5 Tips to Buying Waterfront Property in 2026

Things feel different in 2026 and that is not a reason to be scared but rather wise and more intentional with your real estate purchase decisions. Below are 5 Tips to buying Waterfront Real Estate in Central Texas in 2026:

1) Invest in the BEST waterfront you can afford. As with anything the BEST property has the most demand. Look for properties that are special, unique, with excellent waterfront. This will equate to property that the most buyers will want to buy from you but also a property that you will enjoy owning

2) Consider investing in a property that offers improvements that you could see yourself living in long term. Buying a lake cabin is nice but if things ever get to the point where you want or need to live at the lake, owning something that allows for that, and comfortably, will prove to be a wise investment. You never know but full time Lake Life could be calling your name!

3) Pay close attention to necessary amenities (grocery, hospital, dining, etc) and their proximity to the property you are buying. Convenience is a very important piece of lifestyle and some areas of the lake are more remote. Driving long distances to buy food or access healthcare could be more of an inconvenience than you think.

4) Many buyers underestimate the true cost of remodeling and upgrading. I am seeing a trend of wealthy buyers choosing to buy properties that are move-in ready and recently updated because they realize the cost and associated hassle associated with buying the alternative. Tariffs, inflation and a tightened labor market means the price of renovations and construction will continue to rise for the foreseeable future.

5) Pay close attention to replacement cost. Everyone is usually so focused on the “deal” measured by how much below asking price they can buy a given property. Instead I believe its important to consider replacement cost. How much would it cost to buy a similar lot and create a similar home with dock, landscape etc. In my opinion this is a great indicator of value because prices have gone up significantly and many buyers are out of touch with this change.

If you are considering buying a waterfront home in central Texas on Lake LBJ or Lake Marble Falls give me a call. I don’t just sell here but I actually live here, on the water, and can help you buy right. Leverage my years of experience to make sound investment decisions in the Texas Hill Country.