Baldwin County, AL Real Estate, Homes For Sale, School & Area Information

When it comes to protecting your home from termites, expert advice is invaluable. That's why we've teamed up with Ryan Beebe and technical director Chris Kelley from Bebee's Pest Control, seasoned professionals with years of experience in safeguarding homes in Alabama. In this interview, they share their insights on termite bonds, the signs of termite activity, and how to choose the right pest control company to ensure your home remains protected in the challenging Southern climate.

1. How can you spot termites and how to they get started in a house
What signs should I look for to detect termite activity in or around my home, and how often should I have my property inspected?
Chris: Some easy to spot signs of termites in the home are the termites themselves! Some have wings that you may see swarming in the spring and some have white bodies which are known as the “workers”. The best way to keep termites away from your home is controlling the moisture around your home. Whether it’s downspouts that need to be situated away from the structure, a crawlspace that needs to be ventilated, or even property ventilation in your attic. Ryan: Other items that are conducive to termite infestations are wood to ground contact and irrigation that is installed too close to the home.
When it comes to termite activity, early detection is crucial for protecting your home. In Alabama, homeowners should be vigilant for signs such as mud tubes along the foundation, discarded wings near windows or doors, and hollow-sounding wood. Termites are often hard to spot because they work behind the scenes, but these indicators can help you catch them early. Experts recommend that homeowners have their property inspected annually by a professional, especially in the South, where termite activity is more prevalent due to the warm and humid climate.

2. Can you explain the benefits of having a termite bond, and what specific coverage it provides for homeowners in the South?
Ryan: The benefit of having a termite warranty is that it’s a proactive measure to make sure your home is protected properly by a professional. The two types of warranties (also known as bonds) are
Retreatment Only: This is simply the company removing any active termites.
Damage Policy/Repair Bond: The company should be eradicating the termites as well as fixing any damage caused by the infestation
A termite bond is essentially a contract between the homeowner and a pest control company that provides ongoing protection against termite damage. The benefits of having a termite bond in Alabama are significant. It not only covers the cost of regular inspections and treatments but also typically includes repair coverage for any damage caused by termites.. With a termite bond, homeowners can have peace of mind knowing that their investment is protected.

3. What is Formosan?
Chris: Formosan termites are subterranean termites whose colonies can become quite large thus causing more damage. Thankfully, the protection provided by Beebee’s Termite takes care of both eastern subterranean termites as well as Formosan termites.
Formosan termites are known for their large colonies and aggressive behavior. They can cause significant damage to wooden structures, including homes, at a much faster rate than other termites. They are difficult to control due to their ability to establish multiple nests and their high reproductive rates. Formosan termites are particularly problematic in warm, humid climates, where they thrive and can cause extensive property damage.

4. If you’re doing a remodel project, do you recommend a new or different type of bond/warranty?
Ryan: First thing is contacting your current provider and making sure they have the procedures and protocols in place to take on that renovation and additionally that it will not void their existing warranty. Sometimes having another company come out to treat can void your current warranty!
Ryan: “With new construction, we provide soil treatments, wood preservative treatments, as well as a Sentricon always-active program. What we are seeing now with new construction is that it is very hard to get coverage on a home with foam insulation installed so be sure to check with your company to make sure they can cover you.

In Alabama, where the warm, humid climate increases the risk of termite infestations, understanding the importance of termite bonds and how they differ from regular pest control services is essential for homeowners. By being proactive and choosing the right pest control partner, you can protect your home from the costly damage termites can cause. Regular inspections, preventative measures, and a strong termite bond are the best ways to keep your home termite-free in the South.

Summertime offers the perfect opportunity to celebrate with fresh, vibrant dishes. Embrace the season by creating memorable moments with family and friends, enjoying delicious meals that highlight our local produce and the best flavors of summer. Sourcing fresh produce from one of our many farmer's markets or fresh seafood straight from the Gulf of Mexico, these recipes will bring the best of the season to your table. Here are three of our favorite summertime recipes, perfect for enjoying at home or at your next outdoor gathering. Each dish is easy to make, fresh, and bursting with flavor.

Local Caught Grilled Red Snapper
Ingredients:
2 lbs fresh red snapper fillets
1/4 cup olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 lemon (sliced)
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions:
Prepare the marinade: In a small bowl, mix olive oil, minced garlic, parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper. Place red snapper fillets in a large dish. Pour the marinade over the fish, ensuring it is well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Place the marinated red snapper fillets on the grill, skin side down. Grill for 4-5 minutes per side or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Add lemon slices to the grill during the last few minutes of cooking for added flavor.
Serve the grilled red snapper hot with grilled lemon slices and lemon wedges on the side.

This grilled red snapper is a simple yet elegant dish that highlights the freshness of local seafood, perfect for a light and flavorful summer meal.

Refreshing Watermelon Feta Salad
Ingredients:
4 cups watermelon, cubed
1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
3 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp balsamic glaze
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:
In a large bowl, combine watermelon cubes, crumbled feta, sliced red onion, and chopped mint leaves. Drizzle olive oil and balsamic glaze over the salad. Gently toss to combine.Add salt and pepper to taste, adjusting as needed. Let the salad sit in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

This refreshing watermelon feta salad is the perfect blend of sweet and savory, making it an ideal dish to cool down on a hot summer day.

Classic Strawberry Shortcake
Ingredients for the Shortcake:
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 cup sugar
1 tbsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 cup cold butter, cubed
1/2 cup milk
1 egg, beaten

Ingredients for the Topping:
4 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
1/4 cup sugar
1 cup heavy whipping cream
2 tbsp powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:
In a bowl, mix sliced strawberries with 1/4 cup sugar. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes to macerate.
Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add milk and beaten egg, mixing until just combined. Drop spoonfuls of dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown. Let cool.
In a chilled bowl, whip heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
Split the shortcakes in half. Spoon strawberries over the bottom half, add a dollop of whipped cream, and place the top half of the shortcake over the filling. Top with more strawberries and whipped cream.

Classic strawberry shortcake is a timeless summer dessert that highlights the sweetness of fresh strawberries with fluffy shortcake and airy whipped cream.

Our Favorite Markets
To make these dishes even more special, we recommend sourcing your ingredients from these fantastic local markets:
Blalock Seafood and Specialty Market
Known for its high-quality seafood, Blalock offers a wide selection of fresh fish, shrimp, and other seafood delights. Perfect for finding the freshest catch of the day.

Billy's Seafood in Bon Secour
A local favorite, located on the Bon Secour River Billy's Seafood provides fresh seafood straight from the Gulf. Their friendly staff and excellent selection make it a must-visit for seafood lovers.

Coastal Alabama Farmers and Fishermen Market in Foley
This market is a one-stop shop for fresh produce, seafood, and more. Supporting local farmers and fishermen, it offers a variety of seasonal fruits, vegetables, and freshly caught seafood.

Joe Patti's Seafood
A true Pensacola staple since 1932, Joe Patti's Seafood is renowned for its extensive variety of fresh seafood. This market is a seafood lover's paradise with everything you need for a perfect summer dish.

I hope these summertime recipes bring joy and flavor to these long hot days. Whether you're grilling in the backyard, enjoying a refreshing salad, or indulging in a sweet treat, these dishes are sure to create wonderful memories.

2018 is the year for the 33rd Annual Christmas Lighted Boat Parade in Gulf Shores. December 8 the parade will take off from Lulu's headed down the intracoastal waterway toward Cobalt's! You can watch from the water on your own boat or go to several viewing locations. The Wharf in Orange Beach is one of the best places to see all the decorated boats.

Orange Beach, Gulf Shores, Foley, Magnolia Springs, Fairhope and Point Clear are just a few of the much loved towns in Baldwin County. Choices of living a country or beach lifestyle are plentiful in "Lower Alabama" also known as LA. A place full of Southern hospitality and charm! Orange Beach and Gulf Shores have beautiful white sandy beaches. Fairhope offers great shopping and art! Foley has the OWA amusement park and Tanger Outlet Mall. Point Clear's historical Grand Hotel. And for the golfers--there are golf opportunities throughout Baldwin County.

Steelwood Country Club is one of Baldwin County's best kept secrets. This gem is located in North Loxley, AL and boasts an award-winning Jerry Pate designed golf course, 200 acre private lake, and upscale homes surrounded by pristine, unspoiled woodlands. Steelwood Lake offers some of the finest freshwater fishing in Alabama. The lake was drained in the early nineties, reconditioned, and stocked with an abundance of bass and bream making it one of the best managed lakes in the area. Steelwood's expert staff is always ready to help with a family fish fry or a relaxing bonfire after a day on the trails. If golf and fishing aren't your first choice, the inviting swimming pool or well maintained tennis courts are available. Steelwood Country Club aims to please and you don't want to miss this experience!

We visited the Eastern Shore today. After a successful trip to Shoe Station, we stopped by Olive Garden.The food, as always, was great, and the wine was even better. We experienced something new while we were there - each table now has a "viosk". Viosks are similar to a tablet on a stand, and you can order appetizers or desserts, play games, and pay your bill, all from the comfort of your table. Verrrry fancy! Olive Garden is located in the Eastern Shore Centre, and is open Sunday through Thursday, 11:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., and Friday and Saturday from 11:00 a.m. to 11:00 pm. Bon appetite!

It drives my wife crazy, but every time we have heavy rain, I find myself singing 'When The Levee Breaks" by Led Zeppelin. So, here we were, experiencing very heavy rain over the past couple of days and me driving her crazy while we drove around looking at how the area performed.

For those that are considering purchasing a home or condo in the area, I say, what better time to see how your potential purchase is going to perform, then now. Schedule a showing and take a look to ensure the property you are interested in performed well during the heavy rainfall. For home sellers, this is a great time to thoroughly inspect your property and resolve any issues that could have a negative effect on selling your property.

Given the extreme rainfall we had, I would say the area performed overall very well. There were some parts that had washed away roads, but the cities responded very well to closing them of and/or getting them prepared to drive back over.