Buying a waterfront home is complicated and differs significantly from purchasing a house on a tree-lined territory. Acquiring a waterfront home doesn’t entail only purchasing a piece of property but also “buying” into a unique lifestyle.
Here are a few essential tips to keep in mind for those who wish to buy waterfront properties for sale.
1. Hire a Pro Real Estate Agent
Finding the right real estate agent, particularly one who specializes in waterfront properties, can be difficult. Many real estate agents have limited experience with waterfront properties. Such agents may find it challenging to find the right waterfront property you desire.
Therefore, it’s necessary to ask critical questions to determine whether they have sufficient expertise in this area. A waterfront professional real estate agent is well-versed in both the positive and negative aspects of waterfront land.
2. Assess the Entire Property
Many people tend to purchase a property by merely looking at it. But keep in mind that you’re not just buying a regular house. You are purchasing a beachfront property for a particular purpose. Consider things like privacy, views, water access, and lots of other factors. With these factors in mind, you’ll be able to find the ideal waterfront property for you. Having those extras would guarantee even more fun at the waterfront property.
3. Research the Surrounding Water Body Water
When purchasing a waterfront house, it is ideal to do thorough research on the surrounding water body. There are a few essential things to note about the body of water surrounding the property you intend to buy.
If you are going to use a boat on your waterfront property, it’s essential to learn about the water depths. Different types of boats have their depths for boating which can differ significantly. For example, the depth required for a sailboat is not identical to that of a pontoon boat.
Another vital piece of information to consider when buying a waterfront home with the motive of swimming in the pool is the water quality—obtaining facts such as if the body is weed-infested or whether there are any potentially harmful fish present like jellyfish is vital if you wish to swim in the water.
4. The Structure Should Withstand Different Seasons
Waterfront homes can be severely damaged at any time of year. These properties are not compatible with natural elements. Hence, it can be challenging to live there when the weather is terrible. It is riskier than traditional homes because it is located by the seashore.
There should be storm shutters to provide excellent security during storms. On the other hand, Stainless steel locks will offer the best security because they do not rust.
5. Inspect the Area Extensively and Thoroughly
Water can be pleasing to the eye, but it may be damaging to a structure. A professional inspection will help you uncover challenging situations that you may face. It can help you discover if water penetrates the basement due to a high water table, corrosion on the exterior due to salt air, or mildew and mould problems due to elevated moisture levels in the air.
For a waterfront property, water quality tests, surveys, elevation permits, and other ground and water-based inspections that may not be necessary on a regular house can be crucial.
6. Be Aware of the Change in Water Levels
It’s essential to check that the water level in the water body close to you is relatively stable. When purchasing beachfront property, endeavor to visit the area during both high and low tides.
Water can come dangerously close to some high-tide assets, exposing them to flooding. At low tide, though, the view of mud, garbage, and trash can be unappealing.
For lakefront properties, water levels may differ dramatically, but these fluctuations occur seasonally rather than daily. Inquire about the lake’s appearance from month to month with your broker and potential neighbors.
7. Know What You Can Do With the Property
Whenever you plan to make improvements and changes to your waterfront house, like adding a porch, seawall, or roof, first ensure that such changes are allowed or if there are any requirements before making such changes.
Government policies are rigid with property changes, and it won’t be nice to buy a million-dollar property with restrictions on what you can and can’t do. Also, find out what activities are allowed while in the water. Some areas prohibit speed boats, jet skis, and other watercraft.
8. Know Your Responsibilities as a Waterfront Homeowner
Once you buy a waterfront property, you become a member of the homeowners’ association. As a part of this association, you will get updates on services and maintenance. The association also helps to find out more about the property’s legal limitations and legal appeal terms. Being a member of the homeowner’s association would help you discover the kind of maintenance the government association would allow.
9. Check for Hidden Fees
Waterfront properties often come with hidden costs that consumers may not know. River and sewage tariffs are often more costly than inland rates for newcomers. Any waterfront homes with private boat docks can have additional fees for dock repairs and maintenance.
Endeavor to find out if the property requires additional insurance before buying. Some waterfront properties need such extra insurance, and your insurance company can help with that. These additional hidden fees are what you should check.
You can find waterfront properties here if you’re looking for exclusive waterfront properties for sale. With an experienced realtor in Naples, Fl, you’re guaranteed an excellent client experience. We have Naples, Florida beachfront homes for sale and Naples waterfront homes for sale.
Final Thoughts
Purchasing a waterfront property for sale differs significantly from buying a regular home on a neighborhood street. Before buying a waterfront property, prospective buyers must weigh several factors.
Following the nine tips for purchasing a waterfront home mentioned above, you would have a significant advantage over buyers who are unsure what advice to take when buying a waterfront home.