A home on the waterfront not only comes with a higher price tag, but also more things to consider when deciding if the home is for you. Here are 4 things to keep on your radar as you narrow down your home selection.

The Condition of the Dock

The great thing about waterfront access is the ability to jump in your boat and get on the water. A dock is going to be crucial to have at your waterfront home, and if the home doesn't have one, you'll have to build a dock. You'll have to factor in the creation of a dock to your overall budget when it needs to be built from scratch.

If a dock does exist, it is one more thing that must be inspected before you close on the house. There can be unforeseen problems with mold, mildew, and rot that can make the existing dock unusable. When you are paying top dollar for a waterfront home, you want the dock to be safe and functional.

The Condition of the Shoreline

While the shoreline may feel like something that is out of your control, you should still take a close look at it. Hopefully, the previous owner has taken steps to ensure that the shoreline has not eroded away over the years. This can be done by using sandbags or thick soils that have been compacted,

Consider having a land surveyor come out to the home to let you know about the potential risks of rising water. Homes in northern parts of the country have a greater chance of rising waterways as ice and snow melts with the spring rain. Make sure your home is not at risk of becoming damaged by water when this happens.

The Presence of Mice

One potential problem with living near the water is that it can bring mice to the property. Look out for signs of a rodent infestation, like traps that have been left out around the home. Don't just look at the home you are interested in, since the owners may have removed them for showings. Look at neighboring homes and see if they have traps out to catch these pesky pests.

The Presence of Invasive Plant Species

One last thing to look at is if there are invasive plant species in the water near your home. That can make fishing problematic, and they are something to watch out for if that is what you plan to do in your backyard. Water lilies can also get caught in a boat rudder, making it difficult to get a boat into your dock.

Contact a real estate agent to find waterfront homes for sale in your area.

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