Site Selection
Great developments start with great locations—and choosing the right site is the most important strategic decision in any real estate project. For waterfront and destination developments, the stakes are even higher. Coastal Systems specializes in identifying sites that balance vision, feasibility, and long-term potential. We help clients pinpoint high-value opportunities while avoiding the costly risks that come with difficult access, environmental constraints, or regulatory uncertainty. With decades of experience across Florida, the Caribbean, and the Americas, we know how to find sites that check every box—economically, environmentally, and operationally.
Evaluating Waterfront Potential
Not all waterfront properties are created equal. A site that looks appealing at first glance might face erosion issues, flooding risks, or permit challenges that impact buildability or long-term value. That’s why our site selection process goes deep. We evaluate tidal patterns, wind exposure, wave energy, and shoreline conditions to understand how the site performs naturally. We also assess buildable area, soil quality, and access to basic utilities and transportation links. These factors directly affect construction costs and infrastructure demands.
We don’t just look at the physical land—we look at how people will use it. Our team studies view corridors, sun paths, and circulation patterns to determine how the site fits into a larger experience. Whether the project is a resort, marina village, or mixed-use waterfront district, we evaluate the site’s potential to support a variety of uses and attract recurring traffic.
Infrastructure and Accessibility
In waterfront development, logistics are everything. A beautiful site without road, water, or utility access can quickly become a financial and operational burden. Our team conducts infrastructure audits to determine the availability and quality of roads, docks, power grids, communications, water supply, and wastewater systems. For remote or undeveloped areas, we assess feasibility for off-grid solutions including solar, desalination, and modular utilities.
For sites located on islands or in less connected regions, we evaluate existing marine or air transport options. If none are present, we explore solutions like small landing strips, helipads, or ferry services that could be phased in over time. This level of planning is critical in minimizing supply chain issues and keeping construction timelines on track.
Zoning and Regulatory Considerations
Waterfront real estate development is often heavily regulated. Whether it’s environmental protections, coastal setbacks, height limits, or shoreline stabilization rules, every jurisdiction brings a unique legal landscape. Coastal Systems helps clients understand the full regulatory picture before committing to a property. We analyze zoning maps, land use codes, coastal construction control lines, and protected areas to assess the scope for development or redevelopment.
We also engage with local permitting agencies early to determine approval timelines, required studies, and potential red flags. Our familiarity with permitting agencies and coastal development rules across multiple countries and municipalities gives our clients an edge when making informed decisions. We also identify potential incentives, tax abatements, or grants that may be available for projects tied to economic development or climate resilience.
Market and Economic Alignment
It’s not just about what you can build—it’s about what the market wants. We conduct in-depth market analysis to ensure the site aligns with tourism trends, population growth, regional demand, and seasonal use patterns. Our team reviews demographic data, hotel and rental trends, property values, and existing competition to project revenue potential for different development types.
We also consider the long-term investment horizon. Is the area poised for growth or at risk of saturation? Is this a niche tourism destination or a year-round community hub? Our market studies provide real data that informs the highest and best use for the land, guiding decisions on scale, product mix, and phasing strategy.
Tools and Technology for Site Selection
We leverage advanced tools to streamline and strengthen the site selection process. This includes GIS analysis, LiDAR topography, drone mapping, and remote sensing data that give us a highly accurate understanding of landforms, elevation, vegetation cover, and hydrology. These technologies help us identify hidden constraints—or hidden value—before ever stepping foot on-site.
Drone footage and aerial imaging also support visual assessment, marketing preparation, and stakeholder presentations. Whether you’re presenting a potential deal to investors or making a go/no-go decision as a developer, our tech-driven approach brings clarity and confidence to every site evaluation.
Realizing Visions for over 30 years