5 Tips for Maintaining a Waterfront Home

Having a waterfront property is a dream come true for many owners. It makes a valuable investment, especially for people who are craving to feast on spectacular views and the stillness of the water feature every single day. It can also be a gateway to water-related recreational activities like swimming, surfing, fishing, and boating.

 

What is a Waterfront Home?

A waterfront home is defined as a house with easy access and proximity to the water, whether natural or artificial waterway, such as a lake, river, channel, or canal. A waterfront property is usually separated from the water by a right-of-way, private road, or unopened road.

Waterfront homes offer peace and relaxation and even an active lifestyle near bodies of water. However, this property requires higher maintenance and more upkeep to stay in shape all year round.

 

What are the Benefits of Owning a Waterfront Property?

Some advantages of having a waterfront property are as follows:

• Higher appreciation – Waterfront homes are considered a luxury, so if you sell, you don’t just sell a property but a lifestyle as well. This gives them a higher appreciation rate as compared to townhomes and typical types of houses.

• Better market value – Waterfront properties rarely depreciate, so if you ever decide to sell your home by the beach or the lake, you will likely enjoy a good return on investment. This type of home is often described as “recession-resistant” because they tend to grow in value and are more resistant to market downturns than landlocked properties.

• Sell faster – Waterfront homes are in demand for the upscale community. Many people and families who can afford one property usually buy a vacation home for relaxation, which makes waterfront homes easier to sell to them.

• Health benefits – Investing in homes near bodies of water and far away from bustling cities has been scientifically proven to reduce stress levels. Living closer to nature improves the quality of the air you breathe, your mood, and your overall well-being.

 

5 Tips to Keep a Waterfront Property in Good Condition

If you have a waterfront home or are planning to buy one, these tips can help you maintain your property.

 

1. Weatherproof your property

Waterfront properties are no stranger to weather extremities. Regardless of where your property is in the U.S., it’s important to build up your home’s defenses. Use weatherproof sealants to avoid corrosion when treating metal roofing, pipes, and fixtures. You can also paint or seal wooden furniture to ward off rot. Lubricating exposed hinges, bolts, and locks are also essential to reduce heat damage.

If you live in a waterfront home by the beach, don’t let saltwater and sand linger on surfaces since saltwater can accelerate the deterioration of materials like timber or bricks. If you aren’t staying on the property during winter, ensure your pipes won’t freeze. Board up your windows as a safety precaution from intruders or windblown debris.

 

2. Watch out for molds and moisture

Waterfront areas are humid, which translates to cold and damp areas attracting mold and mildew. Look out for areas where there is unwanted mold growth. If you spot one, pour a bleach solution and scrub it to prevent further growth.

Continuously monitor the moisture levels in your home and invest in a dehumidifier to reduce indoor dampness. Dehumidifiers can help improve air quality and also get rid of allergens and dust. Make sure fresh air can circulate through every room on the property, especially in the attic if you have one. Proper ventilation makes a huge difference in managing humidity in your home.

 

3. Make your property pest-free

Termites and mosquitoes thrive on waterfront properties, so it’s vital that you eliminate their breeding grounds, like in damp areas where soil meets wooden structures. Patch holes in the wood immediately and close gaps where termites can nest.

On the other hand, mosquitoes love stagnant water, so make sure you divert water away or don’t let water collect or stay for a long time in a particular area in your home. Always mow the grass and pull weeds to keep off debris in your home’s vicinity. Call a pesticide control expert if necessary to ensure your home is pest-free.

 

4. Schedule regular cleaning and maintenance

Routine cleaning and maintenance work is essential for properties near a body of water. Waterfront living gives your plenty of privacy, and these homes cover larger areas, so it inevitably comes with higher upkeep. This sometimes includes dock maintenance, landscaping, and maintaining patio furniture. Check the roof from time to time if there are leaks to avoid costlier repairs.

You can also be strategic with the materials used in your home. For example, opting for fiberglass windows and door frames helps minimize the risk of corrosion, especially since your home is more exposed to various surrounding elements.

 

5. Get home insurance

Whether local laws require you to get insurance for your waterfront property or not, it’s imperative that you secure one. Waterfront homes are considered luxury properties, and this type of property must come with insurance. Waterfront homes are located close to large bodies of water, so be sure to top up with flood insurance to expand your property’s coverage. You don’t want to shell out a hefty sum of money for repairs if the unexpected happens. Make sure you compare two or three home insurance policies to get the best insurance coverage for the property.

 

Takeaway

Waterfront properties are a great investment to have. And with enough knowledge, the right tools, and professional assistance, seamlessly maintaining a waterfront home is possible.

Meanwhile, if you’re looking for a waterfront home, Shorefront Investments, can be of help. We sell different types of homes and accept properties in any condition at reasonable amounts.

Ring us at (850) 713-4866 or send an email to info@shorefront-investments.com to get started. One of our representatives will reach out to you to schedule a viewing, make a cash offer, and discuss the next steps.