We all want to find a home away from home, and more and more Americans are doing just that. Believe it or not, second homes now make up for 15% of all home sales! That's a sharp increase from previous years.
If you're looking for a beachfront vacation destination or a summer home, then you've come to the right place. Let's talk about how to find the best beach house in Cape Cod or anywhere else you may want to venture!
5. Florida Coast
There are plenty of affordable beachfront homes for sale in Florida. It's a big state with a large coastline, and nearly anyone can afford a second home here.
If you live anywhere in the US, nonstop flights to Florida are often extremely affordable, as so many people from up north frequent these destinations. Sometimes, you can even find flights for under $100 from a city like Boston. That's a trip down the entire east coast for $100 round-trip.
Of course, there are plenty of great tourist attractions in every area of Florida, but if you plan to spend a significant portion of your year in the state, you'll be able to find all of the hidden gems away from the crowds!
Also, almost anywhere that you live in Florida will give you relatively quick access to the beach, even if you live inland. If you don't want to live directly on the water, buying real estate anywhere in Florida will allow for a reasonable drive to the beautiful coasts on either side of the state.
For these reasons and more, Florida is one of the best options on this list for anybody looking for a beachfront property they can visit at any time of the year.
4. The Florida Keys
Yes, we are adding Florida to this list twice. It's called the Sunshine State for a reason and it has some of the nicest beaches in the world, let alone the United States. The best of these beaches lie in the Keys.
Now, there is a downside to the Keys. Real estate can be expensive here, but if you purchase a timeshare or find the right agent, you may get a deal! However, if you do buy a property in the Keys, you'll benefit from being in one of the most exclusive and secluded regions in the US.
The Keys don't look or feel like anywhere else in the US, but the secret is out! They are a truly unique feature located off the coast of Southern Florida, and they act as the perfect getaway for millions of visitors each year. Unsurprisingly, tourism makes up 54% of the economy in the Keys.
Also, the Keys are arguably the most tropical destination you can drive to in the contiguous US, meaning that you can enjoy the beach throughout the entire year. In some parts of Florida, it gets too cold during the winter months, but the keys will stay warm enough for swimming throughout the entire year. If you find you need a break from the snow in February, then this is a great place for you!
3. Mexico
There is plenty of affordable, waterfront real estate in Mexico just waiting to be grabbed. The tourism industry is booming, which means there are frequent flights to major destinations and a large population of US citizens in these areas. Around 6.4 million Americans visit the country each year, so you won't have too much trouble.
Mexico tends to be more affordable than the US, and there are plenty of tropical paradises all around the country. In these areas, flights tend to be very affordable, traveling can be very easy, and many locals will speak perfect English since the US tourism industry is high. This way, you won't feel like you're too far from home!
Prices will vary widely between areas, but you can find large beachfront properties (around 5,000 square feet) for similar prices to much smaller homes in other areas on this list.
However, there is one downside to Mexico, and it's the paperwork. Buying real estate in another country can be challenging, especially if you are taking regular trips to visit the property. However, it's fairly easy for US citizens to travel between the US and Mexico, especially if they obtain the right visas!
2. US Virgin Islands
If you want to feel like you're in another country without having to file the paperwork, then this is the one for you. The US Virgin Islands are likely the most developed US territory with both stunning beaches and mountains. You'll get to experience the crisp, light blue water the Caribbean is known for, and you can legally own property there now without having to worry about travel or residential visas or other excessive paperwork.
Anybody who truly loves spending their time outside will love it here. It's a tropical paradise with pristine waters and beautiful mountains for hiking or simply admiring. You'll be amazed what you can see just out your window here!
Also, the flights to and from the islands are a lot cheaper than you may think. You can easily get round-trip flights for under $350 from nearly anywhere in the US, as they fly frequently.
This is the perfect option for anybody who truly wants the "home away from home" feel. You'll still have a lot of the same luxuries and living standards as you would anywhere else in the US, but a visit to the USVI looks and feels like an entirely new land! Also, the USVI real estate market is not as expensive as you'd think!
1. Beach House Cape Cod
New England charm meets beach town. Cape Cod is one of the most sought-after places in the country for beach life, and if you've ever been there, you know exactly why. Whether you want to have a closer drive to Boston from Sandwich or if you want to be all the way secluded in Provincetown, there's something for everyone.
If you don't know your New England geography, Cape Cod is the hooked peninsula off of Massachusetts with some of the best national seashore views in the country. It's fairly secluded and can be difficult to drive to during peak seasons, but if you already have a home there, then you won't have to worry!
No, it won't be warm all year round like it would be in Florida, but this is the perfect location for a summer home. If you love peace and quiet, year-round living is certainly an option in Cape Cod. It's nice and quiet during the winter and some of the tourist shops will close, but you'll still have access to the local necessities.
If you like clear, blue water, bustling downtown areas, quaint New England architecture, and summer fun, then this is the perfect destination for you. The best part is that it doesn't even get too hot, with average highs averaging 79 in July. Don't worry, the water warms up!
How to Find the Right Beachfront Homes
Now that you know some of the best destinations in the hemisphere, you may be wondering how to start looking. Whether you're a snowbird or you just want to spend your summer vacation at a home away from home, there are options to choose from.
Of course, there are plenty of real estate websites and apps to choose from, but if you're on a budget or you're only looking to spend a week or two of the year in your new home, then we can help you. All you have to do is choose your destination and you'll be matched with timeshares, condos, and homes that meet your budget and timeframe.
The only decision you need to make is the type of investment you want. This is entirely up to your needs, preferences, and vision for your new vacation home.
How often do you see yourself visiting your second home? If you only plan on visiting for one or two weeks of the year, then a timeshare may be perfect for you. Plan on spending half the year there? Then shop for real estate!
Start Your New Life
Now that you know where the best beach homes are, find the right beach house in Cape Cod or anywhere else you might enjoy! There's no shortage of beautiful real estate all around the continent, so find the right one for your needs and enjoy your new home away from home.
Stay up to date with our latest real estate news and tips and feel free to contact us with any questions or for help finding your new dream home!
