For sophisticated buyers, the decision often narrows down to three primary, high-end lot types. At Gulfstream Homes, we understand that selecting the right location is the single most important choice you will make. We’ve broken down the pros and cons of these three options to help guide your initial homesite selection.

Working Directly with Gulfstream Homes’ Founders

A unique benefit of choosing Gulfstream Homes is the unparalleled access and expertise you receive. Unlike larger, production builders, Gulfstream Homes clients work directly with the company’s founders. This direct involvement ensures that your vision is executed with a deep level of personal accountability, over 25 years of local market knowledge, and an established commitment to superior quality and integrity from the very beginning of your lot selection process.

The Pinnacle of Prestige: Waterfront Living

Naples is synonymous with its shimmering coastline and vast waterways. Choosing a waterfront lot is choosing unmatched prestige and direct access to the best of Southwest Florida. For the most exclusive property in Naples, the luxury threshold is constantly being redefined. In prestigious areas like Port Royal, the median listing price for all homes is currently soaring to over $ 24.9 million.

Core Selling Points (Pros)

• Unmatched Prestige and Views: Direct Gulf or Bay views, particularly the spectacular Naples sunsets.
• Boat Access: Essential for yacht owners, offering deep-water access to the Gulf of Mexico.
• Strong ROI/Resale: Waterfront property maintains enduring value and appreciation, establishing a powerful legacy asset.

Priority: Waterfront Lot Appeal

• Deepwater Gulf Access: Essential for yacht owners and serious boaters (e.g., Port Royal, Aqualane Shores).
• Coastal Views & Investment: Maximizing sunset views and strong appreciation in core beach/bay areas.
• Walkability: Proximity to Olde Naples, Fifth Avenue, and the beach.

Key Considerations (Cons/Challenges)

The complexity of building on the water demands expert partnership.

• Higher Costs & Insurance: Expect a premium price per square foot for the land itself, plus significantly higher flood and wind insurance.
• Maintenance: On-going maintenance of seawalls, docks, and the impact of salt air on materials.
• Construction Restrictions: Navigating stringent regulations like the Coastal Control Line and specific permitting in areas like Port Royal and Old Naples.

The Resort Life: Golf Course Communities

For those who desire a meticulously manicured, amenity-rich environment, a homesite within one of Naples’ premier gated golf communities offers a resort-style existence right from your own front door. These exclusive enclaves—including highly sought-after locations like Grey Oaks, Quail West, Talis Park, and Fiddler’s Creek—provide perpetual, flawless green vistas and immediate access to world-class clubs, dining, beach clubs, and spa facilities.

Core Selling Points (Pros)

• Resort-Style Amenities: Access to world-class golf, clubhouses, spas, and fine dining.
• Security & Gated Living: Enhanced privacy and peace of mind within a secure, managed environment.
• Lush, Manicured Views: Perpetual, flawless green vistas are maintained by the community.

Priority: Golf Community Lot Appeal

• Bundled vs. Equity Membership: Understanding the financial structure of the community lifestyle.
• Resort-Style Amenities: Access to multiple courses, private clubs, spas, and dining.
• Privacy & Security: Benefits of a protected, gated environment with managed landscaping.
• Immediate Community: Built-in social network for a seamless transition to Naples life.

Key Considerations (Cons/Challenges)

• Mandatory Fees: Committing to mandatory HOA fees and often substantial club membership fees (equity or bundled).
• Rules & Regulations: Living under strict community rules/regulations governing architecture, landscaping, and lifestyle.
• Less Privacy: Fairway exposure can mean less seclusion than other options; potential noise from tee times and course maintenance.

The Ultimate Retreat: Private Acreage

For the luxury client whose vision requires space, freedom, and seclusion, a private acreage parcel offers the opportunity to create a true, unrestricted estate compound.

Core Selling Points (Pros)

• Ultimate Privacy: Vast setbacks and lower density ensure unparalleled tranquility.
• Unlimited Customization: No HOA means complete freedom in architectural design and landscaping.
• Space for Luxury Features: Room for a separate guest house, equestrian facilities, agricultural, sports courts, or large private collections.

Priority: Private Acreage Appeal

• Estate Living & Freedom: Ability to build large-scale compounds with no strict HOA limitations (e.g., The Estates).
• Customization Flexibility: Space for private collections, tennis courts, or guest houses.
• Future Development Potential: Acquiring land for long-term hold and expansion outside of the immediate coastal density.
• Lower Density Lifestyle: Trading proximity to the beach for space and tranquility.

Key Considerations (Cons/Challenges)

• Commute: Expect a longer drive to the beach, fine dining, shopping, and cultural centers.
• Infrastructure: Homes often rely on well/septic systems, requiring expert assessment.
• Assessment: Requires thorough flood zone and wetland assessment, as well as checking limited municipal service availability.
• Status: A less established “status” compared to the world-renowned addresses of Port Royal or Old Naples.

Lastly, many sophisticated buyers recognize the unparalleled value of executing a tear-down and custom rebuild within an existing, highly desirable neighborhood. It is important to note that if a client already owns a lot with an existing house on it, remodeling or renovating that existing location is always a valuable option that the Gulfstream Homes team can expertly assess and execute.

In Southwest Florida, this strategy offers two main advantages: securing a prime, irreplaceable location and achieving total design freedom. Unlike building in new developments that may be costly and further from urban cores, a tear-down allows you to capitalize on existing infrastructure and mature landscaping while delivering a completely modern, cohesive home—a customized structure free of any outdated or half-renovated sections.

Advantages of a teardown in your favorite neighborhood

• Location, location, location:You can keep your home in a highly desirable, established neighborhood.
• Customization:A teardown allows you to build a brand-new home tailored to your exact needs, from the layout and size to high-end finishes and specific features, that a remodel or new construction elsewhere may not offer.
• Modern, resilient construction:You can build a home that meets current, stricter building codes for energy efficiency and hurricane resistance, including features like impact-resistant windows and better insulation.
• Long-term savings:New construction is generally more energy-efficient, which can lead to lower utility bills. Furthermore, building a stronger, modern home may lead to lower insurance costs compared to an older home on the property.

Choosing the right homesite extends far beyond lifestyle preferences. It includes intensive due diligence on zoning restrictions, soil composition, elevation, and complex permitting issues that can derail a project before it starts. The costliest mistake in custom home building is selecting the wrong land.

Gulfstream Homes’ value is not just in designing and constructing a world-class residence, but in vetting the land and navigating the most complex regulatory landscapes in Naples. We specialize in understanding the nuances of the Coastal Control Line, the limitations of historic Olde Naples parcels, and the specific municipal requirements in estates and communities. We ensure that the canvas you choose can, in fact, support the masterpiece you envision—long before the first shovel hits the dirt.

Ready to discuss which homesite option aligns with your vision for the ultimate Naples lifestyle? Contact Gulfstream Homes to schedule a confidential consultation. Our local expertise ensures your custom home journey begins with the perfect, fully vetted foundation.

The post Which Lot Type is Best for Your Florida Custom Home? first appeared on Gulfstream Homes.

Janie and Mike Yag’s unbridled enthusiasm for a French equine breed leads to the creation of Shore Acres Farm, a sublime environment for both humans and horses

 

A quote famously attributed to Sir Winston Churchill claims, “There is something about the outside of a horse that is good for the inside of a man.” That adage proved true seven years ago for Neapolitans Janie and Mike Yag, each coping with the recent loss of a parent. “Janie was depressed, and so was I,” Mike reflects. 

Recalling his wife’s fond memories of being around horses as a young girl living in Nova Scotia, Canada, Mike suggested she saddle up at a nearby stable, hoping it would lift her spirits. She returned home, he says, “smiling from ear to ear. They say horses are great therapy, and that’s what this ride was for Janie.”

The following week, Janie signed up for riding lessons on a Selle Français called Quaker de Kreisker. After four sessions, she leased the 14-year-old bay gelding but was determined to own him. “I became very possessive,” she admits. “I didn’t want anyone else to ride him; I wanted him to be my horse.” 

That acquisition ignited the Yags’ love affair with the Selle Français (which translates to “French saddle”), a breed renowned for its show-jumping ability. A few months later, they traveled to France, where the horses are bred and where they purchased three more at the Agence Fences Elite Auction in Fontainebleau, under the guidance of esteemed international broker Jean Fourcart.

Unable to find a local boarding facility for their foursome that met their needs, they contemplated moving to Wellington, Florida—“The mecca of the equestrian world,” Janie remarks—but decided to stay in Naples and build their own farm instead. They put their home in the Seagate neighborhood on the market, purchased a 47-acre tract of land in Golden Gate Estates and, over time, acquired the surrounding parcels for a total of 84 acres.

The couple harnessed the talents of Steve Peel, co-founder of Gulfstream Homes in Naples, to help execute their vision. “When I first saw the property, it was just a cow field, and I don’t think they even knew at the time what it would turn into,” he recalls.

What resulted is the Yags’ 4,800-square-foot, four-suite contemporary farmhouse and 53-acre equestrian facility, collectively known as Shore Acres Farm. The name is an homage to the similarly deeded site of their former oceanfront carriage house in Narragansett, Rhode Island, where they wed in 2014.

Home on the Range

Working closely with Peel, the Yags tapped into their considerable design expertise—Mike’s in architecture and space planning as founder of a trade show exhibit company and Janie’s from her studies at the Rhode Island School of Design—to create the plan for their home, which was completed in January 2020. The goal was an open-yet-cozy layout that offered vistas of the farm from every room. Mission accomplished.

Mahogany and glass French doors, faithfully replicated from the Seagate home, open to a capacious, light-filled great room, where the couple spend most of their time. The comfortable space, anchored by a floor-to-ceiling stacked-stone hearth, is furnished in soft earth tones accented with the shade of blue in the Shore Acres Farm logo. “We wanted a light palette to highlight the colorful antique posters throughout the house,” Mike says.

Among their collected works is a circa-1902 lithograph of Australian cancan dancer Saharet that was shielded from Adolf Hitler’s plan to seize fine art and cultural treasures for a Führermuseum. As Mike recounts, “The original owner hid the poster, along with his extensive art collection, in a barn on his farm in Germany. Most of the art was destroyed in a fire, but our Sarahet poster was one of the few items that wasn’t damaged because she was in the middle of a stack of other fine pieces.”

Adjacent to the great room, a bright, open kitchen and towering wall-width bar complete the main living area. A wall of 10-foot-tall folding glass doors leads from there to an expansive covered lanai, creating a seamless space for entertaining up to 30 guests. The gathering spot is replete with an inground pool and spa, half bath, outdoor kitchen, quartz-top island bar, dining area, gas fireplace, and flat-screen televisions. “This is where everybody who comes to see us spends all their time,” Janie says.   

“We wanted our home to feel comfortable when it’s just the two of us but also keep the same ambience when having family and friends here,” Mike adds. Visitors include the pair’s combined six children, ranging in age from 31 to 40, and four grandchildren, who have their choice of three en-suite guest rooms bedecked in a crisp white aesthetic. A spacious primary suite with a luxe spa-like bath provides a tranquil retreat for the owners, whose personalities match the warmth of their surroundings.

A Stable Environment

As they were designing their farmhouse, the Yags also focused on creating a state-of-the-art equestrian facility, touring properties in Wellington and throughout France for layout and design inspiration.

Janie took the reins on equestrian-related matters, researching the highest-quality hay and feed, stall flooring, barn ventilation, fly-spray systems, automatic waterers, arena footing, paddock fencing, and other critical components—a daunting task for one new to the horse business. “It’s almost better when you don’t know what you don’t know because you learn the correct way,” she says, adding, “I asked the right people to find the best.”

The Yags commissioned Morton Buildings in Port Charlotte to create the storage and equine-associated structures—including three barns with a total of 48 generously sized stalls—made to withstand a category 5 hurricane. Today, the barns house the couple’s two- to three-dozen horses, mostly Selle Français (the figure fluctuates based on births and sales), as well as those owned by boarders, which number around 24 in season.

The pristine, chandelier-crowned barns feature air-conditioned rider lounges and tack rooms, kitchenettes stocked with snacks and cold beverages, laundries, and bathrooms with showers, as well as other amenities not often found in equestrian boarding facilities. To wit, Wi-Fi pipes in soft rock and country music 24/7.

Forty-two 5,000-square-foot fenced paddocks provide the horses plenty of room to roam and graze. Equestrians can hone their skills in a 14,500-square-foot open-air covered arena and a smaller competition-size outdoor arena—both equipped with jumps, a 5-acre natural riding area, and private and semiprivate trails.

“It’s an impressive facility,” says Gulfstream Homes’ Peel, whose company also handled the build-out of the barns and storage structures. “As a home builder, we don’t often have the opportunity to be involved in something so complex.”

Dual Horsepower

Janie’s passion for the horses is perhaps equaled by Mike’s enthusiasm for his impressive car collection. His favorites include a 2022 Aston Martin DBS Superleggera Volante, a 2024 Porsche 911 Turbo S, and a 2024 Porsche 718 Spyder RS. “I have horses, and he has horsepower,” Janie quips.

The automobiles are housed in an immaculate garage, which sits adjacent to an enviable man cave—a handsomely appointed 1,400-square-foot, one-bedroom apartment where Janie and Mike lived while their home was under construction. That space is presently occupied by trainer and professional rider Jennifer Olsen. General manager Jesus Arguello and his family also live on-site in a 2,100-square-foot home.

A 2,000-square-foot, three-bedroom guest apartment above the 18-stall barn previously housed French Grand Prix champion Tony Cadet and his wife and daughter. The longtime head trainer, professional rider, and world-class competitive show jumper for Shore Acres Farm recently returned to France with his family to continue training young horses from there.

While Shore Acres Farm provides an idyllic home for the Yags and their team, as well as a first-rate boarding facility for their riding clientele, it is undeniably dedicated to the comfort and care of its equine residents—a concept reflected in the tagline: It’s All About the Horse. As Mike sums up: “We love our riders and team members, but we owe everything to the horses because they give us so much.” 

The post Shore Acres Farm is a Mane Attraction first appeared on Gulfstream Homes.

According to a recent survey conducted by Discover Home Loans, more than 50% of millennial and Gen Z homeowners have home improvements in process or plan to start a project within a period of about three months.

Additionally, a whopping 82% of Gen Z and millennial homeowners say they plan to improve their homes as a form of investment. If your home needs significant repairs or alterations, you may be wondering whether you should just start from scratch. Here are some simple guidelines to help you decide.

Should I Tear Down My House and Rebuild or Remodel It?

It’s clear that home improvement is a common goal for most homeowners. But deciding whether to remodel or completely rebuild is a daunting task for many people. Luckily, there are several factors that will help guide your decision-making.

Keep these five considerations in mind when answering the question, “Should I tear down my house and rebuild or remodel?”

1. What Changes Need to be Made?

It’s important to consider what kind of changes need to be made to your house to determine whether a rebuild or remodel is best. If you’re looking to make relatively minor repairs, changes, or additions, a remodel is probably best.

On the other hand, if you’re unhappy with major aspects of your home and want something completely different, a rebuild is probably the way to go. Also, many older homes face structural integrity issues that may not be apparent to everyone. Undesirable floor plans, construction materials, or site orientation are other reasons to consider tearing down.

2. What Is Your Budget?

Your budget plays a big role in the decision to rebuild or remodel. Rebuilding your entire house will have a much steeper upfront cost. Conversely, remodeling your home can be done in stages to help spread out the costs.

Remodeling also tends to be less expensive overall. However, this is highly dependent on the extent of the remodeling.

3. Where Do You Want to Stay While the Work Is Done?

During a complete rebuild, you will have to find other living accommodations during construction. However, you can most likely remain in your home during remodeling.

4. What Is the Condition of the House?

Your home’s foundation and overall structure must be strong to support major remodels. If your foundation is in poor shape or your house has major structural issues, rebuilding is usually the best option.

5. What Are Your Local Zoning Laws?

Are you dreaming of a three-story enclave to take advantage of a gorgeous view? Or perhaps an ultra-modern palace with sleek lines and glass walls? Well, your local zoning regulations dictate what can and cannot be done on your property, and homeowners association bylaws can affect your design choices. Check your local zoning and permit regulations to determine:

• What projects you need a building permit for
• If there are any restrictions regarding house height or size
• If there are any restrictions regarding what types of houses can be built

It’s important to remember that rebuilding a home will almost always require more permits and be subject to more zoning restrictions than remodeling.

When to Consult with Professionals

No matter what your level of comfort is with choosing a rebuild or remodel, it’s crucial to get a professional opinion. At Gulfstream Homes, our vast experience in remodeling and rebuilding in Southwest Florida can help determine which option is best for you and bring your Florida home wishes to life. Give us a call today to schedule a custom consultation.

The post Remodel a Home vs. Teardown: 5 Things to Help You Decide first appeared on Gulfstream Homes.

Here’s how to evaluate a home floorplan in four easy steps.

Step #1: Focus on Floorplans You Like

If you find yourself not loving open floorplans, then design experts advise focusing on the layouts you do like. You may desire a more segmented home, with dedicated enclosed spaces for more privacy, or you may gravitate toward a two-story home that provides the space you need for your family’s needs. No two homeowners are alike, which is why choosing what’s “in” right now may not be the right choice for you. Establish your needs and style preferences, then find the floorplan that works in tandem with these particular needs and design requirements.

Step #2: Consider the Size of the Space

You may have found the ideal lot for your home; however, in order to maximize size, you may have to build up so that you’re able to have a bigger backyard. On the flipside, you may want to take advantage of the space and build out, so that all of the rooms in your home reside on one floor. The size of your space will help dictate the layout of the home. In addition to square footage, you’ll also want to consider the following:

• How many bedrooms/bathrooms do you need?
• Will you require a home office space?
• Would you prefer having a separate guest suite?
• How big of a kitchen do you require?
• Is a large outdoor living area a must for you?

In establishing what size space you need, it will help you evaluate your floorplan options to maximize this space accordingly.

Step #3: Don’t Forget Your Budget

Setting a budget is imperative so that you’re able to build a home that works with your financial needs. Keep in mind that different floorplans come with different prices, which means that budget should be a contributing factor in your ultimate decision. You don’t want to choose a floorplan that doesn’t fit into your budget, as this may require you to make compromises on other aspects of your home later.

Step #4: Keep Your Future Needs in Mind

Maybe you’re looking to start a family soon, which means you’ll need more space, or maybe you’re looking to retire in this home. This means that you’ll need to make sure the space will work for you as you age. The floorplan you choose should meet your requirements for the future, as well as the present, so keep this important factor in mind when you’re evaluating your options.

When you want to ensure you’re happy with your floorplan, keeping these steps in mind is a good practice. Here at Gulfstream Homes, our team wants to help you build the perfect home in Southwest Florida! Call (239) 254-1664 or visit www.gulfstreamhomes.com to learn more.

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The post Evaluating a Home Floorplan In 4 Easy Steps first appeared on Gulfstream Homes.

What is Smart Home Technology?

Automate and monitor your home by pairing your tech gadgets to the Internet and be able to take control. Smart home technology is utilized in many applications, ranging from basic functions, such as:

• lights

• temperature

• music

to more advanced aspects of the home, such as:

• security systems

• kitchen appliances

• showers and sinks

and the list is only growing. Utilizing smart apps which are connected to devices, like your smartphone or tablet, allows homeowners to have a better grasp of what’s going on at home, without even being there.

Benefits of Smart Home Technology

Not only does smart home technology give homeowners peace of mind when away from the home, it also has some other surprising benefits. Smart home technology allows for more energy efficiency, as lights and temperature can be better controlled and appliances, which are connected to smart apps, are operated with less energy. By conserving energy, this also saves homeowners money by lowering energy bills.

Homeowners also have more control with just a touch of a button. Forget to turn the lights off when you left the house? Want to turn the temperature down after you’ve left for work? It’s a simple fix with smart home technology. Another important benefit of adopting smart home technology in your home is safety. New tech devices can alert fire and rescue if a fire breaks out or alert homeowners to dangerous levels of carbon monoxide in the home. Stay safer by implementing smart home technology apps and devices in your home.

Smart Home Technology & Your Home

Here in Southwest Florida, homeowners want to be able to protect their property, while having the ease and convenience of being taken care of in the home. By being able to control entertaining features, such as lights and music, homeowners are able to host guests with ease, and with the ability of advanced security and voice activation, homeowners can feel more secure, especially if they are alone in the home.

Smart Home Technology & the Future

The future of technology is exciting. With more and more apps and clever devices being invented each year, the opportunities are seemingly endless when it comes to outfitting your home with the very best tech features on the market. Protect your home, have peace of mind and enjoy life more with smart home technology. The future is here…and it’s bright. The time to embrace technology in the home is now.

At Gulfstream Homes, we’re excited to get started on your custom home in Southwest Florida! Call (239) 254-1664 or visit www.gulfstreamhomes.com to learn more.

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The post The ABC’s of Smart Home Technology first appeared on Gulfstream Homes.

Home Positioning

Perhaps one of the most exciting decisions is figuring out where you want your home to be positioned on the Island. If you’re an avid boater, you may be interested in finding a lot on the water, so that you can take advantage of your own private dock. You’ll also want to take advantage of our famous Southwest Florida sunsets, so configuring your outdoor living space and lanai appropriately is key. Many Marco Island residents opt for Western-facing lanais, so that they can enjoy our beautiful sunsets to the fullest. Since Marco Island is home to such breathtaking views, many homeowners also opt for walls of glass in the living areas to provide them with the unmatched views of the Island.

Seawall Maintenance

Due to Marco Island’s low-lying placement, flooding is a concern and precautions need to be in place in order to minimize risk. Climate change has caused water levels to rise through the years, eroding the seawalls, making the need for periodic maintenance necessary. If the tide remains high for any amount of time, Marco Island is impacted, but with regular monitoring of the overall structure of the seawalls, it’s easily kept under control.

Rules & Regulations

Like any area, Marco Island has its own set of rules and regulations when it comes to building on the Island. Permits will need to be pulled and fees will need to be handled. Your builder will bring you up to speed on what you’ll need to be prepared for when building on Marco. Accessory structures will need to be permitted, such as:

• Detached garages

• Screened-in cages and lanais

• Fences

• Pools

• Boat lifts

So, depending on what “extras” you want to include in your home, you’ll need to decide the proper permits and fees that go along with them.

Your Marco Island Builder

Since there are so many details to consider when building on Marco Island, it’s best to find a builder who has experience with building on the Island. This makes it much easier when dealing with permitting issues and other Marco Island-specific regulations. Having a builder on your team who builds on Marco gives you peace of mind, knowing that all of the details are taken care of correctly.

Your Marco Island Home

There’s no doubt about it…Marco Island is pure paradise. From the stunning views to the tranquil waters, this quaint community emanates island leisure. So, sit back, relax and enjoy your very own piece of paradise on Marco Island.

The team at Gulfstream Homes is proud to build on Marco Island and is ready to get started on your project! Call (239) 254-1664 or visit www.gulfstreamhomes.com to learn more.

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The post What to Consider When Building on Marco Island first appeared on Gulfstream Homes.

After 20 years of building in Collier County, Gulfstream Homes is excited to launch into the Marco Island and Isles of Capri regions of Southwest Florida. The venture is headed by long-time partner, Gregory David, who plans to utilize the team’s talent, experience and commitment to build beautifully-designed waterfront homes. With stunning views, clear waters and a remarkable ocean breeze, Marco Island is the perfect place to call home. The experts at Gulfstream Homes are ready to help interested clients choose the right lot and design the home that fits their needs.

Gulfstream Homes (www.gulfstreamhomes.com) pairs cutting-edge technology with innovation and building science to create the most sought-after homes in Southwest Florida. Utilizing Green building practices and the latest breakthroughs in home design, Gulfstream Homes takes home building to another level. Providing clients with the highest standard of communication during the building process and always embracing new and improved techniques, Gulfstream Homes is one of the most trusted On Your Lot builders in Southwest Florida.

Co-Founder, Michael Peel, speaks about the chance to expand their relationships in the Marco Island/Isles of Capri areas.

“As a custom home builder, we take great pride in all of our homes, from the initial consultation and design sessions through the entire construction process. We are excited to expand into this beautiful area of Southwest Florida and look forward to helping many clients build the perfect homes in paradise,” he says.

To learn more about available floor plans, pricing packages and more, please visit www.gulfstreamhomes.com/on-your-lot-marcocapri/.

About Gulfstream Homes

Since 1998, Gulfstream Homes has been utilizing top level technology, project management tools, design and innovation to create the very best homes in Southwest Florida. With attention to detail and long-term partnerships with the construction industry’s best providers, Gulfstream Homes ensures exceptional and timely workmanship. From On Your Lot building to remodels, Gulfstream Homes is a top choice for building and design in Southwest Florida.

For more information about Gulfstream Homes, please call (239) 254-1664, email info@arcs-gh.com or visit www.gulfstreamhomes.com.

The post Gulfstream Homes Expands Luxury Custom Building Services to Marco Island first appeared on Gulfstream Homes.

Building Out

Building out is when you increase the footprint of the ground-floor level of the building. When you build out in your home you’re not adding another story like you would if you were to build up. You’re mainly increasing space horizontally.

Since both projects are huge decisions to make, we’ll help you figure out where to start with the benefits and limitations of each:

Benefits:

• Least disruptive-

Building out offers less disruption to your home life since you’ll be able to live in it while it’s under construction.

• Cost flexibility-

Increasing ground level space can be less costly but depending on where you go with the build out, prices can potentially become a match with the cost of building up.

Limitations:

• Loss of yard space-

Building out means that you’ll be taking away some yard space and this could cause complications. Depending on your town, you may face certain limitations or have to deal with strict permitting issues to build your ground level addition.

Building Up

Building up is another great way to add space and personality to your home. Building up not only allows you to expand upwards but you can also add to an already existing second floor. You can build up by adding living space over a garage, porch, sunroom or one-story wing. If you decide to build up, you won’t have any loss of yard space but you will have to deal with county or city limitations. Many cities put a limit on how much height you can add to your house. Make sure to check the building codes in your state before you start.

Benefits:

• Adding a second story can capture more views.
• Square footage will be maximized.
• You can locate all bedrooms on a single level if you choose.

Limitations:  

• Increased inconvenience and cost-

More than likely you’ll probably have to vacate your house for up to six months while it’s under construction. It’s important to factor in the cost of finding a place to stay in the meantime and the cost of expenses, such as food.

• Weather-

Depending on where you live, the weather can play a huge factor as to whether or not building up is a good idea. For example, two story houses in Florida are more at risk for damage from hurricanes, tropical storms and other weather related scenarios.

If you’re having a hard time making the decision as to build up or build out, meet with a contractor to get some ideas flowing. Your contractor can help you design and build an addition that suits your needs. The experts at Gulfstream homes can’t wait to get started on your project. Call 239-254-1664 or visit gulfstreamhomes.com to begin today.

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The post Building Up or Building Out: The ABC’s of Building an Addition on your Home first appeared on Gulfstream Homes.

Here’s your guide to Golden Gate Estates living.

About Golden Gate Estates

Located south of Immokalee Road and east of Collier Boulevard, the 172-square mile stretch, known as Golden Gate Estates, began welcoming residents over 50 years ago. Mixing the great outdoors with suburban living, Golden Gate Estates quickly stole of the hearts of many Southwest Florida residents, looking for a piece of Naples to call their own. Located close to Picayune Strand State Forest and other beautiful Florida favorites, Golden Gate Estates has its many perks that draw more and more residents to the area each year.

The Perks of Golden Gate Estates Living

For those looking to have a bit more freedom from the many rules of homeowner associations, Golden Gate Estates may be the place for you. There are many amenities, not found in other areas of Southwest Florida, including the ability to own two large animals per acre of property, like horses, llamas and alpacas. If you’re interested in the great outdoors, the hiking trails are plentiful. Picayune Strand State Forest offers two distinct trails, while Belle Meade Horse Trail provides over 65,000 acres of exploring. But perhaps the most coveted perk of living in Golden Gate Estates is the abundance of privacy not found in many other Naples neighborhoods.

Golden Gate Estates Homes & Lots

There are a variety of lot sizes and home types in Golden Gate Estates, ranging from small, single-family homes to larger, more ornate mansions. Many lots range from one to five acres, but some can go up to ten acres, and many homeowners choose to incorporate various upgrades to their properties, including:

• Pools
• Spas
• Guest houses
• Garages

ATVs and RVs are found on many properties as well. And many of the streets in Golden Gate Estates are dead end streets that end at a canal, perfect for those wanting that extra level of privacy.

Living in Golden Gate Estates

If you’re looking for a place that offers flexibility and privacy, Golden Gate Estates may be for you. Many homeowners gravitate toward this area for the sheer opportunity to customize their lot and build the perfect home for their needs. Golden Gate Estates is also in close proximity to some of the newest schools in Collier County, a library, fire station and shopping, which adds convenience to everyday life. Golden Gate Estates truly is a hidden Southwest Florida gem and we invite you to see it for yourself. It may just be the slice of paradise you’ve been looking for!

Our experts are ready to start building your Golden Gate Estates home. Call (239) 254-1664 or visit www.gulfstreamhomes.com for more information.

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The post Your Guide to Golden Gate Estates Living first appeared on Gulfstream Homes.

Plant Selection

Selecting plants that thrive in our area is key in long-term success of your landscaping. Choose plants that are well-suited to life in Southwest Florida and can withstand the elements that are thrown their way. It’s important to choose plants that are a match with our ecosystem and don’t use excess water. Match your plant choices based on light, water needs and wind conditions. Choosing the wrong type of plants can end in disappointment as some varieties can’t withstand the heat and some may topple over with strong winds.

Watering & Fertilizing

After choosing the perfect plants for your home’s yard, it’s time to care for these living organisms. Overwatering is a common problem for homeowners in Southwest Florida and needs to be addressed first. Not only does overwatering deplete our water supply, it also raises the cost of your monthly water bill. It’s a common practice that if rain is predicted within 24 hours or if it has rained in the last 24 hours, that watering your plants is not necessary. Also, keep in mind our dry winter months as oftentimes, restrictions are placed upon watering as shortages may occur.

Fertilizing your plants at the correct time and with the right amount of fertilizer is imperative as using too much fertilizer can lead to run-off that may affect local wildlife and waterways. Also, fertilizing your landscaped yard correctly helps to avoid excessive growth and unwanted pests.

Wildlife vs. Pests

There’s a fine line between wildlife you want in your home’s backyard and pests that you don’t. It’s important to encourage the presence of bees and birds, as many have been pushed out of their natural environments by the increased building in our area. Plant berry bushes or add in a couple of bird feeders to draw in some helpful insect-eating guests. Be sure to apply low-toxicity pest control to help plants stay healthy and free of disease.

Functional Landscape Design

Keep in mind what you want to accomplish with your home’s landscape design. Do you just want to plant a few trees and plants for aesthetics or are you looking for them to be functional? We have an abundance of sunshine here in Naples, Florida, so it’s important that your landscaping helps your home to stay shaded. Many homeowners enjoy the idea of privacy and what better way than to plant some beautiful tall trees surrounding the property?

Keep these important details in mind when you’re designing your home’s landscaping, so that it works with our Southwest Florida ecosystem:

• Choose plants that work with our sub-tropical climate and weather elements.
• Water and fertilize correctly, as to not negatively affect the area’s wildlife.
• Choose landscaping based on your needs and vision.
• Be mindful of pests and take measures to keep your plants healthy.

Are you ready to build the perfect home and finish it with the ideal backyard? Our experts are ready to help. Call (239) 254-1664 or visit www.gulfstreamhomes.com.

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The post Your Guide to Landscape Design in Naples, Florida first appeared on Gulfstream Homes.