The Emerald Coast, Florida's Best Kept Secret!

In the 1500's, when the Spanish conquistadors first discovered the Emerald Coast of Florida, they found an untamed, waterfront paradise, which they described as the "Fountain of Youth." Can you imagine their emotions as they first gazed upon the sugar-white beaches and emerald green waters of the Gulf of Mexico! Later, they discovered the cool, clear waters of Florida's inland springs, and were sure they had discovered the source of eternal youth. You too can experience the "magic of discovery" offered by the beautiful Emerald Coast of NW Florida.

The "Emerald Coast" refers to roughly 100 miles of shoreline located in the NW Florida panhandle, encompassing the general area between Panama City and Perdido Key. Today, the Emerald Coast is a premier vacation destination and a great place to live. The area has a rich history. Since the time of the Civil War, the Emerald Coast has hosted many profitable businesses, including lumber, turpentine, commercial fishing, and open range cattle operations.

Regardless of your lifestyle or business choices, the Emerald Coast has something to offer you. Our major cities offer job opportunity, major medical facilities, educational institutions, military bases, great shopping, fabulous dining, superb entertainment, and marvelous recreation. The area's demographics are well balanced and suitable for almost every lifestyle.

The Emerald Coast is very popular with permanent residents, visitors, and investors alike. You can't beat the weather! The average year round temperature is about 67 degrees, with about 320 days of Florida SUNSHINE per year. Hurricanes, of course, are a fact of life in Florida, but with adequate preparation, they are nothing to fear. A new bridge under construction over East Bay just East of Pensacola offers a much-needed hurricane evacuation route to the North via I-10.

Let's not forget the kids! The famous "Miracle Strip" atmosphere along the Emerald Coast offers endless activities and attractions for the young ones. Our beautiful beaches, water parks, arcades, zoo's, and other resort attractions will keep the kids permanently entertained, whether on vacation or just on a weekend outing from home.

Attractive income and property tax rates are also a major feature of Emerald Coast life. The State of Florida does not impose a state income tax and local communities offer very reasonable property tax rates, as well as a $25,000 homestead exemption and other property tax exemptions.

Education is important to all of us, and Emerald Coast schools and colleges are highly ranked. Our mild climate is also conducive to year round sports programs for both children and adults alike.

If you enjoy a variety of recreational activities, the Emerald Coast is the place for you! If you like golf, the opportunities are endless. Our inter-coastal waterways, the Gulf of Mexico, and our fabulous white sandy beaches offer great opportunities for sailing, fishing, scuba diving, swimming, sunbathing, and surfing. If you're a nature lover and enjoy hiking, canoeing, and photography, you'll love our many state parks and nature preserves. A major attraction of the Emerald Coast is the Gulf Islands National Seashore. This series of nature preserves along the Gulf of Mexico offers a close look at the natural fauna and flora of the coastal plains.

If your dream is to experience the "MAGIC" of Emerald Coast life, let me help you fulfill that dream. I'll be happy to provide you with any information you may need to make an informed decision about real estate in our community. Feel free to contact me at any time.