 Prudential Lifestyles Real Estate, Brokerage |
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 Beware of the Water Buying or selling waterfront property these days is like navigating a tricky river. Everything may appear smooth on the surface, but there are many hidden rocks. Here's some things to watch out for: Nice beach - but who owns it? You see a property for sale right on a gorgeous lake. The owners have a dock and boathouse etc., but that doesn't mean they own the all property right up to the water. Every municipality and township is different in how they control use of waterfront. Some areas have an un-opened road allowance along the water's edge that the Township owns but doesn't use, so you can't see it. Others have unique by-laws governing development and access. Many of these laws are out-of-date and are being ignored, but they are still there. Always check the survey and talk to the people at the Municipal or Township Office before you buy. Filled Land In Ontario, most land under the water belongs to the crown. Years ago nobody cared much if property owners enlarged their yards by adding some fill along the shoreline but now the Ministry of Natural Resources cares a lot. They even routinely photograph waterfront properties from the air, then compare the photographs with old records. They will hold up the sale of any altered property until someone buys or leases the excess land - by the square foot, at current market value, which they determine. "Improving" the shoreline? Regulations are growing like seaweed in August and they are being strongly enforced. The big concern is fish habitat. That nice, even shoreline you think looks so symmetrical and pretty may destroy fish breeding areas. No breeding area - no fish. How would you like it if someone took away your bedroom? We must protect fish habitat or there won't be any fish left. They are the primary reason this area has been so popular for four thousand years. Any shoreline work requires a permit from the Ministry of the Environment. Work done without a permit may need to be 'restored'. Some areas are also under a Waterfront Authority (the Trent System for one) that further controls development. The bottom line If you are looking to buy or sell any waterfront land, you're wise to use a local Realtor® who has had some waterfront experience. Too many people use an agent that they've worked with elsewhere who may be very good, but doesn't know the lay of the land so to speak. Don't be blindfolded, do everything you can to get all the information you need. At Prudential Lifestyles Real Estate, our Sales Representatives have specialized knowledge about waterfront rules and regulations in our area. When they don't know about a specific situation, they can spot the danger signs and know where to look for the answers. If you need detailed information, just email us or you can call us toll-free from anywhere in Ontario at 1-877-301-HOME (4663) or locally at (705) 327-2222.
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© 1998-2004, An independently owned and operated broker member of Prudential Real Estate Affiliates, Inc. A Prudential Financial company, owner of the trademarks. Used under license. Prudential Financial, Inc. of the United States is not affiliated with Prudential plc which is headquartered in the United Kingdom. |
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