30A Buyer's Guide | Morgan Palmer

D I S C OV E R YO U R P E R F EC T L I F E S T Y L E & H O M E O N 3 0 A

BUYER’S GUIDE

to 30A

C O U R T E SY O F M O R GA N PA L M E R

where coastal dreams come true...

Dear Future Neighbor, Congratulations, you have found the ultimate paradise along the Gulf Coast in Northwest Florida! Buying real estate is a rewarding adventure and I’m so happy to have the opportunity to bring your real estate dreams to life here.

In doing so, I aim to instill knowledge and confidence while helping you successfully navigate through every step of the process.

In this book, you will find an overview of our picturesque stretch of Highway 30A and each unique beach town plus an outline of everything you need to know about the buying process. My mission is to deliver world-class customer service and an unforgettable, positive experience.

I look forward to getting to know you and your real estate goals through this process.

Sincerely,

Morgan Palmer

WHY 30A? The Beach The pristine shoreline with sugar white sand and crystal clear, turquoise waters of the Gulf of Mexico has to be the #1 draw to South Walton. The bright white sand is made almost entirely from tiny pieces of oval quartzite. This rare and striking beach composition comes from thousands of years of erosion and natural phenomena that carried the quartz from the Appalachian Mountains to our coastline. Pristine white sand contributes to the breathtaking light aquamarine color of the Gulf of Mexico, where the waves gently lap along the shoreline. There simply is no other beach quite like it in the world.

The Lifestyle The laidback, yet energetic lifestyle on the Emerald Coast appeals to the slow-paced beach bums and active, entertainment-seekers alike. Spanning roughly 20 miles, Scenic Highway 30A is made up of 16 side by side communities, each offering a unique vibe. There is a beach community for everyone on 30A and surrounding areas, whether you seek solitude, a full calendar of local events, art and music inspiration, golf, walking distance to coffee shops and boutiques, or views of the water.

Exceptional Homes There is no shortage of character and charm in the homes you’ll find in South Walton. Home styles range from humble beach cottages to expansive Gulf front estates to traditional family homes. As a relatively new area in the country, new developments are dotted all across the coast offering a plethora of new construction opportunities in addition to existing properties.

Expanding Access While the beaches of South Walton are within reasonable driving distance from many Southeast cities, we also have two airports. The Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport (ECP) is a 20-minute drive to Panama City Beach and about a half-hour drive to Rosemary Beach. It has just seven gates, so the check-in and security process is a breeze, and there are direct flights to various hubs across the United States as well as international destinations. The Destin-Fort Walton Beach Airport (VPS) is an approximately 40- to 50-minute drive to the west end of 30A and is also a small and easy travelling airport. VPS typically offers around 50 nonstop flights daily.

Not a High Rise in Sight No high rises here! The residents of 30A are very protective of preserving its natural appeal, so in 2006, Walton County banned all high density towers. The building height restricted is limited to four stories or 50 feet. Not only are the views protected, but the overall denstiy of the area is kept down, making living and visiting here a much more special and distinctive experience.

Nature Preservation Throughout South Walton County, there are long stretches of preservation and forest areas along with beautiful Florida State Parks. In fact, 40% of the land in South Walton County is dedicated to preservation and state forest areas. It preserves the natural beauty of the area, protects from future over development, and contributes to preserving strong property values for the local housing market.

The beaches at these Gulf front state parks happen to be some of the absolute best spots!

Coastal Dune Lakes Take a drive along 30A and you’ll see lots of lakes situated very close to the Gulf of Mexico, but these aren’t your ordinary, run-of-the-mill lakes. They are globally rare Coastal Dune Lakes with unique and delicate ecosystems. Found in only four places throughout the world, these brackish lakes are fed by fresh water creeks and springs and when higher water levels occur, they often breach the barrier of the beach line and flow into the Gulf, and on occasion, the Gulf flows back into the lake created a truly spectacular sight. Walton County claims the honor of having the largest concentration of Dune Lakes in the world!

NATIONAL A

FUELING CURRENT &

36 Hours: Florida Panhandle This area has long been a beloved vacation spot for Southerners who drive each summer to swim in clear turquoise waters, play in powder-white sand and then slap a 30A bumper sticker on their cars. The appeal for many visitors is the pick-your-paradise aspect, with communities with scruffy charm like Grayton Beach just down the road from perfectly polished Seaside.

Scenic Highway 30A is a twenty-four-mile road running along the sugar-sand beaches of South Walton County in the Florida Panhandle. But it’s also an area—and, even more so, a vibe—anchored by a special slice of #beachlife across some sixteen coastal communities, from the boho artist enclave of Grayton Beach to the tony villas of Alys Beach.

ATTENTION

& FUTURE GROWTH

How a Once Unpaved Stretch of Highway Became One of Florida’s Hottest Rental Markets The area along Scenic Highway 30A has seen explosive growth over the past two decades, with the development of new communities with golf courses, bike trails, boutique stores, and high-end restaurants.

The Ultimate Guide to Florida’s 30A—The South’s Best-Kept Beach Secret At first, beachgoers landed on Scenic Highway 30A the same way sand settles on the seashore: slowly and without much fanfare. But then a wave began to build and—bam!—all of a sudden, this unassuming stretch of roadway, just 24 miles long, was one of the most popular destinations in the South.

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MIRAMAR BEACH IDENTIFYING THE COMMUNITY FOR YOU IS PARAMOUNT Visit Miramar Beach and make your way through one of South Walton’s most diverse neighborhoods. From antique shopping to beach volleyball, this vibrant beach neighborhood has something for everyone. This active beach neighborhood boasts the nation’s first YOLO Board store as well as a driving range, fitness studios, tennis courts and more than three miles of walking trails.

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A few questions to ask SEASCAPE yourself...

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CENTER NT Y TDC

Variety is the name of the in Seascape, where the num activities at your fingertips rivaled by the number of w relax. If you like to stay bus in Seascape. With eight tennis courts, multiple bike a championship golf course full-scale fitness facility, this neighborhood is full of “b the beach” activities.

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SEASCAPE What entertainment / activities do you enjoy?

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WAT E R S O U N D A LYS B E AC H

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S E AC R E S T

— one of South Walton’s most active, family-friendly beach neighborhoods.

This beach neighborhood is known for its fun atmosphere and variety of options for groups at places like Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort and Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa.

ROS E M A RY B E AC H I N L E T B E AC H

Your ideal home is located in the center of DUNE ALLEN these answers, and it’s within reach!

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When you think of your fondest SANDESTIN Explore thousands at of acres beach, memories theof beach, where accommodations, pools, tennis courts, were they? golf courses and more in Sandestin

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This beach neighborhood three coastal dune lakes, wh extremely rare bodies of wate in only a handful of places acr world. Dune Allen also offer than five miles of breathtakin in Topsail Hill Preserve Stat — making it a dream destinat nature lovers and ecosplorers unwind and relax in this la beach neighborhood.

SEASCAPE

SEASIDE MY FAVORITE SPOTS: Bud & Alley’s Rooftop Bar Amavida Coffee & Tea Shops at Ruskin Square Weekly Farmer’s Market

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It’s easy to see why Seaside was named “Best Beach on Earth” for families by Travel + Leisure magazine. A central hub of South Walton, this iconic town is a pioneer of the New Urbanism movement and became a model for the development of Scenic Highway 30A. Picket fences frame pastel-colored beach cottages in this friendly town where locals and visitors gather for festivals, concerts, and fun.

WATERCOLOR

MY FAVORITE SPOTS: Wine Bar

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Perfect Pig WaterColor Beach Club Fish Out of Water

The relaxed coastal lifestyle of WaterColor is evident in its inviting Southern-style architecture with wide covered porches, classic metal roofs, and expansive entertaining spaces. Delivering the charm of smalltown life, fine dining, boutique shopping, and outstanding amenities all just steps away in this pedestrianfriendly community nestled along the shores of beautiful Western Lake.

SEAGROVE MY FAVORITE SPOTS: Cafe Thirty-A Seagrove Village MarketCafé New Shops and Restaurants at Greenway Station Clay 30A Garden & Gifts

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One of the early settlements in South Walton, Seagrove Beach has stood the test of time. Where its namesake thick groves of windswept trees still stand, you’ll find a diverse mix of classic beach homes, Florida cottages, and beachside condominiums. A popular family destination, Seagrove offers shops, restaurants, and a wide array of recreational activities.

GRAYTON BEACH

MY FAVORITE SPOTS: Red Bar

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Grayton Beach State Park Black Bear Bread Co.

The epitome of a cool beachside town, Grayton Beach is one of Scenic Highway 30A’s original establishments.

Embrace a free-spirited, laid back vibe in this quaint, eclectic community sheltered by old oaks. A popular gathering spot for locals, this beach is the ideal place to gather for barbecues and beach bonfires and the only beach in Walton County that allows 4-wheel drive vehicles to drive on the beach - with a permit! One of the most popular state parks on 30A, Grayton Beach State Park offers a beautifully untouched stretch of shoreline miles of trails, and access to the Coastal Dune Lake, Western Lake.

WATERSOUND BEACH MY FAVORITE SPOTS: WaterSound Beach Club Deer Lake State Park

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The gulf front WaterSound Beach community features one the most breathtaking stretches of coastline along Scenic Highway 30A. Beautiful wooden boardwalks transport you to one of 30A’s most private and pristine beaches. Both sophisticated and stylish, the gated community offers homeowners a luxurious, coastal lifestyle.

WATERSOUND ORIGINS MY FAVORITE SPOTS: Ambrosia 30A Friends 30A Burger Bar Weekly Farmer’s Market Origins Golf Course Lake Powell Access

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The Watersound Origins® community is often described as a “Coastal Village,” a place where neighbors know each other’s names, kids ride bikes with friends, and dogs (and their owners) greet each other on evening walks. This master-planned community has become one of the most desirable neighborhoods for full-time residents and second home owners for its exceptional amenities, quiet location yet close proximity to 30A, and a welcoming atmosphere.

INLET BEACH

MY FAVORITE SPOTS:

CLICK TO SEARCH LISTINGS

Donut Hole amici 30A Italian Kitchen Shaka Sushi and Cocktails Willow & Mercer Camp Helen State Park

On the eastern end of 30A, Inlet Beach is nestled between the Gulf of Mexico and Lake Powell. This once sleepy beach community is being rejuvenated with new developments like the upscale shopping center 30Avenue and the Crossings at Inlet Beach. Discover the quaint, private community of Carillon Beach, just across the Bay County line, with its luxurious resort amenities and charming town center.

ROSEMARY BEACH MY FAVORITE SPOTS: Pescado La Crema Tapas & Chocolate Rosemary Beach Trading Co. Sugar Shack Pish Posh Patchouli’s

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Rosemary Beach is a welcoming beach town designed to reunite the concepts of community and connectivity in a quaint town setting. Designed by Miami-based Duany Plater-Zyberk and Company, Rosemary Beach embraces the principles of traditional town planning with a pedestrian friendly design. With its brick-lined streets, charming town center, unique shops and locally-owned cafes, locals and guests alike delight in this picturesque community. Whether enjoying the weekly farmers’ market, a lively game of catch on the town green or dining alfresco under the stars, memories made here last a lifetime.

ALYS BEACH MY FAVORITE SPOTS: NEAT Tasting Room & Bottle Shop SummerStory Home Furnishings Fonville Press

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Iconic white architecture and towering palms lead to the Gulf side paradise of Alys Beach. With its lush green lawns and striking Mediterranean influenced courtyard-style homes, this stunning town’s design is based on the principles of New Urbanism. Alys Beach raised the bar on The community is the first development in Northwest Florida to be certified green by the Florida Green Building Coalition. The luxuriant zero-entry Caliza pool and its open-air restaurant are just two of the exclusive amenities available to Alys Beach residents.

KAIYA BEACH RESORT

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A new resort-style community designed with connection and comfort in mind, Kaiya brings a refreshing new experience to 30A: a lifestyle of feeling carefree and cared-for, from expertly curated fine dining and recreational adventures to the concierge service and VIP benefits of the Kaiya Club. Kaiya Beach Resort nurtures balance with luxurious homes that blur the line between indoor and outdoor living and spacious floor plans balance the excitement of family life with the quiet of private moments.

SEACREST MY FAVORITE SPOTS: LaCo Mexican Fare Lola Coastal Italian Seacrest Beach Trading Company

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Escape to the quiet beach community of Seacrest, nestled along Scenic Highway 30A, found both east and west of Alys Beach. Large sand dunes and dense coastal shrubbery frame the mix of homes, condominiums, and new developments. Camp Creek Lake, one of South Walton’s 15 coastal dune lakes, is one of the most sought- after locations for photographing the perfect 30A sunset.

SANTA ROSA BEACH MY FAVORITE SPOTS: Gulf Place Town Center Blue Mountain Creamery Topsail Hill Preserve State Park Stinky’s Fish Camp

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The west end of 30A encompasses the communities of Blue Mountain Beach, Santa Rosa Beach, Dune Allen, and bayside properties in North Santa Rosa Beach and Point Washington. Each area has distinctive offerings united by the easy-going and welcoming atmosphere found throughout South Walton. From beach to bay, discover area schools, unique shops, gorgeous parks, and local restaurants.

MIRAMAR BEACH MY FAVORITE SPOTS: Grand Boulevard Sandestin Golf & Beach Resort Silver Sands Outlet Mall

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With an abundance of high-rise condominiums, beachside homes, premier shopping centers, and mouthwatering restaurants, there’s always something to do in Miramar Beach and the neighboring Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort. Exceptional shopping experiences, unforgettable coastlines, and some of the freshest seafood around makes this destination a tried-and-true favorite.

DESTIN

MY FAVORITE SPOTS: Marina Cafe The Henderson Spa Crab Island Henderson Beach State Park

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Destin Harbor Boardwalk Destin Commons

Known as the “World’s Luckiest Fishing Village,” Destin began as a little sleepy fishing town and has grown into a bustling tourist destination with something for everyone from high-rise, harbor-side condominiums to gated, amenity-rich neighborhoods. Destin is famous not only for its majestic sugar-sand coastline, but also for its award-winning golf courses, delicious and lively restaurants, and family friendly activities.

PANAMA CITY BEACH MY FAVORITE SPOTS: Pier Park Shell Island Gulf World Marine Park The Grand Marlin Restaurant & Oyster Bar Capt. Anderson’s Restaurant & Waterfront Market

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With 27 miles of beaches, a vast array of waterfront properties, and exciting new developments, Panama City Beach is one of the Gulf Coast’s most vibrant destinations. Proudly sharing its pristine beaches, a calendar full of renowned concerts and musical events, an international airport, and competitively priced beachfront accommodations with residents and guests alike, it’s a Southern city with its own flavor.

curious about other communities?

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THE NUMBERS DON’T LIE...

A SNAPSHOT OF THE SOUTH WALTON TOURISM INDUSTRY FROM 2022

With over 5.3 million visitors in *CY2022, total economic impact was over $7.2 billion.

Despite a decrease in occupancy of -8.6%, room rates increased significantly from CY2021 by +15.1%, resulting in a RevPAR increase of +5.1%.

A decrease in occupancy and a smaller travel party size contributed to a slight decrease in overall visitors to the Walton County area.

TDT collections increased 5.8% in CY2022 compared to CY2021, Largely due to the increase in room rates.

Number of jobs in Walton County attributable to tourism decreased -1.6%, however wages paid to these employees rose +14.9%. *CY2022 = Calendar Year 2022

ANNUAL SNAPSHOT CY2022

5,303,300

3,691,300

$4,886,893,300

$7,232,602,100

TOTAL

ROOM

DIRECT

ECONOMIC

↑

1.2%

SPENDING

↑ 0.7%

1.4%

$$ vs. CY2021

IMPACT

↑ 0.7%

$$

56.0%

$413.29

$231.44

OCCUPANCY

ADR

RevPAR

↑ 15.1%

↑ 5.1%

↑

vs. CY2021

NIGHTS

↑

VISITORS

8.6%

6

about me MORGAN PALMER 30A Real Estate Specialist

I’m delighted to have the opportunity to share with you the unique charm and opportunities that the 30A area has to offer. With my 20 years of experience in this vibrant community, I’ve developed a deep understanding of its lifestyle and values.

My goal is to establish a trusted relationship with you, tailored to fit your individual needs. Whether you’re interested in buying, selling, or simply exploring the area, I’m here to offer personalized guidance and support. I value a personal approach, focusing on understanding and meeting your specific preferences and objectives.

I hope this guide has been useful in providing you with insights and information about 30A. I am committed to being a reliable and comforting resource, ensuring you feel informed and at ease throughout your real estate journey, without any pressure.

Please don’t hesitate to contact me with any questions or for more detailed information. I’m here to assist you in a way that aligns with your unique circumstances and helps you navigate the 30A real estate market with confidence.

Looking forward to the opportunity to work with you and help you discover the perfect fit in this exceptional community, at a pace that suits you best.

Let’s connect soon!

(850) 699-3401 morganpalmer@bpfla.com morganon30a.com

Not only did you make us feel that we were important clients, you made us feel that we were your only clients in the way you responded to emails and phone calls so quickly. Honestly, I don’t think we could have had a better team caring for us.

Thank you so very much.

- Dan A. Exceptionally knowledgeable, supremely helpful, and genuinely fun. Morgan went above and beyond on locating our dream property. We cannot recommend her more highly.

- Dr. Brent + Shae Crumpton I’ve never worked with a more professional agent.

I especially liked that she got us around to see so many places. She knows the Panhandle. We could see where the Panhandle knows her. She’s from down there. That history is important.

- William T.

6 WAYS I CAN ADD VALUE TO YOUR BUYING PROCESS My goal is to provide you with all the information you need to make an informed decision and I would behonored to have that opportunity.

01.

Buying a home typically requires a variety of forms, reports, disclosures, and other legal and financial documents. A knowledgeable real estate agent will know what’s required in your market, helping you avoid delays and costly mistakes. Also, there’s a lot of jargon involved in a real estate transaction; you want to work with a professional who can speak the language.

02.

A great real estate agent will guide you through the home search with an unbiased eye, helping you meet your buying objectives while staying within your budget. I can also a great source when you have questions about local amenities, utilities, zoning rules, contractors, and more.

03.

You want access to the full range of opportunities. Using a cooperative system called the multiple listing service, I can help you evaluate all active listings that meet your criteria, alert you to listings soon to come on the market, and provide data on recent sales. I can also save you time by helping you winnow away properties that are still appearing on public sites but are no longer on the market.

04.

There are many factors up for discussion in any real estate transaction—from price to repairs to possession date. As a real estate professional who’s representing you, I will look at the transaction from your perspective, helping you negotiate a purchase agreement that meets your needs and allows you to do due diligence before you’re bound to the purchase.

05.

Most people buy only a few homes in a lifetime, usually with quite a few years between purchases. Even if you’ve bought a home before, laws and regulations change. My experience handling many transactions over the course of my career can put you at ease.

06.

A home is so much more than four walls and a roof. And for most buyers, a home is the biggest purchase they’ll ever make. Having a concerned, but objective, third party helps you stay focused on the issues most important to you when emotions threaten to sink an otherwise sound transaction.

ACT AS AN EXPERT GUIDE

OFFER OBJECTIVE INFO RMATION AND O PINIONS

EXPANDED SEARCH POWER

STAND IN YOUR CORNER DURING NEGOTIATIONS

ENSURE AN UP-TO-DATE EXPERIENC E

BE YOUR ROCK DURING EMOTIONAL MOMENTS

let’s find your piece of paradise

MORGAN PALMER 3 0 A R E A L E S TAT E S P EC I A L I S T (850) 699-3401 m o rg a n p a l m e r @ b p f l a . co m m o rg a n o n 3 0 a . co m