Tag: lake life

Forget the Fancy Bass Boats, Get a Pontoon Boat!

Posted on Glenn S. Phillips

You will never find a better boat to relax on. If you combine the floor plan and the amazingly luxurious seating, it is almost like having a living room on the water. A pontoon that measures 25 feet is able to carry 15 people, and at times even more very comfortably.

Pontoon Boat
Pontoon Boat

The same size of other boats of different styles does not include the same amount of space for the passengers. You would have to squeeze by each other when trying to move. It is more like riding in a car. With pontoon boats, you have floor space to walk, barbeque, and host parties.

If you are out for some sun, you can leave the top off, or if you are one that does not like to be in direct sunlight, leave the top on. The boat is extremely versatile when having fun out on the lake.

There are numerous models that include great features like a galley, live well, recliners, coolers, and a table to eat at or play cards on. They also include a ladder from the water to the floor. This way you can dive into the water and climb back up when it is time to rest.

Newer models also include stereo systems that offer external audio jacks, which allow the hook up of an mp3 player or iPod. Some even have USB ports.

There is a lot of space that will enable you to store water toys and other personal items. You can even purchase a camping enclosure to allow you to spend the night out on the water. There is even models that offer portable toilet with a privacy wall. Here are events that you can host on a pontoon boat:

With a pontoon boat, the options are endless. Imagine being able to spend an entire day that wraps up swimming, picnics, barbeque, music, and more all in one outing. The fun is overwhelming and the memories will last a lifetime.

Measurements Versus Passengers

If you are unsure of what size pontoon boat you will need, here is a guide to help you. Remember to include the typical people you take on your outings, for example; your kids. Then make sure there is extra room for other family members or friends.

  • 2-6 People: 18-20 Feet
  • 6-10 People: 22-24 Feet
  • 10 or more People: 24 Feet or Larger

Activities

Here is a list of activities you can plan for you outings. They will depend on what type of outing or event you will be hosting and how many people will be passengers on the boat.

  • Swimming
  • Fishing
  • Cards
  • Barbeques
  • Cocktails
  • Skiing
  • Tubing
  • Camping

No matter how many people you have with you, you will be sure to have fun. Ensure that you purchase a pontoon boat that will accommodate your entire family, plus a few more to make sure you can hold small get-togethers whenever you like.

 

7 Reasons People Love Lake Living

Posted on Glenn S. Phillips

There are two kinds of people: one that wants to live on a lake and the second is those who do. If you are wondering why lake living is so wonderful, then keep on reading. By the end of this list, you’ll wish your home was located next to a lake too.

1. Lake Fun

Lake Fun: Swimming

You will never run out of things to do! Lake living has its perks, and water activities are definitely on the top of the list. The lake will provide you with an avenue to have fun or to entertain the best events throughout the year. Here are just some of the activities you can do when owning a lake property:

  • Swimming
  • Kayaking
  • Sailing
  • Fishing
  • Boating

2. Relaxation

Woman relaxing on boat enjoying the view

There are studies that support the claim that water provides relaxation. Of course, it is quite obvious that it does. Remember those days when you visited the lake, all those comforting feelings and how you felt so happy?

The lake can provide this on a daily basis when you actually live on the lake. After a long day’s work, coming home to see the peaceful and serene visuals the lake offers instantly relaxes the homeowner. Imagine sitting on the patio and just soaking in the sun peering at peacefulness.

3. Privacy

Homes that are located on lots by the lake are typically more isolated from the public. If you are further from or have greenery blocking your neighbors; this means that you have more privacy.

You also have matured trees and nature surrounding your home that acts as a natural privacy “fence” that offers shielding from roads, neighbors, and people passing by.

4. Traffic

Autumnal road with colorful trees

Traffic can be annoying, especially when you live on a busy road or near a highway.

The traffic noises are intrusive and if you have animals or children, it can be quite dangerous. Say goodbye to all those semi-trucks, construction vehicles, and public buses.

5. Wildlife

Duck with baby ducklings following

All life needs water to sustain themselves. You live on a lake, so all of those beautiful and majestic animals share in your home.

You will see geese, ducks, deer, and so many other creatures of the wild.

6. Entertaining

Fourth of July at the lake party

You can host cookouts, birthday parties, annual summer parties, and so much more at your lake house.

You can even throw a bonfire party when the seasons begin to change that involves an overnight get-together where your guests can swim, fish, and roast marshmallows.

7. Community

Community of lake homeowners paddleboarding together

In this area, people tend to build very strong bonds with each other. You have a common bond: the love for the outdoors. It is extremely easy to get to know your neighbors when you spend time on your dock. You will pass by each other on your boats or go paddleboarding together. It is not like a typical neighborhood where you will just wave to each other whenever you get your mail.

Living on the lake is an amazing lifestyle. It is not just a home location. You will love your community and everything a lake has to offer. Choosing to live on a lake is a choice that is easy to make, and there are lakes to fit every desired lifestyle. If you think living on a lake may be the right choice for you, take a look at our homes for sale across the nation.

Lake Living: Simple Picnic Recipes

Posted on Glenn S. Phillips

Picnics are wonderful when planned well; the selection of the food that you want to take will set the mood for the trip. Here are some ideas that will help you enjoy your outdoor meals. Try out these picnic recipes at the lake as the warm weather approaches!

At the Lake

PicnicThere is nothing better than a warm and sunny day at the lake with your friends and family. Your selection for food should be something that stays cool all day. You can have hot meals too, but it’s better to have some cold sandwiches just in case.

Let’s help you select the perfect lakeside meal.

The easiest way to plan a picnic is to utilize both sides and main dishes that are best served cold so that everything can be stored in a cooler. For side dishes and snacks, you may want to consider the following:

  • Watermelon (thin slices)
  • Sliced cucumbers or tomatoes
  • Oranges and Apples
  • A gallon of your favorite beverage

For the cold entree:

Spicy Cold Chicken Sandwich

Serves 4

Ingredients

Dice a 2 pounds of chicken and add two teaspoons of pepper and one tablespoon of brown sugar, 1 teaspoon of salt, a generous amount of olive oil and mix together. Have bread, cheese, and mayo available to make 10 sandwiches.

Directions

  • Heat your oven to 400° F.
  • Put chicken in the oven and roast it for 45 minutes
  • Let the chicken cool
  • Pre-make sandwiches for the picnic

Finger Food Plate

Picnic foodIf you are more inclined to create a collection of snack foods for your picnic, you may want to try the following:

  • Oven Roasted Corn – Bake in the husk at 400 for 30 minutes. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Great, even when chilled.
  • Create a spread of cheeses and match with crackers
  • Apples, pears, grapes, strawberries, blueberries and Kiwis
  • Lots of chocolates

Be Creative

Just about any meal you can imagine can be made into the perfect picnic, just prepare it in a way that can be kept cool for a few hours. With spring just around the corner, use these picnic recipes as jumping points for great meals on the go!

How to Grow an Herb Garden in Your Kitchen

Posted on Glenn S. Phillips

Herb gardenThere are many reasons why people chose to grow kitchen herb garden. They produce organic and healthy harvests and are cheap as well. They are easy to grow and all they need is sunlight and warmth. In case your kitchen lacks direct sunlight, you might place your herb in other rooms as well. Now, we’re going to give you a brief explanation on how to start your own kitchen herb garden.

The first step of growing kitchen herbs is deciding what plants we want to grow. The answer is simple; start with whatever you prefer to eat. Search on internet to find out what seeds or seedlings produce your favorite dish, and buy them at your local gardener.

The second step is to choose whether you need seeds or seedlings. You can buy seed packets, or buy herb seedling from local shops. If your choice is seedlings, make sure that the plant is not rootbound by checking the plant’s bottom.

Third step is to choose the seeds/seedlings that you want to buy. The most used seeds are Basil, Chives, Cilantro, Mint, Oregano, Parsley, etc. Ask your local gardener or look up online which one would be a better choice to produce the harvests you desire.

What you’ll need:

Soil: Mix soil, moss, and perlite to produce a high quality soil for your herb garden. You can also buy this mixed soil in most garden stores for a reasonable price.

Herb containerContainers: You will need lots of containers to put your herbs in. Look in your house if you have some unused containers. If not, check the garden stores, they will definitely have them. When you find them, create drainage holes in its sides before planting seeds/seedling.

Sunlight: The most important factor in growing herb garden is providing enough sunlight for them to be able to grow. They must be exposed to sun between four to six hours every day. Less light will most likely prevent growth.

Now that you have everything that you need, let’s get started.

  • Place seeds in water for about two to four hours before planting them in soil. This will fill them with water they will struggle to find when they initially get planted.
  • Fill all containers with soil up to one inch below the rim. Plant seeds approximately one fourth of inch below the top of the soil. Putting them lower will most likely prevent them from ever reaching the surface whereas putting them higher will most likely decrease the amount of nutrients they can take.
  • Place the container in a place out of direct sun light until it starts to grow and water it often. Note however, that different plants require different amounts of water per day.
  • When you see the herb growing out, move the container to an area with sunlight exposure between four to six hours a day. Continue to water them accordingly.
  • Large numbers of seeds growing in one container is not a good thing; it is actually dangerous for them. They will all feed from the same soil and will most likely lack nutrition. Thus, if several seeds grow, remove a few of them to allow the other seeds to grow. Be careful while you are removing the seeds, you might accidentally damage other seeds as well.
  • If planting seedlings, bury the roots in the soil and put it immediately in the sunny area.
  • When herbs are grown, harvest them. Leave the sprigs of every herb so they will grow back again so you will have herbs in the future as well.

By following these steps, you will create a kitchen herb garden and start growing your own healthy food.

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.