What’s the number one selling point in Florida real estate? The beaches! When it comes to state attractions, Florida’s 825 miles of sandy coastline is one of the biggest draws for incoming residents. Because the beachfront property buyer profile is unique and the pool limited, the competition is fierce and the Florida real estate lawyers and agents with extensive waterfront knowledge have an obvious advantage.
Become a Seaside Home Specialist
Beach properties are different from inland properties and pose special considerations. Know their unique pros and cons, and the desires of you client, and your cred as the beachfront expert grows exponentially!
- Location Amenities As with any investment in Florida, the all-important demographics of an area need to be reviewed per usual. However, the beachfront home prospect needs to be aware of the community that comes with their oceanfront. Is it close to good restaurants and shopping? Is the house close to a public beach? Do major holiday events like the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show or Palm Beach Food and Wine Festival take place nearby? And will your client embrace the excitement, or prefer a calmer setting.
- Boat-lover friendly? Here again, popular areas and/or annual events may mean increased boat traffic. Additionally, Florida is rife with barrier reef islands and canals and intracoastal bodies of water that also affect the area’s boat-traffic patterns. Low-lying bridges and narrow canals can be problematic for larger crafts. If there isn’t currently a dock on site, are there any regulations against building one? You will also need to know what the water levels are at low and high tide; if the property includes a dock and boatlift and what boat size can be accommodated. Know if you have deep-sea docking, and if there’s a marina nearby with available boat slips.
- How will the property be used? Will the new beach home be a vacation home? A rental property? Is it the result of a big promotion, and therefore, needs to be suitable for high-end entertaining? Is the buyer a surfer seeking big waves or a deep-sea fisherman looking for the big catch? Florida’s diverse coastline lends itself to a variety of ocean interests—from acclaimed shark tooth collecting to super-yacht marinas, and Florida’s growing real estate inventory offers everything from minimalist seasonal cottages to generously-appointed mansions.
- Seaworthy Home Construction Beach property is more exposed to the elements than homes in other locales, and over time things like wind, the salty air, rain and even the sun can mar the beauty of a beautiful estate. You’ll want to know if it’s block or frame construction? Does it have hurricane shutters? Has it experienced flooding in the past? If so, are the roof and windows in good shape? Educating the potential homeowner on what’s needed to maintain their new beachfront abode will be much appreciated.
- Ecosystem regulations? Each beach area has its own unique ecosystem of plants and animals that potential property owners should be aware of. Mangroves, for example, are important for the region, as they provide shelter for many bird species, protect shorelines from erosion and filter land-based pollutants from the water. For these reasons they are protected and cannot be removed if they block the would-be property owner’s view. Educating yourself on these flora and fauna will allow you to educate your clients, which could save them from making costly mistakes later down the road.
- Stage for a Fast Sale! Make sure you are showing off each home’s best feature… those incredible beach views! Face furniture toward the ocean, blinds and drapes should be wide open, and you also want to ensure that the beachfront itself is clear of debris and the grounds are well-maintained. If there is a dock, work with the current property owners to make sure it’s clean and in good repair.
- Special Seaside Considerations Be ready to advise your client on whether the beach under consideration has a seawall. And, if so, is it in good repair? How Does the potential buyer get it inspected? Many people considering a new beachfront life have never lived near the water and need to know about flood and hurricane insurance, and might not understand that those are two different things requiring separate policies.
The beachfront prospect is a member of a very exclusive buying club, and for many, an ocean-facing home purchase is a life-long dream within reach. Give that buyer an expert hand up by knowing your coastal amenities and challenges, and understanding his or her intentions. Find your true north, stay the course, and be the boss of it!
From beachfront property to sky-high condos, and premium office buildings, if a purchase or sale of Florida real estate is in your near future, you are welcome to contact Florida Bar Board-Certified attorneys David E. Klein, Esq. or Guy Rabideau, Esq. at Rabideauklein.com for your closing. They have the expertise and experience you need to ensure that you are fully compliant and your interests are protected.