Spring's Last Fling

Spring flies by so quickly and this year is no exception. This weekend will be the last one for vacation rentals at the spring rate, therefore our business is greater for the weekend than it has been since the week after Easter. Since we are a family-oriented beach destination our vacation rental seasons are primarily determined by school schedules. This year the local school schedule has been extended an extra week. So even though all county schools held graduations on Monday the balance of students will attend until May 26.

It's really a grand weekend to visit the coast because the weather is warm and sunny which makes the beach even more appealing. The spring rental rates are low and there are two special events planned. The 2nd Annual Orange Beach Red Snapper World Championship ends a month-long tournament on May 22nd. Plus beginning tomorrow (May 20) thru Sunday (May 22) the 2nd Annual Southern Breeze Coastal Wine Tour will be held at various venues. Both of these events have the potential for even greater growth at this wonderful "Spring Fling" time of year.

Once Memorial Day arrives all systems are go for summer peak season rental activity that will last until Labor Day. The coordination between all Meyer Real Estate Departments kicks into full gear. The Property Management operations are joined by Real Estate Sales in heightened activity since more visitors to the area means more buying prospects to accommodate.

Our major building project at the Corporate Headquarters, which will result in a 36,000 square foot office, is still under construction. Everyday now we arrive at the Corporate Office location to dozens of workers both inside and outside the new structure. Living thru the construction (adjacent to the existing building) has been challenging but the rewards will be well worth the inconveniences. We anticipated moving into our new lobby prior to the summer customer arrivals, however it appears the opening will be later in summer than we hoped. The new facilities are so beautiful and functional with a sensitivity to the preservation of the natural surroundings including mature oaks existing on the property. Our new office is already quite the "buzz" of the community and we anticipate setting the pace for a revitalization of the Gulf Shores business district where we're located.

Even though it's hard to imagine spring is nearly over with summer fast approaching, we are all excited about the prime season activities. It is comforting for operations to return to a normal pace following the unusual activities we've experienced following Hurricane Ivan.