Area Real Estate News & Market Trends

You’ll find our blog to be a wealth of information, covering everything from local market statistics and home values to community happenings. That’s because we care about the community and want to help you find your place in it. Please reach out if you have any questions at all. We’d love to talk with you!

April 20, 2026

Exploring Foley, Alabama

Why People are Falling in Love with Foley, Alabama! 

Nestled between the sugar-white beaches of Gulf Shores and the rolling farmland of Baldwin County, Foley is a unique blend of Southern charm and coastal living. It’s the kind of place where you can enjoy a quiet morning under a moss-draped oak and still be at the beach before lunchtime.

Life here moves at a slightly slower pace. Neighbors wave, conversations last a little longer, and there’s a sense of community that’s hard to find in more crowded coastal areas. It has that “front porch on a summer evening” feel that draws people in and makes them want to stay.

Downtown Foley — History with Heart

Historic Downtown Foley captures the essence of small-town America. Brick sidewalks, restored buildings, and a welcoming atmosphere make it a place where past and present come together seamlessly. Antique shops, art galleries, and locally owned cafés line the streets, creating a setting that feels both nostalgic and vibrant.

Every corner of downtown tells a story, and it’s the kind of place where you can spend an afternoon exploring without any real agenda—just enjoying the character and charm that make it special.

Heritage Park — The Heart of the Community

At the center of it all is Heritage Park, a gathering place that brings the community together year-round. From seasonal festivals and farmers markets to concerts and holiday events, this park is where Foley comes alive.

It’s not uncommon to see families spread out on blankets, listening to live music under the evening sky. It’s a place where the community shows up, connects, and celebrates together.

The Hotel Magnolia — A Piece of Living History

Standing proudly in downtown Foley since 1908, the Hotel Magnolia is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. With its grand columns, sweeping porch, and timeless architecture, it represents a piece of the area’s rich history.

Inside, the charm continues with high ceilings, chandeliers, and a classic Southern elegance that’s hard to replicate. Whether you’re visiting or simply passing by, it’s a reminder of Foley’s deep roots and enduring character.

Family Fun at OWA

OWA Parks & Resort brings a different kind of energy to Foley. With rides, restaurants, and a beautifully designed entertainment district, it offers something for all ages.

Whether you’re spending the day on roller coasters, enjoying live music, or taking an evening stroll along the lakefront, OWA adds a modern layer of fun and activity to the area.

Shopping, Dining, and Local Favorites

For those who enjoy shopping, Tanger Outlets offers a wide range of options, from well-known brands to local favorites. It’s a popular stop for both residents and visitors looking to spend a relaxed afternoon browsing and finding great deals.

Foley is also home to a variety of local dining spots, where you can grab a cup of coffee, enjoy a casual brunch, or simply sit and take in the surroundings.

Coastal Alabama Farmers & Fishermen’s Market

One of Foley’s true local gems is the Coastal Alabama Farmers & Fishermen’s Market. Open year-round, it offers fresh produce, Gulf seafood, local honey, homemade goods, and artisan products that reflect the best of Baldwin County.

It’s a place where you can connect with local growers and makers while enjoying a simple Saturday morning tradition that feels authentically Southern.

Why People Love Foley

Foley is more than just a location—it’s a lifestyle. It offers the convenience of being close to the beach without the congestion, along with a growing list of amenities that continue to make everyday living easier and more enjoyable.

At the same time, it has held onto the sense of community and character that makes it feel like home. It’s a place where neighbors still look out for each other, where traditions matter, and where life feels a little more grounded.

For those considering a move to the Gulf Coast, Foley often becomes the place that checks all the boxes—proximity, value, growth, and a strong sense of belonging.

Whether you’re buying, selling, or simply exploring the idea of coastal living, Foley offers something special that’s worth taking a closer look at.

April 20, 2026

Fish Will Fly This Weekend!

The Flora-Bama Mullet Toss Is Back for 2026 — Yes, It’s Exactly What It Sounds Like

If you’ve lived on the Gulf Coast for even a minute, you’ve probably heard about the Mullet Toss.

If you haven’t… welcome to one of the most perfectly ridiculous traditions you’ll ever witness.

The world-famous Interstate Mullet Toss at the Flora-Bama Lounge & Oyster Bar is happening this weekend, April 24–26, 2026. And yes, people really do stand in Florida and throw a fish into Alabama. On purpose. For fun.

The goal is simple: throw a mullet (the fish, not the haircut) as far as you possibly can across the state line. That’s it. No hidden meaning. No deeper life lesson. Just raw, competitive fish-throwing.

What started as a small beachside idea years ago has turned into one of the biggest events on the Gulf Coast. Thousands of people show up every year, and somehow it just keeps getting better, louder, and more entertaining.

But don’t think this is just about tossing fish. This is a full-blown, three-day beach party. There’s live music, beach bars, food, contests, and enough people-watching to keep you entertained even if you never touch a mullet. You’ll see first-timers, seasoned “professionals,” and people who clearly decided five minutes ago this was a good idea.

The event takes place right at the state line, which is what makes the whole thing possible in the first place. Kids usually toss earlier in the day, followed by the main event in the afternoon, and by that point, the energy is exactly what you’d expect from a beach party that involves flying fish.

If you’re planning to go, here’s your reality check. This is one of the busiest weekends of the year. Parking will test your patience. The crowd will grow quickly. And the sun will absolutely show up. Get there early, wear something comfortable, and accept the fact that you’re about to be part of something a little chaotic—and a lot of fun.

And if crowds aren’t your thing, no problem. Go early, stay for a bit, and then retreat somewhere quieter. You’ll still get the experience without feeling like you just survived a spring break reunion.

Here’s the thing though—this event says a lot about life on the Bama Coast. It’s laid back, a little unpredictable, and doesn’t take itself too seriously. People come here for the beaches, but they stay for the lifestyle, the community, and yes… apparently, the opportunity to throw a fish across a state line.

For anyone thinking about living here, this weekend is a perfect snapshot of what the area is all about. It’s fun, it’s social, and there’s always something going on. Not every weekend involves airborne seafood, but you get the idea.

Whether you decide to toss, watch, or just shake your head and laugh, the Mullet Toss is one of those things you have to experience at least once.

And who knows—you might surprise yourself and end up with a pretty decent throwing arm. 

March 31, 2026

Baldwin County's February 2026 Housing Report

Baldwin County Market Update: Coastal Prices Surge While Inventory Grows

Baldwin County’s housing market stayed active in February—and if you’ve been watching the coast, you already know… things are heating up.

Resort Areas Are Leading the Charge (Orange Beach, Gulf Shores south of Canal Rd, Fort Morgan)

The resort market saw a big jump in prices and sales activity:

·   Average price: $925K (up significantly from last year)

·   Sales: 122 homes sold (up from 96)

·   Sales volume: $112.8M (major increase)

Homes are taking about the same time to sell (~131 days), but here’s the kicker—inventory dipped slightly, meaning demand is still strong.

- Land is also gaining traction, with higher prices and more sales, even though fewer lots are hitting the market.

Bottom line: The coastal market isn’t slowing down—it’s gaining confidence.


Traditional Residential Market: More Options, Steady Prices. Across the rest of Baldwin County, the market is a little more balanced:

·   Average price: $402K (slightly down year-over-year)

·   Days on market: 69 days (homes selling faster)

·   Sales: 355 homes sold (up from 323)

·   Inventory: More new listings hitting the market

Bottom line: Buyers have more choices, and homes are still moving.


 My Take (The Real Talk Version)

This market isn’t crashing. It’s splitting.

·  The coast is appreciating and holding demand

·  The inland market is balancing out with more inventory

That’s actually a healthy market—and it creates opportunity on both sides if you know how to play it.


If you want to break down what this means for your home or your buying power, I’ll give it to you straight—no fluff, no guesswork.

Posted in Market Updates
March 26, 2026

BREAKING NEWS: Disabled Veterans Just Got a Major Homebuying Advantage in Alabama

There are moments when legislation actually moves the needle—and this is one of them.

A new bill passed by the Alabama Senate is set to make homeownership significantly more accessible for Alabama’s most deserving heroes: 100% permanently disabled veterans.

And frankly? It’s about time.


 

 What Just Changed (And Why It Matters)

Under current Alabama law, veterans with a 100% permanent disability already receive a full exemption from property (ad valorem) taxes on their primary residence.

Sounds great… but here’s the catch:

Lenders still counted those taxes in the buyer’s debt-to-income (DTI) ratio during loan approval.

Translation?
Even though the veteran wouldn’t actually pay those taxes… it could still hurt their ability to qualify for a home loan.

Yeah—make it make sense. Here’s what the new law does:

 

- Allows eligible disabled veterans to apply for their property tax exemption BEFORE closing
- Ensures those taxes are NOT counted in DTI calculations
- Gives lenders a more accurate picture of the buyer’s true financial situation

 

Bottom line:
1.) More buying power
2.) Easier loan approval
3.) Less red tape where it never belonged in the first place

 

Know a Veteran Who Could Benefit?

Share this with them. Seriously.

Because sometimes the difference between “I can’t qualify” and “I got the house”
comes down to one smart change like this.

Posted in Veterans
March 15, 2026

7 Home Features That Could Be Practically “Real Estate Dinosaurs” by 2031

Real estate trends move a little like beach tides… slow, steady, and then suddenly everything looks different. What buyers loved ten years ago can feel outdated today. And some features that used to scream “luxury!” now make buyers quietly whisper, “How much will it cost to remove that?”  If you own a home—or are thinking about buying—here are seven features that might not age gracefully. Grab your sweet tea… some of these may sting a little.


 1. The Formal Dining Room (Used Twice a Year)

Once upon a time every house needed a formal dining room. Today? Most families use them for:

• Homework headquarters
• Holiday storage
• The room where the treadmill goes to die

Buyers increasingly prefer open layouts with large kitchens and islands where everyone gathers naturally. Translation: If a room is only used on Thanksgiving… buyers may not want it.


 2. Giant Whirlpool Bathtubs

Remember when giant jetted tubs were the ultimate “luxury”? Turns out most people use them exactly once. Then they realize:

• They take forever to fill
• They’re hard to clean
• And showers are just… faster.

Modern buyers are choosing large walk-in showers and spa-style bathrooms instead.


 3. Closed-Off Floor Plans

Walls, walls… walls everywhere. Older homes often separate the kitchen, living room, and dining room into multiple compartments. Today’s buyers want flow and connection — especially between the kitchen and living areas where people actually spend time together.

Goodbye maze. Hello open concept.


 4. Oversized Built-In Entertainment Centers

Back in the day these were designed for giant box TVs. Now they’re mostly… awkward.

Modern buyers prefer:

• Sleeker media walls
• Flexible furniture layouts
• And TVs that mount neatly on the wall.

Nothing dates a house faster than a built-in designed for electronics from 2003.


 5. Wall-to-Wall Carpet Everywhere

Carpet still has its place (hello cozy bedrooms), but buyers are moving away from wall-to-wall carpet throughout the entire house due to maintenance and allergen concerns. Hardwood, luxury vinyl plank, and natural materials are dominating modern homes.

And honestly… nobody wants to wonder what’s hiding in 15-year-old carpet.


 6. The All-Gray Everything Era

Gray floors. Gray cabinets. Gray walls. For about a decade every flip looked like a black-and-white Instagram filter. Design trends are now shifting toward warmer wood tones and more natural materials instead.

Gray isn’t dead… but the “50 shades of gray house” trend is definitely fading.


 The Big Takeaway for Homeowners

Here’s the good news:

Real estate trends always evolve. What matters most isn’t chasing every design trend—it’s creating a home that:

✔ feels modern
✔ functions well
✔ and appeals to the largest group of buyers

Because when it comes time to sell, functionality beats fancy every time. And if your home still has a formal dining room and a whirlpool tub?

Don’t panic. Just stage it well… and maybe hide the treadmill.

March 11, 2026

Showings That Sell… or Showings That Kill the Deal

Let’s be honest for a minute. Buyers don’t take their time judging a home anymore. They walk in the front door… look around for about 90 seconds… and their brain has already decided “love it” or “next!”

And sometimes the reason they walk away isn’t price, square footage, or location. It’s the little things.

Real estate experts say buyers today are quicker than ever to make snap judgments, and small showing mistakes can quietly cost sellers offers. In fact, many buyers form an opinion within minutes of stepping through the front door.

 

So if you’re thinking about selling, here are some of the biggest showing “offenses” that can scare buyers off faster than a Florida thunderstorm.


🚫 The Top Home Showing Turn-Offs

1️ Smells. Any smells. Pet odors, strong candles, heavy plug-ins… buyers notice immediately. When someone walks in and thinks, “What is that smell?” the house has already lost momentum.

2️ Feeling like they’re on a reality show. Cameras everywhere can make buyers feel watched instead of relaxed. If they’re uncomfortable, they rush through the home.

3️ Personal overload. Walls of family photos, bold décor, or very personalized spaces make it harder for buyers to picture their life there. Neutral wins.

4️ Neglected curb appeal. Buyers judge a home before they even park the car. Overgrown landscaping or tired exteriors can make them skip the showing altogether.

5️ Bathroom chaos. Toothbrushes, toiletries, hair tools, and clutter? Nope. Bathrooms should feel like a hotel — clean, clear, and sparkling.

6️ Packed closets and cabinets. If buyers open a closet and things avalanche toward them… they assume the home lacks storage.

7️ Cover-ups instead of fixes. Fresh staging can’t hide noisy HVAC systems, dusty vents, or obvious maintenance issues. Buyers notice — and mentally subtract thousands from their offer.

8️ Pricing that’s unrealistic. Overpricing can be the fastest way to kill buyer excitement. If condition and price don’t match, buyers simply move on.

9️ Dim lighting. Dark homes feel smaller. Bright, natural light makes spaces feel larger, cleaner, and more inviting.

🔟 Dirt. This one’s simple: clean homes sell faster. A deep clean can dramatically change how buyers experience a pro


🏡 The Bottom Line

When buyers walk into a home, they aren’t just touring a property. They’re imagining their future. Your goal is to make it easy for them to picture their life there — bright, clean, welcoming, and move-in ready. Even small improvements can be the difference between multiple offers… or silence after showings. And here’s the good news…

Most of these fixes are simple.

If you’re thinking about selling and want to know exactly how to prepare your home so buyers fall in love the moment they walk in, I’d be happy to help. Because when it comes to selling a home, the goal is simple:

 

✨ Make buyers say “WOW”… not “well…”

Feb. 21, 2026

Welcome to Margaritaville at The Wharf

🌴𝒲𝑒𝓁𝒸𝑜𝓂𝑒 𝓉𝑜 𝑀𝒶𝓇𝑔𝒶𝓇𝒾𝓉𝒶𝓋𝒾𝓁𝓁𝑒 𝒶𝓉 𝒯𝒽𝑒 𝒲𝒽𝒶𝓇𝒻 🌴

 

Orange Beach is turning up the tropical tunes! 🎶The all-new Margaritaville Resort at The Wharf is bringing laid-back luxury and island fun to the Alabama Gulf Coast — where the sunsets glow golden, and every day feels like vacation. 🌅🍹

 

🏖️𝒯𝒽𝑒 𝒰𝓁𝓉𝒾𝓂𝒶𝓉𝑒 𝐼𝓈𝓁𝒶𝓃𝒹 𝐸𝓈𝒸𝒶𝓅𝑒 🏖️

This massive new resort will feature acres of paradise — complete with a lazy river, serenity pool, swim-up bar, waterslides, marina access, and on-site dining where you can sip, dip, and unwind. 🍍Plus, it’s right next to The Wharf, home to concerts, boutiques, dining, and that famous Ferris wheel that lights up the night. 🎡✨

🌺𝑅𝑒𝓈𝒾𝒹𝑒𝓃𝒸𝑒𝓈 𝒯𝒽𝒶𝓉 𝐹𝑒𝑒𝓁 𝐿𝒾𝓀𝑒 𝒫𝒶𝓇𝒶𝒹𝒾𝓈𝑒 🌺

Soon you’ll be able to live the Margaritaville lifestyle full-time or part-time, thanks to luxury residences designed for comfort and coastal flair. 🏡Think breezy balconies, tropical landscaping, and that “feet-up, no-worries” vibe — all wrapped in modern coastal architecture. 🌴☀️

 

💼𝐼𝓃𝓋𝑒𝓈𝓉 𝒲𝒽𝑒𝓇𝑒 𝒴𝑜𝓊 𝒫𝓁𝒶𝓎 💼

For those looking to invest where people love to play, Margaritaville at The Wharf is shaping up to be one of the most exciting new real estate opportunities on the Alabama coast. With demand for short-term rentals and luxury second homes on the rise, this community offers serious potential for ROI — wrapped in a vacation lifestyle. 🌞💰If you’re ready to learn more about owning in Margaritaville, reach out and let’s talk investment opportunities before this island paradise fills up. 🏝️

 

Feb. 18, 2026

Alabama Is On the Move — And Everyone’s Noticing

 

📦 Alabama Is On the Move — And Everyone’s Noticing

 

If you’ve been feeling like more out-of-state plates are showing up at the grocery store… you’re not imagining it.

According to the 2025 United Van Lines National Movers Study, Alabama has landed in the Top 10 most moved-to states for the sixth year in a row. Not once. Not twice. Six straight years.

That’s not a fluke — that’s a pattern.

And patterns in real estate? We pay attention to those.


🚚 Why Are People Packing Up and Heading South?

Here’s what the movers report says:

  • 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 33.9% moved for family
  • 💼 29.8% moved for job opportunities
  • 🌴 19.8% moved for retirement
  • 📍 57.1% of Alabama’s moves were inbound

Translation: more people are choosing Alabama than leaving it. That’s a strong vote of confidence.


💰 Let’s Talk Numbers (Because They Matter)

Here’s where it gets interesting.

  • Median home price (December 2025): $245,615
    Well below the national average. That’s not a typo.
  • Property taxes: Second lowest in the U.S.
    (Yes, your monthly payment just exhaled.)
  • Job growth: 35,819 new jobs added in 2025
    Plus one of the lowest unemployment rates in the country.
  • Lifestyle: Mild weather, outdoor living, beaches, lakes, mountains — and no snow shovels required.

You’re getting opportunity and breathing room.


🌊 The Real Secret? Lifestyle

This isn’t just about spreadsheets and statistics.

It’s about Saturday mornings at the coast.
It’s about affordable homes that don’t require selling a kidney.
It’s about raising kids near grandparents.
It’s about retiring somewhere that still feels alive.

And yes… coastal living without Miami prices.

Alabama keeps showing up on these lists because it offers something people are craving right now:

Room to grow — without breaking the budget.

(And let’s be honest… markets don’t stay “attainable” forever.)


📍 So What’s the Takeaway?

Alabama isn’t just trending. It’s consistently delivering.

When a state keeps landing in the Top 10 for inbound moves year after year, that tells you demand is steady. And steady demand tends to support home values over time.

Opportunity loves momentum.



🎶 It’s Not Just a Song…

You know that moment when Lynyrd Skynyrd comes on and someone yells “Sweet Home Alabama!”? That’s not just a lyric — it’s a vibe. And if you grew up watching Sweet Home Alabama with Reese Witherspoon, you already know the plot twist: sometimes the place you’re meant to be is the one with the porch light on.

Alabama has always had that pull.
Now the rest of the country is catching on.

🏡 Ready to See What the Buzz Is About?

If you’re thinking about making a move — whether that’s across the country or just across town — start smart.

Browse available homes, explore neighborhoods, and see real-time listings straight from the MLS at:

👉 www.ToniaVickery.com

Your next chapter might be closer (and more affordable) than you think.

Let’s go find it.

Feb. 13, 2026

Mardi Gras on the Gulf Coast...Where It All Began

🎭✨ 𝓜𝓪𝓻𝓭𝓲 𝓖𝓻𝓪𝓼 𝓸𝓷 𝓽𝓱𝓮 𝓖𝓾𝓵𝓯 𝓒𝓸𝓪𝓼𝓽 ✨🎭 𝓦𝓱𝓮𝓻𝓮 𝓘𝓽 𝓐𝓵𝓵 𝓑𝓮𝓰𝓪𝓷

When people think Mardi Gras, they usually shout “New Orleans!” — but here’s a little Gulf Coast truth bomb 💥… Mardi Gras started in Mobile in 1703, by French settlers,  a full 15 years before New Orleans even held its first celebration. Yes ma’am. We were first. 👑

Mobile’s deep French roots brought Carnival traditions to the Alabama coast, and they’ve been rolling ever since. The first organized parade rolled in 1830, and by the late 1800s, the mystic societies (secret krewes) were tossing beads, MoonPies 🌙, and doubloons long before it was trendy. One of Mobile’s most beloved traditions is Joe Cain Day — honoring Joe Cain, the man credited with reviving Mardi Gras in 1868 after the Civil War. Every year, his merry widows and followers parade through downtown in true Gulf Coast flair. It’s historic, a little quirky, and a whole lot of fun.

 

🎭✨ 𝓕𝓾𝓷 𝓕𝓪𝓬𝓽𝓼 𝓨𝓸𝓾 𝓒𝓪𝓷 𝓣𝓸𝓼𝓼 𝓛𝓲𝓴𝓮 𝓑𝓮𝓪𝓭𝓼

 

💜 The colors mean something:

• Purple = Justice
• Green = Faith
• Gold = Power

 

🌙 Mobile is famous for tossing Moon Pies instead of just beads. (Pro tip: catch with both hands. They’re heavier than they look. 😆)

🎉 Parades roll for weeks leading up to Fat Tuesday — not just one weekend.

👑 Many krewes hold elegant, invitation-only balls that are steeped in tradition and pageantry. Think Southern royalty meets glitter cannon.

 

 

👑✨ 𝓗𝓲𝓼𝓽𝓸𝓻𝔂 𝓸𝓯 𝓚𝓲𝓷𝓰 𝓒𝓪𝓴𝓮 ✨👑

 

No Mardi Gras celebration is complete without a King Cake making the rounds. 👑🍰 This iconic ring-shaped pastry, braided like a crown and dusted in purple, green, and gold sugar, traces its roots back to French settlers who brought the Epiphany tradition to the Gulf Coast in the 1700s — including right here in Mobile. Hidden inside is the tiny baby symbolizing luck and prosperity for the one who finds it (and the unofficial obligation to host the next party 😄). Around Mobile and throughout Baldwin County, King Cake isn’t just dessert — it’s the edible kickoff to Carnival season, showing up at parades, offices, schools, and kitchen counters from January 6th through Fat Tuesday.

 

 

🎭 𝓦𝓱𝔂 𝓓𝓸 𝓣𝓱𝓮𝔂 𝓣𝓱𝓻𝓸𝔀 𝓜𝓸𝓸𝓷𝓟𝓲𝓮𝓼 𝓪𝓽 𝓜𝓪𝓻𝓭𝓲 𝓖𝓻𝓪𝓼🎭

 

𝓞𝓷𝓵𝔂 𝓲𝓷 𝓜𝓸𝓫𝓲𝓵𝓮

 

In the 1940s and 1950s, parade organizers wanted something more affordable and family-friendly to throw than fragile glass beads or expensive trinkets. Moon Pies were inexpensive, individually wrapped, easy to toss, and — most importantly — edible.

The tradition stuck. Over time, the treat became part of Mobile’s Mardi Gras identity. You don’t just catch throws here… you snack on them.

 

Today, Moon Pies are a symbol of Mobile’s claim as the original American Mardi Gras. It’s quirky. It’s delicious. It’s uniquely ours. So if you’re lining the parade route this season, bring a bag, bring your best catching stance — and maybe both hands. Those things have some weight to them. Because on the Alabama Gulf Coast, Mardi Gras doesn’t just sparkle… it comes with a marshmallow center.

 

👑🎭 𝓚𝓻𝓮𝔀𝓮𝓼𝓒𝓸𝓾𝓻𝓽𝓼 & 𝓒𝓪𝓻𝓷𝓲𝓿𝓪𝓵 𝓡𝓸𝔂𝓪𝓵𝓽𝔂 🎭👑

 

Behind every parade float and flying Moon Pie is a Mardi Gras krewe — the backbone of Carnival season. 🎭👑 These private organizations spend all year planning themes, building floats, designing throws, and organizing the grand finale: the Mardi Gras ball. And let’s talk about those balls for a second… they’re not your average Saturday night out. Think formal gowns, tuxedos, elaborate themes, choreographed royal courts, and a grand march that feels straight out of Southern royalty. 💜💚💛 Invitations are treasured, traditions are honored, and generations of families participate year after year. It’s pageantry, history, and community wrapped into one glittering evening — and around here, being part of a krewe isn’t just social… it’s a legacy.

 

 

🎭🌊 𝓐 𝓖𝓾𝓵𝓯 𝓒𝓸𝓪𝓼𝓽 𝓑𝓪𝓭𝓰𝓮 𝓸𝓯 𝓗𝓸𝓷𝓸𝓻

 

Around here, Mardi Gras isn’t just a party — it’s basically a seasonal shift in the Gulf Coast operating system. 🎭💜 Meetings get “mysteriously” rescheduled, productivity politely taps out, and even the most serious professionals suddenly know every parade schedule by heart. Schools close, businesses either boom or shut the doors early, and nobody questions why you’re wearing purple on a Tuesday morning. The entire region moves to the rhythm of marching bands and float engines. It’s not a distraction — it’s tradition. And if you’ve lived here long enough, you know: when Mardi Gras rolls in, everything else rolls right along with it. 🌙✨

Feb. 9, 2026

2025 Real Estate Market Recap: Alabama’s “Secret” Is Definitely Out Ya’ll!

Turns out the rest of the country figured it out — Alabama isn’t just sweet tea and football. It’s jobs, affordability, and room to breathe. After a slower 2024…2025 came back strong with real momentum and real numbers to back it up.

🌎 Statewide Highlights

  • 📈 71,485 homes sold — up 3.9% (goodbye 2024 slump)
  • 💰 Median price: $233,969 — up 11% and a record high
  • 💵 $19.37B in sales volume — up 20.3%
  • 🏘️ Inventory up 17.6% — more choices for buyers
  • ⚖️ 4.7 months of supply — finally flirting with “balanced”
  • 💼 Unemployment under 3% — steady jobs = steady demand

Translation? The market didn’t just recover — it stabilized. Less frenzy. More strategy.

But here’s the thing: real estate is hyper-local. What’s happening statewide sets the tone… but what matters most is what’s happening right here at home.


🏖️ Baldwin County: Growth with a Cooler Head

Baldwin County wrapped 2025 with stronger sales, higher prices, and more inventory — which means opportunity on both sides of the table.

🔎 Year-End Snapshot

  • 🏡 7,772 homes sold (up from 7,454)
  • 💰 Average price: $474,214 (yes, that’s up nicely)
  • 💵 $3.68B in total sales volume
  • 📋 14,161 new listings — buyers had options again

🌴 Resort Market

Our coastal market kept flexing:

  • 🏖️ 1,789 resort sales
  • 💰 $1.37B in resort volume
  • 📈 Steady price appreciation
  • ⏳ Longer days on market = less panic, more planning

🏘️ Traditional Residential

  • 🏡 4,960 homes sold
  • 💵 $2.05B in sales volume
  • 📈 Moderate price growth
  • ⏳ More inventory, slightly longer marketing times

🧭 The Bottom Line

The chaos cooled. The demand stayed.

We’re in a healthier, more sustainable market — not the wild bidding-war days, but not a slowdown either. It’s a thinking market now. And in a thinking market, strategy wins every time.

 

Posted in Market Updates