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What to know when buying waterfront properties

St Lawrence River's Thousand Islands, Canada and United States of America- June 19, 2016- Island with house, cottage or villa in Thousand Islands Region in sunny summer day in Kingston, Ontario, Canada. 1000 Islands near Gananoque, ON. Canadian vacation

The home-buying process can be complicated. It can even be more challenging if you are searching for a specific type, such as a waterfront home in Lake Wedowee.

Fortunately, there are several ways to go about and make the process simpler and stress-free. Here are seven things to keep in mind when searching for the perfect lakefront home.

  1. Property over structure

    It’s common for people to fall in love with a house only to realize, after they’ve purchased it, that some of the features and amenities are not up to their standards. The house may be beautiful, but getting down to the water could be difficult. It could also be located in a touristy area.

    Remember that changes to a home can be made, even expensive renovations, but changing the location and the surrounding nature is virtually impossible.

  2. Expert advice is extremely beneficial

    Instead of finding a generalist, work with a local waterfront specialist for a more nuanced approach. He or she will be better equipped and knowledgeable to give you specifics that will help find the waterfront property you’re looking for. If you are interested in lakefront properties in Alabama, consider working with the team at Wedowee Lake and Lands Realty.

  3. Keep in mind your lifestyle preferences

    Some waterfront properties will catch your attention, even if they do not meet your needs and preferences. Remember to keep lifestyle specifics in mind in choosing a waterfront home. Popular activities in and around Lake Wedowee include hiking, fishing, mountain biking, and swimming.

  4. The loan application process can be time-consuming

    With waterfront homes typically more expensive than their inland counterparts, lenders only consider highly qualified buyers. Moreover, the approval itself can take some time. To avoid delays further on, start the home buying process by taking care of your preferred financing method. This way, when you find a waterfront property you like, you already have a pre-approval letter to include in your offer.

  5. Waterfront properties are more exposed to elements

    Due to their location, waterfront homes can take quite a beating from the elements, local weather patterns included. It would be wise to take precautionary measures to protect you and your property from financial and structural damages. Shop around for insurance plans if the property you’re interested in is not currently insured.

  6. Owning a waterfront home comes with certain responsibilities and restrictions

    Renovating or remodeling waterfront homes require an extra level of care. You need to consider local building regulations for such properties before you make any changes. Your real estate agent should be able to walk you through these restrictions so you can make an informed purchase.

    Since you will be living near a feature enjoyed by many (in this case, Lake Wedowee), you also share the responsibility of keeping the lake and the nature that’s part of your property clean and healthy.

Look for the waterfront home of your dreams today

Work with Wedowee Lake and Lands Realty to explore lakefront properties in Alabama. Contact the team today to start the search for your dream lakefront home.