Page 123 - South Mississippi Living - July, 2017

“It is no surprise that we can’t keep a large inventory of homes on the market. The summer months are busy for our Coast. With Shucker’s games, Harrah’s summer concerts and the islands being only a short boat ride away there is something drawing everyone to live
in our beautiful cities,” says Carlene Alfonso, veteran realtor and CEO of Coldwell Banker Alfonso Realty.
“What’s most important to prospective buyers used to be location, location, location, but nowadays it’s about how they see themselves in that community,” said Billie Myrick of Moran Realty in Ocean Springs. “The pieces have to fit. For many, Ocean Springs has all the amenities to be the perfect fit.”
Ocean Springs is known for its quaint, small-town feel
and unique local hangouts, so it comes
as no surprise that prospective homebuyers have set their sights on the Jackson County city.
“Downtown Ocean
Springs is definitely a
real estate hot spot,”
Myrick said. “People are drawn to the simple lifestyle that Ocean Springs offers, from festivals to the walkability of the area. Not having to get in the car to go places is a huge selling point.”
On any given weekend, the ‘City of Discovery’ is bustling with activity, from open-air events to leisurely family outings. The city’s parks and child- friendly amenities make it a huge hit for families with young ones.
“Ocean Springs is a very good school district,” said Mary Ann Westfall of Keller Williams Realty. “Not only the district
as a whole, but the individual schools
themselves, making the city a perfect choice for those with children or looking to have children in the future.”
Biloxi Mayor Andrew ‘FoFo’ Gillich thinks his city has what it takes to attract home buyers and businesses. “Biloxi is a special place and my job is to make sure people realize that,” he said. “I think most of our residents know that or they wouldn’t live here. We have a 315-year- old brand and it’s a vibrant city.”
The mayor feels the three most important quality-of-life factors are the people, location on the water and special sense of place.
“Commercial construction is being seen all along the beach in Biloxi, with new entertainment, dining and hotels,”
Alfonso adds. “More recently, the city has focused on revitalizing and growing its downtown segment. The constant improvements only add to the
natural beauty of our Coast, making it more appealing for locals while also drawing new residents.”
For both of these Coast cities, that sense of place is never more evident than in the abundant, beautiful natural scenery that includes majestic Live Oaks, parks, rivers, bays, the Mississippi Sound, the barrier islands, and the sand beach with all its family-friendly activities. Year-round outdoor activities are also big selling points and include fishing, boating, hunting, bird watching, tennis and golf.
Both cities can boast of having museums, art galleries, historic places, live entertainment — including sports — outstanding school systems, great restaurants and plentiful shopping.
FOR MORE REFLECTIONS OF THE GULF COAST >> www.smliving.net July 2017 • SOUTH MISSISSIPPI Living 123