Back in the day, I made a video about whether block construction is better than wood frame homes. And let me tell you, that video got people talking. So many investors, new and experienced, wrestle with this exact question: “Should I buy block, or should I buy wood frame?”
That video is still one of my favorites, and even though I recorded it a while ago, it’s just as relevant today. So I thought—why not bring it back, but this time in article form? Let’s break it down, add some extra context, and expand on the lessons I’ve learned in 20+ years of investing.
Spoiler: The answer isn’t as simple as “block is better.” It depends on your area, your budget, your strategy, and sometimes even your taste.
Why People Think Block Is Better
Block construction has a reputation, especially in Florida. Why? Hurricanes, insurance, and durability. A lot of folks (especially out-of-state investors) hear “Florida” and immediately think: “Oh, I need block! Hurricanes will eat a wood frame house alive.”
There’s some truth here:
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Stronger against storms – Block can withstand wind and flying debris better.
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Insurance companies often like block better – which can sometimes mean lower premiums.
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Perceived durability – people see concrete and think, “That’ll last forever.”
But here’s the catch: perception isn’t everything. Tenants don’t walk in and ask, “Is this block or wood?” They ask if it’s clean, safe, and in a good neighborhood.
Why Wood Frame Still Works (and Sometimes Wins)
Wood frame homes get a bad rap, but let’s be real: some of the most desirable neighborhoods in Tampa Bay (like Hyde Park, Seminole Heights, and Ybor City) are full of beautiful old wood frame houses. And tenants or buyers happily pay a premium to live there.
Wood frame has its own set of advantages:
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Easier (and cheaper) plumbing fixes – Crawl spaces under many wood frame homes mean you don’t have to cut through concrete just to fix a pipe.
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More electrical access – Same deal. Running wires is often simpler.
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Lower purchase prices – Nine times out of ten, a wood frame house costs less than a similar block one next door.
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Historic charm – Investors sometimes forget: curb appeal and character can rent or sell a property faster.
Of course, the big drawback everyone screams about: termites. And yes, termites are a thing in Florida. But here’s the kicker: even block homes usually have wood in the roof structure and interior, so you’re never truly “termite-proof.” It’s about maintenance, not construction type.
The Investor’s View: It’s All About the Numbers
At the end of the day, I don’t buy properties just because they’re block or wood frame. I buy based on return.
Let me give you a simple example:
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A block home might sell for $250,000.
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A similar wood frame house on the same street might sell for $220,000.
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If both can rent for $2,000/month, guess which one gives me a higher cash-on-cash return? Yep—the wood frame.
Sure, the block might win when it comes to insurance rates or storm resistance. But if the foundation on the wood frame is solid, and I can buy it cheaper, that’s often a better play for my portfolio.
I call this Tonka Thinking: don’t get dazzled by shiny features, focus on what’s durable, functional, and gives you velocity with your money.
My Personal Experience: 20 Years, 3,500 Deals
When I started investing, I was like everyone else—I thought block was the only way to go. It felt safer. But after 20+ years and 3,500+ transactions, I can tell you I’ve made just as much money (and sometimes more) on wood frame homes.
Some of my best flips were historic wood frame properties. Buyers loved the charm. And some of my best rentals were wood frame too, because I got in cheaper and cash-flowed stronger.
The key lessons I’ve learned:
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Don’t be scared of wood frame just because everyone else says “block is better.”
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Always check the foundation. If that’s solid, you’re good.
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Run the numbers—returns matter more than material.
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Remember location is king. A wood frame in a hot neighborhood beats a block house in the wrong zip code any day.
Block vs Wood: Side-by-Side Breakdown
| Feature | Block Construction | Wood Frame Construction |
|---|---|---|
| Durability | Stronger against storms | Can last decades if maintained |
| Insurance | Usually lower rates | Sometimes higher |
| Maintenance Costs | Repairs require cutting into concrete | Crawl space makes fixes easier |
| Upfront Cost | Usually higher | Usually cheaper |
| Tenant Preference | Tenants don’t care | Tenants don’t care |
| Resale Value | Slightly higher | Depends on neighborhood |
| Pest Concerns | Less exposed wood, but still vulnerable | More wood = more risk of termites |
Real Story: Fixing Plumbing in a Wood Frame vs Block
Here’s one that stuck with me.
I had a wood frame rental in Tampa with a busted drain line. Because it was wood frame with a crawl space, my plumber crawled under the house, replaced the line, and I was out just a few hundred bucks.
Compare that to a block house I owned in Brandon. Similar issue. But this time, the crew had to cut into the slab, dig, replace the pipe, then patch the slab. That job cost thousands.
That’s when I stopped dismissing wood frame houses.
Common Myths Busted
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“Wood frame houses fall apart in hurricanes.”
Not true. Plenty of wood frame homes survive storms just fine—especially if updated to code. -
“Block is always worth more.”
Not always. In historic neighborhoods, buyers pay premiums for wood frame charm. -
“Wood frame isn’t safe for tenants.”
If the foundation is good, the structure is sound, and it’s well-maintained, tenants are just as happy.
My Conclusion
So is block construction better than wood frame?
No. It’s different. Each has pros and cons. What matters is your strategy, the neighborhood, and the numbers.
If you can find a wood frame house at the right price, don’t be afraid of it. As long as the foundation is good, it can be a killer investment. Sometimes, cheaper is smarter.
I stand by what I said in that original video: this is an approved strategy. Don’t let fear or hearsay stop you from buying good deals just because they’re wood frame.
Final Thoughts
Real estate isn’t about following myths. It’s about making decisions with facts, math, and experience. Both block and wood frame homes can make you money if you buy right.
Keep it consistent, stay patient, stay true—if I did it, so can you. This is Jorge Vazquez, CEO of Graystone Investment Group and all our amazing companies, and Coach at Property Profit Academy. Thanks for tuning in—until the next article, take care and keep building!
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