6 Ways to Make Your Ocean View Real Estate Stand Out

If you've recently decided to sell your beachfront property, you probably have lots of questions on how to highlight its unique desirability to make it as appealing as possible to prospective purchasers. Keep in mind that although many people dream of living on or near the beach, the current real estate market is as vast and varied as the ocean itself — and this can pose challenges to those trying to make their property stand up from the rest. Additionally, not all beachfront properties are not the same.

Types of Ocean View Real Estate

Beachfront Villas

These are typically situated at or very near the water's edge, with uninterrupted views and easy access to the ocean.

High-rise Oceanside Condos 

High-rise condos offer panoramic ocean views and a range of luxury amenities.

Seaside Cottages

These quaint options offer a cozy, quiet living experience that is ideal for those seeking a serene sanctuary.

Cliffside Homes

These homes are typically built on elevated land and offer dramatic, sweeping views of the ocean.

Although each of these property types will attract different kinds of buyers, there are nonetheless some common threads when it comes to making a seaside home stand out from the others.

How to Make Your Ocean View Real Estate Stand Out

1. Maximize the View

The view of the ocean is your property's biggest asset, so don't hesitate to make the most of it. Remember that real estate marketing hinges on making potential buyers imagine themselves happily living in the home, so even if the view is so stunning that it speaks for itself, elements such as a tastefully set dining room table right next to the window creates an inviting scene.

2. Create Outdoor Living Spaces

Whether you've got an acre or two of private beach or a small balcony, your outdoor living space of your beachfront property should be more than just an afterthought. Think outdoor fire pits with plenty of comfortable seating, outdoor kitchens, and landscaping that blends seamlessly with the surrounding natural beauty.

Although many people believe that it's hopeless to try to add ornamental plants to seaside locations because so few things grow well in sandy soils, you can grow pretty much everything from roses to small trees to culinary herb gardens in large outdoor containers. Even just a few will add appealing polish and texture to an otherwise naturalized landscape.

3. Introduce Luxury Amenities 

High-end amenities such as spa-quality bathrooms with huge tubs overlooking sweeping natural vistas, state-of-the-art gourmet kitchens, home theaters, a solarium, and even waterfront docks where owners can keep their own boats add both value and appeal to oceanfront properties. Think about the type of person most likely to be interested in living in your area — consider installing an outdoor playground if your location primarily attracts families, or a sophisticated outdoor entertainment area if your target demographic leans more toward professionals or retirees seeking a tranquil setting to relax, unwind, and socialize.

4. Incorporate Sustainable Upgrades

Sustainability is a growing trend in real estate that is showing no signs of slowing down anytime soon. Think about incorporating solar panels and eco-friendly appliances, and use sustainable building materials for any remodeling projects.

5. Highlight the Waterfront Lifestyle

Selling a beachfront property is as much about selling a lifestyle as selling a home. Emphasize the lifestyle of your particular beach community, whether it's serene living away from the hustle and bustle of urban environments, the adventure of water sports such as ocean fishing, or the social life available at local beach clubs.

6. Include Nautical Design Elements and Colors

Waterfront living is all about enjoying nature, so make sure your decor blends seamlessly with the views outside the windows. Use ocean colors such as blue, grays, and sandy neutrals. Most beachfront communities have thriving art scenes, so dress up the place with nautically themed work from a local gallery.

Other Ways to Make Your Beachfront Property Stand Out

Another way to enhance the appeal of your property to buyers is to offer virtual tours that allow interested parties to experience the space and the views from the privacy of their own homes. You should also partner with an experienced real estate agent who understands your community and the type of buyer most likely to be interested in purchasing your home. Be as flexible as possible when it comes to showings and open houses, and consider hiring a professional cleaning service to ensure that your home is putting its best foot forward.

Making your waterfront real estate stand out from the rest requires a blend of showcasing its natural assets, adding value through design and amenities, and offering the best possible customer service to prospective buyers.

Written by Taylor McKnight, Author for HG Christie