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

Estimated reading time: 5 minutes

Wild landscaping for a Lake Washington property near Seattle, WA
Photo Courtesy of Claire Takacs via Portrait Magazine

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.

Pollinator-friendly wildflower meadow landscape in an Eastern lake region
Photo courtesy of Down East Magazine

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 Eagle Examiner

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

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

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

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

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.

Let the Light In: Sunroom Styles for Every Taste

Estimated reading time: 7 minutes

Sunroom and sleeping porch in the Deep South with simple cots, oudtoor chairs, wooden coffee table, ceiling fan, guitar in corner
Photo Courtesy of Ryann Ford via Architectural Digest

It’s time to let the light in. Sunshine always lifts our spirits, especially during the cold winter doldrums, so why not harness this mood-lifter in your lake home? A sunroom is an exceptional addition to any lake property, providing a serene space to soak in the natural beauty of the surroundings. Offering a perfect blend of indoor comfort and outdoor charm, a sunroom allows homeowners to enjoy panoramic views of the lake in a controlled environment shielded from harsh weather or insects. The allure of having a sunroom is particularly evident in colder regions, where it provides a cozy retreat to experience the beauty of winter landscapes without braving the cold.

The unique charm of a sunroom lies in its ability to merge relaxation with functionality, serving as a versatile space for entertaining, reading, or simply unwinding. Depending on your location, a sunroom can also serve as a reflection of regional design influences. Check out these decorating tips and aesthetic suggestions tailored to six lake regions across the United States.

Northern Lake Region

Sunroom of home on Reeds Lake in East Grand Rapids, MI, with upholstered seating, cushioned wicker seating, lake views, neutral decor, and a Jack Russell terrier
Photo courtesy of One Kindesign

The rustic and tranquil surroundings of the Northern Lake region inspire a cozy, cabin-like retreat. Capturing stunning views of Reeds Lake in East Grand Rapids, Michigan, this charming sunroom offers the best seat in the house. Instantly inviting, the space needs little more than some comfy seating pieces and simple accessories. It’s best to choose overstuffed sofas and armchairs with pillows and throws for extra softness and warmth in this climate. If you have a central fireplace or wood stove, that’s even better. You can arrange your seating around it for cozy warmth during the chilly months.

Large picture windows with no treatments maximize natural light and views. If privacy is needed, use simple wooden blinds or shades. Earthy tones or nautical blues mix effortlessly with neutral tones to enhance the rustic feel of the lake landscape. Layer the room with faux-fur throws, handwoven blankets, and natural fiber rugs to create an environment of livable luxury. You can also include soft lighting, wildlife-themed artwork, and organic sculptural works to complement the beauty of the outdoors.

Southeastern Lake Region

Southeaster Lake region sunroom with bamboo chaise lounge, striped cushion, bar cart, organic wooden table, brick floors, and splendid lake views
Photo courtesy of Veranda

The Southeastern Lake region’s sunny climate and lush landscapes call for a breezy, Southern-inspired aesthetic. Opt for whitewashed wood or wrought iron furniture with plush cushions. Arrange seating to create a cozy conversation area and include a side table for refreshments. Uncovered windows are best for capturing lake views, and enhancements like arched windows or plantation shutters are ideal for a classic Southern feel. Lightweight sheer curtains in pastel hues will also complement the airy vibe.

Soft pastels like mint green, peach, and sky blue, accented by crisp white, create a light and cheerful ambiance. Bare floors bring a cooling rustic touch, and for softness, you can incorporate sisal or seagrass rugs, floral-patterned pillows, and gauzy throws. Personalize your space with framed vintage maps, prints, or botanical artwork to befit your style.

Upper East Lake Region

Upper East Lake region with white wicker furniture, stone fireplace, slate floors, area rug, large windows with water views
Photo courtesy DigsDigs

A sunroom in the Upper East Lake region, known for its historic charm and lush greenery, can evoke a classic New England feel. Focus on timeless and elegant styles with modern touches. Opt for wicker or rattan furniture with weathered wood finishes. Arrange seating to maximize views, with a central coffee table anchoring the room. Include a chaise lounge or swing chair for added comfort. Bay windows or floor-to-ceiling panes work well to frame picturesque landscapes. Pair these with light linen curtains or Roman shades for privacy without obstructing natural light.

Neutral cream, sage green, and soft gray palettes, accented by navy blue or cranberry red, reflect the coastal inspiration. Introduce braided jute rugs, plaid or striped throw pillows, and soft wool blankets. For a region-specific touch, add coastal artwork, such as watercolor prints of lighthouses or sailboats.

Mid-Atlantic Lake Region

Mid-Atlantic Lake region sunroom with domed ceiling feature, chandelier, rotunda-like space with plush seating, area rug, wood floors
Photo courtesy of Decoist

The Mid-Atlantic Lake region blends traditional and transitional styles, offering opportunities to create a polished yet inviting sunroom. Choose upholstered furniture with clean lines and subtle patterns. A loveseat paired with armchairs and a tufted ottoman adds a sophisticated touch. Arrange pieces around a small coffee table to encourage conversation. Opt for French doors or casement windows for a classic look. Use sheer curtains or bamboo blinds to balance light and privacy.

Warm neutrals, such as beige, taupe, and soft gold, accented by jewel tones like emerald green or sapphire blue, evoke the richness of the region’s heritage. Layer the space with Persian-style rugs, velvet cushions, and ceramic vases. To enhance the traditional vibe, incorporate framed botanical prints or antique-inspired mirrors.

Gulf Coast Lake Region

Gulf Coast Lake region sunroom with nautical theme, bright colors, striped rug, weathered antique chest coffee table, large windows, water views
Photo Courtesy of Decoist

Capture the coastal essence of the Gulf Coast Lake region with a casual and vibrant sunroom style. Choose sturdy outdoor furniture with weather-resistant cushions. Arrange seating in a U-shape for entertaining and include a bar cart for a beachy vibe. Sliding glass doors or oversized windows offer unobstructed water views. Opt for minimal treatments like solar shades to reduce glare. Bright hues like turquoise, coral, and sandy beige mimic the coastal landscape. Include woven area rugs, macramé wall hangings, and brightly patterned pillows. Seashells, driftwood art, or nautical décor enhance the coastal aesthetic.

Pacific Northwest Lake Region

Pacific Northwest Lake region sunroom with expansive glass walls, lake views, mid-century modern neutral furniture, modern accents
Photo courtesy of Decoist

The Pacific Northwest Lake region’s eclectic and nature-inspired style invites you to create a sunroom that’s both modern and organic. Choose minimalist furniture with clean lines, such as mid-century modern pieces. Arrange seating to emphasize openness and flow. Floor-to-ceiling glass walls or skylights maximize natural light. Use sheer panels or roller shades for an unobtrusive look. Earthy neutrals like taupe, olive, and charcoal, accented by soft blues or mustard yellow, reflect the natural surroundings. Incorporate shag rugs, woolen throws, and leather pillows. Abstract artwork or nature photography ties the design to the region’s scenic splendor.

A sunroom at your lake property is more than a design choice—it’s an invitation to immerse yourself in nature while enjoying modern comforts. By tailoring the design to your specific region, you can create a space that complements the local landscape and reflects your personal style. Thoughtful furniture arrangements, carefully selected colors, and layered textures ensure your sunroom becomes a cherished retreat, enhancing both the functionality and beauty of your lake property. For more design inspiration, visit Lake Homes Lifestyles.

Winter Warriors: Nurturing Your Indoor Plants to Thrive Over the Long Cold Winter

Estimated reading time: 6 minutes

potted plants in a window with a frosty winter scene in the backdrop
Photo courtesy of Getty Images/Melinda Podor via Home & Gardens

Winter can be harsh for indoor plants, especially for garden enthusiasts who treasure their greenery as part of their serene lakeside retreat. But a few essential plant care tips can help your greenery stay healthy and beautiful all season long. Winter brings shorter days and cooler temperatures that challenge the survival of indoor plants. Ensuring your plant life thrives during this time requires a few strategic adjustments to meet their needs. Reduced sunlight, cooler temperatures, and drier indoor air conditions can task even the most resilient houseplants. Adjusting care routines and selecting the right plants can help create a thriving indoor oasis to brighten your lake home during the colder months.

Sunlight Needs

grouping of indoor plants with grow lights hanging above and window in the background
Photo courtesy Vadim Kaipov/Unsplash via House & Gardens

During winter, natural light is limited, and the sun’s angle is lower, resulting in fewer hours of direct sunlight indoors. Position your plants near south- or east-facing windows to maximize exposure to the weaker winter rays. Clean your windows regularly and dust your plant leaves to ensure no barriers block sunlight absorption.

Consider adding grow lights to your setup if you notice your plants leaning toward light sources or their growth slowing significantly. LED grow lights are energy-efficient and designed to emit light in spectrums that encourage photosynthesis. They are beneficial for homes with small windows or cloudy winter climates. Position the grow lights six to twelve inches above the plants, following the manufacturer’s recommendations to avoid overheating the foliage.

Watering Requirements & Tips

hand with spray water bottle spraying leaves of indoor plant
Photo courtesy Dukai Photographer / Getty Images via House Beautiful

Overwatering is one of the most common mistakes in winter plant care. As temperatures drop and plants enter their dormant phase, they require less water. Check the soil before watering—only water when the top inch of soil feels dry. Use room-temperature water to avoid shocking the roots.

Pay attention to humidity, as indoor heating systems can dry the air. Grouping plants together, placing water trays with pebbles beneath pots, or using a small humidifier can help maintain optimal moisture levels. Avoid letting plants sit in standing water, as this can lead to root rot. Plants like cacti and succulents, which naturally prefer dry conditions, may only need watering once a month in winter.

Ideal Temperatures

hanging plants and a potted plant in black containers in a black bathroom with natural wood walls and white tub
Photo courtesy of Marnie Hawson via Home Beautiful

Houseplants thrive in stable indoor temperatures, typically between 65°F and 75°F. Sudden fluctuations caused by drafts, open doors, or proximity to heat sources can stress plants. Avoid placing plants near exterior doors, radiators, or heating vents.

For those with a fireplace in their lake home, position plants safely away from the heat to prevent foliage from drying out. Maintaining consistent conditions mimics the stable environment plants experience in their natural habitats.

Fertilizing Tips

Homemade Plant Food Recipe Chart
Photo Courtesy of Good Earth Plant Company

Most houseplants don’t require frequent fertilizing during winter, as their growth slows. Applying fertilizer during this dormant period can lead to salt buildup in the soil, potentially damaging the plant. However, if you notice signs of nutrient deficiency—like yellowing leaves—apply a diluted liquid fertilizer sparingly, no more than once every six to eight weeks. For blooming indoor plants such as peace lilies or orchids, consider a fertilizer tailored for flowering species. These formulas contain higher levels of phosphorus, which encourages blooms. Always follow the label instructions and use less rather than more when in doubt.

If you are an experienced gardener and DIY-er, you can make a homemade version of Miracle-Gro fertilizer with safe household ingredients. For more tips on fertilizing, visit Good Earth Plant Company.

Customizing Your Plant Aesthetic

Pothos plant in white container set in a wicker tray holding bar essentials and a watercolor painting above
Photo courtesy of Mindi Cook via Home Beautiful

Indoor plants are beneficial for air quality and a key element of home decor, especially during winter when your lakeside property may feel a bit more subdued. Selecting the right plant shapes and container styles can transform your living spaces.

For a modern aesthetic, choose plants with clean lines and pair them with sleek ceramic or metallic pots in neutral tones. If you’re leaning toward a cozy, rustic vibe, consider trailing plants like pothos or philodendrons in woven baskets or terracotta containers.

Add bursts of color with flowering plants like anthuriums or African violets. You can also highlight seasonal cheer by choosing planters in seasonal hues or textures, such as frosted glass or wood finishes, that evoke the natural beauty of your lake property. Combining plants of varying heights and shapes creates a layered, dynamic display that can become a centerpiece in any room.

Houseplants in a grouping by a window seat with green cushion
Photo courtesy of Patch Plants

Certain plant varieties are ideal for winter because they thrive in low light and require minimal upkeep. Consider adding these to your home:

  • Snake Plant (Sansevieria): This hardy plant tolerates low light and infrequent watering, making it an excellent choice for busy lake homeowners. Its upright leaves add a sculptural element to your decor.
  • ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia): Known for its glossy, waxy leaves, the ZZ plant is nearly indestructible. It survives well in dimly lit spaces and prefers soil to dry out completely between waterings.
  • Pothos (Epipremnum aureum): A versatile trailing plant that thrives in indirect light, the pothos plant is forgiving if neglected and comes in several varieties with variegated or golden leaves.
  • Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum): This low-maintenance plant adds greenery and purifies the air. It prefers moderate light but can survive in lower light settings.
  • Cast Iron Plant (Aspidistra elatior): True to its name, this plant is highly resilient. It tolerates low light, drier air, and minimal watering, making it a favorite for winter.

Caring for indoor plants during winter is about creating a stable environment that mimics their natural conditions. By paying close attention to their sunlight, water, temperature, and nutrient needs and selecting the right varieties, you can maintain a thriving indoor garden that enhances the ambiance of your lake home. For more design inspiration, visit Lake Homes Lifestyles.

Whiteboard Topics: 5 Reminders About the 2025 Lake Real Estate Market

Heading into 2025, you might consider buying or selling a lake home. Glenn S. Phillips, CEO of Lake Homes Realty, shares 5 helpful reminders about lake real estate in 2025.

  1. Price Includes Location. Many lake home buyers, particularly first-time buyers, don’t realize the impact of the lake location on price. You may not be able to get the same amount of house at the lake as you would in your neighborhood because of the location.
  2. “Sellable” Inventory is Limited. Over the last several months, the number of homes listed for sale has increased, and there’s also a lot of demand. However, since these homes have been sitting on the market, they aren’t appropriately priced. Many sellers are listing at aspirational prices to get a lottery ticket price. This means “sellable,” or appropriately priced, inventory is actually limited.
  3. Prices Are Roughly At Peak. Throughout 2024, price appreciation became fairly limited. Lake home prices aren’t expected to significantly rise or drop.
  4. Discretionary Product. Nobody has to buy a lake home for shelter. Unlike typical residential property, buyers can wait until they find what they want. This is also true for sellers. Lake home sellers generally aren’t in a rush to sell, so they can hold onto the property longer.
  5. Niche Expert Agents Matter. Lake homes come with different contingencies that primary residential properties don’t have. Additionally, discretionary lake home buyers come from cities and states away. Expert lake agents can navigate this market and expose homes to nationwide buyers.

Lake real estate can be a tricky market to navigate and understand. With these tips, you’ll be better prepared to buy or sell your lake home in 2025. Visit lakehomes.com to connect with expert lake agents who are ready to help you navigate this market.

Whiteboard Topics: 5 Mistakes Made by Lake Home Sellers

Selling your lake home is a big deal, so you’ll want to do it right. Glenn Phillips, CEO of Lake Homes Realty, discusses 5 mistakes made by lake home sellers.

  1. What Seller Paid for the Property. Similar to stocks, you often can’t sell your lake home for exactly what you bought it for. The buyer doesn’t care about how much you paid for the house years ago.
  2. Price of Listed (i.e. Unsold) Homes. If the listed homes were priced right, they would be sold homes. When these homes sit for a while, it should be a warning about the price. Your neighbors aren’t getting that number, so it’s unlikely you will, too.
  3. Seller’s Blood, Sweat, and Tears. Oftentimes, sellers get caught up in what they’ve done to the property or the memories they have there. However, buyers aren’t interested in those things; they care about the house’s value, according to them. In fact, sellers often intend to remove additions to the home the buyer made, creating negative value.
  4. Outlier Sales. When a home sells for a fantastic price, sellers often want to get that price themselves. However, the price alone doesn’t tell the whole story of that transaction. There could be things like closing costs, additional property, and more that the price included that make the price deceptive.
  5. Taking Offers Personally. Even if the “low” offer is fair, but under the listed price, you can’t get offended by it. A low offer is better than no offers. Low offers open the opportunity for discussion about prices that no offers don’t allow for. Keep the discussion going, and try to land that transaction.

Lake home sellers can often make mistakes when they aren’t familiar with lake property. Using these tips can help guide you to a better transaction. Visit lakehomes.com to connect with expert lake agents ready to guide you through the lake market.