3 Questions Affluent Families are Asking Me about 30A Right Now: 

Q & A With a Live 30A Broker: Jon Lyons

#1. What’s the outlook for 30A’s equity growth over the next 3-5 years? 

When looking at the future, it’s important to take a look at the past. We’ve complied data since 2000 (26 years) for the market, and it’s incredible to see the growth from a couple dozen sales a month to consistently between $2-3 Billion in annual sales each year.

In 2014, I witnessed the area’s highest sale by a LONG SHOT. A Gulf-front sale in Alys Beach (at the time, the only gulf front property – and one of the few south of 30A) sell for $8.5M and everyone was amazed. Today, most homes in Alys Beach sell for this amount or higher – and current sales’ are reaching near $30M for Gulf-front Alys Beach properties. Indeed, on 30A, there are already properties worth $50M+ that are not listed for sale, and soon… I believe we will become the next beach market in the US to break values of $100M+.

But for the average 30A property, I believe it’s perfectly reasonable to think that properties are likely to continue at a steady growth pattern in the 5-10% range. 2026 is growing at a steady 7% rate overall year over year.

The bigger opportunities will be new builds and renovations.

#2. Where’s the place to buy for best rental income & great beach access? 

While not a rule, but a suggestion — Seaside, Watercolor, Rosemary and now Gulf Place + Greenway Station area are the main attractions on 30A for families to bike, walk, and explore. This is also where the local farmers markets are on the weekends, where you’ll find great coffee, food and things to do.

Buying “In” those communities takes full advantage of the amenities and beach accesses — but it’s often the adjacent properties to the community that can scoop up the highest ROI… as guests and owners can stroll into town, yet not have to pay the premium for officially being “in” the neighborhood. Seagrove Beach, Seacrest and Inlet are the best examples.

PS – While these area’s may produce great rental income, it’s more important to know “what” makes a great rental. Here’s the top 5:

1. A private pool that can be heated. (community pool is a second)
2. South of 30A
3. Access to a good beach access –> Get the Beach Access Guide Here
4. Looks great and stands out from the crowd in a good way
5. Golf Cart availability

#3. Where are the private non-rental communities on 30A? 

They are hidden in plain sight, just as they should be.

1. Watercolor Phase 5
2. Draper Lake
3. Heritage Dunes
4. White Cliffs
5. Sand Cliffs
6. Forest Lakes
7. The Retreat
8. Paradise by the Sea
9. Ridgewalk
10. Watersound Camp Creek

Runner Ups:

1. Watersound Beach
2. Watersound West Beach