Guide to Buying a Waterfront Home in Kent County

One of the first and most important steps in finding your perfect waterfront home is knowing what type of body of water you want to have your property near.

Tips for Buying Kent County Waterfront Property

In Kent County, there are riverfront properties, homes near lakes or creeks, and houses on the Chesapeake Bay. It's important to consider the different aspects of each of these bodies of water.

Riverfront Homes

These properties typically have beautiful scenery, and nearby amenities like shopping and restaurants, and often allow homeowners the chance to boat, practice water sports, and swim in the water. The Chester River and Sassafras River are two popular waterfront options in Kent County. The water in these rivers is salty, but can at times be somewhat clear and is safe to swim and fish in.

Homes Near Lakes, Creeks, etc.

Houses on lakes, creeks, runoffs, and other like bodies of water have gorgeous views and are often more secluded with lots of wildlife. The areas tend to be cozy with small communities. Worton Creek, Mill Pond, and Grays Inn Creek are some of the bodies of water in Kent County that often have waterfront homes for sale.

Chesapeake Bay Properties

Homes on the Chesapeake Bay are very popular. This waterfront area has some of the best views that Maryland has to offer. These properties often have more access to boating and water or recreational sports, as well as shopping and entertainment. Although the water is often cloudy, the area is full of wildlife and home to some of Maryland's best sunsets.

Know Which Communities You're Interested In

Before you visit any waterfront properties, figure out what towns you're interested in moving to. In Kent County, Maryland, some communities are on the smaller side and offer more seclusion but fewer amenities. Other towns are bigger and busier but offer more things to do.

For example, Chestertown is a community located on the Chester River waterfront. The town offers shopping, entertainment, sports, outdoor recreation, and schools, but is busier than smaller communities. Millington is also located on the Chester River but is more secluded with fewer citizens. It does have less shopping, entertainment, and amenities, but still has much to offer within the town.

Rock Hall is on the Chesapeake Bay. The area offers a lot of opportunities, including live music and performances, in-town schools, shopping, water sports, and boating. The Chesapeake Bay also tends to be a busier area but has some of the best views. Other waterfront towns you may consider in the Kent County area include Galena and Kennedyville, which have access to creeks and rivers.

Establish Your List of Amenities

Not every home is the same and the small differences between each property can feel huge when you're trying to find the perfect house. Before looking for homes, create a list of which amenities you consider a “need” and which are a “want.” Knowing these important things will help you avoid any major confusion or stress. While it's difficult to keep emotion out of any real estate transaction, having your list will help you compromise.

Your real estate team will help you manage the showing process and find a home that fits that description. Some amenities that you might consider a “need” in your waterfront house include:

• A big garage - Always know what size of garage you need. For example, you may need a two-car garage.
• Direct access to a dock/beach/etc. - Some waterfront homes may not have a dock, beach, or other similar features.
• Lots of storage space - If you consider large closets, basement storage, or lots of cupboards to be important to you, keep this in mind while house searching.
• A nice kitchen - If you have a big family or love to cook, you'll want to have an updated, roomy kitchen. The kitchen is often the focus of any home. Make sure that it has what you consider important, such as a large counter space, a kitchen island, and updated appliances.
• Roomy bedrooms - Do you have a lot of items and decorations that you like to have in your bedrooms? Communicate with your real estate team to make sure that the properties you view have bigger bedrooms.

Learn the Types of Insurance You'll Need

Waterfront homes often require specific insurance to keep your property safe. For example, most properties will require you to buy flood insurance. This is because many waterfront homes risk being flooded.

Additionally, many waterfront houses are part of a homeowner's association (HOA). You'll need to have the specific insurances that are required by the HOA's regulations. Budgeting these expenses is important. Your real estate team will help you sort out what specific insurance you need. They'll also help you get in touch with the best insurance agencies so you are secure and safe in your new home!

Understand the Drawbacks of a Waterfront Home

Waterfront homes are one of the most exciting, beautiful properties that are available. They're like a constant vacation! However, there are some things you need to be aware of. Sometimes the waterfront property needs extra maintenance because of water damage, salt erosion, and flooding. However, with the proper insurance and protection on your property, this typically won't become a problem.

Some homes also have specific regulations through the owners of the body of water that you have to follow, such as the access you have to the body of water. But–don't stress! Your real estate team will help you tackle these difficulties and find the perfect property that has no major downsides!

Contact the Sutton Team to Find the Perfect Kent County Waterfront Home

Now that you have all the information necessary to buy a waterfront home, it's time that you find your perfect property! The Sutton Team is ready to help you find the waterfront house that you've been dreaming of. Our real estate agents have years of experience dealing with properties in the Kent County area. If you are looking for estate for sale in Chestertown or its surroundings, get in contact with us today!