Palm Beach is renowned for its gorgeous white-sand beaches, historic landmarks, luxurious resorts, and first-rate amenities. Nestled on a barrier island separated from the mainland by the Intracoastal Waterway, the town also offers a picturesque coastal setting. This makes it a highly coveted location for luxury homebuyers looking forward to an enjoyable, laidback lifestyle in Florida.
A luxury waterfront home in Palm Beach offers many unique benefits, from breathtaking views and exciting activities to convenient water access. The town features an impressive selection of waterfront residences designed to suit the needs and preferences of buyers seeking an outstanding quality of life by the water. Those searching for the finest luxury waterfront homes for sale will be able to choose from a wide variety of real estate options, from amenity-rich condos to sprawling estates equipped with an array of first-class features.
To help you navigate Palm Beach’s exciting luxury real estate market, here’s an informative guide about buying luxury waterfront homes in the area.
Table of Contents:
KEY FACTORS TO CONSIDER WHEN BUYING A LUXURY WATERFRONT HOME
Before starting your search for luxury waterfront homes for sale, it’s important to establish clear goals, research local regulations, and take a closer look at why you want to own a waterfront home in the first place. This will help you make well-informed decisions , which will guide you toward finding a home you’ll enjoy for years to come.
Here are several key factors for you to consider:
- The Property as a Whole
When you’re searching for a waterfront home, avoid making the mistake of focusing only on the home and ignoring other parts of the property.
For example, the views from the home might be spectacular, but you might learn that it can be difficult to get to the water. And once you get to the shore, you might find it’s actually thick with weeds, or it doesn’t look as attractive upon closer inspection.
Keep in mind that there’s nothing you can change about the water and the home’s location, so you want to make sure it meets your standards before making any final decisions.
- Privacy
Some waterfront homes provide more privacy than others depending on their location. Determining how much you value privacy will guide you during your search. This applies especially if the property you’re considering is located in an area with many neighboring homes.
Some residences might share common spaces like pathways and beachfront areas, or could be directly facing another home. There are also homes located in areas that get heavy foot traffic, making it more exposed to occasional passersby. A waterfront home with plenty of acreage is a great choice if privacy is a major concern. More acreage offers more privacy since there will be greater distances between your home, neighboring properties, and public areas.
Look at the water as well and consider the general activity in the area. Some waterfront homes may not offer much privacy from the water, especially if they are located near tourist hotspots.
- Recreational Opportunities
A core element of a waterfront home is the lifestyle it provides. Before browsing listings, being realistic about how you plan to make use of your waterfront home will be extremely important.
Think about how a luxury waterfront home will enhance your family’s lifestyle. Do you enjoy fishing on a boat, or do you prefer to navigate the waters on a kayak? Or perhaps beach access is all you need? Taking a closer look at the activities or perks you enjoy will guide you toward finding an ideal waterfront home that matches your lifestyle.
- Additions
If you’re planning to make changes to your waterfront home, you’ll need to look into the rules and regulations set by the city and the homeowners’ association.
For example, if boating is the main reason why you want a waterfront home and you plan to build a new dock, you’ll need to double-check requirements to obtain a permit from the city or the homeowners’ association. Typically, the permitting process is cleared through various stages including local homeowners’ association guidelines, county waterfront plans, and state regulations.
Knowing how you plan to maximize your waterfront home will translate to a quicker and easier search for you and your realtor.
- Shoreline and Additional Flood Insurance
The risk of erosion increases significantly when it comes to waterfront properties, so inquiring about fluctuating water levels and finding out if the area has a history of flooding is crucial.
Most standard homeowner’s insurance packages do not cover flooding. If you purchase a residence in an area that experiences flooding, you run the risk of paying for damages out of your own pocket. This is why it’s vital to secure an additional flood insurance policy for your home.
In case you discover red flags such as previous reports of coastal erosion or insufficient information regarding the maintenance history of structures like the dock or boathouse, considering a different location might be the best move.
- Difference Between “Waterfront” and “Water Views”
There’s a big difference between the terms “waterfront” and “water views.” Many first-time waterfront home buyers make the mistake of thinking both terms are interchangeable.
Keep in mind that these two terms define different elements of a home, and are major factors that reflect in price. A waterfront property features direct access to the water and typically has a private dock and pathways leading to and from the water.
On the other hand, a property with water views is one that features views of the water. Although the home might be located close to the water, it’s not something you can instantly access when you head out the door – unlike a waterfront home.
- Risks
Compared to inland properties, waterfront homes face different risks like water and wind damage. You’ll want to check if the property has water-resistant features and is made from materials that are able to withstand harsh conditions. Windows with hurricane-resistant glass and storm shutters, stainless-steel materials, and tall foundations are some features that can help keep a waterfront home in excellent shape.
- Insurance
Coastal properties in Florida require flood coverage, wind coverage, and general hazard coverage. Keep in mind that these three policies do not need to all be under the same insurance company. In many cases, wind coverage is already included in the standard home insurance policy. However, for homes with direct ocean access, most insurance companies will request a wind mitigation inspection and require up-to-code hurricane protection for all exterior openings.
Remember to ask your real estate agent for information regarding insurance requirements for a particular waterfront property.
INSPECTION CHECKLIST FOR LUXURY WATERFRONT HOMES
Notice something unusual during the initial walkthrough? Be sure to take notes so you can ask the right questions during the professional home inspection. Listing down potential trouble spots will also help you make a better choice if you’re choosing between several luxury waterfront homes for sale.
Pay close attention to these items when you’re viewing a waterfront property:
- Seawall
Seawalls are common in Palm Beach waterfront homes and are a key part of the property since they control coastal erosion. The seawall needs to be maintained regularly and constructed out of quality materials such as aluminum, concrete, steel, or vinyl, so they’ll be able to withstand the force of incoming waves.
- Dock
If the waterfront home comes with a dock, check whether it’s properly maintained by the current owner.
Barnacles and other sea creatures that attach themselves to docks are common in Florida waters. Try to see if they’ve accumulated underneath the dock – regular removal is important to prevent damage over time. Scrapes and small holes are easily fixed with wood putty, but significant damage to any part of the dock may require complete replacements. Different parts of the dock such as chains and mechanical pieces rust or come loose with time, so be sure to take note if anything needs repairs or replacements.
- Dock Location
Find out whether the dock is in a safe location with minimal surge risk, and if you’ll need to relocate your boat whenever there’s an incoming storm or hurricane. This means you may need to budget for additional expenses such as safe harbor docking. Fluctuating water levels can also impact a waterfront home, so be sure to talk to your potential neighbors, the current owner, or the home inspector so you can find out what to expect.
- Materials
Depending on the location of your waterfront home, the life expectancy of the materials used can vary widely. Roofs, siding, fences, and other parts of the exterior that are exposed to the elements will be subjected to more wear and tear compared to the same materials used in an inland home. Due to the proximity to the water, metal components are more susceptible to rusting and corrosion, so stainless steel is essential.
To safeguard against heavy rain and storms, windows with storm shutters and impact-resistant glass are crucial.
- Roof
Roofs of waterfront properties take the brunt of the weather and the harsh elements. A home inspector will check whether the shingles and key elements of the roof structure are maintained properly.
- Mold
It’s important to check for any signs of mold. Mold can easily develop in waterfront homes due to humidity and the proximity to the water. Common areas you should inspect for mold are the kitchen, bathrooms, and outdoor living areas. Unusual odors could indicate the presence of mold or mildew.
- Pests
Waterfront homes are highly susceptible to termites and other pests that cause damage to the home’s foundation or woodwork. While this will be covered by a standard home inspection, the home inspector may recommend an additional pest inspection in case there are signs of infestation.
- Electrical
Remember to check all switches and look out for malfunctions. Find out whether all outlets are grounded, if any panels have been updated recently, or if they can accommodate additional appliances or a possible remodel. Your home inspector will provide assistance in this area. Before a home is sold, home inspectors usually check with an electrician to make sure all outlets, panels, fixtures, and appliances are up to code.
BEST PLACES TO BUY LUXURY WATERFRONT REAL ESTATE IN PALM BEACH
Luxury waterfront homebuyers in Palm Beach are spoiled for choice when it comes to location. You’ll be able to find many neighborhoods and developments that offer stylish and elegant residences, gorgeous panoramic views, and convenient access to nearby attractions and amenities.
Below are some of the best places to find luxury waterfront homes for sale in Palm Beach:
Single-family Homes
- El Bravo Park
Nestled on the south section of Palm Beach Island, El Bravo Park boasts an enticing collection of upscale homes, many featuring breathtaking Intracoastal and ocean views. The community is an excellent choice for prospective buyers seeking the finest waterfront homes in Palm Beach, thanks to its selection of expansive estates filled with luxurious features and designed with the highest standards of craftsmanship.
- Tropic Isle
Featuring a prime location tucked between the Intracoastal and the Atlantic Ocean, Tropic Isle is a prestigious enclave offering an exceptional Palm Beach lifestyle. In addition to magnificent water views, luxury homes in Tropic Isle are designed with a seamless combination of privacy, sophistication, and livability.
- Bello Lido
Located north of Palm Beach Island, Bello Lido features a collection of sophisticated waterfront estates in an assortment of elegant, timeless architectural styles. Waterfront residences in this exclusive community offer unsurpassed privacy and take full advantage of the expansive home sites and stunning water views with features such as spacious balconies, private docks, floor-to-ceiling windows, and lush gardens with swimming pools overlooking the Intracoastal.
Condominiums
- Palm Beach Biltmore
Built in 1926 and originally known as the Alba Hotel, Palm Beach Biltmore is a luxury condo development offering 126 residences. Residents of Palm Beach Biltmore savor an unparalleled waterfront lifestyle with beautifully appointed homes highlighted by sweeping views of the Intracoastal, the Atlantic Ocean, and downtown Palm Beach.
Palm Beach Biltmore delivers luxurious resort-style living, with a range of first-class amenities that include two tennis courts, a state-of-the-art fitness center, private beach access, an oceanfront beach club restaurant, and private boat docks.
- Breakers Row
Among the most coveted addresses in Palm Beach is Breakers Row, an exclusive enclave of luxury residences ranging from one to four-bedroom condos with 1,200 to over 5,000 square feet. Residences at Breakers Row provide a distinctive blend of luxury and comfort, with top-quality features such as stylish and spacious interiors, soaring ceilings, gourmet kitchens with premium appliances, gorgeous primary suites, and more.
This collection of luxury oceanfront condos takes full advantage of the development’s prime location with sprawling wraparound terraces overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, perfect for soaking in majestic sunset views.
In addition to elegant residences, residents of Breakers Row get access to exceptional amenities including in-room dining service, fitness center, card room, spa, conference room, private beach, and a residents-only landscaped outdoor pool with private cabanas and whirlpool spas.
- Kirkland House
Boasting a prime location on the corner of Ocean Blvd. and Palm Beach’s iconic Worth Avenue, Kirkland House is among the island’s most prestigious luxury boutique condo developments. Complementing the sun-kissed coastline with its soft yellow façade punctuated by white balconies, the ultra-exclusive development features only 20 residences with four to five bedrooms and average sizes of 4,000 square feet.
Living in Kirkland House places residents minutes away from the ocean and Worth Avenue’s collection of upscale shops, fine dining restaurants, and picturesque vias, creating a luxurious Palm Beach lifestyle like no other.
Ready to begin your search for the finest luxury waterfront homes for sale in Palm Beach? Start by browsing our featured luxury real estate listings here.
FIND YOUR DREAM LUXURY WATERFRONT HOME WITH THE FRISBIE PALM BEACH TEAM
In a highly sought-after real estate market like Palm Beach, it’s important to have top-quality representation. With many listings selling fast and for higher than the asking price, you need a team of local experts at your side to get the best results.
Working with the Frisbie Palm Beach Team puts you in the best position to find the perfect luxury waterfront home that fulfills all of your unique requirements and preferences. Led by top broker-associate and longtime South Florida resident Suzanne Frisbie, the team represents buyers and sellers throughout the greater Palm Beach market, with a focus on high-end residential properties, commercial sales, and rentals.
With our decades of in-depth local market knowledge, quantitative service-oriented approach, and reputation for upholding the highest standards of honesty and integrity, our team is prepared to go above and beyond to help find attractive opportunities and add value to any transaction.
Get in touch with us today by calling 561.373.0941 or sending an email.