(NC) – As the “boomer” generation ages, more and more people find themselves in the financial position to think about buying a vacation property. Buying a cottage may not be cheap. However, it’s also one of the few ways to convert your family vacation budget into equity that can grow in value year after year. .

People generally want to buy a cottage for fun… but with the right planning, it can also be a wise investment. There are two ways you can benefit – renting it out when you don’t use it and reselling it later for a capital gain. But to realize the best return, remember that as with houses, the three most important factors are: location, location, location.

First, is it on the waterfront? Generally, the premium for waterfront properties is worth it because the cottage will tend to increase in value better over time. Second, how’s the access? Water access cottages can be beautiful, but since you need a boat to get there, the number of potential buyers or renters is limited. That generally means it can’t command the same price or rental fee as a road access cottage. And what about the commute? The closer to a major city the better. It means a shorter drive, and less money for gas. Finally, can it be used all year-round? People prefer access 12 months a year. For example, can the property be used in the winter for skiing, ice fishing or snowmobiling? Today, cottages need to be used for more than just swimming if you are to get maximum value for your money. Don’t forget, it’s far easier to make money investing in areas that are already accepted, than to guess where the next “in” area will be.

It can take a lot of time and effort to preview cottages for sale. To save time, you can start your search with one of the more innovative real estate companies.

For example, Coldwell Banker offers an internet-based property search that can be customized to your dream cottage “wish list”. The Personal Retrieverä search engine emails you when it has a match – complete with pictures.

The most important step in finding the right cottage is finding the right real estate representative. Since you’re likely to be less familiar with the area, facilities, and market value of a cottage than you might be when looking for a home, it’s even more important that you get the advice of a real estate professional. Make an informed choice with the help of someone who knows the area, and all the features and potential that add up to the right cottage for you.