Tag: lake living

Things to Consider Before Buying a Hot Tub

Posted on Staff

hot tub by the lakeSo you want a hot tub? Hot tubs are a great accessory to a backyard, especially at the lake, and can be beneficial in relieving stress and staying warm during the cold season.

They are, however, a high maintenance purchase. Before jumping in, take a look at these items to consider.

Budget

One of the biggest downsides to a hot tub is the cost. If money is no object, or you feel you’re getting a great deal on a hot tub for your home, that’s great.

However, the cost of the hot tub is not the only cost you need to be aware of.

There is the installation cost, which can reach a couple of hundred dollars depending on the company, the cost of the chemicals to maintain the hot tub, and of course the water and energy costs it takes to keep a hot tub running.

You may also need to purchase the pump that aids in both water power and heating separately from the tub model you pick out. Do your homework, and make sure the costs are feasible.

Amenities

Do you have a large group of friends that will be joining you in your new hot tub? Do you have back pains or need hydrotherapy (massage jets)? Do you want built in speakers, or a tri-fold cover?

What about interior and exterior lighting, ladders to get in and out of your hot tub, a cooler, a foot massager? Yes, these are all very real options when you a buy a top-of-the-line tub. Pick which amenities are most important to you, and be prepared to dish out cash accordingly.

Location, Location, Location

Before you buy an extra large hot tub with a tanning deck and attached umbrella, make sure you have the room in your backyard. Ensure that you can fit a tub and the installers’ equipment through any side gates or through a garage. Also, before installing the tub, you may want to lay a concrete foundation down to ensure the tub is level and will not be exposed to too many elements.

If you plant your hot tub on the ground, you will have to worry about the cold earth affecting the heating elements, degrading the base of the tub, or making it so your hot tub is full on one end and empty on the other. Consider above-ground or below-ground options, based on your backyard and location.

Smart Tub

If you can, select a newer model hot tub with an energy efficient pump. While this may only be a requirement for the hardcore eco-friendly family, it is really just smart money.

You may pay a little more up front to get a pump that requires only a little energy to effectively heat a large tub, and will monitor the water usage so you don’t have a heart attack when you get the water and power bill each month.

More effective models also help you get a larger tub with fewer upkeep costs.

Renting

Do you rent or plan to rent out your lake home when you are not using it? A hot tub can can be a big draw for those looking to vacation at the lake, especially during the cooler months when renters are harder to come by.

While this may help you attract renters, make sure that your home, including the hot tub, is covered by insurance. A hot tub is a big ticket item that can be very expensive to fix in the off chance you get some rowdy renters.

In the end, the hot tub you pick will hopefully last you years to come. Don’t forget to maintain the chemical balance in the hot tub, but most importantly enjoy the serene lake views as you relax in your new favorite place on your property!

 

3 Reasons You Have to Visit the Lake This Fall

Posted on Staff

lake view in the fallFall is here, and with its arrival, many people end their great summer vacations, get back to school, and get ready to enjoy hot cider, pumpkins, and fall leaves at home.

But wait! Just because fall is here doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy a nice getaway.

In fact, there are many points in favor of taking a getaway to the lake in the fall rather than the summer.

After all, who wants to fight traffic, crowded boat landings and lakes full of cruisers, skiers and anglers?

Kids can get grumpy in the summer heat and parents, exhausted. And don’t forget the bugs are out, and there are just so many people.

Ok, ok, so the lake in summer is not that bad (it’s actually great!), but there are some experiences you can only have if you visit the lake this fall.

Fewer People

There are fewer people visiting the lake in the fall.

Sure, people come to hike or take photos, but the beaches around the lake aren’t packed with college kids or families coated in sunblock.

The access roads are actually accessible in the fall, and the main channel isn’t overcrowded with other boaters.

If you don’t like crowds of people, or suffer from “boat” rage, the lake during the fall is the ideal.

Scenic Views

Everything just looks better in the fall.

Lakes are beautiful year-round, but imagine the trees around the lake in fall colors, and a lovely fall sunset that makes everything seem much more vivid.

The fall twilight makes your beloved lake home look and feel even more cozy. Enjoy long walks while taking in the views, and appreciate the wild outdoors at its most beautiful.

Better yet, hit the lake.

Before winterizing your boat and docking it for the year, hit the water to take in all the colors of the fall leaves.

Weather

Anyone who says they don’t like fall weather is just crazy, so don’t listen to them. Autumn marks cooler temperatures, but straddles the line between “hot” and “cold” perfectly.

In the summer, you’re sweating on your walk or in the boat out in the open lake, the sun is burning you, and you’re tired before the day is done.

In the fall, you can walk or boat all day without truly getting overheated, and the bugs have mostly gone away so you won’t be lathering yourself in DEET.

Let’s paint a new picture, shall we?

Imagine cruising down the open highway, enjoying a sing-a-long with your kids, headed to your weekend getaway in a great cabin by the lake.

You get to enjoy the fall foliage while you  walk along your favorite trail, which is no longer crowded, at your leisure in the crisp air.

The bugs have gone or quieted down, and the animals are out in full force, giving you a great wildlife-watching experience.

The climate is perfect sweater weather, and you can stay out all day without getting cold or hot.

The leaves on the ground, and the colors of the trees, provide a fantastic backdrop for your new Facebook cover photo, making all of your friends instantly jealous of your fall retreat.

At night in your comfy cabin, the kids rest peacefully as there are no late night boaters out creating noise pollution, and you and your spouse enjoy a nice cider or pumpkin beer on the patio, listening to the rustle of the leaves.

While a lake home is typically seen as a great place to spend the summer, if that is the only time you utilize your space you are only getting a fraction of the benefits of lake living!

 

 

The Joys of SEC Football and Lake Life

Posted on Staff

SEC lake mapWith less than one week ’til the kickoff of college football, it’s time to take a look at two common passions in the South: SEC football and lake life.

With regional temperatures generally staying warm well into the fall, and many lakes in close proximity to college campuses, it makes for a natural fit!

Whether you are having family and friends over to party and tailgate at the lake home, or attending the game and returning to the lake home as your out-of-town getaway, the lake will definitely enhance your experience.

University of Alabama – Lake Tuscaloosa

Located only 20 minutes from Bryant-Denny Stadium and Alabama’s campus, this reservoir features 177 miles of shoreline and serves as the main water supply for the cities of Tuscaloosa and Northport.

Its close proximity to these cities and clear waters also make it a popular spot for recreational activities such as swimming, boating and fishing.

Nick Saban, coach of the Alabama football team even has a house on Lake Tuscaloosa. He is known invite his players out to occasionally enjoy the use of his boat and jet skis!

SEC logoAuburn University – Lake Martin

Jordan-Hare Stadium and the Auburn campus is conveniently located less than 1 hour away from gorgeous Lake Martin, which boasts more than 700 miles of shoreline.

In addition to pristine waters and luxurious houses, the lake boasts natural attractions like Chimney Rock, as well as numerous local restaurants.

Search the web for Lake Martin rentals, and you will find no shortage of properties promoting “Auburn Football weekends on the Lake” and “Auburn Football Weekends.”

University of South Carolina – Lake Murray

USC, located in Columbia, SC, is minutes away from the fishing and recreational hotspot that is Lake Murray.

The lake, which has more than 500 miles of shoreline, can reach depths of up to 200 feet.

One draw for Lake Murray is the consistency of its water levels, fluctuating only 4 feet between the summer and winter seasons.

Another perk of lake is the convenience to Columbia, which is the home of the Riverbanks Zoo, Broadway shows, concerts, and of course, the USC Gamecocks and Williams-Brice Stadium!

vol navy tailgating
Photo courtesy of http://www.tailgatingideas.com/

University of Tennessee – Tennessee River/Fort Loudoun Lake 

UT’s Neyland Stadium is located 30 minutes from Fort Loudoun Lake and sits directly on the shores of the Tennessee River.

With almost 400 miles of shoreline, there is a lake property to match anyone’s needs, and if there is not, you can even look for a houseboat to live directly on the water!

UT fans take tailgating  to a whole new level, so much so that it has spawned its own title, known as “sailgating.”

That’s right, a group of super fans and boating enthusiasts, known as the Vol Navy, arrive by boat and tie up outside of Neyland Stadium to celebrate with traditional tailgating activities on their boats and on the three-mile riverwalk.

The bottom line is, no matter where you go in the SEC footprint, you’re bound to be near a beautiful body of water.

While most people think of a lake home as a great spring and summer getaway, it can also function as a one-of-a-kind tailgating experience on the weekends during the fall and winter months!

 

4 Famous Movie Lakes and Their Actual Location

Posted on Staff

When it comes to lakes in movies, most people automatically think of the horror genre.

That may be somewhat justified as there seems to be so many scary films that take place on the water, but there are also plenty of other movie lakes involving comedies, dramas, and romance.

That said, let’s start the list off with the most obvious (as related to LakeHomes.com) movie of them all:

The Lake House (2006)

the lake house from the lake house movie sandra bullock

This 2006 romance starred Keanu Reeves and Sandra Bullock, but the real star of the movie was the lake home. The home was built specifically for the movie on Maple Lake, IL, just outside of Chicago.

It was actually constructed on the shoreline, then the ground underneath it was dug out allowing the lake to flood beneath the house for it’s over the water aesthetic.

Maple Lake is actually a forest preserve, and as such there are no homes on its shorelines. Because of this, after the filming of the movie had wrapped, the house was destroyed and the area cleaned up so that no trace of the structure remained.

Friday the 13th (1980)

friday the 13th original lake house movie 1980
Photo courtesy of Brett McBean.

The original horror movie, and one of the very first slasher flicks, was released in 1980 and takes place on the fictional Crystal Lake.

The lake scenes took place on Sand Pond, the lake retreat for the real-life Boy Scout Camp No-Be-Bo-Sco in New Jersey.

The camp is still in operation, and Sand Pond is still enjoyed by campers each summer!

What About Bob (1991)

What about bob lake house 1991

This 1991 comedy stars Bill Murray and Richard Dreyfuss in what is supposed to be a relaxing vacation getaway to Lake Winnipesaukee in New Hampshire.

While Lake Winnipesaukee is an actual lake in New Hampshire, the movie was actually filmed on Smith Mountain Lake in Virginia.

This was because the film was set during the summer months, but when filming began the leaves in New Hampshire had already begun to turn to their fall colors.

Grownups (2010)

Grownups 2010 movie lake house
Photo courtesy of Good Morning Gloucester.

This 2010 buddy comedy starred basically the entire cast of Saturday Night Live from the early 90’s, headed up by Adam Sandler.

In it, a group of friends reunite in their hometown and rent out a lake cottage for the week.

Filming for this comedy took place on Chebacco Lake, a 209-acre reservoir that is considered a “Great Pond,” meaning that it is owned by the state of Massachusetts but is open to the public for recreational use.

While the movie was universally panned, I’m sure the cast didn’t mind spending a summer on this gorgeous New England lake!

For more Hollywood lakes, check out our second article, “Top 5 Movies Set on the Lake.”

Or are you dreaming of creating memories in your own lake home? Check out some properties here!

Summer Grilling: Properly Cooked Meat

Posted on Glenn S. Phillips

Grilling is always a great way to pass the time with friends and family. However, there are plenty of things to consider when hosting a barbeque.

These aspects of grilling will ensure that you keep everyone safe during the fun get-together.

Temperature recommendations should be taken seriously. Proper cooking temperatures ensure that all the bacteria on a piece of food are destroyed.

You will need to make sure you have a thermometer handy to check for correct internal temperatures reach before serving any meat.

flaming grill on a lakeside beach Beef

Do not depend on the color of the meat as it can be misleading.

You need to make sure that once the meat is cooked that it stays warm. If you do not plan to serve your food right away, refrigerate cooked beef immediately.

Beef should be at least 145 degrees on the inside before it is served.

Chicken

Chicken is pink when it is raw and turns white as it cooks. However, just because it is white does not mean it is safe to consume.

The internal temperature of chicken should reach 165 degrees, at least.

No matter if the chicken is on the bone, cut into strips, or are boneless chicken breasts, you will need to ensure to take the temperature of all the chicken pieces.

Pork

Pork will also turn white when it is completely cooked.

You will need to ensure that you use the thermometer to check that the temperature of the meat reaches at least 160 degrees.

Fish

Most people will cook the fish until it is flakey. This does not mean that it is done.

At times the temperature may be cooler than it should be even though it is fork tender. It is important to always test fish.

The fish should reach at least 140 degrees before it is consumed. Great, hearty and less flakey fish for grilling include:

  • Tuna
  • Amberjack
  • Halibut
  • Swordfish
  • Haddock
  • Mahi Mahi
  • Salmon
  • Grouper
  • Cod
  • Catfish

Vegetables

No grilling get together is complete unless you have vegetables off the grill as well. One safety tip that is crucial is that you never cross contaminate.

This means do not use the same cutting board and knife that you did when you cut the meat. Doing so will transfer bacteria and blood to the vegetables.

Make sure to wash your hands to also ensure that you are not cross contaminating the vegetables.

Also, coat the vegetables with oil to ensure that they do not burn while they are on the grill.

Most people wrap the vegetables with aluminum foil and add in the seasonings with fresh garlic in the package.

When the meat is half way done, add the vegetable package to the grill. This will ensure that the vegetables are done when the meat is.

If you are unsure if the vegetables are done, use a fork to test the tenderness of the vegetables.

For a handy guide on grilling and food preparation and safety, check out this convenient poster by clicking here.

 

5 Toys You Need for Your Pontoon Boat

Posted on Glenn S. Phillips

Having a pontoon boat will open up a whole new world of fun for you and your family. There are many different activities that you can do on a pontoon boat, and if you purchase amazing add-ons you can add even more fun to the experience.

Click on any of the links below for more information!

pontoon boat on the lake

Pontoon Fire Pit

Even though you can already fish, cruise, camp and ski on your boat, you can also add a fire pit.

These fire pits, fueled by natural propane, offer yet another way to relax an evening on the lake, particularly during cooler weather.

Pontoon Lighting

Lighting that can be put under the deck offers illumination for nighttime barbeques and parties. Though not something you will use every time you’re on the water, these lights create the perfect ambiance for a night ride.

The lights mounted to the underside of the boat will make the water glow with amazingly vibrant colors.

Your pontoon lights can even be used to liven up the mood the next time you have a party on your dock!

Mounted Barbeque Grill

There are numerous options for boat mounted barbeque grills. Most options offer a mounting unit with an accessory pole that fits into the same hole where you would put a drink table.

These on-board grills offer a way to cook for your family and friends without having to leave the water. All you have to do is throw some hotdogs and hamburgers on the grill while everyone is swimming!

Diving Board

Half the fun of going out on the pontoon boat is getting to swim. Why not make a splash out there by purchasing a pontoon diving board?

Boards come in various sizes, which can be securely fasted to the boat and used like a regular diving board.

Before taking the first plunge, make sure you check for debris in the water and to ensure that the water is deep enough for safe diving.

Slides

Whether you want a permanent fixture or one that you can put up and take down as you please, there is a pontoon slide out there for you.

Slides can be made of metal or strong plastic and attached to the boat itself for unlimited fun. But if some occasions don’t call for such adventure, say a leisurely cruise along the shore, purchase an inflatable attachment.

These can be blown up and used, and then when it is time to pack it up for the day, the slide is deflated and can be packed away to offer more space.

 

Why You Need a Double-Decker Dock on Deep Water

Posted on Glenn S. Phillips

Docks are not only useful for storing your boat, they can also be a hot spot for fun. Having a double-decker dock can almost be compared to having a tree house, but on the lake! And the best part: two decks means two times the fun!

Here are just five of the many reasons to have a double-decker dock:

double decker dock on the lake1. Sun Bathing

Some people like privacy when they sun bathe. Not only do double-decker docks offer privacy when you are sun bathing on the top deck which is often enclosed with a slated fence, they also offer you direct sunlight.

On the top level, you can either enjoy time sunning by yourself, or furnish the area with a small table and a few chairs for others.

You can even offer a storage area to put your sun lotion, towels, blankets and radio in. Just make sure that the storage container is waterproof so your items aren’t damaged by the elements.

2. Boat Protection

Boat protection is another great aspect of having a double-decker dock, as the second floor shields the boat from exposure.

You can also add on to the structure by adding a closet to store fishing poles, life jackets, and other boating essentials.

You can even install a boat lift on the dock to raise your boat out of the water when not in use; just another way to help preserve and protect the investment that is your boat!

3. A Slide

Thrill seekers will enjoy the added height of a double-decker dock which are often as tall as 30 feet above the water.

Slides can be installed one of two ways:

The first starts the rider at the second level and is ridden down to the lower level, at which point the rider is deposited into the lake.

The second and more adventurous option would be installing a ladder to the top of the slide and once the rider reaches the bottom of the slide they fall from the height of the second level to the water below.

4. A Diving Board

Everyone enjoys a fun high dive! With the height of the second level plus the spring of the diving board, you can really soar before plunging into the lake below!

One safety precaution to consider before installing a diving board is to make absolutely sure the water around your dock is deep enough for diving.

This is also important to check even when diving without the aide of a board, as diving into shallow water is extremely dangerous.

Also make sure that the area is clear of all underwater debris, such as old man-made objects or downed trees.

5. Additional Entertaining Area

Having a double-decker dock offers more than double the capacity of a single level dock. You can have extra company, extra activities and the dock will offer much more space for patio furniture or even a grill.

With a double-decker dock, you are essentially providing an extra porch or patio for all sorts of entertaining right on the water!

 

Perfect Magazine Subscriptions for Your Lake Home

Posted on Staff

If you have a lake home or a vacation home, then you will need some appropriate reading material. Magazines that are theme based offer great ideas, interesting articles, how-to articles, and so much more.

Here is a list of different magazines that will offer you amazing content perfect for your getaway:

couple reading a magazineSouthern Living Magazine

Southern Living is a magazine that concentrates on all aspects of the southern life. It includes recipes, places to visit, people, and so much more.

The subscription is very fairly priced and will offer you hours of reading material.

They have even done an article title “The Best Lakes Across the South,” so check it out!

Ideal Living

For those with thoughts of retirement on the horizon, look no further than Ideal Living. This lifestyle mag focuses solely on destinations tailored specifically for those looking to live an almost resort-like life after retiring.

They often feature many lakes throughout the United States, as well as mountain homes and beach locations.

National Geographic Travel Magazine

This magazine offers great information on different locations found all over the world from lakes to mountains. It offers interesting information on local and exotic locations.

Most people who love lake life also love nature and the great outdoors. National Geographic provides just that!

Cottage Journal Magazine

Cottage Journal Magazine is inspired by seasonal homes and gardens that offer fresh styles and beautiful photography. You can find great articles that will give you great ideas for your lake home. It offers designs and creative ways to offer great ways to relax in your home.

Cabin Life

Similar to the Cottage Journal, Cabin Life is another great read focused on cabin living, which often times goes hand to hand with lake living!

Go Local

If you would like to have more local information, many lakes have regional or even lake specific publications that you can subscribe to. It will offer information about your area, as well as surrounding areas, as well as current events. Some great examples include:

Though many of these can resemble newspapers more so than magazines, they are an excellent source of information to have sent directly to your home!

Portrait of Eli Kirkley

 

Eli Kirkley is Director of Communications at Lake Homes Realty

 

 

 

Fishing in the South – Species You’ll Find and How to Identify Them

Posted on Staff

Fishing is one of the most popular pastimes in the South, and for good reason! There are various types of fish located in most every lake to match each angler’s fishing style and skill level.

Here is a list of some of the most common species you will find, along with their description and other names they go by.

We’ve even included tips on how to catch each species for a little extra help for you on your fishing adventures.

Fishing in the Southeast Largemouth bassLargemouth Bass

These are one of the most sought after freshwater game fish. Known for their fierce fight and determination once they are hooked. Largemouth bass are iconic fish for their behavior after taking the bait. They actually leap out of the water in an effort to throw the hook!

Largemouth bass commonly grow to 2-3 pounds, though 6-12 pounders are not uncommon.

There are numerous baits and tackle popular among bass anglers. These include spinner baits, live bait, jigs, and soft plastic lures like imitation worms or lizards.

The largemouth bass is olive green in color with a series of dark to black blotches that form a jagged stripe along each of the flanks.

Fishing in the Southeast smallmouth bassSmallmouth Bass

Although this fish is very similar to its largemouth counterpart, it only grows to be around 6 pounds.

One common method used to catch this fish is a lead head jig rigged with 3-4 inch plastic grub or even a plastic worm.

These fish are aggressive and very common. Some anglers even argue that they put up more fight pound-for-pound than their larger cousins.

Fishing in the Southeast striped bassStriped Bass

Although native to North America’s Atlantic coastline, these fish are also comfortable in fresh waters where they naturally migrate to spawn.

Because they can live in freshwater, many lakes throughout the South have been artificially stocked with Striped Bass, or “Stripers,” as game fish.

Since they are removed from their normal environment, most lakes containing these fish have to be restocked yearly, as the fish do not naturally reproduce without being able to travel up river.

Stripers are even bigger than Largemouth Bass, and can reach weights of more than 50 pounds.

Fishing in the Southeast crappieCrappie

Crappie are a favorite among  many fishermen, as they are abundant in population and often easy to catch. It is a flat fish with green, gold-ish sides and black spots.

The crappie is the smallest fish to make the list.

The best areas to locate this fish are around trees, brush, or stumps that are submerged. To catch them, use small lead head jigs that offer plastic or feather bodies, or live bait such as crickets or worms.

catfishCatfish

Catfish can be found in just about any lake or river. They spend their time foraging at the bottom, which is why they are known as “bottom feeders.”

Most catfish weigh between 3-8 pounds but have been known to exceed 50 pounds.

These fish are most active during the night hours.

Some of the best ways to catch catfish is to use night crawlers, chicken livers, hot dogs, or any type of “smelly” bait. This is because they have taste buds all over their body and can actually taste their food before they bite into it!

Catfish have whisker-like stems coming out from their faces with a yellowish belly. Unlike the other fish listed, catfish do not have scales on their bodies and have a smooth, almost slimy feel.

Are you an avid angler in the South? If so, what is your favorite fish to target?

And check out our article on “Fresh Fish Recipes You’ve Got to Try“!