How to buy a waterfront home

Dated: December 13 2022

Views: 66

 

For many people, owning a waterfront property is the stuff dreams are made of. A place to relax on the weekends, entertain family and friends, and enjoy all that nature has to offer. But if you're thinking of purchasing a waterfront home, there are a few things you need to take into consideration first.

 

Location

One of the most important factors to consider when purchasing any property, but especially a waterfront one, is location. You'll want to take into account things like proximity to amenities, the quality of the schools in the area, and whether or not the neighbourhood is quiet and family-friendly. But with a waterfront property, there are also things like weather patterns and water quality to consider. Do your research and make sure you're comfortable with both the neighbourhood and the body of water itself before making an offer on a waterfront home.

 

Home owner's association fees

If you're buying a property that's part of a development or community like Friday Harbour in Innisfil Ontario, you'll be required to pay monthly condo fees & yearly fees to the home owner's association. These fees help to maintain common areas like swimming pools and tennis courts, as well as pay for things like snow removal and landscaping upkeep. When you're considering purchasing a waterfront property, be sure to factor in these additional costs so there are no surprises down the road.

 

Potential for flooding

If you live in an area that's prone to flooding, it's important to factor that into your decision when buying any property - but especially a waterfront property. In many cases it will be disclosed if your are purchasing a home on flood plain. No one wants to be caught unaware if their home is suddenly inundated with water. Be sure to do your homework and find out if there's any risk of flooding before signing on the dotted line for your new lakefront retreat.

 

Environmental Considerations

When buying a home on the water you will need to be familiar with limitations on what you can do with the property. Environmental organizations like the Lake Simcoe Conservation Authority limit what can be done on land in close proximity to Lake Simcoe and what can be done in and on the Lake Simcoe. If you have a shoreline with lots of weeds, you may be very limited on how you manage it. If you want to build a boathouse, it may not be permitted. These regulations are in place to protect the lakes eco-system. Be very clear on what you are looking to accomplish with your new property. A local realtor who is familiar with waterfront properties will be able to help guide you.

 

Conclusion:

Purchasing a lakefront property can be a wonderful investment - but it's important to do your research first. You ask most people if waterfront property is a good investment, they will probably tell you yes, because they stopped making it a long time ago. Meaning that once its purchased, you just can't make more. With a little bit of planning and making sure you are consulting with people who are familiar with waterfront, you can be sure that your new lakefront home will be everything you've ever dreamed of - and more!

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Paul Partridge

Paul was born in Barrie and raised on military bases around the world. Living a bit of a nomad lifestyle through the military, Paul has a solid understanding of what is required to picking up and mov....

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