Few opportunities along the Forgotten Coast offer the combination of size, beach proximity, privacy, and investment potential found at 7797 CR 30-A in Port St. Joe, Florida. This 0.876-acre cleared parcel sits just ~350 ft from the Gulf of America, creating the perfect canvas for a custom coastal home, vacation rental investment, or long-term family getaway.

 

A Rare Chance to Build Along CR 30-A Near Cape San Blas & Indian Pass

Large, buildable parcels close to the beach are becoming increasingly scarce along the Port St. Joe and Cape San Blas corridor. This homesite provides exceptional flexibility with:

  • 0.876 acres of…

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Modern Comfort Meets Outdoor Living at 354 Canning Drive, Wewahitchka, Florida

Nestled in the heart of Wewahitchka, where freshwater adventure meets small-town charm, 354 Canning Drive offers an exceptional blend of modern comfort, thoughtful design, and outdoor living at its finest. This 2024-built home delivers the perfect balance of stylish interiors and lifestyle-friendly features—ideal for full-time residents, retirees looking for easy coastal access, or outdoorsmen needing room for boats, RVs, and gear.

Located in an X Flood Zone, this property provides peace of mind while placing you minutes from the Dead Lakes, Apalachicola River, and Chipola River, as well as a short drive to Port St. Joe, Mexico Beach, and Panama City.

A Modern,…

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Top Questions Buyers Ask About Port St. Joe Real Estate – Answered by Billy Joe Smiley

What are the top questions buyers ask in Port St. Joe, FL?

Buyers in Port St. Joe, FL often ask about affordability, flood zones, insurance, neighborhoods, and timing. Billy Joe Smiley answers these questions with local insight to help buyers make confident, informed decisions.

Question 1: Can I Afford a Home in Port St. Joe in 2025?

Affordability is always the first question. To date in 2025, the average home price sits at $406,000 depending on location and amenities.

Billy Joe helps buyers run the numbers, factoring in homeowners insurance, flood insurance, property taxes, and HOA fees where applicable. His advice: don’t just buy what you’re…

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Luxury Beachside Living with Endless Views

Discover Coastal Elegance at 113 Cabana Ln — Cape San Blas, Florida

Cape San Blas isn’t just a getaway — it’s a lifestyle. Powder-soft white sand, Gulf breezes, and sunset skies make every day feel like vacation. And at 113 Cabana Ln, you’ll experience the very best of this beloved stretch of North Cape San Blas.

This stunning 3-bedroom, 3.5-bathroom home is located 1st Tier to the Gulf with direct beach access just steps from your door. Designed with architectural character, quality coastal construction, and multiple private decks, this home delivers luxury living wrapped in timeless seaside charm.

Elevated Design Meets Comfort & Coastal Style

From the moment you arrive, this home stands out…

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