5 Ways Living By the Coast Affects Your Home | The Listing Team

There are many things to consider when choosing a coastal move. You might fantasize about stepping outside your front door into the Florida sun and sand, but these homes have some differences from your standard neighborhood.

Being on the coast can improve your physical and mental health, produce new friendships and give you full access to the sand and waves. Whether you want to live there full-time or for vacations, here is how living on the coast affects your new home.

1. More People Around

The coast attracts many permanent residents and vacationers who crave the sand and sunshine. However, that can mean having a residence close to world travelers and your neighbors.

Having a home around so many demographics can be an excellent way to socialize and make friends. There’s always something to do on the coast and having a home there opens up more opportunities for positive relationships formed through your favorite activities.

You’re more likely to see other people when you’re outside your home, whether they’re visiting the beach or relaxing next door. Installing blackout curtains or shades can help you gain privacy when necessary. Adding a screened-in porch or privacy fence allows you to enjoy outside without tourists and neighbors knowing everything you do.

2. New Weather Experiences

When you live on the coast, chances are you’ll have mild weather most of the time, though it’s good to stay prepared for new experiences you and your home may face. While many houses there are built to survive hurricanes and tsunamis, these storms can be harmful without having a plan in place.

The further south you are, the more likely you will experience a hurricane. The storms originate from the ocean and are part of living in the area, just as the midwest is prone to tornadoes and California is prone to earthquakes. You can stay safe by maintaining your home to protect against storm damage and keeping an emergency kit.

It’s a good idea to determine where you will travel for safety and your hotel options. Knowing where you can stay and having those contacts on hand can help you secure lodgings quickly during a temporary evacuation.

Though there is a storm risk, the benefits of living in warm weather can be more than worth it. The increased vitamin D can contribute to better physical and mental health. A home near the water can also help ward off mental health symptoms and help you feel at peace.

3. Better Insulation

When you think of moving to the coast, you might think your house won’t need as much insulation since it’s a warmer climate. However, insulating windows and doors is worth the investment.

Double- to triple-paned windows can prevent the heat from the sun from entering an already warm home. Sturdy doors limit the cracks and creases that let excess heat in. Ensure proper seals around your doors, windows and any other openings for the same reason.

Not only does the insulation keep your home cooler, but it also lowers your energy bill since your air conditioner won’t have to work as hard. An insulated home gives you the best of both worlds, letting you soak up the sun’s heat and cool down indoors.

Temperature regulation can improve your physical and mental well-being. Feeling comfortable is a necessary part of reducing stress. Sunshine during the day can lift your spirits, calm your mind and help you accomplish your desired activity level. A cooler temperature at night can help you sleep, so you’re ready to take on the next adventure.

4. Different Maintenance

Living close to the ocean requires different maintenance considerations than away from the salt. The humidity increases the risk of mold, which can cause some health issues when unmanaged.

Salt air can help your body thrive but can damage paint and wallpaper and corrode different materials. You can combat this by choosing suitable materials and using treatment options.

Houses on the beach are higher to protect against storms, so examine their stilts regularly to keep them in top shape. Salt can build up on your home’s exterior, eventually causing problems. You can prevent damage by pressure washing it every six months to remove the salt and make your coastal home shine.

5. Improved Air Quality

Research shows the coast has better air quality than other areas, making keeping clean air in your home easier. When your house has cleaner air coming in, your filter won’t have to work as hard to remove pollutants.

You and your family are less likely to experience allergies and other respiratory irritations with cleaner air. It can also boost your mental health, helping you enjoy all the coast has to offer. Breathing in pollutants can increase your risk of anxiety and depression, while breathing in detoxified air can combat those symptoms.

Poor air quality is a cause of many health problems, including heart disease and cancer. Having a coastal home could help you live a longer, healthier life.

Moving to the Coast

Living by the coast has many benefits for your health and social life, but there are some special considerations when owning a home there. By taking the proper measures, you can fully enjoy your coastal paradise.