Challenges Involved in Finding Good Beachfront Property for Sale in the Philippines

Beachfront real estate is an attractive investment prospect for many property buyers in the Philippines and with more than 7,600 islands, the country has more than enough beachfront to meet the demand. Like other property investments, beachfront real estate comes with its own set of challenges unique to a location that has very different conditions than a regular, landlocked property. While a beachfront location is coveted by many property investors, there are many things you should consider before saying yes to a beachfront deal:

• Natural calamities – With a mortgage loan spanning a couple of decades, you want a property that will last long and maintain its quality throughout and beyond your loan period. Perhaps the greatest concern beachfront property buyers should consider is the longevity of the property. Beachfront homes are prone to exposure to natural calamities that threaten their quality. Typhoons, high humidity, and shifting shorelines, can affect the structural integrity of these properties, which is why it is important to inspect your prospect investment for compliance with the appropriate building codes and standards. Maintenance can also be a bit of a challenge and additional cost because of these unique conditions.

• Extent of ownership – All beaches in the country are owned by the state. This means that to buy a beachfront house, you also need to acquire a foreshore lease from the government, which in effect, will allow you possession and control over the area, but only as a lessee. A foreshore lessee has control over the beach from the low tide to the hightide mark and may not build any permanent structure within 30 meters of the high tide mark.

• Accessibility – Beachfront locations may not be as well served by public transportation as other property locations. This should also be a major consideration whether you plan to use the property as a vacation home, a retirement refuge, or a vacation rental.