THE TRUTH ABOUT FLOOD ZONES AND INSURANCE ON ONO ISLAND

By Meredith Amon, Licensed in Alabama and Florida

When I talk with buyers about Ono Island, one of the first questions I often hear is, “What about flood insurance?” It’s a fair question — after all, this is a private island surrounded by the Intracoastal Waterway, Bayou St. John, and Old River. Living here is about embracing the water, but it also means understanding how flood zones and insurance play into the picture.

Flood Zones: What Buyers Need to Know

Every property on Ono Island falls into a flood zone, but not all zones are created equal. Some homes sit higher, on interior streets with added elevation, while others back right onto canals or the bay. The difference between an AE Zone and a VE Zone, for example, can mean thousands of dollars a year in insurance premiums.

I always advise buyers to pull the FEMA Flood Map and review the elevation certificate for any property they’re considering. On Ono Island, even homes just a few streets apart can have very different ratings. One neighbor may enjoy lower annual premiums, while another pays more because of their proximity to open water or because the structure was built before elevation requirements were updated.

Gold Fortified and Elevation: Game-Changers for Insurance

Insurance companies aren’t just looking at where the home sits — they’re also looking at how it’s built. Newer homes on Ono Island that are Gold Fortified or built with elevated stem walls often qualify for significantly lower rates.

I’ve walked buyers through homes where the difference in annual premiums was dramatic, simply because the property had updated building standards. If you’re planning new construction, choosing a higher elevation lot and investing in fortified construction can save you tens of thousands over the life of ownership.

The Real Cost of Ownership

It’s important to look beyond just the sales price. On Ono Island, ownership also means:

Flood Insurance Premiums – Required by most lenders if you’re in a flood zone (which almost every property here is).
Homeowner’s Insurance – Factoring in hurricane and wind coverage.
HOA Fees & Transfer Fee – $8,000 transfer fee at closing, plus annual dues, and membership at the Harriet Cockwell Center.

I’ve learned that buyers feel more confident when we lay all of this out up front. That way, there are no surprises when closing day arrives.

Stories From the Island

I’ll never forget standing with a couple on Shoalwater Drive, looking out over big water. They were in love with the idea of docking their boat just steps from the back porch. Their first question? “What’s the flood insurance going to look like?” After pulling the flood map and reviewing the elevation, we discovered the home’s smart construction kept the premiums surprisingly reasonable.

Moments like that remind me that flood insurance isn’t something to fear — it’s simply part of the equation of island living. And with the right knowledge, buyers can make smart, informed choices.

Why It Matters

At the end of the day, owning a home on Ono Island is about lifestyle — boating, sunsets, privacy, and the kind of Gulf Coast living you don’t find anywhere else. Flood zones and insurance are just one piece of the puzzle. What matters most is working with someone who knows how to navigate those details and explain them clearly.

As a homeowner on Ono Island and a real estate advisor specializing in this community, I make it my mission to help buyers understand not only the beauty of life here but also the practical side of protecting their investment.

Final Thoughts

When you’re buying on Ono Island, don’t shy away from asking about flood zones and insurance. In fact, lean into those questions. The answers will give you peace of mind and help you see the true cost — and the true value — of the home you’re considering.

Because at the end of the day, this isn’t just about risk. It’s about resilience. Ono Island homes are built to embrace the water, withstand the storms, and give you a lifestyle that’s worth every consideration.

If you’re curious about what flood zones mean for your dream property on Ono Island, I’d love to walk you through the details. Together, we can make sure the home you choose is not only beautiful but built for peace of mind.