How to Know if a Property Qualifies for Short-Term Rentals in Orange Beach, Alabama

How to Know if a Property Qualifies for Short-Term Rentals in Orange Beach, Alabama

By Meredith Amon, Licensed in Alabama and Florida

As a real estate advisor on the Gulf Coast, one of the most common questions I receive is:
"Can I rent this property short term?"

Whether you're looking to invest in a beach home, purchase a second residence, or simply earn income when you're not using the property yourself, understanding Orange Beach's short-term rental rules is key to making a smart and compliant decision.

Here’s what you need to know about determining if a home or condo in Orange Beach, Alabama qualifies for short-term rentals.

What Is Considered a Short-Term Rental in Orange Beach?

The City of Orange Beach defines a short-term…

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Top 10 Things to Know About Hardie Board Siding on the Gulf Coast

Top 10 Things to Know About Hardie Board Siding on the Gulf Coast

By Meredith Amon, Licensed in Alabama and Florida

If you're building or buying a home on the Gulf Coast, chances are you've heard of Hardie Board siding. As a local real estate advisor with over 20 years of experience selling luxury homes—and someone who calls the coast home myself—I've seen just how popular and practical this siding option has become in our coastal climate.

From Orange Beach to Gulf Shores, and especially on Ono Island, Hardie Board (also called fiber cement siding) is a top choice for both builders and homeowners. Here's what you need to know about this durable and attractive siding option before making your decision.

1. Built for the Coast

Hardie…

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Understanding New Construction Inspections in Baldwin County, Alabama

Understanding New Construction Inspections in Baldwin County, Alabama

By Meredith Amon, Licensed in Alabama and Florida

If you’re building a new home on the Gulf Coast—especially in Baldwin County or on Ono Island—it’s essential to understand the inspection requirements that come with pulling a building permit. As a real estate advisor and homeowner on Ono Island, I’ve helped many buyers and builders navigate this process, and staying compliant from the start is key to avoiding costly delays and penalties.

Whether your project involves new construction, additions, or even small trade upgrades like electrical or HVAC, inspections are mandatory. Let’s break down what you need to know.

Permit Timelines and Compliance

Once a building…

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Building Smarter on the Gulf Coast with Insulated Concrete Form Construction

Building Smarter on the Gulf Coast with Insulated Concrete Form Construction

By Meredith Amon, Licensed in Alabama and Florida

As someone who has spent over two decades helping buyers and sellers navigate the luxury home market—and as a Gulf Coast resident—I can tell you firsthand that building a home here isn’t just about beauty. It’s about durability, efficiency, and resilience. That’s why I’m seeing more and more homeowners and builders turning to Insulated Concrete Form (ICF) construction.

If you’re considering building a new home or coastal retreat here on the Alabama Gulf Coast, it’s worth understanding why ICF is becoming one of the most sought-after construction methods in areas like Orange Beach, Gulf Shores, and Ono Island.

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Virtual Tour at Mariner Pass: A Boater’s Paradise on Cotton Bayou

Virtual Tour at Mariner Pass: A Boater’s Paradise on Cotton Bayou

By Meredith Amon, Licensed in Alabama and Florida

Explore current listings at Mariner Pass and across the Gulf Coast on www.searchthegulf.com

I recently hosted a virtual showing at Mariner Pass Condos in Orange Beach, Alabama for a couple who live out of state and were interested in finding a low-maintenance, boater-friendly property here on the Gulf Coast. We connected over FaceTime, and I walked them through the condo and the entire complex, giving them a real-time feel for the space, the views, and the amenities.

Mariner Pass is tucked along Cotton Bayou, just before Perdido Pass, which makes it incredibly convenient for anyone who loves to be out on the water. The Gulf…

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Your Guide to Home Builders on Ono Island, Alabama

Your Guide to Home Builders on Ono Island, Alabama

By Meredith Amon, Licensed in Alabama and Florida

As a homeowner on Ono Island, I’m lucky to live in a place where conversations with neighbors often turn into deep dives about construction materials, elevation plans, and smart design. Whether it’s over coffee, during a walk around the island, or while chatting with local contractors and builders, I’m constantly learning about new building trends, innovative ideas, and the unique challenges of constructing homes on our barrier island.

If you're considering building a home on Ono Island, it’s important to work with a builder who understands not only luxury coastal design, but also the specific demands of island living. From elevated…

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Why Luxury Home Buyers Are Moving to Orange Beach, Alabama

WHY LUXURY HOME BUYERS ARE MOVING TO ORANGE BEACH, ALABAMA 

By Meredith Amon, Licensed In Alabama and Florida

As a real estate advisor and homeowner in Orange Beach, Alabama, I’m often asked why so many luxury buyers are making the move to our Gulf Coast paradise. Whether it’s for a second home, a vacation escape, or a well-planned investment property, the allure of Orange Beach continues to grow—and I’m here to share exactly why.

Explore luxury listings in Orange Beach

Limited Inventory, Lasting Value

What I love most about Orange Beach is that we still feel like a hidden gem. Unlike some overbuilt coastal areas, Orange Beach has a limited amount of space left to develop, especially when it comes to waterfront and boating-access…

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The Ultimate Guide to Fishing and Boating on Ono Island

THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO FISHING AND BOATING ON ONO ISLAND

By Meredith Amon, Licensed in Alabama and Florida

Ono Island is a premier destination for boaters and anglers, offering unparalleled access to the Gulf of Mexico, inshore fishing spots, and deep-sea adventures. Whether you’re searching for the best fishing charters, expert marine services, or cutting-edge electronics, this guide covers everything you need to know about boating and fishing in this exclusive waterfront community.

Thinking of making Ono Island your boating and fishing paradise? Browse waterfront properties with private docks.

Best Fishing Spots Around Ono Island

One of the things I love most about living on Ono Island is the strong boating and fishing community.…

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Boating in Orange Beach, Alabama: Top 10 Questions to Ask Before Buying a Boat

Boating in Orange Beach, Alabama: Top 10 Questions to Ask Before Buying a Boat

By Meredith Amon, Licensed in Alabama and Florida

www.searchthegulf.com

Boating is at the heart of the Orange Beach lifestyle, and as a real estate advisor and homeowner on Ono Island, I’ve seen firsthand how owning the right boat can completely transform your time on the water. Whether you’re fishing in the back bays, heading out into the Gulf, or cruising to waterfront restaurants, having the right vessel makes all the difference.

I often get questions from homeowners and prospective buyers about what kind of boat is best for living in Orange Beach or on Ono Island. So, I’ve put together the top 10 questions I’m most often asked—along with my answers based…

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Your Guide to Buying New Construction on Ono Island

Your Guide to Buying New Construction on Ono Island

By Meredith Amon, Gulf Coast Expert Real Estate Advisor

www.searchthegulf.com

Why Build New on Ono Island?

As an Ono Island homeowner and real estate advisor, I understand the unique benefits of building a new home on this private, boater-friendly island. Whether you’re looking for a custom waterfront retreat or a luxury investment property, new construction offers modern amenities, energy efficiency, and the ability to create a home that fits your exact needs.

Here’s why so many buyers choose to build on Ono Island:

✔ Personalized Design – Create a home tailored to your lifestyle, from expansive porches to chef’s kitchens.
✔ Gold Fortified Construction – Lower insurance costs and…

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