A waterfront property in Maine can be a great investment, but it takes careful choosing and research to make sure that you are getting your money’s worth. To get started, consider consulting with experts on Maine coastal real estate for a customized search of properties that match your requirements. From there, you can conduct further investigation, like finding out the exact location of the property and its history. Apart from this, you should also consider the following information that could influence your buying decision:
- The property’s usability – Determine how much and if the property you want to buy is usable. Usability is usually affected by factors like town zoning, state shoreland zoning, local ordinances, deed restrictions, and covenants, conditions, and restrictions. Be sure to look them up or talk to Maine waterfront experts for advice.
- Access issues – Investigate all possible and existing access issues. This is an important step for all the body of water and roads involved. Make sure that there is easy and safe access to and from the Maine coastal real estate you are eyeing all year round, regardless of the season or weather condition.
- Utilities – Verify that the real estate has access to proper sewage, water, and electricity. You should also consider accessibility to modern conveniences, like high-speed internet access and cable TV.
- Your rights on the property’s vegetation – Take note that not all Maine coastal real estate will allow you to remove some vegetation or clear out the land. The possibility of eliminating vegetation may depend on the shoreland zoning laws and the kind of waterfront. Keep in mind that timber harvesting is restricted, and that shoreline weeds may affect the market value of the real estate.
- Use restrictions on the body of
water – Find out
what type of dock you can build and if you can build any at all. You will
need certain permits for building. Moreover, find out if the body of water
is good for activities like fishing, waterskiing, speedboats, and jet skis.
- Water level issues – Find out if high tide, low tide, and heavy rain can affect accessibility to the property, and if flooding is possible.