Having beach-hopped all summer from friends’ rentals to family homesteads and every shoreline in between, you relish the sand and surf like oxygen. An idea as bright as the summer sunburns in your brain. Could you move to and live in a beach resort town year-round? Of course, you could, but before you start packing up your moving boxes, find out what you should expect and how to move to a beach resort area.
Life’s a Beach
Who can deny that living near the water either by the ocean or another body of water isn’t a dream for many people? It’s peaceful and relaxing and the sea air rejuvenates you from head to toe. The pleasant weather encourages you to venture outdoors and absorb the healing sunshine by walking or engaging in water sports. Not to mention the availability of fresh, healthy seafood on a regular basis! You’ll feel like you’re on vacation every day even if the feeling lasts only a few minutes before you remember your responsibilities. When the movers drop off the last of your belongings, you’ll realize that your house is not just a home but a haven that holds you in its arms.
Working on the Beach
Although you may be able to afford to move to a beautiful shore house, consider how far you’ll need to travel for work. A long, arduous commute means less time relaxing at the beach and more time road-raging or riding on public transportation. Ask your current employer if telecommuting is an option. Searching for a closer job or collecting more freelance assignments could work in your favor. Consider what the school districts are like for your children and what other necessary facilities and amenities you need in order to lead a fulfilling life.
Damage Control
Moving near the ocean means clean, fresh air and close proximity to water activities. However, that closeness also increases the possibility of hurricanes and other damaging weather affecting your home and well-being. HGTV points out that extra maintenance may be required for your house including if you own a dock or are situated right on the beach, reminding you that a waterfront and/or beach town dweller must be prepared for those eventualities and take special care.
Sand Dollar Sense
Anything worthwhile tends to cost money. Properties close to water are more expensive and require more insurance coverage which racks up the expenses. Most likely, though, according to Life Quality Examiner, houses near the beach or on the water generally appreciate in value rather than depreciate, especially when well-maintained. In the future, you could always rent out your home for a second income if you decide to move elsewhere.
Fair Weather Friend or Not
Deciding to move to the beach presents benefits overall, but does it help or hurt your social network? Depending on your personality, it may provide solitude and privacy but also offer plenty of socializing opportunities. If you move to an area overrun by summer or off-season tourists and get frustrated by crowds and traffic, you may think twice about arranging moving services. Then again, you could rent out your home and plan vacations during that time. Social butterflies, it could get lonely during quieter times. Remember, though, that your home may become the hottest ticket in town with friends and relatives looking to spend the day or longer when you’re that close to the beach.