By: Joelle Andersen, TOMO
Looking to move to a home on the water? Dream of sipping coffee while staring out the window at a pond, lake, or any tranquil body of water? Sounds very relaxing, doesn’t it? If living on or near the water doesn’t help with mental health, we aren’t sure what will. So if in the market to purchase a waterfront home, or even a home with water views, Tomo, a real estate and mortgage company, curated a short-list of where to look around California. Also listed below are some tips to help buyers with their waterfront home search.
Check out these towns where waterfront properties are on the market right now:
Buying a waterfront home can be an exciting but also a complex process due to unique considerations like location, property condition, and regulations. Here are some tips to guide buyers through the process:
- Research the Area: Understand the specific waterfront location. Consider factors like proximity to amenities, flood risk, water access (dock or beach), views, and potential for future development in the area.
- Work with a Local Real Estate Agent: Find a real estate agent who specializes in waterfront properties. They will have local knowledge about regulations, zoning laws, flood zones, and other important factors specific to waterfront homes.
- Inspect the Property Thoroughly: Due diligence is crucial for waterfront homes. Have a comprehensive home inspection that includes structural integrity, flood risk assessment, seawall or shoreline condition, and the condition of any docks or piers.
- Understand Insurance Needs: Waterfront homes often require specialized insurance due to flood risk. Investigate flood insurance requirements and costs, as well as general homeowner’s insurance options. This can significantly impact your budget.
- Check Regulations and Permits: Waterfront properties are often subject to regulations regarding shoreline development, dock permits, water usage rights, and environmental protections. Ensure understanding of all these regulations and any associated costs or restrictions.
- Consider Resale Value: Evaluate the potential resale value of the waterfront home. Factors like proximity to urban centers, schools, and amenities, as well as the desirability of the waterfront location itself, can affect future property appreciation.
- Explore Financing Options: Financing for waterfront homes can differ from traditional homes due to higher insurance costs and stricter lending criteria. Research mortgage options tailored to waterfront properties and ensure securing a pre-approval before making an offer.
- Enjoy the Lifestyle: Lastly, consider the lifestyle benefits of owning a waterfront home. Whether it’s for relaxation, water activities, or stunning views, ensure the property aligns with lifestyle goals and enhances quality of life.
By following these tips and conducting thorough research, one can navigate the process of buying a waterfront home more confidently and ensure a well-informed decision. Keep in mind though, there are many pros and cons to any home purchase. Owning a home on the waterfront, whether directly on a lake or a view of the lake, has its own unique set of pros and cons. For some, it will seem like a permanent vacation since most people would be spending more time outdoors and as a result, reap the health benefits of clean air and more exercise. Additionally, people in waterfront homes may experience greater levels of peace and contentment. One of the primary attractions of waterfront homes is the stunning views of the water, whether it’s a lake, river, bay, or ocean. Waking up to or relaxing with waterfront views can be incredibly serene and therapeutic. But there are some cons, in addition to ones that were mentioned above. Like, noise pollution, risk of natural disasters, possible resale challenges and more. Sit back and think it through to see if owning a waterfront home is the right choice. Good luck!
Published By: Aize Perez
