Frequently Asked Questions
FAQ's
Our FAQs page is designed to provide quick answers to common questions about our services, building process, design options, and more. Whether you're curious about our construction timeline, materials used, or specific requirements like flood zone regulations, this page offers clear and concise information to help guide you through your journey with Luxury Homes of SWFL. Explore our FAQs to find the answers you need and make informed decisions with confidence
General Questions
Why Luxury Homes of SWFL?
Choosing Luxury Homes of SWFL as your builder means partnering with a team dedicated to creating exceptional homes tailored to your vision. With our commitment to quality craftsmanship, attention to detail, and deep knowledge of local building codes and standards, we ensure a seamless and stress-free building experience. Our expertise in designing homes that reflect the unique charm of Southwest Florida, combined with our personalized service, guarantees a home that is not only beautiful but built to last. Trust us to bring your dream home to life with unmatched dedication and care.
Construction Process & Expectations
1What is the typical timeline from permitting to move-in?
On Marco Island, permitting typically takes about 4 to 6 weeks. In Naples, the process can range from 1.5 to 4 months depending on the location and project scope. Once permits are approved and we break ground, construction usually takes between 10 to 14 months in both areas, depending on the size and complexity of the build. We keep you updated every step of the way with a clear schedule and regular progress reports.
2Do I need to own the lot before building starts?
Yes, the lot must be in your name before we can begin construction. We’re happy to assist with evaluating potential lots before you purchase to ensure they’re a good fit for your desired home.
3Can I customize one of your existing floor plans?
Absolutely. We are a full custom home builder, and our plans can be modified to suit your needs. As long as the design fits within the lot’s zoning and setback requirements, we’ll tailor the floor plan to match your vision and lifestyle.
4What is included in your base pricing versus upgrades?
Our base pricing includes high-quality features and finishes that most builders consider upgrades. To see what’s included, we recommend visiting our model home and reviewing our current feature sheet. This gives you a clear understanding of what’s standard and what optional upgrades are available.
5Do you handle architectural design or work with outside architects?
Yes, we handle all architectural design in-house through our trusted design partners. If you already have plans from an outside architect, we can review them, but it’s important that they’re available to make changes if needed to meet city or county requirements.
Design & Customization
1Can I choose all my finishes and fixtures?
Yes. You’ll have full control over all selections and finishes. You can choose from our in-house showroom, visit one of our trusted local showrooms, or work with your own interior designer. We’re here to support your design vision and can offer suggestions along the way if needed.
2Are energy-efficient or hurricane-rated upgrades included?
Yes, we include many energy-efficient features as part of our standard build. For hurricane protection, all homes come with impact-rated glass as required by city, county, and state codes. For additional options like shutters or impact screens, please speak with our sales team. You can also refer to our feature sheet for full details.
3Do you offer smart home or automation options?
We do. We partner with reputable home automation specialists who can install smart lighting, security, climate control, and more based on your preferences.
4Can your homes be made ADA accessible or age-in-place friendly?
Yes. We can design your home with accessibility features such as wider doorways, no-step entries, walk-in showers, and other ADA-compliant elements upon request.
Land & Lot-Specific
1Can I build on a corner or pie-shaped lot?
Yes. These lots often require a custom design approach to meet zoning and setback requirements. Our team will ensure your home fits both your lot and lifestyle.
2What are the minimum lot sizes for your plans?
Our plans typically start at 80 feet by 110 feet, which is the standard lot size on Marco Island. If your lot is smaller or irregular, we can evaluate it and recommend the best approach.
3Can you clear or prep my lot before we build?
Yes. Lot clearing and basic prep are included in our services. If the property requires demolition of an existing structure, we can coordinate that as well for an additional fee.
4Is a survey included in your process?
Yes. We include all necessary surveys during the planning phase. We always conduct our own surveys to ensure the most accurate and up-to-date information is used for permitting and design.
Regulatory & Environmental
1Are there building restrictions near canals or the Gulf?
Yes. Building near waterfront areas may involve additional requirements based on flood zones, velocity zones, and environmental factors. We are experienced in navigating these regulations and will guide you accordingly.
2What is the elevation requirement for new homes on Marco Island and in Naples?
Elevation requirements vary by zone. We use the latest FEMA flood maps to determine the required base elevation for each lot. On Marco Island, for example, if your lot is in an AE8 zone, we build to a minimum of 9 feet as required by city code.
3How do you handle FEMA requirements for flood-prone lots?
We follow all FEMA guidelines as well as city or county codes. Our team will ensure your home is designed and built to meet the proper base flood elevation and any additional requirements that apply to your specific lot.
4Do you help with city approvals or variance applications if needed?
Yes. We handle all permitting and city approvals in-house, including variance requests when necessary. You won’t need to worry about paperwork or follow-ups, we take care of it all.
5We have owls or gopher tortoises on our lot, can we still build?
If there are owls or tortoises on your lot, we can assist with managing these situations in compliance with local wildlife regulations. Owls can often be relocated with a permit, provided their nest is not in season or active with young. For gopher tortoises, which are a protected species, relocation requires a specific permit and must follow state guidelines. Our team will help navigate these processes to ensure your project moves forward smoothly while respecting local wildlife and environmental laws.
Localized Buyer Questions
1Do you build year-round or seasonally?
We build year-round in both Marco Island and Naples..
2Do I need to be local during construction?
No, you don’t. We work with many out-of-state and international clients using a system called Buildertrend, which allows you to follow along with every phase of the project remotely.
3Can I track progress remotely?
Yes. With Buildertrend, you’ll have access to real-time updates, progress photos, change orders, and schedule milestones. We also upload drone photography to give you a full view of your home as it’s being built.
4Do you offer pool and landscaping packages?
Yes. All of our homes include a standard pool and landscaping package. Customizations are available and can be tailored to your exact preferences. Please refer to our feature sheet for more information on what's included.
Financial & Contracting
1Do you offer fixed-price contracts or cost-plus?
Yes, we primarily work with fixed-price contracts to provide clarity and stability throughout the build. In some cases, we’ve also worked under a cost-plus structure depending on the client’s needs and the nature of the project.
2What deposit is required to begin the building process?
We require a 5% deposit based on the total build cost to begin the construction process. This secures your project in our schedule and allows us to move forward with planning and permitting.
3Are construction loans required, and do you assist with that process?
Construction loans are not required, but many clients choose to use them. We’re happy to refer you to trusted local lenders and banking partners familiar with the custom home process in Marco Island and Naples. We also work with clients who are self-funding their projects.
4How do progress payments work during the build?
We follow a draw schedule based on key construction milestones. Our team will walk you through the payment stages in detail during the planning process to ensure transparency and comfort every step of the way.
5Do you include impact fees and permit costs in your contracts?
Yes, our contracts include all standard impact fees and permit costs unless otherwise specified. For a detailed breakdown of what’s included, please visit our feature sheet page or stop by our model home for a full overview.
Warranties & Aftercare
1Do your homes come with a builder’s warranty
Yes. We provide a one-year builder’s warranty along with a third-party bonded 2-10 warranty, offering two years of systems coverage and ten years of structural coverage.
2What is your process for handling post-completion punch lists?
We schedule a final walkthrough with you to identify any outstanding items. Depending on the scope of work, these are resolved promptly and efficiently before final closing.
3Can I schedule a walkthrough before final closing?
Yes. We always perform a detailed homeowner walkthrough prior to closing to ensure you’re satisfied and that everything is in perfect order.
4Do you help with city approvals or variance applications if needed?
Yes. We handle all permitting and city approvals in-house, including variance requests when necessary. You won’t need to worry about paperwork or follow-ups, we take care of it all.
Still Have Questions?
Let’s talk about your build or review your lot.
Guides and Resources
MARCO ISLAND NATIVE PLANT LIST
The Marco Island Native Plant List, required by local code, ensures that new landscaping incorporates native species that thrive in the island's unique environment. These plants support local wildlife, promote sustainability, and maintain the natural beauty of Marco Island. Following this list helps protect the island's ecosystem while enhancing the aesthetic appeal of each property.
EXPAND NATIVE PLANT LIST
Marco Island Plant List
| CITY OF MARCO ISLAND NATIVE PLANT LIST | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| TREES - LARGE | |||
| NAME | COASTAL ZONE | MID ZONE | INLAND ZONE |
| Bald Cypress (Taxodium districuum) | X | X | X |
| Fiddlewood (Citharexylum fruitcosum) | X | X | |
| Gumbo Limbo (Bursera simaruba) | X | ||
| Hackberry (Celtis laevigata) | X | X | X |
| Jamaica Dogwood (Piscidia piscupula) | X | ||
| Laurel Oak (Quercus laurifolia) | X | X | X |
| Live Oak (Quercus virginianna) | X | X | X |
| Mahogany ( Swientenia mahogoni) | X | X | |
| Mastic (Mastichodendron foetidissimum) | X | X | |
| Native Fig (Ficus aurea) | X | ||
| Paradise Tree (Simarouba glauca) | X | ||
| Red Maple (Acer rubrum) | X | X | X |
| Royal Palm (roystonea elata) | X | X | |
| Seagrape (Coccoloba uvifers) | X | X | |
| Slash Pine (Pinus elliottii) | X | X | X |
| Sweet Gum (Liguidambar styraciflua) | X | X | X |
| Sycamore (Platanue occidentalis) | X | X | X |
| West Indian Laureicherry (Prunus myrtifolia) | X | ||
| Wild Tamarind (Lysiloma latisiliguum) | X | X | |
| Willow Bustic (Dipholis salicifolia) | X | X | |
| Wingleaf Soapberry (Sapindus saponaria) | X | X | |
| TREES - MEDIUM TO SMALL | |||
| NAME | COASTAL ZONE | MID ZONE | INLAND ZONE |
| Black Ironwood (Krugiodendron ferreum) | X | X | |
| Blolly (Guapira discolor) | X | ||
| Cabbage Palm (Sabal Palmetto) | X | X | X |
| Dahoon Holly (ilex cassine) | X | X | X |
| East Palatka Holly (hex attenuate) | X | X | X |
| Florida Elm (IJimus Americana) | X | X | X |
| Geiger Tree (Cordia sebestena) | X | ||
| Magnolia (Magnolia grandiflora) | X | X | X |
| Milkhark (Drypetes diversifolia) | X | ||
| Pigeon Plum (Coccoloba diversifolia) | X | ||
| Satin Leaf (Chrysophyhlum oliviforme) | X | ||
| Scrub Hickory (Carya floridana) | X | X | X |
| Scrub Live Oak (Quercus geminate) | X | X | X |
| Simpson Stopper (Myricianthes fragrans) | X | X | X |
| Sohiderwood (Colubtina elliptica) | |||
| SHRUBS - LARGE ("B" BUFFERS) | |||
| NAME | COASTAL ZONE | MID ZONE | INLAND ZONE |
| Bahama Strongbark (Bourreria Ovata) | X | ||
| Black ironwood (Krugiodendron ferreum) | X | X | |
| Buttonwood (Conocarpus erectus) | X | ||
| Catciaw (Pithecellobium ungruis-cati) | X | X | |
| Cinnamon Bark (Canella winterana) | X | ||
| Cinnecord Acacia (Acacia choriophylla) | X | X | |
| Crabwood (Ateramnus lucidus) | X | X | |
| Darling Plum (Reynosia septentriolalis) | X | ||
| Florida Privet (Forestiera segregate) | X | X | ? |
| Golden Dewdrop (Duranta repens) | X | X | |
| Jamaica Caper (Capparis cynophallophora) | X | X | |
| Maiden Bush (Savia bahamensis) | X | ||
| Myrsine (Myrsine floridana) | X | X | ? |
| Pigeon Plum (Coccoloba diversofolia) | X | ||
| Paurotis Palm (Acoelorrhaphe wrightii) | X | X | |
| Red Berry Stopper (Eugenia confuse) | X | ||
| Seagrape (Coccoloba iivifera) | X | X | |
| Wild Lime (Zanthoxylum tagara) | X | X | |
| Simpson Stopper (Myrcianthes fragrans) | X | X | X |
| Spicewood (Calyptranthes spp.) | X | ||
| Walters Viburnum (Viburnum obovatum) | X | X | X |
| Wax Myrtle (Myrica cerifera) | |||
| Yellow Elder (Tecome stans) | X | X | ? |
| SHRUBS - MEDIUM TO SMALL | |||
| NAME | COASTAL ZONE | MID ZONE | INLAND ZONE |
| Bay Cedar (Suriana maritime) | X | ||
| Blackbead (Pithecellobium guadalupense) | X | X | |
| Coco Plum (Chyursysobalanus icaco) | X | ||
| Cordia (Cordia globosa) | X | ||
| Firebush (Hamelia patens) | X | X | |
| Florida Privet (Forestiera segregate) | X | X | ? |
| Golden Dewdrop (Duranta repens) | X | X | |
| Jamaica Caper (Capparis cynophallophora) | X | X | |
| Leather Fern (Acrosticham danaeaefolium) | X | X | |
| Maiden Bush (Savia bahamensis) | X | ||
| Myrsine (Myrsine floridana) | X | X | ? |
| Necklace Pod (Sophora tomentosa) | X | ||
| Saw Palmetto (Serenoa repens) | X | X | X |
| Sea Oxeye Daisy (Borrichia trutescens) | X | ||
| Seven Year Apple (Casasia Clusiifolia) | X | ||
| Silver Saw Palmetto (Serenoa repens “Cinerea”) | X | X | X |
| Spicewood (Calyptranthes spp.) | X | ||
| White Indigo Berry (Randia axculeate) | X | X | |
| Wild Coffee (Psychotria riervosa) | X | X | |
FEMA FLOOD MAP
The Florida FEMA flood map is a critical tool used to assess flood risks and establish building requirements based on elevation levels. It designates areas at different flood risk levels, helping homeowners and builders understand potential flood hazards. Elevation levels on these maps indicate the height above sea level at which properties must be built to minimize flood damage. Higher elevations generally mean lower flood risk, influencing insurance rates and building codes to ensure safety and compliance with FEMA guidelines. On Marco Island, the building code requires that homes in flood zones be constructed to meet or exceed specific base flood elevation (BFE) levels, with an additional requirement of being at least 1 foot above the BFE. This ensures properties are adequately protected against flooding risks and compliant with FEMA regulations. Understanding these maps and codes is essential for informed decision-making and safeguarding properties.
MARCO ISLAND LOT & BLOCK MAP
The Marco Island Lot and Block Map is an interactive mapping tool that provides detailed parcel information for properties across Marco Island. This map allows users to view lot and block numbers, property boundaries, zoning details, and geographic data, making it an essential resource for homeowners and builders. Whether you're planning a custom build, researching land availability, or exploring the area's layout, this tool offers a clear and comprehensive view of property divisions in Marco Island.