Berkshire Hathaway Homeservices Florida Network Realty
Dianne Drinkwater, Berkshire Hathaway Homeservices Florida Network RealtyPhone:
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Buying a beach house: What to know before you buy

by Dianne Drinkwater 07/31/2022

Buying a beach house is at the top of many homeowners’ bucket lists. Whether relocating to the coast or buying a second home for vacations, beachfront property is a popular option.

However, like all homeownership, there are important factors to consider before taking the plunge. Beach homes have facets that you should be aware of to make the most informed purchase decision.

Here are some of the most important ways to prepare for buying a beach house:

Research the area

Buying a beach house means learning all about the best beach towns in your area. Consider other neighborhood factors like traffic, local businesses, parking and the proximity of your neighbors.

It’s also worth researching local development plans that could potentially affect your experience. For example, a brand-new condominium community or hotel being built between you and the beach could diminish your ocean view and increase construction noise.

Work with a local real estate agent

An expert real estate agent will make your beach home search smoother and more effective. A local agent can provide valuable insight into the beach town housing market and the specifics of coastal properties. Additionally, they can represent you during the entire homebuying process and help you with all the paperwork.

Determine your priorities

Determine your lifestyle wants and needs to aid in your beach home search. Ask yourself questions like: will this be a vacation home or primary residence? What features do you consider essential? Is it imperative to be directly on the beach, or could you settle for being a few blocks away?


For coastal properties, it’s also crucial to decide whether you prefer a standalone house or a condominium. Both have their advantages and disadvantages to consider.

Whether you want to start a new life at the beach or buy an investment property, these tips will help you have the best possible experience buying a beach house.

About the Author
Author

Dianne Drinkwater

Dianne is a full time, full service, state licensed Realtor®, member of Northeast Florida Regional Association of Realtors® (NEFAR), St. Augustine/ St.Johns County Board of Realtors, National Association of Realtors® (NAR), Florida Association of Realtors® (FAR), and Northeast Florida Regional Multiple Listing Service And St. Augustine/St. Johns (MLS), Shearwater Certified, and Military on the Move Designation.

She provides a unique blend of leadership, sales acumen, project management, technology, and world class customer relation skills to enhance Watson Realty Corporation's values in the real estate sales and mortgage marketplace. She is a decisive take action solution-oriented professional with 25+ years of progressive business experience who efficiently utilizes technology to improve results. She has lived in the St. Augustine/Jacksonville area since 2005 and has seen the area continue to flourish and stays well informed of future growth plans within Northeast Florida. 

Let's take a look at the lighter side of Dianne. She loves life is artistic loves music, the arts, yoga and genealogy! She loves to explore and hates to be bored. She loves the outdoors, especially plant life and wildlife. She has been a Master Gardener in Florida and Maine; as a photography enthusiast she has the eye to spot the perfect shot, which spills over to the photos she makes of the properties she markets AND frequently hires the best specialized real estate photographers/drone and videographers who make the difference in the sale. And, she loves to share her knowledge of the local real estate market and all aspects of the process to guide you through each step as a coach rather than a salesperson. 

So, let's sum it up. Buying or selling your home is an important life decision. Reasons can vary greatly from change of lifestyle, to relocation or life challenges. You need someone you can trust, count on, respect and help shoulder the stress, anxiety and time commitment involved. Doesn't this sound like someone you want working for you? 

So, what's the next step? Contacting Dianne of course. It is all about YOUR needs, goals, timeline and DREAMS! She's here to help you achieve them and she looks forward to hearing from you. 

What are you looking for in a Realtor? - Someone who will really listen to your wants and needs? Someone who will expertly market your home until the SOLD sign adorns your front lawn or if you are a buyer tirelessly researches your wish list to find that perfect home? - How about someone who will always be honest, holds ethics in high regard as a realtor, who works aggressively to get you the best price for your home and someone who knows the market? 

Selling or buying a home is a partnership with your trusted advisor- Dianne Drinkwater