Tips on Buying a Waterfront Home

Planning to purchase a lovely home right on the water? Follow these tips for a smooth move to a waterfront home.

• Find out whether the home has direct beach access and what exactly that means. Is the house a short walk from the beach or directly above it? Is the direct access private use or shared? Who is responsible for the maintenance and who is allowed to use it?
• If using the house for a vacation rental, or if planning to rent it out as one, do you need a vacation rental permit? This can take many weeks so do it as quickly as possible.
• Can you keep boats, jet skis or other watercraft? Is there a dock available for such storage?
• Are you planning any renovations? Make sure you know the limitations since waterfront remodeling can face some restrictions due to views and location.
• Has the house been inspected for termites? These nasty creatures are drawn to waterfront homes because of the salt air, and can be very costly to eliminate.