Beach front living is at the top of many people’s “would love to have” list. Warm, tropical climates and breathtaking views make living in a beach front home feel like a slice of heaven. Move into a beach front home and you can go boating, jet skiing or ocean swimming less than five minutes after you step outside your front door.
Great beach front homes are about more than the shore
Because of their robust outdoor offerings, beach front houses are not cheap. That’s a major drawback to living on the shore. Yet, it isn’t the only downside. Before you buy a house on the beach, discuss these items with your realtor.
Floor plan – An open floor plan offers a true beach home feel. On the flip side, if the house is going to be your permanent home, you may want a traditional floor plan.
Foundation -To keep your house safe during a flood or storm, you could buy a home that’s designed with pilings. Should ocean waters rise to flood level, the interior of your house can stay dry. Water would drift beneath your house, not inside your basement. You would still have to protect your windows from strong winds.
Windows and Doors – Thermal aluminum and fiberglass windows and doors are durable.Retailers also sell vinyl thermal windows and doors. These windows are often used as replacement windows. Not only are these windows strong, they help to insulate your home. So too do thermal doors. In addition to keeping you warm on cool days, thermal windows and doors help lower your utility bill.
So much to love and think about when buying a beach front home
The right preparation can make buying a house on the beach a decision that pays off for years. You’ll have plenty of chances to meet people from the region. You might even meet people from other parts of the world.
Tourists love the beach. Even if you buy a house near the shore in a quiet town, tourists will likely venture near your house as they make their way to the water. Buy an ocean front house as a second home and you could generate income from your house by renting it out during off seasons.
Wood floors – Move into an ocean front house and you probably won’t have to worry about vacuuming. Hardwood floors at these houses are a gorgeous cherry red or medium or dark brown. North Carolina, Georgia and South Carolina are just a few places where you can find traditional or Victorian style beach front homes that are eighty years or older.
Boardwalk – Towns along the New Jersey shore have popular boardwalks. It’s at the boardwalk where you can find quaint shops, restaurants and entertainment. Some major entertainers got their start performing at clubs along boardwalks.
Large properties – You won’t generally lack for land if you own a beach front home. Yards at these properties appear to stretch all the way from your house to the ocean. If you have pets, they will love frolicking on your property.
The more spacious a beach front home, generally the higher the price tag on the house.You could save by going with a cottage house. Less floor space isn’t a drawback, especially if you plan on spending the majority of your time outdoors.