Building a Custom Home in Windermere, FL

Windermere, Florida, is a premier destination for luxury living, offering serene lakefront views, upscale communities, and proximity to Orlando’s world-class attractions. Building a custom home in Windermere, FL, allows you to craft a residence tailored to your lifestyle in one of Central Florida’s most sought-after areas. With median home prices at $1.8 million in 2025 and a vibrant real estate market, now is an ideal time to invest in a new construction home in Windermere. Guided by Andy Neal, a top Windermere Realtor with Maxim Realty Orlando, this comprehensive guide outlines every step, from design to move-in, to help you build your dream home.

Why Build a Custom Home in Windermere?

Windermere’s charm lies in its blend of exclusivity and accessibility. Neighborhoods like Isleworth & Keene's Pointe offer luxury amenities, while proximity to Walt Disney World, Winter Garden and downtown Orlando makes it perfect for families and professionals. With a 70.6% year-over-year increase in home values, custom homes in Windermere, FL, promise strong investment potential. Partnering with Andy Neal ensures you navigate the process with local expertise.

Step 1: Design and Customization

Creating a custom home begins with a vision. Collaborate with a skilled architect or home designer to craft a floor plan that suits your needs, whether it’s an open-concept layout for entertaining or a multi-generational design with flexible spaces.

• Floor Plan Development: Work with professionals to design spacious great rooms, chef’s kitchens, or lakefront-facing primary suites. 

• Material Selection: Choose exterior finishes like stucco or stone, and interior features such as hardwood flooring, custom cabinetry, and quartz countertops to reflect Windermere’s modern elegance.

• Personal Touches: Incorporate energy-efficient features, smart home systems, or outdoor living spaces to enhance value and comfort.

Andy Neal can connect you with top designers familiar with Windermere’s aesthetic, ensuring your home complements the area’s luxury vibe.

Step 2: Permitting and Approvals

Building in Windermere requires compliance with Orange County’s regulations. Securing permits and approvals is essential to avoid delays and ensure your home meets safety and environmental standards.

• Permit Applications: Submit detailed blueprints to Orange County’s Building Division, covering structural, electrical, and plumbing plans.

• Compliance Requirements: Adhere to Florida Building Codes (updated 2023), zoning laws, and environmental regulations, especially for lakefront lots near Lake Butler.

• Environmental Considerations: Properties near wetlands may require additional permits for conservation compliance.

Work with your builder or Andy Neal to streamline the permitting process, keeping your project on track.

Step 3: Construction and Building

Once permits are secured, construction begins. This phase transforms your lot into a home, requiring careful coordination with your builder.

• Site Preparation: Clear the land, level the site, and ensure utility connections (water, sewer, electricity) are in place.

• Core Construction: Lay the foundation, complete framing, and install plumbing, electrical, and HVAC systems. Builders like Bressler Custom Homes excel in this phase.

• Progress Monitoring: Regularly check construction milestones to ensure timelines and budgets align with your plan.

Trusted builders recommended by Andy Neal, ensure quality craftsmanship for Windermere’s luxury homes.

Step 4: Inspections and Quality Control

Regular inspections are critical to maintain quality and compliance throughout construction.

• Staged Inspections: Schedule checks for foundation, framing, and mechanical systems to meet Orange County standards.

• Quality Assurance: Ensure construction aligns with your specifications, from structural integrity to energy-efficient installations.

• Builder Oversight: Reputable builders known for custom features, prioritize meeting client expectations.

Andy Neal’s network of professionals can help coordinate inspections, ensuring a seamless process.

Step 5: Interior Finishing and Fixtures

With the structure complete, focus shifts to interior details that define your home’s character.

• Interior Finishes: Install insulation, drywall, and finishes like tile flooring, custom cabinetry, and premium countertops.

• Fixture Installation: Select and install appliances, lighting, and plumbing fixtures, such as smart thermostats or spa-inspired faucets.

• Customization: Tailor spaces with built-in shelving or accent walls to reflect your style.

Windermere’s luxury homes often feature high-end finishes, and Andy Neal can recommend designers to elevate your interiors.

Mike Brombacher, a luxury real estate agent in Houston, TX has seen clients recently add saunas, cold plunges, and generators in their new construction homes.

Step 6: Final Touches and Landscaping

The final construction phase adds polish to your home and enhances curb appeal.

• Finishing Work: Complete painting, trim, and any remaining interior details.

• Landscaping: Design outdoor spaces with features like pools, decks, or native plantings to complement Windermere’s natural beauty.

• Outdoor Features: Add patios or fire pits to create inviting spaces for lakefront living.

Local landscapers familiar with Windermere’s aesthetic can transform your property into a showpiece.

Step 7: Final Inspections and Certifications

Before moving in, your home must pass final inspections to ensure compliance and safety.

• Final Inspection: Verify all systems meet building codes, from electrical to HVAC.

• Certifications: Obtain a Certificate of Occupancy from Orange County, confirming your home is ready for living.

• Quality Check: Conduct a walkthrough with your builder to address any minor issues.

Andy Neal’s expertise ensures all certifications are secured efficiently.

Step 8: Closing and Move-In

The final step is closing and settling into your new Windermere home.

• Closing Process: Coordinate with your Realtor and lender to finalize ownership transfer and financial settlements.

• Move-In: Celebrate moving into your custom home, designed to perfection in Windermere, FL.

• Post-Move Support: Andy Neal offers ongoing guidance to help you settle into your new community.

Why Partner with Andy Neal?

Building a custom home in Windermere requires local knowledge and trusted connections. Andy Neal, a certified luxury Windermere Realtor with Maxim Realty Orlando, brings over 25 years of experience and a top 1% ranking in Orlando sales. From securing lakefront lots to connecting you with builders, Andy ensures a stress-free process. Contact Andy at Maxim Realty Orlando to start your journey.

Final Tips for Success

• Budget Wisely: Custom homes in Windermere average $380 per square foot, with permitting adding 5-10% to costs.

• Stay Involved: Regular communication with your builder prevents delays.

• Plan for Resale: Incorporate timeless features like open layouts and energy efficiency to boost future value.

Building a custom home in Windermere, FL, is a rewarding investment in luxury and lifestyle. With Andy Neal’s expertise and this step-by-step guide, you’re ready to create a home that reflects your vision in one of Florida’s most desirable communities.