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Q: How would you describe the current state of construction in Vero Beach’s luxury residential market?
A: The construction market along the barrier island in Vero Beach remains stable and healthy. Our company’s work is typically split between new construction and renovations—about a 60/40 ratio—and both sectors have returned to more normalized levels compared to the heightened pace of two to three years ago.
Within John’s Island, we continue to see strong demand for new construction. Many of the homes originally built are now being replaced to align with today’s expectations of luxury living.
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Q: Why are so many clients choosing to build new instead of renovating?
A: We are seeing robust desire for highly customized homes, driven by clients who want both unique architectural expression and functionality tailored to their families.
We’ve been building in John’s Island since 1978, and today’s projects are more detailed and design-driven than ever before. Clients are thinking long-term—building homes to be enjoyed for years, often across generations. This is reflected in the level of customization. There is a major emphasis on outdoor living, with covered porches, pools, and patio areas becoming more expansive and integrated into the home’s overall design.
Inside, we’re seeing:Q: From a timing standpoint, is this a good moment to build?
A: Yes, it is. The market has become more balanced, which allows clients to approach projects with greater clarity and less urgency than in previous years.
That’s important in a market like Vero Beach, where the goal is not speed, but precision. Clients have the opportunity to secure quality homesites, collaborate thoughtfully on design, and make informed decisions.
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Q: The barrier island communities are known for their exclusivity. How does that influence the decision to build?
A: Exclusivity here is rooted in true scarcity. Along the A1A corridor, there are a limited number of homesites, and development is carefully controlled to preserve the character of each community.
For our clients, that means when the right property becomes available, it represents a unique opportunity. Building allows them to maximize that opportunity—creating a home that is specifically designed for the site, the surroundings, and their lifestyle.
It also requires a deep understanding of each community’s architectural standards, review processes, and environmental considerations. That level of familiarity is critical to executing well in these settings.
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Q: Let’s talk about the time it takes for building...
A: We’ve seen some projects on John’s Island come in at around 16 to 17 months, while oceanfront and more complex custom homes often extend longer depending on scope, design, and selections. As with anything truly custom, timing ultimately reflects the vision and level of detail involved - the sky is the limit.
With a rare selection of premier riverfront and oceanfront homesites currently available, it’s a prime chance to craft a home that is exceptional and enduring in value.
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Q: How has the definition of luxury evolved among your clients?
A: Luxury today is much more about intention than excess. Our clients are prioritizing homes that feel effortless, functional, and timeless.
We’re also seeing increased demand for multigenerational living—homes designed with guest suites, detached spaces, or flexible layouts that can evolve over time. Ultimately, luxury is about how the home lives day to day, not just how it presents.
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Q: What defines a successful project for your team?
A: A successful project is one where the relationship between the client and builder remains strong long after construction is complete. That comes down to trust and consistently meeting expectations.
We build that trust early in our process through transparency, communication, and experienced project management. We guide our clients through every phase of the process with a focus on clarity and accountability and we enjoy getting to know our clients and their families.
For anyone considering a project, we recommend expecting the following from their builder:_______________________________
Q: What should clients prioritize when selecting a builder in these communities?
A: Experience within the specific communities is essential. Each has its own nuances, and successfully navigating them requires more than general construction knowledge.
Equally important is consistency. Clients should look for a builder with a proven track record of delivering high-end custom homes at a very high level, repeatedly.
Our long-standing presence in Vero Beach—and particularly within communities like John’s Island—has allowed us to refine both our process and our relationships. That continuity is something our clients value, and it plays a significant role in the success of each project.
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Q: Final thoughts—what makes building in John’s Island unique?
A: A distinct kind of luxury—one that is quiet, private, and deeply rooted in quality of life. Building here is about more than constructing a home. It’s about creating something that fits seamlessly within a limited and highly desirable environment. When done well, the result is a home that not only meets today’s expectations, but remains relevant and valuable for years to come. That’s ultimately what our clients are investing in—and it’s what we’re committed to delivering.
JOHN’S ISLAND REAL ESTATE THANKS OUR Q&A CONTRIBUTERS, CROOM CONSTRUCTION:
Led by Charles Croom and David Lyons, Croom Construction brings nearly half a century of experience building top-tier homes
throughout Indian River County, with a strong and established presence in John’s Island. With a portfolio of more than 1,000 luxury projects, their team offers multi-generational expertise and a high level of professionalism to every home they deliver.
www.croomconstruction.com
