THE ULTIMATE INVESTOR’S GUIDE TO GULF COAST REAL ESTATE

By Meredith Amon, Licensed in Alabama and Florida
Guided by Integrity. Backed by Experience. Search the Gulf with Meredith Amon

gulf coast rental investment properties orange beach gulf shores alabama

When it comes to real estate investing along the Gulf Coast, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Whether you’re purchasing with reinvested capital, exploring a 1031 exchange, or entering the market for the first time, success depends on a few key questions:

  • How do you plan to use the property?

  • How long do you intend to hold it?

  • What type of return are you seeking—monthly income, long-term appreciation, or both?

As a full-time real estate advisor and Gulf Coast resident, I help investors answer these questions and match them…

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Who Owns the Beach? Understanding Waterfront Property Rights Across the Gulf Coast

By Meredith Amon, Licensed in Alabama and Florida
Guided by Integrity. Backed by Experience. Search the Gulf with Meredith Amon

Gulf Coast Orange Beach Land Ownership


Where the Sand Meets the Law: Gulf Coast Beach Rights Explained

As a real estate advisor living on Ono Island and working along the entire Gulf Coast, I’m often asked, “Can someone anchor their boat near my beach?” or “Where does my private property end?” These are valid questions—especially in a region where property laws can change significantly from one state to the next.

Let’s explore the differences in coastal property rights between Alabama, Florida, Mississippi, and Louisiana, using plain language and real-life scenarios…

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Fireworks Over Eden and SeaSpray: A Summer Night in Perdido Key


By Meredith Amon, Licensed in Alabama and Florida
Guided by Integrity. Backed by Experience. Search the Gulf with Meredith Amon.

Fireworks Perdido Key Florida

There’s something about a summer night on the Gulf Coast that feels like magic—and this photo captures one of those unforgettable moments. I took this from the Florida side of Old River, facing west toward the iconic silhouettes of Eden Condominiums and SeaSpray in Perdido Key. The buildings themselves are striking with their unique architecture, but it was the fireworks that truly lit up the sky and brought the water to life.

From where I stood, the reflections danced across the water, creating a mirrored show of lights that reminded me why so many…

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Waterway Village & Meyer Park: A Smart Move for Investors, Rental Properties & Vacation Homes


By Meredith Amon, Licensed in Alabama and Florida
Guided by Integrity. Backed by Experience. Search the Gulf with Meredith Amon

Gulf Shores Alabama Investments Waterway Village Meyer Park

Tucked just north of LuLu’s and the Intracoastal Waterway lies one of the most promising pockets of Gulf Shores real estate: Waterway Village and Meyer Park. As a local real estate advisor and full-time resident of the Gulf Coast, I’m seeing firsthand how this neighborhood is evolving—and why it’s the perfect location for investment properties, vacation homes, long-term rentals, and short-term rental income.

With walkability, upcoming infrastructure like the Waterway Village Pedestrian Bridge, and a growing demand for…

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Ono Island Construction Impact Fees

Ono Island Impact Fees Construction New Homes

Explore the current road, bridge, landscaping, and marine-related impact fees for new construction and renovation on Ono Island in Orange Beach, Alabama. These fees are subject to change and enforced by the POA and Baldwin County permitting authorities.

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BUILDING STRONG FROM THE GROUND UP: WHY STEM WALL FOUNDATIONS ARE desirable IN NEW CONSTRUCTION ON ONO ISLAND AND ORANGE BEACH, ALABAMA


By Meredith Amon | www.searchthegulf.com

Ono Island Home Construction

As a real estate advisor and homeowner on Ono Island, I’ve had the privilege of helping clients build and buy beautiful homes on the Gulf Coast. One topic that often comes up with new construction—especially in areas like Orange Beach and Ono Island—is what kind of foundation makes the most sense in a coastal setting. Lately, more and more high-end builders and discerning homeowners are opting for stem wall foundations—and for good reason.

What Is a Stem Wall Foundation?

A stem wall foundation consists of a poured concrete footer at the base, followed by…

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How to Find the Perfect Investment Property in Orange Beach and Gulf Shores: A Checklist for Vacation Homes with Rental Potential

Orange Beach Gulf Shores Investment Rental Condo Guide

By Meredith Amon, Licensed in Alabama and Florida

Purchasing an investment property that you can use personally for part of the year and rent out the rest of the time is a great way to make your beach getaway work for you financially. However, it’s important to understand the complexities involved in selecting the right property and making sure it aligns with your investment goals. To make your process smoother, I’ve created this checklist with everything you’ll need to consider when buying a vacation rental or investment property in Orange Beach or Gulf Shores.

Investment Property Checklist:

1. Speak with…

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The Wealth of New Construction Homes in Foley, Alabama: A Growing Market with Plenty of Options

By Meredith Amon, Licensed in Alabama and Florida

Foley Alabama New Construction Homes For Sale

Foley, Alabama, is experiencing a significant surge in new construction homes, and it's no surprise why. Located just a short drive from the beaches of Gulf Shores and with a rich history and vibrant local culture, Foley offers an ideal combination of convenience, affordability, and growth potential. As an expert real estate advisor in the area, I’ve seen firsthand how these newly built homes are contributing to the development of the city, creating exciting opportunities for buyers looking for modern, energy-efficient, and thoughtfully designed properties.

Here’s a closer look at some of the…

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Orange Beach vs. Gulf Shores: What’s the Difference?

By Meredith Amon, Licensed in Alabama and Florida

Orange Beach and Gulf Shores Alabama

As a real estate advisor here on the Gulf Coast, I often get asked by clients—especially those not familiar with the area—what the difference is between Orange Beach and Gulf Shores. While they’re both beautiful coastal communities in lower Alabama, each has its own unique characteristics that make them stand out. Let me break down the key differences and help you understand what each community has to offer, whether you’re looking for a vacation home, a second property, or considering making this your permanent home.

How Far Are Orange Beach and Gulf Shores From Each Other?

While Orange Beach and Gulf Shores are neighboring communities,…

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Boating and Fishing in Orange Beach, Alabama: A July Adventure


By Meredith Amon, Licensed in Alabama and Florida

Orange Beach Alabama Fishing Boating July

If you’re looking to experience the best of the Gulf Coast, July is one of the most exciting months to be out on the water in Orange Beach, Alabama. Whether you're a seasoned fisherman or just love a peaceful boat ride, Orange Beach offers everything you need for an unforgettable summer on the water.

As a resident and real estate advisor in the area, I’ve spent countless hours boating and soaking in the beauty of this part of the Gulf Coast. Here’s a closer look at what you can expect when you head out onto the water in Orange Beach this July.

Perfect Conditions for Boating

July in Orange Beach is synonymous with sunny…

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