In the US, there are millions of beachfront homes. We definitely understand the appeal of living by the sea. The quiet crash of the waves upon the sound is a sweeter sound than many symphonies, and there is nothing quite like the sight of the sun rising over the sea. That being said, there are a few things that you need to know about owning a home on (or near) the water.
You May Not Have Exclusive Access to the Beach
Property is nine-tenths of the law, as the old saying goes. Property law in regard to beachfront homes is sometimes hard to disentangle. According to the State Constitution of Florida, all beaches below the ‘mean high-water line’, otherwise known as wet sand, are public. Court cases have established the right of the public to use the dry sand when the public has been using a beach for the past 20 years without objection from the landowners, or through customary use, which is to say the peaceful, ‘ancient’, use of the beach by the public.
In the case Stop the Beach Renourishment vs. Florida Dept. of Environmental Protection, the Supreme Court of the United States ruled that when the government replaces eroded beach, the public owns the beach. Essentially, there is no right for waterfront property to contact the water.
Hurricane Season Comes Once a Year
People have many misconceptions about hurricanes. Everyone sees the massive storm on television. When they do broadcasts about the storm, they emphasize the heavy winds. Actually, the most damaging part of the storm is the storm surge. This is the massive tide of water that the storm pushes up the beach. A storm surge can cause flooding.
It is a good idea to know what to do before a hurricane hits. Having supplies on hand and knowing how to secure your home is paramount. A check of your home for leaks before hurricane season starts is a good idea. Sand dunes and stilts also go a long way towards protecting your home.
The Elements Are Not Always in Your Favor
There is nothing quite like the crisp smell of the salt breeze. However, as you sit out on the patio sipping a drink, your home is taking abuse. The salt winds bring crystals to the flashing and other exposed metal, which does not lead to good conclusions. Similarly, windows need to be cleaned pretty often. Electrical wires corrode very quickly, so make sure you have moisture-proof coating.
Natural Landscaping is the Best
Nature gives us many resources. The resources most applicable here will not only beautify your home, but will protect you. Saltbushes will provide a natural windbreak for you. Succulents firm up the ground, and provide a little green. Keep in mind that the plants will be in direct sunlight a lot, will face a lot of wind, and are salt-tolerant.
Generally, we find that the pros far outweigh the cons when it comes to living on the beachfront. After all, it is incredibly common down here in South Florida. When you want to move to a beachfront home, call us. Joe’s Moving is your local Miami movers. You will be grooving with Joe’s moving.