The Emerald Coast is known for its pristine sand beaches and sparkling waterfronts, so it’s no surprise there’s such a high volume of residential areas in the 30A region. Florida is a popular vacation spot for people worldwide, meaning many of the beach towns have become heavily influenced by this tourism.
The Emerald Coast and neighborhoods such as Watersound Beach remain a quiet paradise where families and couples can find the good life by the sea. Many of the neighborhoods, like Alys Beach, are luxury communities with amenities and services that make life there both convenient and upbeat.
Luxury properties are constructed and renovated continually in the area, so locking down the high caliber homes of Watersound Beach real estate, Dune Allen estates, and Alys Beach requires the finesse of a great agent now more than ever. When it comes to finding a real estate agent, the task seems relatively simple, as everyone has a mail flier or runs into a lawn sign frequently with the name of a local agent.
However, choosing a luxury property agent is more complex than picking a name at random. These properties are significant investments, and often, the organized communities only deal with specific vetted agents. Luckily, the tips below will help you find the agent that will lock down your dream home on the coast while saving you both time and money.
Communication is key
House hunting can feel like a full-time job for buyers, and the schedule of a busy real estate agent reflects the same. Many agents will juggle many buyers with different needs, agendas, and schedules, all while trying to close on homes as quickly as possible. It’s important to note that an agent isn’t someone you see every day, so most of the communication you have with your agent will be virtual until you can go on showings with them, and then the rest of the process may be virtual as well.
This brings up a key concept when searching for an excellent real estate agent: quality communication. You want to make sure that even though your agent is successful, they are equally accessible. When you are meeting with agents, ask about their communication style. Many agents will have “business hours” where they can be contacted throughout the day. If they don’t have an answer or their parameters don’t fit yours, that’s a sign to find a different agent.
Emerald Coast real estate is a hot commodity, and new properties are snapped up fast. You don’t want to lose your bid because your agent didn’t reply on time.
Ask about the neighborhoods
Emerald Coast real estate is a particular market. The different areas and neighborhoods, while close together and similar at first glance, operate very differently in how they sell. Some neighborhoods are gated, organized communities with a much more complicated process to view and buy their homes. These communities are run by a central organization that often has standing relationships with specific local agents who get their first pick with showings.
It’s crucial to secure an agent that knows the 30A area well and has sold properties there for a reasonable length of time. This means they will know the differences between the neighborhoods and tell you if Alys Beach, Watersound Beach, or another area is best for you.
Check their portfolio
Nearly all residential real estate agents work on commission, meaning they get paid when the home sells. Naturally, this means plenty of real estate agents want to help buyers and sellers with the luxury property deals that have a high price tag, but with higher price tags come more details. There is generally a long list of negotiations and discussions as properties get more expensive, and you want to know your agent understands these processes.
Ask to see an agent’s portfolio if they don’t already have one listed on their website. You can also ask to see the sales they have helped buyers close on in the past. These assets prove that your agent is frequently entrusted with luxury property by their broker and sellers. Their past sales illuminate experiences with high-ticket properties and if the agent could negotiate the prices of these homes in favor of their clients.
Make a list of questions
Before working with an agent, you have to know how they operate since all agents work differently. You’ll want to make a list of information about your needs and preferences. Organize the details of your price range, your desired home specifics, your household, and your timeline.
Once an agent knows these details, they’ll be able to answer whether they are the right fit for you. Some agents won't be able to match your needs with their experience, relationships, and schedule. Ask them about their training and business — these questions will also bring up discussions about the available property in the area and the current market based on the agent’s knowledge.
Listen to your heart
Real estate is a profoundly personal industry that isn’t just about finding you the right four walls but the right lifestyle for every client. Your home is one of the most important purchases you’ll make, so you want to find someone you get along with — who understands you and your needs.
There is also a good chance you will spend a lot of time with your real estate agent. You want to like this person enough to have a casual conversation with them frequently. Sometimes you won’t get the right vibe from an agent, and it is essential to listen to that voice. Doing so will make your house-hunting process much more pleasant and productive.
The luxury homes on the Emerald Coast require a special touch. From Alys Beach to Watersound Beach real estate, Melissa Clements has been closing on the gems of the Emerald Coast for years. To begin your search with them, reach out at any time. Melissa and her team would be happy to help you find the home of your dreams!