The Emerald Coast has seen unprecedented growth in property values and sales prices for coastal real estate in recent years. The old axiom that “there is just so much waterfront property,” has been the impetus of these escalating values. With the unmatched beauty and quality of life to be found in this area, it seems that everyone wants to own a piece of paradise. One recent published article stated that only Southern California has seen more growth in real estate values than the resort areas of the Panhandle of Northwest Florida. 

For the past several years, new condo projects have appreciated at up to 20% per year along the Emerald Coast. When purchased in pre-construction phases, the return has often been much greater, particularly when calculated against funds invested. And condos are not the only game. Single family homes at or near the Gulf or the bays and commercial property have also seen dramatic increases in value. Vacant land and lots have been the real prize, increasing in value sometimes up to 60% in a single year, particularly for waterfront property. A headline in a local newspaper declared that investing in Emerald Coast real estate was “like winning the lottery.” 

The real estate investment opportunities have been enhanced through the use of IRS Code §1031 (commonly known as Tax-Deferred Real Estate Exchange) that allows real estate investors to exchange their property for “like-kind” property without current recognition of capital gains. For more information and a detailed description of §1031, please see our accompanying article. 

We are active investors in Emerald Coast real estate and are knowledgeable about investment opportunities and techniques including §1031 tax-deferred exchanges. We are ready to show you the ends-and-outs and to help you “Invest in Paradise.”