Sustainable Building Blog of Southern Charm Building & Construction

Creating the Perfect Floor Plan For Your New Home

sjrbradley@yahoo.com (Julia Bradley) — Thu, 28 Sep 2023 19:52:53 GMT

Designing the perfect floor plan for your new house is a highly personal and creative process that depends on your specific needs, preferences, and the constraints of your property. It is a crucial step in the construction process because a well-thought-out floor plan can ensure your home’s functionality fits your lifestyle. If you are preparing to build a home, take time to develop a floor plan that works for you and your family. Not sure where to start? Consider these important points to help get you started designing your dream home!

Define Your Needs and Goals

Begin by making a list of your priorities and requirements based on how you plan to use your new home. Ask yourself these questions:

How many bedrooms and bathrooms are needed?
Are there specific spaces you need, such as a home office, gym, or craft room?
Are you a cook that would enjoy a large gourmet kitchen?
Or perhaps you enjoy entertaining and would like to have an open concept living area?

Think about your lifestyle and how you want your home to support it. If you are looking for inspiration, here are some popular home floor plan trends that we have observed in recent years:

Multi-Generational Living : Multi-generational floor plans accommodate extended families, allowing different generations to live together comfortably. These may include separate living areas, additional bedrooms, or even attached "casitas" for grandparents or adult children.
Outdoor Living Spaces : Floor plans often include outdoor living areas, such as covered patios, decks, or screened-in porches, that seamlessly blend with interior spaces. These spaces are great for entertaining and relaxation.
Outdoor Kitchens : Outdoor living spaces are extended with the inclusion of outdoor kitchens, complete with grills, sinks, and countertops for cooking and entertaining outdoors.
Main-Level Primary Suites : Homeowners are increasingly looking for main-level primary bedroom suites to provide convenience and accessibility. This is especially popular among older homeowners who want to age in place.
Open Concept Layouts : Open floor plans that combine the kitchen, dining, and living areas into one large, cohesive space continue to be popular. This design promotes a sense of spaciousness, natural light flow, and social interaction.
Home Office Spaces : With the rise of remote work and telecommuting, dedicated home office spaces or flexible work nooks have become essential in many floor plans. These areas are designed to provide a comfortable and productive workspace.
Flexible Spaces : Versatile rooms that can serve multiple purposes are in demand. These spaces can be used as guest rooms, playrooms, exercise rooms, or even converted into home theaters as needed.
Mudrooms and Drop Zones : Mudrooms or designated drop zones near the entryway are becoming more common, providing organized storage for shoes, coats, bags, and other everyday items.
Kitchen Islands : Large kitchen islands are a focal point in many floor plans, serving as both a functional workspace and a gathering spot for family and guests. They often incorporate additional storage and seating.
Smart Home Integration : Modern floor plans often include technology hubs or smart home integration features, such as built-in charging stations, home automation systems, and energy-efficient appliances.
Sustainable Design : Eco-friendly design elements like energy-efficient windows, solar panels, and sustainable building materials are increasingly incorporated into floor plans as homeowners become more environmentally conscious.
Spa-like Bathrooms : Primary bathrooms are being designed with spa-like features, such as luxurious showers, soaking tubs, and high-end fixtures to create a relaxing retreat.

It's important to note that design trends can evolve over time. To stay current, consider consulting with a local architect, builder, or interior designer who can provide insights into the latest trends specific to your area and preferences.

Consider Flow and Functionality

Incorporating flow and functionality into your floor plan is essential for creating a comfortable and efficient living space. Open floor plans are popular because they create a sense of flow and spaciousness. Consider removing unnecessary walls between the kitchen, dining, and living areas to create a more open and connected space. However, be mindful of maintaining some separation for functional purposes and privacy.

Another way to add flow to any home is to ensure there are clear and unobstructed pathways throughout your home. Avoid placing furniture or other items in ways that block natural traffic flow. This will make it easier to move around and prevent clutter. It's also essential to define different zones by using furniture, area rugs, or subtle changes in flooring to distinguish between the kitchen, dining, and living areas. This helps maintain functionality and organization within the open layout.

Before finalizing your floor plan, use furniture templates or arrange your existing furniture in the space to visualize how it will flow and function. This can help you identify any potential issues and make adjustments as needed. Remember that the ideal floor plan will vary depending on your unique requirements and personal style. Take your time to plan and design a space that suits your lifestyle and preferences while ensuring it's functional and flows seamlessly.

Lighting and Views

Natural light in a house is important for several reasons, both practical and psychological. Exposure to natural light has been linked to improved mental health, mood, and overall well-being. Studies have shown that people tend to be more productive in well-lit spaces with natural light. This is especially important in home offices or workspaces. It can help reduce stress and anxiety and promote a sense of happiness and calm. It can also enhance the aesthetics of a space. It can make colors appear more vibrant and bring out the beauty of interior design elements.

If you are designing a house around a great view, a floor plan that enhances your living space and connects with the natural surroundings is essential. Begin by thoroughly assessing the site to understand the best vantage points for the view. Consider factors such as the direction of the view, natural features, and potential obstructions and then orient the house to take full advantage of the view. Position the main living areas, such as the living room, dining room, and master bedroom, in a way that provides the best sightlines to the view. Design the layout to include large windows, sliding glass doors, or even floor-to-ceiling windows that frame the view. These should be strategically placed to create a seamless connection between the interior and the outdoor landscape.

Remember that designing a home around a great view is a unique opportunity to create a space that harmonizes with its surroundings and provides a truly special living experience. Be sure to prioritize your personal preferences and needs while also considering the practical aspects of the design.

Future Needs

Designing a home for future needs involves careful planning and consideration of potential changes in your lifestyle, family size, and technology. Incorporate universal design principles to ensure that your home is accessible and adaptable for people of all ages and abilities. This includes features like wider doorways, lever-style door handles, and barrier-free showers. Plan for aging in place by incorporating features such as grab bars in bathrooms, non-slip flooring, and easy-to-reach storage.

Consider designing rooms with flexible layouts that can easily adapt to different functions over time. For example, a home office could become a guest bedroom, and a formal dining room could serve as a playroom. Design your home to be technology-ready by including wiring and infrastructure for smart home systems. This can make it easier to incorporate new technology as it evolves.

When To Consult a Professional

Ultimately, designing your floor plan requires a balance between your current lifestyle and potential future changes. Prioritize adaptability, sustainability, and accessibility to create a home that can comfortably and efficiently accommodate your evolving needs over the years. Architects, builders, and other professionals experienced in designing homes can provide valuable insights and recommendations based on your specific circumstances, and are a great resource to you. Consult with an expert early on in the design phase to ensure your plans meet the needs of your family.

Getting Started With Your Custom Home Build

sjrbradley@yahoo.com (Julia Bradley) — Thu, 18 May 2023 15:18:45 GMT

If you’re planning to build a custom house, you might be thinking about a wide variety of things like deciding on the perfect floorplan, the budget, selecting the right finishes. The process can be overwhelming. That’s why it’s important to gather as much information as possible before you start building so that you know what to expect and can feel fully prepared for your build.

Whether you have been planning to build your own custom home for a while, or you are just starting to think about it, this article starts at the very beginning of the process and helps you prepare to build your home.

Make a Budget

Setting a budget for a new house is an important step in the home-buying process and the same holds true for building a home. And it's a great time to assess your financial situation. Determine your current income, savings, and any other financial obligations you have. This will give you a clear picture of your overall financial health and will help you determine what you can afford. Establishing a budget also includes:

Calculating your down payment : Decide on the amount you can afford to put down as a down payment. It is generally recommended to put down at least 20% of the home's purchase price to avoid private mortgage insurance (PMI), although there are programs available with lower down payment options.
Determining your debt-to-income ratio : Lenders typically use the debt-to-income (DTI) ratio to assess your ability to manage monthly mortgage payments. Your DTI is calculated by dividing your total monthly debt payments (including the projected mortgage payment, utilities, transportation costs, groceries, insurance, and any other recurring payments) by your gross monthly income. A lower DTI ratio is generally preferred by lenders.
Estimating housing costs : Use online mortgage calculators to estimate your potential monthly mortgage payment based on different home prices, interest rates, and loan terms. Consider additional costs such as property taxes, homeowners association fees, and home insurance. And beyond the mortgage, there are other expenses associated with homeownership. These may include maintenance and repairs, property upgrades, and potential increases in utility costs. Factor in these expenses when setting your budget.
Getting pre-approved for a mortgage : Once you have a general idea of your budget, it's recommended to get pre-approved for a mortgage. This process involves providing your financial information to a lender who will assess your eligibility and give you an idea of the loan amount you qualify for.

Remember, setting a budget is crucial to ensure you can comfortably afford your new home without straining your finances. Be realistic and consider your long-term financial goals.

Determine Your Timeframe

Determining a timeframe to build a home can vary depending on several factors, including the complexity of the project, the size of the home, the availability of labor and materials, and any unforeseen circumstances that may arise during the construction process. Your builder can help to guide you through understanding the complexities and has invaluable knowledge of the construction industry in your area. Here are some key considerations to help you estimate a timeframe:

Size and complexity of the home : Larger and more complex homes tend to take longer to build. The number of rooms, levels, and special features (such as custom designs or intricate finishes) can impact construction time.
Construction method : The construction method you choose can affect the timeline. Traditional stick-built homes usually take longer compared to modular or prefab homes, which are often manufactured off-site and assembled more quickly.
Permitting and approvals : The time required to obtain permits and approvals from local authorities can vary depending on your location. It's important to research the specific requirements in your area and consider the potential timeline for these processes.
Weather conditions : Inclement weather can significantly impact construction schedules, especially if there are frequent rainstorms, snowfall, or extreme temperatures. Plan for potential weather delays and work with your builder to adjust the schedule accordingly.
Availability of labor and materials : The availability of skilled labor and construction materials can affect the construction timeframe. If there is a shortage of labor or delays in material deliveries, it may extend the overall completion time.
Builder experience and workload : The experience and workload of your chosen builder can influence the timeframe. Established builders with good track records may have better systems in place and be able to complete projects more efficiently.
Project management and coordination : Effective project management and coordination between the builder, subcontractors, and suppliers are crucial for keeping the construction process on schedule. Clear communication and a well-defined construction plan can help avoid delays.
Unforeseen circumstances : It's important to anticipate unexpected challenges or delays that may arise during construction, such as site issues, contractor or supplier delays, or design changes. These unforeseen circumstances can impact the overall timeline.

While it's challenging to provide an exact timeframe without knowing the specifics of your project, a custom-built home can typically take anywhere from several months to over a year to complete. Working closely with your builder and regularly communicating about progress and any potential delays can help you establish a more accurate timeline for your specific home construction project.

Find the Property for Your Custom Home

Finding the right property for a custom-built home requires careful consideration and research. Here are some steps to help you in your search:

Determine your requirements : Before starting your search, clarify your requirements and preferences for the property. Consider factors such as location, size of the lot, neighborhood, proximity to amenities, views, and any specific features or restrictions you desire.
Set a budget : Establish a budget for the land purchase. This will help you narrow down your options and focus on properties that align with your financial capacity.
Research : Utilize real estate websites, property listing platforms, and online databases to search for available land in your desired location. Specify your search criteria, such as location, size, and any other relevant features.
Work with a real estate agen t: Engage the services of a local real estate agent who specializes in land sales or custom-built homes. They can provide you with valuable insights, access to exclusive listings, and assist you throughout the buying process.
Network within the community : Reach out to local builders, architects, and professionals involved in the construction industry. They often have knowledge of available land or can refer you to potential sellers or landowners.
Drive or walk around your desired area : Take time to explore the neighborhoods or areas where you would like to build your custom home. Look for "For Sale" signs, vacant lots, or properties that might not be actively marketed.
Consider contacting developers : If there are new developments or subdivisions in progress in your desired area, reach out to the developers to inquire about available lots or upcoming releases.
V erify zoning and regulations : Before finalizing any purchase, ensure that the land you're considering is zoned for residential construction and that there are no restrictions or regulations that would impede your plans for a custom-built home.
Engage professionals for due diligence : Once you identify a potential property, involve professionals such as land surveyors, soil engineers, and environmental consultants to assess the land's suitability for construction and identify any potential issues or concerns.

Remember to conduct thorough due diligence and seek professional advice throughout the process to ensure you make an informed decision when selecting a property for your custom-built home.

Building a custom home can be an exciting and rewarding experience, but it also requires careful planning, decision-making, and patience. The end result can be a dream home that perfectly suits your lifestyle and preferences. It's important to work closely with professionals, stay engaged throughout the process, and be prepared for the unique challenges that may arise. Southern Charm Building & Construction Inc. can help with every step of the process, from initial design to final inspection. Call us today at 352-631-8983 and let’s get started.

Are Custom Built Homes Expensive?

Mon, 23 Jan 2023 16:37:14 GMT

2023 Florida Custom Home Building Costs

How much are custom-built homes in Florida? What is the “normal” square foot price? If you’re in the market for a custom Florida home, you’ll probably have plenty of questions. No worries, today’s article is all about the real cost of a custom home. Here’s what you should know:

Custom Homes vs Spec Homes: what are the differences?

So, you’ve decided to build your own Florida home? You’ll probably be wondering whether a custom home or a spec home is the best option.

A spec home is the typical home found in suburban lots. These are built off a plan before there is a buyer. This means that spec home neighborhoods all have the same type of home built over and over again. Since these homes are designed to appeal to a large audience, most features are basic and neutral. One of the benefits of spec homes is that you might be able to invest in a home that’s almost fully built, which could make moving in a faster process. However, the length of spec home constructions has significantly increased in Florida, pushing move-in dates further into the future.

On the other side of the spectrum, there’s custom homes . These are designed with a specific buyer in mind (you). Custom-built homes will be tailored to your needs and you can tweak every detail to fit your dream plan.

Most people still think custom-built homes are more expensive. However, according to a recent census, the price per square foot of a custom-built home in Florida in 2020 was barely higher than a spec home [1]. Price-wise, a custom home might allow you to make bigger savings down the road: you can customize the design, materials and orientation to be as efficient as possible. In Florida, energy-efficiency is key to save on utilities later on, and only a custom-built home lets you do those changes.

Features that affect the price per sqft of a custom home build

Not all homes are created equal, and the specific features and details you choose will have a direct effect on the final investment.

1. The size of your home

This might sound basic, but oftentimes it’s forgotten in the planning stages: the larger your home, the more you’ll have to invest. When considering the size, take into account the “outside” spaces of your home. These include the garage, backyard patio, driveway… Generally speaking, a larger home will also have more walls, meaning more materials are being used. This can significantly hike up the final price, compared to a smaller home with similar features.

2. Wall height and ceilings

Some features immediately make the cost of a custom-built home go up. For example, the floor-to-ceiling height directly affects the cost of materials to build the outside “envelope” of your home. Vaulted ceilings in particular can significantly increase your price per square foot: this architectural feature usually requires custom-built beams and non-standard insulation and framing.

On the other hand, you might also be able to save on utilities down the line through customization. This is especially important here in Florida, where heating costs can represent a big chunk of your budget after moving in. By selecting specific heating and cooling systems that are more energy-efficient, and designing a home that takes advantage of natural light, you could lower your future utility costs.

3. Concrete vs wood frames

When going for a custom-built home, the materials you choose will directly impact the final cost. From the basic structure of your home to the end finishes, it all adds up.

Concrete block constructions are naturally fire resistant and make for incredibly durable homes. In beach-side properties this is especially important, since concrete can usually handle salt air better than other materials. This also keeps your insurance costs lower.

On the flip side, wood frames have great insulation performance and allow for relatively fast construction. Unfortunately, insurance costs tend to be higher because of the risk of eventual termite damage and higher vulnerability than concrete builds.

Generally speaking, here in Florida concrete block homes have a higher price per square feet. However, lumber prices have steadily risen post-2020, which makes wood frames more expensive than before. Ask your contractor for their advice: some areas have different prices on specific materials.

4. Finishes

The kitchen and bathroom are usually the most expensive rooms to build, mainly because of the fittings (mirrors, cabinets, lights…). Your chosen countertop can also heavily influence your price per square feet: choosing butcher block is not the same as going for marble or quartz.

Make sure to agree with your builder on bathroom and kitchen accessories so they are written in the contract. All those handles and small details add up, so it’s best to let your builder know if you have a specific style in mind so they quote appropriately.

5. Your builder’s expertise

When investing in a custom-built home, you’re also getting your builder’s experience. In Florida, it’s particularly important to go for a trusty contractor that knows the specific challenges and requirements of the state.

An expert builder will be able to help you navigate the building process and make sure your home adheres to the latest code. Skimping on labor costs always comes at a price later on, and when it comes to your future home, we don’t recommend cutting corners.

Escalation clauses: Are there hidden costs in your custom home building quote?

Before hiring a builder, make sure to ask about any escalation clauses on the contract. If you’re not familiar with the lingo, this is a section on the contract that regulates increases in the quote and a re-negotiation of the final price.

Escalation can be due to upgrades done along the way, for example when switching to a more expensive countertop. However, there is also the possibility of having something called material escalation. This type of clause was created to cover the hike in the price of construction material, particularly after 2020. Also called “builder’s escalation clause”, it can cause the closing price of your home to go up significantly.

Most escalation clauses state that a builder can increase the final cost up to a certain percentage, in order to cover the rising costs of specific materials (lumber, concrete…).

In our experience, escalation clauses can be tricky. Many unscrupulous builders don’t disclose them, so clients end up investing more than what they planned to.

It’s important to work with a trustworthy builder that is transparent about pricing, whether they include an escalation clause and what are its terms.

PRO TIP: If you ask about escalation clauses and your builder doesn’t give you a straight answer, take it as a red flag. A good builder respects you and will try to make the contract as clear as possible.

How to choose the right custom home builder

So, you’re ready to start building your dream home, but still haven’t selected the right contractor? If you don’t know where to start, here are a few must-haves:

Experience: Some skills can only be learnt on the job, so make sure you hire someone that has several projects under their belt. An experienced builder will also be able to give advice on the project as a whole, as well as a better estimate on delays.

Prior Client Testimonials: Ask your prospective builder about past clients. A good contractor usually has plenty of good recommendations and happy clients vouching for them.

Service Area & Local Contacts: Hiring a local custom home builder will always be the better choice. With a local contractor, they’ll have the network and contacts to solve any problems right away. Plus, they’ll have access to trusty suppliers and might even be able to get a few discounts.

Final thoughts

Considering the current market and labor costs, making the right choices for your custom-built home will greatly affect your final price per square foot. If you have questions, it’s best to talk to a local builder: they’ll have the expertise to give informed advice and offer opinions tailored to the area you want to build in.

If you have questions, call Southern Charm Building & Construction at (352) 631-8983 . Our team is happy to help you figure out your next steps.

References:

1. US 2020 housing Census. Available here .

Why Building a Home in Florida is Still the Best Investment You Can Make

Fri, 11 Nov 2022 15:21:54 GMT

6 reasons why building a home in Florida is a great investment

The sunshine state has been an investment favorite for years, but is it still a profitable option? With the changing economy, it’s easy to question if this is the move for you. If you’re considering building a home in Florida and wonder if it’s a good investment, consider these six reasons.

1. Florida is a great place to live and continues to grow

Investment is all about location, and Florida has been blessed with amazing weather year-round. The mild temperature helps keep the state lively, and even in the middle of winter there are plenty of cultural activities and natural attractions to visit.

Regardless of your interests or age group, there’s always something to do in Florida. Our area, west central Florida, attracts all sorts of people: retirees looking for affordable living, golfers wanting to play year round on the many courses, and people of all ages who can enjoy the many attractions of the Nature Coast and theTampa Bay Area. For Florida investors, this means the state is consistently growing, and its attractiveness will stay stable: everyone wants to spend a few sunny days in Florida as soon as the weather up north turns wintery.

2. Florida is economically stable

In line with being a great place, Florida’s economy has remained growing and very attractive. According to a 2022 CNBC report, Florida is among the top states for business [2] because of its relatively low unemployment rate, consistent growth in employment and relative affordability [3].

As we mentioned above, even after the 2020 pandemic Florida has remained economically strong, and is set up to achieve pre-2020 numbers (both in visitors and in economic stats) by 2023. This is a feat not many states have been able to claim, and speaks volumes as to the strength of the Floridian economy.

3. A home is a tangible asset

A home is a tangible asset that is more protected from normal market fluctuation than market investments. It is also an investment you can actually use while growing equity, so it serves a double purpose. One of the best aspects of investing in tangible assets (like a home), is that you can easily increase its value by making a few renovations. Simple features such as a new bathroom remodel or adding a bedroom can really pay off in the long term.

4. You get tax breaks

In the US, owning an investment property comes with a few tax advantages that can definitely lower your payments. Since owning an investment property is a source of income, you can actually deduct many of the major expenses from owning a home. As such, mortgage interest, property fees, insurance, property taxes and even repairs can be deducted from your tax declaration.

And, if you sell your home for a profit, the gain cannot be taxed as income but as capital gains. Capital gains usually have a lower tax rate so that’s even more savings for you [4].

On top of the usual tax benefits, Florida is one of the few states without a personal income tax, making it a favorite among retirees wishing to stretch their income without sacrificing comfort.

5. Owning a home gives you security and stability

Investing in real estate is a great way to invest in the long-term. This means you can keep your investment for several years and it can appreciate over time. Owning an investment property also provides a stable income that will pay for the mortgage. You can also do room rentals or rent to a group to increase income and pay the mortgage faster: take a look at this amortization calculator to see the amortization rate of your mortgage.

With a mean appreciation rate of around 5% per year, [5] owning an investment residential property is a great way of ensuring your family’s future without worrying about sudden unemployment.

6. Build to invest in your future and enjoy the present

Part of Florida’s allure is the strong tourism all around the state. According to official stats, more than 100 million tourists visit the entire estate every year. Even after the pandemic visitors have increased: in 2021 around 122 million visitors came to the sunshine state [5].

The constant influx of visitors means there’s a consistent need for rental properties, which attracts investors and creates an active real estate market. Building a home designed to facilitate an enjoyable vacation and to access local attractions will be easy to market on Air BnB or VRBO. Such a solid investment will not only appreciate as the years go by, you and your family will be able to enjoy a property in a sought-after location with plenty of demand in the meantime. Property investment can get you one step closer to a worry-free, financially stable life, and building a home in Florida is a great option.

Three more things to keep in mind about building a home in Florida

So you think this is a good option for you? Here are the basics to consider.

Location is key

Although the entire state is a great place to invest in, some cities and suburbs are more active than others. Depending on what you envision your investment property to be, you’ll have a better chance with specific locations over others. Whether a city is more walkable, offers more nightlife or is closer to the beach might all lead to different choices and possibilities. Doing your research here is key.

Go with a new build

New residential constructions are your best option when investing in Florida real estate. A new building is subject to the most updated code, and as we’ve seen before, buildings that follow it have a better chance against hurricanes and storms. New buildings also command higher rents, making your return on investment even higher.

Find a trusted custom home builder

Of course, getting a trusted custom home builder is your best option to ensure the entire process goes as smoothly as possible. Especially if this is your first time doing a custom build, an experienced local builder will be able to offer targeted advice and handle most of the paperwork for you. And knowing you can trust them to do a good job is one less thing to worry about.

References

https://www.cnbc.com/2022/07/13/top-states-for-business-2022-florida.html
https://www.usnews.com/news/best-states/florida
https://www.rocketmortgage.com/learn/benefits-of-real-estate-investing
https://moneytips.com/what-does-home-appreciation-mean/
https://www.visitflorida.org/resources/research/research-faq/

5 Key Elements When Building a Custom Home in Florida

sandi@simplylocalsocial.com (Sandra Brown) — Tue, 13 Sep 2022 21:09:59 GMT

Start with these 5 things when you decide to build

After years in the business, we know a thing or two about custom Florida homes. If you’re just starting your journey and don’t know where to start, here are 5 of our must-haves.

1. Sustainability

This is one of the main reasons why our clients choose to build a custom home. The ability to select the building materials one by one allows them to get a home that aligns with their sustainable principles. A sustainable home will help lessen your household’s overall carbon footprint, and can even lower your utility bills over time.

Sustainable can look very different according to your budget. For example, you might want to install a solar panel system to power your home. With the harsh Florida sun, most homes can easily cut down their electricity bill with solar panels.

Another great feature of a sustainable custom home is the choice in materials. You will have full control of what materials are used to build your home, so you can select non-toxic, ecologically responsible materials. Recycled options are also a great way of adding environmentally-conscious elements to your home.

Building a home from scratch also allows you to choose a sustainable roof from the beginning, instead of fully renovating the roof after buying. The right roof can lower the heat absorbed from the sun, meaning you’ll need less power to cool down your home.

Of course, pick and choose according to your budget and needs. You don’t need to have a 100% recycled home for it to be sustainable.

2. Survivability

We love our state, but it’s impossible to deny living here has its challenges. On top of the year-round radiation and salty air, we also deal with hurricane season and serious downpours. Homes that are near the coast are especially vulnerable to these issues. Luckily, by building a custom home you can make sure your house will be ready for heavy winds and intense rain. For example, you will be able to install hurricane impact windows, which are designed to resist not only the wind, but also the impact of flying debris in the event of a hurricane.

Custom builds also allow you to control the shape of the roof, which can minimize the impact of heavy winds in your home. Multi-panel roofs in a hexagon shape, for example, perform better in high-wind situations than traditional roofs [3].

Another cool feature is building an elevated first floor. According to NOAA’s data, Florida’s sea level will rise in the next years [1], so building a home higher than usual can help mitigate the risks in case of flooding.

Having your home blueprint checked by a local engineer will also make sure it is as safe as possible in case of a weather emergency.

3. Air Flow

We love the sun and the year-round heat, but living in a home that gets too hot is very difficult. Fortunately, building a custom house can guarantee good airflow, to stay as cool as possible without even using AC. Proper airflow (which many old houses don’t have) greatly increases indoor air quality, leading to fewer allergies and even improved mental health. [2]

Of course, the first thing to consider for good airflow is your home’s orientation on your land. If possible, making doors and windows in the direction of the usual air currents can significantly lower the need for AC. Installing a proper air vent in the attic ensures hot air gets out instead of getting trapped and overheating the upper floor.

Making sure vents are in an optimal place is also easier when you’re building a custom home. So, for example, air ducts and vents need to be placed so the cooler rooms can supply cold air to the rest of the home, which in turn boosts your home’s energy efficiency.

4. Air Conditioning

Especially in Florida, having a home with good AC is a must! To keep the muggy weather at bay, an AC system that works is key. New, custom-built homes are up to 17% more energy-efficient than traditional buildings, simply because they follow newer building codes. By building an energy-efficient home you’re effectively cutting down your electricity bill, especially during the warmer months.

The beauty of custom homes is that you can actually build them to lessen the electricity needed to cool them down. So, for example, we would recommend minimizing huge windows on South-facing walls. This would prevent the harsh afternoon sun from shining inside your home, keeping the house cooler.

Another must is having energy-efficient windows. These are built with an insulating system that keeps hot air out and cold fresh in, without needing to have sun-blocking curtains. The frame in these windows is also well-sealed, which helps insulate your home even further.

Of course, to keep your home comfortable you will need a modern AC system. Whether you’re installing central AC or a split unit, a custom home allows you to have a great cooling system without having exposed ducts all over the place.

Finally, with a custom home, you’ll be able to plan your gardens from scratch. Getting weather-appropriate plants, as well as planting hedges to block the sun, is a great way to save on your water bill and help cool down your outdoor spaces.

5. Durability

If you’re building your own home, you can select materials to stand up to the test of time. This means you can not only tailor the size and design to your taste, but you can also ensure it can be passed down to your loved ones. Long-lasting materials include brick, stone, steel and concrete. These hold up well over time, even in our harsh weather and strong winds. Another great option is providing a solid foundation for your home through helical piers: these make sure your home’s weight rests on the solid ground below our sandy soils and prevent foundation damage down the line.

Building a home designed to bring enjoyment and living ease to you and your family is important. Equally important is building a home to sustain and protect your family in our tropical climate. Hopefully, the five elements we covered here will get you started on your way.

References

1. NOAA. Water levels data. Available here.

2. American Psychological Association. Smog in our brains. Available here.

3. New Jersey Institute of Technology. Home shapes and roofs that hold up best in hurricanes. Available here.

Creating An Open Concept Living Area

sandi@simplylocalsocial.com (Sandra Brown) — Wed, 31 Aug 2022 21:27:41 GMT

Creating an open concept living area: what you need to know

Want to create an open-concept living space? Great to make any room feel big and bright, this popular feature is common in contemporary homes. Unfortunately, older buildings are usually the complete opposite. But with the proper plan and some remodeling, you can create your dream open concept home. Here’s everything you need to know about this process.

What is an open concept home?

With all the interior design lingo going around, it’s important to have a clear idea of what everything means. Open concept is exactly that: a more open design. In general, “open concept” refers to a space that combines two or more traditional rooms. For example, an open-concept kitchen living room is a classic choice that allows these key living spaces to be connected.

In general, the open concept involves opening up the main floor or common areas of a home. Most people prefer bedrooms (and bathrooms) to still have walls. However, some homes are fully open, like lofts and studio apartments.

Can you remodel a traditional home to be open concept?

Yes! However, there are some caveats.

If you’ve seen any remodeling show, you’ll be familiar with the process of throwing down walls and opening holes everywhere. And considering an open concept can increase your home’s resale value, there’s a lot of interest in this type of home remodeling.

However, depending on what kind of home you’re dealing with, an open concept remodel can be relatively easy, or a very involved process. Before doing an open-plan remodel, it’s important to know what you’re looking for and have a trusted contractor to walk you through the process.

Benefits of an open concept home

Still on the fence about this major home remodel? Here are some of the reasons our clients chose to do an open concept renovation:

1. Family- and guest-friendly: This is one of the main reasons why people love open concept design. When the kitchen and other living areas are connected, it allows parents to keep an eye on young children even if they aren’t side by side. It’s also easier to fit the family in the same room: while a parent cooks the kids can do homework in the kitchen island without it feeling cramped. And if you like to host, having an open kitchen is great to prepare snacks while talking to your guests.

2. Makes your space feel larger: Open concept creates the illusion of a large, comfortable space… regardless of its actual size! Without walls, our brains think the room is larger than it really is.

3. More usable space: Walls take up a lot of space. The couple extra square feet can make a big difference, particularly in smaller spaces. You’ll be able to use every last inch of space in your home by eliminating dead zones, instead of losing it on cumbersome walls and weird nooks.

4. It lets light in: We could all do with more light. Open concept means no barriers for the sunshine you naturally get. Plus, if you have a good view from the windows, you’ll be able to enjoy it from the entire main floor. This is especially useful to make a traditional home feel more modern, since dark, poorly-lit rooms scream “dated”.

5. Increased real estate value: Of course, on top of making a home feel larger, most home buyers are willing to spend more in an open concept house. According to experts, open concept homes (both by design or converted) can be sold for up to 15% more than comparable traditional homes.

Step-by-step: How does an open concept remodel work?

Convinced an open plan home is the right fit? That’s great! This kind of renovation can be daunting, so to calm your mind, here’s a general blueprint of the process. Of course, this will vary depending on your home and your remodeling team but this is how it usually goes:

Step 1. Find a trusty contractor

When converting a sectional home into an open concept design, having an experienced home remodeling contractor is the only way to ensure a smooth process. A contractor that has several open-concept conversion projects under their belt will offer valuable insight into what will work best for your project and your needs.

Remember that an open-concept remodel will likely imply eliminating load-bearing walls. To ensure the end result is as sturdy as the original, your contractor will install new beams to support the ceiling. This is a complex process that should be done by an experienced team only.

Step 2. Analyze your home

After finding the right contractor, they will visit and analyze your home floor plan. It’s best if you already have the plans, but generally, a contractor can also source them for you. At this point, the evaluation will include a survey of your foundation and basement, to figure out which walls are load-bearing. Depending on your home, the remodel might imply either installing beams, or a combination of posts and beams to support the ceiling.

Step 3. Create a plan

Pairing the current layout of your home and your ideas, you and your contractor will come up with a plan. Here’s when it gets fun: you’ll be able to create the home of your dreams! Of course, depending on your budget and the layout you’re after, the options might change.

At this point, you can also modify the open concept design as needed. For example, an open-concept vaulted living room might give your home that elegant feel you’re after. Or you might want to leave some walls up but have an open concept kitchen with an island and living room in the same space.

Step 4. Bare the walls & move services

Once the plan is set, the actual work begins. This involves tearing down some walls and moving whatever is inside. This process usually requires calling on different technicians to move your service lines (water, electricity, HVAC if needed). Some remodels will only need to move one or two things, but others can imply significant work at this stage. It all depends on the end design.

Step 5. Install beams & reinforce the structure

When the service lines have been moved, your contractor can proceed to the structural remodeling. Depending on which walls you’re moving, your contractor will have to install load-bearing beams. This is where the bulk of the budget will go, since keeping your home safe and sound is a top priority. At this point, he or she will also be moving and reinstalling walls following the end design.

Step 6. Finish up the space

Once the structure is done and beams are installed, you're almost done. Your home remodel team will start patching everything up and creating the final look. This means installing new floors (or patching and refinishing the old ones), finishing walls, installing trim, and painting. Depending on your design, at this point, you can install a new kitchen or you’ll get new furniture for the living room.

Creating an open concept space is possible even in the most traditional homes.

We’ve helped many clients build the space of their dreams, so let us know if you’d like to convert to open space.

Six Ways to Hurricane Proof Your House

sandi@simplylocalsocial.com (Sandra Brown) — Thu, 21 Jul 2022 21:34:16 GMT

Hurricane Proof Your House

Hurricane season is here… is your home ready? With powerful wind gusts and what feels like never-ending rain, storms in Florida can get tough. Luckily, you can make sure your loved ones stay safe. Today is all about our best ideas to fortify your home for hurricanes.

With tropical storms and hurricanes just around the corner, floods and wind gusts are a real danger. For us living in coastal areas, this is a yearly event. In fact, among all of the United States, Florida is among the top 5 hurricane-prone areas [1] and we have by far the highest hurricane occurrence, more than double compared to the second runner-up (Texas).

According to the National Hurricane Center, a good hurricane plan needs three elements:

Proper home insurance.
Adequate fortification of your home.
A good evacuation plan.

When it comes to home insurance, we recommend hiring a company with good reviews. It’s a good idea to ask your neighbors, especially if they’ve been in the area for a few years. On the other hand, your evacuation plan will depend on your specific area, and whether or not you are at risk of flooding.

As for fortifying your home, this is one of the easiest ways of reducing the possible damage to your property, even if you have to leave under short notice.

Top ways to fortify your home for hurricanes

Here are our top six recommendations to secure your home:

1. Secure Your Roof

Hurricanes bring winds of up to more than 160mph! In buildings built with old code, that’s enough to make the roof collapse in no time. Fortunately, the new Florida code has strict regulations that keep houses safer than ever, so a newly installed roof is one of the best options to ensure it stays put in a natural event.

Broadly speaking, an expert team should follow these safety standards:

A plywood bottom layer held by nails and/or hurricane clips
A sealing membrane covering the bottom layer
Storm-resistant shingles or metal panels

On top of these essentials, securing your roof from inside using metal connectors, retrofit clips and roof straps can help it stay put.

Make sure you have a professional doing your roof installation, particularly if hurricanes are a concern. A high-quality roof won’t cut it if the installation isn’t done right.

As for the best roof materials to resist hurricanes, we know properly installed metal roofs are the best wind-resistant roofing option in the market [2]. In fact, the homes left standing after Hurricane Michael in Mexico beach [3] had mostly metal roofs. If you’re in a hurricane-prone area, a metal roof with mechanically seamed panels will have the best uplift performance in high winds.

2. Avoid internal pressure

High winds during a hurricane can get inside your home through any crack and create pressure from within. This powerful force makes a “blow up” effect that tries to push out the walls. If the internal wind pressure in your home keeps increasing, it will exponentially increase the risk of roof collapse.

To lower your chances, it’s important to prevent pressurization by installing the right windows and doors. Choosing the right Design Pressure Rating (also known as DP rating) on doors and windows ensures those entry points are able to resist debris and wind pressure. It is best to do this when building out your new residential construction . However, windows can be replaced at any point in the lifetime of a home.

To protect your windows, using storm shutters or, even wood panels, is a great idea. These work with or without impact-resistant windows.

Finally, on top of securing doors and windows, keep in mind other places where the wind could get in. If you know a hurricane is coming your way, seal outside wall openings, vents, electrical outlets, or pipes. Try to use waterproof material to keep the rain out. Never let a window open to “stabilize pressure”, it will only get more wind inside your home and create pressure on your roof.

3. Wind-proof your garage door

PRO TIP: Remember to wind-proof your garage door! If at all possible, get a wind-rated and impact-tested garage door. If that’s not possible, you can install a kit to brace it and make it hold up better.

4. Lower your outside risk

While it’s impossible to completely avoid flying debris, keeping your surroundings free of possible debris is the next best thing. Here are some of the most common issues:

Survey your trees for any branches hanging too close to your home. Check your neighbors’ as well, in case their trees are too close. Cut back any branches near power lines and your home and remove dead trees if any.
Store or secure your outdoor furniture. A flying lounge chair can break a window.
Use sandbags to secure entry points and block off the water. Experts recommend piling up at least 2 feet of sandbags to prevent flood water from getting in.
Clean out your gutters and downspouts.
Park your vehicle on higher ground.

5. Hurricane proof your air conditioner

It’s very common for utilities to suffer during hurricane season. On top of the usual power outages, flying debris might destroy your HVAC, rip out any solar panels on the roof or damage a split AC unit.

To start, it’s important to turn off your AC system and, if possible, your power. This lowers your chances of the equipment being damaged by power surges in case of a power outage. If you have an AC system, you have two options: either removing it altogether or covering it to prevent damage from flying debris. Make sure your HVAC is properly secured so it doesn’t fly off. Split systems and window ac units fare better if you power them off and take them off the window to prevent damage.

6. Have backups and essentials ready

If you live in Florida, it’s very likely you have a backup generator and a few batteries ready for hurricane season. We recommend checking everything BEFORE the first alert! Nothing is worse than thinking you’ll have backup power to realize your old generator is out in the middle of a storm.

Do an annual checkup on all your generators, making sure they are powerful enough for your needs and double-checking for any adaptors needed. A solar-power generator can be a great idea to protect yourself from power outages. Unlike traditional ones that tend to be noisy and use fuel, solar-powered generators can be a great eco-friendly backup.

Other must-haves during storm season are charged power banks, surge protectors, flashlights (with fresh batteries), and/or portable power stations.

Following these six steps is a good start to getting your home protected and ready for this hurricane season.

References

1. National Hurricane Center. National storm surge hazard maps.

2. Scientific American. The Buildings That Survived Michael Hold the Key to Adaptation.

3. The Washington Post. Houses intact after Hurricane Michael were often saved by low-cost reinforcements .