Hurricanes Helene and Milton caused extensive damage to thousands of properties and the cost to restore them isn’t cheap, especially when homes must be rebuilt to the latest construction codes. So, many Floridians are opting to sell their storm-battered properties “as-is” rather than face the costly and lengthy process of repairs. For some, this decision means accepting significant financial losses but offers a way to start anew without the stress of rebuilding.

Part of the reason is the FEMA 50% rule, which states if the cost of repairs exceeds 50% of a home’s market value, the entire structure must comply with the most up-to-date building codes and standards. This presents a huge financial burden, one too big for most homeowners affected by the storms.

READ: FEMA 50% Rule Already Catching Some Homeowners Completely Off Guard

Ken Sulewski, a longtime Redington Beach resident, recently listed his gutted home, which took on over four feet of storm surge during Helene. “We’ve never flooded before,” Sulewski told Fox 13 News Tampa Bay. “But I don’t want it to happen again. I’m not prepared to take on the expense of raising the home myself, so it’s time to move on.” Sulewski has priced the house at $375,000 below its pre-storm value, hoping a buyer will see its potential despite the repairs it needs. “The view here is a major selling point,” he said, gesturing toward his waterfront pool.

His neighbor, Charlotte Martin, is also selling her home without making repairs. At 80, Martin finds the recovery process overwhelming. “Handling the insurance, contractors, and FEMA’s requirements is just too much,” she explained. After decades of enjoying Florida’s sunny lifestyle, she’s ready to move to a region with fewer flooding risks, even if it means enduring colder winters.

Local realtor Connie Redman with Coastal Property Group, who is handling Sulewski’s sale, has seen a wave of such listings. “People are worried about property values,” Redman said. “But even as-is, these lots hold significant worth, and the right buyer could transform what was once someone’s paradise into their own dream home.” She advises sellers to work with licensed realtors to ensure they get the best value possible, adding, “Selling in these situations is tough, but everyone has to make the choice that’s right for them.”

For now, these properties represent both loss and opportunity—a fresh start for the sellers and a chance for new owners to create their own paradise along Florida’s coast.

(Image credit: Yahoo News)