Everything You Need to Know About Buying a Lake House, Riverside or Seaside Property

Owning a lake house or waterside property may seem like a dream come true. With its beautiful landscape and idyllic atmosphere, it may seem like the perfect spot to find peace and quiet. Moreover, it offers a chance to earn money, as waterside and lake house rentals are a ‘thing’.

However, before you reap the benefits of a waterfront property, you have to buy one first. Unfortunately, the road to ownership may be a thorny one, as you have to consider many factors before the purchase.

Here is what you need to know before buying a lake house.

Location Is the Key

The quality of your stay at the house depends on the lake itself.  A beautiful landscape may be a powerful deciding factor, however there are other considerations buyers should look out for.

One of them is the quality of the water. Even if the lake or river looks beautiful from the window, murky water full of weed or debris will taint the picture when you step outside. In addition, factors like blue green algae will make be impossible to swim in the water – it is not even good for pets – and would prevent you from fully enjoying the perks of the location.

Lastly, even though a beautiful view in summer is a powerful attraction, look also at the history of the shoreline. Nature is an ever-changing force, and in a few years, you may have an inland house or no property at all – research whether water levels are lowering or rising and whether the area is prone to flooding. If you want to be sure that you won’t encounter this type of problem, you can visit www.thepattisallgroup.com.

There Is More to the Building Than Meets the Eye

You may have fallen for the picturesque location, the house may also look great on the outside. However, remember that a sea, riverside or lake house is exposed to different factors than an inland one, and so the maintenance issues vary. Water in the basement or mold and mildew issues are some of the common problems arising from proximity to water. Before signing a deal, make sure to have an expert inspect the property, so you know exactly what you are buying. A full property survey may turn out to be much cheaper than the cost of subsequent repairs.

On the other hand, if you want to do this on your own, make sure to look under the floor, check the roof for leaks, and for any dirty stains around the windows that could indicate leaking windows. Also, pay attention to the smell. If it is unpleasant, it can be a sign of a fungus. Furthermore, check the technical condition of the installations – water, sewage, electricity and gas. If the house is heated by a fireplace, check the condition of all system components. You can be surprised with the costs that can be caused by, for instance, sealing a chimney.

Beware the Hidden Costs

Not only do waterfront properties cost more in general, but they are also connected with different hidden costs that may drain your finances. Some of the financial traps are connected with leases, taxes, and insurance.

This may come as surprising, but the lake and its shoreline on which your house stands can be somebody’s property – be it a nearby factory, a leasing company, the local council or the government. Fortunately, a property lease is usually long-term but may cost you an annual or monthly sum, which can be quite considerable.

Moreover, as the property is exposed to more damaging factors, the homeowner’s insurance is usually higher than in the case of an inland house. Good coverage for your property is advisable, yet be aware that it may be costly.

Inspect The Surroundings

When buying a holiday home, you should take a closer look at the area. Check if neighbouring plots are not intended for the construction of a supermarket or sports field. The proximity of such facilities will probably be convenient, however, it may bring you headaches due to issues like parking availability and noise.

Seasonality is also important. Waterside areas are often more popular in Summer, so the region may be visited by tourists, which can give rise to parking issues, more noise and smells of barbecue from the garden – it may also mean that your quiet morning stroll round the lake is challenging.  If you are buying a property to use or rent as a holiday home, it’s worth getting to know other residents because a good neighbour can observe the house in your absence and inform you of any concerns, or let you know promptly if something bad happens.

Proximity To Water

The vicinity of water gives you many opportunities to take up a new hobby. You should take advantage of it and become more active – you can, for example, purchase a kayak or boat, or start fishing or even just walking your dog close to the water. Whichever sport you prefer, you ought to remember that having a lake house is a great reason for staying healthy and taking up new sports.

Conclusion

Despite the fact that there are a few things that need to be examined before buying a sea, riverside or lake house, it could be a great opportunity for you.  Having this kind of property may result in additional costs and it can mean investing lots of time to keep the property in good condition. On the other hand, it offers a huge lifestyle opportunity and can give you a refuge from everyday life or offer an income opportunity as a holiday let. The health and wellbeing benefits from a pleasing waterside view are always a big draw – but make sure you consider all the factors to make sure that beautiful view doesn’t come with a whirlpool of issues.