Page 133 - South Mississippi Living - March, 2016

RESURGENCE
a former president of the Gulf Coast Home Builders Association. “I only deal with high-end homes. Because
of building methods used, it’s not economically feasible to build small homes on the beach,” he said. “I’ve recently completed some and will start two more fronting the beach in 30 days.”
Brandon Elliott is the president of award-winning Elliott Homes and is optimistic about residential building in Gulfport. “The tax abatement program is a great benefit that helps people make the decision to build, but it’s not the major factor,” he said. “With lower insurance quotes coming back, people are getting confidence back and seeing a home as a great investment.”
He sees the Gulfport abatement district as the most beautiful strip on the Coast. “With the views, Jones
Park, the aquarium, marina, port
and downtown corridor, there’s a lot of space and potential in Gulfport,” he said. “As a builder, I look at
that and see a future there. It’s a family oriented atmosphere and not completely casinos. It’s exciting and I like to see things grow.”
Elliott also feels that the return of experienced building subcontractors is helping. “We don’t have to baby sit them and they’re improving the quality of building,” he said.
He and his family will move into their beachfront home this month
and then he will begin work on a speculative home on the adjoining
lot. Both designs are in what he calls the Mississippi heritage style and are 3,200 and 3,800 square feet. “We’re trying to keep the look of that heritage style,” he said. “There are new products and technology that help us
create that old look.”
Amy P. Wood, owner/broker of Amy
Wood Realty, says Gulfport has a
great idea on tax incentives for new construction and other cities adopting a program would be ideal. “However, we are seeing more building along the waterfront in all cities on the Coast now that the new flood maps are set so buyers know elevation requirements and insurance is more affordable,”
she said. “Some are second homes and many are full time residences. There is nothing like the gulf views for those who can afford it!”
Observing that houses and lots
close to the beach are selling, she commented, “The water is what draws people to the Coast and now builders are building stronger,” she said. “Also, Coast restaurants and downtown areas are building back. People want to live near the action and entertainment.”
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