Wednesday, February 19, 2020 / by Leslie Tadin
6 Important Questions to Ask Before Buying a Waterfront Property
Offering the complete package of comfort, relaxation, and recreation, Green Lake waterfront homes for sale are some of the most coveted pieces of real estate in all of Southeastern Wisconsin.
If you are looking for the prized lakefront property that will best suit your needs, interests, and personality, here are six essential questions to ask:
1. Are you allowed to access and use the waterfront as you desire?
Municipal authorities and neighborhood associations often implement regulatory measures to preserve the integrity, beauty, and water quality of the waterfront area. These restrictions might get in the way of the lifestyle you have in mind, so do your homework about relevant local ordinances before agreeing to any purchase deals.
Learn as much as you can about the portion of the lake accessible from your home. Make an informed choice by asking questions like:
- Is the water deep enough to allow a boat to dock?
- Does the water get murky too easily, such that it makes it unpleasant to swim?
- Are there any issues about water quality that you should be aware of?
3. What is the neighborhood like?
Just like when you buy a home elsewhere, take time to learn about the neighborhood that you will move into.
When you visit the property for viewings and inspections, try to chat with neighbors and local business owners to get a firsthand account of what it’s like to live in the area.
Use these opportunities to get acquainted with your responsibilities as a member of the local homeowners’ association, as well.
4. What other structures are planned for future development around the area?
Are there any proposed or ongoing construction projects near the property that you want to buy? Look into their plans to understand whether these structures will affect how you can use the property. New buildings can get in the way of your waterfront view, for example. Road construction might signal increased traffic and noise around the area in the future.
Review the legal description of the property to see whether the lot includes the water’s edge. This may affect the kinds of usage rights other people might have on the land or water adjacent to your private property.
Consult an experienced waterfront real estate specialist to gain a better understanding of the technical details that apply to these kinds of properties.
6. What risks should you prepare for? What measures can you take to address them?Living in close proximity to a body of water comes with a specific set of risk factors that you as a homeowner should be aware of. Protection from flooding, for example, may require additional insurance coverage beyond what is typically provided by standard homeowner’s insurance plans.
Even if the area you choose is not considered a flood-prone area, take the necessary precautions to make sure that your investment is fully protected when the worst case scenario happens.
Find the waterfront home that you have always dreamed of with the most trusted real estate experts in Green Lake, WI. Get in touch with Emmer Real Estate today to learn more.