Beach Home: Dream or Nightmare?

Me, enjoying my life on the water, doing volunteer work with the baby sea turtles!

Living here in Flagler County, particularly in Palm Coast, reminds me of how continually grateful I am that I own a home on the Intracoastal Waterway. For me, this is paradise! I’ve lived in Florida near the ocean all my life, and it will always be “home” for me.

I love the people; the food; the shopping; the ocean; and all the nature (just to name a few!).

Beach Home: Dream or Nightmare?

Like most important decisions in life, buying a beach house needs to be a very practical, well-thought out decision. It’s easy to get caught up in the vision and the dream of a house on the beach.

Therefore, your dream might include the vision of jogging along the shoreline every morning; sipping coffee or wine on your deck facing the ocean; and your grandkids visiting from up north to stay with you during the summer months.

One of my listings: A gorgeous, ocean-front lot! Let’s look at it together and discuss the pros and cons! Click on this pic to get more info.

Oh, yes…that beautiful dream!

Whether your dream is of a primary or secondary beach house, however, don’t forget to put your thinking cap on in order to play devil’s advocate. The practical side must be analyzed, too, so that whatever you decide, you won’t regret your decision – whatever it is.

First, decide whether you want an existing water-front home or a house near the water (maybe a few blocks or miles from the ocean). Or, maybe you want to purchase a lot where you can build a brand new home.

Home Inspection is Crucial

As pretty and perfect a house may appear, the truth will only be revealed by getting a home inspection. Especially for homes on, or very near, the ocean or other bodies of water, such as the Intracoastal, home inspection is not an option. A home inspector tells you whether or not a house has been flooded, as well as how often. Flood damage is very destructive to electrical systems, foundations, and wood. It also causes unhealthy mold that is difficult to eliminate.

These damages can be severe and expensive to repair. Be aware of this before you allow yourself to fall in love with a house. Previous flood damage should be a deal breaker, unless you know exactly the details and costs of necessary repairs – and you are willing and able to have them properly fixed.

Other Considerations

This 2-bedroom could be the perfect second home or retirement home! It’s not oceanfront, but it’s located in an oceanfront community. Click on the photo to get more details and contact me for a showing!

Are you certain that waterfront property is the only property you’ll consider? What if you had a gorgeous home in a highly-regarded neighborhood, and only blocks from the ocean and beach?

Homes located in oceanfront communities might offer you more bang for your buck. And, you won’t have as many concerns about flooding and the extreme wear and tear that living oceanfront might bring.

As with any home-buying decision, remember to stay within your means, financially. After all, you want to be able to afford not only the cost of your new home, but the upkeep, regular maintenance, and furnishing it to reflect your awesome sense of style!

Consider the higher taxes, insurance, and any additional expenses you’ll have if you’re purchasing a waterfront home.

Your Beach Dream Come True!

Because there are so many considerations when looking for a beachfront home, much less any home, finding a realtor who lives in a waterfront home in the area, and who can help you find the perfect home for you – on or off the water – is crucial.

Contact me so that you never have to think of home-buying as a nightmare! I’ll help you find the perfect home for you so you’re confident and blissfully happy about your decision!

Contact me to help you find your perfect Flagler County home…

Dana Davis

Dana Davis Properties/DHR (Distinguished Homes Realty)

Phone: (386) 569-4998