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At JSC Contracting, Inc., a family-owned marine and home construction company in Central Florida since acquiring Labagh Marine in 2018, we understand that choosing the right building lot is a critical first step in creating your dream home or boathouse. Selecting the perfect lot requires balancing practical considerations, lifestyle preferences, and long-term value, especially for waterfront properties. Here’s our expert guide on how to choose a building lot:
Define Your Needs and Goals: Start by clarifying your priorities. Are you building a primary residence, vacation home, or boathouse? Consider the size of the home, desired features (e.g., dock access for boating), and proximity to amenities like schools, shopping, or marinas. For waterfront lots, think about water access, views, and activities like fishing or boating that align with Central Florida’s vibrant outdoor lifestyle.
Evaluate Location and Accessibility: Choose a lot in a location that suits your lifestyle. Check the distance to essential services, work, or recreational areas. For waterfront properties, ensure the lot has direct water access or is near a public boat ramp. Verify road access and infrastructure like utilities (water, electricity, sewer) to avoid costly extensions. In flood-prone areas like Central Florida, confirm the lot’s elevation and flood zone status to assess insurance and construction requirements.
Assess the Lot’s Physical Characteristics: Examine the lot’s topography, soil quality, and drainage. Flat, stable lots are easier and less expensive to build on, while sloped or rocky terrain may require costly grading or foundation work. For waterfront lots, check shoreline stability and whether seawalls or riprap are needed. Soil tests are crucial to ensure the ground can support your home or boathouse without settling issues. At JSC, we can guide you through these assessments to ensure compatibility with your build.
Check Zoning and Regulations: Research local zoning laws, building codes, and homeowners’ association (HOA) rules. These dictate what you can build, including home size, height, or boathouse specifications. For waterfront lots, verify restrictions on dock size, boat lifts, or shoreline modifications. Our team at JSC Contracting, Inc. is experienced in navigating Central Florida’s permitting process, ensuring your lot complies with all regulations.
Consider Environmental Factors: Evaluate the lot’s exposure to sun, wind, and weather, especially in Florida’s climate. South-facing lots maximize natural light, reducing energy costs, while tree cover can provide shade but may complicate construction. For waterfront lots, assess water depth for boating and potential erosion risks. We recommend eco-friendly considerations, like preserving native vegetation, to align with sustainable building trends.
Investigate Utilities and Infrastructure: Confirm the availability and cost of connecting to utilities like water, electricity, gas, and internet. Rural lots may require wells, septic systems, or solar solutions, which add to costs. For boathouses, ensure power access for lifts or lighting. JSC can help estimate these expenses to keep your project within budget.
Evaluate Future Value and Growth: Research the area’s development trends to ensure your lot retains or increases in value. Proximity to growing communities or waterfronts often boosts property value in Central Florida. However, avoid lots near potential nuisances like industrial zones or high-traffic areas that could affect livability or resale.
Work with Professionals: Partner with experienced contractors like JSC Contracting, Inc. to evaluate the lot’s suitability. We can conduct site visits, review surveys, and advise on construction feasibility, especially for waterfront builds requiring docks, seawalls, or boat lifts. Our expertise ensures your lot supports your vision, whether it’s a sustainable home or a functional boathouse.
Choosing the right lot sets the foundation for a successful build. At JSC Contracting, Inc., we’re here to guide you through every step, from lot selection to completion. Contact us at 352-687-2030 Or www.jscfla.com for a free consultation, and let’s find the perfect lot to bring your Central Florida dream home or boathouse to life!