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Looking for ways to increase the property value of your lakeside home? Adding a dock can be a great way to do so.

However, not all docks are right for your property, and before you buy one, you need to make sure you've researched and designed your dock carefully.

If you aren't sure where to start, take a look at this guide about floating docks and why they are the best kind of dock for you.

Do Floating Docks Increase Property Value?

The short answer is this: usually.

Though not very common, there are times when adding a dock may not do what you want it to do. Let's explore.

When Will a Dock Not Increase My Property Value?

Let's dig into this question a bit.

Adding a dock will pretty much always increase your property value. However, adding a dock will not necessarily guarantee you make all that money back again when you sell the house.

It depends on what part of the property the dock is on, how long the dock is, what it is made out of, and how deep the water is in that part of the lake.

Yet, if you get the right dock on the right property, it can up the property value so much you'll see a nice return on your investment.

Just make sure you spend some time researching, planning, and designing your dock. Don't just throw one in without a lot of thought or else you may not make your money back.

How Much Value Will a Dock Add?

The value that your dock will add largely depends on what type of property you have, what the lake is like, and what kind of dock you invest in.

That said, on average, a dock can increase your property value by about $14,000 to $20,000.

What Kind of Dock Should I Get?

There are two different kinds of docks: floating docks and stationary docks. They both have their pros and cons, but you'll generally want to choose a floating dock for your property.

Why?

Floating docks have slightly more pros than stationary docks. They are also easy to install and to use.

Here's a quick comparison of floating and stationary docks.

Stationary Docks

A stationary dock rests on the ground underneath the water, which makes it a stable place to throw the occasional lakeside party or family gathering.

Stable dock pros:

• It can be used as an extension of your property.
• Depending on the model you choose, you may be able to save money
• The dock doesn't shake, sway, or move

Stable dock cons:

• It doesn't move with the water levels, so there will be a large gap between the dock and the water at different tides.
• It can be hard to step in and out of your boat if the water is too low.

If boating is your primary dock goal, a stationary dock isn't the best choice.

Floating Docks

Unlike stationary docks, floating docks aren't connected to the ground at all. They literally float on top of the water. They can be attached to any existing structure and anchored in any kind of water.

There are a lot of features that make it a more popular choice than a stationary dock.

Floating dock pros:

• They are easy to install.
• You can always add more pieces or change the dock's shape.
• They are durable and don't require any maintenance.
• They rise and sink with the water, so getting in and out of your boat will never be a problem.

Floating dock cons:

• They can sometimes sway and move with the water.
• Because of the movements, they may not be the best place to throw a party.

Floating docks have a lot more practical benefits than stationary docks. However, if the only reason you want a dock is to have a nice place to sit by the water, you may want to stick with a stationary dock.

What Else Can I Do to Increase the Value of My Dock?

The best way to add a little (or a lot) more value to your dock is to add a boat lift. A boat lift can help tremendously in keeping your boat in good condition. It also makes normal maintenance a lot easier.

Let's explore these benefits.

Keeps Your Boat from Absorbing Water

Though boats are designed for water, keeping them in water can make your boat deteriorate faster. The hull can start to blister, algae can grow on the bottom of the boat, and the entire boat can just wear out faster.

Keeps Your Boat Protected

Waters always rise and fall, and depending on where you live, that can cause a lot of damage to your boat.

If the water gets too low, your boat can hit debris. Violent water action during a storm or changes to the water during various seasons can also have a negative impact on your boat.

Saves Time During Maintenance Checks

You occasionally need to check your boat for leaks, cracks, and other damages on the hull before you can use it safely. With a boat lift, you can easily inspect the boat, and you reduce the risk of damaging it in the process.

Easy to Get on the Water

All you have to do is get in the boat and drive off the lift. It's a simple way to keep your boat protected and gives you a good boating season.

Should I Get a Floating Dock?

In most cases, floating docks increase the value of your property, and they will help your house sell fast. Everyone wants a dock, especially if they can get it without dealing with the trouble of installing it. They will enjoy the dock even more (and you'll probably enjoy a bigger return on investment) if you go ahead and add a boat lift too.

Ready to install your floating dock? Check out some of our services.