At Rheace Contracting, we bring firefighter-owned integrity and second-generation craftsmanship to Sewall’s Point — a serene peninsula community bordered by the St. Lucie River to the south and west, and the Indian River Lagoon to the east.
Here, grand waterfront estates nestle among canopy-covered oak streets, private docks, stylish restaurants like Stringers Tavern & Oyster Bar and charming Harbour-Bay-area shopping, creating a lifestyle of natural elegance and water-based luxury.
We specialize in custom ICF homes and major estate-scale renovations that withstand coastal conditions, enhance modern luxury living and reflect the distinctive character of Sewall’s Point.
Being surrounded by water, homes here face salt-air, brackish water and dock-adjacent conditions. We deploy marine-grade aluminum, stainless-steel fasteners and corrosion-resistant exterior systems to ensure long-term durability.
Many lots sit within flood zones and face storm-surge or high water-table conditions. We engineer elevated stem-wall foundations, site grading, advanced waterproofing and integrate drainage systems tailored for estuarine lots.
The homeowners of Sewall’s Point expect exceptional architectural detailing, indoor-outdoor living flow, and luxury finishes. Whether we’re building a new estate or renovating a classic home, we provide white-glove service from design to completion.
Our team brings more than general contracting — we deliver elevated performance, local knowledge and exceptional service. From coordinating waterfront permitting and dock-structure considerations to sourcing luxury finishes and managing multi-phase renovations, we’re your partner for estate-scale living in Sewall’s Point.
We understand the details of living beside the water — how to maximize views, how to design for breezes, how to protect for storms — and we bring that expertise to every project.
Custom home construction in Sewall's Point typically ranges from $500-800+ per square foot depending on project scope and waterfront considerations. Properties on the St. Lucie River or Indian River Lagoon often require elevated foundations and marine-grade materials.
ICF construction adds approximately 3-5% but provides significant hurricane resistance, energy efficiency, and protection against the humid, salt-air environment.
Waterfront properties face additional costs including elevated foundations for flood compliance, seawall maintenance or construction, dock work coordinating with home construction, and advanced drainage systems. Interior lots generally cost less due to simpler foundation requirements.
Many Sewall's Point properties require elevated foundations or enhanced drainage due to flood zone designations and high water tables common in this peninsula community.
Foundation requirements depend on FEMA flood zone designation. Higher-risk zones typically require elevated stem-wall or pile foundations to meet base flood elevation requirements. Homes built at grade may need enhanced waterproofing and perimeter drainage.
Properties near water often have sandy soils and high water tables requiring dewatering during construction. Geotechnical evaluation determines appropriate foundation systems for specific sites. We work with structural engineers familiar with Martin County requirements and Sewall's Point conditions.
Building in Sewall's Point requires permits through Martin County Building Department. Waterfront properties face additional requirements: flood zone compliance and elevation certificates, environmental permits for work near shorelines, dock permits through Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, and potential seawall permits.
Stormwater management plans are required for new construction. Properties in historic areas may face architectural review beyond standard building code compliance.
Permitting typically spans 8-16 weeks for standard projects. Waterfront properties requiring environmental permits may need 12-20 weeks. We manage all permit applications, coordinate with Martin County and other agencies, and schedule required inspections.
Yes, we provide renovation services for existing Sewall's Point homes, including waterfront properties. Many homes were built decades ago and benefit from updates improving hurricane resistance, energy efficiency, and modern functionality.
Common waterfront renovations include upgrading to impact-rated windows and doors, replacing or raising HVAC equipment above flood levels, kitchen and bathroom remodels maximizing water views, and structural modifications for open floor plans.
Waterfront renovations often coordinate with dock repairs or seawall maintenance. For homes in flood zones, renovations exceeding 50% of home value may trigger substantial improvement rules requiring the entire structure to meet current flood elevation standards.
Custom homes in Sewall's Point typically require 18-24 months from initial design through completion. Waterfront properties often fall toward the longer end due to foundation requirements, permitting complexity, and site conditions.
Architectural design and engineering takes 3-4 months. Permitting requires 2-4 months for standard properties, 3-5 months for waterfront sites. Construction spans 12-16 months depending on scope.
Factors affecting timelines include flood zone compliance requiring elevated construction, dock or seawall work coordinating with house construction, and weather delays during hurricane season. Renovation timelines: kitchen/bath updates take 4-6 months, full-home renovations require 8-14 months.
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