Living in a beautiful waterfront property in Florida is a dream come true for those who love the ocean. The stunning scenery and fresh air quality are just a few benefits of investing in a house near the water. However, before you invest in a waterfront property, it is essential to consider a few significant factors. Reviewing them beforehand can help prevent any unpleasant surprises and unexpected expenses down the line.
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1. Home Features
Before buying a waterfront property in Florida, you need to pay close attention to the way the house is built. All waterfront houses must be able to withstand specific environmental factors that affect their integrity and longevity. Things to pay attention to include:
- Storm shutters - these shutters provide a proactive defense against high winds and flying debris, ensuring the safety of both the property and its occupants.
- Stainless steel hardware - this material resists corrosion caused by the saltwater environment, increasing the longevity of fixtures such as door handles, hinges, and railings.
- Tall foundation – when a property is elevated, it's less likely to sustain water damage during storms or high tides.
- Proper drainage system - proper drainage keeps water from accumulating around the property, helps prevent potential flooding issues, and protects the foundation.
2. Flood Insurance
When reviewing the pros and cons of waterfront property in Florida, you have to evaluate the potential expenses associated with flood insurance. Due to the state's vulnerability to hurricanes and tropical storms, many waterfront areas are at a higher risk of flooding.
As a result, insurance companies often require homeowners to obtain flood insurance to protect their investments. The cost of flood insurance can vary depending on several factors, including the property's location, elevation, and previous flood history.
By factoring in the potential expenses for this insurance, you can make informed decisions about the real cost of the waterfront property.
3. Property Maintenance
Due to its proximity to the water, a waterfront property requires special maintenance. This includes inspecting and repairing any damage to the seawall, maintaining proper drainage systems, and regularly cleaning and maintaining the landscaping.
You also have to schedule routine inspections of the property's foundation, plumbing, and electrical systems to identify and address problems before they turn into costly disasters.
Consider the extra maintenance when evaluating the time and effort you'll need to keep your waterfront property in top shape.
4. Shoreline Erosion History
One of the key things to consider before buying a waterfront property in Florida is the way the shoreline has eroded over time. By examining historical records, consulting with experts, and observing neighboring properties, you can determine the level of erosion risk associated with the location. Significant shoreline erosion means that your potential property is in danger of:
- Weak structural integrity
- Worsening the living environment
- Decreased water quality
To prevent further shoreline erosion, you can build a seawall. A seawall acts as a protective barrier, that minimizes the impact of waves and tides on the property. Constructing a well-designed seawall with durable materials provides stability and safeguards the shoreline from further erosion.
If there is already a seawall on the property, you need to evaluate its condition to understand whether it requires further investments.
At Duncan Seawall, we have extensive experience installing and repairing seawalls. Before you buy a waterfront property in Florida, our team can assess the existing seawall's condition or provide an estimate for the new seawall's installation. To learn more, please contact us today.
