Waking up to soothing sounds of rolling waves and taking in panoramic views of the water every day is certainly an enticing thought for many of us. Before you can savor the views and the fresh air however, you’ll need to navigate your way through the home buying process.
Buying a waterfront home can present unique problems that you normally won’t need to deal with if you were buying a conventional home. If you’re searching for the best waterfront homes for sale in Charleston, SC, here are a few important things to keep in mind:
Work with a realtor who specializes in waterfront properties
The average real estate agent won’t have extensive knowledge on waterfront homes, which you will need in order to get the best deal for a property that fits your needs. Without an experienced waterfront home specialist at your side, you could end up buying a waterfront home with issues that might only reveal themselves later on after you’ve moved in.
Choose location wisely
Location is already an important factor when you’re buying any type of property, but it becomes a more specific problem when you’re in the market for a waterfront home. Some people are fully content with the relaxing views, others love being close to waterside restaurants and shops, while others enjoy activities like fishing or boating.
Take a closer look at your reasons for buying a waterfront home, think about what you’d enjoy the most, and find a location that will give you the most out of your purchase.
Find out if there are any additional guidelines in the area
When you’re buying a waterfront home, find out if there are any existing rules or guidelines you’ll need to comply with once you’re a homeowner.
In some waterfront communities for example, there are organizations and coastal commissions that establish certain guidelines covering what you may or may not do when it comes to renovating or building new additions for your home. Remember to keep this in mind if you’re planning to upgrade the home right after you’ve bought it.
Talk to the current residents
You might be able to get inside information on the area just by trying to strike a conversation with some of the current homeowners. Ask them what they enjoy about living in the area, if they’ve encountered any water-related problems, and if there’s anything you should know about the home you’re planning to purchase.
Know your responsibilities as a homeowner
If you’re going to be a member of the homeowners’ association in your neighborhood, get information regarding the required maintenance and upkeep of your home by checking the conditions, covenants, and restrictions or CC&Rs. If possible, try to get in touch with the HOA’s management company to get more info about your responsibilities.
Choose from the best selection of waterfront homes for sale in Charleston, SC today! Just get in touch with me at 843.568.1118, or send an email to robertjstaylor(at)gmail(dotted)com