A blank lot, an aging ranch, and a head full of ideas—where do you start without blowing the budget or your sanity? We sat down with Simon Amesbury from Alair Homes to map a path from “someday” to a keys-in-hand custom home that fits the way you actually live in Tampa Bay. No fluff, no guesswork—just a clear process that ties your vision to realistic numbers and a timeline you can track.

We dig into the first decisions that matter: understanding zoning, setbacks, and FEMA rules; crafting a concept design that reflects your style and the site; and building a detailed estimate before you touch construction. Simon explains why true custom isn’t four cabinet choices, it’s informed freedom—making selections with guidance so each choice works with code, climate, and the trades who install it. You’ll hear how open-book software keeps schedules, invoices, selections, and photos at your fingertips, and why the right subcontractors for bespoke details are different from production crews built for repetition.

If you’re weighing remodel versus teardown, we talk through the Tampa Bay realities. Many block homes from the 60s and 70s are structurally sound and worth reimagining—sometimes with a second story—rather than lifting old structures or moving away from the neighborhood you love. For buyers and agents, we cover using renderings to help people visualize what fits a lot within height limits, setbacks, and impervious area rules. And for sellers, that vision can unlock better marketing and stronger offers.

By the end, you’ll know how to protect your budget, reduce stress, and keep design integrity from plan to punch list. Ready to turn your ideas into a buildable, beautiful plan? Follow the show, share this episode with a friend who’s dreaming about a custom home or remodel, and leave a review to tell us what you want to hear next.

For more information about Alair Homes Tampa visit their website here.
Not in the Tampa area visit Alair Homes here to find a location near you.

Have questions about the area or suggestions on a topic, send us a text here!

Thank you for tuning into "Snapshots Tampa Bay with Candace and Lisa." We're thrilled to share our insights and adventures with you. To keep the conversation going and explore more about Tampa Bay and Central Florida real estate, connect with us on social media and other platforms!

Ways to Connect with Us: Visit our Linktree for all the links to our social media pages, latest episodes, and more information.

We look forward to connecting with you and hearing your thoughts. Don’t forget to subscribe, so you never miss an episode. Until next time, keep loving and exploring Tampa Bay!