Tag: lake life

Fireworks Fare: Level Up Your 4th of July picnic with flavorful bites

Posted on Jeanne Delathouder

Estimated reading time: 7 minutes

picnic spread for the 4th of July on a dock on the lake with boat in background
Photo Courtesy of White Arrows Home

While grilled burgers and store-bought chips have long held a place at 4th of July lake gatherings, today’s lake homeowners are curating more intentional and elevated holiday spreads. Whether you’re entertaining guests dockside, picnicking under the trees, or launching fireworks from a pontoon, the right appetizers can anchor your 4th of July celebration. They add regional flavor, conversation-starting presentations, and inventive twists on familiar ingredients.

Especially across varied lake regions—from the breezy Pacific Northwest to the sunny Gulf Coast—seasonal produce and local specialties offer opportunities to impress on the 4th of July. You can do this without overcomplicating your prep. The following snack and appetizer recipes go beyond the standard fare. They blend regional flair with crowd-pleasing appeal. Each dish speaks to a specific region of the country. They cover a broad spectrum of tastes, including vegetarian, seafood, meat, poultry, sweet, dip-focused, and kid-friendly bites.

Grilled Peach-and-Burrata Crostini 

Grilled Peach-and-Burrata Crostini  served on platter with pesto and a grilled peach half and fresh basil in background
Photo courtesy of Recipe Runner

Southeastern lake regions, including Georgia’s Lake Oconee and North Carolina’s Lake Norman, are known for their sweet, juicy peaches in early July. Grilled peach-and-burrata crostini is a refined yet simple vegetarian option that makes the most of this seasonal bounty. Thick-sliced peaches are lightly grilled to bring out their sugars. They are then layered over creamy burrata on toasted baguette slices. A drizzle of local honey, a sprinkle of flaky salt, and a few torn basil leaves add complexity and freshness to the dish. This interpretation incorporates pesto and balsamic glaze for a flavorful balance. Serve these on a wooden board for a rustic, lake-house aesthetic. This is perfect for warm Fourth of July twilight gatherings. Visit Recipe Runner for this juicy recipe.

Maryland Blue Crab and Corn Fritters with Chipotle Aioli

Maryland Blue Crab and Corn Fritters with Chipotle Aioli served on white platter with dollops of Chipotle Aioli and green onion garnish
Photo courtesy of Urban Cookery

For lake homes around Deep Creek Lake in Maryland or Lake Wallenpaupack in Pennsylvania, blue crab reigns supreme in the summer. Combine sweet lump crabmeat with fresh corn, minced onions, and your preferred seasoning (such as Old Bay) in crisp fritters. Serve them with a lemon or spicy aioli. These bite-sized snacks seamlessly blend coastal influences with an easy-going inland style. They can be pan-fried or cooked in an air fryer for a lighter version. The balance of crunch, sweetness, and spice is perfect for lakeside cocktail hours. You can make them ahead and warm them on a grill pan. Visit Urban Cookery for their interpretation of this recipe.

Sweet Heat Chicken Skewers with Peach Glaze

Sweet Heat Chicken Skewers with Peach Glaze in a roasting pan woth a side of peach glaze in the pan served on rustic wooden table with jalapeno, peach, onion garnishes on the side.
Photo courtesy of I Am Homesteader

The Upper East lake regions—think Lake George in New York or Lake Winnipesaukee in New Hampshire—favor traditional fare with a hint of contemporary kick. These chicken skewers are marinated in a blend of salt, pepper, chili powder, and olive oil, then grilled and brushed with a peach preserves glaze. The result is a perfect interplay of sweet and spicy. Serve them with lime wedges skewered with red, white, and blue cocktail sticks for a festive presentation if desired. They also reheat well over a campfire grill for late-night snacking. Check out this home cook’s rendition at
I Am Homesteader.

Spicy Andouille Sausage Bites with Creole Mustard

Spicy Andouille Sausage Bites with Creole Mustard served on a platter with serving skewers
Photo Courtesy of Plating’s + Pairings

In Gulf Coast and Texas lake communities, such as Lake Travis or Lake Martin, bold flavor profiles are a given. Smoked Andouille sausage, sliced thick and seared on a hot grill pan, pairs perfectly with a house-made Creole mustard dip—made by mixing whole grain mustard, a dash of Tabasco, and a touch of mayonnaise. Serve these sausage rounds on small toothpicks or skewers with pickled okra or jalapeño coins for a distinctly Southern flair. They’re hearty enough for meat lovers and hold up well in warm, humid conditions typical of July in this region. For an elevated yet quick recipe incorporating dry white wine, visit Platings + Pairings.

Charred Poblano Corn Dip

Charred Poblano Corn Dip in iron skillet with limes and herbs in background
Photo courtesy of Taste and See

At lakefront homes in California—like Lake Tahoe or Big Bear Lake—guests appreciate dips that are bold, fresh, and layered. This charred poblano corn dip hits all the marks: smoky poblano peppers, grilled corn kernels, cream cheese, sour cream, lime juice. Some recipes also incorporate Monterey Jack, so feel free to create your own signature dish. It’s typically finished with chopped cilantro and served warm in a cast-iron skillet alongside corn tortilla chips or jicama slices for dipping. California’s abundant produce and preference for bright flavors shine here, making it a standout dip. It pairs well with crisp white wine or agave cocktails, especially on the 4th of July. For this classic recipe, visit Taste and See.

Fresh Berry Shortcake Cups

Fresh Berry Shortcake Cups serviced in mason jars in layers of red, white, and blue and a flag toothpick garnish
Photo courtesy of Carson Farmers Market

Lakes in the Pacific Northwest—like Lake Chelan in Washington or Oregon’s Crater Lake—are surrounded by berry farms that hit peak season around the 4th of July. Mini berry shortcake cups offer a make-ahead dessert that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Use mason jars or compostable cups to layer fresh strawberries, blackberries, and blueberries with whipped cream and buttery shortcake cubes. A splash of lemon zest or elderflower syrup elevates the flavor. Chill these in a cooler or fridge until dessert time for a refreshing end to the meal. Visit Carson Farmers Market for a scrumptious multi-layered recipe using fresh yellow butter cake, whipped cream, and no-bake cheesecake. Berry types are not specified here, so use what’s available in your region to create a red, white, and blue theme celebrating the 4th of July.

Mini Corn Dog Muffins

Mini Corn Dog Muffins with one dipped in a metal ramekin of ketchup
Photo courtesy of Damn Delicious

For kids (and adults with a nostalgic streak), mini corn dog muffins are a playful, mess-free option. Made by combining cornbread batter with chopped hot dogs or mini sausages, these bake up in mini muffin tins and travel well from kitchen to dock. Serve with squeeze bottles of ketchup and mustard for easy dipping. They’re especially popular with families celebrating the 4th of July across U.S. lake regions. They can be tailored with locally made sausages or even a vegetarian version using plant-based hot dogs. These snacks are easy to prepare in bulk and disappear quickly once served.

Whether you’re entertaining at a lakeside lodge in the Northeast or a breezy dock house in the Pacific Northwest, your 4th of July menu can reflect both your region and your creativity. These snack and appetizer ideas offer a polished yet approachable blend of textures, temperatures, and flavor profiles that sets them apart from typical holiday fare. Better yet, each recipe is designed to travel well and hold up outdoors. With just a bit of planning, your holiday spread can taste as memorable as the fireworks lighting up your lake. For more lake-inspired recipes, visit Lake Homes Lifestyles.

Whiteboard Topics: What Lake Homes Sellers Expect That Rarely Helps

Posted on Zac Parnell

Expectations are a part of everything in life. Real estate is not exempt from having expectations either. When selling your home, you might have certain expectations from your real estate agent in order to get your home sold. Glenn Phillips, Lake Homes Realty’s CEO, discusses the different things a seller might expect that don’t always help.

  1. Open Houses: Typically, when it comes to lake real estate, the buyer is many miles away. They might even be in a completely different state. These buyers will schedule a showing to see that house if they are interested. An open house, on the other hand, typically attracts people who come by to view the house, usually without any intention to buy.
  2. “Just Listed” postcards: Who would you be sending these to? You don’t really need to send them to your neighbors because they already live at the lake. It doesn’t logically make sense to send these across the country, but it makes the seller feel good when sending them out. That doesn’t inherently mean anything will come from it.
  3. “Just Listed” social media: This is related to the “Just Listed” postcards. Not only that, but the algorithms don’t typically like these kinds of posts. If it shows up to an audience, it will more than likely show up on a family or friend’s feed.
  4. “For Sale” signs: Most lake homebuyers start their search online. Going back to the first point, many buyers might not even live in the state you’re in, having a for sale sign doesn’t really help as much as you think.

A lot of the time, an agent will do these things out of habit or to make their sellers happy. However, that doesn’t mean it will sell the home. If you’d like to discuss these topics or anything else with an agent, please contact one today at https://www.lakehomes.com/.

Whiteboard Topics: Overpricing Your Lake Home Is Easy!

Posted on Zac Parnell

What comes to mind when you’re getting ready to sell your home? Pricing! Knowing how to and what to price your lake home is crucial in the selling process. If you go too high, more than likely, it will sit on the market longer than you’d like. Lake Homes Realty’s CEO, Glenn Phillips, delves into the importance of proper pricing and how easy it is to accidentally overprice.

  1. “What I have in it”: This is the concept of what you, as the owner, have financially put into the home. However, buyers do not care about this. The market is the market. When you were the buyer, you didn’t ask the seller what they had put into the home. The same goes for your potential buyers; they don’t care. The market sets the price.
  2. “What I ‘need’…”: At the end of the day, need has nothing to do with it. Need is market-independent and not relevant to any of the buyers.
  3. “I just ‘feel’ it is worth this”: There have been many studies that indicate we value our own possessions a lot more than other people’s possessions. This is something you need to be mindful of. It’s very easy to justify why you think your property is worth a certain amount.
  4. “The neighbor’s house sold for…”: That might be a true statement, or it might be a rumor someone has made up. If it is factual, there are many factors that could have been at play, such as selling when the market was hot. Having an agent who can pull a market analysis is more beneficial than basing pricing on the neighbor’s home.
  5. “The house nearby is listed for…”: “Listed for” is exactly what it sounds like, a listing. That house is still on the market.
  6. “If I can get this much, then I’ll sell”: This means you are not actively trying to sell the home. If something were to come along at a price you like, then you might. Something like this wastes time for all parties.

Having the correct pricing is truly the most important thing if you’re trying to sell. However, as mentioned above, it’s very easy to overprice a lake home. If you’re trying to figure out how to get accurate pricing, reach out to our lake experts at https://www.lakehomes.com/.

Porch Perfect: Elevate Your Curb Appeal with a Front Porch Refresh

Posted on Jeanne Delathouder

Estimated reading time: 6 minutes

Contemporary front porch design with vaulted roof, slatted wood ceiling, natural stained wood doors, planters, greenery, decorative tile stair platform for Oregon lake home
Photo Courtesy of Bend Magazine

A front porch is more than just an entryway—it’s the heart and soul of your beloved lake dwelling. It sets the tone for your home’s personality. Just as it symbolizes home to you and yours, it welcomes guests with warmth and hospitality. Whether you have a cozy cottage or a grand lakefront estate, your porch should complement the architectural style of your home. It should also maximize available space and prioritize safety, particularly for households with children. Materials play a key role in enhancing durability and aesthetic appeal, with options like natural wood, composite decking, stone, and brick all offering distinct advantages depending on your regional climate.

For lake home properties across the U.S., different front porch styles cater to various environmental and aesthetic needs. From simple enhancements like bold lighting fixtures to more substantial upgrades such as screened enclosures or folding front doors, numerous ways can elevate your home’s curb appeal. Here are seven impactful front porch ideas suited to different lake regions for inspiration. These ideas provide functional and aesthetic benefits tailored to specific climates and lifestyles.

Incorporate a Folding Door for Ultimate Flexibility

NanaWall folding door leading to covered front porch of lake property
Photo courtesy of NanaWall

A folding front door can be a game-changer for homeowners in California and the Pacific Northwest lake regions, where mild climates encourage open-air living. Additionally, their flexibility makes them suitable for almost any lake climate. This unique element expands your living space. It creates an airy transition between the interior and exterior, perfect for entertaining or enjoying serene lake views.

Enhance Farmhouse Style with PVC or DIY Column Wraps

farm house style lake home with pvc column wraps on front porch to enhance architectural design; brick paved motorcourt in foreground
Photo courtesy of One Kindesign

Adding PVC or DIY column wraps is an affordable and impactful way to upgrade the look of your front porch. This approach is practical for farm-style homes popular in the Midwest, Upper East, and Mid-Atlantic lake regions. These areas blend classic Americana aesthetics with modern convenience. These wraps provide the look of traditional wood without the maintenance, ensuring long-term durability against seasonal weather fluctuations.

Transition Your Interior Style Outside

Living room style porch with cozy stone fireplace wall with television above, comfy cushioned furniture, fur throw over ottoman, rustic wooden coffee table and lake in backdrop
Photo courtesy of Beach Pretty

Bringing your interior design elements outdoors creates a seamless flow between your home’s indoor and outdoor spaces. Incorporate comfortable seating, side tables, outdoor rugs, pillows, and performance fabrics that resist moisture and fading. This idea works well in the Southeast and Texas Gulf lake regions, where extended warm seasons allow for outdoor living nearly year-round.

Add Bold, Eye-Catching Lighting Fixtures

Outdoor lantern-style sconces for your home's front porch exterior. potted plants flank front door and white pavers provide stepping stones over the green grass.
Photo Courtesy of Lowes

Statement lighting fixtures can instantly boost your home’s curb appeal while providing necessary illumination for safety and ambiance. Oversized lanterns, industrial-style sconces, or even string lights can add character to porches in the Northern and Upper East lake regions. Shorter daylight hours in these areas make proper lighting essential for year-round usability.

Screen in Your Porch for Comfort and Protection

Screened porch of lake home ensconced in greenery outside, comfy cushioned seating pieces, coffee table, and dog sleeping on floor
Photo courtesy of Kelly Marshall via Elle Decor

Screening in your porch can make outdoor relaxation more enjoyable in areas where mosquitos and other pests are a concern, such as the Mid-Atlantic and Southeast lake regions. A well-designed screened porch can blend seamlessly with your home’s architecture. It can also keep insects at bay and provide additional shade.

Install a Porch Swing or Swinging Daybed for a Tranquil Ambiance

Natural wood swing bed on front porch with potted plants, woven rug, and black trimmed windows
Photo courtesy of One Kindesign

Few things evoke relaxation like a porch swing or a cushioned daybed. This addition works beautifully in the Texas Gulf and Southeast lake regions. Gentle breezes and scenic views in these areas create the perfect setting for unwinding with a book or watching the sunset.

Upgrade Flooring and Ceiling for a Refreshed Look

Southern-style front porch with blue painted ceiling, ceiling fans, rocking chairs, and potted ferns. Brick walkway and hydrangea bushes in foreground
Photo courtesy of Stevie Simonson via Elle Decor

Elevating your porch’s aesthetic can be as simple as installing new flooring or painting the ceiling in an eye-catching hue. Classic blue ceilings, for example, are a staple in Southern lake homes. They are believed to deter insects while adding a charming, coastal touch. Meanwhile, natural wood or stone flooring provides a rustic, high-end feel in the Pacific Northwest and Northern lake regions.

Your front porch is an extension of your home’s personality and reflects your lifestyle. Whether you aim for a rustic retreat, a contemporary oasis, or a traditional charm, these porch enhancements can help maximize curb appeal. They can also improve functionality. By tailoring your porch style to your lake region’s climate and aesthetics, you can create a welcoming space that not only impresses visitors but also offers an inviting sanctuary for relaxation and enjoyment throughout the seasons. For more lake-inspired décor tips, visit Lake Home Lifestyles.

Whiteboard Topics: Lake Home Sellers Should Know These Buyer Traits

Posted on Zac Parnell

Are you selling your lake home? You, as a seller, have traits that most sellers exhibit. The same goes for lake home buyers. Because you are trying to sell your home, you should be aware of what these typical buyer traits are and how to spot them. Lake Home Realty’s CEO, Glenn Phillips, discusses what some of these traits are and how to be on the lookout for them.

  1. Often Live >100 Miles Away: Most buyers who purchase lake property are looking for something they can move to in retirement or a place they can have as their getaway. Knowing that typical lake buyers are coming as far away as other states or cross country is important when it comes to marketing towards them.
  2. “Want What They Want”: It isn’t very common that your typical lake home buyer is looking for anything in a hurry. They don’t need a home immediately to ensure their kids can be in a certain school system or any other reason behind a quick move. They could spend months to years waiting to find exactly what it is they want.
  3. Willing to pay…but RARELY overpay: Most people who are buying lake property are smart with their money. You can see that the inventory has grown a lot in the past couple of months. These buyers aren’t willing to pay for a home that is overpriced, a more and more are becoming that.
  4. Unconcerned with school systems: The usual demographic is 55 and older. They might have grandkids coming to visit, but that doesn’t mean the specific school systems in the area are pertinent for these buyers.
  5. Hospital Reasonably Close: Like the previous point, the age demographic is a little older than your usual real estate market. Knowing you’re not too far away from a medical center is something that is being looked into when a buyer is considering moving to the lake.

Knowing these buyer traits can benefit you if you’re beginning the selling process or have been in it for a minute. If you would like help with selling or simply more details about these traits, reach out to one of our lake agents today at https://www.lakehomes.com/. They would be more than willing to lend a helping hand.

Whiteboard Topics: 7 Signs A Lake Home Is Unrealistically Priced

Posted on Zac Parnell

Pricing is an important factor when it comes to buying and selling a lake home. On the buyer’s side, you typically want to find a home that is within your budget and not something astronomically outrageous. From the seller’s side, pricing a home appropriately means more people are willing to look at it. Glenn Phillips, CEO of Lake Homes Realty, breaks down 7 different signs that a lake home is not priced realistically.

  1. Days-on-Market (DOM): Transparency is important. If your home has been on the market longer than 60-90 days, specifically for lake properties, it typically indicates that something isn’t right about the transaction. If the home is priced about 10-15% or more up than what the market is realistically expecting, people won’t take the time to even look at the home.
  2. Big Appraisal Gap: This was a bigger deal during the COVID frenzy, where people were willing to pay a higher price for the home than the appraisal price. However, since we have shifted from that, people aren’t as willing to spend that money.
  3. “Back on the Market”: This could indicate a price problem, either an issue with the mortgage appraisal not matching or an issue with the house, and the buyer and seller couldn’t agree on how to solve it in terms of the price.
  4. Massive $ Increase: This relates to an increase in the price of the house from when it was initially purchased to now, and there hasn’t been much done or changed about the property. If the seller can’t explain why there would be such a price increase, it more than likely means the home is overpriced.
  5. Multiple Price Cuts: The home has a lot of days on the market, as well as multiple cuts in the price. They might not even be significant price cuts. However, a buyer can see this and expect more cuts to happen before even looking at the property.
  6. Sellers: No (or Few) Showings: Having nobody come to look at the property is a key indicator that the home is priced poorly. Having people come and view your home is something that should be happening.
  7. Sellers: No Offers (or Similarly Low): Having people come and look at the home is great, but receiving no offers or even low offers means the pricing is off. If you’re receiving low offers, it can often be the buyer trying to offer at a more accurate price point.

Having a home that sits on the market for months due to pricing is something no seller or buyer, for that matter, wants. Ensuring you have priced your lake home appropriately is key in ensuring you can sell it. If you’re struggling with pinpointing what price is right for your home, contact one of our lake agents today! They would be more than willing to help you out!

Whiteboard Topics: 4 Big Mistakes When Hiring A Lake Real Estate Agent

Posted on Zac Parnell

Now is the time when you have decided to either buy a lake home or sell the one you currently have. However, you have to make a pretty big decision, which real estate agent to work with? Before you decide to choose one randomly, check out what Lake Homes Realty’s CEO, Glenn Phillips, has to say when it comes to mistakes made when hiring an agent.

  1. Generalist Instead Of Specialist: The biggest mistake people usually make is hiring an agent who doesn’t specialize in lake real estate. A general real estate agent might know the nuances of transactions and other facets of the real estate world but not necessarily the ins and outs of the lake market. There are many different rules and regulations when it comes to buying and selling within the realm of lake real estate.
  2. Family As A Favor: Everyone would love to help out family, especially if they are new to the world of real estate. There are other ways to help out your family without negatively affecting your transactions. This is where working with a specialist really benefits you.
  3. Just Picking A Friend: Similarly to the family aspect, working alongside someone who knows what it really takes to work within this market is always going to be better than simply just someone you know. That friend might not know the exact questions that need to be asked and a plethora of other things that a seasoned lake agent will know.
  4. Only Think Local: This is particularly a mistake when selling. There are ways to target buyers in various parts of the country. This will help directly target lake buyers within many different states. A lake agent knows how to go about this and the ways you can truly target dedicated lake buyers.

These 4 mistakes are common in selling lake properties. However, they don’t have to be. A great way to avoid these is by working alongside a seasoned lake real estate expert. There are many different agents who would love to help you navigate the process of buying or selling lake property. Check them out at https://www.lakehomes.com/ and ask any other questions you might have.

Top Deck: Frame Your Lake View Like A Pro with these Deck Railing Styles

Posted on Jeanne Delathouder

Estimated reading time: 6 minutes

Cable deck railing with low-voltage accent lighting from TimberTech, overlooking waterfront scene at sunset
Photo Courtesy of TimberTech

A deck railing is more than just a safety feature—it plays a vital role in defining the style and functionality of your lakefront space. The right railing enhances your home’s architectural charm. It frames the view and ensures durability against the elements. With various materials and styles available, selecting the best option depends on your region, climate, and personal design preferences. Whether you favor a sleek, modern look or a rustic, natural aesthetic, there is a deck railing style suited to your lake home.

Safety Considerations

Beyond aesthetics, safety is a key factor in choosing the right deck railing. If you have children or pets, selecting a railing with minimal gaps and sturdy construction is essential. Additionally, railing height requirements vary by location. So, checking local building codes ensures compliance. Materials also play a role in safety—some options, like tempered glass or stainless steel, provide strength and clear sightlines.

Cable Railings

cable deck railing at lakehouse in Pacific Northwest with lake and mountains in the backdrop
Photo courtesy of 3 Brothers Decking

Sleek and modern cable railings provide an unobstructed view of the water. Their minimalist design makes them ideal for contemporary and waterfront homes where preserving the scenery is a priority. Made from durable stainless-steel cables and metal posts, they require minimal maintenance. They can withstand extreme weather conditions, making them an excellent choice for northern lake homes and the Pacific Northwest. For added ambiance, consider incorporating LED post cap lights to softly illuminate your deck space without detracting from the clean, open aesthetic.

Glass Panel Railings

Glass panel deck railing combined with stained wood overlooking lake
Photo courtesy of eGlassRailing

Offering a seamless view while shielding against wind, glass panels are excellent for Mid-Atlantic and California lake properties, where maintaining scenic visibility is key. These railings create a luxurious, high-end feel while providing safety and durability. Tempered glass panels are shatter-resistant and require occasional cleaning to maintain clarity, which makes them a stylish yet practical choice for modern lakefront homes. Integrated lighting along the railing base or solar-powered post-cap lights can further enhance the contemporary appeal while ensuring visibility in the evening.

Traditional Wood Railings

Wood deck railing combined with metal and black post caps overlooking lake setting at sunset
Photo courtesy of DIYHomeCenter

A timeless choice, wood railings blend seamlessly with rustic and classic lake homes. Cedar and pressure-treated pine are excellent for humid climates like the Southeast, offering natural resistance to moisture and pests. These railings can be stained or painted to match your home’s aesthetic. However, they require regular maintenance to prevent weathering. Their natural appeal makes them an excellent fit for traditional and historic lake homes in the Eastern region. Adding built-in lantern-style post lights or recessed lighting along the rail can provide a warm and inviting glow, enhancing your outdoor gathering space.

Metal Railings

Metal deck railing with cable railing and illuminated metal post caps and accent lighting overlooking lake
Photo Courtesy of MarinaDockAge

Powder-coated aluminum or wrought iron railings offer durability and a sophisticated aesthetic. Aluminum railings are lightweight, rust-resistant, and perfect for Texas Gulf lake homes where heat and humidity can cause other materials to degrade. On the other hand, wrought iron railings offer a more decorative and classic appeal while providing strength against extreme seasonal changes in the Northern Lake Regions. Both options are long-lasting and require minimal upkeep. You can install low-voltage LED lighting strips or decorative sconces to complement the design to highlight your railing and improve your nighttime ambiance.

Composite Railings

Composite deck railing shown on a boat dock
Photo courtesy of Lumberock

A low-maintenance alternative to wood, composite railings resist moisture and fading. Thus, they are perfect for humid and salty air conditions in Gulf lake regions and the Southeast. They come in various colors and textures that mimic the look of natural wood without the need for staining or sealing. Composite railings are also resistant to pests and rot, making them a cost-effective and durable option for homeowners who want a wood-like aesthetic with far less maintenance. Many composite railing systems offer built-in lighting solutions, including solar-powered post caps and under-rail lighting, bringing elegance and functionality to your outdoor space.

Vinyl Railings

white vinyl deck railing on outdoor stairs with lake in the backdrop
Photo courtesy of Barrette Outdoor Living

Highly durable and easy to clean, vinyl railings are an excellent choice for areas with varying weather conditions, including the Mid-Atlantic and Texas Gulf Lake regions. Their resistance to moisture, insects, and UV rays ensures they won’t fade, rot, or crack over time. Available in various styles and colors, vinyl railings provide a clean and polished look that complements traditional and modern homes. Their affordability and minimal maintenance make them a practical choice for busy homeowners. Many vinyl railing systems come with built-in solar post caps or accent lighting. These provide an energy-efficient way to illuminate your deck while maintaining a crisp, polished aesthetic.

Selecting the right deck railing is crucial to designing an inviting and functional outdoor space. Each style offers distinct advantages, from unobstructed views and weather resistance to low maintenance and timeless aesthetics. When selecting, homeowners should consider regional climate factors, architectural styles, and personal preferences. Whether embracing the sleek look of cable railings, the rustic charm of wood railings, or the modern appeal of glass panels, the right choice can enhance the beauty and usability of a lakefront property. By carefully evaluating the options, lake homeowners can create an outdoor retreat that maximizes safety and scenic enjoyment for years. For more inspiration on home improvement, visit Lake Home Lifestyles.

Whiteboard Topics: In Lake Real Estate “Highest And Best Offer” Is Not An Auction

Posted on Zac Parnell

When you are buying or selling, there may be terms thrown around, such as ” Highest” or “Best” when referring to offers. In reality, it’s not an auction. It’s actually the furthest thing from it. Lake Homes Realty’s CEO, Glenn Phillips, breaks down the different meaning meanings behind these terms.

  1. Not An Auction!
    • Highest $ May Not Win: The highest is strictly just a number. This does not ensure whoever offers the highest amount will be the one purchasing the property. The seller is the one who decides who they want to do a transaction with.
    • Seller Selects Their Buyer: When it comes down to the transaction, it is fully up to the seller to decide how and if they want to proceed.
  2. Look To “De-risk The Deal”– Remove the probability the seller might become uncomfortable with the offer.
    • Cash Versus Mortgage: Over half of the transactions done at Lake Homes Realty are made in cash. That doesn’t mean mortgages don’t happen. In the instances when a mortgage is in play, there is always the chance it won’t go through. There could even be an appraisal gap. Using cash is one less risk.
    • Timeframe Might Be Important: A seller could want to move very quickly or they might not have a time constraint. Utilizing the time frame and the nuances that come with it can help to make your offer the best.
    • Size Of Earnest Money: As a seller, seeing someone with a bigger size of earnest money can lead the seller to think they have more intent on wanting to purchase the home.
    • Fewer Contingencies: It’s not just the mortgage aspect. There could be home inspections, HOA fees, and a whole list of other things. If you are able to eliminate any of those extra contingencies, that can remove the possibility that the seller is uncomfortable.
    • Simplicity: If things become too complex, it can lead to the seller becoming confused, which, in turn, leads to the seller saying no.

When it really comes down to it, the “Highest and Best” offer can be great but can also hold a lot more nuance than people might realize. If you still have questions regarding which ways to navigate offers, talk with an agent at https://www.lakehomes.com/. They would be more than happy to help you along your real estate journey.