Search The Gulf

Explore Condos vs. Homes on the Gulf Coast: What’s Right for You?

By Meredith Amon, Licensed in Alabama and Florida

If you’re considering a move or investment along the Gulf Coast, one of the first decisions you’ll face is whether a condo or single-family home is the better fit. I work with buyers every day—from first-time beach homeowners to seasoned investors—who are weighing the lifestyle, financial, and long-term benefits of each.

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but there is a perfect fit for your needs. Let's walk through the pros and cons of each so you can make an informed decision with confidence.

Explore available condos on the Gulf Coast here:
???? www.searchthegulf.com/condos

Why Choose a Single-Family Home?

A home offers a completely different experience—one that many buyers seek when looking for more privacy, space, and long-term value.

Benefits of Home Ownership:

• More Space & Privacy: Homes often come with larger living areas, garages, and outdoor space for entertaining.

• Customization: You can remodel, add a pool, or build out without seeking HOA approval.

• Boater-Friendly Options: Many waterfront homes feature private docks, boat lifts, and direct access to the Gulf or back bays.

• No Shared Walls: Enjoy the peacefulness that comes with detached living.

Things to Consider:

• Maintenance: You’re responsible for all repairs, landscaping, and upkeep.

• Insurance Costs: Homes—especially those near the water—can require separate flood, wind, and homeowners insurance.

• Initial Cost: Homes generally have higher upfront costs compared to condos of similar square footage.

Start your search for single-family homes here:
www.searchthegulf.com/homes

Which One is Right for You?

I always ask my clients a few simple questions:

• Do you want to rent the property when you’re not using it?

• Do you enjoy maintaining a home, or would you prefer a lock-and-leave lifestyle?

• Do you need a boat dock or yard?

• Are you planning to live here full-time or part-time?

For some, a low-maintenance condo with a view of the Gulf is the dream. For others, it’s a coastal cottage with a private dock on Ono Island. The good news? I can help you explore both.

Visit www.searchthegulf.com to browse active listings and filter by what matters most to you—location, price, HOA fees, boat access, rental potential, and more.

Whether you're relocating, retiring, or simply dreaming of your own place by the water, I’d be honored to guide you. Let’s find your perfect fit.

#searchthegulf #meredithamon #becausewelivehere
 

Search Coastal Alabama Homes and Real Estate For Sale, $600,000 - $700,000

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$700,000

401 E Beach Boulevard Unit 1704, Gulf Shores

2 Beds 2 Baths 1,237 SqFt Residential MLS® # 385977

RE/MAX on the Coast

$700,000

↓ $75,000

15129 Nettle Oak Circle Unit 2, Magnolia Springs

3 Beds 4 Baths 2,696 SqFt Residential MLS® # 374166

EXIT Realty Lyon & Assoc.Fhope PHONE: 251-605-1316

$699,999

27770 Canal Road Unit 2503, Orange Beach

3 Beds 3 Baths 2,088 SqFt Residential MLS® # 386607

RE/MAX Realty Professionals

$699,900

↓ $9,100

16223 Brigadoon Trail, Gulf Shores

3 Beds 3 Baths 2,236 SqFt Residential MLS® # 374605

Coldwell Banker Coastal Realty

$699,900

↓ $25,000

3425 Ponce De Leon Court, Gulf Shores

4 Beds 2 Baths 1,170 SqFt Residential MLS® # 378331

EXIT Realty Gulf Shores

$699,900

↑ $100

Lot 60 Wedgewood Drive, Gulf Shores

4 Beds 3 Baths 2,391 SqFt Residential MLS® # 377741

Keller Williams AGC Realty - Orange Beach PHONE: 251-923-8390

$699,900

↓ $49,100

23092 Island Oak Lane Unit 65, Orange Beach

2 Beds 3 Baths 1,390 SqFt Residential MLS® # 370650

Wellhouse Real Estate West, LL

$699,500

↑ $500

401 E Beach Boulevard Unit 1804, Gulf Shores

2 Beds 2 Baths 1,237 SqFt Residential MLS® # 380295

Beachball Properties

$699,500

201 W 13th Street Unit 2 (b Is On The Building), Gulf Shores

3 Beds 4 Baths 2,334 SqFt Residential MLS® # 379910

RE/MAX of Gulf Shores

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$699,000

3254 State Highway 180, Gulf Shores

3 Beds 2 Baths 1,456 SqFt Residential MLS® # 386853

EXIT Realty Gulf Shores

$699,000

↓ $50,000

27008 Perdido Beach Boulevard Unit 203, Orange Beach

3 Beds 2 Baths 1,395 SqFt Residential MLS® # 385539

eXp Realty Southern Branch PHONE: 251-550-3730

$699,000

↓ $40,000

6084 Sawgrass Circle, Gulf Shores

4 Beds 3 Baths 1,680 SqFt Residential MLS® # 375814

South Coast Properties

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