newer builds in great neighborhood? No commuting needs (Miami, Orlando: townhouse, neighborhoods)

[Sick of SFla]

Hi all: did a search but couldn't find answer to my question. We're a 50s couple, no kids, planning on early retirement or part time work starting in the next couple of years, but still very healthy/young at heart with a lot of energy. My screen name says it all - we gotta get out of SFla - we both grew up there and are ready for something else. We're looking at Orlando, NC, Nashville as possibilities.

I'm specifically looking for highly-rated Orlando-area neighborhoods that hold their value well, with strong/newer post-Andrew code construction - and ideally a selection of smaller homes or townhomes that could be a good fit for empty-nestors - maybe 300-375k budget. Could go a bit higher if necessary.

Family neighborhoods are fine - or younger, or older or mixed ages. But definitely want well-cared for neighborhoods, nice, friendly, civil neighbors and high odds of good resale value.

I don't think rest of Fl matches Miami-Dade building codes, but thinking a newer built community would likely be safer from a hurricane perspective than where we live now - 1985-era fairly cheap starter home. Irma freaked us out big time - I don't think our house could even stand up to a cat 2 or 3 frankly and either way, I don't want to live right on the coast anymore.

Since I work at home and we're looking at early retirement soon, work commute isn't really an issue - but fairly easy driving distance to shopping, restaurants, some fun nightlife is important.

Any recommendations you can share would be most welcome!

[MyITGuy]

I'd suggest the Hamlin/Horizon West area of Winter Garden personally. Lake Nona is host to a few newer developments, otherwise you can also check out Dr. Phillips, while not as new is still somewhat recent if I recall correctly.

Just as FYI - You may get a stronger building code, but nothing compared to Miami-Dade's post-andrew code (I.E. I believe Miami-Dade requires hurricane/impact windows/doors where Central Florida does not).

[bmw335xi]

Windermere has a lot of new construction that has more affordable options in your price range

[Sick of SFla]

Thanks to you both...will start to look at listings in those areas.

[kyle19125]

I'd suggest the Heathrow-Sylvan Lake-Lake Forest-Wekiva Retreat area in Seminole County just to the northeast of Orlando. Though not a specific concern it's in one of the top few school districts in the state, which consistently drives demand along with appreciation. There's plenty of shopping and activities nearby plus the added benefit to many of a good bit less traffic congestion than the many touristy sections of Orlando.

https://www.zillow.com/homes/for_sal...e_11qbj8_crid/

[chopchop0]

Originally Posted by MyITGuy

I'd suggest the Hamlin/Horizon West area of Winter Garden personally. Lake Nona is host to a few newer developments, otherwise you can also check out Dr. Phillips, while not as new is still somewhat recent if I recall correctly.

Just as FYI - You may get a stronger building code, but nothing compared to Miami-Dade's post-andrew code (I.E. I believe Miami-Dade requires hurricane/impact windows/doors where Central Florida does not).

No need for that kind of code in Orlando either imo

[MyITGuy]

Originally Posted by chopchop0

No need for that kind of code in Orlando either imo

Why not? What parts do you think shouldn't apply to Orlando?

In my opinion, its just common sense to utilize building practices that encourage safety, and in some cases energy efficiency, especially when builders/contractors are likely cutting corners and inspections are not being performed as they should be. A quick look at this form (Florida) on concrete pads cracking/splitting due incorrect PSI or installation and tile cracks reinforces this.

[chopchop0]

Originally Posted by MyITGuy

Why not? What parts do you think shouldn't apply to Orlando?

In my opinion, its just common sense to utilize building practices that encourage safety, and in some cases energy efficiency, especially when builders/contractors are likely cutting corners and inspections are not being performed as they should be. A quick look at this form (Florida) on concrete pads cracking/splitting due incorrect PSI or installation and tile cracks reinforces this.

I just don't see Orlando getting a direct cat 4-5 hit. Seems like overkill

[MyITGuy]

Originally Posted by chopchop0

I just don't see Orlando getting a direct cat 4-5 hit. Seems like overkill

The Miami-Dade building code doesn't account for a direct cat 4-5 hit either, hence my question on what particular issue(s) you think shouldn't apply to Orlando.

[chopchop0]

Originally Posted by MyITGuy

The Miami-Dade building code doesn't account for a direct cat 4-5 hit either, hence my question on what particular issue(s) you think shouldn't apply to Orlando.

I thought it did...My bad