Choosing a Proven Luxury Realtor in Destin, Florida
Destin has quietly evolved into one of the Gulf Coast’s most coveted luxury markets, and it’s easy to see why. Sugar-white sand, emerald water, and a laid-back atmosphere set the stage for a Gulf-front lifestyle that feels both elevated and effortless. Add in championship golf courses, refined shopping destinations, marinas, and a unique dining scene, and Destin continues to attract homebuyers and savvy investors from across the country.
With high demand and limited inventory, success in finding high-end real estate in Destin’s luxury market depends on more than timing. It requires the right representation with the inside scoop! Partnering with a seasoned luxury realtor opens doors to off-market opportunities, strategic pricing insight, and confident negotiation.
The Locals Group is proud to be a Christie’s International Real Estate affiliate, bringing global reach with true local expertise. With over $100 million in closed sales along the Emerald Coast, our team is deeply connected to Destin and its surrounding communities. We don’t just sell homes. We guide our clients into the lifestyle, relationships, and long-term value that make owning in Destin so exceptional.
What Makes a Realtor a True Luxury Specialist?
Proven track record and sales volume. The Locals Group has closed over $100 million in transactions along the Florida Panhandle and has been recognized with numerous awards and magazine features over the years. Check them out, here!
Specialized certifications. Many top agents hold themselves to the highest industry standards. The Locals Group is an affiliate of Christie’s International Real Estate Emerald Coast, a member of the National Association of Realtors, and holds a Broker Associate license in the state of Florida with a reciprocal Sales Associate license for the State of Alabama.
Exceptional marketing reach. Brand networks matter! A partnership with Christie’s International Real Estate allows The Locals Group to offer the best of both worlds: prestige, reach, and resources of a global luxury powerhouse paired with authentic local expertise, proven results, and a modern approach to real estate along the Emerald Coast. Not to mention, the referral network is top-notch, giving you the flexibility to remain a client within the brand whenever you are in the world for whatever your real estate needs may be.
Local expertise and relationships. The top tier of real estate agents along the Emerald Coast don’t just sell real estate, they live it! The Locals Group, for example, combines local market knowledge with community involvement and a client‑first approach to gain an understanding of each community and the businesses and business owners that thrive in them.
Tailored service and negotiation savvy. Top Destin real estate agents like Kersten Bowman stress creative negotiation techniques (seller financing, buyer incentives, and cost‑plus contributions) and a focus on presenting a lifestyle, not just a property. Plus, they have to have a passion for it!
Luxury Reality
Living a life of luxury is often a goal for people. But what is luxury if you cannot LIVE in it? After all, life is messy, and luxury can be messy too!
Destin Luxury Real‑Estate Market Snapshot
In 2026, Destin has become a much more balanced market where buyers and sellers have negotiating power to achieve the goal: a sale. But this varies by price tier and property quality. Premium homes with truly exceptional amenities and locations still attract competition and interest from out-of-state buyers, military transients, and investors, helping sustain pricing and keep select inventory moving briskly when properly showcased.
Top Luxury Neighborhoods & Communities
Destiny by the Sea
An exclusive gated enclave with private beach access. Homes often feature Gulf views, private pools, and rental‑friendly policies. Price range: $3–$8 million in this charming, beachfront community.
Kelly Plantation
A golf‑course community along Choctawhatchee Bay with luxury estates, custom builds, townhomes, and high-rise condominium complexes. Well landscaped and maintained, the gated community features tennis courts, walking trails, and a fitness center. The community is not short-term rental-friendly and appeals mainly to primary and secondary home owners. Prices range from $1–$7 million.
Regatta Bay
Known for its championship golf course, lakefront lots and local marina, Regatta also features tennis and pickle ball courts, a playground, and a community pool with close connection to The Destin Commons shopping center. Homes range from $1–$7 million.
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Holiday Isle
A peninsula with deep‑water canal homes ideal for boaters. The community maintains sidewalks, public beach access, and panoramic water views between the Gulf and the harbor. Waterfront properties range from $1–$6 million.
Crystal Beach
Charming cottages and Gulf‑view beach homes within walking distance of white‑sand beaches. Homes typically feature a small yard, private pools, and some with carriage houses. Prices from $800K to $4 million.
Miramar Beach & Sandestin
Resort‑style communities offering luxury condos, beachfront estates and golf‑course homes. These planned communities are centered around a work, live, play development and have high-end amenities. Prices range from $400K to $8 million.
Within the greater Destin area, a diverse collection of communities offers an exceptional range of lifestyles and home styles. Prices span roughly $300,000 to over $10 million, making Destin accessible to everyone from first-time coastal buyers to ultra-luxury investors. Whether you’re drawn to charming beach neighborhoods, gated golf communities, deep-water boating enclaves, or iconic Gulf-front estates, there truly is something for everyone!
Learn About The Destin Community
Learn About The Miramar Beach Community
Learn About The Niceville Community
Why Experience Matters When Buying Or Selling Luxury
Seasoned agents save clients time and money by combining experience, strategy, and strong local relationships. In a competitive market like Destin, proven expertise means smarter pricing, quicker decision-making, and fewer costly surprises.
At The Locals Group, our market insight helps clients identify true value, negotiate confidently, and access off-market opportunities that aren’t available to the public. Long-term relationships with agents, builders, and local professionals streamline transactions and create leverage at the negotiating table.
The result is a more efficient process, better terms, and a seamless experience that protects both your investment and your time. It is true what they say: “Time is money”.
Common Services Offered By Top Luxury Realtors
Strategic market analysis & pricing – Leveraging real-time data and local insight to position homes for maximum exposure and optimal value.
Professional photography & videography – Elevated visuals and virtual tours that highlight a home’s design, setting, and lifestyle appeal. A house is more than just a property. It is a home! Let’s showcase it like one they want to live in.
Custom luxury marketing – A tailored approach that blends targeted local exposure with global reach through Christie’s International Real Estate, including access to an international referral network, premier media partnerships, and one of the world’s most visited luxury real estate platforms.
Off-market opportunities – Insider access to private and pocket listings before they reach the MLS. It is not what you know that may make all the difference. It is who you know!
Personalized buyer representation – Guiding clients through property selection, negotiations, HOA details, rental guidelines, and financing considerations.
Seamless transaction management – Expert coordination from contract to close.
Tips For Luxury Home Buyers
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Focus on unchangeables – In our opinion, buyers should look beyond the finishes and prioritize elements like location, structural integrity, and view. If you can position yourself by a body of water, that may just be a game-changer for a profit return!
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Know your numbers – Stick to a budget! Real estate can become a very emotional process, whether negotiating for the dollar or for the ego. Sellers should set a clear bottom line. Buyers should know their maximum dollar to spend.
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Don’t fear renovations – Thoughtful upgrades can unlock value in older properties. It doesn’t need to be extensive. A little flair here and there can go a long way, whether that's seen within the value of a dollar or by demand.
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Be creative in negotiations – Every real estate transaction is different and, believe it or not, not everything is about the money. Find out what the other side values most and negotiate from there!
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Always try – Persistence often pays off in negotiation, and everything is better in writing!
Tips For Luxury Home Sellers
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A first impression matters – Professional photography, videography, and minor renovations can significantly increase a home’s perceived value.
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Choose the right listing agent – Look for proven sales history, marketing reach, and local reputation. Agents affiliated with global brands like Christie’s International Real Estate (Emerald Coast) can attract international buyers and open up your Buyer pool. Don’t forget: do you like them? Real estate can be a long process. It is important to pick a representative you can work together with!
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Price strategically – Work with your agent to analyze comparable sales, market trends, and buyer demand. Learn to pivot strategically.
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Leverage off‑market exposure – Consider pre‑listing your home within the agent’s network to create buzz before going live.
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Prepare for negotiations – Experienced agents protect your interests and maximize the final sale price. Make sure they understand your goals before entering into a listing agreement.
The Locals Group Reviews
FAQs
What qualifies as a luxury home in Destin?
Luxury properties in Destin typically start around $500,000 and can exceed $8 million, depending on location, size, and amenities. Homes in gated waterfront communities command the highest prices, with Gulf front options coming in a close second.
How do I choose the right luxury realtor?
Look for agents with proven sales volume, professional designations, marketing reach, and local expertise. Research their reputation in the marketplace and how well they interview with you. Afterall, those same skills will be shown in negotiations on your behalf! Evaluate their testimonials and whether they are affiliated with respected brands like Christie’s.
How much are HOAs for Miramar Beach condos?
Home Owners Association dues, commonly known as HOA Dues, fluctuate each year and are approved by an HOA Board based on the cost to upkeep the complex. Each complex, therefore, has different HOA Dues.
What commission do luxury realtors charge?
Fees vary by agency and market conditions and are fully negotiable for each transaction. Most full‑service luxury brokers charge a percentage of the sales price, negotiated between seller and agent. Given the high stakes, experienced agents often deliver a higher net return through strategic pricing and negotiation regardless of the commission splits.
Which neighborhoods offer the best investment potential?
First, make sure the neighborhoods you like offer short-term rental capabilities. Research recent appreciation rates and HOA regulations before committing. Currently, neighborhoods like Crystal Beach, Frangista Beach, and Destiny offer great investment opportunities.
How long does it take to sell a luxury home?
Average days on market fluctuate with inventory and season. High‑end properties may take longer to sell due to a smaller buyer pool, but professional marketing and correct pricing can shorten the timeline. Currently, according to the Emerald Coast Association of Realtors, the average days on market for a single-family home in Destin above $1M is 93 days.
Experience The Locals Group Difference
Experience luxury real estate with a team that blends global reach with true local roots. The Locals Group offers a refined, relationship-driven approach backed by proven results, insider access, and thoughtful guidance at every step.
From first showing to closing day, we invite you to experience the difference of working with professionals who understand both the market and the lifestyle you’re investing in. We love it here!
What Is Luxury?
Resources
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Seller’s Guide (coming soon!)