When most people think of Florida, they think of sandy beaches, hot sun, and alligators. But there’s so much more to Florida than what meets the eye. There’s also the Kennedy Space Center, Walt Disney World, and fantastic seafood. Not to mention, the state is home to some of the most beautiful houses in the country.
So, if you’re thinking about relocating and planting your roots in the Sunshine State, you will need a team of reliable home builders in Saint Petersburg, Florida. And here are a few things you need to consider before starting construction.
Why Build Instead of Buy?
There are many reasons to build your own home in Florida instead of buying an existing one. Here are some of them:
Home plans can be customizable
When you build a house, you can control every aspect of the design and construction process to create the exact home you’ve always wanted. If you’re looking for a particular floor plan, layout, or features, you’re sure to find a home builder that will make your vision a reality.
Get a chance to build your dream home
When you buy an existing home, you’re limited to what someone else has already created. If you want a specific type of home or features that aren’t common in the area, you may have to settle for something not quite what you wanted. Building a home from scratch allows you to include all of your must-haves and create the perfect space for your family.
Could be more inexpensive
While most people assume that building a home is more expensive than buying an existing one, that’s not always the case. When you factor in the cost of land, the price of construction, and the value of your time, building a home can be more affordable than buying an existing one – especially if you plan to live in the house for many years.
Average Cost of Building a New Home
Out of all the states in the US, Florida is the 33rd cheapest state to build a home. The average cost of building a new home in Florida is $240,000 to $350,000. The main reason for Florida’s higher than average cost is that buildings in Florida are required to meet stricter requirements for storm resistance.
When building a home in Florida, there are several factors that you need to take into account, such as the cost of land, the cost of construction, and the value of your time. By considering these factors, you can save money in the long run.
What to Consider Before Building
Before you start building your dream home in Florida, there are a few things you need to take into account. Here are some factors that you should consider:
Flooding
Since Florida is a peninsula, it’s more susceptible to hurricanes and other tropical storms. In addition, the state has a high water table, meaning that the ground is already saturated with water. These two factors make flooding a risk when building in Florida. Before buying a property, be sure to find out what flood zone it’s in and that the first floor is at least sea level.
Geotechnical testing
The soil bearing capacity of your property should be measured by a qualified geotechnical firm before construction begins. The borings are relatively shallow (about 20 ft.) but will provide information that determines if you can build on a conventional shallow foundation. If the soil isn’t up to par, the builder may have to put down pilings, which can cost anywhere from $50,000 or more.
Rules with Homeowners Associations
Homeowners associations (HOAs) may impose stricter and more stringent rules than those mandated by your zone. This could include the type of roofing material you can use, the color of your home, the style of your garage door, and more. So, ensure that you review a copy of the HOA guidelines before closing your property to avoid any construction headaches down the road.
Zoning laws and restrictions
The zoning laws are put in place by local municipalities to protect property owners, and they can vary widely from one area to another. For that reason, it’s essential to be familiar with the zoning regulations in the area where you plan to build because they will dictate what type of home you can create and where you can make it.
Building a house in Florida can be a great way to get your dream home, but you need to be aware of the potential risks and costs. By considering all these varying factors, you can make sure that you end up with a home that you love without breaking the bank. H.E. Feldman & Son is a licensed full-service home builder and remodeler specializing in custom homes, home insulation, and total home renovations. If you’re considering building a house in Florida, contact us today for a free consultation.
