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        <title>Real Estate Blog</title>
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    <guid>https://www.edgemonpropertygroup.com/blog/peaceful-protected-fort-morgan/</guid>
    <link>https://www.edgemonpropertygroup.com/blog/peaceful-protected-fort-morgan/</link>
        <author>paigetownley@gmail.com (Paige Townley)</author>
        <title>Peaceful , Protected - Fort Morgan </title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
In Fort Morgan, tranquility isn't just a word. It's a way of life. 


HISTORY


There is perhaps no other milirary site in Alabama more significant than Fort Morgan. Although construction of Fort Morgan didn't begin until 1819, the site's military history atually dates back to the 1780's when it was originally home to Fort Bower - a fort involved in the War of 1812.  Fort Morgan was completed in 1834 and has guarded Mobile Bay ever since.  &quot;The fort is essentially a time capsule because there has been very little encrouchment on the site&quot;, says Mike Baily, Fort Morgan's site and education director. &quot;You can look at the fort and almost see the evolution of American seacoat fortification history, from 1819 when the fort began all the way to WWII.&quot;


The largest permanent military base in the state between 1898 and 1924, Fort Morgan was active during four wars: the Civil War, the Spanish American War, and World Wars I and II.  Today, visitors can tour the National Historic Landmark to explore its unique military history.   &quot;Because the site has been so greatly preserved for years, visitors can essentially see the fort in the same condition the army left it in in the 1940's&quot; Baily says.  &quot;From my point of view, that's one thing that makes it so special: you can walk in and know where something specific happened on a certain day. There is such a sense of history as you walk through the fort.&quot;


NATURE


For decades, Fort Morgan has served as a safe haven for wildlife thanks to the Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge.  Almost 7,000 acres of the Fort Morgan Peninsula comprise the wildlife habitat of Bon Secour, which literally means &quot;safe harbor&quot; in French.  Originally, the refuge was established for migratory birds that travel south in the fall and north in the spring.  The area is a significant resting and feeding area for birds during migration after ( or before ) the long stretch of flying over the Gulf of Mexico.  Also protected at the refuge are endangered species such as loggerhead sea turtles and the Alabama beach mouse.  Thanks to the refuge's extensive trail system, visitors can hike through the area to observe the varieties of wildlife.  &quot;We have more sea turtle nests here in Fort Morgan than anywhere else in Alabama,&quot; said Brittany Petersen of the refuge.&quot;  And because Fort Morgan has the natural dune system, we are the last remaining home of the Alabama beach mouse.&quot;


SPORT &amp; RELAXATION


While Fort Morgan may be best known for its historic fort and wildlife refuge, sport and relaxation don't trail far behind.  Much of the peninsula's land is federally protected wildlife habitat, and what's not is much less dense than the nearby cities of Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, making for a calmer and quieter retreat.  &quot;Here in Fort Morgan, instead of noisy crowds and heavy traffic, you're more likely to hear the sounds of waves crashing and wildlife scampering,&quot; states local resident and owner of As You Wish Weddings, Candy Randall, &quot;It feels a world away from the tourist spots just down the road.&quot;


When not enjoying a hike through the wildlife refuge, lounging on the beach, or swimming in the Gulf's bright blue waters, there's plenty of activity to be enjoyed.  Fort Morgan offers a variety of recreational fishing opportunities both in the Gulf and the Bay with a variety of public boat ramps and commercial marinas.  For those who prefer the greens instead of the water, Fort Morgan is home to 63 holes of golf between three distinct golf courses-all within just a few miles.  &quot;Fort Morgan may be small, but the recreational opportunities here are seemingly endless,&quot; adds Fort Morgan resident and Sassy Bass Beach Grill manager Adam Williams.  &quot;A vacation here offers much more than just beach or pool time-you can hike, bike, play tennis, play golf and fish-just to name a few.  And all without the hassle of traffic and crowds.&quot;


KIVA DUNES


Perhaps no destination in Fort Morgan embodies the spirit of the area more than Kiva Dunes.  Named after an American Indian word describing physical and spiritual renewal, Kiva Dunes offers the ultimate seaside setting on 280 acres of secluded property on the Fort Morgan Peninsula.   Warm days, spectacular views, and cool sea breezes can be enjoyed from any of the resorts luxurious Gulf front homes, quaint cottages, and modern condominiums.  And only at Kiva Dunes can guests enjoy a private beach.  Outlined by unspoiled sand dunes and the turquoise waters of the Gulf of Mexico, Kiva's beach is 3,000 feet of pristing white sand.  Just steps away is its world-renowned championship golf course. Designed by US Open Champion Jerry Pate, the Kiva Dunes Golf Course has been ranked the number one golf course in Alabama-and one of the top courses in the country-time and again for its challenging design and unforgetable coastal atmosphere. &quot;When Kiva Dunes was developed in 1995, it completely changed the landscape of golfing on the Gulf Coast,&quot; says Tim McCrory, real estate director at Kiva Dunes.  &quot;With its incredible location between the Gulf and the Bay, Kiva Dunes is literally a one-of-a-kind resort&quot;


Although already known as a premier destinatation in Fort Morgan, Kiva Dunes is adding to its appealing amenties with a $1.5 million dollar golf course renovation-slated to be completed in October 2015-and the construction of a Gulf-side Pool Pavilion, which is scheduled to open in 2016.  &quot;The time could not be more perfect to invest in the Fort Morgan and Kiva Dunes real estate market than it is right now,&quot; Tim says.  &quot;Now is the time to buy for anyone who wants to experience all that Kiva Dunes and Fort Morgan have to offer&quot;


For more information about Kiva Dunes or the Fort Morgan area, contact Tim McCrory at 251.540.7100 or tim@kivadunes.com 
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Thu, 01 Oct 2015 23:55:00 -0500</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.edgemonpropertygroup.com/blog/why-not-build-from-concept-to-completion-we-can-help/</guid>
    <link>https://www.edgemonpropertygroup.com/blog/why-not-build-from-concept-to-completion-we-can-help/</link>
        <author>tim@kivadunes.com (Tim McCrory)</author>
        <title>Why Not Build?  From Concept to Completion, We Can Help.</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
In today's Gulf Coast market, building a new home rarely seems to cross the minds of many buyers.  In fact, most potential buyers would say, &quot;Why Build?&quot;  That's a completely logical question, especially when there is still a large inventory of unsold homes for sale.  But the reality is that it's not always easy finding an existing home that will meet your expectations. 


Since the real estate crash in 2007, there has been very little new construction offered in the area.  So, even if you are able to find a home that comes close to meeting your criteria, chances are it will still need updating and repair work.


New construction actually provides several benefits to the homeowner, most importantly the new building codes.  Today's codes not only exceed most standards to meet any storm without suffering damage, they also allow for significant reductions in insurance costs.


I've been fortunate to live on the Gulf Coast for more than 25 years.  During this time, I have had the priveledge of meeting many well respected craftspeople in the construction industry that have a wealth of knowledge - knowledge they are willing to share throughout the construction process that will keep you at ease while building a new home. 


I know building comes with its own set of unique challenges, but anything worthwhile usually does.  So don't be daunted. Explore our Coast. Let me be your guide.  Find your inner architect.  Search through that pile of home and garden magazines or websites like houzz.com to find the perfect ideas for your custom home.  Let's design and build a home you an your family can enjoy for generations. 
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Wed, 26 Aug 2015 12:31:00 -0500</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.edgemonpropertygroup.com/blog/owning-a-gulf-front-home-may-be-more-affordable-than-you-think/</guid>
    <link>https://www.edgemonpropertygroup.com/blog/owning-a-gulf-front-home-may-be-more-affordable-than-you-think/</link>
        <author>tim@kivadunes.com (Tim McCrory)</author>
        <title>Owning a Gulf Front Home May be More Affordable Than you Think</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
Ever dreamed of owning a home on the Gulf of Mexico? I would guess that the answer is probably yes. This desire is universal for many reasons: waking up to the soft, gentle sounds of the waves breaking on the shoreline, feeling the cool breeze through an open window, and watching the sun rise over the horizon.  This pictureque scenario is sure to excite anyone.  But many feel this dream is impossible because of &quot;Reality&quot;.  You may be asking yourself, &quot;Is there any way I could possibly afford a beach house?&quot;


The answer may very well be, yes, you can afford it.  Vacationers continue to flock to Alabama's pristine white sandy beaches in record numbers. Guests from all over the country discover the Gulf Shores area year after year.  The resulting revenues generated from beach home rentals are astounding. Combined with interest rates being at the lowest level in history, the actual cost of ownership provides an incredible opportunity to not only make the dream come true, but also is a practical way to invest in your financial future. 


Anyone with viable credit and the ability to put 20 to 30 down on a new mortgage to finance a family vacation beach house may be very surprised at how the numbers justify this investment.  Simply put, rental revenues for some beach homes reach upwards to 15 of the Purchase Price annualy. Even after expenses like mortgage, rental managment, insurance, taxes, utilities, and maintenance, the net return to the owner exceeds all costs of ownership. 


So the real &quot;Reality&quot; is this: affording a beach house may actually be more sensible than you think. Property prices are already on the rise, so act today before the numbers don't add up.  Call or email me now to receive property specific return on investment brochures outlining in detail how owning a beach house is actually more affordable than you would ever believe. 
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Tue, 25 Aug 2015 13:11:00 -0500</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.edgemonpropertygroup.com/blog/foreclosure-and-short-sale-success/</guid>
    <link>https://www.edgemonpropertygroup.com/blog/foreclosure-and-short-sale-success/</link>
        <author>tim@kivadunes.com (Tim McCrory)</author>
        <title>Foreclosure and Short Sale Success</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
Looks like we are finally going to see some warmer weather. This is welcome news.  I'm not sure I've seen a winter this severe in my 21 years living on the Gulf Coast.  Hope everyone is planning a Beach Getaway soon. 

 Before I discuss ways to be successful buying Foreclosures and Short Sales, here's a brief summary for 2009. There were 1,460 total foreclosures and 4,210 Notice of Default, the latter being a 168 percent increase over 2008.  What's interesting is the dollar values.  Total foreclosures amounted to $383 million and the Notices of Default have a market value in excess of $1.3 billion so there's plenty of Bank inventory coming in 2010.  This appears to be grim news until you realize that in January alone over $114 million in property sales were recorded in Baldwin County.  The market is finally heating up.  The last three contracts I submitted were each met with competing offers so informed Buyers are taking advantage of distressed property values.  

First and foremost, I believe anyone considering buying along our Coast should be actively IDENTIFYING which communities, developments, condominium projects or types of property investments that are best suited to their goals. Secondly, When targeting distressed properties it's vitally important to already have in place the means to purchase. Banks and Asset Managers require Pre-approval or Proof of Funds letters with the submission of any offers. Lastly, Be prepared to close quickly-no later than 30 days from acceptance. Why is this important?

Foreclosures and Shorts Sales are being targeted by savvy investors today so the importance of narrowing your focus to a select few properties that may be of interest is foremost. If we know for instance that you would like to buy a three bedroom condominium in Caribe Resort, I'm able to follow new listings, price changes, notices of default, go preview and generally address any issues needed to make an informed decision. 

Next, Now that we know the WHERE it's time to know the HOW. New FHA lending rules have changed and getting financing has become increasingly difficult. Even with impeccable credit there are few lenders offering financing so it's necessary to start this process early. We've already established a target property list so knowing the amount necessary to fund the transaction is relatively clear.  Now we can make contact with lenders or hold cash reserves so as to be prepared when that perfect buying opportunity presents itself.

SUCCESS-Since we've conducted the majority of our due diligence we are able to present an offer free of any contingencies prepared to close quickly. This may all seem counter intuitive but let's put the shoe on the other foot. As mentioned earlier the last three offers I've submitted had multiple offers.  If you were in charge of the file for the Bank or Owner of a property trying to execute a Short Sale which offer would be more attractive. One subject to financing, inspection and delayed closing or one free of contingencies prepared to close almost immediately. Simple answer.

There is a perceived notion that the condo market at the Beach is overwhelmed with inventory but looking closer you'll discover otherwise.  As of this writing there are only 35 Direct Gulf Front condo's built since 2000 on the market listed as Foreclosure or Short Sale. Of these 15 are Under Contract.  This easily demonstrates that the best projects are in demand and short supply so following the steps outlined above and opening up a dialog now may be the difference in Success or Failure.

I'm reminded of the scene in Jerry Maguire when Jerry is admonishing his client to &quot;LET ME HELP YOU-LET ME HELP YOU&quot; then he follows this rant by stating &quot;THEN I'LL SHOW YOU THE QUAN&quot;. QUAN=SUCCESS.

Let's get started.

CHEERS,

Tim 

 
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Fri, 12 Mar 2010 14:16:02 -0600</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.edgemonpropertygroup.com/blog/new-wave-of-foreclosures-on-the-way/</guid>
    <link>https://www.edgemonpropertygroup.com/blog/new-wave-of-foreclosures-on-the-way/</link>
        <author>tim@kivadunes.com (Tim McCrory)</author>
        <title>New Wave of Foreclosures on the Way</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ In our last blog, I talked about ways we can identify and investigate foreclosures and short sales. Today, I'd like to pass along some numbers from the October 2009 Baldwin County Trend Report. Just this month we saw 122 properties fall into foreclosure with an additional 377 Notices of Default. Year to Date 2009, we've seen 1,182 Foreclosures with 3,553 Notices of Default. These numbers represent increases of 19 and 249 respectively from Year End numbers from 2008.What I find most interesting is the difference in the number of recorded Foreclosures and the actual Notices of Default (2,371).  Just this number alone will double the total of all foreclosures in 2008. If on average 300 new notices of default are being sent each month, we can easily anticipate 3000 new distressed properties to find their way to the Baldwin County Market in the last quarter of 2009 and first quarter of 2010. There was a ray of sunshine in the Trend Report as Re-sale numbers for homes, lots and condo's saw an average 7 increase in activity from 2008.  The up trend appears to be continuing as inventory levels in our Multiple Listing Service are on the decline. In October we saw over $42 million in closed condo sales and almost $47 million in Single Family homes sold.So we are seeing a mixed bag of data showing more foreclosures headed our way while at the same time a suggestion that more property is being sold. There is no question that &quot;BUYERS&quot; are benefitting the most from the struggles in this market and if you are a Seller you have to be prepared to compete with REO's and SHORT SALES.I'm continually researching Foreclosures and Notices of Default and I'm developing direct relationships with Lenders so I can be the first to uncover new investments opportunities. If you are interested in buying now or in the future please take the time and fill out my &quot;Buyers Survey&quot; and I'll  forward any property matches as soon as they cross my path. Next Blog soon- Investing in Real Estate with your IRA.cheers,Tim  ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Wed, 18 Nov 2009 20:41:09 -0600</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.edgemonpropertygroup.com/blog/fingertips-and-foreclosures/</guid>
    <link>https://www.edgemonpropertygroup.com/blog/fingertips-and-foreclosures/</link>
        <author>tim@kivadunes.com (Tim McCrory)</author>
        <title>Fingertips and Foreclosures</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
Welcome to my first blog and our new site for Edgemon Properties.  I hope both prove to be helpful in bringing the most relevant real estate information your way about the Alabama Gulf Coast.

As everyone is well aware, times are tough with cash and buyers scarce.  Well with little demand and tremendous supply only one result is certain: price pressure.  This price pressure equals a market full of foreclosures, properties close to foreclosure and other sellers just willing to get out at almost any price.  How do we identify these distressed properties and find these values?

This is actually quite easy, but first requires some handy tools which are at my fingertips with the use of today’s technology and the vast information open to the public domain.  Fortunately in today’s world I do not have to go to the probate office and fumble through reams of paperwork.  I only have to subscribe to a service which provides me with monthly updates on all sales transactions recorded in Baldwin County and weekly updates on Lis Pendens filings, properties headed towards foreclosure.  Even with this information it still requires a fairly good grasp of our market to understand which properties are worth further investigation.

Once I determine to find out more about a specific property, whether distressed or not, a couple of other resources provide some meaningful help, both can be found on Baldwin County’s website.  One tool is a map viewer provided through the Revenue Department which has aerial photography of all properties located in the county.  The other is offered through the Probate Department, where I can pull up liens, mortgages, easements, articles of incorporation for L.L.C.’s, judgments, etc.  This is all very useful when deciding the best way to pursue purchasing a property.

One other source we can use to find foreclosures and short sales is our local multiple listing service (MLS).  A link to all listed foreclosures and possible short sales can be found with one click on the home page of our site and these listings are updated every 24 hours.  Take some time and look around our new site- the only real estate resource you need for Alabama’s Gulf Coast.

Stay tuned, I’ll be providing a new blog each week

Tim M.
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    <pubDate>Wed, 07 Oct 2009 12:41:55 -0500</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.edgemonpropertygroup.com/blog/welcome-to-the-new-edgemon-property-group-site/</guid>
    <link>https://www.edgemonpropertygroup.com/blog/welcome-to-the-new-edgemon-property-group-site/</link>
        <author>tim@kivadunes.com (Tim McCrory)</author>
        <title>Welcome to the new Edgemon Property Group site</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
We are very proud to reveal our new web site.  If you can't find the new home, condo or property you're looking for please contact us directly for a unique search to fit your needs.

We are always happy to help and want to make sure you find the perfect property.

Please check back regularly as we will be updating the featured properties and our listings continuously.

Sincerely,

The Edgemon Property Group 
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Wed, 07 Oct 2009 12:25:07 -0500</pubDate>
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