A Guide to Building New Homes in Orange Beach, Alabama, and Ono Island

Building a new home in areas like Orange Beach and Ono Island requires careful attention to local building codes, environmental factors, and coastal zone regulations. Selecting the right real estate agent with expertise in new construction can make the process much smoother. Meredith Amon, who specializes in new construction home sales, has the experience and knowledge to help you find the right builders and contractors who will ensure your home is constructed with the highest level of quality, craftsmanship, and materials.

Essential Permits for New Construction

Before construction begins, several permits must be obtained for building a one- or two-family home. These include:

Building Permit – Required for the overall construction of the home.
Site Permit – Covers stormwater management, tree removal, and driveway installation, and must be submitted with the building permit for review.
Roofing Permit – If the roofing is subcontracted, this permit can be obtained later, but must be in place before roofing work starts.

Special Considerations for Coastal Construction

Building near the Gulf of Mexico involves unique challenges due to the coastal environment. These include flood zones, high winds, and storm surges, which must be considered in your home’s design and construction. Here are some critical documents and certifications required for homes in coastal zones:

V-Zone Certification – Homes in Flood Zone VE (high-risk areas exposed to high-velocity waves) must obtain a V-Zone certificateThis certificate ensures that the lowest structural member of the home is elevated above the base flood elevation (BFE) and that the foundation can withstand both water and wind loads.
Coastal-A Zone Certificate – If your property is in a Coastal AE zone, a certificate confirming that your home complies with the necessary flood elevation and structural standards must be submitted. Homes in these zones face flood risks, but not the high-velocity wave action seen in VE zones. Elevated foundations and flood-resistant materials are key in both zones.
Wind Load Design Certification – Orange Beach and Ono Island homes must be designed to withstand strong winds. A professional engineer or architect must certify that the home complies with wind load standards

Importance of Working with a Realtor Specializing in New Construction

Building a new home in these coastal areas requires not just following the rules but also ensuring the highest standards of craftsmanship. This is where Meredith Amon’s expertise becomes invaluable. As a realtor specializing in new construction, Meredith has a general knowledge of local building codes and construction techniques. More importantly, she can connect you with the best builders and contractors in the Orange Beach and Ono Island areas who are experienced in constructing homes built to withstand coastal conditions.

These top-tier professionals are skilled in implementing cutting-edge building practices, including Insulated Concrete Form (ICF) construction, fortified roofs, and high-impact glass, all of which are essential for homes in hurricane-prone areas. With Meredith's trusted network of builders, you can rest assured that your home will be built with the highest level of quality, using materials designed for durability, energy efficiency, and long-term value.

Additional Requirements for Coastal Construction

Building in coastal areas requires attention to details that are unique to the environment:

Boundary Surveys and Site Plans – For properties in flood zones, site plans must depict the exact location of flood hazards, ensuring that homes are built above base flood elevations. This ensures protection against rising waters
Fill Samples and Coastal Permits – If fill material (such as sand or soil) is required, it must meet specific criteria based on the property's flood zone designation. Coastal permits are also necessary for any projects within the designated Coastal Zone

Why Choose Meredith Amon for Your New Construction Home

Choosing a real estate professional who understands both the local market and new construction is crucial to building a home that is not only beautiful but also functional and compliant with local regulations. Meredith Amon has extensive experience in new construction home sales in Orange Beach and Ono Island. While Meredith offers general knowledge of new construction requirements, her greatest strength lies in recommending the best builders and contractors in the area. These experts will ensure that your home is constructed with the highest standards of craftsmanship, using the finest materials available for coastal living.

With her guidance, you’ll be able to select a team of professionals who are not only familiar with the challenges of building in Coastal-A and V-Zones, but who also specialize in delivering superior quality and attention to detail.

Conclusion

Building a new home in Orange Beach or Ono Island offers the opportunity to create a luxurious, custom-designed space that fits your lifestyle. However, the coastal location requires extra attention to detail, especially in terms of flood protection, wind resistance, and overall durability. By working with Meredith Amon, a real estate advisor specializing in new construction, you’ll be connected with the best builders and contractors who can ensure that your home is built to the highest standards.

If you’re ready to start your new construction journey in Orange Beach or Ono Island, Meredith Amon is here to help you achieve your real estate goals.

Meredith

Posted by Meredith Amon on October 30th, 2024