Ask an Agent: What to Know Before Buying a Waterfront Home
by Grace Cassidy
May 2025
Owning a home on the water is a dream for many house hunters, whether it’s on an ocean, a lake, or a babbling brook. And whether you’re looking for easy access to swimming and boating or just a pleasant view—which can have very real health benefits—you’ll want to look into the costs and other considerations before you leap.
Keeping Up with Upkeep Costs
Simply put, waterfront homes require more care, time, and energy than landlocked properties—particularly if they’re on the ocean or other saltwater bodies.
“You’re dealing with moisture, salt air, and wind exposure,” explains Evangela Brock, an Elliman agent based out of Greenwich, Conn., who represents waterfront listings like the incredible Westport home at 46 Compo Mill Cove. “Exterior maintenance becomes more frequent. Regular sealing, cleaning, and protective coatings are important.”
In addition to caring for the home itself, the property will also need some extra attention. Wood and metal fixtures are especially vulnerable to salt air and water and can deteriorate quickly if not looked after properly.
“Landscaping can be harder to manage,” says New Jersey-based agent Suzanne Veninata who has more than 20 years of experience representing waterfront properties. “Homeowners need to regularly monitor docks, bulkheads, and boat lifts.”
Not only will more maintenance be required, but it likely will be more costly because of the frequency and nature of the maintenance.
“Most waterfront buyers are happy with their purchase, but some are surprised by the higher maintenance costs,” Veninata says.
The typical recommendation is that homeowners set aside between 1 and 4 percent of their home’s value every year for maintenance. Waterfront homeowners should expect to put away the higher end of that range, possibly even more.
Future-Proofing
Having a home on a body of water can mean more exposure to destructive weather, such as heavy rain and hurricanes. With the possibility of storms as well as erosion, waterfront properties can change drastically over just a short period of time. However, buyers can take measures to prepare their homes against the elements.
Some homes on the ocean may already be built with hurricane-grade windows or framing. Buyers purchasing an older home, however, might consider reinforcing the roof, investing in hurricane shutters, and building out infrastructure such as breakwaters.
“Depending on location, that could mean seawalls, riprap, or using certain types of vegetable to help stabilize the shoreline,” Brock says. “Salt-tolerant landscaping and a watchful eye on decking, railings, and other structural elements can go a long way in preserving the home’s integrity.”
Good home insurance is absolutely necessary with waterfront homes. According to NerdWallet, the average homeowner spends about $2,110 every year on home insurance. But because waterfront homes come with additional protections and are typically of higher value than other properties, buyers should expect to pay above average prices every month.
“Flood insurance can be more expensive than expected, depending on the location and elevation” Brock points out. “I always encourage clients to get quotes early in the process.”
Appreciation All Around
The future is, of course, unknowable, but even with changing climates, waterfront homes typically have appreciated in value over time.
“Waterfront properties usually hold their value really well, especially when they’re in a great location and there aren’t a lot available,” Veninata says. “But not all waterfronts are created equal. Homes with boat access, sandy beaches, or wide-open water views tend to do better than ones on marshland or in areas that flood easily.”
According to Brock, the factors that impact value include a scarcity of inventory, a strong demand for water views, desirability for second homes, and historical appreciation trends. Homeowners should consider these conditions when they’re getting ready to move on to determine the right time to put their home on the market.
“Homes that meet current FEMA guidelines and building codes will always be better positioned for resale and a higher return,” Brock adds.
Owning a waterfront home can be a lot of work, but many find it to be worth all of the effort.
“Waterfront properties offer peace, privacy, and a connection to nature that’s hard to find elsewhere,” Brock says. “Most of my buyers fall even more in love with their home once they’ve lived in it.”
Both Brock and Veninata say they’ve never had a single client regret buying a waterfront home.
Agents Evangela Brock (top left) and Suzanne Veninata.
The Agent Advantage
One of the most important steps to finding the right waterfront home for you is working with an agent who is experienced in facilitating transactions on these kinds of properties.
“Experience is everything,” Brock says. “We know how to ask the right questions and connect you with the right professionals. It’s about protecting your investment so you can fully enjoy the lifestyle that waterfront living offers.
Your agent should be knowledgeable not only in what it takes to own a waterfront home, but also in your hyperlocal market, environmental regulations, seasonal concerns in your area, and zoning. Strong connections with tradespeople working with waterfront homes is a plus, such as boat and dock specialists and coastal engineers.
“A good agent can spot hidden issues like erosion or flooding risks and guide you through waterfront financing and insurance processes,” Veninata explains. “Make sure they have a solid reputation and positive reviews.”
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