During a recent government meeting, discussions highlighted the challenges of affordable housing in the area, particularly regarding the costs associated with purchasing and building on residential lots.

One participant reported on Heritage Point, where a 2.19-acre lot was listed at $12,500, accompanied by annual HOA dues of $415 and potential special assessments, which may be prohibitive for many prospective buyers. Another case involved a gentleman interested in a lot in Laurel Point priced at $42,500. However, he found the financial burden of the minimum home size requirement of 2,500 square feet, along with an annual fee of $350, made the project unfeasible, especially as he intended to build a home for his son. The additional costs of clearing the heavily wooded lot, soil work, well installation, and construction further escalated the financial demands.

Another staff member shared his experience while looking to build a home for his daughter in the Corotone by the Bay subdivision. Although individual lots were priced under $10,000, the necessity to purchase multiple lots for a functional septic system, combined with HOA dues for each, rendered the project unaffordable. Ultimately, he opted for a pre-built home, which alleviated the complexities and costs associated with land development.

The discussions underscored the high costs of building and the pressing need for more affordable housing solutions in the community. The meeting concluded with a commitment to conduct further research on real estate options ahead of the next hearing, aiming to address these affordability issues.