Waterfront and Beachfront Homes

Waterfront and Beachfront Homes homes are unique – you get both land and water. In fact, they offer a luxury lifestyle that many people can only dream about. If you are planning to buy one you should know that you don’t take into account the same considerations as when you are buying an ordinary home.

These homes are much more vulnerable, and if you are not careful you can easily find yourself with a property that is more of a headache than a comfort. Here are some tips to help you buy a home that you will enjoy living in:

• Have a thorough inspection done. Water is tough on property, and waterfront homes and condos in Panama City Beach, Florida have to deal with 2 threats – the high water table, and salt from sea water. A thorough inspection will ensure that you catch any problems that the home may have. Have an independent inspector do it.

• Inspect the property too. Not all waterfront homes in Panama City, Florida, are the same. You may find that a great home is set on a cliff, so it is impossible to get your boat on the water, or that you have to travel a distance to get to the beach. You should go around the property to make sure that it is really what you want.

• Make sure that you check the insurance. These homes often have higher insurance because of the risk of damage, and although you may be able to afford the property the insurance may be more than you can pay for.

• Look for a deal. Many people buy waterfront property only to find that it is not what they thought it should be. Ask your real estate agent to find you someone like this, because they will be ready to sell at a lower price.  Feel free to use our Property Search.

• Find out what you can and cannot do with the property. Start with a Neighborhood Report.  The city has laws about what additions can be made to waterfront homes, so if you are planning modifications you should find out what is allowed. Look into what activities are allowed on the beach as well.

• Your real estate agent may be great at finding ordinary homes, but it doesn’t mean that they will be able to find you a good beachfront home. If you want to get a home that you will love you should look for an agent who has experience with waterfront homes.

• Get your financing in order well in advance. Because waterfront homes are more expensive lenders tend to be more reluctant to lend. You will however, stand a better chance of getting a mortgage if you have a sizable down payment in place.

• Keep in mind that your home will require quite a bit of maintenance. Find out from the seller and the real estate agent what kind of maintenance needs to be done and how much you will need to spend every year.

Lastly, convenience is key if you plan to make the home your primary residence. You should buy a home that is close to the places that you frequent every day.