Finding a suitable waterfront home site is the first phase of Total Quality Home Builder’s building process. Evaluating waterfront property is different from other types of lots and working with an experienced waterfront builder is key. A building site on the shores of a lake is unique since you’re getting the property, lake access, and a view of the water all in one. And waterfront lots can be more complicated to buy than other types of land.
Engaging with an experienced builder that has licensed real estate agents who specialize in waterfront homes and land can help guide you through the process of finding the right piece of property that suits your lake home vision. Waterfront property has its own unique set of complexities, from permitting, structural challenges, and topographical inconsistencies. An experienced Lake Keowee builder that understands the unique qualities of waterfront home sites will know what to look for, who to connect with for the purchase, and the steps involved in thorough planning in the construction process.
Take a walk around the property
Before you decide to buy, your builder should schedule some time with you to visit the waterfront home site that you like, or multiple sites that are currently on the market. Your agent will help you evaluate the lot for construction viability while you can determine if the view is what you envision and if the property has good access to the lake. When buying waterfront property, you’re also buying the water view and lake access, so your choice is important.
As the buyer, have a checklist handy so you can ask questions during the home site visits. Here are a few to consider when touring the property:
- Is it close to the waterfront?
- Does it have adequate access to the main road?
- Are there any easements, restrictions, shared property, obstructions, encroachments, or rights-of-way?
- Does the property require flood insurance?
- What is the condition of the shoreline in the summer?
- Is there a lake association that is currently active?
- What recreational activities are allowed or not allowed on the lake?
- What is the quality of the lake water?
- Is the property priced correctly?
Visit the waterfront home site multiple times
Consider visiting the property multiple times during different times of the day, on weekdays, and on weekends. If there are other homes close by, the lot may be in an area with a peaceful, easy-going feeling during the week but a much different feeling on the weekends or holidays.
If a sunrise or sunset view is important to you, the property may not get the ideal views that you dream about. One mistake some buyers make is neglecting to experience the lot in different settings. Your perspective of a waterfront home site, and the feel each one has, can change depending on the time of day or even the season.
The unique expenses of lake living
Waterfront properties typically have added expenses of which you may not be aware. Septic tank permitting and installation is typical in areas without city water and sewage services, along with groundwater wells and upkeep. Boat dock construction, maintenance, and HOA fees can also add to the expenses of lake living that need to be considered. A home builder that’s built numerous houses on Lake Keowee will be aware of these details so there are no surprises during and after construction. Be sure to include these expenses in your construction and monthly budgets when considering waterfront home sites for your dream home.
Coming up in part three of this series, Analyzing a Lot for Construction, we’ll discuss finding the best location for your home.
When working with the experts at Total Quality Home Builders, you can be confident that you are armed with the information required to make an informed decision when buying a waterfront home site for your new home.
2022