Buying house below Base Flood Elevation (BFE) at Jersey Shore

[Rob U.]

Hi all - I'm hoping to close on my first investment property (!!!) and considering buying a house at the Jersey shore in the Seaside, NJ area. The house is below the BFE determined by FEMA, but have confirmed with the town that it was NOT substantially damaged by hurricane Sandy in 2012.

Is it reasonable to still proceed with the sale since it wasn’t substantially damaged in Sandy despite the home being below the BFE?

Any and all answers are much appreciated! I’m trying to consider all variables while learning along the way, so thanks in advance for any input!