Back Home8 Things to Consider when Buying a Waterfront Home On Marco Island
Blog by Tony Walter
Are you looking to buy a waterfront home? If so there are a lot of things to consider. From how the view can impact the value of a home to who you might see in your backyard, another person or an alligator. Below is a list of 8 things to consider when buying a waterfront home. Ask the Walter Team for the best waterfront home deals on Marco Island.
#1 The View
Not all views are equal! Does the home have an bay view, canal view, man-made lake view or a converging water view? The type of view a home has can impact its overall value and understanding the pricing differences is imperative. Marco Island waterfront views are unique and these views can establish a basis for market value. Ask the Walter Team for details.
#2 Type of Usage
It’s important to find out if the location is direct access or indirect access. Direct access means there are NO bridges to take you boat under. What size boat will you have? Ask the Walter Team for the best boating options given your circumstances.
#3 Privacy
Living on the water may provide less privacy and understanding how much or how little privacy there will be is crucial. Is there any easements or public access points between the home and water? Can anyone walk on these easements behind the property? Can a fence be installed around the home? Some homes are located in communities that will not allow fences if the home is located on a waterfront lot while others may allow fences with restrictions.
#4 Climate
The climate for waterfront homes can vary, it all depends on the location. Marco Island is the best climate for year round boating. 70% of the properties on Marco Island are waterfront property. Which on best fits your needs? Ask the Walter Team.
#5 Insurance
The cost of homeowners insurance can vary greatly for waterfront homes and the type of insurance needed can vary too. Most insurance agents will be more than happy to provide an estimate for homeowners insurance and it’s highly recommended obtaining this information prior to submitting an offer so there are no surprises.
#6 Maintenance
Additional maintenance may be required for a waterfront home, so it’s essential to find out how the water will impact the home. Will the salt from the ocean impact the exterior of the home? Salt in the air can cause corrosion on metal surfaces; patio furniture, BBQ’s, outside decorations. Can insects or animals from the canal damage the exterior of the home? Home maintenance can add up quickly and sometimes homes on the water, depending on the type of water, may need more maintenance than others. Ask the Walter Team.
#7 Additional Features
Are there additional features included with the waterfront home for sale, such as a dock or boat slip? Just like the type of view impacts a home’s value so will the additional features. Is the dock public or private, is it deeded, and who’s responsible for maintaining it? Ask the Walter Team.
#8 Waterfront Realtor
No matter what type of property you’re purchasing you should always hire an agent who not only specializes in your area of interest but sells there too. A top Realtor will know the in’s and out’s of purchasing a waterfront home and will be able to walk you through the home buying process. The Walter Team is that type of realtor, so Ask The Walter Team.
Final Thoughts
There are many advantages to owning a home on the water, but there may be a few disadvantages too. So it’s important when looking to purchase a waterfront home to understand all of the pros, cons and costs associated with owning a waterfront home. Ask the Walter Team today!
