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Greetings. I'm in the initial stages of building a retirement house in the east. I've completed the topographic survey. I have a local engineering person in mind for design and permitting. I'm looking for recommendations for the afore mentioned, also the land clearing, site & soil work, excavation, concrete work, septic, electric, plumbing, and so on etc. Any input would be greatly appreciated! Thank you kindly.
Since you've identified an engineer to work with - I would start by talking to him/her first for recommendations. Also talk to your realtor.
There are many homes under construction right now - I have 7 within walking distance of my home. You might drive around the area where you are building and look for workers/owners you might talk to for suggestions.
Even if you plan to be your own contractor - I recommend hiring someone with significant island experience to work beside you.
It will take you years and years to complete your build. The more money you have to throw at your project the better off you'll be - but it still will take years and years.
There are not that many subcontractors on the island - so you'll get in line when you're ready for them. This is not a plan far ahead kind of place. Much easier to have a contractor with a crew and connection to known subcontractors working beside you.
Service Providers - St. Croix Island Life Real Estate (stcroixislandlife.com)
I agree with the advice of starting with your designer/engineer. They probably have preferred builders they work with and a good relationship between those teams can really help progress a lot. Getting a reputable builder with experience also is going to help a lot. Established firms know how to get things done. They know where and how to get the materials. They also work with preferred subcontractors. I also agree the more money you have to throw at the project up from the better it is. Right up front you are going to have to decide which is your main priority. Money or time. I know from experience that if you start a project off cash heavy that it saves a lot of time and money in the long run. Nothing slows a job down faster than not having materials when you need them. And buying those material locally can be really harsh to the bottom line.
