Testimonials
"Zach, glad to help you and feel free to use as you see fit. My wife and I have known the Childs’s family for over 25 years and have known Zach since he was a little boy. He was a good kid then and he is a good responsible young man today with a successful track record as a real estate broker. We found a gulf front home in late 2007 that we really wanted to buy but it was a little out our price range. In 2011 we heard it was in foreclosure and called Zach to follow it and advise us when it came on the market. He did just as we asked and gave us periodic updates. In July 2011 he called to say the house would go on the market in the next two weeks. We gave him a number and he ran with the ball all the way through the offers and counters to the closing. We are now the proud owners of the beach house of our dreams thanks to Zach. I recommend him to any potential buyer without reservation."
David (Butch) Mosely
"Zach was extremely responsive to any questions and requests I had during my search, his customer service was outstanding! I also found his experience and knowledge of the local market extremely helpful to me. Zach was truly an asset for me and I would highly recommend him to any of my friends."
Beau
"I recently purchased a townhouse in Mexico Beach and worked with Zach Childs as my realtor. He handled everything including, Financing, insurance, getting information on turning water and power on to having the place sparkling clean when I arrived. I have closed over a month ago and I still call for advice. This was a great experience from start to finish. I would use no one else. He is professional and extremely knowledgeable on real estate in the area and his customer service is excellent.
Thank You Zach!!!"
Doug Judy
Leesburg, Ga.
"Zach Childs has been and continues to be unfailingly helpful and knowledgeable. My wife and decided to buy a home on St Joe Beach at thanksgiving last year. Zach took all the time needed to show us around the entire area, and when we found a home we were interested in, Zach proceeded to save us thousands of dollars on the home during negotiations with the seller. He has been incredibly helpful in providing help and information with everything we needed from hiring local contractors, to finding the best deals on insurance. We signed a contract at Thanksgiving last year, and had closed on the home and moved furniture in by Christmas.
Zach has since also turned out to be a great friend and a great neighbor. He even joined in a rescue operation with our new neighbors to find one of our dogs on a Saturday, who had escaped from our yard while we were gone!
My wife and i are ecstatic with our home on the beach, and none of it would have happened without Zach's tireless efforts and "Can do" attitude. We cannot say enough positive things about Zach and are thinking about buying a second property now in the same area. No points for guessing who we can’t wait work with again?
As a sales manager for a major corporation in the South East, Customer service, communication and trust are everything to me, and Zach exemplifies all these qualities.
Thank you again for all you do for us Zach."
Andy Cave,
Sales manager, Birmingham AL
"Zach Childs is the best by far realtor I have ever dealt with. I have probably bought or sold over 10 places in my life. He went beyond on just selling me a house from 4 insurance quotes to getting the power switch over and much more. He knows Mexico Beach and the surrounded area like the back of his hand. He works in the community harder than anyone I know. He is not just my realtor he is my friend."
Scott Krause- Bluewater Outriggers
"We meet Zach through our son and are appreciative that we did. Zach listens to us and then tells us (particularly me since I am a little hard headed) what we should be doing and he has always been correct in our case. He helped us purchase one vacation home and also to purchase a lot in WindMark Beach where we will be building a new home in the very near future. He presently has our vacation home on the market and we are very pleased with activity at this time.
Should we need a Real Estate professional again in the future, certainly Zach will be the agent of choice for us. "
Larry & Cindy Johnson
"Zach walked us through the entire process of buying our condo. He was very responsive and kept us updated on almost a daily basis. The best part of the experience was that we contracted to close in 30 days and we were right on time."
David and Cheryl Traylor
Mexico Beach, FL
"WHY I CHOSE ZACH CHILDS TO MARKET MY HOUSE IN MEXICO BEACH
Any realtor can list a house but it takes a true professional who is willing to work at least six days a week to understand the local real estate market, know what´s selling and what´s not and the reasons for each, has insight as to how a property needs to be positioned and packaged, and of utmost importance to work with the seller and /or buyer so that they have reasonable expectations especially in this market. Zach, a good friend of mine, is truly this type of professional who sold my house in Mexico Beach for a fair price which enabled me to move on to Orange Beach, Alabama where I have purchased another house. I only wish I could have taken Zach with me to Orange Beach where, because of communication issues, I had to change realtors in mid stream to find what I really wanted there."
Steve Black
CEO- Peachtree Development Company (Retired)
"My husband and I knew we wanted to purchase a vacation home in the Mexico Beach or St. Joe Beach area, but we weren´t very familiar with the area or the market. We just happened to find Zach online and were so pleased with his quick response to our question about one of his properties that we decided to use him as our agent. Zach ended up spending hours, make that days, ok so it was more like months being patient with us, the indecisive buyers. He listened to everything that we wanted and showed us countless houses over several weekends until we finally settled on one (which happened to be the first one he showed us that wasn´t even listed on the market yet!).
Zach was extremely knowledgeable about the area, city ordinances, codes, insurance, etc. Any questions we had, Zach had the answer, or was quick to find out for us! Anything we needed, he was there help us get it, and that includes inspectors, contractors, surveys, insurance, just to name a few. Zach went above and beyond his duties as a realtor and really helped introduce us to the community. And for that, we are grateful. Even after we have closed on our new home, Zach continues to help us get settled in, which is something that not every agent would do.
We are thankful for having the opportunity to work with such a knowledgeable, professional and patient person. We look forward to continuing our new friendship with Zach and so many of the other Mexico Beach and Port St. Joe people that we have had the opportunity to meet and become friends with thanks to Zach! We would highly recommend Zach and 98 Real Estate for any buyers or sellers! We can´t imagine ever using anyone else! Thanks Zach!"
James & Laura Eubank
"Zach truly exceeds expectations. His knowledge of the local area real estate market saved us thousands. A true professional that you can trust. We closed and had furniture delivered all in one weekend. What an awesome experience."
Thank you,
Tony
"I couldn´t be more pleased with the way Zach handled my recent purchase at Mexico Beach. At every stage of the process, he showed excellent knowledge of the business and the upmost professionalism. He was all together a great agent and will be the person I contact for any future real estate transactions."
Michael C. Chastain
Project Manager
Bates Engineers/Contractors, Inc.
"Lisa and I began looking for a gulf coast beach property three years ago. We always had a few factors that prevented us from finding the perfect property at the perfect price. First, as out-of-state buyers our search was often limited to holidays, long weekends, and business trips. Second, although we were familiar w/ the gulf coast, we certainly were not experts when it came to waterfront versus water view; seasonal rental versus long term rental; and the associated tax and insurance benefits and consequences of each. Just as we were going to postpone our search, we came across Zach's blog and decided to reach out. Zach immediately erased all of the factors that previously prevented us from purchasing. He met us on Memorial Day weekend and took the time to show us the community street by street. Over the next month we met several of the small business owners, attended a birthday party for a city councilman, and even experienced a local BBQ contest. Zach has a strong commitment to the community along with a dynamic understanding of the area, the economic climate and a wonderful ability to communicate whether face-to-face or digitally--through Facetime, Skype, text, or e-mail. Six weeks from our initial handshake w/ Zach our family was swimming, fishing and enjoying the sun at our beautiful summer home. Without reservation, we recommend Zach Childs and his 98 Real Estate Group. Said more simply, Zach has the only other key to our house (Here's hoping my mother in-law doesn't read this)."
Rouleau, Nelson D MAJ OSD
"Cape San Blas Houses-
Good working with you Zach.
You did a great job for us!
Thanks for getting both homes sold quickly."
John Peterson
REO Asset Manager
Select Portfolio Servicing
"Zach Childs and 98 Real Estate Group helped me sell 2 pieces of property even in a down market at prices I could live with in Mexico Beach where two other Company's had failed.Alway's received immediate response to questions and closings were a breeze even being out of state. Thank's Zach."
Doug Whitehead,Athens Ga.
"Not knowing any real estate agents in the area, I found Zach through his website and decided to take a chance. Best decision I could have made. Zach knows the area inside and out, actually listens to your needs, works hard to find the property that is best for you and your budget, and goes the extra mile to make sure that all of your questions / concerns are answered. Plus, Zach is a good guy and fun to spend time with. He found a great Tier 1 lot for me on Cape San Blas and I closed in November. I highly recommend Zach, without reservation, to anyone looking to buy a house or lot in the Port St. Joe / Mexico Beach / Cape San Blas area."
Keith Vargo
President
Vargo Consultants, LLC
Atlanta, GA
"Zach, we would like to thank you for the outstanding service that you provided to us. You responded within a few hours after I contacted you and had a list of potential properties within the first day. We did not have a lot of time to come down to look at houses however you made the time to meet with us - even on Thanksgiving weekend!!
The property we bought was not listed locally and you made the effort to show it to us with the forethought that it would be something we would be interested in. We are glad that you did as it fits us perfectly. We are very pleased that you stood by us and had our best interest in hand as we worked through some trying times with the sellers.
You took out the time to educate us on the best lender to use as well as several other insurance agents to ensure we received the best quote.
We really appreciate all the help that you have given to us and that you have introduced us to many of your friends down in Mexico Beach. We look forward to seeing you around for many more years!"
Tom and Sadia Benson
"Zach; THANK YOU! from the Walden family. For years we have wanted to find a vacation home at the beach. After looking at Zach's web site and reading his blog in the early summer we knew Mexico Beach was where we wanted to be. On our visit on Sunday of Labor day weekend Zach was able to show us several properties, some that needed work and some that were move in ready. Later the next week we had found "the one for us".
Zach stayed in touch with us and responded promptly each time we called which was several times. Once we were ready to close, Zach was able to arrange the closing within four days. Zach was very helpful and knowledgeable from recommending contractors and painters and even meeting with them when we were not able to be at the property. Zach's attention to detail made our experience of purchasing a vacation home a pleasure.
Zach is in my opinion the most educated and informed real estate professional in the forgotten coast region. He has guided me through multiple property purchases from Mexico Beach to Carrabelle, all of which I attest to be wise decisions. The most pertinent quality of Zach's work ethics is the fact that he genuinely puts his client's interest ahead of his own. He has on countless occasions advised against my curiosity in making offers on property because he did not feel the value warranted the price, and for that display of honesty he will continue to be my real estate broker as long as I own property here in Florida. Thank you for your help Zach."
Jeff Howell
"Zach; on behalf of the entire Norton family, I just wanted to say "thank you" for all of your help and shared real estate advice. As a family, we have benefited tremendously from the real estate deals you´ve advised us on. Since you arrived in Mexico Beach/Port St. Joe, you´ve become a valued asset and great addition to our community, and to mention, a close personal friend.
Again- thanks, and we look forward to more great opportunities with you in the years to come.
Most Sincerely, Jim Norton - Port St. Joe, Florida"
Jim Norton, J.D.
Senior Vice President
Senior Trust Officer
Vision Bank
"Zach worked diligently to sell our home in a down economy. We could not be happier with the effort he put forth. We would and do recommend him for any real estate needs, whether it be buying, selling, or consultation. There are few realtors with as much local knowledge and information. Zach can be trusted to help you do what is the right thing for you, even if it may cost him a sales commission."
The Spring Family
Owners- The Fuss and Big Fish Construction
Port Saint Joe, FL
"Hey Zach, We would like to thank you for all of your hard work, knowledge of the Mexico Beach and Cape San Blas areas, and especially for your honest answers to every question we asked you. You always explained the pros and cons and let us make our own choices with great help from your complete knowledge of the areas you work. We would highly recommend you to any prospective buyers or sellers of real estate in the Mexico Beach and surrounding areas. On top of all of the above you are a really nice and fun guy to work with."
With highest regards,
Fletcher & Deborah Little
SMITH INVESTMENT PROPERTIES, LLC
LICENCED REAL ESTATE BROKER
1725 MAHAN DRIVE TALLAHASSEE, FL 32308, PH. (850)219-1113
"Zach, I would like to thank you for your hard work in selling our property. As a realtor I know how difficult these market conditions are, and I was extremely impressed in your ability to market our property. It was very enjoyable to work with you as our realtor and we felt confident in your market knowledge as well as your ability to work hard on our behalf. We would like for you to list two other properties that we have in Gulf County, due to the excellent service that you provided our family. Thank you again for all of your help and I will definitely refer you to all of our friends who need a realtor in that area."
Gary Smith Jr
Smith Investment Properties, LLC
850-219-1113
gsmithjr@embarqmail.com
"My name is Ruskin R. Shipp and I am the president of Macon Mortgage, Inc in Macon, Georgia. I have been working with numerous realtors for 15 years. Zach recently handled a personal transaction for me on the sale of my beach house at St Joe Beach. Zach did a fantastic job throughout the entire process. I was happy, the buyer was happy and the whole process was just as smooth as silk. He is by far the most hands-on and experieced realtor I have ever known, and folks when you own a mortgage company, you know quite a few realtors. If your looking for the best, you better call Zach."
Ruskin Shipp
Macon Mortgage, Inc
"Zach was great assistance to Lisa (my wife) and I as we sought purchase of our first home. His efforts were tireless and he never failed to follow through or answer our questions. He showed us home after home and proved exquisite knowledge of the local market. As a developers attorney I come into contact with Realtors every day. Zach is the one I recommend."
Clayton B. Studstill, Esq
"We contacted Zach to help us identify investment property on the coast. He provided us with the information we needed to not only identify potential properties, but evaluate, compare, and decide on the specific property we purchased in only a few days. That saved us considerable time and money. His specific knowledge of the market and surrounding area allows him to continually bring us any opportunities that may arise with our property or other potential deals. We try to stay in touch with Zach for that specific reason and plan to do other deals with him in the months and years to come."
John Hale
Hale & Etheridge Development Group
"When Teresa and I started looking for our dream beach property we contacted Zach Childs. He was instantly likeable, friendly, always courteous, extremely knowledgeable, and most willing to invest the time to help research our interests. We worked with Zach in person, over the internet, and phone. He did not try to sell us on his favorites or push his point of view, but rather helped us think through pros and cons of what we wanted. He showed us properties that were new, old, waterfront, water view, secluded, wooded, rentals, and helped us understand the value and tax consequences of each one. And of course he explained the value of location, location, and location. He showed us everything we wanted and a great deal more; he always did what he said he would do. When we were ready, he worked with us to develop a highly tailored purchase offer that worked for us and the seller. Thanks to Zach, we now own a wonderful gulf front condominium in Mexico Beach, and enjoy our home away from home as often as possible. Zach is a top performing real estate professional with high integrity and a strong commitment to our community. I unequivocally recommend you contact Zach if you are interested in discussing Gulf Coast real estate, or just need information or advice about our community."
Doug Pearson, Major General, USAF (retired)
"Zach has proven to be a very well informed, tuned-in agent for the Mexico Beach area. He send out a very useful report via email to clients and potential clients, whereby he disseminates what has been happening in the market and adds his own editorial of what he expects to happen in the future. Along with these pluses he's also a very nice guy.
Chuck Fuller
Developer
"Zach, we just wanted to say "thanks" again for helping us find the perfect home in Mexico Beach. You helped our dream of moving to the beach come to fruition. We were both nervous about this transition in our lives. Thanks to you, it was a great experience. We were extremely impressed with your knowledge of the local real estate market, your desire to get us the absolute best deal possible, and your ability to 'make things happen' when we needed them to."
Sincerely,
Grant & Holly Terry
"Zach, I would like to thank you for all of your help with our real estate transaction. I was realy empressed with your professionalisn and knowledge during the whole process. Looking forward to working with you again."
George H. Crews
Cape San Blas
"Zach is a hard worker. When I was ready to sell my house, he did it in a timely manner, and kept me posted on all showings of the property, as well some suggestions on how it might sell quicker. I don't have to worry about my property during bad weather, either, Zach gladly checks up on it and lets me know of any damages. He is honest and dependable, and simply the best in Mexico Beach!"
War Eagle!
Nicole Nichols
"Zach Childs is great to work with. He is easy going and fun, very patient and will really work to find exactly what you need and want. Any time we ask for information or help he gets right back to us."
Ell and Elise Willis
"Zach was excellent to work with and available anytime I called. Each question or concern was quickly handled. He even made trips to the attorney's office for me in order to expedite the process. I would recommend him to any prospective buyer or seller."
Rick Ragan
Consumer Lender
People's South Bank
"Zach, Thank you very much for helping me find a great getaway home in Port Saint Joe. I have looked all over Florida and dealt with a lot of realtors, I found you knowledgeable, professional and very responsive. Your patience while I looked and your attention do detail during closing made the purchase a pleasure. I would recommend you to any of my friends."
Chris
"Mexico Beach has been our family's sandy, saltwater slice of heaven for more than 50 years. The white, sugary-sand beach, breathtaking orange and blue sunsets (Go Gators!), and quiet, small-town feel are addictive to anyone looking to leave behind the stresses of everyday life. When the late afternoon breeze picks up and the sea grass sways, all your troubles melt away with the tide... if you imbibe, a cold beer helps, too. So it's no wonder when my husband and I decided to purchase a second home, we quickly settled on Mexico Beach. The trouble however, was that we weren't exactly sure where to begin - Did we want to live on the water or a few blocks off the water? Did we want something small for just the two of us or something friends and family could enjoy as well? Did we want a townhome, a condominium or a house? We drove down a time or two on our own to scout the possibilities, but it was a bit overwhelming.
Upon teaming up with Zach, our questions began answering themselves. Zach listened not only to our 'needs' but also our 'wants' for the new vacation home. When we didn't immediately find a home that met all these needs, Zach kept a close watch on new MLS listings and contacted us the minute something interesting came up. With properties continuously coming on the market, Zach's constant communication and attentiveness made buying our second home a breeze.
After visiting several beautiful properties, we finally found 'the one' in February. However, the home needed a little work and our relationship with Zach didn't end at the closing table. His service after the sale has been impeccable - from recommending painters, carpet cleaners, landscapers and pool services to driving by the house to check on the progress. His easy going personality and ability to go above and beyond for his clients made Zach a great pleasure to work with. If you're looking for a home in the area, call Zach immediately!"
Rusty and Charlotte
