If you have recently built a new custom Sarasota or Longboat Key home, chances are excellent that you built in an existing neighborhood. Vacant buildable lots are at a premium, and most new homes are constructed on lots which have had an older home torn down.
Even if the lot has never had a home on it, you likely have existing neighbors, and the neighborhood probably has a “feel” to it. Here’s how to build a home in such a way that keeps your neighbors happy, but still expresses your sense of style.
Welcome to the Neighborhood!
Before you decide to build in an existing neighborhood, you will need to obtain and review any deed restrictions of neighborhood covenants. These documents can sometimes dictate the size of home allowed, how many stories, the type of roof, or whether or not you can build a fence. While most traditional, established neighborhoods in Sarasota do not have very many restrictions (you’ll find those at the newer, gated tract home sites) it is important to check before deciding on the final design of your home. Your Sarasota custom home builder should be well-versed in those areas and the building requirements for each.
Once you have established what you can build:
- Assess the Vibe of the Neighborhood: Theoretically, you looked for a lot in a community which has similar style homes, but perhaps not. Much of Sarasota is transitioning from older ranch homes to a more contemporary feel. If your neighbors all have mid-century homes and you are building a modern mansion, you may wish to hold off on the stone entrance pillars and electronic gate. Yes, it is your home, but making yourself the showy center of the neighborhood may not be desirable at this point.
- Keep Up with the Landscaping: If your new neighborhood is older, with large canopy trees and mature landscaping, you may wish to plan on leaving as many of your trees as possible in place – or perhaps planning on a more extensive landscaping package to more quickly fit in. Mature trees can be expensive to plant, but may also help your new home to fit in.
- Don’t Fence Them Out: These days, it is certainly not uncommon for a homeowner to fence in their yard, whether for privacy, or to keep pets and children safe. If your new neighborhood allows fences – and you have a choice of style – you may wish to speak to the neighbors before erecting the fence. Again, this is your home and your choice – but as your new neighbors will be looking at the fence all day as well, it is polite to speak with them and let them in on your plans, and possibly even come up with a joint plan which works for everyone’s sense of style.
- Keep Their Privacy in Mind: If all of your neighbors have one story homes, and you have a rooftop deck on the third floor, you will be able to see onto everyone’s property. If you can obstruct any obvious intrusions into their privacy while maintaining your view, consider that. For instance, line your deck with plants or hedges which allow you to look out at the Gulf of Mexico, but not down into your neighbors hot tub.
Sarasota and Longboat Key are changing – and the real estate is changing along with it. While no one expects you to re-design your dream home to completely fit in, taking your neighbors into account in small ways will go a long way to establishing friendships and a sense of camaraderie – and that is the best way to blend into your new environment.
Lindahl Construction is proud to build quality new homes throughout Sarasota and Manatee County. If you need help with your home design or are searching for an available lot, call us today.