If your dream is to live on the water, you’re not alone. Lake or riverfront living is the dream of many and, if you own a boat, it’s understandable that you want to buy a home with a place to keep your “baby.”
Let’s take a look at a few things to consider before shopping for waterfront property.
Do you need to shore up the shoreline?
Erosion is always a concern when water laps against land. Have the homeowners done anything to stabilize the shoreline, such as planting native vegetation, install riprap and retaining walls?
Keep in mind that building permits are required for any retaining wall over 1.2m in height.
Will you need flood insurance?
Even if you live in a low-risk area, the pros at Co-operators recommend that you carry flood/storm surge insurance.
“If you live in an area with low or moderate flood risk, you are 5 times more likely to experience flood than a fire in your home over the next 30 years,” they claim.
Because homeowners’ insurance doesn’t cover flood damage, if you live inside or in close proximity to an area with a high risk of flood, purchase flood insurance.
To get a personal flood assessment you can visit their website here:
Dock considerations
If the home you have your eye on doesn’t have a boat dock and you plan on installing one, you’ll need to determine what’s allowed in the area. What type? How big?
If you are looking to build a new dock on BC waters, there are some legal requirements and an approval process you must follow in order to proceed with construction. These are all questions that you will need to get answers to from the city.
Living on the water is a dream for many homebuyers but it’s important to learn all you can about waterfront living before placing an offer to purchase.
About the Author:
The above article on A few things to consider before purchasing waterfront property was provided by Regan Pyke, a leader in the field of sales, marketing, and Real Estate Investing. Regan can be reached via email at [email protected] or by phone at 778-228-2448.
Thinking of selling your home? I have a real passion for buying and selling Real Estate, as well as marketing & real estate investing. I’d love to share my expertise!
