5 Things to Consider Before You Buy a Waterfront Property in Tampa Bay

Published On: September 3, 2023|Categories: Blog, Buyers|Tags: Buying a Waterfront Property, Waterfront Property|

As Tampa Bay is renowned for its spectacular views and inviting waters, purchasing a waterfront property here can seem like a dream come true. However, this type of real estate comes with unique considerations. This guide aims to provide potential buyers with key factors to think about before diving into the waterfront market.

5 Things to Consider Before You Buy a Waterfront Property in Tampa Bay

Whether it’s the allure of panoramic views, the possibility of having a private dock, or the potential for rental income, buying waterfront property offers many perks. However, before you embark on this exciting journey, consider these five points:

Understanding the local real estate market
Evaluating the property’s vulnerability to natural elements
Assessing the cost of insurance
Considering access and privacy
Factoring in additional maintenance needs

Here’s a closer look at each.

Understanding the Local Real Estate Market

Waterfront properties in Tampa Bay are highly sought after, making the local market competitive. You’ll want to work with a real estate agent who’s familiar with the area, understands waterfront properties’ unique dynamics, and can guide you in making a well-informed decision.

Evaluating the Property’s Vulnerability to Natural Elements

Living by the water means exposure to natural elements like storms and hurricanes. An important part of the buying process involves understanding how these could impact the property and what preventive measures are in place to protect it.

Assessing the Cost of Insurance

Waterfront properties often require more insurance due to their exposure to weather-related risks. It’s essential to factor this into your budget and check what’s covered under the policy.

Considering Access and Privacy

Accessibility to the water and privacy from neighbors and the public are other factors to consider. Ensure that the property provides the kind of access (like a private dock) and privacy you desire.

Factoring in Additional Maintenance Needs

Owning a waterfront property often comes with additional maintenance needs, given the impact of the water and weather on the property. This includes everything from rust prevention to more frequent painting.

FAQ About Buying a Waterfront Property in Tampa Bay

Check out these commonly asked questions about buying a waterfront property in Tampa Bay. If you don’t see the answers you’re looking for here, please call our office and we’ll get you the information you need.

Does owning a waterfront property increase in value more than a non-waterfront property?

While it’s not guaranteed, waterfront properties often do appreciate faster than their landlocked counterparts due to limited supply and high demand.

Are there restrictions on what I can do with the waterfront area?

There may be restrictions on construction, docking, or even the types of watercraft you can use. It’s crucial to research these before buying.

How can I protect my property from the natural elements?

Preventive measures can include storm shutters, reinforced windows, and seawalls. Additionally, regular maintenance will help preserve the property’s integrity.

There’s no denying the appeal of owning a waterfront property in Tampa Bay. However, potential buyers should consider these factors to ensure their dream home doesn’t turn into a nightmare. With the right due diligence and the help of an experienced real estate agent, you’ll be well-prepared to make an informed decision and enjoy the waterfront lifestyle you’ve always wanted.

Under Construction. Welcome to 3403 Grace St, a luxurious modern home nestled in the heart of Midtown South Tampa. This custom-built residence boasts 3200 square feet of living space, featuring 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, and a 2-car garage, complete with a balcony and an enclosed back patio.
As you enter, you'll be greeted by a spacious living room and an expansive kitchen adorned with modern amenities and a fireplace, creating an inviting atmosphere for gatherings. The first floor hosts a convenient bedroom and bathroom, offering flexibility and accessibility. The chef's kitchen is a culinary masterpiece, equipped with top-of-the-line appliances, including a professional-grade range and built-in oven. A sleek quartz waterfall island serves as the focal point, providing ample space for food preparation and casual dining. Adjacent to the kitchen, a sophisticated wet bar with a wine fridge adds a touch of elegance to your entertaining experience. Venture upstairs to discover three additional bedrooms, Two full bathrooms with a tub, and a versatile loft area. The master suite is a sanctuary of comfort, featuring two walk-in closets and a luxurious en-suite bathroom with dual vanities, a soaking tub, and a walk-in shower. A private balcony off the second floor offers a tranquil retreat for relaxation. Outside, the covered patio and fenced backyard create an ideal setting for outdoor dining and entertaining. Plus, this prime location places you just minutes away from popular attractions such as Armature Works, Downtown Tampa, Midtown, and Raymond James Stadium, ensuring you're always in the center of the action. Experience the epitome of modern luxury living at 3403 Grace St, where every detail has been meticulously crafted to elevate your lifestyle.

$1,280,000 Active

3404 W Grace Street Tampa, Florida

4 Beds 3 Baths 3,200 SqFt 0.120 Acres

Newer Davis Islands Waterfront Home situated on over a 1/2 Acre Canal Front Lot, leading out to Tampa Bay! The home has a very functional layout: 4 Bedrooms, 4 Full Bathrooms, 1 powder bathroom, Office + Bonus Room/Loft. The extraordinary outdoor space thoughtfully crafted includes a saltwater heated pool/spa/sunshelf w/sheer waterfalls that pour out of the fire feature, a putting green, an outdoor kitchen as well as a fully turfed oversized lawn. The entire 1st floor is garage (room for 5 cars) with an Elevator to the 2nd and 3rd levels. The 2nd floor holds an open great room/kitchen/dining room layout w/Nano doors leading out to a covered deck. This level also includes a guest bedroom suite, office & powder bathroom. The primary suite encompasses the entire width of the 3rd level with its own private balcony. The additional 2 bedroom suites and loft/bonus space round out the 3rd level. A whole house generator, smart house automation and new AC units were recently added. Davis Islands is conveniently located just beyond Downtown Tampa, Channelside, Sparkman's Wharf and Harbour Island. Also, just a quick golf cart ride away from Hyde Park Village. DI is also home to Davis Island's Yacht Club, a small sandy beach, a large waterfront park, an array of shops & restaurants, a playground, tennis courts, baseball fields, public pool (newly redesigned with "splash area"), dog parks, boat ramp and small private pilot airport (FBO). Gorrie/Wilson/Plant school district.

$3,750,000 Active

686 Geneva Place Tampa, Florida

4 Beds 5 Baths 3,936 SqFt 0.260 Acres

Welcome to this beautiful corner/end unit townhome in the luxury guard gated community of Harbour Island which lives more like a home but with the maintenance free lifestyle of a condo. This home features 4 bedrooms, 3 full and 1 half bath + a den/office/playroom and 2 outdoor spaces all situated conveniently next to the community pool. Step into the home and notice the high quality dark oak stained flooring, wainscoting, crown molding, and plantation shutters. There is a formal dining area with a bar as well as an eat-in kitchen that opens to the family room. There is a cute outdoor patio off the kitchen with a gas Weber grill which is a perfect spot to enjoy that morning cup of coffee as well as a nice sized patio off the family room with a gas fire pit. There is a ton of storage and a huge pantry area off the kitchen. Upstairs you will find the primary bedroom with a walk in closet and an updated bathroom with tub, shower, and dual vanity. There are 3 more upstairs bedrooms with one on-suite and one hall bath both of which have been updated. More recent upgrades in 2020 include all new HVAC and ductwork, new wine cooler, and new french door refrigerator. Come and enjoy the wonderful lifestyle Harbour Island offers!

$1,199,000 Active

944 Harbour Bay Drive Tampa, Florida

4 Beds 4 Baths 2,641 SqFt 0.050 Acres

You don't want to miss this RARE OPPORTUNITY corner unit, 3 bedroom 2.5 bathroom, 2 car garage, WITH A LOFT! This open concept floor plan totals 2,200 square feet of living space. It is highly upgraded featuring a designers chef kitchen with double stacked ovens (conventional/convection and microwave/convection) GE smooth glass cooktop with touch controls and a stainless steel vented hood system. The kitchen boasts beautiful large rich espresso cabinets, a massive island that has been completely paneled to match the cabinets, overlayed with luxury torquay quartz, and a backsplash of Lastello tiles. There is plenty of light with the under cabinet lighting, 6 built-in can fixtures, and 3 pendant lights over the island. The chefs kitchen faces both the dining room and the living room, making it perfect for entertaining company! The living room features another vocal point of the home, which is customized wood-paneled TV wall with industrial-style pipe shelving. The mid-century modern accents continue with a modern wood ceiling fan and cream colored curtains and curtain rod. The dining area features a sputnik style chandelier to continue the mid-century modern accents. There is a patio off of the dining room that is the perfect spot for grilling, and features a 5' privacy hedge/fence, and view of the water. Heading upstairs, past the iron stair railings, and you enter the large loft that is great for extra TV room space, office space, or even a game area for family and friends. Next, you'll enter the primary bedroom with a huge walk in closet, and spacious en-suite bathroom featuring two sinks, a water closet for privacy on the toilet, and glass surrounded stand up shower. The 2 additional bedrooms also feature nice sized walk in closets. The second bath has two sinks, and quartz counter tops. Aside from parking 2 cars in the large 2 car garage, the driveway offers additional space for parking. The flooring throughout the entire townhouse is a durable waterproof vinyl. Custom wood plantation shutters adorn every window in the home, and a honeycomb/cellular shade covers the porch sliding glass doors. The low monthly HOA features worry-free exterior maintenance, lawn care, pest control (exterior), sewer, and water. Townhomes of West Lake is a gated, pet friendly community, equipped with dog walking stations, a community mail area, and a beautifully maintained community pool. This community is located in Tampa's highly desirable area of Family Friendly Westchase, just minutes away from Citrus Park Mall, Shopping Plaza, restaurants, and walking/biking trails. The Veterans Expressway is 5 minutes, and the Tampa International Airport is 17 minutes away, making traveling to destinations convenient and easy! THIS TOWNHOME WILL NOT LAST! DO NOT MISS YOUR CHANCE TO CALL THIS BEAUTIFUL COMMUNITY AND HOME, YOUR HOME! **Seller had a Pre-Appraisal completed prior to listing, and is listed at market value**

$545,000 Active

11427 Crowned Sparrow Lane Tampa, Florida

3 Beds 3 Baths 2,200 SqFt 0.090 Acres

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