Found 56 blog entries tagged as homes.


Why Most Homes on Ono Island and in Orange Beach Are Wood-Framed — Not Concrete Block

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

Ono Island Orange Beach Alabama Home Construction Frame


As a real estate advisor specializing in luxury homes and new construction on Ono Island and across Orange Beach, one of the most frequent questions I hear from buyers relocating from Florida or other coastal markets is:
"Why are homes here wood-framed instead of built with cinder block?"

It’s a great question—and the answer lies in local building practices, engineering strategy, regional climate conditions, and cost-effective fortified construction. Here’s a breakdown of what’s behind the frame-first…

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Orange Beach vs Destin: A Gulf Coast Boater’s Paradise Comparison

Introduction: My Gulf Coast Love Affair

By Meredith Amon | Gulf Coast Real Estate Advisor | Licensed in Alabama and Florida


Hello. I’m Meredith Amon, a Gulf Coast real estate advisor and boating enthusiast. If there’s one question I hear all the time from friends, clients, and fellow beach-lovers, it’s this: Orange Beach, Alabama or Destin, Florida – which is better? As someone who lives on Ono Island in Orange Beach and has spent countless days soaking up the sun in both places, I know firsthand that each coastal gem has its own magic. In this post, I’ll take you on a personal journey comparing vacation appeal, real estate investment potential, lifestyle quality, and…

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Building a New Construction Home in Orange Beach? Here's What You Need to Know

By Meredith Amon, Licensed in Alabama and Florida

Orange Beach Alabama New Construction Homes

If you're considering building a new home in Orange Beach, Alabama—whether it’s your forever home, a vacation retreat, or a smart investment—it's essential to understand the steps and requirements before you break ground. As a real estate advisor with over 20 years of experience in luxury home sales and new construction, I help buyers navigate the entire process—from securing the perfect lot to working with builders and understanding local permitting procedures.

Below, I’ve outlined everything you need to know about the required permits and documentation, based on the latest checklist provided by the City of…

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A Peaceful Bike Ride on Peninsula Drive: My Favorite Street on Ono Island

By Meredith Amon, Licensed in Alabama and Florida

Ono Island Harbour


View Ono Island real estate at www.searchthegulf.com

Living on Ono Island offers countless little moments of peace, but one of my favorite ways to unwind and reconnect with the beauty around me is by taking a bike ride along Peninsula Drive. Just the other evening, with the sun beginning to dip and the air still warm from the day, I joined a dear friend and neighbor for a leisurely ride through one of the most scenic stretches of the island—the Harbour.

As a full-time homeowner and real estate advisor on Ono Island, I never take for granted how magical this place is. And every time I bike down Peninsula Drive, I’m…

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Sandpiper DRive Ono Island

 

Exploring Sandpiper Drive on Ono Island: Waterfront Living & Boating Access

By Meredith Amon, Licensed in Alabama and Florida

Sandpiper Drive, located on the eastern side of Ono Island, is a unique and highly desirable street that offers a mix of waterfront properties, some with direct access to deep water and others situated along protected canals. Whether you’re a boater looking for seamless water access or simply seeking a serene coastal retreat, Sandpiper Drive offers a variety of home options tailored to different lifestyles.

Waterfront Access & Bridge-Locked Considerations

One of the key things to understand about Sandpiper Drive is how boating access varies between properties. Some homes along this…

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Orange Beach Waterfront Market: Are Homes with Boat Docks and Lifts a Better Investment?

By Meredith Amon, Licensed in Alabama and Florida

Ono Island Waterfront Homes For Sale

Orange Beach is a premier destination for waterfront living, attracting buyers who prioritize boating access and luxury waterfront amenities. As of February 24, 2025, market data shows that homes and condos with private boat docks and lifts continue to command higher prices than properties without direct boating access.

Historically, January and February are slower months for the real estate market in Orange Beach. This year is no exception, with limited inventory and fewer sales transactions year-to-date. However, as we move into spring, we will likely see an increase in new listings and more closed…

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Top 2025 Boats for Orange Beach, Alabama: The Best Vessels for Cruising, Fishing & Anchoring at Robinson Island


By Meredith Amon

Fishing Boats Orange Beach Alabama

Owning the right boat in Orange Beach, Alabama isn’t just about transportation—it’s about fully embracing the coastal lifestyle. Whether you’re gliding through the back bays, fishing near the islands, or anchoring at Robinson Island for an afternoon of sun and relaxation, having the perfect boat makes all the difference.

For 2025, I’ve curated a list of some of the best boats that fit the Gulf Coast way of life. Based on insights from local captains, experienced boaters, and friends who spend most of their time on the water, I’ve learned that choosing the right vessel can transform the boating experience.…

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Ono Island Boating Homes For Sale

Hello there! I’m Meredith Amon, a proud homeowner and seasoned real estate advisor on Ono Island in Orange Beach, Alabama. Over the past years, I’ve had the pleasure of helping families find their dream homes along the Gulf Coast. Today, I want to share my personal insights, expert tips, and experiences on navigating the vibrant real estate market here on Ono Island—a true gem of the Gulf Coast.

Why Ono Island and Orange Beach?

When I first discovered Ono Island, I was captivated by its unique blend of relaxed island living and proximity to the dynamic lifestyle of Orange Beach. Many buyers are now searching for “Ono Island real estate” or “homes for sale in Orange Beach Alabama,” and it’s easy to see why. The region offers pristine beaches,…

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Embracing the Future: Homes with Color-Changing Glass, Windows, and Doors | Electrochromic

As an expert real estate advisor specializing in Orange Beach, Alabama, and Ono Island, I’ve seen firsthand how innovative design trends can transform a home. One of the most exciting advancements in recent years is the use of glass, windows, and doors that change color electronically. These dynamic elements not only add a wow factor but also improve energy efficiency, privacy, and the overall aesthetic of a home.

What is Color-Changing Glass?

Known as smart glass or electrochromic glass, this technology uses an electric current to adjust the tint, transparency, or color of glass panels. With the touch of a button—or even an app on your phone—you can…

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Dramatic Architectural Details That Elevate Luxury Homes on the Gulf Coast

As a real estate advisor on the Gulf Coast, I’ve had the privilege of experiencing some of the most stunning luxury homes in this coastal paradise. One of the things I enjoy most about my work is seeing how dramatic architectural details can transform a house into an extraordinary retreat—and significantly increase its resale value. Whether you’re buying or selling, these are the features that make a home stand out in the market and leave a lasting impression.

Gulf Coast Luxury Homes

Here are some of my favorite luxurious architectural details and why I love them:

1. Through-View Designs: Framing the Outdoors

One of my absolute favorite features, especially here on the Gulf Coast, is the…

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