Building on a Waterfront Lot

Building a waterfront home in the Florida Panhandle can be a dream come true for many buyers. However, there are several important considerations that buyers should keep in mind before embarking on such a project. If you are interested in building a custom home on a waterfront lot in Florida, consider the following.

Foundation and Slope of the Lot
The foundation is one of the most important factors to consider when building a waterfront home in the Florida Panhandle. The slope of the lot is a critical factor to consider when choosing the type of foundation for the home. If the lot is sloped, it may require a raised foundation or a pile foundation to provide stability. A raised foundation, such as with a stemwall, can help protect against flooding and a piling foundation can also provide additional storage space under the home.

Impact Windows
Florida is impacted by severe weather, including tropical storms and hurricanes, so it is essential to ensure that the home is protected from the strong winds and heavy rains that come with these weather events. One way to protect the home is to install impact windows. Impact windows are designed to withstand the force of debris that may be carried by strong winds during a storm. These windows are made of a special type of glass that makes them more durable than traditional windows.

Protection from Flooding
Another important consideration when building a waterfront home is the height of the home. Flooding is a common issue in many waterfront properties, so it is essential to build the home high enough to protect it from floodwaters. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has established guidelines for building homes in flood-prone areas. These guidelines specify the minimum height that the home must be built to in order to protect it from flooding.

Other Factors to Consider
In addition to the above factors, there are several other things to consider when building a luxury waterfront home in the Florida Panhandle. For example, it is important to choose materials that are resistant to saltwater and other corrosive elements. The home should also be designed to take advantage of the natural light and beautiful views of the waterfront.

Perhaps most importantly, you should with a reputable builder who has experience building waterfront homes in the Florida Panhandle. A trusted and experienced waterfront builder will take the necessary precautions to ensure that the newly constructed home is safe and secure. By considering factors such as the foundation, impact windows, flooding regulations and more, custom home buyers can build a beautiful and functional waterfront home that they can enjoy for years to come.

To begin your custom homebuilding journey in the Panama City area, call 850-265-6047 or visit our model home.