The relaxed atmosphere, white sands, and emerald waters are just some of the characteristics that convince people to call Destin home. The community is filled with plenty of summer festivals and sports activities (most notably standup paddle boarding). But in no shape or form is Destin limited to these forms, which is why we sat down with one of our associates, Pat Carlyle, and asked her to give us her take on the area and the local real estate market.
1. Destin is known for its sandy beaches & emerald waters. What else does the region have to offer home buyers?
The region has so many opportunities for diverse populations. We are fortunate to have an abundance of state forest land which encourages hiking, birding, horseback riding and bicycling in addition to the activities of the beaches and bay. The local ecology makes it one of the most bio-diverse and rare areas in the United States. The educational system from primary school to college is excellent. The population is varied in age and backgrounds, which creates a vibrant,active community. The natural beauty which surrounds us has attracted artists and musicians from near and far. All of these have blended together to make paradise possible!
2. How did you first get started in the real estate business? What drove you to join the industry?
I spent 25 years designing and delivering executive education programs and strategic planning consultation for corporations world-wide. In 2002, I made a conscious decision to create a life-style change and set my sights on finding the perfect spot to re-locate. I moved to the area in 2002 and chose to use my business background to begin my real estate practice and share this beautiful area with others. Since then, I’ve added significant real estate education and certifications to my tool kit. But I’ve also taken the time to grow my personal education by becoming certified to teach yoga dance, Reiki, and become a facilitator for the Work of Byron Katie.
3. You recently became a Reiki master. Could you explain in your own words what this is?
Reiki is an ancient holistic healing technique that is used by itself or in conjunction with other medical or therapeutic techniques to relieve side effects or promote recovery. The name Reiki is from the Japanese language and means “Rei” higher power, “ki” life force energy. A Reiki session takes about 60-90 minutes and the client remains fully clothed. It is designed to uncover areas of the body where energy is blocked from stress, injury or illness and to direct the “life force energy” to allow the body to flow again and heal naturally. The practitioner follows the energy from head to toe with his/her hands. It can be a hand off process or a hands on process depending on the issues discussed between the client and the practitioner. It treats the whole person–body, emotions, mind and spirit. I’ve experienced for myself and witnessed others enjoy increased relaxation, feelings of peace, security and well-being in addition to promoting healing of body issues. The practitioner follows the energy from head to toe with his/her hands.
4. What motivated you to become a Reiki master?
I believe whole-heartedly in living a balanced life. I came to the beach to practice that because I was a work-a-holic and was committed to changing my lifestyle. Reiki is a holistic practice, so I can weave my coaching and counseling experience, my yoga dance and meditation practices, and my successful treatment of my own health challenges together to offer alternatives to my Reiki clients. Different things work for different people. I find the healing practices I’ve learned help me as much as they help my clients.
5. Has Reiki changed the way you do business in real estate at all?
Buying real estate at the beach should be a stress-free, fun experience. Reiki has encouraged me to practice a balanced, relaxed perspective every day. I understand a real estate transaction, whether a sale or a purchase, is a significant investment, and the culmination of a life-long dream. My job is to create a pathway for that dream to become a reality.
For More Information
If you’d like more information about real estate in the Destin area or about reiki, feel free to contact Pat Carlyle (click here) or search current real estate listings:
