February 16, 2023 | Island Pineapple Realty

Beachside Fixer-Upper

Beachside Fixer-Upper

So You Wanna Buy an Old Beach Home?

Ok, I’ll admit it. I’m a complete sucker for an older renovated beach home. However, buying and transforming a beachside fixer-upper is not for everyone. Here are some things to consider if you are looking for your fixer-upper on the Island.
 
Many of these fixer-upper homes on the beach are old. and unlike fine wine, they don’t get better with age. In these 1950-60s concrete bunkers, it’s common to find plenty of old plumbing and electrical systems. like cast iron drain lines, slab leaks, ancient fire-hazard electrical panels, and even the occasional cloth wiring. Many have original single-pane windows and sticky sliding glass doors that require the old broomstick in the track security system.
 
For some buyers, the vintage style and layout of these homes are nostalgic and for others it’s cringeworthy.
 
These older beach homes are notorious for shorter 8-foot ceilings, small bathrooms, tiny closets, and closed-off floorplans.
 
But wait, there’s more! Sparkly popcorn ceilings, smelly carpet, wood paneling, dated fixtures, Formica counters, your grandma’s chandelier. But hey, you may be lucky to find salvageable terrazzo flooring hidden underneath that smelly carpet – if you know, you know.
 

Now for the Good News!

The majority of these homes are solid concrete block structures that have stood the test of time. With these block homes, most interior walls are non-load bearing and reconfiguration of layout is entirely possible. Open floor plan? Check. Renovated kitchen? Check. Renovated bathrooms? Check. Busted bank account? Check.
 
Homes on the Island sell for the highest price per square foot in the county. Why are people willing to pay some of the highest prices per square foot in the whole county for an older, higher-maintenance home?
 

It’s All About That Island Life Baby

The Space Coast is still one of the most affordable ocean-to-river communities in the state of Florida – the ocean for surfing in one direction and being close to the river on the other side. Fisherman and boaters paradise.
 
Summer can be HOT here but that ocean breeze provides relief. Small-town feel with residents deeply rooted in the community. A slower pace of life – ride your bike, scooter, skateboard, one-wheel, or bare feet around town.
 
There’s no better place to #LoveWhereYouLive

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