Are you dreaming of owning a second home? When purchasing a vacation or second home, buyers need to consider a combination of factors to choose the property that best suits their needs and preferences. Whether you envision a cozy beach cottage or a rustic mountain retreat, selecting the right location is crucial. Here are some tips to help you make the best choice for your second home:
Return Visitors?
In some cases, buyers may be very familiar with an area because they have been enjoying it for years. When they are sure that the area is their favorite vacation destination—or retirement is approaching—they will be ready to consider purchasing property. Even if you know the area, all of your time there may have been during the same season. Second-home buyers should also compare not only individual properties in their targeted area, but also alternative nearby locales. Before making a purchase commitment, especially if purchasing a home in anticipation of retirement, you should visit the area during both peak and off season. You will gain a firsthand experience of off-season living. If you plan to switch from seasonal to year-round occupancy, aspects to consider are:
- Will the weather be too cold or hot?
- Will access to and from the property be hindered by road conditions or traffic congestion?
- Will the same levels of services and shopping facilities be available year round?
- Will the range of activities be varied enough so that there is always something interesting to do?
- Will peak-season visitors be too noisy or disruptive?
Infrastructure and Services
Availability of health care services is often a very important factor for second home buyers, particularly retirees. Also important is a variety of private services, such as banking, mail delivery, broadband Internet service, home and auto repairs, landscaping, spas and beauty salons, and public and private airports, among others. Infrastructure concerns might include adequacy of utilities, public transportation, police and fire protection, streets and roads, and both the quantity and quality of the water supply.
Safety and Security
Personal safety and property security are major factors in choosing a location, especially for absentee owners. In many instances, vacation-home buyers, particularly city dwellers, will be looking for a safer environment than that of their primary residence.
Activities
The more activities an area offers in close proximity, the more appealing it is to a second-home buyer. Does the area you are looking at have outdoor activities year round, such as parks, reserves, tourist attractions, recreational areas, golf courses, hiking, climbing, biking, running and walking trails, beaches and swimming, and skiing, among others.
You should consider the activities you most enjoy during vacations now, such as water sports, hiking, bird and wildlife watching, cultural events, and shopping; will you enjoy the same activities over the long term as tastes and physical capabilities mature? Are there any activities you would like to cultivate in the future?
Entertainment
Increasingly, second-home buyers choose locations that offer a variety of cultural activities, such as festivals, theaters, dance productions, art exhibits and galleries, and museums. A variety of restaurants and entertainment is also an important consideration for a prospective second-home buyer.
Shopping
Even though second-home buyers may be looking for a getaway place to relax and enjoy nature, a range of shopping options is still an important factor. At the least, you will be interested in general shopping, such as grocery, clothing, housewares, and hardware stores. Specialty stores such as boutiques, antique stores, gift shops, sports shops, hobby shops, and art galleries may also be attractive.
Tourism
Seasonal tourism is a factor in choosing a location. The features of a location that attract second-home buyers also attract tourists who are potential renters. You will want to know if tourists and traffic congestion overwhelm the area during high season.
Scenic Views
Scenic views are an important element in choosing a property. You will want assurance that today’s scenic view will not be obstructed by tomorrow’s development. Or at least be informed that it might be in the future. Obstruction of sunlight and scenic views is a controversial issue, particularly in areas where new multi-unit development mixes with older single-family homes. Both government and nongovernmental organizations may try to protect the visual environment through open space easements or restrictions on construction of homes or commercial buildings that would block the view.
Climate
All of the seasons may play a significant role in the desirability of a property, even if you intend to use the home in only one or two seasons. Because vacation-home buyers are often seeking a place to spend time outdoors enjoying their favorite sports or activities, climate is a very important consideration. Along with weather, natural forces like earthquakes, wildfires, and flooding can impact selection of a second-home location.
Final Thoughts
Remember, selecting a second home location is a personal choice. Take your time, do your research, and trust your instincts. With careful consideration, you can find the perfect location for your second home and create a haven for relaxation and enjoyment.
