Tag: lake life

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.

Wild Landscaping: Replace Your Lakefront Lawn with Native Low-Maintenance Alternatives

Posted on Jeanne Delathouder

Estimated reading time: 5 minutes

For lakefront property owners, maintaining a beautiful landscape often means battling excessive water consumption, frequent mowing, and constant upkeep. But what if you could have a lush, thriving outdoor space that enhances biodiversity, conserves water, and requires minimal maintenance? Wild landscaping, often called native or meadow landscaping, is an eco-friendly alternative that replaces traditional grass lawns with native plants, wildflowers, and ground covers suited to the local environment. Whether you swap small lawn patches for pollinator-friendly flowers or fully convert your property into a natural oasis, wild landscaping provides a sustainable way to enjoy a scenic and thriving lakeside retreat. Here are six regionally tailored landscaping alternatives to consider for your lakefront property.

Photo by Freddie Ramm

Pollinator-Friendly Wildflower Meadows

A wildflower meadow offers a vibrant, low-maintenance solution for property owners in the Eastern lake regions, such as the Finger Lakes or Adirondacks. Native flowers like black-eyed Susans, purple coneflowers, and milkweed attract bees and butterflies while thriving in the region’s moderate rainfall. When establishing a meadow, planting a mix of seeds in the fall or early spring is best to ensure they receive full sun and well-drained soil. Once the plants establish strong roots, minimal watering is needed, making this option water-efficient and visually stunning.

Woodland ground cover lancscaping from The Garden Company Homes & Gardens
Photo courtesy of James Scott – The Garden Company via Homes & Gardens

Woodland Ground Covers

Lake properties in the Mid-Atlantic, including Deep Creek Lake and Smith Mountain Lake, often feature partially wooded areas ideal for native ground covers. Instead of maintaining grass in shady spots, consider planting ferns, wild ginger, and foamflower, which flourish with minimal care. These plants reduce soil erosion, suppress weeds, and provide a lush, green understory. To establish a ground cover, plant in early spring and use natural mulch to retain moisture while reducing the need for irrigation.

Drought-tolerant prairie grasses in North Carolina landscape
Photo courtesy of Wikimedia Commons

Drought-Tolerant Prairie Grasses

Southeastern lakes like those in Georgia and the Carolinas experience hot summers, making drought-resistant landscaping essential. Native prairie grasses like switchgrass, little bluestem, and muhly grass offer a hardy, ornamental alternative to traditional lawns. Once established, these grasses require little to no watering and add movement and texture to the landscape. For best results, plant in late spring and trim back in early winter to encourage new growth.

example of boreal forest landscaping at modern lake home in Minnesota's Boundary Waters region
Photo Courtesy of OneKindesign

Boreal Forest-Inspired Plantings

The Northern Great Lakes region, encompassing areas like Michigan’s Upper Peninsula and Minnesota’s Boundary Waters, is home to a cooler climate with naturally occurring boreal forests. Native ferns, blueberry bushes, and wild columbine thrive here with minimal intervention. These plants provide seasonal interest, from spring blooms to fall foliage, while supporting local wildlife. To create a boreal-inspired landscape, plant in early summer and allow natural leaf litter to act as mulch, reducing watering needs and enhancing soil health.

Rain garden example in Pacific Northwest lake region from Garden Therapy
Photo courtesy of Garden Therapy

Rain Gardens for Natural Drainage

A rain garden is a practical and aesthetically pleasing solution for lakefront homes in the Pacific Northwest, such as those near Washington’s Lake Chelan or Oregon’s Crater Lake. Rain gardens use native plants like sedges, Pacific bleeding heart, and Douglas aster to absorb excess water and prevent runoff. Planted in a shallow depression, these gardens filter pollutants and enhance local biodiversity. To establish one, choose a location where water naturally collects, amend the soil for good drainage, and plant in early fall for strong root development before winter rains.

Xeriscaping with native succulents and hardy drought-tolerant plants from Epic Gardening
Photo courtesy of Epic Gardening

Xeriscaping with Native Succulents and Shrubs

Lakefront properties in Texas, including those around Lake Travis and Possum Kingdom Lake, face intense heat and drought conditions. Xeriscaping—landscaping that relies on drought-tolerant plants—provides a resilient alternative. Native succulents like agave and yucca and hardy shrubs such as Texas sage and mountain laurel create a stunning, low-water landscape. To maximize efficiency, use gravel or decomposed granite as mulch and group plants with similar water needs. Watering should be minimal to occasional deep soaking during prolonged dry periods.

By embracing wild landscaping tailored to your lake region, you can create a low-maintenance, water-conscious outdoor space that enhances the natural beauty of your property. Whether incorporating a wildflower meadow in the East, a rain garden in the Pacific Northwest, or drought-resistant xeriscaping in Texas, each approach fosters biodiversity while reducing environmental impact. Making the shift away from traditional lawns conserves water and encourages a thriving, self-sustaining ecosystem that enhances your lakefront retreat for years to come. For more gardening and landscaping inspiration, visit Lake Home Lifestyles.

Sailboats Explained: Types and Terminology

Posted on Camille Smith

Estimated reading time: 4 minutes

Photo by Pixabay

Sailing is one of the classic joys of lake living. On a day with a gentle wind, there’s nothing better than hoisting the mainsail and enjoying a quiet afternoon. Whether for recreation or transportation, sailing has permeated cultures worldwide since ancient times. Because of these early roots, unlike motorized boats, operating a sailboat requires a specific skill set and knowledge of terminology. 

In addition to understanding the lingo of sailboats, it’s also important to know the different types. In general, sailboats can be categorized in various ways based on their primary hull design, the keel, and the mast. For those new to the lexicon, a hull refers to the body of the boat, a keel is the main structural backbone, and a mast is a towering pole that holds sails in place. Today, we’ll be using the hull-based categorization system. For an introductory crash course, check out these three basic types of sailboats!

Monohull

Photo by Diogo Miranda

Monohulls are the most common type of sailboats. This classic structure is defined by a single body with a large beam, usually sporting a classic, clean look. Part of their popularity is their ability to provide both storage and stability simultaneously. However, monohull sailboats have decreased in popularity recently for those who engage in sailing competitions since the extra storage space isn’t conducive for higher speeds. If you’re curious about the keel categorization, traditional monohulls tend to have full keels, cutaway keels, or fin keels.

One of the most common designs in the monohull family is a dinghy, a short sailboat for one or two people that’s easy to maneuver. Although the name implies shabby characteristics, dinghies are useful little boats to have at a lake house. Other varieties of monohulls include cutters (a medium-sized sailboat with three sails), sloops (a single mast with one mainsail and one headsail), ketches (two main masts with one around midship), and schooners (more than two sails which are supported on masts). A sloop is probably the one that comes to mind when thinking of a modern sailboat.

Catamaran

Photo courtesy of Wikimedia Commons

Often nicknamed cats, catamarans are defined by their double hulls. More specifically, catamarans have twin-hulled structures attached together by specialized members. Appropriately, the word means “tied pieces of wood” in Tamil, a South Indian language. The twin hulls provide stability for these boats, which are popular for their expansive interior room and increased deck space. Although these boats have a higher speed than monohulls, they tend to sail more off-course because their keels are not as heavy.

A few specific types include beach catamarans (popular for day sailing and among those with little sailing experience) and charter catamarans (much larger boats that usually feature both sails and a motor). Outside of the sailing world, motorized cats are gaining popularity among lake homeowners. Boats like pontoons and other “power cats” are well-regarded among anglers and cruisers alike.

Multi-Hull

Photo courtesy of Wikimedia Commons

Multi-hull sailboats feature anywhere between three and five hulls, although a three-hull variation is most common. These three-hull types, also known as trimarans, typically have a main hull and two side hulls for stability. On some of these boats, the side hulls can fold inward to make the boat more narrow. Due to their large beam and low center of gravity, these sailboats are very stable. As such, they make popular sailboats which only require small engines for propelling forward. Beyond the trimaran, four and five-hulled sailboats are rarely used commercially or by lake homeowners. 

We hope this brief introduction serves as a helpful foray into sailboat types! If you’re looking to learn more, stay up-to-date by subscribing to Lake Homes Lifestyles for more insights on all things sailing. 

Whiteboard Topics: AVOID These 5 Questions When Selling a Lake Home

Posted on Chris Melton

Selling a lake home comes with several questions, but some are better than others. Glenn Phillips, CEO of Lake Homes Realty, discusses 5 questions to avoid when selling a lake home.

  1. “How many views did my listing get online?” The truth is that there’s no right answer to this question. If you get plenty of views, you start to think the websites aren’t good or the buyers aren’t serious. However, if you aren’t getting any, you’re still upset since there’s no traffic. The right amount of views is the one that leads to a transaction. The real reason sellers ask this is to know why they aren’t getting a transaction. Most of the time, if the property is marketed well, the home isn’t properly priced.
  2. “Should we counter-offer?” In negotiation, you always counter-offer. Not giving a counteroffer eliminates any chance of a negotiation. Counter-offers aren’t always about price; they can include extra property or furniture. Work through the negotiation to keep the discussion going until you reach a transaction.
  3. “Can you co-list with my relative?” What this question really means is that you want to hire an agent to do the work and split the check with your relative. If you don’t feel your agent is worth the money, don’t hire them.
  4. “Where is your office?” Office location for lake agents isn’t important. Most lake home buyers come from cities or states away and don’t want to come into town to look at an office. Lake home buyers would rather look at the house than go to an office.
  5. “Does your brokerage have a lot of agents?” This is more of a filler question when interviewing agents. Instead, ask them how they differentiate themselves from the other agents to be successful.

Asking your agent the right questions can make a world of difference when selling lake homes. Visit lakehomes.com to connect with expert lake agents who are ready to guide you to a successful transaction.

Whiteboard Topics: 4 Things Lake Home Sellers Say That Cost Extra

Posted on Chris Melton

Lake home sellers use some common phrases that may end up costing them money. Glenn Phillips, CEO of Lake Homes Realty, discusses 4 things lake home sellers say that could backfire.

  1. “Let’s leave room for negotiations.” No matter what price you set for your house, the buyer will always try to meet you somewhere between your price and their price. Additionally, appropriately priced homes sell quickly and don’t sit on the market. Intentionally overpricing causes frustration and costs you money by having your home sit on the market.
  2. “We can reduce the price later.” Lake Homes Realty data suggests that overpriced homes don’t get offers and sit on the market. Overpriced homes also cause contention with your agent, as you believe they aren’t doing their job well. Once you start reducing your price, you’re training buyers to offer lower than the list price.
  3. “This is the price I need so I can…” Often, sellers price their home with the intention of paying for a trip, debt, or some other expense. However, this has nothing to do with what the market says. Buyers don’t care about what you want to buy with the transaction money. Your home will only sell for what the market says it’s worth, not what you need to pay for something else.
  4. “I really don’t have to sell.” Listing a home costs everyone involved time and money. If you don’t have to sell, then don’t. Playing around with the market costs you and other people a lot of time and money.

These common phrases often cost sellers extra time and money. Selling a lake home is a business transaction, so you should treat it like one. Visit lakehomes.com to connect with expert lake agents ready to guide you through lake real estate.

Whiteboard Topics: 4 Pointless Beliefs of Lake Real Estate Agents

Posted on Chris Melton

When you’re trying to find a real estate agent, you want to ensure you’re getting the best representation possible. Glenn Phillips, CEO of Lake Homes Realty, discusses a few things agents believe aren’t really true.

  1. “I work at the largest brokerage in the area.” Agents working for a large local brokerage are working alongside their competitors. Large brokerages make agents feel comfortable by bringing in a large number of agents. Large brokerages don’t make a difference for consumers, as their home gets listed no matter what.
  2. “My listings appear on thousands of websites.” Homes listed by any agent in any market across the country are syndicated to thousands of websites. Unless the property is being hidden and not advertised on the internet, it will appear on thousands of websites.
  3. “I earn stock in my publicly traded brokerage.” This is a common tactic for retention and recruiting agents. However, you can invest in the brokerage yourself if it’s publicly traded.
  4. “The ‘serious’ clients will leave a message.” People don’t want to leave messages anymore. If they get sent to voicemail, they’ll keep calling around until someone picks up. Great agents answer the phone even if it means dealing with spam.

Like anybody else, agents often believe things they do work when they don’t. Watching out for these sayings can help you find the best agent for you. If you’re looking to buy or sell, visit lakehomes.com to connect with expert agents who are ready to help you through the process.