We all know that Texas offers some of the best geological diversity in the country, and that means that when it comes time to invest in real estate there’s something for everyone.

This is especially great news for prospective buyers looking for waterfront property: no matter what you value, chances are Texas has it. Whether you’re a hunter, a water sports enthusiast, or just a recreational swimmer longing to escape the hot summer climate, our team has put together a guide to buying land with water to help you out. 

Getting Your Feet Wet

First things first: what is waterfront property? It’s important to know the exact definition and understand some examples to know what you’re buying and what you want to look for. The defining factor for what truly qualifies as waterfront property is anything that has riparian rights, meaning property where you have direct access to the water. You may have your eye on a great beach house a literal stone’s throw away from the Gulf, but if someone owns the strip of land where the water hits the shore, you don’t have waterfront property — you just have a great view. 

In Texas, there are three main types of waterfront properties you can expect to find listings for. 

• Any lakefront property. Texas doesn’t have many natural lakes, but with roughly seven thousand man-made lakes to choose from, there are plenty of great lakefront options for boating, cookouts, and swimming. There are even ranches with lakes for those who need a little more acreage.
• Any land bordering a creek, river, or pond. Whether you’re interested in a tank for your livestock, a fishing spot, or to go tubing down the river, so long as it connects to the water, it counts as waterfront property. For hunters, this type of waterfront access can be a great opportunity to develop your property into a sportsman’s haven.
• Any area on the southeast coast with land bordering the Gulf of Mexico. The United States’ so-called Third Coast is a popular destination for offshore fishing, beach trips, and all sorts of summer amusement. 

Things to Consider

No matter what kind of waterfront property appeals to you, buying land on the water carries extra considerations compared to your average real estate purchase. Here are some things to be mindful of when putting together your shopping list. 

• Don’t get distracted by the house. It’s much easier to build a new house than it is to start from scratch buying property, so if there’s an existing house on the land it should take a backseat to what the property offers. If the view isn’t good, you aren’t likely to fix it. If privacy is what you want, look to see if you’re likely to get it. Look at the water itself: does it offer the quality for swimming or fishing you crave? You’re buying waterfront land for a reason, so make sure you love the property!
• Think about the elements. When you’re looking at waterfront property, chances are it’s in an area where weather can potentially have a major impact on your life. The land may seem like a good deal, but if you’re in hurricane territory or a flood plain, you can wind up with higher costs down the road, whether it’s repairs or insurance premiums. 
• Plan for all the bills. If you’re looking at waterfront property for a full-time residence, be aware of the potential cost of your utilities. In some areas this may not be an issue, but an off-the-beaten-path paradise can pack a hefty financial punch when it comes to the amenities. In general, things like septic systems, cable/internet, and even electricity access should never be taken for granted in rural areas. 
• Be aware of rules and regulations. Waterfront property can come with extra restrictions, which can grind your plans to a halt. Don’t assume that the waterfront activities you enjoy are permitted, and don’t assume that any construction you may want to do will be allowed. In many cases these things won’t be a problem, but you should always check before signing on the dotted line.

With these rules of thumb in mind, you’re well on your way to finding the right piece of property, so long as you can find a real estate agent who specializes in waterfront land. Fortunately, the team at TexasLand has all the knowledge you need to make sure you swim — not sink. 

TexasLand Helps You Find the Best Waterfront Land

Finding the right waterfront property can be complex, but with the right experts on your side, it doesn’t have to be complicated. Our team knows the ins and outs of every stretch of land in Texas, so no matter what you’re looking for, we’re happy to bring our knowledge to your corner.  

At TexasLand we know that there is no “one size fits all” approach to waterfront property, so expect us to work directly with you to find land that perfectly fits your vision. We personally preview hundreds of properties every year so that our clients can get right to the best of the best. Whether you’re looking for the perfect spot for your dream home, a nice bit of duck hunting, or a summer water skiing paradise, we are happy to help you find the right fit. Contact us today to start your journey toward owning a bit of waterfront heaven.