4 Expert Tips on Buying a Waterfront Home

Most people visualize owning a home near the lakeside or a small offshore farmhouse where they can spend time with their loved ones engaging in different kinds of watersports. You must admit the beautiful view in a waterfront home makes it an ideal real estate investment. When looking for such properties, a great place to search would be in states such as Florida, where millions of guests visit the region annually.

An outstanding benefit of waterfront homes is the overall beauty of the scenery. Just like any other investment property, you need to be aware of the issues arising from buying a waterfront home.

Whether you are purchasing the property as the main house or vacation house, it is essential to consider a few elements before making the final decision. This article highlights some expert tips that can guide you during the purchasing process of a waterfront home.

Know the Risks and Insurance Coverage

Insurance policies on waterfront homes are more expensive than in other real estate assets as they pose a unique set of challenges. Compared to the standard dwellings, properties near waterfronts encounter high winds and may suffer damage from the nearby water bodies.

With an insurance cover against floods, homeowners of properties that are more likely to suffer from the natural disaster will be charged a higher premium than their counterparts.

There are many available resources online that can assist you in estimating the premium of flood insurance on your waterfront home. On the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) website, FloodSmart.gov, you can read through the concerns of other waterfront property owners and evaluate the risk on your asset.

Inquire About Any Limitations on Building

A waterfront home provides an exquisite view; however, it may pose some restrictions on building. You can conduct a professional inspection to check on corrosion effects from the salty air, water intrusion in the underground room, or mold growth. Unlike in the purchase of a standard home, you may want to examine the water quality and attain certificates of elevation.

Your assets may be bound by building limitations on added structures which could be practical or statutory. Before commencing the new construction, ask whether there are any restrictions on structures you would want to put up.

Conduct Thorough Research

When planning to buy a waterfront home, do some background research on several factors such as the shoreline and water body. The shore tends to shift when dirt combines with water, making it important to examine the history and future state of the coast carefully. You could lose your property if the water level increases.

On the other hand, your waterfront home could be a few hundred yards from the water if the shoreline moves further away. Also, if you intend to go surfing, you may inquire about the depths of the water. Such information would be beneficial to homeowners who want to go boating as the depth of water influences the choice of boat.

Consult an Experienced Realtor

You want to work with a real estate agent that has previously handled the sale of waterfront homes and is familiar with the process. Since purchasing a waterfront property is different from the other standard assets, hire a qualified realtor. There are issues on structure and titles that only an experienced agent can advise you accordingly.

A real estate agent who deals with waterfront assets is best-suited to guide you through the purchase while answering all questions you may have regarding the transaction. The preferred realtor should be able to provide contact information and testimonials of customers they have worked with in the past.

Having a waterfront home is a lifelong dream for most people, and it is essential to follow stipulated guidelines during the purchase. With extensive research, you could be on your to owning your new house.