Tag: lake life

Lake Living and Retirement

Posted on Glenn S. Phillips

Most people do not have a clue what to expect when they retire. They work most of their lives and then, well, there’s nothing to do. That isn’t necessarily the case. You must first prepare yourself mentally for retirement.

It is important to stay busy and take the time to do what you love the most, no matter what that is. Retirement is the time to do the things you simply did not have time for when you were working. It is time to get mentally prepared and enjoy life!

Stay Active

staying active during retirementNow is not the time to get lazy, stay active! Get outside and do what you love to do. Some people spend more time on the lake while others work on their golf game. Now is the time to really dive into the things you love doing most.

But the most important thing to do is keep moving. Studies have shown that people who stay active during retirement live longer and healthier lives. Don’t be a couch potato, get out there!

Volunteer or Get a Part-time Job

A lot of people find it hard to not be working. This is understandable because most people spend a very large chunk of their lives working. If you are one of these types of people, you are in luck. Many retirees take up volunteer work.

Depending on what you did for a living previously, you may be able to put those professional skills to work for a local charity. You could volunteer at a homeless shelter or an animal rescue center. These organizations are almost always looking for people to help out and it can be very rewarding.

If you are looking for extra spending cash and just can’t get out of the habit of working, you can always get a part-time job. Maybe you have always wanted to work at a library or a coffee shop, there is no time like retirement to discover something else that you might love.

Hobbies

readingOkay, you don’t have to be on the go. Some hobbies don’t require a whole lot of physical activity, but will help prepare you on a mental level. Hobbies such as reading, writing, knitting, painting, fishing, and a number of others are all things you can do from home or in a group setting.

Check your local libraries and see if there is a reading group you can join or even a group of knitters to work with.

Retirement Should Be A Blast

Retirement can be so much fun, but most people are not mentally prepared for it. Staying active and doing what you love can help you in living a long and happy life. Set goals for yourself and do some things you have never had the opportunity to do before. There is no time like the present!

Join Us At The 2015 Atlanta Boat Show

Posted on Staff

atlanta boat show presented by progressiveIt’s that time of the year again! The Atlanta Boat Show runs from January 15th through the 18th, and we would love to see you there!

Lake Homes Realty staff and real estate agents will be available throughout the entire show and look forward to discussing all things lake living!

Considering a lake home?

If you are thinking about buying a lake home, we want to make the process as easy as possible!

LakeHomes.com now has over 15,000 properties for sale across 105 lakes. We will have local, specialized lake agents from states across the South including Alabama, Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, and Tennessee!

Our agents know the ins and outs of their lake market and will be more than willing to help you find a lake property that best fits your needs!

Tell us about your experience with Lake Homes!

Have you used LakeHomes.com to find a property or used a Lake Homes Realty real estate agent? We want to hear about your experience! Stop by the booth and tell us your story! We will be glad to share a token of our appreciation!

The show.

The Atlanta Boat show is an annual event and is a great place with something for the whole family. For the kids there will be a surfing simulator, a kids sea park, and a chance to meet Dora the Explorer.

For mom and dad there are fishing seminars, home improvement and DIY demonstrations, sailing tutorials, and of course, boats!

The schedule.

The show will be 11am-9PM this Thursday and Friday, 10-am-9pm on Saturday, and 10am-6pm on Sunday. The event takes place at the Georgia World Congress Center, hall C.

Lake Homes Realty will be located in the same space as last year, in booth 332,

How to be the World’s Best Lake Neighbor

Posted on Glenn S. Phillips

No matter whether you are new to the area or you have lived alongside your lake for decades, it’s always important to be a good neighbor. You can choose your friends, but you can’t choose your family. Or, the people you live next to. Here are a few tips to make living on your lake a pleasant experience for everyone. And, to make you the world’s best lake neighbor!

• If you live in a neighborhood with a homeowners association (HOA), the board will help enforce some standards about house and lawn maintenance. Trash in the yard will not be allowed, and neither will that bright pink roof.

If you don’t live in an HOA, don’t allow old lawn mowers or boat parts to stack up in your front yard. Your storage shed should also be tucked away and out of sight so your yard will be presentable at all times.

• Pets are great, but usually only if they are yours! If you have a pet that likes to wander, you will want to find out what it needs and try to get that for them closer to home. A “catio”, otherwise known as an enclosed patio, gives your cat that chance for breathing the fresh outdoor air, but she won’t be able to go over to the neighbor and torment his Chihuahua.

If instead you have a dog prone to barking, it is a good time to learn how to redirect that energy through an obedience class.

• Welcome newcomers to the area with a gift basket, but with added lake flair. Include a lake map, a gift card to the local marina, a list of nearby service providers, and a personal note explaining the ins and outs of the area.

• Be cognizant of your neighbors when it comes to parking cars. If you have a number of cars in your family, you may wish to let the neighbors on either side of you know. It’s also a good habit if you are having a party or get together to make your neighbors aware of the increase in the number of cars for that event.

• Be a person. In this digital age, it’s easy to shoot a message saying “Happy Birthday” or “Congrats”, but instead, walk next door and deliver the message yourself. Doing things like this in person carries much more weight than a Facebook post, and your neighbor will be very appreciative of your simple actions.

• Are you the local expert angler? Offer to take newbies on a fishing trip to share all your fishing hot spots.

• If you build on your property make sure that you are aware of just how big your structure really is. A tall tower or treehouse meant to give the kids a great hideout may prevent your neighbors from seeing out one direction or another. And you certainly don’t want to obscure the view of the lake, since after all, that lake is the big reason you all moved there.

• One of the big things that neighbors often argue over is where the property lines are really located. It’s very important to get a proper assessment from your county planning or land use office. With GPS tracking now, getting the boundaries right is easy. With that document in hand, no neighbor can succeed in disputing just where that fence can go.

• Finally, if you really want to be the world’s best lake neighbor, organize neighborhood “dock parties.” Think of it just like a block party. Instead of celebrating on the block, celebrate up and down the neighborhood shorelines by boat and on each others docks! This is a great way to get everyone together and do something as a community. All while enjoying the lake that you all love!

In the end, the easy way to think of neighbor relations is to adhere to the golden rule – treat others as you would wish to be treated. Then, act accordingly.

Things to Consider For First Time Boat Buyers

Posted on Glenn S. Phillips

Boats of different kindsWhen you are looking for the ideal boat, there are lots of things to consider before you make the purchase.

A boat is a significant investment. You don’t want to squander your money on a boat that is not right or suitable for you. Buying a boat is not complicated either, but you do need to do your research and prepare before making your purchase.

So to help you, here are some things to consider as first time boat buyers:

The Type of Boat

The first thing you have to take care of is the actual type of boat that you will be using. This concerns the type of activities that you will be doing in your boat as well.

Will you be, for instance, sailing, fishing, skiing, or wakeboarding in your boat? Depending on how you answered, you may be looking for a sail boat, bass boat, pontoon, or something that meets in the middle.

The Brand of the Boat

There are thousands of manufacturers and models of boats in the market. Finding a suitable and reliable brand can be confusing for many people who are not affiliated with the market. Research about brands of boats is very important. This it will allow you to purchase a boat that is perfect for you.

Look at brochures and compare the prices of the boats online and read reviews about a particular brand or model of boat that you are considering before you seal the deal.

A Used or A Brand New Boat?

You will need to answer this question in order to purchase the right boat. This is generally associated with how much cash you are willing to spend on your boat.

A new boat will obviously cost you more money, but should not require as many repairs or maintenance costs. Used boats can be found at bargain prices and in good condition, but will usually require much more intensive shopping and research to ensure a good deal.

A Private Seller or A Dealer?

You will also have to consider this factor when you are purchasing a boat. Most people expect to pay less when dealing with a private seller. Dealers will add their own costs on top of the original price of the boat.

However, dealers are less likely to sell you a lemon without any issues, while securing a boat privately may end up with you having a boat that needs frequent repairs. Purchasing a boat from a dealer will also allow you to acquire a warranty for the boat. This option will not be afforded to you from a private seller.

The key point to remember for boat buyers is to put in the time and do your homework before making the purchase, every step of the way. From how you plan to use the boat, to expected prices, and even boat maintenance so you can check out your craft before you buy!

Enjoying the Lake in the Off Season

Posted on Glenn S. Phillips

On a lake, it is easy to find things to do on hot, summer days. Swimming, boating, skiing. The list is unlimited. But what about during the off season?

Forget about “winterizing” your lake home and staying away until spring. There are many things to do at a lake during the off season. Keep these activities in mind to enjoy your lake home year round!

Off season boatingBoating

Never underestimate the fun of a fast boat, but not the kind of watercraft into which you climb and speed away.

Consider giving an RC boat a try. Remote control boats are not just for children. There are plenty of models intended for “kids” of all ages.

Many are inexpensive and dependable, and some models are for those with a competitive streak requiring a small investment.

Whatever your level of interest, toss an RC boat into the cold waters during winter, grab that remote control, and prepare for a great time.

But why limit yourself to boats? The wide open spaces and low population at the lake during frosty months is the ideal time to try out RC planes as well.

Fishing

Fishing in the off seasonAlthough summer is the the season for fishing, committed anglers will tell you that fish bite in the cold months as well. Specifically bass and hybrids.

The lake waters are much more calm because it isn’t crowded. A good tip is to use a small crankbait. Target rocks or wood structures, moving along slowly.

The fish may be sluggish, but they still have to eat!

Eating 

Okay, so you don’t have to necessarily be at a lake to eat during the brisk seasons. But, there’s nothing like cooking a large pot of chili and lounging by the fire in the evenings at your cozy lake home.

After dinner, bundle up and take a night walk to the bank and admire the way the waters glitter, reflecting the moon in the clear, winter sky.

Or build an outdoor fire using a fire pit or within a circle of stones. Roast marshmallows and exchange fun conversation, or a ghost story or two.

Or watch the sun rise in the still quiet from the back porch with a steaming mug of coffee.

Hiking

Lake hikingAlthough many animals hibernate during the winter, there is still plenty of wildlife to observe on a walk down a winding trail.

Deer, rabbits, and foxes can be spotted year-round as well as brilliantly colored species of birds.

Don’t be surprised if you encounter types of birds that are not indigenous to the area as they take a rest from migration.

Majestic eagles can still be spotted in the winter, but may not be as numerous as they are in summer.

Shopping

Nearby towns often have fall craft shows, Thanksgiving festivals or Christmas parades. What a great way to spend time with family attending a community event involving winter holidays.

Local shops often have an eclectic blend of Christmas selections that would make great unique gifts.

While you’re out, choose a restaurant to warm up in and order a winter dish that normally wouldn’t be available in summer months.

Lake homes are not just for summer fun. There are numerous ways in which a lake home can be a pleasure during the winter. This winter start a few new traditions that will allow you to return to your wonderful lake home in the cooler months as well as the warm ones.

Value of My Home Is Rising … Do I Need More Homeowners Insurance?

Posted on Glenn S. Phillips

home value rising, home insuranceHome prices fluctuate considerably, often times leaving people to wonder whether or not they have adequate homeowners insurance coverage.

That’s especially true whenever home prices are on the rise around the country.

But just because the value of your home has risen recently doesn’t mean you need additional insurance coverage, as there are a number of things that play a role in determining the amount of coverage that you’ll really need. Continue reading “Value of My Home Is Rising … Do I Need More Homeowners Insurance?”

Boating Etiquette for Beginners

Posted on Glenn S. Phillips

Boating is a way of life for water lovers, which is why there are certain rules that must be followed to ensure everyone’s safety.

If you’re new to boating, here are some general boating etiquette tips & advice (for both passengers and pilots) you should be aware of to ensure passenger safety, both on and off the water.

Launching and Returning Your Boat

It’s important to launch and return your boat as efficiently as possible.  Other boaters will likely be waiting in or around the ramp or dock, so exercising discretion and care while launching or returning is critically important. Important rules to remember:

  • Become familiar with the procedures of a particular facility ahead of time
  • Prepare your boat by taking off tie-down straps and covers in an out-of-the-way place. Load coolers, tackle, and other gear ahead of time as well
  • Once you have launched, move quickly aside (but not hurriedly) to allow other boaters to do the same

When returning, tie up your boat on the opposite side of the dock so that other boaters may take off while you are retrieving your tow vehicle.

Marina Etiquette

Marina etiquette is an integral part of boating etiquette to pay attention to.  After refueling or loading your boat at the marina, move to a temporary docking station and park if you need to go inside for groceries or other items. Don’t keep others waiting while you take care of business. At the marina, you should also:

  • Keep your area clean and free of debris
  • Assist other boaters who are docking and de-boarding
  • Put carts and other equipment intended for common use back where it belongs when you are finished

Boating Safety On the Water

Boat wakes can cause damage to floating docks, can cause seawall damage, and have even thrown children off floating docks. Keep in mind that you are responsible for your own wake, and should be accountable for any damage you cause by it.

If your wake causes other boaters distress, knocking items (or people) off a dock, you could be held liable for damages or injuries. Be mindful of wake zones at all times and remain in compliance.

When overtaking a boat, allow for as much room as depth conditions allow for. Consider your wake, and slow your speed if necessary to ensure you don’t rock the other vessel. If that vessel is a sailboat, overtake it by passing astern to avoid blocking its wind. If you are the vessel being passed, slow your speed to a reasonable clip to allow the other boater to get around you safely.

Leave plenty of anchorage between yourself and other boaters, especially when carrying multiple passengers or playing loud music. Sound carries much farther on the water, and you want to avoid disturbing your neighbors if at all possible. Avoid traveling between a fishing boat and the bank, even if that watercraft does not appear to be moving.

Rules of Anchoring Your Boat

Boat anchorWhen first entering an anchorage, reduce your speed significantly so as not to create any wake at all. The rules of anchoring deem that the first person into the anchorage is the one who determines the swing radius. Mimic the leader in how you tie off and anchor, and use roughly the same amount of distance between boats.

These boating etiquette rules will go a long way toward ensuring your time on the water is as pleasant as possible. Boating consists of a tight-knit community of individuals, which is why good manners are so important.

How to Store & Maintain Your Personal Flotation Devices

Posted on Glenn S. Phillips
Life jackets laying on lake deck how to properly store personal flotation devices

One of the best safety measures that you can rely on while out on the water is the use of personal flotation devices (PFDs).

A personal flotation device, also referred to as a life jacket or life preserver, is a piece of equipment designed to assist a wearer, who may be either conscious or unconscious, to keep afloat.

In case you’re wondering, you can check your state’s PFD requirements here.

The bottom line is that PFD’s save lives. But, these devices will only work as they should if they are maintained and stored properly between uses.

Here are a few tips on how to store and maintain your personal flotation devices to be sure they’re always ready to go at a moment’s notice.

Cleaning Your Personal Flotation Device

Cleaning products
Photo courtesy of Pexels.

To keep PFDs clean, all you need to do is wipe them down with a solution of mild soap and warm water and then rinse thoroughly.  When cleaning stains from life jackets, use a stiff-bristled brush to gently scrub them away, but avoid using bleach, solvents, or other stain removers. The strong chemicals in these products can break down the materials PFDs are made from, thereby compromising their integrity. When exposed to saltwater, a quick rinse is needed to remove residue before allowing your device to dry.

After washing your PFD, hang it up in the open air away from direct sunlight and leave it there to dry thoroughly before storing it. Never place it in the dryer or near a heat source, as this could cause the vinyl or plastic components to warp or crack. Personal flotation devices should never be dry cleaned.

Inspecting Your Flotation Device

Kid inspecting life jacket
Photo courtesy of Pexels.

Flotation devices should be inspected on a regular basis, preferably before each use. Some of the things you should look for include:

  • Broken or damaged hardware
  • Ripped, torn, or missing webbing
  • Webbing that has become unattached
  • Mold or mildew
  • Rotted material
  • Large rips or tears
  • Oil spills, as this could affect buoyancy

Inflatable vests should also be inspected for:

  • Bobbins and pins that aren’t operating properly
  • Evidence of any corrosion on the CO2 cartridges
  • Nozzles that have not been punctured by the firing needle

It is also a good idea to manually inflate vests from time to time in order to check for leaks. Allow them to remain inflated overnight to be sure they are working properly, and repair or discard any that are not holding air as they should.

Storing PFDs

Boating laws typically require that PFD’s are readily accessible to all passengers onboard a vessel.  Make sure that your PFDs are actually taken out of the plastic wrapper they came in prior to use. The U.S. Coast Guard does not consider these devices to be ‘readily accessible’ if they must be unwrapped first. In addition, you must generally carry a throwable device onboard all watercraft that is 16 feet in length or longer.

When you’re not on the water, you should store flotation devices in a cool dry area with adequate ventilation. Avoid placing them in direct sunlight, as UV rays could prove harmful to them. Hang them up whenever possible rather than placing them on a shelf or the bottom of a locker. If hanging them up isn’t possible, make sure heavy objects are not placed on top of them, as this can also cause damage.

Personal flotation devices play an important part in keeping you safe on the water. Although it might seem trivial, properly cleaning, inspecting, and storing your PFD’s will go a long way to make absolutely sure that they are functional and in good working order for when you need them.

Five Reasons Your Lake Home Needs A Landline Phone

Posted on Glenn S. Phillips

Landline phoneThe Chicago Tribune estimates that around 40% of all homes nationwide no longer have a landline phone.

There are still plenty of good reasons to maintain a landline, especially if you own a lake home.

Here are four reasons why you should consider maintaining a landline phone at your lake home.

#1. Works when the power is out

Homes near the lake are susceptible to power outages, which is why it is especially important to install landline phones in them. Should the power go out, you’ll still have a means of communicating with others, and might be able to obtain help much sooner as a result.

#2. No bars, no worries

Cell and VoIP phones are notorious for poor or weak signals and static or tinny echo effects that make it difficult to carry on a conversation. These things can be an even bigger problem near a lake, especially if the lake is in a remote area.

Clarity is never a problem with a landline, so you never have to worry about a lack of cell coverage.

#3. Secure your privacy

The problem with wireless phones is the fact that they can easily be intercepted. This can happen in a number of ways, including:

  • The use of rogue cell phone towers to divert and capture data
  • “Bluejacking”, which involves sending unsolicited information to Bluetooth-enabled devices
  • Hacking of computers in order to “spy” on VoIP phone calls

Cell phone conversations may also be audible by others who are using ham radios, police scanners, and similar devices. Radio equipment like this is often found on boats, making it possible for someone to hear your conversation while cruising past your residence. Landline phones are less penetrable and are far more secure than cell phone technology.

#4.  Provides more reliability for security

Many alarm systems these days must be synced to a landline in order to work properly. The reason why so many security companies require this is because they know how dependable a landline actually is compared to a VOIP or digital phones, which are susceptible in power outages.

First responders can easily pinpoint your location because a landline transmits its address information directly to the dispatcher whenever you call 911.

In the age of cell phones and Internet, there are still plenty of good reasons to maintain a good old-fashioned landline phone, especially in lake homes. Whether you’re looking to buy a lake house or already live on the water, you can benefit from installing a traditional landline, even if you predominantly use other forms of communication.