Spooky Season is almost here! Soon is the time to take children and loved ones to the pumpkin patches for seasonal photos. Pumpkins will also be rested on dining room tables and kitchen counters to undergo the messy, but artistic operation of pumpkin carving. Residents will get their family and friends together to decorate homes and businesses to showcase the Emerald Coast’s creativity in all things spooky! Memories created through October will last lifetimes and create traditions for years to come, so make sure to have fun and, as always, remember to be safe! The Marino Team has made a list of decoration ideas for your spooky season shenanigans!

Decoration Ideas

• Wrap pumpkins in tulle sprinkled with sequins or glitter!

• Make an archway for your door by tying branches together with wiring. Wrap lights around the branches or paint them for a little extra sparkle!

• If you're looking for structures to house decorations outside, use wooden crates. Turn the crates on their side and stack them, creating perfect shelves for placing decorations!

• Create gnome pumpkin houses by stacking carved pumpkins. Cut the bottoms of the pumpkins and glue to the top of each pumpkin.

• Use old wine corks to create decorations by painting them to be anything you want!

• Wrap lights in Seasonal colors around trees and entryways to carry the fun into the evening hours.

With school beginning and hot temperatures continuing, it is now time to prepare for hurricane season on the Gulf Coast! Fun fact. Did you know that hurricanes hit the Emerald Coast on average every 8 to 9 years? As far as consistency, our average of natural disasters could be worse but it's beneficial to know basic information about hurricanes before one strikes. 

Hurricanes bring high winds and flooding caused by heavy rain and water pushed onto the shore from the tropical storm system. During the storm's impact do not venture outside. The storm's high winds will collect debris and have the potential to move large objects at a very high speed. The impact from airborne objects can be deadly. The storm is also likely to cause flooding from the storm surge and excessive rainfall. DO NOT swim in the flood water as it contains multiple hazards that can cause serious injuries. Top wind speeds during the storm can reach up to 200 MPH, commonly causing tornadoes to form as well. The aftermath for residents consists of piecing properties back together and helping each other through the cleanup process with a lack of power, water, and food. Preparation before a hurricane strikes is key to avoid struggling to find resources. The Marino Team has compiled an essential Hurricane Preparation List to help residents stay safe!

Hurricane Preparation List

1. Cover up doors and windows with permanent storm shutters or sheeting. The garage door is the most vulnerable door.

2. Move all motor vehicles to a secure location.

3. Trim trees with limbs close to your home before a storm hits.

4. Bring outdoor items inside that can be easily tossed such as trash cans and furniture.

5. Anchor down items that cannot be brought inside.

6. Clean out all drains, gutters, and downspouts before a storm hits.

7. Remember, flooding can happen fast! If you are in a flood-prone area elevate or remove any important items in your home that may be impacted by flood waters. It is also wise for you and your family to evacuate to higher grounds before the storm makes landfall.

8. If you do not evacuate, prepare a space to go if your home is flooding. Make sure this space is not enclosed as you do not want to become trapped.

9. Be ready to be without power. This can last for several days.

10. Review insurance policies.

11. Keep protective materials such as plastic sheeting.

12. Fill water containers with drinking water.

13. Keep a battery-powered radio.

14. Have a battery pack or a way to charge your cell phone.

15. Stock up on food, water, medicine, and ice.

16. Create a stay-at-home kit containing flashlights, generators, batteries, first aid, etc. 

Where to get Hurricane Information 

1. TV

2. Phone

3. Radio

4. Social Media

5. Computer

Everyone please stay safe during this hurricane season!

It's time for the 4th of July shenanigans and fireworks that light the Emerald Coast night sky every year! There are many different venues in the area that have celebrations that allow families and friends to celebrate this iconic holiday in ways most suitable for them. Annual races, fireworks displays, live entertainment, inflatables, and more can all be found under the umbrella of Independence Day celebrations on the Gulf Coast. 

Events of the day will begin at 7 AM with two 4th of July fun runs one in Pensacola and one in Orange Beach. Pensacola will begin their 4th of July Pensacola Beach 5k at 69 Via De Luna. The after-party will be held at the Sneaky Tiki Bar with party accommodations including hotdogs, watermelon, beer, and $3 Bloody Marys! About an hour's drive away, Perdido Key, Orange Beach, and Gulf Shores residents will be flocking to The Wharf for the 9th Annual SHARK 5k & 1 Mile Fun Run/Competitive Walk. This Adventure Run requires participants to wear flag football belts during the race. "Sharks" will chase the participants and try to steal the flags! All flags must be intact when crossing the finish line to receive rewards!

As the evening approaches, the Emerald Coast will prepare for 3 fireworks events that showcase local Independence Day pride. The earliest fireworks show begins at 8:30 PM and can be seen from the Pensacola Beach Boardwalk and the Santa Rosa Sound! The next displays will be at 9 PM in Pensacola and Gulf Shores. Sertoma's Fourth of July over Pensacola Bay is the brightest fireworks display on the Gulf Coast! Vendors at this event will be providing live music, face painting, pony rides, etc. Make sure to be there early and get a parking spot! Last, is the City of Gulf Shores Independence Day Celebration where fireworks will be shot from the Gulf State Park Fishing and Education Pier.

As always, everyone please make sure to have fun and be safe! We hope everyone has a fun-filled Independence Day!

Ladies and gents! Beach weather is finally in full swing! Local Emerald Coast beach-goers are sprinting to get their first taste of the summer sun, and tourism is thriving with the arrival of warm temperatures and sunny days! 

When planning to visit the snow-white sandy beaches of the Gulf Coast, some essential items are easy to overlook. Here are a few ideas for your beach-packing checklist!

1. WATER, WATER, WATER

• Many people forget this important item! Make sure to hydrate yourself and your loved ones while under the blazing sun. 

2. Sunscreen

• Protect your skin people! Plenty of people forget this item and live to regret it after just 2 hours in this Gulf Coast sun. No one wants the pain of a sunburn!

3. Reusable bags

• With so many items to carry at the beach, bags are a must! It is also a good idea to bring extra just in case you pick up some things along the way!

4. Lightweight clothing and an extra outfit.

• Always expect the unexpected when planning a trip to the beach. Clothing mishaps happen all the time. Sometimes clothes get wet or sandy so bring extra!

5. Beach towels

• This item is obvious but commonly forgotten! If you forget your beach towels, shops by the beach (such as Alvin's Island, Surf Style, or Ron Jons Surf Shop) always carry and sell them!

6. First Aid Kit

• Band-Aids are always helpful to have on the beach. Walking barefoot across the sand can result in scrapes or cuts that a First Aid Kit will be useful for! 

7. Portable Charger

• This item is extremely useful when your electronics are almost out of battery. Instead of having to search stores and restaurants for a charging outlet, bring a portable charger and continue having fun!

8. Bug Spray

• The Emerald Coast has bugs that bite! Make sure to apply bug spray as the day turns to night to keep the pesky insects away!

9. Cooling Gel (ex. Aloe)

• After-sun skin care is key! Bring cooling gel to keep your tan and get rid of that burning sunburn!

10. Cooler

• It is hot! Bring a cooler to keep all of your drinks and food items safe and cool. 

Those are just some essential items you might need when going to the beach. There are other items that are not necessities, but certainly make your beach time more enjoyable! Here are a few:

1. A hat

2. Deodorant wipes

3. Goggles

4. Waterproof bag or phone case

5. Portable Speaker

6. Beach Chairs

7. Wet wipes

8. Inflatable floats

9. Sunglasses

10. Camera

We hope you use these tips to help you and your friends and family have successful, relaxing beach days. Being prepared allows you to enjoy the glittering water, sun, and sand of the Emerald Coast without added stress! Everyone please remember to have fun and always be safe! 

612 Lost Key Dr Unit 1004B

There is everything to love about this penthouse condo at Lost Key! Enjoy a cup of coffee in the crisp, paradise-rich air on the large, screened balcony while taking in the beautiful views of Lost Key Golf Course, the Intracoastal Waterway, and Perdido Bay. This 2 bedroom, 2 bath unit includes a den and offers over 1600 square feet of living space along with expansive views of the island on both sides of the condo. This penthouse residence comes with an open-concept floor plan, a coveted, deeded garage space, and a storage locker along with all the fabulous amenities that Lost Key has to offer! 

About Lost Key Golf and Beach Club: Upon entering The Lost Key Community members and guests are greeted by a friendly, 24-hour manned guard house providing security and peace of mind for all residents. As a certified Audubon-sanctioned nature preserve, there are over 400 acres of property to enjoy at Lost Key. Amenities include miles of walking paths for a quiet escape, tennis courts, a golf course clubhouse/restaurant, and shuttle service to its beautiful beach club.  There are several micro-communities within the complex which offer their owners/guests top-of-the-line residential properties with a pool and the multi-family buildings include a fitness center. Everyone in the community has access to the Beach Club. This 5,000-square-foot Club has a private restaurant, and bar, as well as private beach access with beach chair service provided!

Watch the Blue Angels practice overhead and visit popular local spots near this centrally located condominium such as the Flora-Bama Bar, Downtown Pensacola, The Wharf, and Joe Patti’s Seafood Market! Isn’t it time to make this beautiful condo your home?

See photos and more information about this listing!

April showers bring May Flowers! As spring is commencing and social media is at its peak, users are dedicating posts to spring cleaning! These easy home hacks are rarely heard of but useful to make regularly difficult tasks, simple. My name is Jessica. I am the assistant to Dawn Marino and The Marino Team at Emerald Coast Realty. I tried a few of the cleaning tips I saw on social media and made a list of a few with my reviews on them! Everyone wants that picture-perfect home, so clean you might feel like you can lick the floor (not recommended)! With tips and tricks to make daily cleaning almost effortless, this ideal might be within reach! Below is a list of cleaning hacks:

Mardi Gras season has left us! Now the Emerald Coast prepares for spring break, tan lines, crawfish season, and St. Patrick's Day festivities! Local businesses are promising open mic nights, karaoke, trivia, live music, stand-up comedy, and more. As the winter starts to give way to warmer weather, tourists from around the world will come to see our breathtaking beaches. Everyone, please remember to have fun and be safe! 

As St. Patrick's Day, spring break, and summer approaches, venues such as The Well, Bamboo Willies, and Vinyl will provide live music every week. Local businesses will also host many social activities for guests of all ages! Visit pages for your favorite businesses to see what's happening! Dressed in green, O'Riley's Downtown Irish Pub starts celebrating St. Patrick's Day on March 4th with their Grog March! Registration begins at 4 pm featuring free General Admissions with a donation of two nonperishable food items. Donations will go to Manna Food Pantries to help feed the hungry in Escambia and Santa Rosa counties.

McGuires Irish Pub will present their St. Patrick's Day 5K Run/Walk on March 11th from 9 am to 10 am followed by their infamous street party. This race and the post-party are the largest St. Patrick's Day party on The Emerald Coast. McGuire's never disappoints! Registration will be held on March 10th from 10 am to 8 pm and March 11th from 6:30 am to 8 am. 

Finally, O'Riley's Irish Pub will open early to host their O'Riley's Saint Patrick's Day Party in Downtown Pensacola on March 17th! This celebration will include live Irish music, green beer, and games. Pensacola's famed Gallery Night will also take place on March 17th. Come out and support local artists and vendors! We hope to see you there!

Get ready for the beach bead bonanza season on the Emerald Coast! Celebrate Mardi Gras with our famous Krewes from now until the beginning of March. Krewes work all year preparing to entertain visitors and locals with Gulf Coast hospitality and fun! With events placed from the Flora-Bama all the way to Navarre, these must-see celebrations present the perfect opportunity to celebrate with family and friends. Out of the numerous, fun-filled events along the Emerald Coast, we have highlighted a few of the Mardi Gras events to give you a taste of what’s to come!

Celebrating for their 27th year, the Pirates of Lost Treasure host their 2023 Treasure Mardi Gras Flotilla with the theme “Let’s Get Shipwrecked!” Scheduled on February 4th, the parade will begin beside Holiday Harbor Marino at 11 am and end at the famed Flora-Bama 2:30 pm 2:30 pm. Floats will glide past viewing spots along the way including The Oyster Bar, Big Lagoon State Park, and Hub Stacey’s at Galvez Landing. Immediately following the parade, Pirates of Lost Treasure request you join them in full pirate attire for their Victory Party at the Flora-Bama Dome Stage! Don’t miss out on Perdido Key’s biggest Mardi Gras Flotilla!

Join the Navarre Krewe of Jesters a week later in their Music Through the Decades Mardi Gras Parade and Ball on Saturday, February 11th from 1 pm- 11 pm! Beginning the afternoon with their annual parade at 1 pm, Navarre plays the perfect host. Plans to supply fun lovers with food, a beer tent, ice cream, and live music establish the perfect setting for a good time! Later, the theme continues at the Krewe of Jesters Mardi Gras Ball! This is a Black-Tie event, so formal wear is a requirement. Purchase tickets to this ball through a krewe member or by emailing contact@nkoj.org! 

The following weekend, Pensacola kicks off its Mardi Gras with the Krewe of Lafitte Illuminated Mardi Gras Parade. Starting on February 17th at 7:30 pm, floats will brighten the night air with twinkling lights! This family-friendly parade is the only event during Mardi Gras where viewers get to see floats showcase their lights as they ride through Downtown Pensacola.

Continuing the celebration, the next day (February 18th), the Pensacola Grand Mardi Gras Parade takes place from 2 pm to 6 pm on Palafox and Garden street. Bringing the biggest crowd of people Downtown Pensacola sees all year, this parade includes almost all the Krewes this wonderful city can produce! Alcohol and tobacco restrictions will be in effect. A children’s area has been put in place so families can relax and feel safe throughout the day’s revelry. 

The last parade of the year is certainly not the least. Beginning at 2 pm on Pensacola Beach near Via DeLuna, the Krewe of Wrecks Mardi Gras Parade mixes music, dancing, candy, and beads with the crisp ocean air! After the parade, the fun continues. After-parties line Pensacola Beach Blvd while viewers wait for judges to make their final decision for the best Krewe of 2023. The biggest of these parties will be at the Sandshaker where live music and the party continues throughout the evening!

For more information: https://pensacolamardigras.com/events/ 

Maybe you are here for the holidays, or maybe just dreaming about being near the beach; Pensacola, Perdido Key, and Orange Beach do not disappoint! All three locations are hosting fabulous family-friendly events to help celebrate the season. Mark your calendar, grab a friend or family member, and see why our beach towns are the place to be for the holidays!

Pensacola Winterfest

This downtown series of holiday events include three different themed trolley rides (The Polar Express tour, The Grinch tour, and The Scrooge tour). Check out the video trailers for the tours in the link below! The tours run from December 9th through the 24th, and purchasing tickets in advance is recommended as tours do sell out. There are also photo opportunities with Santa and the Grinch. Reserve your time in advance.

Pensacola Winterfest 🎭 Christmas Fun for Everyone!

Flora-Bama Santa Drop, Make it to the Line Run/Walk, and Christmas Potluck

Flora-Bama has something for everyone during the holiday season! On December 10th Santa skydives to the beach at Flora-Bama and sits for pictures (and requests)! There will also be crafts, games, and live music. Santa visits and the activities are all FREE!

Saturday, December 17th is the annual “Make it to the Line Run/Walk.” There is a 4-Mile Run and 1- Mile Fun Run. The entry fee is $30, and part of the proceeds go to the local Secret Santa program benefitting families in need.

At noon on Christmas Day, Flora-Bama hosts their annual Christmas Potluck. This event is free to attend. Our local service members and veterans are honored and served first. Of course, Flora-Bama will have live music playing in several parts of the venue as well.

FLORA-BAMA SANTA DROP (florabama.com)

FLORA-BAMA MAKE IT TO THE LINE RUN & WALK (florabama.com)

FLORA-BAMA CHRISTMAS POTLUCK (florabama.com)

The Wharf – Orange Beach

The Wharf in beautiful Orange Beach, Alabama, has a December calendar full of holiday events and activities! From now through January 16th, go ice skating by the beach! The rink is open most days, and admission includes a skate rental.

On a few special nights, Holiday Horse & Carriage Rides will be offered along The Wharf Main Street. The remaining dates are December 9th, 11th, and 16th. The cost is $25 for a carriage for up to six adults.

The Wharf will once again offer train rides via the North Pole Express Train. The train will run from December 10th and December 17th through the 24th. The cost is $6 per passenger. Of course, Santa will also be at The Wharf on December 10th, as well as from December 16th through the 24th. Photo package costs vary.

The Wharf | Upcoming Events (alwharf.com)

Many people have come to believe that investing in real estate is a proven way to make money. However, there are many risks involved in real estate investing, and if you're not careful, you could find yourself losing a lot of money. This blog post discusses the top five mistakes people make when investing in real estate so that you can avoid them.

1. Not Doing Your Research

One of the biggest mistakes buyers make when investing in real estate is not doing their research. There are many things to consider when purchasing a property, such as the location, the condition of the property, and the potential rental income. If you don't take the time to do your research, you could end up with a property that doesn't appreciate in value or that is difficult to rent out. Taking the time to learn about the real estate market and doing your research before making any decisions is crucial to success as a real estate investor.

2. Overpaying for a Property

Another mistake people make is overpaying for a property. When you overpay for a property, you immediately put yourself at a disadvantage because you have less equity in the property and will need to generate a higher return just to break even. Not only that, but you also increase your risk of defaulting on your loan if the market turns and your rental income doesn't cover your mortgage payments. To avoid overpaying for a property, do your homework and know what the property is worth before making an offer. Work with a qualified real estate agent that can help you assess the value of the property and negotiate a fair price. And don't be afraid to walk away from a deal when the price isn't right. There are always other opportunities out there.

3. Not Keeping Up with Maintenance and Repairs

One of the most common mistakes investors make is failing to keep up with maintenance and repairs. Investing in real estate is a big commitment, and it's important to remember that your property is a long-term investment. That means you need to be prepared to budget for ongoing maintenance and repairs. Whether it's fixing a leaky roof or repainting the exterior of your property, neglecting to keep up with repairs can quickly eat into your profits. In addition, if you're planning on renting out your property, neglected maintenance and repairs can result in unhappy tenants who are reluctant to renew their lease.

To avoid costly mistakes, it is important to do your homework before investing in real estate. Once you've found the right property, be sure to consider the cost of ongoing maintenance and repairs when creating your budget. By doing so, you can help ensure that your real estate investment will be a profitable one.

4. Not Hiring a Professional Inspector

One of the more critical steps in purchasing a home is to have it inspected by a professional. A home inspector will look for any potential problems with the property, from structural issues to plumbing and electrical problems. However, many homebuyers try to save money by skipping this step. This can be a huge mistake, as an inspection can uncover serious problems that would otherwise go unnoticed. In some cases, these problems can be expensive to remedy, and they may even make the property uninhabitable. As such, it is always worth the investment to hire a professional inspector before making an offer on a home.

5. Not Getting Professional Help

Another mistake people make when investing in real estate is not getting professional help. Real estate can be a complex investment, and there are many things that you may not know about. Working with a qualified real estate agent or investment advisor can help you avoid making costly mistakes. These professionals can offer valuable insights and guidance putting you on the path to success.

Conclusion

Investing in real estate can be a great way to make money, but it is important to do your research and avoid making common mistakes. By following these tips, you can enhance your chances of success in the world of real estate investing.