Over 15 years ago, this landlocked, Atlanta-born telecom professional turned Realtor made a decision to move to NW Florida. Having spent numerous vacations and spring breaks in Panama City Beach, it was an easy decision. I had no idea what the future would hold, but it was exciting and I’ve never looked back.
In 2005 Pier Park didn’t exist, the former airport was mostly for large jet arrivals unless you rented a car and drove over from Tallahassee or Pensacola and most of our area was still somewhat undiscovered unless you were a Southerner. We certainly never thought we would have suffered the burst of the housing bubble, followed by the devastating effects on tourism from the Gulf Oil Spill, and just when we had coasted through a few years without incident and regained our footing we were hit by the 3rd most powerful hurricane to hit the continental United States followed by a pandemic.
Almost makes you want to throw up your hands and say, okay I’m outta here!
No, can’t do it. Can’t leave, wouldn’t think of leaving.
There is something about this place. About the sea, the people, the resiliency of the gulf coast that pulls you in and holds you tight. It’s the wintertime sunsets, the sight of a Blue Heron gliding across the bay, catching your first Red Snapper, learning to snorkel in the kiddie pool, catching beads during the Mardi Gras parade in St. Andrews, strolling the beach on Shell island. I could go on but you probably get the picture. If you’ve never been here, we invite you to come. Get off the beaten and explore on the day you are recovering from your sunburn. Find a local and ask them where their favorite bar or seafood joint is. Check event calendars for local happenings and spend time enjoying just staring at the water.
We will be adding links to all events calendars in the area soon. Stay Tuned!
-Janis
Thinking about making a move? I admit I did not have much in the way of a dealbreaker list when I made my decision. I am an old house person and luckily stumbled upon the community of St. Andrews and the rest is history. But, depending on your wish list there are a lot of factors to consider. House or condo, waterfront, water view, school proximity, available amenities. There are lots to consider and we will be focusing on these topics in the Blogs (Sea Notes) to follow.
There is massive growth in NW Florida and with growth comes opportunity. More people are able to work remotely, new housing starts and businesses are everywhere and the sea is calling. Come visit, stay a week or a lifetime. You will love it!