Building or buying a home that can truly stand up to a hurricane is a serious investment. Features like impact-resistant windows, reinforced roofing, and elevated foundations are incredibly effective, but they come with a high price tag that can put a dream coastal home out of reach for many. This is where co-ownership completely changes the game. It makes owning a top-tier, storm-ready property financially practical. When you share the cost of a fractional single family home hurricane-ready property with a small group of like-minded owners, you get all the security and peace of mind without the overwhelming financial burden. It’s a collaborative way to afford a safer, more resilient home.
Key Takeaways Co-ownership makes a safer home affordable A management team handles the hard work : You don't have to create a storm plan or manage repairs yourself. A professional property manager handles emergency preparations, insurance claims, and post-storm assessments, giving you peace of mind.Do your homework on the home and the agreement : Before committing, review the property's specific storm-resistant features, the area's storm history, and the owner agreement's emergency protocols. This ensures you and your co-owners are fully prepared.What is Fractional Home Ownership? Have you ever pictured yourself relaxing in a stunning vacation home but felt overwhelmed by the thought of the price tag and year-round upkeep? That’s where fractional ownership comes in. Think of it as a smart, collaborative way to own a luxury property. Instead of one person buying the entire home, a small group of people co-own it, with each person holding a real, deeded share of the property.
This isn't about renting or timeshares; it's about true ownership. You get to enjoy a beautiful home in a place you love, create lasting memories, and share the costs and responsibilities with a few other like-minded owners. It’s a model built on community and shared interest, making the dream of owning a high-end vacation home a practical reality. You get all the perks of a second home—the relaxation, the getaways, the pride of ownership—without the traditional financial and logistical burdens that come with it. It’s a modern approach that fits how people actually use their vacation properties.
Fractional vs. Traditional Homeownership When you buy a home the traditional way, you’re on the hook for 100% of everything—the mortgage, taxes, insurance, a new roof, and late-night calls about a leaky faucet. For a primary residence, that makes sense. But for a vacation home you might only use for a few weeks a year, it can be a heavy lift. Fractional ownership lets you match your ownership stake to your actual use. Instead of paying for a whole house that sits empty most of the year, you can purchase a share, like 1/8th, and pay just a fraction of the costs.
The biggest difference is that co-ownership lets you enjoy premium vacation spots without the financial strain of buying and maintaining a property solo. Unlike a timeshare, where you just buy time, fractional ownership gives you actual equity. Your share is a real asset that you can sell in the future, and it has the potential to appreciate in value right along with the property.
How the Co-Ownership Model Works The beauty of the co-ownership model is its simplicity for you as an owner. While you share the property with others, you don’t have to coordinate schedules or maintenance with them. A professional management company handles all the logistics. This means everything from routine cleaning and landscaping to paying utility bills and managing repairs is taken care of for you. It’s a truly hands-off experience designed to make your vacation feel like a vacation.
Scheduling your stays is also seamless. Owners reserve time through a fair and transparent system, often managed through an online portal like the myFRAX Portal . This ensures everyone gets to use the home throughout the year, including during peak seasons and holidays. By sharing the operating expenses, you significantly reduce the financial burden of upkeep, making luxury homeownership both accessible and enjoyable.
Why Co-Own a Hurricane-Resistant Home? Owning a vacation home in a beautiful coastal area is a dream for many, but the reality of hurricane season can bring a lot of stress. A hurricane-resistant home offers peace of mind, but the upgrades required can be expensive for a single owner. This is where co-ownership shines. It combines the joy of having a seaside retreat with the security of a well-protected property, all without the full financial and logistical weight falling on your shoulders.
When you co-own a home , you’re not just splitting the purchase price; you’re sharing the responsibility of keeping it safe. This model makes it practical to invest in high-quality storm protections that might otherwise be out of reach. It’s a smarter way to enjoy coastal living, ensuring your getaway is a place for relaxation and making memories, not a source of anxiety when a storm is on the horizon. By sharing the home, you also build a small community of owners who are all invested in its long-term care and safety.
Sharing the Cost of Storm Protection Making a home truly storm-ready involves significant investments, from impact-resistant windows to reinforced roofing. For one person, these costs can be daunting. With fractional ownership, these essential upgrades become much more manageable because the expense is divided among all the co-owners. This allows you to afford a higher standard of protection for the property, ensuring it’s built to withstand the elements.
Plus, most co-ownership arrangements include professional management services. This means you don’t have to coordinate contractors or oversee maintenance yourself. The property manager handles the upkeep, ensuring the home is always secure and well-maintained. It’s a practical approach that provides convenience and security, letting you focus on simply enjoying your time at the property.
Protecting Your Property's Value Together A major storm can significantly impact a home's condition and value. Investing in hurricane-resistant features is one of the most effective ways to protect your shared asset. These upgrades not only reduce the risk of costly repairs after a storm but can also make the property more desirable. In storm-prone areas, a home built to withstand hurricanes tends to hold its value better over time.
Think of it as a collective effort to preserve the place where you and the other owners make memories. Every decision to strengthen the home benefits everyone involved. By pooling resources, you can ensure your vacation home remains a beautiful, structurally sound retreat for years to come. You can see the quality of these properties by looking at current listings in desirable locations.
Debunking Myths About Co-Owning in Hurricane Zones Some people worry that co-owning a home means giving up control or having limited access, especially during an emergency. One common misconception is that you’ll lose say in important decisions, but professionally managed properties ensure every owner has a voice in major choices, like approving storm-related upgrades. It’s a collaborative process, not a loss of control.
Another myth is that scheduling is a nightmare. Modern co-ownership uses fair and transparent systems, often through an online portal, to manage owner stays. This ensures everyone gets ample time to enjoy the home. You can find answers to more common questions on our FAQ page , which helps clarify how shared ownership provides both flexibility and security.
Key Features of a Hurricane-Resistant Home When you picture your dream vacation home, you’re probably thinking about sunny days, not storm clouds. But if your ideal spot is in a coastal region, understanding what makes a home resilient is key to protecting your getaway and your peace of mind. A hurricane-resistant home isn’t about being completely indestructible; it’s about smart, intentional design that minimizes potential damage and keeps everyone safe. These homes are built with specific features that work together to stand up to high winds, heavy rain, and storm surges.
When you’re looking at fractional ownership properties , knowing these key features can help you identify a home that’s built to last. From the foundation to the roof, every element plays a role in the home’s ability to weather a storm. Think of it as the home’s built-in defense system. By choosing a property with these protections in place, you and your co-owners are already a step ahead in safeguarding your shared investment and, more importantly, the place where you make memories.
Impact-Resistant Windows and Doors A home's windows and doors are its most vulnerable points during a hurricane. A single broken window can lead to a dangerous buildup of pressure inside the house, which can cause the roof to lift off. That’s why impact-resistant windows and doors are so critical. They are engineered to withstand high-velocity winds and flying debris, essentially acting as a shield for your home’s interior. These aren't your standard windows; they often feature multiple layers of laminated glass that can hold together even if cracked, preventing wind and water from getting inside.
Wind-Resistant Roofing and Framing The roof is a home’s first line of defense against a hurricane’s powerful winds and torrential rain. A wind-resistant roof is designed to stay put. This often involves using hurricane straps, which are strong metal connectors that securely anchor the roof to the walls of the house. The shape of the roof also matters—a hip roof, which slopes down on all four sides, is more aerodynamic and stable in high winds than a gabled roof. Pairing this design with high-wind-rated shingles or metal panels creates a robust barrier that can better withstand severe weather.
Elevated Foundations and Flood-Proof Materials High winds are only half the battle; storm surge and flooding pose a massive threat. An elevated foundation is one of the most effective ways to protect a home from water damage by lifting the entire living space above predicted flood levels. This is especially important for coastal properties. Beyond just height, the materials used in the lower levels of the home matter, too. Using flood-proof materials like concrete, solid wood, and closed-cell foam insulation means that if water does reach the home, the structural damage and cleanup will be far less extensive.
Reinforced Concrete and Steel Structures The structural integrity of a home—its bones—determines how well it can resist the immense force of a hurricane. While wood framing is common, walls made from reinforced concrete or steel are significantly more durable. These materials provide superior protection against both wind and flying debris, creating a solid shell that is much harder to compromise. When you’re looking at a property, a reinforced structure is a clear sign that it was built with resilience in mind, offering a stronger, safer framework for your vacation home.
Unique Hurricane Challenges for Co-Owners Owning a home with others means you’re not facing hurricane season alone. While sharing responsibility has huge benefits, it also brings up a few unique situations you’ll want to plan for. When a storm is on the horizon, clear communication and a solid plan are everything. The key is to have these conversations and systems in place long before you ever need them, so when the time comes, everyone knows their role and can act quickly to protect your shared home.
Making Decisions as a Group When a storm approaches, decisions need to be made fast. Should you install the storm shutters now or wait? Who coordinates with local services? A common worry with shared ownership is getting stuck in a debate when time is of the essence. The good news is that a professionally managed co-ownership model is designed to prevent this. Your owner agreement outlines the decision-making process for emergencies, often giving the property manager the authority to take necessary protective measures. This ensures your home is secured promptly without needing a vote from every owner, blending professional expertise with your collective best interests.
Preparing for Emergencies Together Getting a home ready for a hurricane involves a long to-do list, from securing patio furniture to boarding up windows. Doing this alone can be overwhelming, especially if you’re not physically at the property. In a co-ownership arrangement, this burden is shared. Your property management team typically handles the on-the-ground logistics, following a detailed hurricane preparedness plan. This means you don’t have to worry about finding a reliable person to prep your home. Instead, you can focus on your family’s safety, knowing that your shared investment is being professionally protected according to an established emergency checklist .
Untangling Insurance with Multiple Owners Insurance in a hurricane-prone area can be complex, and adding multiple owners to the mix could seem daunting. Imagine trying to coordinate claims with several different insurance policies—it would be a nightmare. This is why fractional homes are covered under a single, comprehensive commercial policy managed by the ownership company. All owners are named on this policy, which simplifies everything from paying premiums to filing a claim. It ensures there are no gaps in coverage and that everyone is equally protected. This streamlined approach is a core benefit, making the process of insuring your home and handling repairs far more straightforward.
Handling Evacuations and Post-Storm Checks After a storm passes, the immediate concern is the state of your property. If you’ve evacuated, you can’t just drive back to check on things. This is another area where co-ownership provides peace of mind. The property management company is responsible for conducting the initial post-storm assessment as soon as it’s safe. They will document any damage, coordinate with insurance adjusters, and manage repairs, keeping all the owners updated through a central communication system like the myFRAX Portal . This lets you avoid the stress and emotional toll of dealing with the immediate aftermath, allowing you to focus on what matters most.
How Co-Owners Can Handle Hurricane Insurance Handling insurance for a vacation home can feel like a puzzle, especially when it’s in a hurricane-prone area. But one of the great things about the co-ownership model is that you don’t have to figure it out alone. Instead of each owner trying to secure their own policy, the property is covered under a single, comprehensive plan managed on your behalf. This approach not only simplifies the process but also brings some significant advantages when it comes to protecting your shared home. It streamlines everything from payments to claims, letting you focus more on planning your next trip and less on paperwork.
The Benefits of a Group Insurance Policy When you co-own a home, you also share the insurance policy. This group approach is a game-changer for a few reasons. First, it’s more cost-effective. By pooling resources, co-owners can access better, more comprehensive coverage at a group rate that’s often more favorable than what an individual could find on their own. This is similar to how all operating costs are shared to make ownership more affordable. Second, it ensures there are no gaps in coverage. With a single policy, everyone is equally protected, and you avoid the confusion that could arise from multiple individual plans. It’s a straightforward system designed to protect the home and all of its owners collectively.
What Your Co-Ownership Policy Should Cover A solid insurance policy is your home’s first line of defense, so it’s important to know what’s in it. For a coastal property, your group policy should go beyond standard coverage. Make sure it specifically includes protection against wind and flood damage, as these are often treated as separate risks. A comprehensive plan will cover structural damage to the home itself, personal property inside the home, and liability in case of accidents. It should also include coverage for additional living expenses, which helps with costs if the home is uninhabitable while repairs are being made after a storm. You can find more details about how this is managed in our FAQ section .
What Does Hurricane Insurance Actually Cover? It’s helpful to understand that "hurricane insurance" isn't a single product but a combination of coverages. Typically, it includes protection for damage caused by high winds and storm surges. However, damage from flooding—even when caused by a hurricane—usually requires a separate flood insurance policy. It’s also important to know about the deductible. For hurricane-related claims, deductibles are often a percentage of the home’s insured value, not a flat dollar amount. A well-managed policy will account for these details. Many insurers also offer discounts for homes with storm-resistant features, which is another reason why choosing a hurricane-ready property is a smart move.
Financial Perks of a Hurricane-Resistant Co-Owned Home When you think about your dream vacation home, you’re probably picturing relaxing getaways and memories with loved ones, not storm prep and repair bills. Choosing a hurricane-resistant home is about protecting those future experiences. Beyond the obvious safety benefits, a storm-ready property offers significant financial advantages that bring peace of mind. When you co-own a home, these perks are amplified because the costs and savings are shared, making it a smart and sustainable way to own property in a beautiful coastal location. This shared responsibility transforms what might seem like a luxury—a home built to the highest safety standards—into an accessible and practical choice for your family.
This approach isn't about turning a profit; it's about making your vacation home ownership as stress-free and affordable as possible. The goal is to offset operating costs so you can focus on what matters most: enjoying your time away. By investing in a resilient structure from the start, you and your fellow co-owners can spend more time enjoying the home and less time worrying about the weather. Let’s look at how a hurricane-resistant home protects both your property and your wallet.
Enjoy Lower Insurance Premiums One of the most immediate financial benefits of a hurricane-resistant home is the impact on your insurance costs. Insurance companies assess risk, and a home built with features like impact-resistant windows, a reinforced roof, and a strong foundation is simply less risky to insure. Many providers offer significant discounts for homes built to resist storms , which directly lowers your monthly or annual payments. In a co-ownership model, this already reduced premium is split among all the owners, making the cost of protecting your shared investment incredibly manageable. It’s a straightforward way to reduce your recurring expenses from day one.
Spend Less on Repairs and Recover Faster While a hurricane-resistant home might have a slightly higher initial price tag, it’s designed to save you money over the long run. These homes are built to withstand high winds and flooding, which means you’ll face fewer—or less severe—repairs after a storm passes. This saves you from the stress and expense of post-hurricane reconstruction. A resilient home allows you to recover faster, getting your property back to its beautiful, vacation-ready state without costly delays. This focus on prevention is a core benefit, ensuring your shared home remains a place of relaxation, not a source of unexpected financial burdens.
Protect Your Home's Value from Storms Storms can have a significant impact on local real estate markets, but a home that proves its resilience often holds its value better than surrounding properties. In some cases, homes in flood-impacted areas that withstand damage can even see a short-term price increase as they become more desirable. Research on how hurricanes affect real estate shows that durability is a key factor for buyers. For co-owners, this means the shared asset you all cherish is better protected from market volatility caused by severe weather. It ensures the home remains a valuable and desirable place for years to come, safeguarding the foundation of your family’s future vacations.
Weighing Initial Costs vs. Long-Term Savings It’s true that features like storm shutters and reinforced framing can add to the upfront cost of a home. However, this is where the power of co-ownership truly shines. By splitting the initial purchase price among several owners, the higher cost of a hurricane-resistant home becomes much more accessible. When you factor in the long-term savings from lower insurance bills, fewer repairs, and even better energy efficiency, the financial picture becomes clear. This model allows you to afford a safer, more durable home from the start, turning a smart long-term decision into an affordable one today.
Smart Upgrades for a Storm-Ready Home When you co-own a vacation home, you’re not just sharing the costs—you’re sharing the responsibility of keeping it safe. Making smart, proactive upgrades is one of the best ways to protect your shared investment and ensure it’s ready for whatever Mother Nature has in store. While a hurricane-resistant home is built strong from the ground up, certain additions can provide an extra layer of security and peace of mind for everyone involved.
These upgrades are a group decision, a conversation among co-owners about how best to protect your collective retreat. It’s about more than just reinforcing walls; it’s about preserving the place where you make memories. From simple additions like storm shutters to more significant projects like improving drainage, every improvement contributes to the home’s resilience. By planning and investing in these features together, you can significantly reduce the risk of damage and ensure your vacation spot remains a haven for years to come. This collaborative approach to home improvement helps everyone feel secure and confident in their ownership. It transforms the daunting task of storm preparation into a manageable, shared goal, strengthening both the house and the partnership between owners. Thinking ahead about these upgrades means less worry when a storm is on the horizon and more time focused on enjoying your getaway.
Storm Shutters and Impact Barriers Think of these as your home’s first line of defense. During a storm, high winds can turn everyday objects into dangerous projectiles. Storm shutters and impact barriers are designed to protect your windows and doors from being compromised. Modern impact-resistant windows are particularly impressive, built to withstand winds up to 200 mph and direct hits from flying debris. Installing these features means you won’t have to scramble to board up windows before a storm. It’s a permanent solution that offers constant protection, securing the most vulnerable points of your home so you can have confidence in its safety, even when you’re not there.
Backup Power and Drainage Systems A hurricane’s impact doesn’t stop when the wind dies down. Power outages and flooding are two of the most common after-effects. A backup generator can be a game-changer, keeping the lights on and refrigerators running until power is restored. Equally important is how the property handles water. A good drainage system is essential, as hurricanes bring torrential rain. The land should be graded to direct water away from the foundation. In some coastal areas, homes are even built on elevated foundations to stay above potential flood levels. These systems work behind the scenes to prevent water damage and keep your property dry and functional.
Structural Reinforcements The true strength of a storm-ready home lies in its bones. Key structural reinforcements make a world of difference in how a house holds up to extreme weather. It starts with a strong foundation, often made of reinforced concrete anchored deep into the ground to prevent lifting during high winds. The walls are just as critical. Homes built with concrete blocks or poured concrete are far more resilient than traditional wood framing when faced with intense wind pressure and impacts. These core reinforcements create a solid, secure structure that provides the ultimate protection, ensuring the home’s integrity during the most severe storms.
How to Evaluate a Location's Hurricane Risk Finding the perfect vacation spot is about more than just beautiful views and sunny skies. When you’re looking at homes in coastal areas, you also need to think about the location’s history with hurricanes. While a well-built home can stand up to a lot, the surrounding area plays a huge role in your safety and peace of mind. Doing a little homework on the location’s risk profile is a non-negotiable step in the buying process.
Think of it as part of your due diligence. Before you fall in love with a property, you need to understand the full picture of what it means to own there. This includes knowing how frequently storms occur, how the community prepares and responds, and what specific risks the property’s exact location might face. This information will help you and your co-owners make a smart, informed decision about your future family getaway. A great location isn't just beautiful—it's also resilient.
Check the Area's Storm History Before you commit to a home, it’s wise to look into the area’s past. You’ll want to understand the frequency and severity of previous storms. A quick search can tell you how many hurricanes have made landfall nearby and how intense they were. This isn’t about finding a place that’s never seen a storm, but about understanding the patterns and what to expect. You can use resources like the NOAA's historical hurricane tracker to see past storm paths and data.
Looking at storm history also gives you clues about how well the community recovers. How did other properties in the area fare during the last major hurricane? This context helps you gauge the area’s overall resilience and preparedness.
Consider the Home's Elevation and Proximity to the Coast Two of the biggest factors in hurricane risk are a home’s elevation and how close it is to the water. Generally, the nearer a property is to the shoreline, the more exposed it is to storm surge, which is the abnormal rise of water generated by a storm. That’s why understanding a home’s specific elevation above sea level is so important.
You can check the FEMA Flood Map Service Center to see if the property is in a designated flood zone. This will tell you the level of risk and whether flood insurance is required. A home on higher ground, even if it’s just a few extra feet, can make a world of difference during a major storm event.
Review Local Building Codes and Community Plans Local building codes are your best friend when it comes to storm readiness. Areas prone to hurricanes often have stricter regulations for new construction and renovations, requiring features that can withstand high winds and flooding. When you’re looking at a property, find out when it was built and what codes were in effect at that time. A home built to modern standards is a much safer bet.
You can usually find information on building codes on the local county or city government’s website. Strong codes show that the entire community is serious about safety. It’s a good sign when a town invests in resilient infrastructure and has clear plans for storm preparedness.
Assess Evacuation Routes and Infrastructure A hurricane-resistant home is only part of the safety equation. You also need to be able to leave safely if an evacuation is ordered. Take a look at a map and identify the designated evacuation routes for the area. How many ways are there to get in and out? Are the roads well-maintained and designed to handle heavy traffic during an emergency?
Beyond the roads, consider the local infrastructure. How reliable are the power, water, and communication systems? Some communities have invested in underground power lines and backup systems to get services restored more quickly after a storm. Your safety is the top priority, and having clear, accessible evacuation plans is a critical piece of the puzzle.
Finding Grants to Fund Hurricane-Resistant Upgrades Making your vacation home more resilient against storms is a wise move, but it doesn't have to be a huge financial burden. Various programs are available to help homeowners cover the costs of these important upgrades. By taking advantage of grants and other financial incentives, you and your co-owners can protect your shared property and potentially lower long-term expenses like insurance. It’s all about making smart, collective decisions to safeguard your home away from home.
Federal and State Grant Programs Many states in hurricane-prone regions offer grants to help residents fortify their homes. These programs are designed to encourage proactive measures that can reduce storm damage. Beyond direct funding, a major financial perk comes from insurance companies. Many insurers offer significant discounts for homes with certified hurricane-resistant features, which can lower your monthly payments. It’s worth checking with your state’s emergency management agency to see what disaster assistance programs are available. These resources can make essential upgrades, like installing impact windows or reinforcing your roof, much more attainable for you and your co-owners.
The My Safe Florida Home Grant Program If your co-owned property is in Florida, the My Safe Florida Home program is an incredible resource. It’s designed to help single-family homeowners protect their properties from hurricanes. The program starts with a free home hurricane inspection to identify your home’s weaknesses. From there, it can provide up to $10,000 in state funding for approved improvements. The best part is that it operates on a matching basis, giving you $2 for every $1 you and your co-owners contribute. This effectively triples your investment in the safety and security of your shared vacation spot.
How Co-Owners Can Fund Improvements Together This is where the co-ownership model truly shines. Instead of one person shouldering the entire cost of an upgrade, you can pool your resources with fellow owners. This collective approach makes significant improvements much more manageable. Most co-ownership agreements are structured to handle shared expenses for maintenance and capital improvements, taking the guesswork out of the process. A dedicated property manager can coordinate the project, from applying for grants to hiring contractors, ensuring everything runs smoothly. It’s a collaborative way to protect your shared asset and ensure it remains a beautiful retreat for years to come.
Your Checklist Before Buying a Hurricane-Resistant Fractional Home Buying a vacation home is a big step, and when you’re considering a property in a hurricane-prone area, there are a few extra layers to think about. The great thing about co-ownership is that you’re not in it alone. You share the responsibilities and the costs, but that also means clear communication and solid planning are essential. Before you sign on the dotted line, it’s important to do your homework to ensure your dream getaway is secure and well-managed, especially when storms are a possibility.
Think of this as your final due diligence. You’ve found a beautiful home, and you’re excited about the memories you’ll make there. Now, it’s time to look at the practical side of things. A little preparation now will save you a lot of stress later. By reviewing the management company’s emergency plans, understanding your owner agreement, digging into the property’s past, and planning for the future, you can feel confident that your shared home is ready for whatever Mother Nature throws its way. This checklist will walk you through the key areas to investigate.
Review the Management Company's Storm Plan When you co-own a home, the property management company is your team on the ground. Their preparedness is your preparedness. Before committing, ask for a detailed copy of their hurricane or severe storm plan. A good plan goes beyond just boarding up windows. It should outline pre-storm procedures, communication protocols for all owners during an event, and a clear post-storm response for assessing damage and starting repairs. Professionally managed properties ensure that each owner has a say in major decisions, and storm preparedness is one of the most important. Don’t be shy about asking specific questions: Who is the designated point of contact during an emergency? How is the property secured if no owners are present? What is the average response time for post-storm inspections?
Understand Your Owner Agreement for Emergencies Your owner agreement is the rulebook for your co-ownership group, and it’s crucial to understand what it says about emergencies. As a fractional owner, you naturally have less direct control over the property than a sole owner, so this document clarifies everyone’s roles and responsibilities. Read the fine print on sections related to natural disasters. Look for clauses that detail who has the authority to make urgent decisions, how reserve funds can be used for emergency repairs, and what procedures are in place if the home becomes uninhabitable for a period. A well-drafted agreement will provide a clear framework, preventing confusion and conflict when stress levels are high. You can find answers to common questions on our FAQ page .
Investigate the Property's Storm History The past can often tell you a lot about the future. Before buying, take some time to research the area's storm history. Look into how frequently hurricanes have impacted the region and the severity of past storms. You can often find this information through local government websites or historical weather data. It’s also smart to find out how the specific property—and others nearby—have fared in previous hurricanes. Were there significant damages? How quickly were repairs made? This research helps you assess the property's risk and understand the real-world resilience of the home you’re considering. All of our listings are in carefully selected locations, but this is always a worthwhile step.
Plan for Future Maintenance and Upgrades A hurricane-resistant home isn’t just about its current condition; it’s about keeping it that way. Even the most well-built homes can face unexpected issues, especially after a major storm. A solid co-ownership plan includes a healthy reserve fund for ongoing maintenance and future upgrades. Talk to the management company about how these funds are managed and allocated. It’s also a good idea to understand the process for proposing and approving capital improvements, like installing new storm shutters or upgrading the roof. Planning for these expenses as a group ensures the home remains safe and resilient for years to come, protecting your shared investment and your peace of mind. You can learn more about how to handle these fractional ownership challenges on our blog.
Related Articles Frequently Asked Questions What if the other co-owners and I disagree on a necessary storm-related repair or upgrade? This is a common concern, but the process is more structured than you might think. Your owner agreement typically outlines how decisions for capital improvements and major repairs are made. For essential safety upgrades, the property manager will often present professional recommendations and bids. This shifts the conversation from personal opinion to expert advice, which helps guide the group toward a practical decision that protects the home and everyone’s investment.
Am I personally responsible for preparing the house for a storm, like putting up shutters? Not at all. One of the core benefits of this ownership model is that you don't have to handle the on-the-ground logistics. The professional property management company executes a detailed hurricane preparedness plan for the home. This includes securing outdoor furniture, installing storm shutters, and performing other pre-storm checks. Your responsibility is simply to focus on your own safety, knowing that the property is being cared for by professionals.
How are unexpected, major repairs paid for after a hurricane? Will I get a surprise bill? Major post-storm repairs are precisely what the home’s comprehensive insurance policy is for. In the event of damage, the property manager coordinates with the insurance adjuster to file a claim. The policy’s deductible is typically paid from the home’s reserve fund, which all owners contribute to over time as part of the operating expenses. This structure is designed to handle unexpected costs without requiring a sudden, large payment from each owner.
What happens if the home is damaged and I can't use my scheduled vacation time? If the home is uninhabitable due to storm damage, the property management team's first priority is to manage repairs and get it ready for owners as quickly as possible. They will keep you updated on the timeline. The scheduling system is then adjusted fairly to accommodate owners who missed their stays. Additionally, the group's insurance policy often includes coverage that can help offset costs associated with the loss of use.
Is getting insurance complicated with multiple owners? It’s actually much simpler for you as an owner. Instead of each person trying to secure their own policy, the entire property is covered under a single, comprehensive commercial insurance plan. All co-owners are named on this policy, which is managed by the company. This ensures there are no gaps in coverage and streamlines the entire process, from paying premiums to filing a claim if needed.
