Found 44 blog entries tagged as Franklin county.


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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How Do I Sell My Home Fast on St. George Island, FL? Billy Joe Smiley Answers

How do I sell my home fast on St. George Island, FL?

To sell your home fast on St. George Island, FL, price it right from the start, make smart repairs, and work with a trusted local expert like Billy Joe Smiley who knows how to move properties in this unique coastal market.

Understand the St. George Island Market

St. George Island, FL, isn’t your typical real estate market. It’s a barrier island where second homes, vacation rentals, and retirement dreams come together.

To sell your home fast here, you need to know what’s moving and why.

As of mid-2025, the median time on the market for single-family homes has dropped below 100 days, with well-priced…

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Explore the Best Farmers' Markets on Florida's Forgotten Coast

The Forgotten Coast of Florida is known for its charming small towns, beautiful beaches, and vibrant local culture. One of the best ways to immerse yourself in the area is by visiting the local farmers' markets. Whether you're a local or just visiting, these markets offer fresh produce, handmade goods, and a true taste of the region's unique flavors. In this blog post, we'll explore the best farmers' markets in Port St. Joe, Apalachicola, and Mexico Beach, each with its own charm and variety of offerings.

1. Port St. Joe Farmers' Market: Local Produce and Scenic Views

Located in the heart of Port St. Joe, the Port St. Joe Farmers' Market is a must-visit for anyone looking for…

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Discover the Ultimate Coastal Lifestyle in These Luxury Communities on Florida’s Forgotten Coast

The Forgotten Coast of Florida, with its breathtaking landscapes and serene beaches, is home to some of the most prestigious and idyllic luxury communities. Whether you're looking for a tranquil escape, a family-friendly vacation spot, or an investment in a private beach haven, these developments offer an unmatched blend of natural beauty and upscale amenities. Here’s a closer look at four of the finest luxury communities: Ovation on Cape San Blas, Sugar Sands at Mexico Beach, and The Plantation on St George Island.

Ovation on Cape San Blas: The Jewel of the Forgotten Coast

Ovation on Cape San Blas represents the pinnacle of luxury living on the…

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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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Hiking Adventures in the Florida Panhandle: A Journey Through Nature's Gems

As an avid outdoorsman I have I have been exploring The Florida Panhandle my entire life.  Known for its lush landscapes and diverse ecosystem my home turf is a paradise for hikers. Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or a casual nature enthusiast, the region offers an array of trails and parks that showcase the natural beauty unique to our area. Let’s explore some of the must-visit hiking spots in the Florida Panhandle, including essential information, difficulty levels, and key points of interest for each location.  I have personally hiked or ran each of these trails so if you have questions just reach out.

 Ochlockonee River State Park

Ochlockonee River State…

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This article is not intended to give away any local secrets that would have me fed to the Sharks but instead as a tourist's guide to help you save some time and net some fun and possibly dinner.  There are plenty of social media sites full of information sharing (and bragging) about area fishing if you want to go deeper on the subject.  So, with that in mind here are a few hot spots to consider.

 Apalachicola Bay

 St. George Fishing Pier

You have two options for access to this fishing hotspot.  The old St. George Island bridge was repurposed into two fishing piers, one on the Eastpoint side of the bay and one on the St. George Island side of the bay.  The middle section was removed after the completion of the new bridge.  There is simply no…

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June 2024 Edition of Port Living: Spotlighting Dads!

In this month's edition of Port Living, we are spotlighting Dads! We've curated a special Father's Day guide featuring the Best Fishing Spots on the Forgotten Coast, tips to create an Outdoor Oasis the whole family will love, and Hiking Trails where you can get out and enjoy nature.

But that's not all! Port Living is your go-to resource to discover all that is the Forgotten Coast. Whether you're a seasoned local or a curious newcomer, our monthly publication is packed with insider tips, recommendations, and stories that will inspire you to explore and experience the very best of our beloved area.

So why wait? Click on the links below and embark on a journey of discovery, adventure, and…

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May 2024 Edition of Port Living: Honoring Moms!

Exciting news, everyone! We are delighted to unveil the inaugural edition of our Blogazine - Port Living! And what better way to kick things off than by celebrating the wonderful mothers in our lives in style this Mother's Day?

In this premier issue, we've curated a spectacular Mother's Day Guide, brimming with the best places to pamper and spoil Mom. From quaint cafes serving up decadent treats to enchanting Butterfly Gardens, we've handpicked the finest local gems to make this Mother's Day truly unforgettable.

But that's not all! Port Living is your go-to resource for to discover all that is the Forgotten Coast. Whether you're a seasoned local or a curious newcomer, our monthly publication…

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Planting for Monarch Butterflies on Florida's Forgotten Coast

Planting for monarch butterflies is a wonderful way to support these beautiful insects, whose populations have been declining in recent years.  Monarch butterflies rely on milkweed plants as their primary food source and breeding habitat.  Here are some steps you can take to create a welcoming environment for monarch butterflies:

  1.  Plant Milkweed: Milkweed is essential for monarch butterflies as it is the only plant on which they lay their eggs, and it provides food for their caterpillars.  There are many species of milkweed, so choose one or more that are native to the Forgotten Coast.  Common species include Common Milkweed, Swamp Weed, and Butterfly Weed.
  2.  Provide Nectar…

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