By Meredith Amon, Licensed in Alabama and Florida

If there’s one thing I’ve learned after over 20 years of selling luxury homes, it’s that the Gulf Coast real estate market is always evolving. Every year brings new buyer trends, investment opportunities, and shifting dynamics influenced by everything from interest rates to feeder markets. But 2025 is shaping up to be different. This year, we’re seeing a fascinating blend of luxury, technology, and lifestyle-driven decisions shaping how buyers and sellers approach real estate along the Alabama and Florida coasts.
Luxury Real Estate: Bigger, Smarter, More Exclusive
Buyers in 2025 aren’t just looking for waterfront properties—they want turnkey luxury. The demand for high-end new construction is soaring, but what’s truly standing out is the emphasis on smart home technology, sustainability, and private resort-style amenities.
I recently toured a new waterfront estate on Ono Island that featured a full solar backup system, a dedicated wellness suite, and yacht access right from the backyard—no expense spared. This is the level of customization today’s buyers expect.
What’s Driving Demand in 2025?
- Smart homes are the new standard – Buyers expect AI-driven security systems, app-controlled lighting, and energy-efficient technology built into their properties.
- Dockside luxury is in high demand – Boat slips with deep water access, hurricane-rated lifts, and even in-slip fueling options are top priorities.
- Exclusive coastal communities are thriving – Areas like Ono Island (link), Perdido Key, and select pockets of 30A are experiencing low inventory, strong appreciation, and high demand from feeder markets like Texas, Georgia, and Tennessee.
Boating & Yachting: The Ultimate Waterfront Lifestyle
As a Gulf Coast real estate expert, I always remind my buyers: your home isn’t just about the house—it’s about the lifestyle. And nothing defines our market quite like boating.
2025’s Biggest Shift?
More buyers than ever are factoring in their yacht or boat purchase alongside their home search. I’ve had multiple clients tell me:
"I’ll buy the house, but only if my boat fits the dock."
Key Trends in Waterfront Living
- Bigger boats require bigger slips – Demand for 60+ foot yacht slips in private residences is at an all-time high.
- Hybrid and electric yachts – Eco-conscious buyers are showing increased interest in high-performance electric runabouts, such as AX/E models.
- Private marinas & club memberships – Buyers unable to secure private docks are looking into high-end marina communities offering VIP access and concierge services.
Feeder Markets: Who’s Moving to the Gulf Coast?
Over the past two years, I’ve worked with more out-of-state buyers than ever before. The top feeder markets driving demand in 2025:
- Texas (Dallas, Houston, Austin) – High-income buyers seeking second homes, waterfront estates, and tax-friendly investments.
- Tennessee (Nashville, Memphis, Knoxville) – Increasing interest from vacation home buyers and yacht owners.
- Georgia (Atlanta) – Many buyers are relocating full-time for the coastal lifestyle.
- Illinois & the Midwest – Strong demand for snowbird retreats and investment properties.
My Advice for Buyers & Sellers in 2025
For Buyers:
- Act fast on high-end waterfront properties. The best homes are selling quickly, often off-market before reaching MLS.
- Work with an agent who has direct builder and seller connections. A strong network can give you access to exclusive listings before they hit the market.
For Sellers:
- Presentation is everything. Today’s buyers want modern, move-in-ready homes with high-end finishes.
- Leverage digital marketing. Staging, professional video marketing, and social media exposure are critical for attracting serious buyers.
Final Thoughts
The Gulf Coast real estate market in 2025 is all about luxury, lifestyle, and exclusivity. Whether you’re looking for a private island estate, a deep-water yacht slip, or an investment property in a high-demand area, now is the time to make your move.
I’d love to help you navigate this market. Let’s talk Gulf Coast real estate today.
Email me: meredith@searchthegulf.com
Call or text: (970) 389-2905
Explore listings: www.searchthegulf.com
#searchthegulf #meredithamon #becausewelivehere
Search Coastal Alabama Homes and Real Estate For Sale
$499,999
22324 Us Highway 98, Foley
0
Beds
0
Baths
0 SqFt
Land
MLS® # 386218
Kim Ward Realty, LLC PHONE: 251-979-7101
$499,900
↓ $19,100
507 W Beach Boulevard Unit 304, Gulf Shores
3
Beds
2
Baths
987 SqFt
Residential
MLS® # 371341
RE/MAX of Gulf Shores
$499,900
↓ $10,000
427 E Beach Boulevard Unit 361, Gulf Shores
2
Beds
2
Baths
832 SqFt
Residential
MLS® # 375825
RE/MAX Paradise
$499,900
24114 Perdido Beach Boulevard Unit 702, Orange Beach
1
Bed
1
Bath
723 SqFt
Residential
MLS® # 367152
Realty Executives Gulf Coast PHONE: 251-978-4078
$499,900
22739 Inverness Way, Foley
4
Beds
3
Baths
2,740 SqFt
Residential
MLS® # 380037
Bellator Real Estate LLC Gulf PHONE: 251-978-1431
$499,900
29101 Perdido Beach Boulevard Unit 102, Orange Beach
2
Beds
2
Baths
887 SqFt
Residential
MLS® # 385048
Goode Realty, LLC
$499,701
449 Raley Farms Drive, Gulf Shores
5
Beds
3
Baths
2,409 SqFt
Residential
MLS® # 385606
DHI Realty of Alabama, LLC
$499,500
↓ $25,500
407 W Beach Boulevard Unit 379, Gulf Shores
2
Beds
2
Baths
820 SqFt
Residential
MLS® # 353979
Brett R/E Robinson Dev OB Main: 251-981-6180
$499,500
1010 W Beach Boulevard Unit 1004, Gulf Shores
2
Beds
2
Baths
1,042 SqFt
Residential
MLS® # 378110
McAlister Realty, LLC PHONE: 251-609-0579
$499,000
↓ $1,000
25805 Perdido Beach Boulevard Unit 414, Orange Beach
3
Beds
2
Baths
1,142 SqFt
Residential
MLS® # 360812
Keller Williams AGC Realty - Orange Beach 251-504-1171
$499,000
Ono North Loop West, Orange Beach
0
Beds
0
Baths
0 SqFt
Land
MLS® # 385116
RE/MAX of Orange Beach PHONE: 251-981-2400
$499,000
↓ $26,000
9660 Harbour Drive, Elberta
2
Beds
2
Baths
980 SqFt
Residential
MLS® # 384759
RE/MAX Paradise
By Meredith Folger Amon | November 4, 2025
Ono Island Boat Ramp: A Friendly, Owner-Focused Guide
Welcome
I’m Meredith Folger Amon, a Gulf Coast real estate advisor and Ono Island homeowner. Neighbors, friends, and homeowners often ask me how to make launch days effortless at our ramp. Here’s the upbeat, plain-English version I share—focused…
By Meredith Folger Amon | November 3, 2025
By Meredith Folger Amon | November 3, 2025
By Meredith Folger Amon | November 3, 2025
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