Sands of Success: A Closer Look at the Florida Forgotten Coast’s Booming Real Estate Markets in 2023

WELCOME TO FLORIDA’S FORGOTTEN COAST, WHERE THE REAL ESTATE MARKETS ARE AS DIVERSE AS THE BEACHES THAT LINE ITS COAST. IN THIS BLOG POST, WE’LL DELVE INTO THE ANNUAL REAL ESTATE SALES FOR 2023, SPOTLIGHTING THE FLOURISHING FLORIDA MARKETS OF MEXICO BEACH, WINDMARK BEACH, ST. JOE BEACH, CAPE SAN BLAS, INDIAN PASS, PORT ST. JOE, ST. GEORGE ISLAND, APALACHICOLA, AND EASTPOINT. THESE MARKETS SPAN THE ENCHANTING COUNTIES OF BAY, GULF, AND FRANKLIN, EACH OFFERING A UNIQUE BLEND OF LIFESTYLE AND ACTIVITIES THAT MAKE THE FORGOTTEN COAST SUCH A DESIRABLE PLACE TO CALL HOME.

MEXICO BEACH:

Nestled along the Gulf of Mexico, Mexico Beach has charmed residents and visitors alike with its pristine white sands and laid-back atmosphere. In 2023, the real estate market here saw a surge in sales, reflecting the allure of beachfront living. Residents enjoy a variety of water activities, from paddleboarding to fishing, making Mexico Beach a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Mexico Beach had 143 total property sales for the year with an average sale price of just over $620,000. The average total days on market added up to 68 days, and an average price per square foot of $393. The highest sale price Mexico Beach saw for 2023 was $3,500,000!

WINDMARK BEACH:

For those seeking a harmonious blend of natural beauty and community spirit, Windmark Beach in Gulf County stands out. The real estate market here experienced notable growth in 2023. This coastal community offers residents a chance to indulge in seaside strolls, community events, and a range of outdoor activities, creating a truly vibrant lifestyle. Windmark Beach saw a whopping $1,600,000 sale as the highest priced property that sold in 2023! In total, there were 136 properties to sell in this waterfront community for the year with an average days on market of 137 days. The average price per square foot came to $261 for the year.

ST. JOE BEACH:

The charm of St. Joe Beach lies in its family-friendly atmosphere and the pristine shoreline that defines it. In 2023, the real estate market flourished, attracting families looking for a beachside haven. Residents here savor beach picnics, biking along scenic trails, and engaging in community events that foster a close-knit neighborhood vibe. The total properties sold for the year came to 83 with the average days on market being 85 days. Average price per square foot of properties sold was $415, and an average sale price of just over $745,000.  The Peevy’s had the highest priced sale for the entire year in St. Joe Beach at $2,900,000!🥇

CAPE SAN BLAS:

Cape San Blas, known for its serene beaches and pet-friendly environment, witnessed robust real estate sales in 2023. The market here appeals to nature lovers and pet enthusiasts, offering a range of outdoor activities such as hiking in the St. Joseph Peninsula State Park or enjoying sunset bonfires along the shore. Cape San Blas continues to be a market leader for the Forgotten Coast with an average sale price of $1,071,157, and an average price per square foot of $530. 2023 saw 120 total sales on the Cape with an average days on market of 46–one of the lowest average DOM in our local markets! The highest sale price came to $3,500,000!

INDIAN PASS:

Tucked away from the hustle and bustle, Indian Pass offers a tranquil escape for those seeking a slower pace of life. Real estate sales in 2023 reflected a growing interest in this hidden gem. Residents enjoy kayaking in the Indian Lagoon, exploring nature trails, and indulging in fresh seafood from local markets. Indian Pass saw a total of 77 properties sold for 2023 with an average days on market of 84. The average price per square foot came to $410 with an average sale price of $928,000. Yet again for 2023, The Peevys marked the highest sale price on Indian Pass for 2023 at $2,900,000! 

PORT ST. JOE:

With its historic charm and waterfront allure, Port St. Joe remains a sought-after destination for real estate. The market here in 2023 showcased a thriving community with a love for coastal living. Residents engage in water sports, visit the local marina, and explore the historic downtown, creating a rich and vibrant lifestyle. Port St. Joe saw 158 total sales in its market for 2023 with an average sale price of just shy of $375,000. The average days on market was 73 days, and the highest priced sale in Port St. Joe was $1,175,000 for 2023!

ST. GEORGE ISLAND:

As one of Florida’s premier barrier islands, St. George Island saw continued real estate success in 2023. This market attracts beach lovers and nature enthusiasts with its miles of pristine coastline and diverse wildlife. Residents relish beachcombing, bird watching, and participating in island events that foster a sense of community. St. George Island continues to be the market leader of Florida’s Forgotten Coast with a MASSIVE highest price sale of $5,500,000!!! The Island saw 171 properties sold for the year with an average sold price of at an impressive $1.25MM! Average price per square foot came to $586 for the year, and the average days on market was seen at 98 days.

APALACHICOLA:

Known for its historic architecture and thriving seafood industry, Apalachicola’s real estate market in 2023 showcased the town’s timeless appeal. Residents here enjoy cultural events, exploring art galleries, and savoring fresh oysters, creating a unique blend of history and contemporary coastal living. Apalachicola continues an impressive run for 2023 with 97 properties sold, 112 days on market as an average, and $242 as an average price per square foot.  The highest priced sale came to $1,150,000 for the year, and you’re looking at around $345,000 as an average sold price for 2023.

EASTPOINT:

Nestled at the intersection of Apalachicola Bay and the Gulf of Mexico, Eastpoint’s real estate market reflected the town’s charm and accessibility in 2023. Boasting a strong sense of community, residents engage in fishing, water sports, and local festivities that make Eastpoint a hidden gem in Franklin County. Eastpoint saw an impressive highest sale of $1,487,500 as its highest sale for 2023 with an average sale price around $450,000. Average days on market came to 114 days with an average price per square foot of $270.

As we reflect on the annual real estate sales in 2023 across these captivating Forgotten Coast markets, it’s clear that each location offers a distinctive lifestyle, attracting residents with its unique blend of natural beauty, community spirit, and outdoor activities. Whether you’re drawn to the tranquil shores of St. George Island or the historic charm of Apalachicola, the Forgotten Coast continues to shine bright in the real estate landscape.

At the heart of this flourishing real estate scene is the Peevy Team – a family-driven force dedicated to making dreams of coastal living a reality. Comprising Matt, Ashley, Diane, and Bill Peevy, our team has been proudly serving these markets since 1998. Over the years, we have not only witnessed the growth and transformation of these coastal communities but have actively contributed to building lasting relationships with buyers and sellers alike.

Our commitment goes beyond transactions; it’s about understanding the unique needs of our clients and guiding them through the intricacies of real estate along Florida’s Forgotten Coast. We take pride in being more than just real estate agents – we are trusted partners, dedicated to ensuring that every individual or family finds their perfect slice of paradise in this idyllic coastal haven.

As we look toward the future, the Peevy’s remains steadfast in our mission to continue shaping the real estate landscape along the Forgotten Coast. Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer, a seasoned investor, or someone looking to make a change in your coastal lifestyle, we are here to make the process seamless and enjoyable.

Ready to explore the possibilities? Contact the Peevy Team today, and let’s embark on your journey to find the perfect home along Florida’s Forgotten Coast. Your dream home awaits, and we’re here to make it a reality. https://callthepeevys.com/contact-us

Email us today to see the full list of properties and their details that sold for each of these markets [email protected]