Coastal · Marcus Wren · Read time: 5 min
Buying Near Water: What to Check
Flood risk, insurance and upkeep: the questions to ask before you fall for a view.
Flood risk and elevation
Ask for the flood zone designation and any elevation certificate. A home’s history matters as much as the map, so ask the seller directly and check public records too.
Insurance costs
Get insurance quotes before you offer, not after. Premiums near the water can differ widely from inland homes, and some policies exclude certain kinds of storm damage. Read exactly what’s covered.
Salt, sun and upkeep
Coastal air is hard on metal, paint and decks. Ask when the roof, windows and exterior finishes were last replaced, and what materials were used.
Access and rules
Check these before you commit:
Who owns the shoreline or dock
Limits on building or rebuilding
Public access and noise
Association fees and rules
Your agent can help you find these answers before you make an offer.
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Coastal · Marcus Wren · Read time: 5 min
Flood risk and elevation
Flood risk, insurance and upkeep: the questions to ask before you fall for a view.