As the world becomes increasingly urbanized, living close to nature has become a highly sought-after way of life. Many people are now opting for homes located next to bodies of water such as lakes, rivers or oceans, as they offer a unique living experience. Such homes, commonly referred to as waterfront or waterside residences, come with a range of advantages and disadvantages, depending on one’s perspective. In this article, we examine the pros and cons of living in a water-side residence.
Advantages
1. Peaceful Ambience: Waterfront properties usually offer a serene and peaceful environment. The sound of flowing water and the beautiful view of the water body provides a relaxing atmosphere that is hard to come by in a city centre. Living near water creates a sense of calmness and tranquillity that can bring more positive energy in one’s life.
2. Better Air Quality: Waterfront homes usually enjoy better air quality; the breeze from the water body refreshes the air, creating a cleaner and fresher environment.
3. Recreational Activities: Water-based recreational activities are readily available for those living in waterfront homes. Activities such as sailing, kayaking, fishing, swimming and boating are just some of the activities that can be enjoyed. Many residents of waterfront homes state that these activities greatly improve their quality of life.
4. High Resale Value: Waterfront properties generally have a much higher resale value, partly because of their scarcity. Properties located near water, either on the beach or in lakefront neighbourhoods, are often in demand, meaning that their value does not decrease as much as other properties in times of economic downturns.
Disadvantages
1. Flood Risk: Waterfront homes are at a higher risk of flooding, particularly during extreme weather conditions such as hurricanes or heavy rains. This poses a risk to both the property and the homeowner.
2. High Maintenance Cost: Waterfront properties are costly to maintain. Salt, wind, and moisture can corrode the exterior of the property, and constant repairs and upkeep can incur a lot of costs. Additionally, routine maintenance such as cleaning gutters and other drainage systems, is required to ensure the property can stand the test of time.
3. Wildlife Encounters: Living so close to a body of water increases the possibility of encountering wild animals such as snakes, alligators or other pests that are native to water habitats.
4. Limited Accessibility: Waterfront properties may be located in remote areas, away from amenities such as grocery stores, pharmacies or hospitals. This can inconvenience residents, especially during emergencies.
In conclusion, living near water is a lifestyle choice that comes with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. For many, the benefits of serenity, outdoor recreation, and higher resale values outweigh the risks of maintanence costs, flooding or wildlife encounters that migh occur. For what category of these people do you belong?