In Sarasota, you’ll find water, water everywhere! From above, you can see an intricate web of rivers and canals which snake throughout the entire town.
Of course, the Sarasota Keys (including Siesta Key, Lido Key, Bird Key, and Longboat Key) offer deep water living opportunities which include the Gulf of Mexico and Sarasota Bay. Many of those looking to move to this area are hoping to take advantage of this vast network of waterways perfect for boating, fishing, and kayaking – not to mention viewing our unparalleled sunsets.
When building waterfront property, you will need to be aware of a few unique considerations. We think you’ll find that life on the water is completely worth the extra due diligence!
Building Waterfront Property in Sarasota
- Lifestyle Choice: There are many types of waterfront property in this town. Are you looking for peaceful views of the Gulf, or are you hoping to go sailing? Do you have a small fishing boat or a large cabin cruiser? The depth of the water and the width of the channel will determine what type of boating is possible. Bird Key and Longboat Key canals are perfect for docking and sailing your deep water boat, while a beachfront property provides relaxing vacation days – but you can’t moor a vessel. Once you know why you want to be on the water, we can help to determine where you can build.
- Additional Costs: Besides real estate being pricier along our beautiful waterways – especially with empty lots being scarce – you will also be required to pay higher hurricane premiums and flood insurance. (Mandatory with loans, voluntary if you pay cash.) You may also have to pay for dock and davit maintenance if they are resident on your property.
- Daytime vs. Nighttime Views: Although sunsets over the Gulf are breathtaking, once the sun goes down, it is pitch black over the water. By contrast, a home on Sarasota Bay will allow you to watch the lights across the water all night long. If you are someone who likes to linger outside on balmy evenings, you may wish for a city view rather than a Gulf front property.
- Storm Preparations and Evacuations: As with any waterfront property, you will likely need to be prepared to protect your property against storm surges and floodwaters which may result from severe weather. When building a new home, you can build up the lot with fill to create a slope down to the water. Still, although your home may be built at an acceptable elevation, evacuations are sometimes necessary.
- Sharing Your Backyard: Living directly on the water means that you will likely have people floating past your property on a daily basis. On a summer weekend, you can expect quite a few fellow water lovers within close proximity to your backyard.
- Salt Air and Sea Spray: From keeping your windows clean to cultivating a thriving garden, living directly on saltwater can be a bit challenging. Be sure to speak with your Sarasota home builder about windows, roofing materials, and paint which are designed to withstand the weather.
If you are building waterfront property, you are in an enviable position. Living on the water inspires peace and calm, and is a truly special experience. If you are looking for a waterfront lot to build a custom home, give Lindahl Construction a call.
We’ve been building Longboat Key waterfront homes for decades – and we’d love to build your dream home as well.