Scenic, peaceful, a dream come true— these are just some of the words that describe living in a waterfront home. But like other types of residential real estate, waterfront properties are not impervious to market movements. They may always be sought after, but the demand won’t always guarantee their high value.
The good thing is you can take matters into your own hands. Be a proactive homeowner and boost your waterfront property’s value by doing the following things.
- Take good care of the shoreline
Whether you live by the ocean, on the lakefront, or right by the river, it’s important to look after the shoreline that’s included in your property. It’s not merely for cosmetic purposes, but for environmental and structural reasons as well.
Soil erosion can decrease the total square footage of your property. Moreover, it can cause issues with the foundations of whatever buildings you have on the lot. Meanwhile, an unclean shoreline can have significant effects on the environment, most notably on native fauna and flora.
You can take care of the shoreline by keeping it clean. Reinforce the integrity of the soil by planting native vegetation. Instead of opting for hard armoring such as rocks and stone, opt for soft ones like logs and live plants: they’ll adapt to the changes in the environment.
Most importantly, avoid making drastic shoreline alterations. Keep it as natural as possible.
- Maintain the view
One of the biggest assets of your waterfront home is the view. Make sure it can be constantly appreciated by current (and future) occupants by ensuring that it’s visible at all times.
Trim the branches of trees, as well as shrubs and other vegetation, regularly and in a way that it frames the view nicely regardless if you’re standing outside or inside the home. Remove unsightly obstructions as much as possible. If you have to, hire a professional.
- Consider installing a floating dock
Water recreation is part of the lifestyle that comes with a waterfront home. As such, having avenues for enjoyment can boost the property’s overall value. If your waterfront home doesn’t have a dock yet, installing a floating dock can do wonders for the overall attractiveness and viability of the property.
Unlike a stationary dock which requires significant underwater installation work, a floating dock is comparatively more affordable and flexible. Since it is floating, no underwater work is required. It will also just float as the water level rises and falls. You can also opt for modular floating docks which you can reconfigure according to need or preference.
Perhaps the biggest draw of a floating dock, however, is that your boat will always be accessible. Since it floats regardless of the water level, it won’t disappear as stationary docks are wont to do when the water rises.
Convinced? Click here to learn how you can choose the best type of floating dock for your property. - Add other outdoor structures
If your waterfront property has ample outdoor space, consider adding other structures as well. Outdoor living spaces are always an attractive feature, especially in waterfront homes.
You can add a pergola or gazebo where your loved ones can gaze into the water and relax. For some nighttime activities, how about a firepit with stone stools? A second kitchen, this time outdoors, can also increase the value of your home.
If outdoor structures such as gazebos and pergolas are not to your liking, consider adding an outdoor deck or a patio. Furnish it with cozy outdoor furniture and decor to make a lovely gathering place for your friends and family.
Do remember to check local building regulations before you add any outdoor structure to your waterfront property.
- Improve the curb appeal Curb appeal is always important whether you’re living in a waterfront home or otherwise. Maintain the landscaping regularly, repaint the exterior walls when they’re faded or dirty, clean the gutters, patch up broken walkways, and make sure all of the plants in your garden are healthy. When hiring a professional landscaper, find one who has adequate experience working on waterfront properties.
Put your waterfront home’s best foot forward
A waterfront property that’s well taken care of is a home that you can enjoy for the long term. And should you wish to sell it in the future, it can bring you significant returns on your investment. Just ask the Gulfport MS real estate agents at Owen & Co. Real Estate. Get in touch with the team today at info(at)owenandco(dotted)com to learn more about waterfront Gulfport MS real estate.
