Buying an Oceanfront Estate in Palm Beach

Oceanfront estates trade in a thin market. Many sales happen quietly, and the public listing count understates what can actually be bought. Serious buyers usually work through a single representative who can ask owners and listing agents about properties that aren't advertised.

Due diligence on the ocean goes well beyond a standard home inspection. Ask for the property survey, the location of Florida's Coastal Construction Control Line (CCCL) relative to the house, the elevation certificate and flood zone, the condition and permit history of any seawall, dune or beach-access structures, and the roof and impact-glass permits.

Insurance should be quoted before you're under contract. Windstorm and flood premiums on oceanfront homes vary widely with elevation, construction year and roof type, and they affect true carrying cost as much as taxes do.