Found 179 blog entries tagged as homes.

What Does 106 Hidden Ridge Rd Offer at $499,900?

106 Hidden Ridge Rd is a 3-bedroom, 2-bath home with 2,004 sq ft of heated/cooled living space, listed at $499,900 in the Palm Ridge subdivision of St. Joe Beach. Built in 2006 on a 0.33-acre lot, the property features a spring-fed pond, a screened Florida room with French doors, vaulted ceilings in the great room, and a bonus room sized for a real office or studio. There's no HOA, all utilities are connected, and the location sits roughly midway between Port St. Joe and Mexico Beach, with Gulf access a short drive in either direction.

By Billy Joe Smiley | September 11, 2026

106 Hidden Ridge Rd is a three-bedroom, two-bath home on a third of an acre in the Palm Ridge subdivision of St. Joe…

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What does a home inspection actually cover on a Forgotten Coast beach home?

More than most buyers expect, and it is usually three separate reports rather than one. The general home inspection covers the whole property from roof to pilings and is written for you. A 4-point inspection covers roof, electrical, plumbing, and HVAC and is written for your insurance carrier. A wind mitigation inspection documents the hurricane-resistant features already in the home so you can earn premium credits, and it often pays for itself in year one. On an elevated coastal home, the pilings, the connectors, and the corrosion on the metal deserve as much attention as anything inside the walls.

By Billy Joe Smiley | September 3, 2026

Buyers who have owned…

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One Day on the Market: Park Point Custom Home with St. Joe Bay Views

This secluded dunes custom home in Park Point at Secluded Dunes on North Cape San Blas lasted just one day on the market—proof that the right buyer showed up at the perfect time. With St. Joe Bay right out the back door and uninterrupted vistas into the St. Joe Peninsula State Park, it’s a rare find in the heart of the Forgotten Coast.

A Setting Like Nowhere Else

Backing up to the state park means your "neighbors" are the deer and native fauna that make this world-class preserve so special. From sunrise over the bay to peaceful evenings, the views and wildlife take center stage every day.

Highlights at a Glance

Stunning St. Joe Bay views from the backyard


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Spacious Wewahitchka Home Near White City Boat Launch | 6672 Gardenia St

Looking for a home that offers more room, convenient water access, and proximity to Port St. Joe? 6672 Gardenia St in Wewahitchka, Florida brings together everyday comfort and outdoor lifestyle appeal in one Gulf County location.

This 3-bedroom, 2-bath single-family home offers approximately 1,938 square feet of living space on a 0.64-acre homesite, giving buyers room to spread out while staying close to boating, fishing, dining, shopping, and coastal recreation. The property is currently listed at $239,000 through Port Realty Group.

A Spacious Home on 0.64 Acres in Wewahitchka

Set on a generous homesite, this Wewahitchka property provides the kind of space many…

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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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What tips does Billy Joe Smiley have for moving to Mexico Beach, FL?

Billy Joe Smiley’s top tips for moving to Mexico Beach, FL include understanding the coastal lifestyle, budgeting for insurance, and choosing the right neighborhood. With his local expertise, you’ll transition smoothly into your new Gulf Coast home.

Get to Know the Mexico Beach Lifestyle

Mexico Beach is a tight-knit, small coastal town where neighbors wave, sunsets are daily rituals, and golf carts share the road. It’s a slower pace compared to Panama City Beach or Destin, which is exactly why people love it. Billy Joe Smiley encourages buyers to visit at different times of year to experience both the peak season buzz and the quiet off-season calm.

Budget for Coastal…

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Should I Buy a Home Close to Port St. Joe High School?

Buying Port St. Joe real estate close to the high school can be a smart move if you value convenience, community, and strong resale potential. Billy Joe Smiley helps buyers weigh the benefits and considerations of living near this local landmark.

Why Proximity to Schools Matters

For many families, being close to a school is a major benefit. It means shorter commutes for students, easy access to school events, and a strong sense of community. In Port St. Joe, homes near the high school often appeal to buyers with kids and buyers looking for properties with long-term resale appeal.


Market Overview Near Port St. Joe High School

Homes near the high school tend to range in price…

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Can I Buy a Home on Cape San Blas With No Down Payment? Billy Joe Smiley’s Guide

Can I buy a Cape San Blas home with no down payment?

Yes, it’s possible to buy a home on Cape San Blas with no down payment using programs like USDA or VA loans. Billy Joe Smiley explains your options and what to expect in the process.

No Down Payment Doesn’t Mean No Options

For many buyers, the biggest hurdle to owning on Cape San Blas isn’t the mortgage, it’s the down payment. But there are ways around that. From zero-down loans to assistance programs, you may be closer to beachside ownership than you think.

Zero-Down Loan Programs

Here are the main ways buyers get into homes with no down payment:

• **USDA Loans:** Gulf County, including sections…

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What Every First-Time Buyer on St. George Island Should Know – A Guide by Billy Joe Smiley

First-time buyers of St. George Island real estate should know the importance of choosing the right neighborhood, understanding insurance and maintenance needs, and working with a local expert like Billy Joe Smiley. His guidance ensures you avoid pitfalls and make confident choices.

Buying your first home is exciting! Buying on St. George Island adds an extra layer of opportunity. From Gulf-front estates to bayfront retreats, the island offers unique options, but it also comes with considerations that every first-time buyer should keep in mind.

Understand the Market

St. George Island has limited inventory due to zoning restrictions and environmental…

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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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