Property price rises across much of the nation have stalled in recent weeks as high inflation and economic uncertainty bite. Over the past 24 months, homes in the most desirable neighborhoods and locations had seen their value increase by up to 30%, as a combination of lockdown, new ‘work from home’ opportunities, limited inventory, and a desire to ‘live the dream’ pushed prices higher. But a new report in Yahoo! Finance has identified 5 nationwide locations bucking the trend and where the market is still hot, and first on the list is 30A. “The term “30A” isn’t known to much of the country outside the Southeast.” writes report author John Csiszar, a financial planner and investment adviser, “but it’s a huge rental property area with room to grow.” 30A refers to the stretch of coastal highway between the popular resort towns of Destin and Panama City, Florida, and is dotted with small communities full of charm and gorgeous views right on the sandy beaches of the Gulf of Mexico, the report tells its readers. “As more and more visitors desire “authentic” travel experiences, places like 30A are well-positioned to be great investments.” Csiszar concludes. Local property expert Jimmy Burgess, CEO, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Beach Properties of Florida, agrees. “Homes along 30A have been amongst the most sought after in the nation for some time. We have seen price increases which reflect that demand as vacationers from Dallas, Nashville, Atlanta and further afield decide to invest in a property of their own. “And although economic conditions can be hard to predict in the short run, you will be hard pressed to find anyone who is not extremely bullish on the 30A area for the long-term. “The things which make our area so attractive remain the driving force for continued growth and value for investors: some of the most beautiful beaches in the world; low density; and southern hospitality.” With more than two decades experience in 30A real estate, Jimmy knows what his clients and customers want. “The sweet spot in today’s market is family homes with easy access to the beaches and the beautiful communities of 30A. If you can’t be gulf front, then being a short stroll or bike ride to a dedicated beach access is top of many lists. “These properties are much sought after as second homes, for permanent living, and as rental investments as well. “Being able to walk, cycle or even take a short golf cart ride to the shops and restaurants of Seaside, Rosemary Beach, Gulf Place or Grayton is also much in demand – people want to feel they are close to all the amenities on offer” the realtor explains. And Jimmy shares exactly why he thinks 30A remains a property hot spot. “When people invest in real estate along 30A, there are three ways the purchaser can anticipate a potential for return. “First, is the potential for price appreciation.
“Second is the income potential through short-term rentals. “But the third is perhaps the most significant.
“If you ask anyone their favorite childhood memory it usually involves a family vacation, often in a coastal community. Yes, buying a home along 30A has the potential for price appreciation and rental income, but it also provides the owner an opportunity to place themselves in the best childhood memories of their children or grandchildren. “That's the best Return on Investment ever” Jimmy advises. And with more people moving to the beach full-time, a range of new homes and neighborhoods are being developed to cater for those buyers too. “New homes in communities with tennis courts, golf courses, boat launches as well as shopping and dining experiences are all adding to the inventory available on or close to the 30A” reports Jimmy. So, it appears owning a property along the sugar-white sands of 30A remains a smart investment. “Rental property in a hot market can generate both long-term capital gains and immediate cash flow.” writes Csiszar. “In many areas, rental income can far exceed the cost of the mortgage on the property. This means you’ll essentially be paid to own a property as it appreciates in value. However, to reach this investment nirvana, you’ll have to pick properties in hot areas which generate consistent rental income.”
30A ticks all those boxes, but we’ll leave the last words to Jimmy Burgess:
“I can't think of an area anywhere in the world that has a brighter future with the potential for growth than this slice of heaven along Highway 30A.”