Nance Hatch, December 18, 2019

Tips for Buying Land Near Waterfront

Updated: 2020-01-15 14:26:29

Looking at a beautiful spot of water from your home or being near waterfront is the Florida ideal. Here are some things to keep in mind as you search for your dream waterfront property.

Tip #1: In Why Buy Land in Florida you’re buying a Florida lifestyle when you buy a waterfront property. To help you make a decision about the type of property to buy, think about what you’ll do at the property. If it’s boating, is there easy access to the Gulf, ICW or inlets? If it’s for water sports, is the water big enough and calm enough to enjoy a paddleboard cruise or go kayaking? Choose the property that best fits your waterfront wishes.

Tip #2: As in all properties, look at what you’re allowed to do with the property. If there’s a dock, is it in good shape? If it needs to be rebuilt, what are the restrictions for doing that? 

Tip #3: Check to make sure there are utilities. If you plan on building on the property, utilities are important for insuring you’ll have electric, water, sewer and putting them in yourself can be costly. If the utilities are already there you’re that much ahead of the game when it comes to building.

Tip #4: Do you need flood insurance? Depending upon the type of financing you get flood insurance may be required. Floodsmart.gov is a great government resource for flood insurance information.

Tip #5: Talk to the neighbors. Who better to know the good and not-so-good about an area than the neighbors? Strike up a conversation and ask them questions and you’ll get a wealth of information that will help you make a b'etter-informed decision.

Tip #6: Know the body of water you’ll be on with your property. Depths, tidal flow, types of wildlife that inhabit the water, rough or calm water all have an impact on the property and the way you’ll use it. In Florida, it’s common on fresh water for alligators to be present so be aware of that if you buy a land with a big pond or lake.

Tip #7: Be proactive with financing. As in all real estate purchases doing your due diligence up front makes you ready for your waterfront land purchase. That’s important because there’s less waterfront properties available so it can be more competitive to buy them. Waterfront is a more expensive purchase than a regular lot, so the financing amount is larger. Some land sellers like getlandflorida.com offer easy financing for land. Having your financing in place allows you to be prepared to move quickly when you find your dream waterfront property.