Bankrate's most recent report on the Fort Myers real estate market paints a slightly confusing picture. While the company states that buyers aren't facing high competition, they also note that inventory and sales have dipped significantly this summer.
For homeowners, now is a better time to upgrade your existing property than to sell and buy something new. If you've always dreamed of owning a home with a fence, it's time to start researching fence installation.
We're here to share seven key fence planning tips to help you along the way. Read on to learn everything you need to know about successful fence installation.
One of the most important things homeowners need to know is that residential fencing is regulated by the Fort Myers local government.
In other words, you can't go into your yard and build a fence anywhere you see fit or with any materials you have on hand. You need to meet regulations related to:
For example, you can't build a fence taller than six feet or use materials like barbed wire in residential areas. You will need to check with the Lee County Building Department to make sure your fence is 100% compliant. You'll also need to apply for a fencing permit from the City of Fort Myers.
We've talked to homeowners who want to take a DIY approach to fence installation. In fact, we've worked with homeowners who need professional help fixing DIY problems.
Generally, homeowners attempt DIY fence installation because they assume it will save them money by eliminating the cost of labor. What they don't account for are the hidden costs of the DIY approach, which can include:
DIY fence installation doesn't yield accurate estimates, guarantee regulatory compliance, or come with a warranty. In the end, it tends to cost more than professional work.
Before you break ground, you'll need to plan out the design of your fence. We like to start this process by discussing what our clients want most from their new fence. Common answers include:
There is no right or wrong answer here. By starting with your must-have design features, we can ensure that all other design choices help you achieve your fence installation goals.
Next up in our residential fencing guide is your choice of fence materials. We only use materials that are both permitted and recommended for use in the Fort Myers climate. These materials include:
Each material suits a different purpose, so keep your must-have design qualities in mind. For example, aluminum fencing is a top choice in Fort Myers because of its durability and versatility. We recommend aluminum fencing for homeowners who are looking to keep pets in and keep large pests like deer out.
Wood, on the other hand, is a great choice for homeowners looking to increase privacy. The best way to select the best material for your fence is to consult with professionals about the pros and cons of each choice.
Even when you're building a fence for personal use, you may still have an eye on property value. According to HomeLight, landscaping upgrades like a new fence have the potential to increase property value between 1 and 10%.
There are two things we encourage homeowners to consider when talking about property value: durability and maintenance. Buyers are often willing to pay more for features that are designed to last and won't require a lot of time or money to maintain.
High-quality aluminum and vinyl fencing tend to rank highest on our list of durable, low-maintenance fencing materials. Both provide high levels of rust and UV resistance, two important qualities in a high-humidity region like Fort Myers.
We know what you're thinking at this point: what about curb appeal? When it comes to significant exterior structures like residential fencing, aesthetics are nearly as important as practical qualities.
Start by evaluating your home's architectural style and features. Here in Fort Myers, we see everything from Victorian homes to contemporary properties, and there's a fence style for each of them. For example, black aluminum fencing can be made to look like wrought iron, which goes great with older styles.
Next, consider your home's dominant color scheme. Mirror your craftsman trim in a natural wooden fence or bring out the vibrant color of your shutters with your vinyl or aluminum fence finish. The goal is to create a cohesive design that looks original to the house.
Last but not least of our fence planning tips, you need to find the right fence installation company for the job. Narrow down your options by looking at:
Remember, fence installation can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks to complete. Make sure you're partnering with a company you trust and who respects your input. Your fence installation company should feel like a partner, not the boss.
Now is a great time to upgrade your existing property here in Fort Myers. If fence installation is what you need to turn your house into your dream home, this guide will help you navigate the process.
Revolution Fence Co. has been a top-rated fencing company in Fort Myers since our founding in 2015. If you want to work with professional, hardworking builders who treat every client like family, you're in the right place. Contact us and let's start planning your perfect fence together.
