5 Things to Know About Buying a House on the Beach
As with any real estate purchase, location is key. If you are planning on using your beach house as a vacation property, then you will want to ensure that you can get there easily on a regular basis.
You should also carefully consider the size of the home you need. You will almost certainly be sharing your beach house with friends and family, so you should make sure that it is large enough for everyone to relax in comfort.
1. Location
The most important thing to consider when buying a house on the beach is its location. You want to be close enough to enjoy the water, but also within a reasonable driving distance so you can avoid the crowds and traffic of peak times.
You should also consider your family and friends’ preferences. If you have kids or elderly relatives with mobility issues, being right on the sand might not be a great choice.
Additionally, you’ll want to be aware of the potential impact of hurricanes or other severe weather. This will have an effect on how much you pay for homeowners insurance, as well as any extra mandatory flood insurance. A local insurance agent can help you understand these details and find the best policy for your budget.
2. Size
Whether it gets used only in the summer or occupied year-round, a beach house can be a significant investment. That’s why it’s essential to do your homework before committing to this major purchase.
One crucial consideration is the size of the property, especially how close to the water it sits. This will influence resale value, insurance rates and flood risk.
Additionally, a beach house might require specific building materials due to its coastal location. Strong winds and salt spray can corrode building materials that are perfectly robust further inland. If you want to be able to host frequent visitors, a beach house with multiple bedrooms is a good option. It’ll also increase your rental potential. If possible, visit a beach during different times of the day to gauge the noise level.
3. Amenities
There’s nothing quite like waking up to gorgeous beach views and hearing the gentle waves crashing against the shore. However, the benefits of owning a beachfront home don’t stop with the breathtaking views. Beach houses have higher price tags than those inland and typically require more maintenance and insurance costs.
If your beach house is a vacation rental, guests will want to be sure that it’s easy to get to the sand and back. Providing a beach cart, whether it’s a simple wagon or a golf cart, can help ease guests’ concerns about the distance to the water and may make your property more appealing to travelers.
Similarly, offering a fire pit in the backyard can boost your rental’s appeal to families. Bonfires aren’t allowed on all beaches, but your guests will appreciate the opportunity to enjoy one in a private space.
4. Price
Depending on the size and location of the property, prices can vary considerably. Typically, beach houses are more expensive than those away from the shore. This is mainly because they are attractive to travelers and offer better resale value.
Additionally, a house on the beach may have higher insurance costs. This is due to the risk of floods and other natural disasters. You should be ready to pay extra for the homeowners insurance and have a sufficient budget for recurring maintenance.
Whether you are looking for a weekend getaway or a serene home to live in full-time, buying a house on the beach is a smart investment if you have the money. However, it is essential to do your homework first and assess the financial implications before diving in.
5. Maintenance
Whether you’re looking for a small abode to enjoy a few weeks of summer fun or you want to live there year-round, a beach house will require more maintenance and upkeep than a traditional home. As a result, these homes come with higher mortgage costs and homeowners insurance rates.
Additionally, salt air can wear on a home, leading to rust and corrosion. To protect your investment, look for signs of corrosive damage such as metal window frames and door hardware or cracked drywall.
Finally, you’ll need to consider the noise level. Talk to neighbors and visit the property at night to get a feel for the activity in the neighborhood. This is particularly important if you plan to use the property for rental income.
As with any real estate purchase, location is key. If you are planning on using your beach house as a vacation property, then you will want to ensure that you can get there easily on a regular basis. You should also carefully consider the size of the home you need. You will almost certainly be…