Mike Wiley Realtor

10/15/2026

BUYERS!!! NOW is the time to make your move!! Mikewiley.Realtor, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices PenFed Realty Emerald Coast [email protected], 251-213-1507

10/15/2026

U.S. Builder Sentiment Hits 12-Month Low
Builder sentiment across the U.S. has reached its lowest point in a year, with the confidence index dropping 3 points to 32 in late Q3. Sales conditions and six-month expectations have both softened, while buyer traffic remains steady at 23. Notably, 38% of builders have reduced prices, and incentives are now being offered by two-thirds—an uptick from mid-Q3. The mortgage side is showing similar headwinds, as applications for new-home purchases have declined for five consecutive months, with average 30-year rates hovering in the high-6% range and edging toward 7%. Many large builders are turning to rate buydowns to help buyers secure below-market rates, a tactic that supports sales without relying only on cutting home prices. Looking ahead, housing forecasters expect these higher rates to persist into 2027. After decades working with buyers and sellers along Alabama’s Gulf Coast—including luxury, waterfront, golf, and first-time homes—I know how quickly market shifts can impact both your real estate options and strategies. Staying informed and adaptable is always key when navigating changing conditions.

10/15/2026

Come on everyone!! It’s the time to make a move!! Mikewiley.realtor Berkshire Hathaway PenFed [email protected]

10/14/2026

Alabama Home Sales Beat Last Year’s Pace
As we look back at Mid-Q3, Alabama’s real estate market continued to show its unique seasonal rhythm. We saw 6,680 homes sold—down 9.3% from the previous month, which is right in line with the usual slowdown as summer wraps up. Median prices edged back a bit to around $277,800, a 3.5% decrease from Early-Q3, and the total value of homes sold reached $2.19 billion, down 10.2% month-over-month. Buyers had more options than before, with active listings climbing to 22,360 and housing supply widening from 4.1 to 4.6 months across the state. Mortgage rates hovered near 7%, and with the affordability index steady at 90, it’s clear that many families are still feeling the pinch of higher borrowing costs. An economist has predicted prices might dip a little further as we head into Late-Q3, with the market likely to cool some more as the year winds down. After 35 years helping buyers and sellers in Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, and surrounding communities—including waterfront, golf, luxury, and first-time purchases—I’ve seen these cycles firsthand. This season’s numbers reinforce the importance of timing and knowing where to look, whether you’re planning your next move or considering a new investment.

10/13/2026

How much is your Home Worth?
Find out if it's time to sell your home
https://www.roomvu.com/estimates?branded-user=michael-wiley-2172585&share=true&c=2026-09-23

10/13/2026

Baldwin County Homebuyers Can Get Up to $85,000 in Homeownership Assistance
For those considering a move to Baldwin County or looking to put down roots after the challenges of Hurricanes Sally and Zeta, there’s significant support available: income-qualified households can receive up to $85,000 in homeownership assistance. This can go toward your down payment, closing costs, and more, provided the property becomes your primary residence for at least five years. With over 35 years guiding buyers across Gulf Shores, Fairhope, Foley, and the surrounding areas—whether luxury, waterfront, golf communities, or first-time homes—I’ve seen the difference these programs can make. For anyone navigating the local market, especially along the coast, this kind of opportunity is a real game changer.

10/12/2026

Gulf Shores Weighs New Home Business Rules
Gulf Shores is moving forward with updates to its home business zoning rules, reflecting the shift we've all seen in how and where we work. Local estimates now show that work-from-home activity has jumped from around 3% to nearly 20%, prompting city officials to consider allowing more than one home business per residence and introducing standard signed owner letters. Importantly, the fundamental safeguards will remain—home businesses are still limited to 20% of the main building (up to 500 sq ft), must be run by resident family members, and still can't offer direct retail. As someone who's spent over 35 years helping clients buy and sell homes and commercial properties in Gulf Shores and nearby communities, I always keep an eye on changes like these that could impact property value and lifestyle. The city planning staff has recommended approval of a commercial site plan that includes new sidewalks, a multiuse path, and preservation of a beautiful Heritage Live Oak. On September 22, 2026, the commission will review these proposals and planning updates. I’ll be following this closely, as these decisions shape our neighborhoods and investment opportunities throughout the area.

10/12/2026