According to a recent survey conducted by Discover Home Loans, more than 50% of millennial and Gen Z homeowners have home improvements in process or plan to start a project within a period of about three months.

Additionally, a whopping 82% of Gen Z and millennial homeowners say they plan to improve their homes as a form of investment. If your home needs significant repairs or alterations, you may be wondering whether you should just start from scratch. Here are some simple guidelines to help you decide.

Should I Tear Down My House and Rebuild or Remodel It?

It’s clear that home improvement is a common goal for most homeowners. But deciding whether to remodel or completely rebuild is a daunting task for many people. Luckily, there are several factors that will help guide your decision-making.

Keep these five considerations in mind when answering the question, “Should I tear down my house and rebuild or remodel?”

1. What Changes Need to be Made?

It’s important to consider what kind of changes need to be made to your house to determine whether a rebuild or remodel is best. If you’re looking to make relatively minor repairs, changes, or additions, a remodel is probably best.

On the other hand, if you’re unhappy with major aspects of your home and want something completely different, a rebuild is probably the way to go. Also, many older homes face structural integrity issues that may not be apparent to everyone. Undesirable floor plans, construction materials, or site orientation are other reasons to consider tearing down.

2. What Is Your Budget?

Your budget plays a big role in the decision to rebuild or remodel. Rebuilding your entire house will have a much steeper upfront cost. Conversely, remodeling your home can be done in stages to help spread out the costs.

Remodeling also tends to be less expensive overall. However, this is highly dependent on the extent of the remodeling.

3. Where Do You Want to Stay While the Work Is Done?

During a complete rebuild, you will have to find other living accommodations during construction. However, you can most likely remain in your home during remodeling.

4. What Is the Condition of the House?

Your home’s foundation and overall structure must be strong to support major remodels. If your foundation is in poor shape or your house has major structural issues, rebuilding is usually the best option.

5. What Are Your Local Zoning Laws?

Are you dreaming of a three-story enclave to take advantage of a gorgeous view? Or perhaps an ultra-modern palace with sleek lines and glass walls? Well, your local zoning regulations dictate what can and cannot be done on your property, and homeowners association bylaws can affect your design choices. Check your local zoning and permit regulations to determine:

• What projects you need a building permit for
• If there are any restrictions regarding house height or size
• If there are any restrictions regarding what types of houses can be built

It’s important to remember that rebuilding a home will almost always require more permits and be subject to more zoning restrictions than remodeling.

When to Consult with Professionals

No matter what your level of comfort is with choosing a rebuild or remodel, it’s crucial to get a professional opinion. At Gulfstream Homes, our vast experience in remodeling and rebuilding in Southwest Florida can help determine which option is best for you and bring your Florida home wishes to life. Give us a call today to schedule a custom consultation.

The post Remodel a Home vs. Teardown: 5 Things to Help You Decide first appeared on Gulfstream Homes.

Below we are going to look at 5 multi-use garage ideas.

1. Game Room

If you have a family that loves to spend time together by playing games or you are consistently hosting parties and gatherings, then a garage that doubles as a game room is a great option for your household. You can easily transform your garage into a game room space by customizing the flooring, walls, and ensuring it is properly insulated for comfort. Games that be included in your garage game room include:

•  Air Hockey
• Pool
• Foosball
• Ping Pong
• Arcade Games

2. Home Gym

For those people that are active and may not have the time to get to a gym, utilizing the garage space for a home gym can be an ideal way to use the space. Whether you want to add in a treadmill, yoga space, free weights, or several cardio machines, you will have the ability to customize the space to fit your needs.

Special flooring and mirrors can be installed in your garage in order to provide you with a full home gym that will allow you to simply walk out to the garage instead of having to drive all the way to the gym.

3. Bar and Lounge

A creative way to transform your garage into a multi-purpose space is to create a bar and lounge area in your garage. This can be as customized as you want by painting, adding new flooring, installing a built in bar, and bringing in lounge furniture.

A bar and lounge in your garage can provide an added space to spend time with guests and make the most out of your garage space.

4. Office Space

If you have run out of bedroom space to have an office in your home, then your garage can be utilized as the perfect space to add an office. You will want to ensure there is proper insulation for comfort if you plan to spend a lot of time in the garage. With the addition of new walls, different flooring, and office furniture, you can transform your garage space into the ideal office.

5. Art Studio

For someone that enjoys any form of art creation, the garage can be the ideal area to create an art studio. It can be used for painting, drawing, or pottery creation. By installing proper flooring and the needed equipment, many people will use the garage to have a quiet and relaxing space.

If you are looking to customize your garage as you build your new home, or redesign an existing garage to make it the ultimate hangout, then keep these ideas in mind. We want to help you build the perfect space! Call (239) 254-1664 or visit www.gulfstreamhomes.com to learn more.

The post The Multi-Purpose Garage: 5 Creative Ideas first appeared on Gulfstream Homes.

Keep It Coastal

Homes on Marco are accentuated by the feel of balmy breezes drifting effortlessly throughout the home, which is why many homes are outfitted with many windows to let the light shine brightly inside. Open spaces are key in Marco Island homes, as well as light and bright color palettes throughout, decorated with pops of vibrant color. Coastal design also makes good use of natural elements to add more depth and interest to the space. Consider adding the following coastal pieces into your home:

• Plant life
• Seaside accents (shells, coral, etc)
• Bamboo window treatments
• Linen draperies
• Sea glass décor

Coastal homes on Marco exhibit beachy, yet refined vibes, making them the perfect blend of coastal and contemporary paradise.

Go Bold with Patterns

Although many modern homes on the Island continue to stick to neutral tones throughout the major areas of the home, bold patterns are being seen more often to add more interest into the space. Everything from patterned wallpaper to accent rugs, artwork to backsplashes can be found accentuating Marco Island homes, giving them a beachy and eclectic feel.

Incorporate Rounded Furniture & Fixtures

Furniture is straying away from the boxy feel it showcased a few years ago, instead being replaced by more rounded pieces. Sofas, bathroom vanities, reading chairs, desks and many more elements are getting a makeover to appeal to what homeowners are desiring in their spaces.

Showcase a Hotel-Like Atmosphere

We’re already living in one of the most stunning places in the country, so why not design your home like you’re on vacation every day? More Marco Island residents are incorporating hotel-like trends in their home, including spa bathrooms, white linens and décor and a more minimalistic ideology to transform them into a true vacation space.

Marco Island Design

There’s no denying that Marco Island has a certain flair about it that you won’t find elsewhere. When you choose to take up residence here, you won’t be able to resist making your home into a tropical oasis in paradise. From indoor/outdoor spaces to clean, crisp design choices, your Marco Island home will be radiating with cozy, coastal vibes before you know it. It’s important to make your home work for you, and while many of these trends are highly adopted by islanders, it’s important to make the right choice for you. Keep in mind that by choosing a more timeless route with the overall design and leaving the trendy elements to aspects that can be easily changed is always highly recommended, so that you can enjoy your island home to the fullest for years.

Gulfstream Homes is excited to help you build your home on Marco Island! Call (239) 254-1664 or visit www.gulfstreamhomes.com to get started.

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The post Top Marco Island Interior Design Trends first appeared on Gulfstream Homes.

 A Dedicated Guest Suite

It’s so important for anyone to feel as though they have their own private space to relax and unwind. This is why it’s advised to design a guest suite into your home, especially if you’re planning on having waves of guests visit you in paradise. Depending on the space, you may be able to have a separate wing for your guests or maybe just a simple room with its private bathroom. Either way, this space should allow for maximum privacy, so that your guests can enjoy their time in your home without feeling as though they’re interrupting you with late-night catch-up sessions, and you’re not waking them up with early work meetings. Design the perfect guest suite by incorporating the following:

• A hotel-like atmosphere, complete with crisp linens and bed sheets.
• Refreshments, like water bottles and snacks.
• Toiletries in the private bath.
• Ample closet space.
• Plant life and calming aromatics

A Kitchen Built for Entertainment

It doesn’t matter what type of gathering you’re hosting, whether it’s just a couple of friends in town for the weekend or a larger gathering with all of your neighbors, everyone always ends up in the kitchen. Make your kitchen ideal for hosting guests with a wide-open space and plenty of room for guests to mingle and sit. Double islands are perfect for entertaining, as you’re able to present appetizers and drinks properly, while guests mingle about. You’ll also want a dedicated area to prepare food, so ample counter space is a must. If you need even more space, consider adding in a butler’s pantry, so that you’re able to prep food without getting in the way of your guests.

An Incredible Outdoor Oasis

When you live on Marco Island, chances are your guests are going to want to spend time outside, enjoying our temperate weather and balmy breezes. That’s why your outdoor living area should always be ready to welcome your guests. Plenty of seating, a pool and spa to relax, and even an outdoor kitchen can all be included in this popular space. Many homes here on Marco Island embrace what’s called indoor/outdoor living, so if that’s what you want to achieve, speak with your builder about ways to bring the outside in through features like sliding glass doors and large windows.

Marco Island Entertaining

When you’re entertaining on the Island, there’s no shortage of activities to partake in, but often times, your guests may just want to relax and enjoy your home. By keeping these key features in mind, you’ll be able to create an experience for them that they’ll always remember fondly.

Gulfstream Homes is excited to help you build the perfect home on Marco Island! Call (239) 259-8070 or visit www.gulfstreamhomes.com to learn more.

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The post Entertaining Guests in Your Marco Island Home first appeared on Gulfstream Homes.

#1: Impeccable Beauty

There is no doubt about it, Marco Island is absolutely breathtaking. From its sandy shores to the quaint shops that dot its downtown area, you’ll notice right away that the Island is special. Home to an abundance of natural preserves, as well as some of the best diving in the area, Marco Island’s beauty provides a variety of ways to stay active and happy on the Island. We recommend experiencing the following natural Marco beauties:

• Tigertail Beach
• Otter Mound Preserve
• Rookery Bay National Estuarine Reserve
• Ten Thousand Islands

When you want to enjoy untouched nature, Marco Island will simply astonish you.

#2: Exquisite Homes

When you move to Marco, you have an outstanding selection of homes to choose from, as well as waterfront lots to create your ideal home in paradise. Whether you’re seeking out a vacation condo or a home in a gated community, a new family home or an island oasis on the water, anything is possible on the Island. Building or buying your ideal home to enjoy the balmy breezes and tranquil temps is easy when you choose to make Marco Island your home.

#3: Enjoyable Activities

From lush nightlife to a day of pampering, you’ll find that Marco Island always has something going on to appeal to everyone. Whether you’re looking to wine and dine with friends for an evening or treat yourself to a spa day and lunch with the girls, the Island will deliver. With so many boutiques, restaurants, galleries, hotels, spas and more, there’s no shortage of things to do when you’re on the Island.

#4: Top-Notch Rankings

Not only does Marco Island rank among the best beach towns in the country, it also ranks high when it comes to education. For those moving to Marco with children, you’ll be happy to know that Marco Island is home to many top-rated schools. In addition to this, you’ll find a number of educational opportunities throughout, including the Marco Island Historical Museum and more.

#5: Tranquil Weather

Marco Island residents are able to enjoy an average of 266 days of sunshine every year, as well as comfortable temps all throughout the year, with the summer high of 90 degrees and winter low of 53 degrees…and of course, no snow of any kind, not even a dusting. If you’re searching for the right destination to call home, Marco Island and its beautiful weather can’t be beat.

Moving to Marco

When it’s time to finally bid adieu to snow, cold weather and seasonal depression, it’s time to make Marco Island your home. Whether you’re seeking out part-time refuge from the winter weather or you’re looking to relocate permanently, Marco Island just can’t be rivaled.

Gulfstream Homes can’t wait to help you create the perfect home on the Island! Call (239) 259-8070 or visit www.gulfstreamhomes.com to get started.

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The post 5 Reasons to Move to Marco Island, Florida first appeared on Gulfstream Homes.

Unveiling its model home last year, the builder reported unprecedented demand, with record sales in the Marco Island market. Adjusting its model home hours to by appointment only for several months, the builder is preparing for a busy season, helping more and more part-time and full-time residents build their ideal homes in paradise. Emanating sheer beauty, Gulfstream Homes’ Marco Island model showcases a bright open floorplan with large windows illuminating the space, as well as contemporary design throughout, accentuated with luxury furnishings and décor. This three-bedroom, three-bathroom home boasts 3,041 sq. ft. of living space, and perfectly encapsulates the essence of the Gulfstream Homes team and its capabilities.

Building homes to exceed expectations since 1998, Gulfstream Homes (www.gulfstreamhomes.com) has recently entered into the Marco Island area and has been met with high demand for its elegant homes. The team is not only well-versed in building on the Island and across Southwest Florida, they are also very prevalent in the community, participating in area events, charities and more.

Michael Peel, Co-Founder of Gulfstream Homes, speaks about the approaching season and what the team is expecting.

“The phones are ringing, car carriers are coming in, season is almost here and we’re looking forward to opening back up to the public on December 1^st. We are gearing up for an even busier season this year, and we can’t wait to help more clients create their perfect homes on the Island,” he says.

About Gulfstream Homes

Since 1998, Gulfstream Homes has been utilizing top level technology, project management tools, design and innovation to create the very best homes in Southwest Florida. With attention to detail and  long-term partnerships with the construction industry’s best providers, Gulfstream Homes ensures exceptional and timely workmanship. From On Your Lot building to remodels, Gulfstream Homes is a top choice for building and design in Southwest Florida.

For more information about Gulfstream Homes, please call (239) 259-8070, email info@arcs-gh.com or visit www.gulfstreamhomes.com.

The post Marco Island Builder, Gulfstream Homes, Ramps Up for Season, Re-Opening Its Model Home on December 1st first appeared on Gulfstream Homes.

Pool & Spa

Enjoy our steamy Southwest Florida days by taking a dip in your pool, relaxing and soaking up the sun. Nothing says island living quite like the right pool and spa combination. Whether you’re desiring a lap pool to help keep you in shape or a lavish infinity pool to showcase dazzling views and a feeling of endless water, no Marco Island home would be complete without some type of pool. Perfect for entertaining guests and cooling off from the summer heat, your outdoor living space just looks better with a pool.

Outdoor Kitchen

Speaking of entertaining guests, no one wants to miss out on what’s going on when you have company. The last thing you want is to be stuck inside the kitchen, preparing food, while your guests mingle outside. To remedy this, the outdoor kitchen comes in to save the day. Being able to cook and entertain at the same time, while enjoying pristine views, friends and family just can’t be beat.

Seating Areas

You’ll also want comfortable seating areas dotting your outdoor living area to really give the space a relaxing feel. Comfortable outdoor furniture, like plush couches and loungers, makes it easy to sit back and enjoy the temperate climate and tropical breezes. Plus, when you have visitors, there’ll be plenty of places for them to sit down and enjoy your island oasis. Consider adding in some sun protection as well, including a lanai roof, umbrella or motorized shades to provide some shade during our sun-filled days.

Extra Touches

Whether you’re entertaining guests or simply enjoying the space by yourself, creating the right ambiance is key. You’ll be able to set a relaxing mood for the space by incorporating the following:

• Water features
• Fire pits
• Ambient lighting
• Plant life

Chances are you’re going to be spending quite a lot of time in this space, so maximizing it to the fullest is highly recommended. You may also want to include entertainment areas, like space for bocce, pool, croquet or watching the game on the big screen. Remember, you can envision anything in this space to truly make it yours.

Your Marco Island Outdoor Living Area

This space is extremely special in any Marco Island home. Think about it, you’re living in one of the most beautiful places in the country with immaculate water views, wonderous sunsets and peaceful Gulf breezes, which means that your outdoor living area plays a key role in your home’s design. Make the most of this space by adding in the features that work for you, so that you’re able to enjoy this special place in the home each and every day. When you want to create the ultimate Marco Island home, nothing can do this better than a carefully crafted outdoor living area.

Gulfstream Homes is excited to help you build your ideal Marco Island home! Call (239) 259-8070 or visit www.gulfstreamhomes.com to learn more.

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The post Top Things to Include in Your Marco Island Outdoor Living Area first appeared on Gulfstream Homes.

Coastal Contemporary

Perhaps the most famous beach home style around, the coastal contemporary look continues to be a favorite for many types of homeowners. Bright and airy spaces, clean lines and a minimalist look are all key elements of coastal contemporary style, and if you want to seamlessly blend modernism with beachy vibes, this home style is perfect. Opt for windows throughout to enhance your Marco Island views, and incorporate high ceilings and an open floorplan to really make the space inviting. Coastal contemporary homes do a fine job of giving off that beach house ambiance, combined with the contemporary touches that we see in many homes across the country. Add in pops of blues, greens and yellows to really amplify the space and make it an enjoyable oasis to enjoy every day.

Southern Farmhouse

The modern farmhouse style is a crowd-pleaser all over the country, especially here in Southwest Florida. Beamed ceilings, wood details and a rustic charm throughout make the farmhouse home style a must for many looking to build or buy a new home. Take it a step further by adding in some coastal charm throughout, like light wood-look tile flooring, perfect to weather the elements, as well as staple southern enhancements, like wrap-around porches, columns and shutters adorning the exterior of the home. A classic look that’s not going away any time soon, the southern farmhouse style is a charming way to accentuate the beauty of the Island through your home.

West Indies Design

Reminiscent of the styles found in the British Virgin Islands, Barbados and Cayman Islands, the West Indies home style is becoming quite popular here on Marco Island as well. A mix of coastal contemporary and southern farmhouse, West Indies designs feature columns, louvered shutters and large expanses of sliding glass doors and windows throughout to perfectly capture the Island’s coastal ambiance. Stucco and siding intermingle to create the signature West Indies look, as well as metal roofing materials to add more modernism to this design. Tongue and groove, as well as herringbone patterns reign supreme, as do vaulted ceilings to really provide some serious style to the space.

More Popular Marco Island Home Styles

You’ll find a beautiful mix of homes on the Island, many of which feature the home styles mentioned above. While these are extremely popular, other styles you’ll see on Marco include:

• Mediterranean

• Cottage style

• Old Florida

• Modern minimalist

Whether you’re searching for the ideal island oasis or you’re seeking to build it from the ground up, choosing the right home style is imperative. From modern beachfront bungalows to timeless classic cottages, anything is possible when you’re living on the Island.

Gulfstream Homes is excited to help you build your ideal home on Marco Island! Call (239) 259-8070 or visit www.gulfstreamhomes.com to learn more.

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The post Popular Marco Island Home Styles first appeared on Gulfstream Homes.

The golf tournament is held every year, and is a popular Marco Island community event. Many community members and businesses show their support for the Marco Island Charter Middle School, joining one another on the course for a good cause. The Marco Island Charter Middle School is one of the top schools on the Island and beyond, performing above average in testing and student progress in the state of Florida. Students possess strong academic skills, which propel the charter school ahead of many others when it comes to academic growth. With over 377 students, this public charter school continues to benefit from the support that it receives from area donors, much like those who participated in this year’s summertime golf event.

Gulfstream Homes (www.gulfstreamhomes.com), a well-known Southwest Florida home builder, recently completed its model home on Marco Island, located at 201 S. Heathwood Drive, and has been a pillar in the local community throughout the years. The team has supported various programs, including Flags for Heroes, the Marco Island Yacht Club Youth Sailing Program, as well as the Marco Island Area Association of Realtors’ Scavenger Hunt, Christmas Island Style’s Annual Holiday Parade and more. Focusing on cutting-edge building techniques, modern home design and careful attention to detail, the Gulfstream Homes team has made quite an impact on Marco Island and beyond.

Michael Peel, Co-Founder of Gulfstream Homes, speaks about the team’s involvement in this, and many other, Marco Island events.

“For our team, Marco Island is home, and we want to show our support for our community any way we can. Through sponsorships, involvement in local organizations and overall support, we get to not only help our neighbors, but also get to know them as well. We enjoy this area and we try to give back as often as possible,” he explains.

About Gulfstream Homes

Since 1998, Gulfstream Homes has been utilizing top level technology, project management tools, design and innovation to create the very best homes in Southwest Florida. With attention to detail and long-term partnerships with the construction industry’s best providers, Gulfstream Homes ensures exceptional and timely workmanship. From On Your Lot building to remodels, Gulfstream Homes is a top choice for building and design in Southwest Florida.

For more information about Gulfstream Homes, please call (239) 259-8070, email info@arcs-gh.com or visit www.gulfstreamhomes.com.

The post Gulfstream Homes Sponsors Rotary Club of Marco Island’s Annual Golf Tournament first appeared on Gulfstream Homes.

Stunning Homes

One of the most important steps of your moving process will be to find a suitable home for yourself and your family. With so many options to choose from, you’ll be sure to find the perfect space, whether it’s in one of Marco Island’s prestigious gated communities or along the gorgeous white sand beaches. No matter if you’re looking for a home that’s already built or you’ve always wanted to design a home from the ground up, you have options. This is why it’s recommended to team up with a home builder with ties to the area, who has experience with building on the Island, so that your home meets all requirements and is designed in a way that maximizes your experience on the Island.

Top-Level Schools

Many families are concerned with relocating their children, especially when it comes to finding the best schools, and if you caught our last Marco Island blog post, you’ll find that Marco Island is home to a number of top-performing schools in the state. Not only do these schools have better student/teacher ratios compared to other schools in the area, students also perform well above the state averages in math and reading proficiency.

Awe-Inspiring Beaches

Moving to Marco Island means enjoying the exquisite sights and balmy weather everyday, as well as taking advantage of the legendary beaches. From the best shelling spots to the ultimate diving locations, Marco Island is home to tranquil breezes and serene waters all moments away from your doorstep. If you need a break unpacking, head to one of Marco’s amazing beaches for some sun therapy and relaxation.

Unbeatable Entertainment

Whether you’re newly retired or you’re looking to take the family out for a fun night, Marco Island has something to appeal to any age group. Enjoy a romantic date night at one of the fine dining establishments on the Island, or stroll around and browse through the many shops that line the streets. Other fun activities include:

• Marco Island Historical Museum

• Ten Thousand Islands Shelling Tour

• Fishing charters & dolphin watching

• Spa day at the J.W. Marriott Marco Island Beach Resort

Southwest Florida’s Best Kept Secret

The secret is out…Marco Island is the top place to be for families and vacationers alike, and with so many things to love about the Island, we don’t blame you for wanting to call it home. From the sophisticated homes to the brilliant beaches, grade A schools to all of the fun you can have in a day, Marco Island is truly special. When you’re relocating to the Island, get ready for a better way to embrace your Southwest Florida lifestyle.

Gulfstream Homes is excited to help you find or build the ideal home on Marco Island! Call (239) 259-8070 or visit www.gulfstreamhomes.com to get started.

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The post Moving to Marco: Our Ultimate Relocation Guide first appeared on Gulfstream Homes.