Docks, Docs, and Southern Maryland Shores: The Ultimate Guide to Waterfront Living

Are you dreaming of a waterfront home in Southern Maryland with your own personal dock? The good news is that you're not alone! Many people are drawn to the beauty and tranquility of waterfront living, and the ability to have a dock is just the cherry on top.

But owning a waterfront home with a dock can be a lot of work, as well as incredibly rewarding. So, in this blog, we'll provide you with some helpful tips on maintaining your dock and home exterior, as well as detailed information on waterfront communities in Southern Maryland.

Tips for Maintaining Your Dock & Home Exterior

1. Regular inspections

Regularly inspect your dock for damage or wear and tear. Check the wood planks for any signs of rot and look for any loose nails or screws. If you find any issues, be sure to address them promptly to avoid further damage.

2. Pressure washing

Pressure wash your dock at least once a year to keep it clean and looking new. This will also help prevent the growth of mold and mildew.

3. Wood treatment

Treat the wood on your dock every few years to protect it from the elements. A sealant or stain can help prevent water damage and keep the wood looking beautiful.

4. Home exterior maintenance

Keep the exterior of your home clean and well-maintained. Living on the waterfront can mean exposure to salt water and harsh winds, so regular cleaning and upkeep is key.

Now that you have some tips on maintaining your dock and home exterior, let's talk about some of the best waterfront communities in Southern Maryland:

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Chesapeake Beach

This charming waterfront town has a variety of homes with docks, from cozy cottages to luxurious waterfront estates. Residents can enjoy fishing, boating, and swimming in the Chesapeake Bay. The community also offers a boardwalk, waterpark, and a variety of summer events and festivals.

Solomons Island

Located on the Patuxent River, Solomons Island is a popular destination for boaters and water enthusiasts. The community has a variety of homes with private docks and is also home to several marinas. Solomons Island boasts a variety of restaurants, shops, and waterfront activities, including kayaking and paddleboarding.

Hollywood

This waterfront town is located on the banks of the Patuxent River and offers a variety of homes with private docks. Residents can enjoy fishing, crabbing, and boating right from their own backyard. Hollywood also has a variety of shops, restaurants, and community events.

St. Mary's City

This historic waterfront town is located on the St. Mary's River and is home to St. Mary's College of Maryland. The community has a variety of homes with private docks and residents can enjoy kayaking and paddleboarding on the river. St. Mary's City also offers hiking trails and museums, making it the perfect location for nature and history enthusiasts alike.

Real Estate Documents Required for Selling Waterfront Properties in Southern Maryland

The Chesapeake Bay Act is a critical law governing waterfront properties in Maryland. It was passed in 1970 to protect the Chesapeake Bay from pollution and overdevelopment. The law requires that any development or redevelopment in the Chesapeake Bay watershed meet certain criteria to help prevent pollution and protect the Bay.

This act also affects the sale of waterfront properties in Southern Maryland. Before a property can be sold, the seller must obtain a Water Quality Certification (WQC) from the Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE). This certification ensures that the property meets the requirements of the Chesapeake Bay Act and will not contribute to pollution in the Bay.

When buying or selling a waterfront property, it's important to work with an experienced real estate agent who is familiar with the CBCA and can guide you through the process.

In addition to the CBCA, there are also regulations under the Chesapeake Bay Preservation Act (CBPA) which may affect the sale of a waterfront property. The CBPA is designed to protect the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries by regulating land use and development in the watershed. The act affects properties within 1,000 feet of tidal waters or wetlands and can require additional documentation for the sale of a waterfront property.

While these regulations may seem daunting, there are solutions available to both buyers and sellers within the state. Working with a knowledgeable real estate agent who is familiar with the CBCA and CBPA can help streamline the process and ensure that all necessary documentation is in order.

Owning a waterfront home with a dock in Southern Maryland is a dream for many, and with proper care and maintenance, it can be a rewarding and enjoyable experience. From inspecting your dock for damage to regularly treating the wood, there are steps you can take to ensure that your dock and the exterior of your home remain in top shape.

With a variety of waterfront communities to choose from and knowledgeable real estate agents to guide you through the process, owning a waterfront home in Southern Maryland may just be the perfect fit for you.