At Rheace Contracting, we bring firefighter-owned integrity and second-generation craftsmanship to Hobe Sound, one of Martin County’s most exclusive coastal communities. Known for its quiet beaches, Intracoastal waterfront, and world-class golf clubs, Hobe Sound attracts homeowners who value both natural serenity and architectural excellence.
Building or renovating in Hobe Sound requires a builder who understands the challenges of coastal construction — from hurricane exposure and salt-air corrosion to flood zones and soil stabilization. We specialize in ICF custom homes, luxury renovations, and bespoke additions that protect, perform, and inspire, ensuring your Hobe Sound property is built for both resilience and refined living.
Jupiter Island, stretching through Hobe Sound, is home to some of the most prestigious estates in Florida. We build oceanfront residences here with elevated foundations, marine-grade materials, and ICF walls designed to withstand hurricane-force winds, while delivering bespoke interiors that reflect each client’s lifestyle.
In communities like The Medalist Golf Club and Hobe Sound Golf Club, homeowners expect residences that combine refined architecture with high performance. We specialize in both new ICF builds and whole-home renovations that elevate golf course living with luxury finishes and energy efficiency.
Along the Intracoastal Waterway and surrounding canals, homes are built for boating, entertaining, and resilience. Our builds feature dockside automation, storm-ready engineering, and seamless indoor-outdoor living spaces designed to make the most of waterfront living.
For families drawn to the charm of Old Hobe Sound, we modernize existing homes with full-scale renovations and additions. Many of these properties sit near preserves and waterways, making storm protection and drainage key elements of our construction approach.
Though part of Martin County, Hobe Sound’s coastal exposure demands the same level of hurricane readiness as Palm Beach County. Our ICF homes exceed HVHZ requirements, providing unmatched protection against high winds and storm surge.
Proximity to the Atlantic and Intracoastal accelerates material degradation. We use stainless fasteners, marine coatings, and coastal-rated windows and roofing systems to combat corrosion and extend the life of your investment.
Many waterfront properties fall within flood-prone areas. We engineer stem wall foundations, elevate structures where required, and integrate drainage systems to ensure long-term protection.
From sandy coastal lots to inland tracts, Hobe Sound soil conditions vary. We begin with geotechnical testing and design stem wall foundations — occasionally reinforced with piers or piles — to ensure absolute stability.
Through our five-step Rheace Approach, we simplify the building process for Hobe Sound clients. We start with a private consultation to define your vision, then collaborate with leading architects to shape a design tailored to your lifestyle. Our team manages permitting, HOA approvals, and environmental considerations unique to the area. During construction, our superintendent ensures precision and accountability, and upon completion, we provide a white-glove walkthrough, warranty service, and long-term client support.
Rheace Contracting is the trusted choice for Hobe Sound homeowners seeking architectural excellence paired with coastal resilience. As a firefighter-owned, second-generation firm, integrity is our foundation. Our expertise in ICF construction ensures homes that surpass code, lower energy costs, and provide unmatched storm protection. Whether you’re building a new oceanfront estate on Jupiter Island, renovating a golf course residence, or expanding a family home inland, we deliver projects marked by craftsmanship, transparency, and timeless design.
Custom home construction in Hobe Sound typically ranges from $150-280 per square foot, with projects averaging $300,000-$600,000+ depending on size and finishes. This unincorporated Martin County community offers more affordable building costs than nearby barrier islands while maintaining proximity to beaches and waterways.
ICF construction adds approximately 3-5% to total building costs but provides enhanced hurricane protection and energy efficiency in Florida's climate. Waterfront properties near the Intracoastal may require elevated foundations, adding to construction expenses.
Site-specific factors include lot preparation, flood zone requirements for properties near water, and distance from utilities. We provide detailed cost estimates after site evaluation and design consultation.
Yes. Hobe Sound is an unincorporated community, so all building permits are handled through Martin County Building Department. Applications are submitted through the Accela Citizen Access (ACA) online portal system.
Required permits include building, electrical, plumbing, and mechanical permits depending on project scope. Waterfront properties may require additional environmental permits from Florida DEP, dock permits through FWC, and potential seawall permits.
Permitting typically takes 8-16 weeks for standard residential construction, with waterfront properties potentially requiring 12-20 weeks due to environmental reviews. Martin County requires inspections at various construction stages. We manage all permit applications and coordinate with county agencies throughout the approval process.
Hobe Sound follows Martin County building codes and Florida Building Code requirements. Key considerations include wind load calculations for hurricane protection, flood elevation requirements for FEMA-designated zones, and proper stormwater management systems.
Properties near water face additional requirements including wetland setbacks, marine turtle protection during nesting season (March 1 - October 31), and coastal construction standards. The area's sandy soils often require specific foundation engineering.
Martin County Building Department conducts plan review and multiple inspections during construction. Working with contractors experienced in Martin County requirements ensures code compliance and prevents delays. Construction must meet current energy efficiency standards and hurricane resistance protocols.
Yes, waterfront construction is common in Hobe Sound along the Intracoastal Waterway and surrounding areas. Waterfront building involves additional complexity including elevated foundation requirements based on FEMA flood zones, environmental permits for shoreline work, and coordination with marine resource agencies.
Design considerations include proper drainage systems, salt-air-resistant materials, and dock or seawall integration. Foundation systems typically require engineering for sandy soils and high water tables common near waterways.
Environmental permitting adds 1-3 months to timelines. Construction near water must coordinate with sea turtle nesting season restrictions (March 1 - October 31). Despite additional requirements, waterfront Hobe Sound properties offer excellent value compared to barrier island locations.
Custom homes in Hobe Sound typically require 16-22 months from initial design through completion. This includes architectural planning (3-4 months), Martin County permitting (2-4 months for standard sites, 3-5 months for waterfront), and construction (12-16 months).
Waterfront properties require longer permitting due to environmental reviews and coordination with multiple agencies. Foundation work may need additional time for properties with challenging soil conditions or high water tables.
Weather impacts timelines, particularly during hurricane season (June-November). Martin County requires multiple inspections throughout construction, which must be scheduled and passed before proceeding to next phases. Full-home renovations typically take 8-14 months depending on scope.
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