Tag: lake home

The Hidden Costs of Keeping A Lake Home: Tips for First-time Buyers

Posted on Staff
Lake house cabin waterfront lakefront home

Before purchasing your dream house, you may have looked into the hidden costs of buying a lake home.

Now that you’re moved in, you might be wondering what it’s going to cost to keep the place in tip-top shape.

You will run into several smaller, and occasionally larger, costs when maintaining your lake home. These add up, and the bottom line can catch many first-time homebuyers by surprise.

Here are some of the most common hidden costs of keeping a lake home.

Home Repairs

Lake homes are often located on gorgeous plots of land, with stunning views of the water and the natural surroundings.

Because of this, lake homes often absorb far more damage from the elements. The wind and rain, the lake itself, even the trees around your property can contribute to these hidden costs.

On average, lake homes require more frequent repairs and maintenance. Common repairs and their causes:

  • Damage due to wind and storms
  • Roof or structural damage due to falling tree limbs
  • Foundation issues due to fluctuating water tables
  • Siding replacement due to wind damage
  • Mildew due to high moisture content in the air
  • Damage due to wildfires (most common in western states)
  • Flood damage

The Great Outdoors

Photo courtesy of Walton Architecture & Engineering.

Remember that you are responsible for the entire property you own, not just the house itself! Lawn upkeep, landscaping, tree trimming, and other costs can be a hefty responsibility.

For homes with forests or large trees nearby, tree trimming is a must.

Limbs overhanging your property or power lines could do serious damage. Spending a few hundred dollars to have a professional remove any overhanging limbs can save you tens of thousands of dollars in damage.

Don’t forget the shoreline.

If you own a waterfront property, you may be responsible for the seawall. This structure protects your property line from erosion. Repair estimates vary, but installation can cost more than $100 per linear foot.

If this is not your primary residence, you will need to hire someone to mow the lawn regularly. Your neighbors won’t appreciate having an overgrown field next door!

Many lake properties are also located on hills or steep inclines, too. Don’t assume that your push mower will always do the job.

Home Improvements

Once you have bought your lake home, chances are you want to customize it. Plans to improve the property are often made before it’s even been selected.

If you have your heart set on any of these improvements in the first few years, be sure to calculate that into your long-term budget.

Many first-time lake home buyers neglect to include these in their budget when shopping for a lake home, even if they fully intend to install them.

  • Deck
  • Hot tub
  • Barbecue grill
  • Swimming pool
  • Garden
  • Guesthouse
  • Firepit
  • Energy-efficient windows/lighting

Be sure that any improvements are permitted by local laws and regulations, too. Many lakes require special construction permits. Also, be sure to look into how to find the right contractor for the job, if you won’t be the one completing the projects.

Docks

Photo courtesy of Shiflet Group Architects.

The average wooden boat dock lasts roughly 20-25 years.

Repairs may only cost a few hundred dollars, but replacement can cost several thousand. Factors such as climate, size, and water depth factor into this cost.

If you plan on owning your lake home long-term and have a dock, chances are it will need to be replaced eventually.

This process will accelerate if your lake freezes over in the winter, too. Freezing and thawing over several years will inevitably deteriorate any material.

Two of Everything

For people who have a lake home as their secondary residence, there is what we like to call the “two of everything” cost. For everything you keep at home, you will need at least one more set for your lake home.

Buyers rarely budget for this, but it adds up incredibly fast. Don’t fall into the trap of assuming that you’ll just ferry everything from your primary residence to the lake home every time, either.

  • Furniture
  • Appliances
  • Cookware and dinnerware
  • Sheets, linens, and towels
  • Decorations
  • Tools
  • Toiletries
  • Cleaning supplies
  • Children’s toys

This is also true for utilities.

Remember, owning a second home means having two power bills, two telephone bills, two water bills, etc.  These can often rival a car (or mortgage) payment if you aren’t careful! Be sure to budget for this.

Many experts highly recommend a security system for any secondary residence. Houses that are not lived in full-time are especially vulnerable to break-ins.

Even if you visit every weekend, having a security system in place can give you great peace of mind.

Having a security system can give you real peace of mind, if you go weeks, or even months, without visiting your lake home.

Guests

Guests can be the most noticeable, if not the biggest, cost of owning a lake home! This can include your extended family, your neighbors, friends, coworkers… anyone you invite over to enjoy your beautiful new lake home!

Lake homes can serve as the perfect getaway for you and your loved ones.

The hidden costs of playing host can add up quickly, though. Especially for a large lake house.

For large gatherings, don’t be afraid to ask guests to chip in food, beverages or other supplies. This can help offset what would otherwise be a huge cost.

It is difficult to estimate many of these costs in advance. Still, if you spend a little time on them, they can give you a much better idea of your budget.

You will be much better prepared to not just buy your lake home, but to enjoy it for years to come.

For more advice on purchasing a lake home, read “Hidden Costs of Buying A Lake Home: Tips for First-time Buyers“.

Hidden Costs of Buying A Lake Home: Tips for First-time Buyers

Posted on Staff
Chalk drawing of a house with a key in the doorway next to a fanned out stack of $100 bills the hidden costs of buying a lake home

It’s no secret that lake property typically costs more. If you are shopping for your first lake home, chances are you’re extremely aware of this! What many first-time buyers don’t know is that there are several hidden costs of buying a lake home that may lie just beneath the surface.

While you are busy falling in love with that gorgeous lake home of your dreams, keep the following factors in mind. Your budget will thank you!

Leased Lots

Even with a traditional mortgage, buying a lake home may involve leasing the land itself.

This is most common on waterfront property. The power company, the local municipality, or even the federal government may own the lake itself – and that often includes the shoreline.

When you purchase a home on a “leased lot,” you enter into a long-term lease with the owner.

These are not complicated, but it can be a significant expense. Leases typically run between $200 and $500 a month, depending on the area. Depending on the area, your lease could last anywhere from 20 to 100 years!

When on the waterfront, ask always find out who owns the shoreline. This can be a huge factor in your budget.

Property Taxes

Lake property is subject to higher property taxes as well, and if your lake home is going to be a second home, that can make tax season incredibly complicated.

These hidden costs of buying a lake home often don’t pop up until you’ve already been in the home for months.

Many lake homeowners have their primary residence in different counties or even states. Research the local laws and tax rates for your lake home. Don’t be afraid to consult with an accountant!

If you rent out your lake home, you may also be subject to income tax.

Insurance

Person holding clipboard with insurance contract

Homeowner’s insurance is usually higher for lake homes due to their increased exposure to the elements. Having good coverage is a wise choice to begin with. Unfortunately, that choice might already be made for you.

Local laws and insurance companies often mandate a higher level of insurance coverage for lake homes, including flood insurance.

Remember that you need to get coverage for any additional structures on the property, such as your dock, guest house, or sea wall. Your homeowner’s insurance policy may not cover them automatically.

Flood insurance should always be seriously considered for lake property. After the floodwaters recede, this protection can mean the difference between a serious hassle and a financial disaster.

HVAC and Septic Systems

According to Wally Cawthon, a Lake Homes Realty agent on Jackson Lake, Georgia, “The two biggest unexpected and preventable expenses for first-time lake home buyers are repairs to HVAC systems and septic systems. If buyers take proper inspection measures, they can avoid these in almost every case.”

Many lake homes, especially in rural areas, use a septic system.

These need to inspected regularly to ensure that they don’t pollute the local water table, or the lake itself.

Never purchase a lake home with a septic system before having it professionally inspected.

This typically costs $200 to $500, and is money well spent. Replacing a seriously damaged septic system can easily cost up to $7,000.

HVAC systems should also be thoroughly inspected before buying.

A home that looks picture-perfect when the weather is mild can still house an HVAC system long past its prime.

Buy without having it inspected, and you may be in for a rude surprise (and an even more rude repair bill) when you take ownership.

Outdated HVAC systems can also churn through electricity, especially in the chilly winter months.

Boat Docks

Lake house floating boat deck
Photo courtesy of Custom Dock Systems.

Building a dock on your property is no small project. According to homeadvisor.com, the average homeowner spends $3,396 in dock construction.

Depending on the specifications, a high-quality, permanent dock can cost more than $50,000. Factors such as size, water depth, climate, and other factors all contribute to this cost.

If part of your dream home involves building a dock, get a professional estimate on dock construction, then factor that cost into your budget for the new home.

On the other hand, you may have your eye on property that already has a dock.

If so, ask the selling agent if they know how old it is. Most wooden docks last 20 to 25 years. Purchasing one that is due to be replaced can be a serious hit to your wallet!

Know how your homeowner’s insurance policy covers your dock. Many policies cover the structure from incidental damage, but not damage due to flooding, freezing, or thawing.

Utilities

Many lakes are situated in pristine, secluded, rural areas. This means that power, water, cable, and other utilities often come at a premium.

Lake homes need a dedicated “land line” for the telephone. Between the rural locations and limited cellular service providers, you never want to rely entirely on a cell phone.

This may seem like a trivial concern. Lake homeowners can attest, though, that these hidden costs of buying a lake home add up quickly.

You will find this doubly true if your lake house is a second home. This is why many lake homeowners “winterize” their homes in the winter months, cutting off the power, gas, and water when it isn’t in use.

Homeowner’s Associations

Person signing homeowner association contract the hidden costs of buying a lake home

Last but not least, many lake homes are part of a homeowner’s association.

These associations often serve the same role as small-town municipalities around the lake itself. They maintain the lake, set local regulations, and preserve the natural beauty of the area.

Homeowner’s association dues usually make up a small, but mandatory, annual cost.

It’s a good idea to acquaint yourself with the association before purchasing the home. This can give you an inside look at the local culture, including your future neighbors!

Do the Research

These are the most common costs to take into consideration. When researching a lake home, factor these into your budget early on.

Curious about the hidden costs that come after the purchase of a lake home? Read our article, “The Hidden Costs of Keeping A Lake Home: Tips for First-time Buyers“, or find more advice and tips on lake living here.

Grilling Out this Memorial Day

Posted on Staff

hamburgers cooking on a grill in front of American FlagThis weekend, Americans across the country will celebrate Memorial Day, to honor those who died while serving in the nation’s armed forces.

What better place to celebrate life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness than on the lake, surrounded by our loved ones and this country’s natural beauty?

If you are hosting a Memorial Day barbecue on the lake, here is a checklist to help you get started with your preparations.

Clean up Your Act!

Spring is the perfect time to give your grill a good scrub-down. This is true even if you haven’t used the grill since last fall. Give it a good cleaning to remove dirt, dust, grime and other things you don’t want on that first burger of the season.

If you can remove the grill grates, soak them in a bucket, or plastic tub, of hot water and dish soap, then give them a good scrub.

Rinse thoroughly with a garden hose before putting them back in.

Scrub the grill hood and inside walls to remove any build-up. If your grill uses propane or natural gas, make sure all the jet ports are clean and free of gunk or debris.

Give me fuel, give me fire…

Take a careful look at that half-empty bag of charcoal in the garage.

Will it REALLY be enough? If you can’t say for sure, better safe than sorry.

Grab a fresh bag of charcoal and make sure there’s plenty to go around. Unless you use self-lighting charcoal, make sure you have lighter fluid, too.

If you use a propane tank, make sure there is enough propane. If you don’t have a gauge attached, here’s an easy trick to find out how much propane is left in your tank.

Still shopping for your grill this season? Click here for tips on finding the grill of your dreams.

Serving Guides

Keep these serving guidelines in mind when you’re planning the menu.

  • For boneless meat, such as hamburgers, most experts recommend between 1/3 and ½ pound of meat per adult.
  • For meat with bones, such as ribs or chicken wings, plan for somewhere between 12 and 16 ounces per person.
    • This breaks down to approximately four to six ribs, depending on the type, and 10 wings.
  • Side dishes vary, depending on how filling they are. For most dishes, experts recommend four to six ounces per person.
  • With a side salad, go for one big handful per person.
  • When in doubt, round up. It’s far better to have leftovers than to run to the store in the middle of your barbecue because you ran out of  something!

Get a Solid Head Count

While this seems like a no-brainer, it goes hand in hand with making sure you have enough food.

If you’re just feeding your immediate family, this isn’t a problem. On the other hand, if you invited all your friends, family and coworkers, you might have more guests than you can handle!

It may seem like overkill, but treating your barbecue like an invitation-only event can save your it.

Don’t be afraid to divvy up the side dish duties, either.

Most guests are happy to bring a dish. If you insist on buying everything, even a modest back yard barbecue can easily run upwards of $300.

Make sure you have plenty of parking for your event, too.

If you can, tell people where to park in your invitation. That way you won’t see their tire tracks in your front lawn through the month of June.

Get the Tools for the Job!

From a first-timer to a veteran grillmaster, everyone needs the tools for the job. Make sure you have each of these before you get started.

  • Basic tools: Metal spatula, metal tongs, basting brush, barbecue fork, butcher knife, barbecue scrub brush
  • Advanced tools: meat thermometer, gloves, bottle opener, meat tenderizer, meat shredder
  • Specialty tools: Shish kabob skewers, corn on the cob skewers, squirt bottle
  • Other equipment: Paper plates, disposable cups and silverware, outdoor garbage can, paper towels, tin foil, serving utensils, cooler

Turn up the Music (to a reasonable level)

Having some patriotic jams can make you the life of the party this Memorial Day.

If you don’t fancy yourself a DJ, online music services like Sirius, I Heart Radio, Spotify, and Pandora typically have all-American stations and playlists for Memorial Day.

When outdoors, remember to keep the volume down to a reasonable level as sound can carry great distances across the lake.

Just because you love rocking out to Lynyrd Skynyrd doesn’t mean the rest of the neighborhood wants to (even if they should.)

Have a “Worst Case Scenario” Plan for the Weather

No matter how much we plan, Mother Nature doesn’t always cooperate with our outdoor party schedule. Have a contingency plan in case it gets rainy, or worse.

If the sky opens up, don’t panic!

Most grilled dishes can be cooked inside, on your stove or in the oven. Make sure you have adequate seating for everyone, and put a movie on.

A little rain is no reason to cancel your celebration!

Remember the Reason for the Season

Memorial Day is a day of remembrance for all those who gave the ultimate sacrifice in the service of the United States.

Don’t forget to honor them during your event. Be sure to thank any veterans or members of the military for their service to our country.

 

Lake Homes: More Than Just Waterfront

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When you hear “lake home,” those words can conjure various images. Contrary to popular belief, not all lake homes are waterfront homes.

As a matter of fact, many people who own lake houses aren’t even close to the waterfront! Because of this, many lake homes are more affordable than you might think.

There are three major types of lake property: lakefront, lake access, and lake community. Each has its pros and cons, both functionally and financially.

looking out at the lake through window

Waterfront Property

Lakefront, also known as “waterfront,” property extends to the shore of the lake itself.

It offers the most prestige, the most access, and a direct line to the lake right out your door.

Lakefront property can be incredibly beautiful, and there’s nothing like looking out your back patio directly onto the calm waters of the lake in the evening.

Naturally, such prestige comes with a high price tag. Waterfront property is significantly more expensive than similar property, even a block away from the water.

It also brings with it many more responsibilities.

Waterfront property is the most vulnerable to flooding, erosion, and inclement weather. There are often special insurance requirements, and upkeep can be a significant commitment of time and money.

If you plan to build or improve on waterfront property, make sure your plans fit with the local regulations. Many lakes have restrictions on docks, signage, and landscaping.

Since there is a limited amount of shoreline on each lake, property on the water’s edge often appreciates the fastest.

Waterfront is also very attractive to vacationers. This can pay dividends if you intend to rent it out.

Waterfront property is perfect for those who have their heart set on the water’s edge and have the time and money to maintain it.

Lake View Property

“Lake view” property, also known as “lake access,” is near the water but does not extend to the lake itself.

This property can be a literal stone’s throw away from the water and is often just as picturesque as the lakefront.

Prices vary from lake to lake, but lake view property is typically much less expensive than lakefront.

Lake view property isn’t as scarce, doesn’t have the same water access, and doesn’t have the convenience or prestige of being directly on the waterfront.

At the same time, a lake view can give many of the benefits of a waterfront at a fraction of the cost or the headaches.

Owners still typically have easy access to the lake without needing to maintain their own stretch of shoreline. Weatherproofing and maintenance costs aren’t as significant, either.

Most lake communities have options for those who live on the lake to enjoy its benefits. Marinas can store boats until you need it, and there are usually access points for swimming, fishing and water sports.

If you want a property close to the water’s edge but have a limited budget, a lake view property may be for you.

Lake Community

Most lakes have neighborhoods arrayed about them. Many of these homes aren’t within clear view of the water’s edge but are still very much part of the lake community.

Homes situated in a lake community a short distance from the water can cost a fraction of waterfront property.

Nicole Anderson Walters, a Lake Homes Realty agent specializing in real estate on Logan Martin Lake, Alabama, offered, “you can save money by being in a lake view or lake access neighborhood. Many have water views and community areas with boat launch.”

“Where a home may cost you $89 per square foot off the water, the same home could cost upwards of $168-$200+ per square foot directly on the water,” she added. “You can often find a much nicer home off the water with amenities in the neighborhood.”

Depending on the size of the lake, these neighborhoods can range from high-end gated communities to condos and cabins to retirement communities and everyday suburbs.

These lake communities are often a short drive to a short walk or drive to the lake itself but still have easy access to fishing, swimming, boating, and other lake activities.

As an added benefit, most avoid many of the upkeep costs and restrictions associated with lakefront property.

Many communities are also situated near state parks, landmarks, shopping centers, and other attractions. If these appeal to you more than living near the water, look for lake communities within a short distance of the lake.

Find what works for you!

Every lake is different.

In addition to those listed here, market prices can vary greatly between lakes. If you can’t find the kind of property you are looking for at one lake, look for others nearby.

You may find a hidden gem right under your nose!

Spring Cleaning at Your Lake Home

Posted on Staff

small dog on porch sitting with cleaning suppliesAs the weather warms up, homeowners everywhere are throwing open the front doors, opening the windows, and pulling on the gloves for a little spring cleaning.

Here are some tips to help you tackle that task!

Kitchens and Bathrooms

Before vacuuming, replace your vacuum cleaner bag.

Clean the dust cup, and replace or wash the filters if you can.

Snip any threads or hair snarled in the roller brush with scissors or a seam ripper.

Clean out the fridge! Spring is the perfect time to get rid of any forgotten leftovers.

Check the expiration dates on any sauces or frozen goods, as well.

For a more thorough clean, remove all the food items and wipe down all the surfaces in the fridge with a cleaning solution.

Spills, crumbs and stains will all linger indefinitely if you don’t get them out.

You can also load up the dishwasher to handle things other than dishes – light fixture globes, plastic toys, toothbrush holders, soap dishes, oven control knobs and more.

Just use the gentle cycle – and skip the heated drying!

Here’s a tip to clean the gunk out of your microwave:

Put a large, microwave-safe bowl with one cup of water and a chopped-up lemon, lime, or orange, or several tablespoons of vinegar inside.

Run it on high for several minutes, or until the mixture boils. Then let it sit for 15 minutes before wiping down all interior surfaces with a sponge.

Dust, wash and scrub

If your drapes are looking drab and dusty, remove the hooks and run them through the air fluff cycle in your dryer along with a wet hand towel for 15 minutes. This draws off the dust.

Hang them up immediately. For heavier curtains, vacuuming them with the wand from your vacuum cleaner can also work.

Banish the dust bunnies clinging to your ceiling fan blades by wiping the blades down with a coat of furniture polish.

Wipe off the excess and lightly buff them dry.

Canvas grocery bags are great alternatives to plastic, but they need cleaning like any other fabric. Run them through the washing machine to remove any lingering food bacteria.

Make sure you pay attention to the material if and when you put them in the dryer – many reusable grocery bags are a plastic composite, and could melt under high heat!

Change out your HVAC filters. Vacation homes or single occupant homes should have their air filters changed once a year.

If you live there, it should be changed every 90 days, and every 60 days if you have a pet. Your sinuses will thank you!

Spring is the perfect time to steam clean your rugs and carpets.

If a steam cleaner is unavailable, chances are your grocery store has a range of carpet cleaners. These will take care of those lingering cranberry sauce stains from last Thanksgiving.

Count it all up!

If your lake home is a vacation home, and you’ve had guests, this is the perfect time to make sure you are well stocked for the warmer months.

Inventory and wash your towels, bedsheets and other linens. Check to make sure your bathrooms are well-stocked with toiletries and other necessary items, as well.

Round up all your cookware, drinkware and silverware. Many guests leave these items behind until your cabinets are overflowing!

Contact the owners of any extras, if you know who they are. If not, you can always donate that fourth casserole dish or fifth corkscrew to the local thrift store.

Cleaning Outdoors

Wash your windows on a cloudy day. Direct sunlight can dry the cleaner before you wipe it off, leaving streaks.

Clean your barbecue grill to get ready for the cooking season.

Give the grill itself a good scrubbing with a cleaning brush and grill cleaner. If the undersides are greasy, make sure to wipe them off with a wet, soapy sponge first!

For gas grills, scrub and clean out the burners, making sure to unclog any ports. Be sure to scrub the walls of the cook box, as well.

If you have access to a pressure washer, spring is an excellent time to give any cement, stone or brick walkways a thorough cleaning.

Your exterior will not only look brighter, it will be safer and less slippery when the kids are scampering up from their dip in the lake.

Maintaining clean gutters is crucial to your home’s exterior. Clogged gutters are not only an eyesore, they can cause the fascia board underneath to rot.

Hardware stores now carry a wide selection of gutter cleaning tools to make this process much easier than it was in years past!

Many have telescoping poles that hook up to your water hose and spray down into the gutter, so you never have to leave the safety of the stable ground.

Spring cleaning is also a great time to replace any welcome mats that look worn out. These are the first thing many people see when they arrive at your home, especially if you rent it out.

If you winterized your home by turning the water off, carefully check your water pipes for leaks upon turning it back on. Remember to let your water heater fill completely before turning on the heat. Run all faucets and flush all toilets several times.

Check the Outdoor Equipment

Dig out and test any water equipment (kayaks, life preservers, inflatable rafts) for mold or leaks well before you plan to use them!

Pull them out of storage and make sure they are in good working order. Wipe them down with an appropriate cleaner, if need be.

Setting them out in the sun for a day will also help rid them of any musty smells.

If there are trees on your property, check to see that there aren’t any broken or damaged limbs hanging down.

Contact a professional to have them removed, if necessary.

When all is said and done, pull up a chair, and enjoy a well-deserved drink. You earned it!

 

And while you’re at it, take a look at these “7 DIY Natural Cleaning Solutions for Your Home”

 

Five Questions to Ask Before Choosing a Lake Home

Posted on Staff
five questions to ask before choosing a lake home

If you are shopping for your first lake home, there are several factors to consider. Between lake geography, utilities, property restrictions and hidden costs, buying lake property can be full of unexpected surprises. Be sure to ask these five questions before choosing a lake home.

1. What are you looking for in a lake home?

This is the simplest, most important and toughest question!

Lake homes can come in a surprising range of prices, conditions and access to amenities, even on the same lake.

Will this be your primary home, or a second home? Are you looking for an existing home, or a lot to build your dream house on?

man holding glass on wine next to door on lake beach - lake front access

What is most important to you – the view, the activities, boating or fishing, the local community, having fun with the grandkids or just getting away from it all?

Thinking about these things will help you find just the right kind of lake home, and narrow down the wide array of choices you have available.

For example, if this will just be a summer home, a large waterfront property that needs weekly upkeep may not be the best choice.

On the other hand, if you want a house big enough for the extended family to visit, a larger home a short distance from the water might be the best fit for your budget.

2. What kind of water access do you need?

When it comes to lake homes, there are three general kinds of water access: lakefront (also known as waterfront), lake access, and lake community.

Lakefront property goes right up to the water line, or within a few yards of it. This is the most expensive option, but also lets you enjoy the lake directly.

You have instant access to boating, swimming, fishing and other activities.

boat dock during sunset

“Lake access” is property that is close to the water, but not on the lakefront itself.

These properties often have a clear view of the lake and are a short walk to the water. These are often significantly less expensive than waterfront property.

“Lake community” property is part of the overall lake neighborhood, but without direct access to the water.

These can be anywhere from a few blocks to a mile or two from the lake. Owners still enjoy the lake lifestyle, even if they aren’t directly on the lake.

Homes in lake communities have more limited access, but are often much more affordable.

3. What restrictions does the lake have?

Many lakes have restrictions that you might not know about as a visitor.

They are often regulated by power companies, neighborhood associations, even the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Each lake, has its own regulations.

These entities work to preserve the wildlife, culture and natural beauty of the lake and the surrounding neighborhood. Becoming familiar with them will give you a big head start on finding your ideal lake home.

Some common restrictions address factors such as: boat usage, docking, exterior fixtures (such as gardens and doghouses,) light fixtures, seawall maintenance and leasing or rental agreements.

4. How are the utilities set up?

Knowing about the area’s utilities can save you a world of stress when choosing a lake home.

In rural lake communities, modern conveniences like cell phone service and high-speed internet may be hard to come by.

Water access is something to be mindful of, too. Not lake access, though – the plumbing!

choosing a lake home - bills to watch out for HOA, water, internet, cell phone service

Some lake properties draw water from a well. Find out if the property uses a sewer system or a septic tank, too. Each of these can bring unexpected costs or upkeep.

If you intend to build, see what the cost is to set up utilities for the property – specif.

You want to know this before you purchase it, not after!

5. What conveniences are nearby?

Many who are choosing a lake home often just look at the property itself. Don’t make this mistake!

Marinas, golf courses, country clubs and campgrounds are all important parts of the lake lifestyle.

choosing a lake home - waterfront community

Take the time to learn about the off-lake community, too.

Nearby hospitals, restaurants, police departments, shops and grocery stores are all things to take into account, too.

Many lake communities have local websites where you can learn more about the area. These are often hidden gems, and from them you can learn a great deal.

Getting to know the local culture can turn a property from, “let’s think about it,” to, “this is the one!”

Home Gutter Maintenance

Posted on Staff

Cleaning rain gutters is not normally at the top of a homeowner’s to do list, but it should be.

Gutters clogged with leaves and other debris can overfill and crack. When damage like this is sustained, rain water spills in undesirable places causing unforeseen damage.

A single leak in the gutters can result in foundation cracking, mold and mildew growth, flooding in basements and crawl spaces, soil erosion under a home’s foundation and more.

Structural damage to homes can be costly to fix; while, mold and mildew can even increase the risk of respiratory illnesses and home deterioration.

Properly maintained gutters and downspouts are an important part of household maintenance that help to prevent costly renovations.

gutters

Install Some Downspout Extensions and Schedule Regular Maintenance

The first step in protecting your home from water damage is to schedule regular maintenance on gutters, downspouts and extensions.

At least twice a year, all areas need to be checked for clogs, leaks, holes, rust and any fungal growth. Any of the aforementioned issues in your gutter system need to be fixed as soon as they are discovered.

If your home does not already have them, installing downspout extensions will allow you to redirect rain water away from your home, landscaping and areas prone to erosion.

Water can be redirected up to 50 feet away from your property.

Think About Installing Gutter Guards

One way to cut down on clogs inside your gutters is to install gutter guards. These guards can be mesh, grated metal or thin metal sheets.

Installed over the open tops of the gutters, they keep leaves and other debris from clogging up the drainage system.

If you install gutter guards be sure they are easy to remove for occasional, but necessary, cleaning.

Seal All Leaks Using Gutter Seal

If a portion of the gutter is leaking, it is not necessary to replace the entire system. There are products available to seal such leaks and help to avoid potentially expensive repairs.

Products used for this purpose can be found at most hardware stores.

Take note that it will be necessary to completely clean the gutter system and allow it to dry prior to applying the product. Most include strips of plastic and adhesive to repair torn areas.

Inspect and Re-position the Splash Blocks Frequently

Splash blocks are plastic, ceramic or concrete ramps that are seen in many yards under the downspouts.

Occasionally these are pushed out of position by the water coming down from the gutters. When this happens, rain water could potentially flow under the foundation and into crawl spaces of your home.

Heavier splash guards are more stable. Decorative blocks are also available for homes. Click here to search your favorite on Amazon.

Gutter Cleaning Reminders

Always remember to keep on top of your gutter maintenance to protect your home from damage by setting quarterly reminders.

If you do not have the capability to do the maintenance yourself, there are professionals that you can hire to do the maintenance for you.

Communications / Marketing Internship Available

Posted on Staff

CEO Glenn Phillips at Lake Homes Fall Summit 2015Job Description 

Lake Homes Realty is a start-up multi-national real estate brokerage that focuses specifically on lake properties. Lake Homes is currently the largest lake-focused real estate brokerage in the U.S. and is expanding to new lakes almost daily!

Interns would be working in the marketing/communications department and would work on writing website/blog content, conducting data research, assisting with social media and would help with SEO/SEM strategy.

The position would work about 20-30 hours a week. 

“If you have strong writing skills, good critical thinking skills, meet deadlines and are interested in learning a new industry, then this is the perfect summer internship for you! It has been a great opportunity to hone my writing abilities, learn new skills and network within the professional Birmingham community. I highly recommend!” – Sarah Korta, current intern

If interested, contact the Director of Marketing and Engagement, Brian Cauble (bcauble@lakehomes.com) and attach your resume and cover letter. 

Protect Your Dog at the Lake Home with an Invisible Fence

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invisible fenceInstalling an invisible fence for your dog at your lake home is important.

It would be quite the shame if your loving, family pet ran away because you didn’t have a fence installed.

An even though most dogs are good swimmers, it will also give you peace of mind that Fido won’t take a plunge without your supervision!

In addition to these benefits, invisible fences are really easy to install.

All you have to do is line up the receivers with the area of the lake house where you don’t want your pet wandering, and it will emit a harmless shock to the dog’s collar.

Invisible Fences and How They Work

Installing an invisible fence has never been easier with electronic fences. And electronic pet containment is a dog-training system that uses a small charge to keep your dog in the yard.It uses a transmitter plug, the plug then emits a signal that travels along underground wires. And a hidden boundary is established between the dog and the fence.

Depending on the brand, the dog may receive a warning sound on the collar when the dog wanders near the boundary.

If the dog doesn’t listen, the collar will respond with a minor shock.

The shock is completely harmless but just uncomfortable enough to make your pet learn the new customized invisible boundaries—and then your dog can remain safe within your property.

An invisible fence is your answer to keeping your dog safe while at the lake home.

Why an Invisible Fence at Your Lake Home is Important

Having an invisible fence at your lake home is important because you don’t want your dog wandering off, especially, in terrain is potentially unsafe. And an invisible fence will teach your pet, exactly where it’s safe to wander.

The invisible fence installation will help keep your dog in the yard, giving you the confidence of knowing you can leave your pup out to play—without the worry of him disappearing.

What a great technique for teaching your dog the boundaries at your lake home?

Beware of Dog - invisible fenceHow Invisible Fences Help Keep Out Intruders

Invisible fences come with signs that you can hang on a wooden pole, letting passersby know that there is an invisible fence.

This can keep intruders out because they will assume that you have a dog, and the dog will be loose around the your lake home if they attempt to break in.

An invisible fence is a great way to keep intruders out of your lake home, not because of the fence itself, but because your dog is free to roam around the home and protect it.

In Summary

If you have an invisible fence then you can be confident in knowing that your dog will never disappear, will be safe from the lake, and can even help defend your home from intruders if trained properly!