What Is A Waterfront Property Specialist?

Author: Rich Barnhart

Author: Rich Barnhart

There are over 300 miles of waterways weaving their way through the Fort Lauderdale area; about 165 miles of canals in the city of Fort Lauderdale alone. The “Venice of America” is a boater’s paradise offering every type of waterfront property you can imagine, from cozy 2 bedroom condos with boat slips to multi-million dollar Intracoastal estates in Fort Lauderdale’s most prestigious waterfront neighborhoods. Navigating your way through our waterways is one thing, but navigating your way through our waterfront real estate market is another.

Many real estate agents tout themselves as waterfront “specialists” or “experts”, but in reality this designation can only be achieved through experience and the proper training. For those of us who grew up on the inland waterways of South Florida we take pride in helping our customers find the perfect waterfront property and protecting them from the pitfalls of buying and selling waterfront real estate. The waterfront specialists at By The Sea Realty are trained on every detail of this complex specialty.

Fort Lauderdale Waterfront Property
Waterfront Single Family Homes with Yachts in Fort Lauderdale

Important Considerations When Buying Waterfront Real Estate

  • What type of boat do you have, or more importantly what type of boat might you have in the future? Docking at your property as well as navigating to and from your dock are the most important considerations for boaters. Your agent should be able to quickly and accurately determine the bridge heights, canal widths, depths and property setbacks to make sure your property is easily accessible and that you can legally dock your boat there.
  • What type of boating activities do you enjoy? If you’re an avid fisherman or scuba diver then getting out to the open water quickly may be important to you. Do you know how long it might take to access the nearest inlet? Your waterfront specialist can help you determine estimated travel times during different times of year. Yes, speed limits are different during manatee season. For you cruisers who just “enjoy the journey” we can help you find the best waterfront attractions including restaurants, marinas and sand bars.
  • What is the condition of the dock and seawall? Will you need a boat lift? Well maintained seawalls and docks can last a very long time, but what if you are faced with buying a property in disrepair? A good agent will understand the local codes and zoning, as well as environmental issues to be aware of. When necessary we can also introduce you to local marine contractors and inspectors.

The Waterfront Property Specialist Training Curriculum

Our comprehensive training curriculum covers every aspect of waterfront property brokerage in South Florida and includes regular continuing education on changing codes and regulations. Even the most experienced agents can’t know every detail of our waterfront, but they should understand the basics and be able to access the information you need to make informed decisions. Here are just a few of the topics we cover in our curriculum:

  • Local Zoning, Ordinances and Building Codes
  • Waterfront Property Accessibility
  • Understanding Our Local Inland Waterways
  • Marine Construction
  • Environmental Considerations
  • Advanced Waterfront Property Search Techniques
  • Listing and Marketing Waterfront Property For Sale

Whether your are buying or selling waterfront property in the Fort Lauderdale area, please make sure your “Waterfront Specialist” has the proper training and support.

Find a Waterfront Property Specialist

Read our Boater’s Guide to Buying a Home

Blog Author:

Rich Barnhart

Rich is the broker and owner of By The Sea Realty and a frequent contributor to the company's real estate blog.
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