Often, visitors as well as locals will rent pontoon boats, personal water craft, go fishing or engage in any number of other water activities.

As well, I have quite a few customers who have purchased a vacation home and have decided to also purchase a boat.

Many of my customers are not only first time vacation home owners, but also first time boat owners.

For those of you both visitors and customers who may not be familiar with owning or renting a boat or other watercraft, there are both safety and maintenance issues that should be addressed prior to launching your boat.

Many of these issues should be addressed annually prior to launching and are easily managed with a few simple items.

Here is a short list of some tasks and issues you should address prior to launching your boat…

• Check the engine completely and perform any and all required maintenance. You may want to read your owner’s manual. If you don’t have one, many can be found on the internet and downloaded to your computer.
• If your boat has been sitting dormant for awhile you may need to replace the ethanol gas.   It can clog your fuel lines and your engine.
• Check and charge the battery if necessary
• Check and change the filters as required
• Check the trailer and perform any needed maintenance
• Put air in the trailer tires as needed
• Check and grease wheel bearings as needed
• Always perform a safety check before casting off
• Verify there are enough lifejackets in the boat for each person on boardBefore putting the boat in the water make sure the plug is in the back of the boat
• Do you have a sounding device on the boat such as a horn or whistle

A few things that are often forgotten and/or not thought of …

• Is your insurance paid?
• Is your registration up to date? Remember to carry the registration card with you.
• Do you have Sea Tow insurance?  If not, you may want to thing about getting it: http://www.seatow.com/
  • 5325 North Lagoon Drive,  Panama City Beach, FL 32408 (850) 234-2323

Buying a vacation home is  fun and rewarding, buying a boat to go along with that vacation home is also fun and comes with added responsibility.

It is highly recommended, that if you own or rent a boat you complete a boating safety course provided by the U.S. Coast Guard: http://www.uscgboating.org/safety/boating_safety_courses_.aspx

For a complete list of safety and maintenance issues for your boat, visit:

U.S. Coast Guard: http://www.uscgboating.org/

In addition, you obtain a free Vessel Safety Check (VSC) by visiting the Visual Safety Check Web site: http://www.safetyseal.net/

The Panama City Beach local coast guard
1700 Thomas Dr # 1,
Panama City
(850) 234-2031

Panama City Homes for sale

Owners, put my technology to work for you. If you are interested in selling your home or condo, contact me today (850) 774-6582 for a free no obligation Home value report.

Buyers, when you’re ready to purchase a Panama City home or condo, contact me directly (850) 774-6582 for the latest information and pricing on any of the Panama City homes sale.

Jennifer Mackay
850-774-6582
Panama City Real Estate | Florida

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USA Today agrees and has named Panama City Beach one of the Top 5 Bargain destinations.

While Spring break may not be everyone’s “cup o’ tea”, it only lasts few a few short weeks, the rest of the year is filled with relaxing fun times, warm sunny beach days and plenty of dining and entertainment for the whole family.

Don’t believe me? Come down and see for yourself.

Jennifer Mackay
850-774-6582
Florida Real Estate | Panama City

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Jennifer Mackay’s Profile |

Everyone has offered so many fun and interesting sites, attractions, entertainment venues, restaurants and so much more for visitors and locals in Panama City, Florida.

Keep up the great work every one, and keep those suggestions coming!

Jennifer Mackay
850-774-6582
Florida Real Estate | Panama City

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Since the Panama City real estate market is picking up quite nicely, it seems appropriate and timely to create a guide for vacationers and relocating friends and families as well as locals who may not be aware of many of the area’s attractions.

So, here is my guide on Facebook for everyone: 365 things To Do In Panama City, Florida.

We’re currently up to #14 on our list with the Annual Bill Fish Tournament at Bay Point Marina and Yacht Club!

With your help, I’ll update the list often with lots of fun things to do for the family, singles and everyone visiting Panama City, Florida.

Visit me on Facebook and add your thoughts and places of interest to this extraordinary list of things to do in Panama City, Florida.

Jennifer Mackay’s Profile |

Jennifer Mackay
850-774-6582
Florida Real Estate | Panama City

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The Yard Sales will be held at the Keller Williams office located at 2110 W. 23rd Street, Panama City Florida on October 31st and November 14th.

Why not come by, view and purchase the items for sale and say hello?

Jennifer Mackay
850-774-6582
Florida Real Estate | Panama City

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Often, besides being asked about the real estate market their questions focus on what there is to do, where to go and of course where to eat among other things.

So, for those looking to come to Panama City, Florida here are a few tips, places of interest as well what I’ve discovered since moving from Los Angeles, California…

Let’s talk weather, month to month and things to do…

January and February are the coolest months.  Temperatures average around 50′s-mid to upper 60′s in the day and can drop to the 30′s in the evenings.

When planning a trip during these months, pack some warm clothes.  A few things to do during these months include: Ripley’s believe it or not, you can go boat, beach or pier fishing, swimming (yes you can go swimming here in the winter).

It may be cold to some, but it’s really not that bad!.  Having lived so long in California I find the water temperature during the winter months actually not  uncomfortable.  Expect to see water temperatures in the gulf in the high 50′s to mid 60′s during these months.  I know… To some this is cool or even cold but to me it’s refreshing.

If you’re a golfer, there’s plenty of golfing at one of the many golf courses around Panama City, Florida.

Community theatre events run all year long so no matter when you visit there should be a show to attend.  Also, check out our Roller Derby if that interests you, it’s fun for the whole family.

March, April and May are my favorite months here.  The temperatures are mild to warm and not nearly as humid as the summer months.

During this time of the year, the area reminds me greatly of where I grew up in Monmouth County, New Jersey.  The trees are beginning to blossom, the grass is getting green again and you can walk around the beach in shorts and have lots of fun at the beach.

Expect to see the Gulf of Mexico water temperatures between the mid 60′s and high 70′s during these months.  For those that find January and February water temperatures too cold, these months are very comfortable for swimming, SCUBA diving and of course more fishing.  Jessie and I have not been diving since moving to Panama City, Florida and we miss it terribly.  Maybe we’ll get wet this year.

Other things to do during these months include: Shell Island tours or boat rentals, or how about a river boat dinner cruise on the bay?

June, July and August are undoubtedly the hottest, most humid months of the year.  This year we had a relatively mild June which made me very happy.

If you’re planning on coming during those months, be prepared to spend a lot of time in shorts, sun bathe and swim at the beach, cool off in the Panama City Mall (Air conditioning!) or visit a water park such as Shipwreck Island.

Of course swimming, SCUBA diving, fishing, sunbathing at the beach are all enjoyable during this time of the year.  But don’t forget about the Panama City Zoo, always fun for the kids and grown ups alike.

September and October we tend to see the most rain and temperatures begin to cool slightly averaging in the mid to high 50′s and mid to high 60′s.

Interestingly, the Gulf of Mexico tends to have the warmest temperatures in September averaging in the low 80′s.  It’s almost like bath water.

For me, this time of year is my second favorite.  The cooling of the night air and day temperatures are great for walking on the beach, going to the Park, Canoeing on Econfina Creek and camping.

This is also the time of year for the Thunder Beach Autumn Rally, Octoberfest and the Panama City Seafood, Wine and Music Festival.

November and December the temperatures can get quite chilly so bring a jacket if you are visiting during this time.

Water temperatures are still temperate in my opinion, averaging around the mid to high 60′s.   During November, the Ironman Triathlon and the St. Andrews Seafood festival are usually scheduled for the middle of the month.

In the beginning of December the wonderfully, colorful Parade of Boats is a terrific event for the whole family.

So there you have it, 20 things you should know about coming or moving to Panama City, Florida

1. January-February – The coolest months
2. Community Theatre is alive and well
3. We have Roller Derby
4. March through May are mild weather months
5. Dinner Cruises and water sports are abundant
6. You can cool down in the summer at the Mall or at a water park
7. There is a wonderful Zoo for the whole family
8. September tends to have the warmest Gulf of Mexico water temperature
9. You can canoe at the Econfina creek or camp at one of the great state parks
10. If you have a motorcycle, you can cruise during Thunder Beach
11. You can enjoy one of the many sea food festivals occurring through out the year
12. We even have an Octoberfest!
13. You can cheer on the athletes at the Triathlon
14. Watch or enter the Parade of Boats
15. You can swim all year long (and not have to join the Polar Bear Club)
16. SCUBA diving occurs most of the year
17. Fishing is a favorite past time either from the beach, pier or boat
18. The Ripley’s museum is fun for everyone
19. You can rent a boat or take a tour of Shell Island
20. Jennifer knows there’s more to life than real estate

If you visit any of these wonderful events or businesses, tell them Jennifer sent you and be sure to let me know how you enjoyed them.

There is a reason I moved to Panama City, Florida and I have to say… It’s Paradise!

Jennifer Mackay
850-774-6582
Florida Real Estate | Panama City

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• De Lions of Jah – Raggae – June 4th
• Eric Lindell – Blues/Rock – June 11th
• Rollin in the Hay – New Grass – June 18th
• Cyril Neville (of the Neville Brothers) – R&B/Rock – June 25th
• The Lee Griffin Band – R&B/Rock – July 2nd
• PBS – New Orleans Fund – July 9th
• The Legendary JC’s – Soul/R&B – July 16th
• King Cotton Blues Band – Blues – July 23rd
• The Donnie Sundal Project – Variety – July 30th
• Beachmice – Eclectic Acoustic – August 6th
• Heat and the Zydeco Gents – Zydeco – August 13th

Also at Pier Park, the 4th of July celebration will feature music from artists which include:

• The Pistols
• The Springs
• And headliner Mark Chestnut

The 4th of July festivities are currently scheduled as:

• The Springs: 2:00 pm
• Veteran’s Memorial Rededication 4:00 pm
• The Pistols: 5:30 pm
• Mark Chestnut: 7:30 pm
• Fireworks show 9:00 pm

In addition, the days activities include contests such as Patriotic Golf Cart Decorating,  Sidewalk Chalk, and a Patriotic Pet Parade as well as sun, fun, food and lots of other family activities for everyone.

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Wouldn’t you know it that the Panama City Beach Tourist Development Council (TDC) held a meeting yesterday and released a preview for their new advertising campaign.

In my opinion, It’s a step in the right direction in re-branding our area as a fun, family oriented destination for everyone.

Now doesn’t that look like a wonderful place to take your next vacation?  Visit the new Panama City Beach tourism website for lots of fun ideas and things to do

On your next vacation to Panama City Beach, contact me (850) 774-6582 about purchasing your vacation get away in Panama City Beach, Florida.

It has long been a favorite of students for spring break. However, the area has plenty to offer visitors of all ages, including the emerald waters of the Gulf of Mexico lapping 27 miles of white-sand beaches.

Being in real estate and having the most prolific website in Panama City and Panama City Beach Florida, I am often asked by customers if this is all I do?  Depending on the time of year and season you visit, there are a world of fun and exciting activities to enjoy.

Well, selling real estate is not the only thing that entertains me and here is a list of just 35 things I like to do in the Panama City, Panama City Beach Florida area:

1. Relax on the white sand beaches of the Gulf of Mexico – The waters are so clear you could see schools of little fish swimming around.
2. Go to the Drag races at Breakaway Drag strip – Not many are aware we have drag racing!.
3. Visit the Ripley’s believe it or not’ museum – Collections of oddities from all over the world.
4. Visit ZooWorld – Zoo World has some really great animals.
5. Go fishing either salt or fresh water – There are many charter companies offering various outings.
6. Take a dinner cruise – There are several such as the Betsy Ann River boat.
7. Kayak or Canoe on Econfina Creek – Always a fun family outing.
8. Visit the Gulf World Marine Park – Exhibits such as tropical birds, alligators, penguins and more.
9. Shop at Pier Park plaza and/or the Panama City Mall or other local gift or souvenir shops.
10. Take a ferry tour to Shell Island – The ferry drops you off at Shell Island, fun for everyone.
11. Play golf – There are many golf courses for all levels of experience.
12. Visit the Museum of Man in the sea – Discover the history of Diving from the 1500′s to modern day.
13. Visit St. Andrews Park – At St. Andrew’s you can imagine what the area looked like before the high-rise condos, hotels, and clubs took over or go hiking and bird watching or picnicking.
14. Spend time at the Water park – Perfect for the kids.
15. Take a Helicopter tour – Great way to see Panama City Beach from a different perspective.
16. Go to the movies – Any one remember date night?
17. Go to the dog races at Ebro Greyhound Park – Fast and furious, a wonderful evening for adults.
18. Go dancing at Club La Vela – Not just for the young.
19. Go Parasailing – Afraid of heights?  It’s still an experience to remember.
20. Ride Jet skis – Zip along the bay or gulf.
21. Rent a boat for the day – Pontoons, sailing and motor boat rentals by the hour or day.
22. Go scuba diving – Several shipwrecks and artificial reefs are in the immediate vicinity.
23. Take bicycle tour – Rent a bike and just tour any of the several state parks in the area.
24. Give yourself a day at the spa – What could be more self indulging?
25. Swim with the dolphins – One of my all time favorites!
26. Take a tour on a scooter – Several rental sites along the beach.
27. Go camping – There are several parks that offer camping facilities.
28. Visit Falling Waters state park – Home to Falling Waters Sink, the state’s highest waterfall.
29. Walk in Florida Caverns State Park – Tours run every hour from 9:30 am to 4:30 pm Thursday through Monday closed on Tuesday and Wednesdays.
30. Sail the gulf on a catamaran – Good for private charters, corporate outings, weddings, receptions, birthday parties, anniversary celebrations.
31. Visit the Panhandle Pioneer Settlement – A living history museum located in Blountstown, FL.
32. Visit old downtown and art galleries – A day of casual walking, dining and community spirit.
33. Take a winery tour – Yes, we do have a winery.
34. Attend a concert in the Park – There are several events on going through out the year.
35. Have lunch or dinner on the beach – Put your toes in the sand and feast.

There are many more activities available in Panama City, Panama City Beach and the surrounding area which are only limited by your imagination, budget and time.

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Here are just a few events scheduled for November:

• Emerald Coast Cruizin’ – Mon. – Sun., Nov. 3 – 9
  Location: Frank Brown Park, 16200 Panama City Beach Parkway – Call 1-888-299-7892 for more information
• Holly Fair – Fri. – Sun., Nov. 7 – 9
  Location: Boardwalk Beach Resort & Conference Center, 9450 Thomas Dr. – Call 850-785-7870 for more information
• Taste of THE Beach: International Wine & Food Experience – Nov. 7
  Location: Pier Park, 600 Pier Park Dr. – - Call 850-267-0683 for more information
• IFA Redfish Tour Championships – Fri. – Sat., Nov. 7 – 8
  Location: RiverCamps on Crooked Creek, 8642 Preservation Dr. – Call 478-836-4266 for more information
• USFA Girls Fastpitch Fall World Series & NSA Native American World Series – Nov. 8 – 9
  Location: Frank Brown Park, 16200 Panama City Beach Parkway – Call 850-233-5040 for more information

Check back often as there are many more events to come…