According to National Association of Home Builders/Wells Fargo Housing Opportunity Index (HOI) data released today, nationwide housing affordability during the first quarter of 2011 rose to its highest level in the more than 20 years it has been measured. With interest rates remaining at historically low levels, today’s report indicates that homeownership is within reach of more households than it has been for more than two decades,” said Bob Nielsen, chairman of the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB).

Boating Magazine has just listed their top 10 places to live and boat, and it’s no surprise that Destin made the list! Boaters here enjoy an active East pass into the Gulf, one of America’s most beautiful harbors, and a gorgeous bay and intracoastal waterway. Destin boaters are also familiar with Crab Island, a large underwater island located just off the Destin bridge. In the summer hundreds of boats gather at Crab Island for a day of snorkeling, partying, and enjoying the sun.

Compared to the same period last year, Florida’s existing home and condo sales have risen in the first quarter of 2011. Existing home sales increased 13% and existing condo sales are up 29% compared to the year ago sales figures. Our market is coming back in a big way!

The website Trip Advisor has just released it’s top 25 U.S. Destinations and Destin, FL made the list! The “extremely soft sand” and “beautiful, clear green water” were noted in their article. Other cities on the list included New York City, San Francisco, Honolulu, Chicago, Boston, and Washington, DC.