There are many builders throughout the Nature Coast and subdivisions appear to be on the rise again. Did you know that more than 1,000 people move to Florida every day?

When looking for a general contractor to build your dream home, experience and stability are paramount in the list of qualifications.

“You don’t want a company getting part-way through the build and then find out they haven’t paid their ‘subs’,” explains Christine Quigley of Brannen Bank. “You can end up liable for the work that was done on your behalf.”

What is the Palmwood Legacy?

The Palmwood legacy goes back to 1957, when founder Ralph S. Glover started with the vision of creating Florida-style homes to accommodate the growing needs of West Central Florida.

People were discovering the unique beauty that Florida’s Nature Coast has to offer.

Starting his career in commercial construction up north, Ralph moved to Florida and began specializing in new home construction. As a forward-thinker, he used his skills and vision to establish numerous communities throughout the central Florida area.

Partnering with international and domestic investors, Ralph Glover Sr. created flourishing developments including Glen Lakes, River Country and River Run condominiums.

The Second Generation

Stuart Glover, the second generation, added his strength to the company in 1976, earning his State Certified Builder’s License and real estate broker’s license. Stuart earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Boston and Chicago.

Stuart took over management of Palmwood’s operations with a vision to expand its service north in 1989. Palmwood became a select builder in Sugarmill Woods in 1991, bringing its exceptional custom homes to Citrus County. Meanwhile, Ralph Glover Sr. created Glen Lakes, a private golf community of over 1,000 villa and estate homes in Hernando County, Florida

Palmwood introduced its innovative Cabana design to the Nature Coast. This unique courtyard-style home “wowed” guests, quickly becoming a popular design to build, as well as a “must-see,” unforgettable experience to visit. As demand increased, Palmwood designed variations including two-story, expanded guest/master wings, and smaller versions. Today, the Cabana remains a favorite.

Stuart Glover succeeded his father as President in 1995 and led the company toward the new millennium with a continued commitment to increase Palmwood’s impact and excellence.

The rest of the 90s found Palmwood active in building on individual homesites throughout the Nature Coast, as well as villas and custom estate homes in Silverthorn, an upscale golf community managed by the Arnold Palmer Group.

Moving into the Millennium

With the dawn of the 21st century, Palmwood introduced its Americana series. These well-built homes were designed for value. The Americana series homes are popular for people starting out, down-sizing, winter or holiday getaways, and those who preferred a simpler home.

The popularity of the Americana series resulted in increased designs, including a Cabana home. In combination with the Estate series custom estate homes, the American series expanded Palmwood’s product line of homes to fit every price range and lifestyle.

Palmwood was invited to become a featured builder in the champion-class golf communities of Lake Jovita and Hernando Oaks. The Casita series homes are particularly suited to these upscale neighborhoods, being designed provide spacious ambiance with 9-12-foot ceilings and rich amenities within a narrow lot.

The pressures of the economy, along with a greater appreciation for limited natural resources, increased Palmwood’s focus on building homes that are “green” and energy efficient. Eco-friendly features took prominence, with Palmwood’s Estate series homes earning an Energy Star rating for their efficiency.

Christopher E. Glover joined the company as Chief Operating Officer in 2006, leaving a successful career with Raymond James Financial to invest in his family’s heritage. Chris has been influential in injecting fresh vision to Palmwood.

To better serve the needs of its clients, Palmwood expanded its list of services to include room additions and remodeling, while renewing its role as a custom commercial builder in Florida’s Nature Coast.

History and Community

Since 1957, Palmwood has built a distinct and trusted name. Now with thousands of homes and numerous communities throughout the Nature Coast standing as a testament to its reputation for quality construction with dedicated service, Palmwood remains committed to building your Florida dream home with excellence.

Every new Palmwood home comes with a one (1) year builder’s warranty along with the backing of a bonded and 3rd party insured 2-10 Home Buyer’s Warranty that covers major systems like air conditioning, plumbing and electrical, as well as structural elements of the home.

Ralph S. Glover is still involved in guiding and oversight, lending wisdom gained from years of success through changes in the industry and the economy.

Stuart R. Glover currently is a managing member of Palmwood Construction LLC, and President of Palmwood Realty. He oversaw the construction of the Millennium Home in 2000, which was a collaborative effort of builders & tradesmen to benefit Habitat for Humanity.

Recognized in corporate and civic leadership, Stuart was selected for the Hernando County commissioners’ advisory committee, representing the building industry. He served as President of Hernando Builder’s Association in 2002 and continues to be an active board member.

For years he served on the steering committee of the Hernando County Summit, joining other community and government leaders to plan & forecast wise growth. Known for his integrity, Stuart Glover has led Palmwood for over three decades of expanding growth as the face of Florida’s Nature Coast changed significantly.

Today, Stuart Glover serves in teaching and leadership roles in a local church and is active on the board for his neighborhood Homeowner’s Association.

Christopher E. Glover represents the third generation of family leadership, managing day-to-day operations of Palmwood in the role of Chief Operating Officer. He has earned a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration/Finance with a minor in Economics from the University of Florida.

Chris served as President of the Hernando Builders Association in 2012 and was voted Builder of the Year in 2013 by the members of the Association.

The Palmwood Building Experience

Today, Palmwood is known as a custom builder. This means that you can take tour any of their model homes at 8245 River Country Drive or 14196 Spring Hill Drive and talk to an onsite salesperson from 10am to 5pm Monday through Saturday and noon to 5pm on Sundays.

The salesperson can show you any of Palmwood’s designs and help you customize the one that best suits your needs, tastes and budget to fit what you have in mind. This takes longer than going to a subdivision and purchasing a preconfigured house, but it allows the customer to get a home that is specifically tailored to their dreams.

“We have a designer on staff,” Philip Thompson shares, “This allows us to make changes as needed and provide proper architectural drawings for permitting throughout the process, saving time for our customers.” Philip has been working with Palmwood in sales for many years. “It is a family-owned company that truly cares about it customers, which makes my job easier.”

Chris enhances Palmwood’s scope and spectrum with new areas and fresh ventures. He strives to strengthen community relationships, contributing to Palmwood’s increased community presence. “Pushing our standards and customer service to an even greater level of excellence is my passion, Chris explains. He is deeply committed to ensuring that Palmwood continues as the present and future leader in the industry.