Pros and Cons of Beachfront Property Ownership

How could there be any negative to owning a beachfront property? The sights, the sounds, nature, and fresh air are all benefits of coastal living. In fact, overall health can be vastly improved by living on the beach and getting outside as much as possible. 

That said, buyers should be aware, there are “cons” to the gig. So, if you are not prepared to deal with those issues, you may want to wait until a time when you can. This article aims to clue potential buyers in on the pros and cons, so they can make an informed decision. 

The Pros of Beachfront Property 

Personal popularity is an instant perk to beachfront ownership. Instantly, you will be everyone’s favorite family to visit. But that could be considered a con as well, right? Depending on your reason for purchasing the home, you may need to set boundaries for visitors. However, several additional benefits to the property outweigh the popularity burden. 

• First, your home is where people want to pay money to stay. When you live at the beach, it is like a vacation that never ends. Mornings with the sunrise and evenings listening to the crashing waves are your daily activities on the beach. 
• On that beach, the amenities are plentiful and readily available. Sunshine, fresh air, vitamin D, saltwater healing, and improved mental clarity are all included in the price of the home. 
• Ocean breezes are irreplaceable. If you have lived in a big city where breezes are blocked by high rises, the wind blowing through your hair is something no other place can offer.  
• There are plenty of activities to fill your off-days. Whether you want to take a book out to a beach chair and read in the sun or hop on a jet ski, there is so much to do when you live waterfront. In fact, if you try, you will never lack water activities on the beach. 
• Good resale potential is a given on the sunny and sandy beaches. Folks jump at the chance to acquire homes on the beach. 

• Beachfront ownership holds high property value. So if you are looking to keep the property for future financial security, this could be the answer. 
• Renting out the property is an excellent source of supplemental income for you and your family. If you know you want this as a second home and will not be there at all times, renting it out when you cannot come is a great investment opportunity. Let vacationers pay your mortgage while you are back home for a few weeks.  

All this to say, there are plenty of reasons to want and acquire a beachfront home. However, these properties come with their own set of needs. Keep reading to discover the cons of beachfront ownership. 

And the Cons Associated with Beachfront Property 

• First, you should know you will have sand in the home. That is a given. 

• Increased maintenance is a concern for owners. If you do not have time to treat, clean, and have surfaces and appliances maintained, the salt air can ruin a good home. 
• Salty air can really do damage to your car too. 
• Insurance policies are not the same as inland properties. Other than flood insurance, additional insurance will be necessary if you plan to rent the property in the off months. 
• Everyone will want to come and see you. This can be bad or good, depending on why you have the place. You will need a robust set of boundaries if you really want this to be your place of solitude and serenity. 
• Many people ask for discounts when they feel they know you well enough. However, if this is a rental property or investment opportunity for you, you will want to hold to your price. 

Beachfront Property Ownership is a Personal Decision 

Yes, living on the beach with the benefits of the sun, sand, and fresh salty air can be a mental, spiritual, and physical blessing. But when friends you never knew you had begin hassling you for a time at your home, it can get rather hard to say no. So, you should carefully consider the time you wish to spend in the unit, the maintenance that will be needed, and the income potential if you rent it out. 

At Kayifi, we suggest you carefully consider all the details, pros, and cons, and then get in touch with a realtor to point you in the right direction. Kayifi is your expert for Caribbean Realty.