Expert tips for selling your waterfront property

Thanks to their exceptional locations, waterfront homes have a distinctive and enduring appeal - as reflected in the latest edition of Knight Frank’s Waterfront Homes, which reports a 51% average premium for UK properties by the water. Selling these homes, however, comes with its own set of considerations, from timing and presentation to specialist buyer expectations. Here, Knight Frank’s waterfront experts share their top tips for navigating this unique market.

Understand the buyer

When it comes to waterfront homes, it’s often not the property itself - or even the exact location - that tops buyers’ wishlists, but the unique way of life they offer. Mark Proctor, Regional Partner at Knight Frank and a specialist in the South West, explains that many of the buyers he works with have a sailing background or a strong connection to the water. “Those searching for a waterfront property tend to be led more by the house and lifestyle and may be looking in multiple locations. With the rise of remote working we’re also increasingly seeing more people permanently relocate here, alongside those looking from overseas,” he says.

Given this, it’s essential to work with an agent who not only understands the motivations of these buyers but also has international reach. “We’ve seen increased interest from buyers in America and Asia, particularly at the top end of the market, so having strong global exposure can be absolutely key,” he adds.

6-bedroom house for sale in Tamarisk Way, East Preston, Littlehampton, West Sussex, BN16

Have the right pricing strategy

As the saying goes, you only get one chance to make a first impression - and this applies not just to the property itself, but also to how it’s marketed. Pricing your property correctly can be crucial in garnering the right interest in the current market, with properties selling on average at 93% of asking price. Proctor advises leaning on your agent’s expertise to set a realistic and effective number. “Positioning a waterfront property within the right bracket is absolutely key when bringing it to market. When combined with choosing an agent who has wide-reaching connections, there is still demand for high quality waterfront homes.”

Get your timing right

Jack Newland, Knight Frank’s Head of New Forest and Isle of Wight, highlights that timing is especially crucial when selling coastal homes. “It’s the most seasonal market I’ve ever worked in,” he explains. “Buyers may search for multiple months to find the perfect property, typically starting in April and wrapping up by October, then returning the following year if needed.”

Summer’s good weather not only helps showcase the appeal of beachside living but also provides the perfect conditions to present your property at its best. “No one wants to view a waterfront home in the rain, so make sure any photography is scheduled during prime weather with plenty of sunshine,” Newland advises. “It’s also important to factor in tide times, especially when using drone photography.”

4-bedroom house for sale in Fairview Road, Dartmouth, Devon, TQ6

Present your property in the best light

Waterfront living is all about embracing the natural surroundings, so every aspect of the home should be designed to maximise those breathtaking views. This might mean decluttering and removing excess furniture near windows to keep sightlines clear. A polished presentation, with any minor issues carefully addressed, ensures buyers focus solely on the stunning scenery.

This attention to detail should extend outside as well, where curb appeal plays a vital role. “Coastal properties can be exposed to harsher environmental conditions than inland homes, such as seawater, strong winds and humidity, all of which can cause paint to fade, peel, or deteriorate more quickly,” says Georgie Veale, Senior Negotiator at Knight Frank. “Keeping the exterior freshly painted and well maintained is essential to making an inviting impression.”

5-bedroom house for sale in Loddon Drive, Wargrave, Berkshire, RG10.

Have your paperwork in order

Knowing your property’s history and having all the relevant paperwork ready is always helpful when preparing to sell. With waterfront properties, however, there are often additional complexities and questions that potential buyers will want answered. “There’s more dotting of the i’s and crossing of the t’s when it comes to waterfront homes,” explains Newland. “For instance, do you own any of the foreshore? Do you have the right to moor a boat? What is the depth of the water directly adjacent to the property to ensure there’s enough clearance? Having this information at your fingertips will help make the selling process much smoother.”

Read the 2025 edition of Waterfront Homes for further insights and property inspiration.