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Building a home in the Florida Keys

By Nira Tocco

Real Estate Agent with Coldwell Banker Schmitt Real Estate Company

November 07, 2007 02:02 AM

On my first trip to the Keys from the "mainland" of Florida, I was overwhelmed by the brilliance and wonder of Mother Nature. I flew in to Key West several times and was unaware that the Lower Keys (Sugarloaf Key, Big Pine Key, Ramrod Key and Summerland Key just to name a few) even existed! On this ride, I saw what I thought was the promise of my new home as there was a lot of vacant land in the Keys - which I thought was just waiting to be buit on. NOT SO! ROGO which is the Rate Of Growth Ordinance was implimented to keep from over population. Now as a full time Realtor and resident, I make it my business to keep abreast of the building rules and regulations in Paradise. More to come at a later date regarding the FEMA list. Please call on me if I can you find your Island Retreat.

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Bill Gillhespy

16 Sunview Blvd - Fort Myers Beach, FL

Fort Myers Beach Realtor, Fort Myers Beach Agent - Homes & Condos

Hi Nira, Haven't had a chance to get to the keys yet. Everyone says thet are so nice. The available land issue is a real concern. Good selling to you.

Nov 07, 2007 02:13 AM

Anonymous

Have you noticed building rules to be the same across the country? Whom did you use as a contractor to build your dream home? We are thinking about moving to the Florida Keys. 438

Mar 28, 2008 01:16 PM

I don't know all that much about what is going on in other parts of the country but here in the Keys we have a lot of environmental concerns which which weigh heavily on the ability to build on vacant land. It's the main reason old mobile homes hold their value (not for the home itself but because it can be replaced much easier than it would be to build on a vacant lot). If you are thinking about buying vacant land in the Keys you should ALWAYS visit the Building Department first with the parcel description in hand before taking the next step in making the purchase. I have a couple of lots for sale right now in different stages of the building process and I would never want to discourage anyone away from here. If you are aware of all the potential pitfalls and it feels like something that fits your overall plan, then have at it. This is an awesome place to live. Check out Sweetwater Homes located on Big Pine Key. They they been in business for many years and do a terrific job with modular homes. Good luck with your plans and let me know if I can be of any assistance.

Mar 29, 2008 11:29 AM

I checked out the Homes. Good suggestion. Do you act as the realator for the property? Might want some rennovation done any contractors you can refer us to? 438

Mar 31, 2008 12:54 PM

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