The new year brought about new predictions regarding the US Housing Market. Among those were rising home prices, decreasing inventory due to stalled construction and growing ease between lenders and loans.

Now that we are a quarter of the way through with 2014, it is time to reflect and potentially regroup on the status of the market.

Clear Capital®, the premium providers of data and solutions for real estate asset valuation and collateral risk, recently released its market report with data through March 2014. As a whole the data indicates that housing prices remained steady and the keys for continued stability will lie within the transition from investor to traditional home buyer demand.

What does this mean for real estate in Alabama and Florida? Well, keeping in line with the national averages, the area market suggests higher median prices that are becoming steadier. However, something to be noted is that the struggle for inventory, be it for investment purposes or traditional home buying, is more stable than the national average with a solid number of new listings, according to the latest housing data released by Florida Realtors®.

To see how real estate in Perdido Key, Pensacola and Orange Beach is doing specifically, check out our monthly housing market report.

Since 1996, Pointe South has been a proven leader in the real estate industry. We pride ourselves in being one of the most caring companies along the Gulf Coast, uniting under one common goal of helping families find homes. What is our greatest asset in achieving this goal? Our Realtors.

Compiled of distinct members, our team’s success relies on each individual and their ability to help you with all of your real estate needs.

Specializing in waterfront properties for over 35 years as a private investor, Jim Bomar brings both years of experience and local knowledge to table. Whether you are an astute investor or first-time home buyer, Bomar is familiar with the process and willing to walk you through the steps of ownership. He primarily focuses on selling real estate in Florida’s Perdido Key area, in addition to Alabama’s Orange Beach and Gulf Shores regions. His professional experience and personal expertise is undeniable.

If you are looking to buy, or even sell a Gulf front condominium, contact Jim at 850.291.9916.

For more featured agents, continue reading our Real Estate blog next week. If you cannot wait, click here to meet the rest of the Pointe South Team.

It's no secret that the Gulf Coast of Florida boasts some of the most beautiful beaches around, but now our secret is out! Pensacola Beach and Navarre Beach were just named to Tripadvisor's Best Beaches of 2014.

If you already own Gulf Coast real estate, or happen to vacation with us, then you already know how wonderful our sandy white shores, emerald water and fabulous weather are. And, now two area's we represent are receiving the recognition they deserve.

Pensacola Beach, a popular destination anytime, but especially in spring, was noted at the #19 spot for offering a great mix of history, activities, events and dining. Navarre Beach came in at #25 on the Best Beaches of 2014 list for its serenity and natural beauty. We couldn't agree with these assessments more!

Come experience one or both of these area destinations with Pointe South. Who knows, why you're here, you may just discover your next real estate investment, long term rental home or favorite destination!

When we hear the word “insurance” we are left dwelling on the potentially negative thoughts of what COULD happen, and while not as exciting as living in your Northwest Florida home, it is important to safeguard it.

Luckily, here on the Gulf Coast, we do not typically have to deal with freezing rain and ice storms, however, we do have a significant storm season that should come into play when it comes to protecting your home. If disaster strikes, the last thing you should have to worry about is money. Your focus should be on reclaiming home security and mental stability.

That being said, there are some things you should know about your homeowner’s insurance. First of all you should know what it covers, and for that matter what it does not. In the event of certain storms, fire and vandalism, a typical policy will pay for damages. What is not covered depends on the area and the agency supplying your insurance. A general policy seems to exclude earth movements (landslides and earthquakes), faulty zoning and flooding.

Given our location’s attraction to hurricanes and flooding seeking supplemental insurance is the best way to ensure your homes safety in the event of a disaster.

While it may seem pessimistic to harp on, it is important to protect yourself and your investment from some of life’s biggest surprises.

Visit our February 2014 Monthly Market Reports for additional information on Sold properties:

Perdido Key Market Report

Pensacola Beach Market Report

We are excited about the Grand Opening of our new office in Orange Beach, AL!

With Realtors licensed in Florida and Alabama, we are here for all of your property needs.

New Listing in Orange Beach

It is a great time to list your home or investment property for sale!

Now, with 4 offices along the Gulf Coast, stop by and let us discuss the value of your property.

We want you to be fully informed about the local Real Estate market and our team of Realtor’s are here for you!

Are you are searching for luxury along Alabama's Gulf Coast? We are proud to announce the addition of a magnificent vacation condo to the Pointe South Vacation Rentals family, Turquoise Place in Orange Beach!

This vacation condo resort is breathtaking. Turquoise Place offers fantastic condos amenities sure to delight your traveling companions while at the beach. Choose the Pointe South three bedroom condo at Turquoise Place in Orange Beach to truly indulge during your next Gulf Coast beach vacation in Alabama. Allow the views from your private balcony to draw you down to the sand. When back in the rental, take advantage of upgrades such as granite counters and stainless in the kitchen, whirlpool tub in the master bath, private grill and more.

Take a walk through the stunning grounds to find amazing features such as multiple pools, indoor, zero-entry and outdoor, poolside cabana, lazy river, onsite spa and much more. You can even enjoy a workout with the family at the fitness center, or play a friendly match on the tennis courts. The little ones are also sure to love the playground. Reserve your stay at Turquoise Place condos today!

If you are renting, the amount of liberty you face with remodeling is limited. Big-ticket items like vanity replacements over pedestal sinks may be out of the question, but there are some do-it-yourself tricks within your lease agreement to achieve the maximum amount of bathroom storage.

Utilize the space over your toilet. Often this space is underutilized. Shallow shelves and cabinets leave enough room to easily access the toilet but function well enough for the extra bathroom necessities.

Additionally, hanging hooks behind the door are great for robes and clothing. If you are opting for a space to hang your wet towel, look into placing a towel bar for the needed support. Do not forget you have space above the door, a perfect spot for a shelf for all kinds of bathroom fixings. For supplementary shower storage, look for an organizer. You can also look to installing a medicine cabinet. It may intrude slightly into your already small bathroom, but will fit the extra necessities you have.

Ultimately, the best way to get the most space for your not so big bathroom is to use less stuff. Really, that is the first rule of organization in general.

Get ready for a great time when you head to Perdido Key to fling fish during the annual Flora-Bama Interstate Mullet Toss!

Our friends at Pointe South Vacation Rentals are also offering 20% off your stay in a Perdido Key condo when you attend this three day event. Not a bad excuse to plan a little spring break for yourself!

And, yes, we did say "mullet toss." Each year hundreds of Perdido Key locals and visitors flock to the Flora-Bama Lounge to try their luck at tossing a slimy mullet across the state line. No, really. You stand in a circle and attempt to fling your fish from the beaches of Northwest Florida to the sands of Alabama's Gulf Coast. This event may sound ridiculous but a portion of the proceeds even benefit a great cause, the Community Drug & Alcohol Council, as well as other youth programs in the area.

The Gulf Coast's Greatest Beach Party will also be in full swing during this event. Come on out for a vacation in Perdido Key and save 20% on your stay when you vacation at Grand Caribbean East or Grand Caribbean West condos.

All signs indicate an improving real estate market with fewer foreclosures and short sales. That is not to say that they are not still prevalent, just perhaps not as widespread as a few years ago.

In a nutshell, short sales occur when the loan on the property becomes larger than the sale price, thus asking the bank to take less than the amount owed. From a buyer’s perspective, this means distressed sellers and the deal of a lifetime.

Sometimes a short sale can have two loans. The large loan is the one that is being shorted and while the smaller loan is dismissed. Two loans, from two banks means two processes of approval. With double the lenders that could mean double length in closing. With the right real estate professional, it does not have to be that way.

Whether you are selling a home as a short sale or a buying one, look for an agent who has experience with the process. Our experiences professionals at Pointe South will be happy to guide you through the short sale system.

Warm, elegant and inviting, this luxurious Perdido Key condominium is nestled within the east building of the Marseilles complex.

Relish in the grand style of this four bedroom, four full bathrooms and one half bathroom home that features not only spacious living areas, but boasts two large balconies with breathtaking views of the Gulf of Mexico. Dramatic first impressions include travertine flooring throughout the common areas, 10’ ceilings with floor to ceiling glass and soaring views of emerald green water and sandy white beaches.

Spanning roughly 2414 square feet and sitting on approximately 200 feet of gorgeous Gulf Coast beach, this gated, rent restricted residence is like new. With only two units per floor and coded elevators, enjoy the benefits of a completely private home with the added bonuses of community amenities. Marseilles features include a heated indoor pool, outdoor pool, steam room, sauna and fitness center.

Built in 2004, the Marseilles complex is strategically placed in the heart of Perdido Key and just a short drive from a variety of family activities, shopping venues and fine dining.

Interested in this listing? Contact Susan Carleton at 850-361-4154 for more information.