Two Costly Mistakes to Avoid When Selling a Waterfront Property. Receive MANY more mistakes to avoid by completing the form on this page:

After 17 years as a Waterfront Property Expert and more than 50 waterfront transactions under my belt, I’ve seen it all—from smooth-as-glass closings to deals that sank like a leaky pontoon.

Here are two all-too-common seller mistakes you’ll want to avoid. (Fill out the form to the left to receive my full list of 10 more mistakes—because these oversights could cost you tens or even hundreds of thousands of dollars.)

Mistake #1 – Listing Without a Current Survey

When it comes to waterfront property, every foot of shoreline can add serious value.

That’s why nearly every buyer’s agent will recommend their client make the offer contingent on a survey.

Here’s why you should have one ready before you list:

Frontage is gold – Buyers will want to know exactly how much they’re getting.

Boundary surprises happen – Older surveys weren’t as precise, and small waterfront lots can easily have encroachments—think sidewalks, landscaping, or even garages nudging across the line. (I’ve seen it more times than I can count.)  Get an survey/lot line issues settled with your neighbor before an offer comes in!

Avoid closing delays – Surveys can take weeks to schedule, and waiting until you have an accepted offer could stall the deal.

Remark those corners – Even if you have an older survey, get a surveyor to clearly mark the property lines before showings. Buyers (and their agents) love clarity.

Mistake #2 – Not Setting an Offer Review Date

If your property is priced right for its location, don’t just post it and wait—strategize.

Set a date—about 7 to 10 days after your listing goes live—when you’ll begin reviewing offers.

Why it works:

Waterfront buyers are often out-of-towners – This gives them time to travel in, tour the property, and make a serious offer.

Generates excitement – A fair, open window for all buyers can create healthy competition.

Multiple offers = higher price – When several buyers are vying for your property at the same time, the final number can sail right past asking.

Pro Tip: These are just two of the 12 costly mistakes I’ve seen waterfront sellers make. Fill out the form to the left to get the complete list—it could be the most profitable 2 minutes you spend all year.