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
$514,900
↓ $5,000
1010 W Beach Boulevard Unit 608, Gulf Shores
2
Beds
2
Baths
1,042 SqFt
Residential
MLS® # 378412
Swiger & Company swigerandcompany@gmail.com
$514,900
↓ $1,100
24589 Broken Sound Loop, Orange Beach
5
Beds
3
Baths
2,511 SqFt
Residential
MLS® # 377252
Roberts Brothers Inc. Gulf Coa PHONE: 619-772-2261
$513,000
↓ $5,000
1007 West Beach Boulevard Unit 34, Gulf Shores
2
Beds
2
Baths
1,152 SqFt
Residential
MLS® # 383524
Luxury Coastal Vacations, LLC
$512,000
26750 Perdido Beach Boulevard Unit 105, Orange Beach
1
Bed
1
Bath
642 SqFt
Residential
MLS® # 371951
Bella Beach Properties Main: 251-981-2431
New
$510,000
27800 Canal Road Unit 113, Orange Beach
1
Bed
1
Bath
878 SqFt
Residential
MLS® # 387290
Stable Properties DIR: 251-234-5300
$510,000
↑ $11,000
3812 Chesterfield Lane Unit 18a & 18b, Foley
6
Beds
4
Baths
2,906 SqFt
Residential
MLS® # 367507
Brett R/E Robinson Dev OB Main: 251-981-6180
$510,000
12411 County Road 91, Lillian
5
Beds
2
Baths
2,154 SqFt
Residential
MLS® # 386261
Warner Realty
$509,900
↓ $10,000
12361 Reunion Place, Foley
2
Beds
2
Baths
2,340 SqFt
Residential
MLS® # 383263
RE/MAX of Orange Beach PHONE: 251-228-2115
$509,500
26750 Perdido Beach Boulevard Unit 707, Orange Beach
1
Bed
1
Bath
642 SqFt
Residential
MLS® # 382309
SeaMitchell Realty & Gulf Beach Rentals PHONE: 251-979-5613
$509,000
24568 Perdido Beach Boulevard Unit 806, Orange Beach
2
Beds
2
Baths
1,030 SqFt
Residential
MLS® # 386807
Bayside Real Estate Group
$509,000
↓ $16,000
457 E 2nd Avenue, Gulf Shores
3
Beds
2
Baths
912 SqFt
Residential
MLS® # 361273
Keller Williams AGC Realty-Da PHONE: 251-716-6325
$509,000
↓ $10,000
5381 Wolfhead Avenue, Orange Beach
3
Beds
3
Baths
1,131 SqFt
Residential
MLS® # 382405
REMAX OF ORANGE BEACH-CANAL BR CELL: 251-747-5710
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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