Q: What flood-mitigation questions should I ask before buying a home in Davis Shores?
Having lived in Davis Shores for years, I've learned firsthand how important it is to understand a property's flood risk before buying. I love this neighborhood, but there are things I wish I had known before purchasing my own home. My advice is simple. Ask about previous flooding, request an elevation certificate, and understand the cost of flood insurance. Find out what improvements have been made to protect the property. Most importantly, check the property's FEMA flood zone. Is it located in a Special Flood Hazard Area? Keep in mind that even homes outside these designated areas can experience flooding. You can look up any property's flood zone by entering the address here: https://msc.fema.gov/portal/home As both a Davis Shores homeowner and local Realtor, I know this community well. My own experiences have taught me that two homes on the same street can have very different flood risks. A little homework before purchasing can save you a lot of heartache later.