Who could resist waking up to the sound of ocean waves as your alarm clock? No, this isn’t waking up at a resort but at your beach home. A beach home is a great place to escape, as an investment property, or settle down as a retiree. Whether it’s for business or to soak up the sun, there are a few things to consider before purchasing a beach house.

Homes on the waterfront promote peaceful living and an active lifestyle. Think about these things before you buy to ensure you get just that.

Location, Location, Location

Location is one of the most important factors in determining where to settle down when purchasing a beach home. So ask yourself, “Exactly where do I want to live?” The easy answer is living in the place where you do the most vacationing. While that makes sense, keep in mind there are tons of beach locations to choose from.

In your search for a location, consider beach access, safety, proximity to grocery stores and restaurants, activities, and more. Would you prefer a lively area or somewhere quieter? Do thorough research to make sure this is an area you’re comfortable in.

Insurance Rates

With any home comes homeowner’s insurance. It’s expected, but rates are known to drastically increase if you’re living a step away from the shoreline. You may also find yourself paying a little extra for flood insurance for areas that tend to go under during storms. Do your research for rates, and don’t settle on the first one you come across. Rates will differ, so be sure to shop around to get the best deal.

Neighbors

Knowing who you’re living next to or around the corner from is super important. The endless water views and sandy beaches can help you forget about everything around you, but noisy neighbors will snap you back to reality. Your neighbors make up the community and culture of your neighborhood—do you trust your next-door neighbor to house-sit while you’re away?

Proximity to Water

Living close to the water can have its pros and cons. For example, the 5-minute walk to the beach is quick and convenient, but this can increase your home’s risk of flooding and damage from storms. Waterfront living is not for the weak, which is why it’s imperative to weigh all the pros and cons to help determine what you’ll compromise on and what’s a deal breaker.

Quality and Foundation of the Home

Beach homes are expensive. If you’re willing to (responsibly) break the bank to purchase your home, ensure you’re not spending excess funds on early renovations. A home built on a solid foundation will help you avoid unnecessary costs. If you need to, consider hiring a professional to inspect and carefully evaluate your prospective home.