Events, Real Estate Trends & Coastal Living
As summer winds down, Gulf Shores and Orange Beach are still buzzing with beach days, community events, and an active real estate market. Whether you're a full-time resident, vacation homeowner, or considering buying along Alabama's Gulf Coast, September is a great time to enjoy everything our area has to offer.
Here's what's happening this month and what the latest housing numbers mean for buyers and sellers.
Jeep Fest Arrives in Gulf Shores This September
One of the biggest new events coming to the coast is the inaugural Gulf of America Jeep Fest, taking place September 24–27.
The Hangout will serve as the main event hub, featuring:
- Jeep displays
- Vendors
- Family-friendly activities
- Beach gatherings
- Community events throughout Gulf Shores
As a Jeep owner myself, this is one event I'm especially excited about. If you're visiting the area, it's the perfect excuse to spend a few extra days enjoying the beach while checking out everything the festival has to offer.
August 2026 Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Housing Market Update
The latest Baldwin REALTORS® report gives us a snapshot of what happened in August.
Coastal Condos
- 81 condos sold
- Average sales price: $697,805
- Average days on market: 129
Coastal Homes
- 78 homes sold
- Average sales price: $910,922
- Average days on market: 84
Resort Area Overview
Across the broader Resort Area, 156 homes sold during August compared to 185 sales in August 2025, showing a slightly slower pace than last year.
What Do These Numbers Actually Mean?
Market averages are helpful, but they rarely tell the whole story.
For example, two condos in the same building can have dramatically different values depending on:
- Water views
- Floor level
- Renovations
- Rental income history
- HOA fees
- Special assessments
- Current market demand
That's why I always encourage buyers and sellers to look beyond countywide averages and evaluate properties individually.
Coastal Condo Tip of the Month
One of the questions I hear most often is:
"What will this condo actually cost me after closing?"
Purchase price is only part of the equation.
Before making an offer, make sure you understand:
- HOA dues
- Insurance costs
- Current or upcoming assessments
- Rental restrictions
- Reserve funding
- Monthly ownership expenses
A beautiful waterfront condo becomes an even better investment when you fully understand the long-term costs of ownership.
Looking Ahead: National Shrimp Festival
Another Gulf Coast favorite returns October 8–11 with the Annual National Shrimp Festival.
It's one of the area's signature events featuring:
- Fresh Gulf seafood
- Live music
- Local artists
- Shopping
- Family activities
- Beautiful beachfront views
If you're planning a fall visit to Gulf Shores, it's definitely worth adding to your calendar.
Helpful Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Resources
Whether you're visiting or living here full time, these resources are always worth bookmarking:
- Local events calendar
- Fresh seafood restaurants
- Cook Your Catch restaurants
- Community happenings throughout the Gulf Coast
Wondering What Your Property Is Worth?
Countywide market reports are informative—but they can't tell you what your home or condo is worth.
If you're curious about your building, neighborhood, or a specific address, I'd be happy to prepare a personalized market analysis using the most comparable recent sales.
Whether you're thinking about buying, selling, or simply keeping an eye on your investment, I'm always happy to help.