Living in a tropical paradise – this is often the first image when beach houses are discussed, and we can’t blame people for it. Being a beach house owner means enjoying vacations whenever you want to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
But it also comes with its risks, from paying a slightly higher price for the property to dealing with hurricanes. You must make a careful consideration of these factors when you’re in the market for a beach house.
Solid and stable construction
Beach houses come with higher risks of damage, even complete destruction, because of their close proximity to the sea or ocean. There’s always the risk of hurricanes, which can bring storm surges, heavy rains, and strong winds.
Your first consideration should then be the overall construction of the beach houses on your list. Are they solid and stable enough to withstand hurricanes and other extremes of weather? Are they suitable for the recurring issues caused by the weather, such as floods and changing tides? You should consider hiring a certified home inspector to consider these aspects, including the overall structural soundness of the beach houses.
Tip: Concrete is considered as the best material for beach houses. While wood-framed homes have their appeal, these are less likely to withstand hurricanes that make landfall.
You should pay close attention to these parts of the house, too.
- The roof should be made of sturdy weather-proof materials, preferably with a metal roof.
- The windows should be made of impact-resistant materials. Not only are these preferred as protection against strong winds, but these will also decrease noise levels and increase energy efficiency.
- The posts and beams should be strong enough to withstand hurricane-force winds.
- You may or may not want outdoor living areas, such as patios and pools, depending on your lifestyle. But these should also be solid enough to withstand Mother Nature’s whims.
When it’s your turn to place an ad stating, “I want to sell my house Boynton Beach,” you can point out these desirable features to potential buyers, too.
Proximity to water
While being close to the water has its merits, it also has its risks, including storm surges, high tides, and floods. You have to consider, too, the increase in insurance rates that comes with these risks.
You may want a beach house farther away from the water if you want to be closer to the stores, for instance. You may also have children, so being too near the water isn’t safe for them. But you may want to own a beach house so close to the water that it’s already in stilts, and it’s also the right decision.
Other fees and rates
If it isn’t your primary home, you will likely need caregivers to look after your beach house while you’re away. It can mean paying for property management fees but, at least, you have the assurance that your beachside home will be taken care of.
Lastly, consider its potential rental income if it isn’t your primary home. You can then recoup your expenses for insurance, property management fees, and upkeep costs.