6 Benefits of a Raised Beach House

Delaware and Eastern Maryland both lie within a sea level hotspot, where scientists believe that sea levels can rise faster and higher than anywhere else. As such, these areas are prone to constant flooding, which is a major factor that homeowners take into consideration when purchasing, building, or retrofitting their homes.

House lifting, which is the process of lifting your home from its original foundation and placing it on an elevated structure, has become a popular practice among area residents. From significantly lowering the risk of flood damage to creating extra storage space, there are many benefits to having a raised house.

Significantly Lower Risk of Flood Damage

If you’re tired of worrying about flood damage every time there’s news of a hurricane or heavy rains coming, then raising your home might be a viable option. High risks of flooding have scared many people out of their homes over the years and some homeowners have found it easier to move than deal with the damage.

However, moving is expensive and carries many costs, from having to pay realtors and movers to utility start-up fees and moving boxes. Having a raised house not only means that you can stay in the neighborhood you love but that you can also stop worrying about structural damage or mold growth, which can lead to adverse, long-term health effects.

Elevating your home can keep your family, pets, and belongings out of harm’s way for years to come without the need to change schools, work, or friends.

Raised House = Increase Resale Value

Even if you have no immediate plans to move, you can reap the benefits of raising your home when it does come time to sell. Lifting a house can increase a home’s resale value by up to 25% and lower insurance premiums up to 60%, and you won’t have to worry about factors such as stale odors when prospective buyers come to see your home.

Better Views of the Ocean

Raised homes have a tendency to nurture your soul with the warmer, more intimate environment they create. For instance, if you love going down by the ocean, raising your house means that you can enjoy even better views of the ocean from the comfort of your living space.

There’s no better (or romantic) way to wind down from a long day than by watching and listening to the serene sounds of waves crashing on the shoreline. Simply looking at the ocean can instantly reduce stress, enhance your physical health and wellbeing, and even promote a sense of awe and wonder.

Extra Storage Space

Raising your home means that you can enjoy a wealth of extra storage space, which you can use to store anything from lawn equipment to Christmas decorations. Alternatively, you could convert the extra space into a downstairs patio, an extra bedroom, or anything your heart desires. Adding extra storage space by lifting your home is a great alternative to expanding horizontally, especially if your home is on a narrow plot of land.

Create a Car Garage

If you currently struggle to find parking near your home, whether due to crowded neighborhoods or a full house, then lifting it may be the solution to your parking woes. If extra storage space doesn’t appeal or apply to you, you can always take advantage of the extra space beneath your home by turning it into a garage. Storing your car beneath your home can protect it from scratches, dings, weather elements, extreme temperatures, theft, vandalism, and more. Plus, the exterior of your vehicle will always look great!

Lower Insurance Rates

In the majority of cases, lifting your home can significantly reduce your flood insurance bill, as most insurance companies know that elevated houses are less likely to flood. In fact, you may be able to reduce your insurance premiums by as much as 30 to 60% just by elevating your home. Imagine what other kinds of home improvement projects you can afford just from the insurance savings!



While the cost of raising a home can vary, the benefits far outweigh the costs. Flooding will continue to happen along the east coast and multiple foundation repairs can cost just as much as house lifting. When it comes to estimating how much you will have to spend, it is important to get an estimate and consult with an experienced contractor about how much you should anticipate to invest.

Get a Custom Raised House in Delaware and Maryland 

Bay to Beach Builders' custom Amish-built homes are made to stand the test of time with tried and true building practices. Take this further by raising your house to protect against flooding. For some ideas for your next custom home, check out our Rehoboth, Fenwick, and Bethany models or contact us for more information.