Top 7 Tips for Buying a Beach Property
Are you toying with the idea of buying a second home in your favorite vacation spot? Buying a beach house can be for pleasure, profit, or in most cases a little bit of both. Whichever reason is driving you towards this purchase, browse these seven tips to help you make a smart investment.
1. Location, Location, Location
You may already know exactly the area you want to buy. What makes that area desirable for you? Is it close to restaurants and bars? Does it offer seclusion and tranquility? Are property values in these areas showing steady appreciation rates? A knowledgeable realtor can help you find the perfect property in your desired location.
2. Home Inspection
Hire a good home inspector who is experienced in beach properties. Not all inspections are created equal. Depending on the circumstances of the property, a specialized inspection may be recommended. Suzanne Temple can provide recommendations of reputable home inspectors for your beach home purchase.
3. Interview Property Management Companies
If the property is going to be used as a rental, an experienced property management company is a must. At TideLife Vacation Rentals we work with our owners to develop a plan for their rental property to maximize revenue. We also provide only experienced, licensed managers who are always available to our owners. We also give our owners the flexibility to use their own vendors for cleaning or property maintenance.
4. Decor Choices After Closing
The way you decorate your vacation home can make or break your rental income. Renters view properties online and make decision based on photos. Crowd-pleasing themes with cohesive color patterns are more appealing than random “hand me down” furniture and décor that has been stored in your attic. While you don’t have to break the bank, make sure the style or theme is consistent throughout the house. Beach themes with cool blues and greens, rustic style with neutrals and woods, or maybe nautical navies and reds. Keep it casual, it is a vacation home after all!
5. Think About Upgrades
The more upgrades to the house or condo, the more popular your rental property will be. High-end kitchen appliances look great and give a sense of luxury, even to those who may not be gourmet chefs. Bunk beds and sleeper sofas accommodate bigger families and can increase the rental pool. Small extras like providing a high chair or boogie boards could make or break a booking or even create repeat guests. Don’t forget the Wi-Fi! Wi-Fi is a must for travelers.
6. Shop Around for Insurance
As with any investment, you must be insured. Each property may have different requirements based on factors like flood zones and zip codes. Find out if flood insurance and wind coverage is required. Check with your current insurance company first, as bundling usually saves money. No matter what, be sure to shop around and compare not only prices of premiums but also deductibles and coverage amounts.
7. Be a Guest Before you Buy
Sometimes a property is still being rented while it’s on the market. If so, it’s the perfect opportunity to “try before you buy.” There’s no better way to check out the views, the proximity to restaurants and attractions, or even gauge the level of street noise while you make yourself at home for a few days. What do you love about the property? What would you change? Is this a place you would want to come back to over and over?
Now that we’ve given you some things to think about, are you ready to take the plunge and start looking for a place to call your “second” home? At Suzanne Temple-ReMax, we would love to help you find that perfect beach house.