Buying a house is certainly rewarding, but it can be challenging as well. However, if your goal is to own a North Carolina waterfront property, you will likely encounter different issues from those surrounding the purchase of a land-locked property. For example, you might be wondering if you should buy a Kill Devil Hills property or choose a more secluded location. You will have to decide if you are willing to undertake the additional maintenance responsibilities encountered by waterfront property owners. And you will most likely encounter a price differential the closer you buy to the water.
And speaking of costs, the cost calculations for your dream home needs to include your move and moving costs. These should not be separated, as planning your move and choosing your property both require a lot of research and good preparation. There will also be many decisions you’ll need to make for a successful purchase and move.
The choice of location is certainly one of the most significant decisions but you’ll also need to create a budget for your relocation. Finally, you’ll need to decide if you want to handle the packing and move or if you want professionals movers to get you to the destination and schedule your move on time. And keep in mind that these are only some of the many choices that only you can make.
Homebuyers need to know what their needs and wants are in order to find the home of their dreams. There are many fantastic waterfront properties in NC, but you need to find the one that will allow you to live the life you want and do the activities you enjoy.
Find the right real estate agent
A real estate agent that does not have experience in selling waterfront homes might not be able to help you make the best decision.
What you need is an agent who has a detailed knowledge of waterfront real estate in the area of your choice. Due to these properties’ special characteristics, you might fall into the trap of believing that you’ve found a great deal. However, the reality might be that a lower price is caused by things that wouldn’t even come to your mind, such as oyster beds that prevent the access of boats!
Choose the perfect location
We all know how important location is in the world of real estate. While the professionals from statetostatemove.com can bring your belongings anywhere you like, it’s up to you to find the perfect location for your new home.
When searching for a waterfront property in NC, you will probably consider the access and proximity to water. However, keep in mind that if your main priority is peace and quiet, privacy is one factor you need to consider. Imagine reading a book and enjoying the view of the ocean horizon, only to be interrupted by the noise of tourists and boats. Unless you want to get up at 4 AM to have your moment, it’s probably a good idea to look for another location.
Also, remember that it’s not only about the water. Just like with land-locked properties, make sure there are shops and other amenities nearby. In case you have medical needs, the proximity to the hospital rather than the yacht club might be more important to you. The driving distance to your office and traffic jams in the area are probably just as critical as access to the water.
You’re not only buying the water view
Aside from the house, you’re also choosing the body of water. And this does not mean that you’re only buying the water view.
Purchasing a waterfront estate means that you should research the body of water the property overlooks. In North Carolina, there is a great choice of lakefront properties, riverfront, and beachfront properties overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. It comes down to what type you prefer, and once you have no doubts about that part, you need to do thorough research on the body of water of your choice.
Water bodies have different characteristics, such as depth, size, quality of water, etc. Depending on your reason for purchasing a waterfront estate, make sure that the water body of your choice will fulfill your expectations.
If you plan to use a boat, check if the water depth will not be an issue. But, if your main goal is swimming, you don’t want polluted water or water with dangerous animals.
Finally, the history of the shoreline should play an important part when making your decision. Shores move and erosions might occur, so it’s better to know it in advance.
Choose a property that fits your lifestyle
When searching for waterfront properties, many people forget how important it is that the location suits their lifestyle. For example, Wristeville Beach in the Wilmington area or Myrtle Beach are excellent options if you want to enjoy the urban nightlife scene. On the other hand, buying a property on Lake Waccamaw, for example, provides an entirely different kind of experience.
If your new home is half an hour away from the ocean, and you love surfing, chances are that you won’t enjoy the sport very often. For that reason, focus on the activities you love doing and make sure to choose the location and the property accordingly. By focusing on your priorities and deciding what really matters to you, you will have a better chance of living the life you want.
How often will you stay at your waterfront home? If you’re a year-round resident, living in an ocean view home might be more convenient. On the other hand, if you’re buying a house for seasonal use, an oceanfront home might better suit your needs.
Take care of the important details
When buying a waterfront property in North Carolina, it’s easy to get carried away. However, you shouldn’t forget about the not-so-exciting, yet important details, such as maintaining your property, flood insurance requirements, and your responsibilities as a waterfront property owner.