When it comes to finding a desirable place to live, few places are more desirable than properties on the water. People who live along the New Jersey coast know this well. With its abundant homes on the beach, bay and lagoons, there is a lot of waterfront property on the market and even more people competing to buy it.

Consider a Toms River Realtor when hunting for waterfront homes in the area.

However, buying waterfront property is not necessarily the same thing as buying property elsewhere. It comes with special considerations that must be taken into account before taking the plunge. Here are three things people often don’t tell you about buying waterfront property:

1) Pick A Property That Fits Your Lifestyle

People think that “waterfront” is one broad category, but the fact is, there is a lot of variety within that category. Understanding the differences between one kind of waterfront home and another should factor into your decision, since ideally you want a property that will fit your lifestyle. Some waterfront homes in Toms River are ideal for boating. Others are not ideally situated for boating but are ideal for entertaining guests. Some are close enough to the inlets so that you can access the ocean by water. Others are far enough away so that you’ll rarely make the trip. Some have spectacular views of the bay. Others are cozy and private lagoon homes. Any one of these could be your dream home, it’s just a matter of understanding your lifestyle and choosing a home that will fit it.

2) Research Local Zoning Restrictions

Waterfront property is not the same as property inland. It comes with its own rules, restrictions and zoning. Before buying, you’ll want to find out if you can put in a dock for that boat you plan on buying, or if the screened in back porch you want to build will be allowed (since sightlines are so important on the water), or if a pool is viable for the backyard, and so on. Knowing the answers to these questions before you buy can save you a lot of headache (and maybe money) in the long term.

3) Understand Your Insurance Requirements

In most cases, living on the water will involve insurance requirements above and beyond your normal homeowners insurance. Flood insurance is common and not something to fear – it’s also less costly than you might imagine – but it’s important for you to recognize the need for it all the same. In some cases, you might come across waterfront homes in Toms River that do not require flood insurance. In those cases, you will have to weigh the pros and cons of whether or not you want to forego flood insurance or purchase it anyway, even if it’s not required.

The good news about all three items is that they are not insurmountable obstacles or roadblocks, they are mere bumps that anyone can overcome if they truly desire to live someplace special.

And is there any place more special than a home on the water?