Welcome Dean Stevens!

Will StevensThe Southern family of companies continues to grow. Help us welcome our newest Florida and Alabama licensed agent, Dean Stevens! Dean specializes in buying and selling real estate in Orange Beach, Gulf Shores, Perdido Key, Dauphin Island, Pensacola and Foley and everywhere in between, and we could not be more excited to have him on board!

Prior to pursuing a career in real estate, Dean attended Eastern Michigan University and The University of Phoenix where he received his Bachelor’s in Management. He then began a career in finance with Merrill Lynch. As a fully licensed FINRA professional for over 12 years, Dean found that he enjoys working and strategizing with clients to build their portfolio and increase their net worth.

“I left Merrill Lynch to focus 100% of my time on my true passion – real estate,” said Dean. “I like helping buyers and sellers reach their goals, all the while providing unparalleled customer service.”

With experience in all realms of the real estate market, Dean focuses primarily on buying and selling beach condos and second homes, as well as single family residences. From luxury properties and land to commercial retail space, short sales and foreclosures in Pensacola, Dean can definitely help!

If you’re interested in learning more about Dean and how he can help you with your future real estate endeavors, contact him at anytime 251.229.9886.

Shop Southern’s Flash Sale!

Flash-Sale-Web-300x220Our friends over at Southern Vacation Rentals are holding a flash sale this week, and if you have friends and family who want to visit you at your new home purchase on the Gulf Coast, now is the time for them to book!

Many people think fall, especially November, would be too cold to even consider taking a trip to the beach. As a local to who owns Florida or Alabama real estate, you know that in fact it’s the perfect time to hit the sand. The temperatures are still in the 70’s, the crowds are minimal and there are still wonderful events to enjoy in each beach community.

Right now, when booked by Friday, October 30, 2015, Southern Vacation Rentals is offering 30% off stays between now and November 13, 2015. To book, simply call one of their expert Vacation Planners who will be happy to help you select the ideal condo or beach home, or book online at SouthernResorts.com using promo code FLASH.

Why You Should Reconsider “For Sale By Owner”

SOLDAre you thinking about listing your home “For Sale”? If so, we don’t doubt that the thought: “I could save money on closing costs if I forgo hiring a Pensacola real estate agent,” has crossed your mind.  You’re not the first to think so, but we think you should reconsider for a few reasons.

For starters, the rate of “For Sale By Owner” (FSBO) homes has been decreasing steadily for decades. Why? Simply because the value that an agent brings to the table outweighs the commission paid. Last year alone, the typical for FSBO home sold for $208,700 while similar homes – listed by agents – sold for an average of $235,000. Six percent of $235,000 is $14,100. Assuming you covered all costs, that’s still $12,200 more than you would have made listing FSBO.

If that’s not reason enough to go out and hire an agent today, think about the resources and knowledge they can offer you. From marketing power and online tools, real estate agents can increase your property’s exposure and overall likelihood of selling. All this and the added benefit of having a built-in negotiator on your side so you can feel cool, calm, collected and confident when it comes time to close.

Are you interested in learning more about our agents and how we can help you sell your home? Give us a call today! We’ll be happy to walk you through the ins-and-outs of buying and selling a home.

Southern’s 20 Days of Giveaways!

As many of you already know, Southern Real Estate Sales is a proud member of the Southern family of companies. Not only are we here to offer buyers and sellers the chance to search condos for sale in Pensacola Beach, but to rent or even vacation in popular beach towns like Panama City Beach, Destin, Perdido Key, Orange Beach, Gulf Shores and Fairhope.

Speaking of vacation rentals, this year marks Southern Vacation Rentals’ 20th anniversary, and to celebrate the team is giving away free prizes for the next 20 days (well, starting November 1st). From dolphin cruises, segway tours and golf passes to a 3-night stay in the Gulf Coast vacation rental of your choice, you better be ready to act quickly because these prizes won’t last long!

To enter, all you have to do is “like” Southern’s Facebook page and follow the instructions. Everyone is eligible to win, but you must re-enter the contest daily to win that specific day’s gift.

What are you waiting for? Get a head start by liking Southern Vacation Rentals’ Facebook page today and keep an eye out for the amazing prizes to come!

Halloween Events Along the Beach

The Wharf2Ghouls and girls, get your costumes ready! Halloween is just around the corner and we know you will have a spooktacular time at these fun events along the beach.

If you own a home in Orange Beach The Wharf is your best bet Halloween family fun. This favorite Alabama shopping destination will host Trunk or Treat at The Wharf on Halloween evening from 6-8pm. Wander down Main Street as the kids choose candy from the decorated trunks of a long line of cars. Also available during the event is face painting, inflatables, free Ferris wheel rides and a variety of other family activities.

If you’re looking for more adult fun near your Perdido Key real estate, don your best costume for the annual Flora-Bama content. Over $2,000 in cash and prizes will be available. The contest kicks off at 9pm. For a truly scary experience, those who live in Fairhope, Alabama will want to tour the Nightmare Chambers near downtown. The haunt is open every Thursday, Friday and Saturday through Halloween night.

No matter how you celebrate, we hope you have a ghoulishly good time this Halloween! Trick or treating near your Gulf Coast home? Check out these Halloween safety tips from our friends at Southern Residential Leasing!

Pensacola Beach Art and Wine Festival

Art_and_Wine_Logo_2014One of the premier fall events along the beautiful beaches of Pensacola Beach takes place in just a few days and we couldn’t be more excited! If you love art and wine, what better excuse is there to hit the beach than the 2015 Pensacola Beach Art & Wine Festival?

The Pensacola Beach Art & Wine Festival will take place on Sunday, October 18 from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM. During this time, you can stroll through the event grounds at Portofino Boardwalk and shop the amazing creations of some of the Gulf Coast’s most talented artists.

The wine and culinary tasting event kicks off at no one on Sunday. Make your way from booth to booth as you sip and savor over sixty wine selections, paired with a tasty creation prepared by local chefs. Enjoy live music as you breathe in the crisp, fall air along the beaches of Northwest Florida. Purchase your tasting tickets now for just $35 or $60 for two. Want to simply attend and look at the art? Entrance into the event is free! If you are not an owner of Pensacola Beach real estate, reserve your stay in a Pensacola Beach vacation rental for this incredible event and save 15% on your getaway!

New Listing at Seawind in Gulf Shores!

If you are on the hunt for a condo for sale in Gulf Shores, look no further! Our Owner/Broker, Susan Carleton has a new listing at the popular Seawind complex.

For those of you who do not know, Seawind is an upscale condominium complex situated directly on the sandy white beaches of the Gulf of Mexico. Within minutes of popular Orange Beach attractions, Seawind boasts dramatic views from floor-to-ceiling windows, classic finishes and variety of resort amenities which includes everything from a beachfront pool and fitness facility to a community barbecue area and spa.

Unit 1002 is no different. This beautifully appointed 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom offers incredible views and fabulous upgrades. The unite features stainless steel appliances, granite counters, Kohler fixtures and SO much more. If you are looking for an investment property, this is a great one to choose!

Contact Susan today for additional details on this and other Gulf Shores real estate opportunities. Just remember to reference MLS #488513.

Oyster Cook-Off & Craft Beer Festival at the Hangout

logoIf you own or are thinking about purchasing real estate in Gulf Shores, Alabama, head over to the Hangout for the 2015 Oyster Cook-Off & Craft Beer Festival. This event kicks off on Friday, November 6, 2015 at 6:00 PM. Enjoy samples of over 60 craft beers, live music and demos from brewmasters.

The Oyster Cook-Off begins at 11:00AM on Sunday, November 7, 2015 with chef demos until 5:15PM. Don’t miss the awards ceremony immediately following these chef workshops. Sample recipes prepared by these talented chefs while following their workshops. Enjoy live music, SEC football, cold beverages and, of course, delicious oysters all day long.

The Hangout overlooks the beautiful beaches of the Gulf of Mexico, allowing you to savor the scenery during this weekend activity. This is sure to be an incredible event that you won’t want to miss. Tickets for the Craft Beer Festival Friday night at $40.00 and only $30.00 for the designated drivers. General Admissions tickets for the Oyster Cook-Off on Saturday are $10.00 per person and the tasting ticket booklet price is $25.00. VIP tickets are available for the event on Saturday. Purchase your tickets for the Oyster Cook-Off and Craft Beer Festival today.

Hidden Costs of Homeownership

Historic Home2If you have never owned or purchased a home for sale in Pensacola before, our real estate agents wanted to prepare you for some of the “hidden costs” ahead of time. That is right, there’s more than just a mortgage payment associated with this purchase…

For starters, property taxes come into play. Property taxes are based on the current value of your home and assessed yearly. The good news is that this fee can be paid yearly or divided into 12 payments over the course of the year and added to your mortgage payment.

Another thing to factor into the cost of owning a home is maintenance. When you live in a long term rental in Pensacola, most maintenance is performed by your property manager. However, home ownership means those costs fall upon you. Most people in the industry suggest you allocate 1% of your home’s worth for maintenance costs each year.

Mortgage insurance, supplemental insurance, landscaping, HOA fees, the list of hidden fees goes on. It is important to factor these things into your budget as you search for a home or condo for sale in Pensacola Beach.

Three Tips for a Quick Home Sale

6Did you know that 9 out of 10 buyers will begin their search for homes for sale in Pensacola online? In today’s hyper-connected world, you may be wondering how sellers can be just as savvy as the online house hunters.

When it comes time to selling your home fast, and for the right price, the best solution is to work with an agent who understands local market conditions. Sure, we all know that right now it is a seller’s market and that price gains are slowing. It is still important to look at local conditions, right down to the homes and condos that sold next door and down the street.

Another tip for a quick home sale is to focus on the first few weeks. Because there’s not necessarily an overwhelming amount of inventory to look over, buyers often become suspicious of homes that site.

Lastly, put yourself in a buyer’s frame of mind. Because 9 in 10 buyers search online, they know what features are standard in homes like yours. Before you list it is important to see how your home compares to the competition, and realistically think about repairs that would be worth while.

Are you interested to see what your home is worth? Check out this free property analysis tool that will compare your home or condo to others in the area!