Tag: lake activities

Whiteboard Topics: 6 Expensive Myths For Lake Home Sellers

Posted on Zac Parnell

Now might be the time when you have decided to put your lake house up for sale. Going into it, you might have heard of different rules to follow or maybe even some myths. When it all comes down to it, some of these myths end up costing money for the seller. Lake Homes Realty’s CEO, Glenn Phillips, details 6 expensive myths you might hear.

Myth #1 – The Local MLS and Zillow are Sufficient and Effective: While these platforms are great, that doesn’t take away from the fact that they’re simply not enough. Oftentimes, people who are looking from other parts of the country might have a hard time finding your property through these channels. More niche websites, such as LakeHomes.com, are more efficient for the buyer who is looking for a property like yours.

Myth #2 – An Open House is Critically Important: If you’re selling in a more urban setting, hosting an open house would be beneficial. Because the majority of lake home buyers live somewhere else, it wouldn’t be as useful to host an open house. If they live in another state, they will probably want to see the property, but not necessarily in an open-house setting.

Myth #3 – Zillow’s Zestimate Reflects Current Value: This tool is great for other types of environments; however, with lake properties, they don’t know how to account for factors that are specific to lake properties. Water location, water depth, and seasonal patterns are not always common knowledge, so therefore, the algorithm can’t process them accurately. A lake expert agent will have more insight into these nuances for various properties around the lake.

Myth #4 – Lake Home Buyers Want the Same Type of Homes Popular a Decade Ago: Homes from 10 years ago can have features that give them a rustic feel. However, buyers today might be looking for homes that are updated and feel high-tech.

Myth #5 – Fewer Lake Houses for Sale = Sellers Can Ask a Premium Price: Today’s buyers are more informed than ever before. These buyers know what they want and what they’re willing to pay for. This doesn’t mean they will automatically pay the premium price, which will oftentimes lead to homes just sitting on the market.

Myth #6 – Little Risk in “Testing the Market” with a High Price: The information we have found is that homes starting above market price tend to fail. Starting too high and then cutting shows buyers you’re aiming too high for what your home is actually worth.

Now that you are aware of these myths, you are better prepared to sell your lake home. If you’re getting ready to sell or have started the process, check out the lake experts at LakeHomes.com. They would love to help out if you’re looking for guidance through lake real estate!

Whiteboard Topics: 4 Danger Signs When Interviewing A Lake Real Estate Agent

Posted on Zac Parnell

Selling your lake home can be a difficult and time-consuming process. One of the best things you can do is have a trusted lake real estate agent by your side. However, you shouldn’t just choose any lake agent. You need to ensure the one you choose is willing to help with the full process. Glenn Phillips, Lake Home Realty’s CEO, lays out 4 danger signs when it comes to choosing your agent.

  1. Agent is Not Interviewing the Seller: While you need to interview the agent, the same goes for them interviewing you. It could be a red flag if they come in telling you how great they are and not asking you about what it is you’re looking for. A great agent will always ask what kind of outcome you are expecting.
  2. Will Take Overpriced Listing Without a Plan: A good agent usually has an idea of what your home would typically sell for. If you want to sell it for a higher price and they have a plan if it doesn’t pan out, that’s an agent you’d want on your side. If they’re just willing to put it at that price with no backup if it doesn’t sell, you might need to question that.
  3. Not a Lake Real Estate Expert: Being a lake expert for lake markets is incredibly important. The nuances that encompass lake real estate are something a typical real estate agent probably doesn’t know. Having someone with key knowledge of the lake and area is always something to look for. Working with a lake expert ultimately gets you the maximum return on your investment.
  4. Cannot Explain How They Target Out-of-State Buyers: Simply listing a property on the MLS to target people isn’t enough. Because this isn’t an effective way, LakeHomes.com uses specific marketing and targeting to figure it out. As a result, our agents are able to tell you where people are looking as well as where these buyers are located.

Overall, paying attention to these signs is really important when it comes to choosing who you want to work with. If you’re still not sure when it comes down to it, check out the great lake experts who are ready to help you out at https://www.lakehomes.com/agents.

Fishing Beyond Limits: Top Apps for an Enhanced Experience

Posted on Oscar Gipson
Photo Courtesy of Gink and Gasoline

Fishing has evolved far beyond a simple rod and bait. Gone are the days of relying solely on instinct and experience; now, anglers can leverage the power of smartphone apps to track weather conditions, map out the best fishing spots, log their catches, and connect with other fishermen. These apps are essential companions; whether for seasoned anglers or novices, they help maximize fishing experiences.

FishBrain

Photo Courtesy of Bass Fishing Blog

Fishbrain is a social networking app designed specifically for anglers. With over 15 million catches logged in its database, Fishbrain allows users to log their catches, share photos and tips, and connect with other fishermen in their area. The app also provides detailed fishing forecasts, including water temperature, wind speed, and barometric pressure information.

ANGLR

Photo Courtesy of ANGLR

Are you longing for a solution to plan, track, and analyze your fishing adventures? Look no further than ANGLR! This innovative app enables users to log detailed trip information, such as catch locations, weather conditions, and tackle used. Moreover, ANGLR’s mapping features empower anglers to create custom spots, track routes, and seamlessly share their experiences with others. Additionally, ANGLR offers advanced analytics tools that allow users to identify trends in their fishing data, enabling them to fine-tune their strategies and enhance their success rates over time. With its comprehensive features and user-friendly interface, ANGLR emerges as the ultimate companion for both weekend warriors and seasoned pros looking to elevate their fishing game.

Fishidy

Photo Courtesy of Apple App Store

With access to detailed maps of over 20,000 waterways across the United States, Fishidy provides users with invaluable insights into underwater structures, fishing hotspots, and local fishing reports. Its interactive maps empower anglers to plan their trips with precision, ensuring they target the most promising fishing locations. Moreover, Fishidy’s premium subscription offers advanced mapping and personalized fishing recommendations, maximizing users’ time on the water. By seamlessly combining cutting-edge technology with a vast database of fishing knowledge, Fishidy emerges as an indispensable tool for all anglers.

Navionics

Photo Courtesy of Navionics

Empowering users with detailed maps of lakes, rivers, and coastal areas worldwide, Navionics stands as an essential navigation app for anglers and boating enthusiasts alike. Its features, like depth contours and navigation aids, ensure users navigate unfamiliar waters confidently. Moreover, Navionics encourages community interaction, enabling anglers to share experiences and tips. This app becomes an invaluable companion, providing navigation assistance and creating a collaborative space for users to enhance their maritime expertise.


As the art of fishing embraces the digital age, these innovative apps have become essential companions for anglers, transforming how fishing experiences are planned and executed. From FishBrain’s social networking prowess to ANGLR’s comprehensive trip tracking and analytics tools, each app caters to the diverse needs of anglers, be they seasoned pros or eager novices. Fishidy’s detailed maps and Navionics’ global navigation features further underscore technology’s transformative impact on the fishing landscape. In this interconnected realm of apps, anglers are not just tracking catches or planning routes; they’re fostering a community and enhancing their overall maritime experience. These apps have ushered in a new era where angling isn’t just a pastime but a collaborative and tech-driven adventure.

Whiteboard Topics: 5 Questions Lake Home Buyers Should Answer

Posted on Zac Parnell

Buying a home means asking and answering questions. Before you start the buying process, know that you should be prepared to answer specific questions. Knowing specific things about what you’re looking for will tremendously help your real estate agent and improve the experience. Today, Glenn Phillips, CEO of Lake Homes Realty, explains a few questions you should be ready to answer.

  1. Sunrise or Sunset? If you are looking for a lake home with views, specifically one of these views, you need to know which you prefer. Narrowing down if you’d prefer a sunrise or sunset view can help pinpoint areas of the lake to look at. 
  2. Convenience or Solitude? This is one to really keep in mind. If you want the most privacy you can get, you have to be aware that you may be giving up convenience. This is something to thoroughly think about before making any type of decision. 
  3. People Traffic: Let’s say you do want a lake home with more solitude; you still need to think of the location. You might not have many neighbors, but if the road your home is on leads to even more private properties, there could be more traffic. This can also play into boat traffic. Solitude on land doesn’t always mean the same for the lake.
  4. Waterfront, Water View, or Water Access? Price points can change drastically depending on which of these 3 you’re looking into. Not only that, but what you might think is waterfront could very well just be water access. This is something to keep in mind.
  5. Full-Service or DIY (Do It Yourself)? Are you looking more for a home where you take care of everything or something where people in the community can come and help? Some communities take care of the trash, mow the lawn, and many other things. If you want more responsibility for your lake home, then DIY is where you should be looking.

Being able to answer these 5 questions is important if you’re thinking of buying a lake home. If you’re not sure where to begin with these, check out https://www.lakehomes.com/ for more information. You can also contact one of our lake experts for guidance through the buying process!

Whiteboard Topics: Do Lake Markets Match Reach Estate Headlines?

Posted on Zac Parnell

If you’ve looked for real estate in your life, you’ve seen the different headlines about real estate markets. Now, if you happen to be looking for a lake home, you may think to yourself, “Do those headlines pertain to lake markets, too?” Lake Homes Realty’s CEO, Glenn Phillips, dives into why these don’t typically match up.

  1. Location, Location, Location: This is a big contributing factor for lake real estate. Oftentimes, the headlines revolve around residential properties. The location of a lake changes the property value of a home. In fact, demand, popularity, and price can all be determined by the location of lake homes.
  2. “Phantom” Inventory: Because there is a big demand for lake properties, some homes are selling and some simply aren’t. This can be attributed to what is priced right and what isn’t. This leads the market to look inflated when it’s actually due to this “phantom” inventory. 
  3. Discretionary Homes: Some people who are looking to sell their lake home might be sitting on it due to a lack of urgency. This differs from residential real estate, where many homeowners are trying to sell as soon as possible.
  4. More Second Homes: If the lake property isn’t your main home, you’re not under a time constraint trying to get out and into your next. This leads to longer transaction periods. 
  5. More Investment Properties: Regardless of whether you use it as your second home or as a rental property, you’re putting money into it. What this means is that you’re creating new buyer demand.
  6. Mortgage Rates Not as Influential: It would surprise you how many lake property transactions are made with cash. Having more cash transactions means mortgages aren’t as impactful. 

In other words, these tips should give more insight into the reasoning behind lake market headlines not matching with other real estate. Another great way to gain more information is to reach out to a lake expert. If that’s something you’re thinking about, check out LakeHomes.com/agents to connect with one of our agents today!

Whiteboard Topics: How Weak Real Estate Agents Fool Consumers

Posted on Zac Parnell

Buying or selling a home typically means you’re going to be working with a real estate agent. You might look and look, trying to find the best one. You also might decide to use somebody that you know in the business. When it all boils down, the best thing to do is to choose someone who knows what they’re doing. These strong real estate agents know how to keep on top of everything and not lead you astray. Today, Glenn Phillips, CEO of Lake Homes Realty, discusses how a weaker agent might not be the best fit. 

  1. Years in Real Estate: Someone who has many years in this business might boast about it. While this doesn’t inherently mean they’re not good, it means you need to look at what took place during those years. Were they effective with the market in those years? Or changed things up to ensure success? All these points take precedence over a certain number of years.
  2. High Number of Listings: If they have a high number, that can mean that they are moving transactions. However, some agents have a ton of listings that end up not going anywhere; they simply stay stagnant. 
  3. Number of Certifications: Certifications can play a huge part in becoming a great agent. But those certifications alone aren’t that meaningful if transactions and experiences aren’t there along with them. Being able to apply the certification knowledge comes into play in distinguishing between two types of agents.
  4. Number of Websites: You can have your home listed on many different sites. What it really comes down to, however, is if the website is getting a lot of traffic. More people see your listing on a website like LakeHomes.com as opposed to your home being listed on 10 low-traffic sites.
  5. Office Location: A buyer would much rather see a property as opposed to an office. The typical buyer is much more likely to find a property online and not need to come into an office. At the end of the day, having a physical location doesn’t really move the needle.
  6. Number of Brokerage Agents: Your listing will be put on the Multiple Listing Service (MLS). Agents within that market who have buyers interested will want to bring them to view that property. Having agents at the same brokerage doesn’t really matter when it comes down to it.
  7. Commission % Versus Net $: The biggest thing you need to know is how much you will net in cash when it comes down to selling it. 

These 7 tips can be intersectional in the way that a great agent can have them but still perform well. The thing you need to watch out for is if the agent is using these things to cover lower execution. If you’re looking for a great agent that can help you sell or buy a property, check out LakeHomes.com. There are many agents who would love to help out!

Whiteboard Topics: Is It A Good Time To Buy Or Sell A Lake Home In 2024?

Posted on Zac Parnell

Have you been pondering the idea of buying a lake home? Maybe you’re considering selling the one you currently have. You also might be thinking to yourself, is it even a good time to do either of these things? Lucky for you, Glenn Phillips, Lake Homes Realty’s CEO, discusses whether it’s the right time to buy or sell. 

  1. “Hot”… but Not Exactly: The demand for a lake home is still there. Buyers are continually on the hunt for the property they’ve been dreaming of. On the other end of things, not many transactions are taking place. However, the transaction flow is on the rise. 
  2. FOR SALE Inventory Increasing: There are plenty of properties for sale at the current time. The issue with it is phantom inventory
  3. “Phantom” Inventory: This essentially means there is a property where the seller has overpriced it. Not only is it overpriced, but the buyer can realize the property’s pricing isn’t what it should be. This leads to properties just sitting there and not having a transaction happen. When the property is set at a reasonable price, it moves through the market quickly.
  4. Seller Tip: Do Not Overprice: From a selling point of view, it is a good time to sell. The caveat to that is making sure you know how to properly price your lake home. A good way to ensure this is by contacting one of our lake experts at LakeHomes.com.
  5. Buyer Tip: Patience and Diligence: Making sure you take your time and pay attention to everything going on can help with the buying process. Don’t check in every 2 months or give up after one search. 

If you’re planning to sell, there are always buyers looking, and vice versa. The thing you have to remember is that it is dependent on what your goal is. If you’re selling, remember to not overprice your home, which can ultimately lead to making less in the long run. When it comes to buying, you have to stay on top of it and have patience; it will get you a long way.

Pet-Friendly Plants for Your Lake Home Garden

Posted on Oscar Gipson

Estimated reading time: 3 minutes

Photo Courtesy of Martha Stewart

Your lake home is your oasis—a place of relaxation, recreation, and connection with nature. But what if you share your slice of paradise with furry (or feathered) friends? Don’t worry, pet parents! You can still cultivate a beautiful garden without compromising your pet’s safety. Here’s a guide to creating a vibrant, pet-friendly haven filled with gorgeous greenery.

Blooming Beauties

Photo Courtesy of Love Your Dog
  • Petunias: These cheerful annuals come in a rainbow of colors and are non-toxic to cats and dogs. They thrive in full sun and require minimal maintenance, making them perfect for busy lake house weekends.
  • Marigolds: Not only do these bright blooms deter pesky insects, but they are also non-toxic to your furry companions. Look for dwarf varieties that thrive in containers or garden borders.
  • Snapdragons: These unique and vibrant flowers come in various shapes and sizes; luckily, they pose no threat to your pets. Enjoy their cheerful presence throughout the summer months.

Leafy Delights

Photo Courtesy of Gardener’s Path
  • Spider Plants: These easy-to-care-for beauties are non-toxic and love hanging planters, making them perfect for adding greenery to your porch or balcony.
  • Boston Ferns: Known for their elegant, cascading fronds, Boston Ferns add a touch of lushness to any space. Easy to care for and requiring low light, this fern variety makes for a perfect addition to your indoor or outdoor space.
  • Maidenhair Ferns: These delicate ferns add a touch of whimsy to your garden and are safe for cats and dogs. However, they prefer shaded areas with high humidity, so consider placing them in pots on your covered porch.

Edible and Aromatic Herbs

Photo Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons
  • Rosemary: This fragrant herb adds flavor to your culinary creations and is non-toxic to pets. Grow it in a raised bed or a pot on your deck for easy access and a delightful aroma.
  • Basil: Although a member of the mint family, unlike mint, basil is non-toxic to cats and dogs. One of the most common culinary herbs, basil is versatile and easy to grow. This herb thrives in an outdoor garden as well as indoors.
  • Thyme: This versatile herb is safe for pets and adds a delightful flavor to grilled meats and vegetables. Plant it in a sunny garden or use a hanging pot for easy access.

Remember to ensure the safety of your beloved pets by closely supervising their outdoor activities. If you’re uncertain about the potential risks of a particular plant, seek advice from your veterinarian. Keep in mind that even seemingly harmless plants can lead to digestive issues if consumed excessively. Prioritize your pet’s well-being by thoroughly researching and confirming the suitability of any plant variety before incorporating it into your pet-friendly garden.

Whiteboard Topics: 6 Ways To Protect Yourself From Lake Real Estate Scams

Posted on Zac Parnell

Anyone who has gone through the home-buying process knows it can be tricky. Just like scammers in everyday life, there are real estate scams that many people might fall victim to. Luckily, Lake Homes Realty’s CEO, Glenn Phillips, walks through 6 different ways to protect yourself from these scams. Find out some of the best strategies below or reach out to one of our lake agents at https://www.lakehomes.com/ for more guidance!

  1. Never Buy Without Title Insurance: Right now, there are people who list different properties on the market, yet they don’t even own the property. 
  2. “Check In” on your property (Including Lots!): For a large group of people, their lake home isn’t their main home. Essentially, the home is just sitting there. They realize nobody is there, especially with lots, and then somebody will try and list it.
  3. Verbally Confirm All Payment Instructions: Always plan to do this, especially if you are issuing the money. All real estate types are big targets for email hacking and phone calls. These hackers are reaching out in ways where they suggest payment should be sent to another place.
  4. Do Your Due Diligence: You need to make sure you know everything about the property. From the survey to the condition, make sure people aren’t taking advantage of you.
  5. Be Wary of Haste: If someone is hurrying you in a way that doesn’t seem genuine or feels right, double-check everything. If haste prevents you from verifying things, that is a sign.
  6. Confirm Funds Have Cleared: Make sure your funds, especially with earnest money, are clearing. Your real estate agent can usually provide help with this to ensure everything goes accordingly.

Don’t let the fear of scams hinder your real estate endeavors. Yes, real estate is more likely targeted due to the higher amount of funds, but there are precautions to be taken. Protecting your money and protecting yourself are the two things to remember when it comes to avoiding real estate scams.