Watercolor, Florida, is a sought-after coastal community near Seaside and Grayton Beach, master-planned around Western Lake, a large coastal dune lake. The resort and beach town is a luxury 30A community along the Gulf of Mexico.
Watercolor does not leave any detail to chance and is renowned for its commitment to upscale living in a meticulous environment. Housing options follow the same standards and provide comfort and peace, from cozy beach cottages to spacious condominiums and homes with large yards. Most of the homes in Watercolor have a distinct coastal design and color palette, with bright pastels and natural wood accents. The community is also known for its emphasis on outdoor living, with many homes featuring expansive porches and balconies perfect for taking in the sea breezes.
Whether you are searching for a forever home or your dream vacation property, Watercolor is an amazing community to call home. Here’s what to know about buying a home in Watercolor, FL, off Scenic Highway 30A.
Why you should own a home in Watercolor
Watercolor is more than just a place to live; it is a lifestyle. While individual homes are an important part of purchasing a property, living in Watercolor is an investment in the community.
Convenience
Living in Watercolor means convenience in every aspect of life, from easy access to daily essentials to endless opportunities to enjoy beautiful natural surroundings. The community boasts a wealth of local restaurants, boutique shops, and grocery stores, providing opportunities for residents to socialize and immerse themselves in the local culture. Outdoor enthusiasts have plenty to entertain themselves with activities like hiking, biking, and water sports. Whatever lifestyle you want to build, whatever activity you want to enjoy, you can find within Watercolor, saving time and resources for the things that matter most.
Luxury amenities
Residents enjoy access to world-class amenities, including private beach clubs and championship golf courses. The community also hosts various events throughout the year, from farmers’ markets to live music on the green. With endless opportunities for outdoor recreation, residents can spend their days fishing, kayaking, or simply enjoying a sunset stroll on the beach. Private neighborhoods and resorts also provide exceptional amenities like spa services, adult pools, fitness centers, tennis and pickleball, and fine dining. Watersound has everything residents could want.
Cost of buying Watercolor homes
Buying a home can be a significant milestone in one’s life, but it’s also a significant investment. Before purchasing a Watercolor home, consider the various expenses associated with homeownership. A clear understanding of these expenses allows you to budget appropriately and make informed decisions about the type of home and neighborhood that will be the best fit financially.
Closing costs
Closing costs can be a large sum that homebuyers must be aware of when purchasing a Watercolor home. These costs largely depend on the property’s price but typically range from 3%-6% of the overall purchase price. Closing costs can include many fees, such as appraisal costs, loan origination fees, and title insurance fees. In some cases, the seller may pay all closing costs, but it is more likely that the buyer and seller will be responsible for a portion of the closing costs.
Property taxes
Property taxes can vary depending on the property’s location but are typically based on the home’s assessed value. Researching the property tax rate and knowing how it will affect your overall homeownership expenses is important. Property taxes can be an additional expense added to closing costs. As a buyer, thinking through costs like property taxes can help you determine what fees you can pay. It will also keep you attentive to negotiation language, allowing you to better understand your responsibilities moving forward.
Purchase a Watercolor home with these money-saving tips
As expenses for purchasing and maintaining a home add up, it can seem overwhelming to budget and ensure you understand how your finances are being used. Whether you have a strict or unlimited budget, saving money is a wise management tool. Here are several money-saving tips to use as you purchase your Watercolor home:
Find the best mortgage rate
Your home loan’s interest rate can impact your monthly mortgage payments, making it crucial to find the best rate possible. You can research rates from different lenders and compare their offers to find a low rate with terms that meet your needs. Finding the right mortgage may require more time and effort, but you can potentially save thousands of dollars over the life of your loan.
Consider a larger down payment
A larger down payment can reduce the size of your mortgage loan and can lower your monthly mortgage payments. While saving up for a substantial down payment may take longer, it can lead to significant savings over time. A larger down payment may also make you a more attractive buyer to sellers, as it demonstrates financial responsibility and a lower risk of default.
Work on your credit score
A crucial step in buying a home is to improve your credit score if it’s low. A higher score may help you secure a lower interest rate, translating into reduced monthly mortgage payments. One way to boost your score is to pay off outstanding debts on time and in full. Keeping your credit usage low and avoiding new accounts can also help improve your score.
Buy a Watercolor property with a local realtor
When buying a Watercolor home, it is easy to get sidetracked and forgo practical considerations. Searching for a licensed real estate agent who can guide you and help you avoid costly mistakes is a great way to ensure a smooth transaction. A realtor can help you negotiate offers, navigate paperwork, and provide valuable advice on the local housing market. Reach out to friends and coworkers to find a reputable and successful realtor specializing in Watercolor properties for sale.
Garett Huber is a Watercolor real estate agent with expertise in investment and vacation properties in Florida’s coastal communities. Navigate the market and experience a custom approach to the home-buying experience with Garett.