What does Andy write about?
Articles, guides, and video content about buying, selling, and living on the Alabama Gulf Coast.
The Process of Condo Development in Baldwin County
Curious how new condos get approved and built in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach? From zoning and site plans to the Coastal Construction Control Line and modern hurricane codes, here's how the process works and what it means for buyers.
Avenue D & Local Orange Beach Neighborhood Insights
Searching for homes or property details near 4695 Avenue D in Orange Beach? This quiet single-family pocket off the Canal Road corridor offers privacy, real yards, and a five-minute drive to the beach. Here's what to know before you buy.
Buying an Orange Beach Condo? Calculate the Real Cost Before You Make an Offer
A condo listed for $715,000 does not necessarily cost $715,000. HOA dues, special assessments, insurance layers, and property taxes decide the real monthly cost of owning an Orange Beach condo, and the asking price alone does not tell the story.
What's Happening on the Gulf Coast: Mid-October Into Early November 2026
The freshest Orange Beach events, Gulf Shores festivals, and Baldwin County things to do from right now through early November 2026: storm recovery after Hurricane Isaias, Halloween week, the Frank Brown Songwriters Festival, new restaurants, and the market news that matters for buyers, sellers, and investors.
New Construction vs. Resale Homes in Orange Beach, AL
Weighing new construction vs. resale homes in Orange Beach and Foley? New builds bring Fortified roofs, modern hurricane codes, and lower insurance, while resales bring proven neighborhoods and immediate move-in. The honest cost comparison before you sign with a builder.
Buying Beachfront Condos in Orange Beach: What to Expect
Thinking about Orange Beach condos for sale? HOA fees, insurance, rental policies, and special assessments decide whether beachfront living pays off. Here's what to expect before you buy.
Living on Marina Road in Orange Beach
Marina Road is one of Orange Beach's most sought-after addresses for boaters and water lovers, threading along Terry Cove with deep-water canal homes, marinas, and boat slips minutes from the beach. Here's what living there really costs and what to know before you buy.
What Does $500K Buy in Fairhope, Alabama? A Real Home Tour
Around $500,000 can buy a 4 bedroom, 2.5 bath, 2,700 square foot home in Fairhope, Alabama with a pool, a third-acre lot, and recent big-ticket updates. A real home tour showing what a mid-range budget gets you in one of Baldwin County's most popular towns.
What's Happening on the Gulf Coast: Mid-October Through Halloween 2026
The freshest Orange Beach events, Gulf Shores festivals, and Baldwin County things to do from right now through Halloween 2026: National Shrimp Festival dates, OWA's spooky season, Sammy Kershaw in Fairhope, new restaurants, and the road news that matters for buyers and investors.
Budget-Friendly Coastal Retirement Tips
Dreaming of the Gulf Shores coast on a fixed budget? Low HOA fees, energy-efficient builds, and Alabama senior tax breaks stretch retirement dollars furthest just inland. Here's the honest breakdown town by town.
Why Retirees Love Living in Lillian, AL
Lillian sits on Perdido Bay at the Alabama and Florida line, about 20 miles from Orange Beach and 15 from Pensacola, and it is home to Spanish Cove, the area's resort-style 55+ community. Here is what retirement there really costs and feels like.
What Does $1.45 Million Buy in Orange Beach, Alabama Right Now?
A recent sale at The Moorings in Orange Beach sold for $1.45 million after 23 days on the market. Inside: a combined 2,781-square-foot condo with 4 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, and a deeded boat slip.
Affordable Senior Housing Options Near the Beach
Want to retire near the Gulf Coast without breaking the bank? Inland Baldwin County towns like Foley, Lillian, Elberta, and Robertsdale offer single-story, low-maintenance homes with full beach access at a fraction of beachfront cost. Here's where affordable senior housing for sale actually lives and what it really costs month to month.
Your October 2026 Gulf Coast Events Guide: Shrimp Festival, Halloween Season, and What's New
National Shrimp Festival dates, Halloween events at OWA and Gulf Shores, BJ's opening in Foley, I-10 bridge construction starting October 1, new restaurants, and the best Orange Beach events and Gulf Shores festivals from now through the end of October 2026.
Retiring to the Gulf Coast: Orange Beach vs. Nearby Towns
Planning to retire in Orange Beach, Alabama? A town-by-town comparison of beachfront condos, Foley, Fairhope, Lillian, and Gulf Shores on price, HOA fees, insurance, and the lifestyle each town actually delivers.
Top 55+ Communities Near Orange Beach, AL
Active adult living is closer to the beach than you think. Sea Pines, LiveOak Village, The Grove, and more: the top 55+ communities near Orange Beach in Foley and Gulf Shores, plus what Lillian offers and what it really costs.
Phoenix X Condo for Sale in Orange Beach Alabama: What Buyers Should Evaluate
A top-floor two-bedroom Phoenix X condo in Orange Beach listed at $724,000 with direct Gulf views: 1,064 square feet, $809 monthly dues, walkable to the Flora-Bama, and the real numbers buyers should evaluate before buying.
10 New Places Shaping Life in Orange Beach and Gulf Shores
Jimmy Buffett's Last Mango at The Wharf, Sunliner Diner, Pho Mo, Bubba's Seaside Mini Golf, Beachside Circle Boats, and Gulf State Park's expanded RV sites: 10 new places changing how Orange Beach and Gulf Shores feel for residents, buyers, and visitors.
Caribe Resort Condo Tour in Orange Beach Alabama
A tour of a two-bedroom Caribe Resort condo in Orange Beach offered at $715,000: 1,602 square feet, Old River and Ono Island views, resort amenities, and the real numbers buyers should verify before deciding.
Why These Buyers Sold in Gulf Shores and Bought a $359,000 New Home in Foley Alabama
A real client story: these buyers sold their Gulf Shores home for $340,000, and bought a brand-new Gold Fortified four-bedroom home in GlenLakes, in Foley, for $359,000. How equity, builder incentives, and lower new-home costs changed the whole picture.
Orange Beach vs Gulf Shores Real Estate: How Moving One Zip Code Got These Buyers More House
A real client story showing what $615K bought in Gulf Shores vs Orange Beach. 800 more sq ft, Gold Fortified construction, a private pool, and lower insurance.
Orange Beach Updates E-Bike and Golf Cart Rules: What Residents and Visitors Need to Know
Orange Beach just passed major updates to e-bike, golf cart, and electric scooter regulations. Here is what changed at the August 4 special meeting and how it affects residents, visitors, and property owners.
Foley Alabama Home Tour: What a Move-In Ready 4-Bedroom Home Under $300K Looks Like
A 4-bed, 2-bath move-in ready home in Riverside at Arbor Walk, Foley AL for under $300K. Fortified roof, updated kitchen, and a quiet backyard with no direct neighbors.
Baldwin County Real Estate Trends: What Buyers and Sellers Need to Know in 2025
Median prices, days on market, inventory, and what buyers and sellers need to know about the Baldwin County Alabama real estate market in 2025. Inland vs. resort market breakdown.
Why This Orange Beach Alabama Vacation Home Might Be One of the Best Layouts We've Seen
A Somersault vacation home in Orange Beach AL with 4 bedrooms, dual primary suites, and strong rental income potential. Walk to the beach from this corner lot property.
Should You Buy a Condo at San Carlos in Gulf Shores, Alabama?
A 19th-floor Gulf-front unit at San Carlos with three bedrooms, strong rental demand, $1,020 monthly HOA dues, and the real numbers buyers need to evaluate before making an offer.
Compass Point Condos in Gulf Shores AL | Affordable Waterfront Living on West Beach
Compass Point offers lagoon views, boat docks, beach access, and prices from the low $400s on West Beach. A rare affordable waterfront option in Gulf Shores.
Moving to Baldwin County Alabama — What You Need to Know Before You Relocate
Everything you need to know about relocating to Baldwin County AL. Cost of living, cities, schools, insurance, and what it is really like to live on the Gulf Coast.
Touring a Beautiful Pool Home in Foley Alabama | Peachtree Neighborhood Home Tour
A 4-bed, 3-bath pool home in the Peachtree neighborhood of Foley AL for under $600K. See why buyers are moving inland for more space, lower costs, and a private pool.
What Gulf Shores Sellers Should Know Before Hosting an Open House
A strong open house starts before the door opens. Preparation, marketing, presentation, and a clear plan for how buyers should feel the moment they arrive.
A Rare Golf Course Home in Orange Beach, Alabama with a Pool and Large Lot
A golf course home on nearly half an acre with a saltwater pool in Orange Beach. Learn why large-lot homes near the fairway sell quickly.
Why So Many People Are Moving to Bear Point in Orange Beach, Alabama
Bear Point is one of Orange Beach's most unique neighborhoods — golf cart lifestyle, waterfront amenities, and a strong sense of community. Here is why buyers love it.
Can You Still Buy a Gulf Front Condo in Gulf Shores for Under $500,000?
Yes — you can still find a Gulf-front condo under $500K in Gulf Shores. A video tour of Sea Glass on West Beach with honest numbers on HOA, taxes, and rental income potential.
Is Buying a Condo at Phoenix V in Orange Beach a Huge Mistake?
A beachfront 2BR/2BA condo at Phoenix V in Orange Beach — discounted with a major assessment. Here is how to evaluate whether it is a smart purchase or a costly mistake.
Affordable Orange Beach Condo With Beach Access and Boat Launch Nearby
A recently renovated 1BR condo at Grand Caribbean in Orange Beach for under $325K with beach access, boat launch, and rental income potential.
$339K in Gulf Shores?! Yes, Affordable Coastal Living exists near Orange Beach
You don’t have to be a millionaire to live at the beach. A look at an affordable 3-bed, 2-bath home near the Intracoastal Bridge showing what’s possible.
Orange Beach vs Gulf Shores: Which One Is Right for You?
Two beach towns, same coastline, different vibes. Here is an honest comparison of schools, prices, neighborhoods, and lifestyle to help you decide.
The Real Cost of Living on the Gulf Coast
Beyond the mortgage. HOA fees, insurance, the beach tax, and the hidden costs that catch people off guard when they move to the coast.
How YouTube Became My Number One Lead Source
I stopped cold calling and started filming. Here is the story of how YouTube changed my real estate business and became my number one source of buyers, sellers, and investors on the Gulf Coast.
Earlier Event Roundups
Past event guides from earlier this season. The dates in these posts have passed, and they are kept here for reference. For what is happening right now, check the posts above, starting with the newest roundup.
What's Happening on the Gulf Coast: Late September into Mid-October 2026
Freedom Fest at The Wharf, the Blue Angels' last practice, Gulf of America Jeep Fest, OWA's fall season, the National Shrimp Festival, new restaurants, and a record-quiet tropics: your local friend's guide to Orange Beach events, Gulf Shores festivals, and Baldwin County things to do from now through mid-October.
What's Happening on the Gulf Coast: Late September into Early October 2026
Your local friend's guide to Orange Beach events, Gulf Shores festivals, and Baldwin County things to do from now through early October: Freedom Fest, Jeep Fest, Harvest Moon Festival, Weird Al at The Wharf, the National Shrimp Festival, new restaurants, and what it all means for buyers and investors.
What's Happening on the Gulf Coast: September into Early October2026
Your local friend's guide to the best Orange Beach events, Gulf Shores festivals,and Baldwin County things to do over the next few weeks: Sunset Series, Bulls on the Beach, Freedom Fest, Jeep Fest, What's New around Town,and a preview of October.
What's Happening on the Gulf Coast: September 2026 Events & News
Your local friend's guide to the best Orange Beach and Gulf Shores events this month: Sunset Series, Bulls on the Beach at Flora-Bama, Freedom Fest at The Wharf, Gulf of America Jeep Fest, new restaurants, new Foley development, and Baldwin County news happening now through late September 2026.
Fall 2026 on the Alabama Gulf Coast: Events, New Eateries, and What You Need to Know
National Shrimp Festival, Weird Al at The Wharf, Flora-Bama Oktoberfest, Gulf Shores Sunset Series, Coastal Cleanup, Freedom Fest, new restaurants, Baldwin County market update, and everything happening from late August through October 2026 across Orange Beach, Gulf Shores, Foley, and Fairhope.
Late August Through Mid-September 2026: What's Happening on the Gulf Coast
Jack Johnson and Goo Goo Dolls at The Wharf, Coastal Tailgate Cook-Off, Bulls on the Beach at Flora-Bama, Gulf Shores Sunset Series, Coastal Triathlon, new restaurants, Baldwin County market update, and everything happening on the Alabama Gulf Coast from now through mid-September 2026.
Mid-August Through Early September 2026: What's Happening on the Gulf Coast
Jack Johnson and Goo Goo Dolls at The Wharf, Coastal Tailgate Cook-Off, Blue Angels practice returns, Laguna Cove Nature Park progress, Foley Third Thursday, Fairhope Foodie Walking Tour, new restaurants, and everything happening across the Gulf Coast through the first week of September 2026.
August Through Early September 2026: What's Happening on the Gulf Coast
TOTO and Jack Johnson at The Wharf, Sandstock at Flora-Bama, Fairhope Art Walk, Foley Third Thursday, Coastal Triathlon, Freedom Fest, new restaurants, and everything happening across the Gulf Coast through early September 2026.
Late July Through August 2026: What's Happening on the Alabama Gulf Coast
TOTO and Jack Johnson at The Wharf, Sandstock at Flora-Bama, Plein Air Fairhope, Foley Third Thursday, Billfish Tournament, new restaurants, Baldwin County road updates, and everything happening through the end of summer 2026.
Late July to Mid-August 2026: What's Happening on the Gulf Coast
Blue Angels practice this week, Luke Bryan, Creed, and Turnpike Troubadours at The Wharf, Foley Lights the Night, Sandstock, Fairhope Art Walk, Sunliner Diner opens, Baldwin County road progress, and more.
Late July Through August 2026: What's Happening on the Gulf Coast
Blue Angels practice, Wharf concerts from Luke Bryan to Creed, Foley Lights the Night, Sandstock, Baldwin County road projects, and what buyers and investors should know — late July through August 2026.
Mid-July to Early August 2026: What's Happening on the Gulf Coast
Wharf concerts, Blue Angels practice, Blue Marlin Grand Championship, Foley Third Thursday, Baldwin County road projects, and what buyers and investors should know — mid-July through early August 2026.
What's Happening on the Gulf Coast: Your July 2026 Guide
Blue Angels practice, 4th of July fireworks, Wharf concerts, Blue Marlin Grand Championship, new Baldwin County restaurants, housing market update, and everything happening in July 2026.
What's Happening on the Gulf Coast: Mid-June Through July 2026
Your local friend's guide to Orange Beach events, Gulf Shores 4th of July fireworks, Foley's new Half Shell Oyster House, Fairhope markets, and Baldwin County developments.
What's Happening on the Gulf Coast: Your June & July 2026 Roundup
Your local friend's roundup of summer events, festivals, 4th of July plans, and what to know across Orange Beach, Gulf Shores, Foley, and Fairhope.
What YouTube content does Andy create?
My YouTube channel has hundreds of videos about the Gulf Coast. Neighborhood tours, market updates, buyer guides, and honest advice. Here are a few to get started.
Why do clients watch videos before calling Andy?
I film neighborhood tours, answer buyer questions, break down market data, and share what I have learned about living on the Alabama Gulf Coast: the neighborhoods, the condos, the real costs, and the lifestyle. No scripts. No fancy production. Just honest information from someone who lives here.
Subscribe on YouTubeGot a question I have not answered?
Send me a message or schedule a call. I answer real questions from real people every day. No scripts, no pressure, just honest answers.