While it may be easy to feel landlocked in Tennessee, beaches are only a drive or a quick flight away – and some of the best can be found along a 24-mile highway in northwest Florida.
The 30A corridor is home to a collection of charming beach towns perfect for a relaxing getaway or a coastal home away from home. From the expansive amenities found in Watercolor to the heartbeat of 30A in Seaside, Scenic Sotheby’s realtor Brad Dahler is an expert in every nook, cranny and community along the road.
“I’ve been vacationing in the Destin/30A area since second grade,” Brad shared. “My wife, Kristin, and I were married in Watercolor. We have two wonderful daughters, James Scarlet and Miller, and we are all ecstatic to live in this beautiful area.”
Each community along the corridor has a unique draw: fans of shopping and restaurants may enjoy the cottages of Rosemary Beach, while Grayton Beach brings an old Florida small town feel. For an ultra-exclusive luxury community, consider Alys Beach. Or invest in the up-and-coming town of Blue Mountain Beach.
“I’m selling Mayberry on the beach,” said Brad, who specializes in vacation home real estate in each community along 30A. “I love how 30A is not commercialized. You’ll never see high-rise condos, hotel chains, chain restaurants or anything of that nature. I love the mom and pop feel.”
While obviously beneficial for personal use, vacation homes along 30A can also be revenue drivers as well.
“30A is the most popular drive-to destinations in the Southeast, and has grown in popularity as many are prioritizing driving for vacation,” Brad shared. “More than 90% of my clients use their vacation homes as investment properties.”
With the majority of home sales along 30A happening from afar, Brad specializes in going the extra mile when clients are miles away.
“I don’t just offer real estate services. I provide services to my clients before, during and after the sale,” Brad added. “I can help connect clients with property management and rental companies. I can serve as a real estate financial advisor to keep clients up-to-date on the investment market. I’ll even be there to put an Amazon package inside before the move.”
While each community along 30A has something unique to offer, Brad and his family have discovered their own favorites across town.
“Grayton Beach is my favorite because of the coastal dune lakes that feed into it, and I love being able to walk up to Red Bar and grab something to eat or drink,” Brad shared. “Overall, 30A has a healthy outdoor lifestyle that encourages you to ride bikes, hike or walk wherever you need to go. Entertainment isn’t inside, it’s outside.”
Despite being a coastal destination, Brad also enjoys the weather, which, surprisingly, still comprises four seasons – just a lot fewer cold days and a lot more warm and sunny. 30arealestatefl.com