By Hannah Whittenly
If owning a home by the ocean is your ultimate dream, today’s real estate market makes it much easier to make that dream a reality. However, with so many beautiful beaches to choose from, it can be difficult to decide where that dream home should be. Here are four beautiful—and affordable—options to help you narrow down your search.
Corpus Christi, Texas
Located near Padre and Mustang Islands, Corpus Christi has been called the Texas Riviera. There are 11 beaches, two marinas and the average temperature is 70 degrees Fahrenheit. There's also an average of 255 sunny days each year and two-thirds of the area is covered by water. Corpus Christi has four distinct areas that are like small cities in and of themselves. The Padre Island National Seashore is the longest undeveloped barrier island in the world. Vehicles are permitted on the beach, where you can find rare birds, climb an observation tower or simply relax in a beach chair. The average cost of a house or condo in Corpus Christi in 2016 was $132,400, less than the $161,500 Texas average.
Daytona Beach, Fla.
Daytona Beach is more than just a location for spring breakers or race fans. Many residents enjoy fishing from boats or piers while others spend their free time on the many golf courses in the area. U.S. News & World Report ranks the beach town as the seventh best place to retire in the country. The average home price is $163,815, the average high temperature is 81 degrees Fahrenheit and there is less than 50 inches of rainfall each year. There are plenty of places to hike, camp, kayak and swim in the area, as well as view wildlife, like manatees, gopher tortoises, dolphins and wild boar. If this beach town is of interest to you, don’t hesitate to call a REALTOR®.
Atlantic City, N.J.
Atlantic City is coming back from decades of neglect and corruption. The town has not completely bounced back from the recession, so housing prices are still low, with an average of $117,500. The casinos along the infamous Atlantic City Boardwalk offer a wide variety of entertainment and the beaches are exceptionally large. Atlantic City also has a fascinating history and a loyal community of residents.
North Bend, Ore.
Only three hours outside of Seattle, North Bend has windswept shores, whale-watching and activities throughout the year. Because it is located on a peninsula, there are many oceanfront properties available. The average home costs $165,000, although oceanfront properties are priced slightly higher, with an average cost of $232,500. It is the perfect beach town for golf lovers since the Bandon Dunes Resort is nearby. If you prefer hiking, the Umpqua Dunes in northern Coos County are the largest in Oregon and, since they are off limits to off-highway vehicles, the perfect place for a hike.
If you are ready to purchase your dream beach home, consider these four areas during your search. They are affordable and offer many exciting year-round activities.
Hannah Whittenly is a freelance writer and ocean explorer. For your real estate needs in Daytona Beach, Florida, Hannah recommends Adams, Cameron and Co., Realtors.
