The Hidden Cost of Utilities

January 31, 2012

Often, waterfront properties are more remotely located than standard housing options—both a benefit and a liability to homeowners. While a home that’s “off the beaten path” is attractive in terms of privacy and peace, to a homeowner accustomed to city or suburban living, they may forget to check on the services that are assumed as standard in urban living, such as electricity, city water service, septic services, cable and high-speed internet connections. In rural or remote waterfront properties, these services may not be standard, or even readily accessible—in some cases, they may not be accessible at all, so a wise homeowner will make sure to have their REALTOR® investigate what kinds of services are included with the property, what services are not, and by what means services that are not standard may be obtained or installed in the property. 

In many instances, waterfront homes operate on well systems and these types of properties often have delicate plumbing and may require additional septic services to ensure water quality and sanitation. Additionally, many rural waterfront properties are not wired for cable or high-speed internet as a standard home amenity and may require the services of a contractor to ensure proper installation and code compliance.