Florida Homes Flood, Residents Face 'Zombie Home' Crisis

The tranquil streets of Shore Acres, Florida, are now marked by "zombie homes" – properties abandoned by owners after devastating floods from Hurricanes Helene and Milton. These storms, particularly Helene, inundated the neighborhood, displacing thousands and causing widespread damage. Many long-time residents, weary of repeated inundations, have left, contributing to a stark visual of porta-potties and neglected houses amidst pristine lawns.

The impact extends beyond immediate displacement, with home values in Shore Acres experiencing a significant decline. Properties bought for hundreds of thousands are now selling for a fraction of their original price. This financial distress forces many homeowners into difficult decisions: sell at a massive loss or invest substantial funds into costly home elevation projects, a process described as slow and expensive.

Despite these challenges, a strong community spirit endures. Some residents, like the Martins, are self-funding extensive home elevations, while others, like the Nashes, are applying for state programs like Elevate Florida. This initiative aims to help homeowners lift their properties above flood levels. The resilience of Shore Acres residents is evident as they prepare for a future where elevated homes may become the norm.