Construction By Tom Smith
Over this past year, I have been writing columns in the Paradise News, mainly addressing existing homeowners along the Pinellas beaches. Most of the many calls I get from this article are asking questions on whether or not to raze their existing 1960’s homes and build to all-new Florida Building Code standards. I thought this month I would address questions that I generally get from those northerners trying to make a decision to move to Florida, either part time or full time.
Here’s a sampling of the questions that I receive from our snowbird friends:
What does an average new home cost here? First, the lot prices vary from $175,000 with only water view, to about $450,000-$550,000 for waterfront along our beautiful Intracoastal. Then, new home costs vary depending upon size, number of floors, bathrooms, specifications, etc. GHD Construction Services, Inc. has homes from about $305,000 to $680,000, and more if your budget allows for larger custom homes.
Are the flood insurance expense horror stories that I hear true? Only for the existing older homes that are not built above the FEMA flood plain. New homes do not face these high flood insurance costs that are greatly escalating annually.
Are there even any lots available to build on along the Pinellas beaches? Many! This is the biggest surprise. There are vacant lots in all of the beach communities in Pinellas, and many opportunities to buy a “teardown” home and rebuild. In many cases, these homes already have docks, boatlifts, and pools, an added value.
What are the most requested items offered in a new Florida home today? You might consider coming to our solar home in Madeira Beach to see the many items offered in a new Florida home today. Elevators, custom kitchens and granite counters, porches with great water views, energy efficient items, and impact resistant doors and windows are only a few of the items we offer.
Do I have to find my own architect? No. GHD Construction Services offers “One Stop Shopping” for our customers. Most lots are irregularly shaped, so we work closely with our customers to fit the home to the lot during the design phase. We help in finding the right home at the right size within the price point that a customer wants, and then work either in-house or with various architects in this area. The process is painless!
If I don’t want to pay cash, what mortgages are available? Banks are offering historically low rates today. As a rule of thumb, monthly you’ll pay about $5/$1000 borrowed for a mortgage loan today for a 30-year fixed rate mortgage. Any combination of cash or mortgage can be considered within your desired budget.
How do I begin the process to gather information about building in Pinellas? Give us a call or email us today for more information. No high pressure promised. We are here to answer your questions and help you through the process if you are considering a new Florida home.
Anything new on the horizon? GHD Construction Services, Inc. is now under construction with a second model home with even more bells and whistles for our customers. I’ll write about that home in next month’s Paradise NEWS. Until then, feel free to visit our existing solar model for details.
GHD Construction Services, Inc. has constructed 6,500 homes since 1971, and has a new model home at 239 144th Ave., Madeira Beach. If you have any questions pertaining to new home construction, feel free call at (727) 954-8345 or email me directly at: INFO@ghdcsi.com to request a meeting at our new model.