🏗️ The Pros and Cons of Buying New Construction in Florida

(Including Custom Homes, Island Builds, Lakewood Ranch & Luxury Condos)

Buying new construction in Florida offers everything from turnkey builder homes to coastal custom estates and luxury high-rise condos. Whether you're relocating, investing, or seeking your forever home, understanding the real pros and cons of new construction—including HOAs, CDDs, and build locations—is key to making the right decision.

✅ Pros of Buying or Building New Construction

✨ Everything Is Brand New

Enjoy peace of mind with:

• Brand new HVAC, roof, plumbing, appliances

• Energy-efficient features and updated hurricane codes

• Included builder warranties (typically 1-year workmanship and 10-year structural)

🖼️ Customization & Modern Design

Choose your finishes, floorplans, and features. Builders today offer:

• Open-concept layouts

• Smart home integrations

• Spa bathrooms, designer kitchens, and multi-use flex spaces

🏠 Energy Efficiency & Better Codes

New homes come with:

• Superior insulation and low-E windows

• Energy Star-rated appliances

• Impact glass, raised foundations, and wind mitigation for Florida storms

💡 What Are HOA and CDD Fees?

🧾 HOA (Homeowners Association) Fees:

Most new construction communities in Florida—especially gated or amenity-rich neighborhoods—have HOAs that cover:

• Lawn maintenance & landscaping

• Amenity upkeep (clubhouse, pool, fitness center, etc.)

• Neighborhood standards & rules

🟢 Pro: Keeps the community looking great
🔴 Con: Monthly or quarterly dues + restrictions on home personalization

🏛️ CDD (Community Development District) Fees:

Common in master-planned communities like Lakewood Ranch, CDDs are additional taxes used to fund:

• Infrastructure like roads, water, sewer, parks

• Paid off over 20–30 years and added to your tax bill

🟢 Pro: Brings high-end amenities without upfront costs
🔴 Con: Adds to annual property taxes—so always check your total monthly cost

🌴 Building a Custom Home or Building on the Islands

🏝️ Sarasota’s barrier islands (Siesta Key, Lido Key, Longboat Key, and Bird Key)

• Offer one-of-a-kind custom home opportunities

• High-end lots or tear-downs perfect for coastal dream homes

Pros:

• Waterfront access, private docks, elevated views

• Full design control

• High rental and resale demand

Challenges:

• Flood zone permitting and FEMA elevation requirements

• Limited inventory + premium land prices

• Longer timelines and permitting processes

• Work only with experienced coastal builders and agents

🏘️ Lakewood Ranch: Florida’s Top New Construction Community

One of the top-selling master-planned communities in the U.S., Lakewood Ranch offers a massive selection of new construction options, from affordable homes to luxury custom builds.

Why Buyers Love It:

• Dozens of gated neighborhoods with new homes

• Top-rated schools, shopping, dining, and medical

• A+ amenities: golf, tennis, pickleball, resort pools, parks, and trails

• Low-maintenance villas, family homes, and custom estates

• Many communities have HOA + CDD fees, so budget accordingly

Whether you're downsizing, upsizing, or investing, Lakewood Ranch has a new home for every stage of life.

🏙️ Sarasota’s New Luxury Condos: Maintenance-Free, Amenity-Rich

If you prefer high-rise living, downtown Sarasota offers brand-new luxury condo developments with next-level amenities.

Top New Projects:

• The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Sarasota Bay – Private harbor access, full Ritz services

• One Park Sarasota – Over 40,000 sq ft of amenities, spa, club room, and pool

• Bayso Sarasota (Sold Out) – Clean, contemporary design near The Quay

• 1000 Blvd of the Arts (Pre-construction) – The future of bayfront living

These developments offer:

• Lock-and-leave convenience

• Valet, concierge, rooftop pools, wellness spas, private lounges

• Walkability to restaurants, galleries, and the Sarasota waterfront

❌ Potential Drawbacks of New Construction

• Longer build timelines or unexpected delays

• Hidden upgrade costs beyond base price

• Smaller lots and less mature landscaping

• HOA & CDD fees that impact monthly costs

• Custom homes and island builds require more time, permitting, and patience

💬 Final Thoughts: Is New Construction Right for You?

Florida’s Gulf Coast offers an exciting range of new construction options—from custom estates on the islands, to amenity-rich homes in Lakewood Ranch, to luxury condos in Sarasota’s urban core.

With the right guidance, you can find or build a home that reflects your lifestyle, goals, and budget.

📞 Thinking about new construction in Sarasota, Lakewood Ranch, or the islands? I’ll help you compare builders, communities, custom lots, and condos.

Please inquire about select buyer and seller representation. 941-303-9575

Chandler South
Broker/Owner
Florida Life Team Realty
☀️ Search FL Homes → LivePlayFlorida.com