Page 124 - South Mississippi Living - July, 2017

BOSAR health of market
Biloxi-Ocean Springs Real Estate Market
story by Kelsey Sunderman-Foster photos courtesy of Mary Ann Westfall and Billie Myrick
Mary Ann Westfall
Billie Myrick
The Mississippi Gulf Coast is a gem,
and when it comes to real estate, there’s no denying its allure. From museums to education and entertainment, the area has a lot to offer.
Biloxi and Ocean Springs are two of
the hottest locations for prospective homebuyers, largely due to the communities. “The top of people’s bullet lists, when it comes to looking for a new home, is how they see themselves living there,” said Billie Myrick
good condition with just a few changes to be made over time.”
Of course trends change, but many trends do come back into fashion. “White cabinets were considered outdated
15 years ago, but now everyone is looking for that clean, Pottery Barn look.” Myrick commented. “Another interesting thing I’m seeing is that people are leaning towards more private and compartmentalized homes. With
of Moran Realty. “That includes anything from school districts to the neighborhood in general.”
“People here care for others and it truly is a great place to live”
everything being so out there and public on social media, buyers are used to being exposed everyday and want to be more private at home.”
“Split bedrooms are important for a lot of buyers, as are high ceilings” Westfall said. “In terms of location, that really depends on their position in life. People with young children want to have a lifestyle that will fit their needs, whereas younger couples might be
Despite the huge demand
for homes in the area,
there is a shortage of
available homes in the
market. But what does that
mean for homebuyers?
“The shortage of inventory
is great for sellers,” said
Mary Ann Westfall of Keller Williams Realty. “With a low supply of available homes, they’re able to sell their property for a great price. Homes in the $150,000- $200,000 range are especially in demand.”
looking for somewhere with an upbeat nightlife scene.”
No matter what buyers’ top interests are, local realtors are confident there’s something for everyone. “The Coast is growing constantly,” remarked Myrick. “People here care for others and it truly is a great place to live. People stumble into places like downtown Ocean Springs and wonder where this place has been their whole lives.”
So what are buyers looking for in their new homes? “Though there will always be the investor types, a lot of people are looking for homes they can move into without having to do much remodeling,” Myrick said. “They want a home that’s in
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