If you’re planning a move to Florida’s Forgotten Coast, one of the most important decisions you’ll face is whether to buy a spec home or build a custom home. Families in Wakulla and Franklin County often weigh the convenience of a ready-to-move-in house against the flexibility and long-term value of a home built specifically for their needs Both options come with pros and cons. The right choice depends on your timeline, lifestyle, budget, and long-term goals. This guide breaks down the differences so you can make the best decision for your family.

Learn where to begin when building your dream home on the Forgotten Coast—from land prep to permits, design, and choosing the right builder.

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When building a custom home in Wakulla or Franklin County, one of the most important decisions you’ll face is how to structure your building contract. At Forgotten Coast Construction, we offer both cost-plus and fixed price contracts—but which one is right for your project? Let’s break down the pros and cons of each to help you make the best decision for your dream home. ⸻ What is a Fixed Price Contract? A fixed price contract gives you a set total price for the entire build. This includes labor, materials, permits, and everything outlined in the plans and specs. Pros: • Price certainty – You know the full cost up front. • Easier budgeting – No surprises for your bank or lender. • Less involvement required – Good for out-of-town owners or busy professionals. Cons: • Limited flexibility – Changes after signing can result in costly change orders. • Higher initial estimate – Builders add a cushion for unknowns. ⸻ What is a Cost-Plus Contract? In a cost-plus contract, you pay for the actual cost of the build, plus an agreed-upon builder’s fee (a percentage or flat fee). Pros: • Full transparency – You see every invoice and expense. • Potential savings – If material costs drop or plans change, you benefit. • Custom flexibility – Great for evolving plans or high-end finishes. Cons: • Cost variability – Your final price may fluctuate. • More involvement needed – You’ll be asked to approve costs and selections. ⸻ Which Contract Type is Best for You? At Forgotten Coast Construction, we typically recommend: • Fixed Price for homeowners who want a clear budget and don’t plan to make big changes. • Cost-Plus for custom builds with premium finishes or evolving plans—especially when the homeowner wants input on every detail. We work throughout Crawfordville, St. Marks, Carrabelle, and the surrounding Forgotten Coast, and our team can help you choose the right contract based on your goals, timeline, and budget. ⸻ Ready to Build Your Coastal Dream Home? Whether you’re building on acreage near the St. Marks Wildlife Refuge or a beach lot in Carrabelle, choosing the right contract is key to a smooth and successful build. Contact Forgotten Coast Construction today to schedule a consultation and discuss your options. Let’s bring your vision to life—on your terms.

Get a clear breakdown of custom home building costs in Wakulla County. Learn what impacts price per square foot and how to plan your budget.

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The Best Time to Build a Custom Home on the Forgotten Coast Building a custom home on the Forgotten Coast is an exciting journey, but timing plays a crucial role in ensuring a smooth construction process. Whether you're dreaming of a beachfront retreat or a cozy inland home, understanding the best time to build can help you save money, avoid delays, and take advantage of optimal weather conditions. Seasonal Considerations Spring & Summer: Peak Building Season Spring and summer are the busiest times for construction along the Forgotten Coast. With warm temperatures and longer daylight hours, builders can work efficiently, and materials tend to dry faster. However, this season comes with higher demand for contractors and materials, potentially increasing costs and extending project timelines. Fall: A Great Balance Fall is often an ideal time to start building a custom home. The weather is still mild, humidity levels decrease, and the risk of hurricanes diminishes. Additionally, contractors may have more availability, and material prices can be more stable compared to the peak summer season. Winter: Off-Season Advantages While winter months bring cooler temperatures, the Forgotten Coast typically experiences mild winters compared to other parts of the country. This off-season period can be beneficial for budget-conscious homeowners, as contractors may offer more competitive pricing and faster project timelines due to lower demand. Hurricane Season & Weather Challenges The Forgotten Coast is no stranger to tropical storms, with hurricane season running from June to November. Starting construction before or after this period can help minimize weather-related delays. If you're building during hurricane season, working with a builder experienced in storm-resistant construction techniques is essential. Material & Labor Availability The availability of materials and skilled labor can fluctuate throughout the year. Planning your build around times when demand is lower ”typically late fall and winter”can help ensure better pricing and more reliable scheduling. Your Ideal Timeline Planning & Design (3-6 Months Before Construction) Work with architects to finalize plans Obtain necessary permits and approvals Secure financing Site Preparation & Foundation (Early Fall or Winter) Clear land, lay the foundation, and start framing Major Construction Phases (Winter to Spring) Roofing, electrical, plumbing, and interior work Final Touches & Move-In (Late Spring to Early Summer) Landscaping, interior finishes, and final inspections Build with Forgotten Coast Construction At Forgotten Coast Construction, we specialize in custom home building designed to withstand the coastal environment while meeting your unique vision. Whether you're ready to start now or planning for the future, we will guide you through every step to ensure a seamless experience. Contact us today to discuss your dream home and find the perfect time to start building on the Forgotten Coast!

Unveiling the Optimal Construction Timeline Based on Weather, Market Dynamics, and Personal Preferences