When selling a lake home, everyone wants the best offer. Sometimes, you might see signs or billboards from other real estate companies mentioning a guaranteed offer. You also might wonder if this is something Lake Homes Realty offers. Glenn Phillips, CEO of Lake Homes Realty, provides his insight into why this isn’t something Lake Homes Realty provides.
“Guaranteed Offer” Does Not Equal “Full Price Offer”: A lot of times, when you see something claiming it has a guaranteed offer, it doesn’t typically mean the full price offer. That’s not to say you won’t get a guaranteed price; however, it usually isn’t the number you were thinking you’d get.
Fine Print Matters: This might seem like a really good thing from a different brokerage. However, you need to read the fine print and see what it truly entails. Having a set number in mind and walking away with something completely different could be a possibility. This is why it’s crucial to understand the logistics of what will take place with these kinds of offers.
Wholesalers: More times than not, wholesalers are typically where these offers stem from. It might not necessarily be the brokerage itself. Similarly to loan officers, these packages are made as one can be with a mortgage package.
Good for Sellers or “Bait-n-Switch?”: This type of offer might be something that could be beneficial for you. But you should look into what it is. Sometimes these offers can be set so that if you don’t sell in a certain amount of time, the offer is changed. This can result in financial disappointment.
Time Frame: If you’re looking to sell in a rather quick time frame, you might want to think about it a little more. The guaranteed offer could be based on how long it would take to sell your home. So make sure you consider how long you’re willing to wait.
Our Focus: Help Sellers Meet Financial Goals: At Lake Homes Realty, one of the goals is to really help the seller and whatever their goal might be. When it comes to guaranteed offers, there really isn’t a way to achieve that.
Some people might be okay with guaranteed offers. However, if you’re someone who wants to maximize your profit, that’s what Lake Homes Realty is here to help with. If you would like to start the selling process or get more information, reach out to a lake agent today!
When it comes to selling a lake home, one way to get it seen more is through marketing. There are many different ways that Lake Homes Realty can offer valuable marketing efforts. Sometimes, different phrases, such as “webpage views,” along with other terms, can be misconstrued. Check out what Glenn Phillips, CEO of Lake Homes Realty, has to say regarding this topic.
“Webpage View”: Back in the earlier days of the internet, this used to be called a hit. Essentially, this means someone clicking on your property and viewing it on the website. If you were to leave the website and look again later, that’s another view.
Not All “Webpage Views” Are Equal (Audience Matters!): Something that is almost more important is the amount of engagement you are getting. The website is there to help drive people to your property and maximize the number of people aware of your property. Getting more views and having no interaction isn’t the end goal.
High Number Can Reveal Overpricing: If you are getting a high number of page views but no traction, that typically means the property is overpriced. If the property is just sitting online, racking up views without engagement isn’t something you want to work towards.
Low Number Can Reveal Overpricing: On the Lake Homes Realty website, you can view the properties without even clicking on one. Some people might see how high the property is priced and not even bother clicking on it. This results in those low page view numbers.
While web page views are important and can show some insight, they can also be deceptive. At the end of the day, you’re really looking to find that good middle ground between engagement and web page views and many agents at Lake Homes Realty would love to help you achieve these results. Reach out to one today and see what they can do!
Have you ever discovered a poison ivy rash after a long day of gardening at your lake house? As nature lovers, we’ve all been there. While poison ivy might first come to mind when you think of poisonous plants, there are many other hazardous plants to look out for. To avoid these plants, it’s crucial to recognize them. We spoke with experts in the gardening industry for advice on identifying hazardous plants, especially those common at lake houses.
Let’s start with the basics. Hazardous plants produce toxins as a survival mechanism to keep herbivores at bay. The poison does no damage to the plant itself because once the poison is stored, it becomes “locked away” in cell vacuoles. It only affects those who touch or try to ingest it.
However, not all toxic plants are the same. The toxin levels differ based on the plant, and only some parts of the plant may be poisonous. For example, a rhubarb plant’s stem can be eaten (it makes excellent pie) but its leaves are poisonous to ingest. Further, some plants are toxic but medicinal in smaller doses. Doctors have used the poisonous foxglove plant to create Digoxin, a heart failure medication.
Most people have toxic plants in their yard, even if they don’t know it. Some well-known poisonous plants in the U.S. include oleander (its poison is the subject of the movie White Oleander), angel’s trumpets, foxglove, milkweed, poison sumac, poison oak, wild parsnip, and pencil cactus. As a caveat, these plants, which can be hazardous, are not all bad. For example, the milkweed plant is vital to the livelihood of the endangered monarch butterfly. So if you plant it in your yard to attract these beautiful insects, be sure to keep it away from kids and pets. However, some hazardous plants are more common in lake areas. Derek Gaughan, owner of Prince Gardening, names four to look out for.
The first is hemlock or poison hemlock. Hemlock is famous for causing Socrates’ death, and once ingested, it’s usually too late for treatment. Poison ivy is also incredibly common among lake homes and cabins. Similarly, stinging nettles, identifiable based on their hairy leaves that embed into the skin, are found in wooded areas and streams. Finally, daffodils are also hazardous. “However,” Gaughan clarifies, “this is more dangerous to pets who may ingest it than humans.”
Hazardous plants differ depending on your lake area’s climate and soil type. For this reason, the U.S.D.A. Hardiness Zones tool is especially useful. This resource helps you determine which plants are most likely to thrive in your area of the country. Whether you’re in zones 1-3, 4-6, or 7-9, you’ll be at risk for a unique set of hazardous plants. “When it comes to identifying toxic plants, you don’t have to know all of the toxic plants in the world,” says Gregory Birch, owner of Gardens of Bacchus. “Instead, you should spend time familiarizing yourself with the toxic plants in the regions where your lake house is. These are the plants that pop up unexpectedly.”
Because hazardous plants have overlapping characteristics, they’re hard to identify. Derek Gaughn recommends searching for your state on the USDA’s Agricultural Research Service. Additional tools include the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s brochure and Greenbelly’s guide to identifying poisonous plants. Using these resources, Emma from Garden Zoo concludes that “the best way to identify hazardous plants is to familiarize yourself with pictures of the varieties common to your area.”
Additionally, some rules of thumb can help you identify hazardous plants. For instance, many poisonous leaves have a waxy sheen to help them create toxins. If you notice this sheer coating, avoid the plant. It’s also important to avoid brightly colored berries. Finally, the old “leaves of three? Let it be” aphorism helps identify poison ivy.
To take an active approach and prevent these hazardous plants from growing, planting native flowers and plants is helpful. Mowing frequently will also discourage hazardous plants from growing. However, if you do discover problematic plants, you can take a few different approaches.
Derek Gaughan recommends treating them with an herbicidal spray containing 2,4-Dichlorophenoxacetic acid. Although chemical sprays are effective, Dan Bailey, president of WikiLawn, advises using something organic if possible. “Many of the commonly-used chemicals (Roundup’s formula, for example) can also do significant damage to your lawn,” he warns. Another intervention is cutting poisonous plants off from the sun and water so they’ll die on their own.
When removing hazardous plants, take necessary precautions by wearing thick boots, long sleeves and pants, and gloves. Afterward, wash your hands thoroughly, and don’t touch your face. If you accidentally touch the plant, the CDC recommends immediately rinsing your skin with rubbing alcohol, degreasing soap, and water. For itches, use an antihistamine as directed.
Although your yard may not be a total Little Shop of Horrors situation, it’s best to stay vigilant about hazardous plants. From us at Lake Homes Lifestyles, we hope your garden thrives this summer!
Living life at the lake is something a lot of people love or want to experience. While this is true, you might be seeing more and more people selling their lake properties. Why is this? There are a few reasons why lake homeowners are selling. Glenn Phillips, CEO of Lake Homes Realty, has the answer to this question.
Age-Related: Owning a lake property can become something that involves a lot of maintenance and upkeep. At a certain point in life, you might not want to fool with those things anymore. That’s not to say you didn’t enjoy and get the most out of the lake home.
Life-Style Changes: You might have had the lake home when the kids were younger, and now some of the family has moved away. Lifestyle changes can even lead to interest changes. Many life events or changes can alter the amount of time you spend at the lake compared to how much you once did.
Financial Opportunity: If you’re looking for time to get a good return on your investment, selling might be something that is being considered. This point is usually a more practical one in comparison. However, at the end of the day, if it’s something you’re wanting to do, now’s a great time to do so.
If you’re thinking of selling or it’s been on your mind, consider where you might fall in terms of these 3 points. More than likely, it will be one, if not multiple. Like always, the lake market experts at LakeHomes.com are willing to help and give advice. Reach out to one of them today.
As the 2024 Summer Olympics commences in a few days, why watch when you and your loved ones can join in on the excitement? While not everyone can travel to Paris, you can bring the Olympic games to your own lake! With a bit of creativity and organization, you can transform your lake into a hub of thrilling activities. Here’s a guide to hosting your lakefront Olympics, featuring games and activities that guests can enjoy both on and around the water.
Start your Lake Olympics with a community kickoff that captures the essence of the games. Gather family, friends, and neighbors for an opening ceremony with music, dance, and even a symbolic lighting of a homemade Olympic torch. This inclusive start sets the stage for a day of fun competition inspired by the grandeur of the 2024 Paris Olympics.
Let’s first design a diverse lineup of events that will keep everyone entertained. From traditional Olympic sports to quirky lake-themed games, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Here are some fun ideas to get you started:
Paddleboard Relay Races – In the spirit of the upcoming Paris Olympics, divide participants into teams and have them race across the lake on paddleboards. This fun and challenging event tests balance and teamwork, guaranteeing lots of laughter and excitement.
Floating Obstacle Course – Create a floating obstacle course using inflatable platforms, buoys, and floating hoops. Participants navigate the course, jumping, climbing, and swimming their way to the finish line, reminiscent of an Olympic adventure challenge.
Water Polo – Set up a water polo match in a section of the lake. Teams compete to score goals by throwing a ball into the opposing team’s net, emulating the fast-paced and exciting nature of Olympic water polo.
Open Water Swimming Race – Establish a designated swimming course in the lake for an open water race. Swimmers compete over a set distance, showcasing their endurance and speed.
Rowing Regatta – Host a rowing regatta with teams competing in traditional rowing boats. This event captures the essence of Olympic rowing, emphasizing teamwork, strength, and synchronization.
Water Bucket Relay – Organize a water bucket relay where teams race to fill a larger container using smaller buckets. Participants run to the water, fill their buckets, and then race back to pour the water into their team’s container. The team that fills their container first wins. This event combines speed, teamwork, and a refreshing splash, making it a perfect addition to your Lake Olympics.
Tug-of-War – Get teams together for a classic tug-of-war challenge. This simple yet exhilarating game is a great way to foster team spirit and camaraderie among participants, much like the team sports in Paris.
Volleyball – Set up a net on the sand and host a thrilling beach volleyball tournament. Teams compete in matches, showcasing their skills in serving, spiking, and diving for the ball. With the beautiful lake as a backdrop, participants and spectators alike can enjoy the excitement and energy of this classic sport.
Flag Football – Create a field on the lake for a lively game of flag football. Teams compete to score touchdowns by pulling the flags from their opponents’ belts instead of tackling. This fast-paced, non-contact sport is perfect for the sandy shoreline and encourages teamwork, strategy, and friendly competition.
Water Balloon Dodgeball – Set up a dodgeball game using water balloons. Participants must avoid being hit while trying to eliminate their opponents, adding a refreshing twist to the traditional game.
Hosting the Olympics at your lake is a fantastic way to bring your community together for a day of fun, fitness, and unforgettable experiences. With these engaging activities and a positive, upbeat atmosphere, your Lake Olympics will be a highlight for everyone involved. Let the games begin and let your lake shine as brightly as the lights of Paris!
The band TLC says in their famous song “Don’t go chasing waterfalls.” But as lake lovers, we simply can’t help seeking out these natural wonders. One of the best parts about living near nature is discovering breathtaking sights. However, traveling to Niagara Falls in New York is unnecessary to witness incredible falling waters. No matter what region of the country you live in, there’s an impressive waterfall on a lake near you. Check out the best waterfalls near lakes with listings on Lake Homes Realty!
Located on the Cumberland River, which flows into Lake Cumberland, these falls are one of the top destinations for hikers in the south. It’s no wonder why, as Cumberland Falls is the largest waterfall in the state of Kentucky. On its 125-foot curtain, water tumbles 68 feet into the river. Its impressive size helped it earn the title “Niagara of the South.” But that’s not the only special quality of these falls. The Cumberland Falls are famous for producing lunar rainbows or “moonbows.” In this rare phenomenon, a rainbow is formed by the sun’s light reflecting off the moon’s surface. The moonbow at Cumberland Falls is one of two predictable moonbows in the world.
Near Lake Superior in Michigan, Tahquamenon Falls is the second most voluminous waterfall in the eastern U.S., behind only Niagara Falls. Every second, 50,000 gallons of water plunge 50 feet into the river. However, despite its size and power, the falls’ most noticeable quality might actually be its color. Since the river drains from cedar swamps, the tannins give off a brown hue, hence the fall’s nickname, “Root Beer Falls.” As one of the country’s best waterfalls, it certainly deserves a visit. Further, this waterfall isn’t frozen in the winter, so you can enjoy it year-round!
You don’t want to be caught standing on the edge of Whitewater Falls. It towers more than 400 feet, making it the tallest waterfall east of Mississippi. The incredible view is even better in autumn when changing leaves outline the cascading falls. Located on the Whitewater River which flows into Lake Jocassee, South Carolina, this waterfall is surrounded by plenty of mountains and hiking trails such as the Foothills Trail to explore.
Many people vacation in Pennsylvania’s Poconos Mountains for the skiing, hiking, and scenic views. These mountains are also home to one of the country’s best waterfalls, Bushkill Falls. This series of eight total waterfalls is secluded in the forest, accessible by hiking trails and bridges. While you’re there, take a trip to the nearby Delaware River, home of George Washington’s iconic Revolutionary War crossing.
In addition to being the subject of a well-known Alan Jackson song, the Chattahoochee River in Georgia is also home to this impressive waterfall. Wedged in the middle of the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest, Anna Ruby Falls is surrounded by several hiking trails, so you can enjoy a full day of nature on your way to the falls. One trail, Lion’s Eye Trail, has signs marked in braille for those with visual impairments. If you’re looking for a lake home near Chattahoochee, check out Lake Lanier and West Point Lake. From there, you can easily make day trips to this gorgeous forest.
Which of the best waterfalls on our lakes are you most likely to visit?
Are you selling your lake home anytime soon? If so, you may be thinking about the different costs that could go into it. One specific thing is different compensations for agents. More specifically, buyer agent compensation. Should you just offer it? Glenn Phillips, CEO of Lake Homes Realty, offers insight into this topic.
It Depends: Buyer agent compensation isn’t something that is required. At the end of the day, it comes down to whether you feel like you should offer it. However, you have to think about it because there are situations where you might want to, and in some cases, you might not.
What Is Your Goal In Selling? You want to get the most money you can, but there should be more thought put into that. Something you really should strive for is getting the maximum number of buyers who are capable of paying for the price you’re looking for.
3 Groups of Buyers: A) Can Pay Their Agent – These are typically the buyers who will be paying cash for the house. Many of these buyers are comfortable paying for services and have usually signed the Buyer’s Agent Agreement. B) Can Not (or Will Not) Pay Their Agent – This group usually doesn’t have the means to pay that compensation. They often expect the seller to compensate in some form or fashion. C) Can and Will Pay a Portion – They might pay a little bit or they might end up paying a lot. This group will typically be seen doing the most negotiating.
Suggested Goal: Best Net $: The end goal should be what will ultimately net you the best return on your investment (your lake home). Something that can play into this is pricing accordingly. Expanding your pool of buyers might also be a factor.
If you’re planning on selling your property soon and need assistance, don’t hesitate. Reach out to one of our lake expert agents at LakeHomes.com. They are always willing to help and can answer any questions you still might have!
You’ve decided to finally buy that lake home you’ve always wanted. The only issue is that you don’t know how to go about it. How do you navigate this market? What goes into buying a lake home? Well, now there is no need to stress over these issues. Lake Homes Realty’s CEO, Glenn Phillips, goes over how you can buy a lake home like a pro!
Investor or “I Want What I Want”: What is your mindset going into the buying process? If you’re thinking like an investor, you’re more likely to think of things like ROI. Thinking as an investor or in the sense of making money will bring in different values during buying. On the other end, you might have an idea of exactly what you want. These 2 different spectrums are ways that you can approach this financial aspect of buying.
Know Your “Number”: Before going into anything, you should know what you’re willing to spend. Being comfortable knowing what number you’re wanting to spend will help alleviate future issues. People who buy off emotion or do not give a lot of thought can lead to feelings of regret.
Use a Lake Expert Agent: Having an agent who knows the market, the area, the lake, etc. is more valuable than you know. These agents know the nuances of the lake homes in their area. If you don’t already have a lake expert agent, check out someone from LakeHomes.com. They are some of the best out there and would love to help!
Do the Due Diligence: Things such as getting surveys and home inspections—all these things you might think you can pass on, you can’t. Not doing your due diligence can lead to mistakes, issues, and a plethora of other unwanted things.
Keep Options Open: You’re allowed things you won’t budge on. However, you need to keep the options open because something could come up.
Buying a lake home like a pro doesn’t need to be a stressful or difficult task. The biggest thing to remember is these 5 points. If you follow these, it will make your experience play out a lot smoother. Don’t forget to check out the list of agents at LakeHomes.com/agents who are ready to help you!
The lake real estate market is an interesting one. Unlike your typical market for real estate, this market is more niche. You also might be wondering if it is a market for sellers or buyers. Questions like these are very typical when it comes to this market specifically. Luckily, Lake Homes Realty’s CEO, Glenn Phillips, has the answer to this question.
Seller’s Market: Command Higher Prices – Typically, a seller’s market means that the seller can command this higher price. When this occurs, there is usually limited inventory and a high volume of buyers. With this type of market, the seller has more of an advantage.
Buyer’s Market: More Options – Opposite of the seller’s market, the buyer’s market has fewer people looking. During this time, a lot of sellers are wanting to appeal to the buyer. When this type of market happens, the buyer has the ability to offer a lower price with more options.
Pricing: Supply and Demand – The main factor in determining which market we’re in comes down to supply and demand. Is there a higher number of houses with fewer buyers, or less inventory and more buyers? In more recent years, there has been a decline in inventory. This was around the Covid-19 years, which created a seller’s market. Things have begun to change due to less demand. That’s not to say it isn’t still there; it’s just not like the frenzy that it once was.
Increase in Inventory (Sort of) – In the past couple of months, there has been an increase in lake real estate and primary residential real estate.
“Phantom” Inventory – There are still sellers today who think we’re in a strong seller’s market. This has caused them to overprice their homes, leading to the homes sitting on the market.
“Stalemate” Market – We’re not technically in one market or the other, more so this “stalemate” market. This ultimately means there’s an equilibrium between supply and demand.
It all boils down to: which market are we still in? Truth be told, neither. We’re in an area where the sellers can have a little bit of an advantage if they price their homes appropriately. If you’re still curious about the market or have other real estate questions, head over to LakeHomes.com. You’re bound to find an agent in your area who is happy to help out.
