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The Real Cost of Buying Vacant Land and Building a Home in Central Florida

Kristin Creegan

The Real Cost of Buying Vacant Land and Building a Home in Central Florida

What Buyers Don’t Realize Until It’s Too Late

Every week, we hear the same question:

“We found a cheap lot — wouldn’t it be more affordable to just buy land and build?”

On paper, buying vacant land and building a custom home in Central Florida sounds like a smart, economical move. In reality, it is one of the most misunderstood and financially risky paths for buyers who haven’t done deep due diligence.

This article breaks down the true timeline, costs, permitting hurdles, wetlands issues, and construction realities that buyers must understand before purchasing vacant land in Central Florida.

Why “Cheap Land” Is Rarely Cheap in Central Florida

In Central Florida, low-priced lots almost always have a reason:

Unlike other states, Florida wetlands are heavily regulated at the county, state, and federal levels.

The Hard Truth

If a lot looks “too cheap,” it is usually:

Wetlands: The #1 Cost Surprise for Buyers

What Are Wetlands?

Wetlands are protected ecosystems regulated by:

Even disturbing soil in a designated wetland can require permits.

Approximate Wetlands Mitigation Costs (Central Florida)

These are common ballpark figures we see — actual costs vary significantly by county and parcel.

It is not uncommon for wetlands mitigation to exceed $75,000–$200,000+ on a “cheap” lot.

In many cases, mitigation costs exceed the value of the land itself.

Permitting, Engineering & Pre-Construction Costs Add Up Fast

Before construction even begins, buyers typically must pay for:

Common Upfront Soft Costs

Many buyers spend $40,000–$80,000+ before breaking ground.

Construction Costs in Central Florida: The Reality

Construction pricing has permanently reset higher since 2020.

Typical Build Costs (2025 Market Estimates)

That means:

And custom builds:

Timeline: Why Builds Take 18–24+ Months

Typical Timeline Breakdown

Total timeline: 18–30 months is common

Delays are normal due to:

Financing Reality: Paying for Two Homes at Once

This is one of the biggest shocks for buyers.

How Construction Loans Work

The Hidden Cost

During construction, buyers often pay:

For 12–24 months.

This can easily mean $3,000–$6,000+ per month in combined housing costs before moving in.

When Buying Vacant Land Does Make Sense

Buying land and building can work when:

But it is rarely cheaper than buying an existing home — and often far more expensive.

Our Advice to Buyers Considering Vacant Land

At Creegan Group, we don’t discourage building — we believe in informed decisions.

Before buying vacant land, we strongly recommend:

  1. Environmental due diligence before closing

  2. Full cost modeling (soft + hard costs)

  3. Understanding financing realities

  4. Comparing against existing and new-construction homes

Many buyers who initially want land discover that:

Is faster, safer, and more affordable.

Final Thoughts: Knowledge Prevents Costly Mistakes

Buying vacant land in Central Florida is not a shortcut to affordability. More often, it is a path filled with:

If you’re considering land — talk to experts before you buy.

📞 We help buyers evaluate land before it becomes an expensive regret.
📩 Reach out to Creegan Group for an honest, data-driven analysis of your options.

Fill out the Contact Us Form below to receive our free vacand land guide.

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