Living along the coast gives residents year-round access to the beach and coastal communities – features that make beach life so appealing. Finding your perfect property, however, can take time. Often, new purchasers find that their must-have features lists contain only a few elements that are true dealmakers or breakers. Understanding the realities of living on the coast can help you find the right location and property for your lifestyle.
Use these considerations to find the perfect property:
Focus on the land, not the building. You can always change a home to meet your needs. You cannot, however, change the nature of the property. Low-lying areas, rocky hazards, and poor water access an all turn a waterfront experience sour. Think about how you will use the land to find a property and a home that meets your needs.
Work with a coastal real estate specialist. Coastal living is different from inland living. Maintenance, laws, and home features change the closer you move to the shoreline. A coastal real estate agent will help you identify ideal waterfront property conditions and the best deals in the local market. I live, work, and play around the coast. When you partner with us, we will show you the ins and outs of the best coastal properties available.
Investigate renovation possibilities. If you want to change the dock layout, shoreline, or other aspects of the property, you may need permission from the local government first. Find out the potential of the property if you’re not satisfied with it in its current state.
Feel out weather-related insurance coverage. Flood coverage availability and rates are changing, which could have a significant impact on real estate transactions in the near future. Sometimes, moving away from flood hot spots can provide a similar quality of life without as much risk. Talk to your real estate agent about industry changes to plan for coverage and identify the right time to buy.
Talk to neighbors. Pick your top three home contenders and meet the neighbors. Ask community members about their experiences living in the neighborhood. Neighbors can give you insider information about the area, amenities, residents, and what they consider the best part of living there. A real estate agent can provide you with a wealth of community and property information, but the people who live there can give you specific details that can help you narrow down your top choices.
Predict annual maintenance costs. When you live on the coast, the cost of living changes across the board. Some things are less expensive and some more so. In Florida, maintenance tends to cost more due to our extreme weather conditions. Consider both the price of the home and the cost of upkeep to make a smart investment.
In our real estate office, we strive to provide home purchasers with properties that deliver the right overall fit. We want you to feel confident in your purchase and coastal living experience. Use these coastal purchasing considerations to invest in a coastal property you can enjoy for years to come.
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