Property Search & Homesite Evaluation
Where you build is as important as what you build
Finding the Right Homesite Is the First Step
Before you design the perfect custom home, you need to find the right place to build it
In addition to decades of homebuilding experience, we also own and operate Charter Bay Real Estate LLC, a licensed brokerage that specializes in helping clients find the right property to build their custom home on. Whether you’re looking to purchase a buildable lot, vacant land/acreage, or even a potential tear down opportunity, we can help you find it.
And if you already own land, great. You’re one step ahead!
In either case, before we begin designing your home, we’ll conduct a comprehensive site evaluation to identify any potential challenges early on. We’ll assess everything from zoning, to site dimensions and setback requirements, to site access and available utilities. We’ll uncover any site-specific limitations, including easements, tree preservation rules, flood zones, or historic district restrictions that could potentially affect your build. If applicable, we’ll assist with HOA or Architectural Review Committee guidelines and can help facilitate variance requests when needed.
Beyond code and compliance, we’ll evaluate every homesite with an experienced custom home builder’s eye. We’ll assess each property not just for market value, but for how well it supports the type of home you want to build. We’ll consider soil conditions and elevation changes, which can significantly impact foundation costs and water management. We’ll also evaluate the property’s orientation so your home can be designed to take full advantage of natural light, enhance privacy, capture views, and improve energy efficiency. All these factors affect not just how your home looks, but how it will live and perform over time.
Whether you’re still searching for the right location or need guidance on building on a property you already own, we bring deep experience and practical insight to help you make informed decisions from the ground up.
FAQs
A buildable lot is a piece of land that meets all legal, zoning, and site-specific criteria for building a home. This includes access to utilities, proper zoning for residential use, and compliance with setback and elevation requirements.
Not necessarily. Just because a property is for sale doesn’t mean it’s ready to build. Factors like flood zones, wetlands, soil conditions, easements, and lack of utility access can prevent or complicate construction.
The best way is to work with a builder or real estate professional who understands local land use regulations and construction requirements. At Charter Bay, we conduct thorough homesite evaluations to determine whether a lot is truly buildable before you buy.
That’s great—you’re one step ahead. But a site evaluation is still crucial before the design process begins. We’ll help uncover any challenges and confirm the property is suitable for your vision and budget.
Raw land is untouched, undeveloped property that may not have access to roads or utilities. Vacant land is land with no structures but may be improved or partially developed. A buildable lot meets zoning and site criteria that make it suitable for residential construction. Not all raw or vacant land is buildable.
Yes. As a licensed real estate broker and custom home builder, we specialize in helping clients search for land specifically suited for custom home construction. We understand what to look for—and what to avoid.
Yes. We custom-design homes to fit the specific size, slope, orientation, and characteristics of your property—maximizing light, views, privacy, and usability.
We’re experienced in navigating HOA guidelines, Architectural Review Committee requirements, and local historic preservation rules. We’ll help you understand what’s possible and how to proceed with the design and approval process.
Yes. Our homesite evaluations include a preliminary review of potential grading, clearing, fill, utility installation, and access requirements, all of which will factor into your overall estimate to build.
We recommend identifying and evaluating the land before designing your home. The characteristics of the lot—its shape, slope, sun exposure, and setbacks—will influence how and what you can build.
We focus on Hillsborough, Pasco, and Hernando Counties. We have deep knowledge of the local zoning codes, development trends, and neighborhood nuances that can influence your project.
Question not answered here? Reach out and we’d be happy to answer any questions you may have.