Tag: lake living

Lake Leisure: The Best Floats for 2024

Posted on Oscar Gipson
Photo Courtesy of Upgraded Points

Summer is synonymous with sunshine, laughter, and cooling off in refreshing waters. And what better way to enjoy a day at the lake than lounging on a comfy float? But with so many options available, it can be tough to know where to begin. This article will be your lifesaver, guiding you through the top lake floats of 2024. We’ll cover a variety of styles and functionalities to suit your needs, whether you’re a party animal seeking a floating island paradise or a tranquility enthusiast yearning for a solo chill zone.

The Chillaxer’s Oasis: Intex River Run 1 Inflatable Water Float

Photo Courtesy of Intex

For those seeking a classic no-frills float experience, the Intex River Run 1 reigns supreme. This inflatable tube offers a spacious circular design with a mesh bottom for cool comfort, perfect for kicking back and soaking up the sun. It boasts a cup holder for keeping your favorite beverage close at hand, and multiple air chambers for added safety. Plus, with its affordable price tag, the Intex River Run 1 is easy on the wallet.

The Luxe Lounger: Big Joe Captain’s Pool Float

Photo Courtesy of Big Joe

If luxurious relaxation is your priority, then the Big Joe Captain’s Pool Float is your captain to tranquility. This plush throne boasts a built-in cup holder, oversized backrest, and armrests, ensuring you stay comfortable for hours on end. The durable construction and UV protection guarantee long-lasting enjoyment, while the inflatable design makes for one of the best lake floats on the market.

Island Hopping: Ozark Trail Big 6-Person Inflatable Island

Photo Courtesy of Walmart

Craving a floating fiesta with a group of friends or family? The Ozark Trail Big 6-Person Inflatable Island is your answer to unforgettable lake adventures. This inflatable behemoth offers ample lounging space for up to six adults, making it ideal for group gatherings or family outings. Equipped with eight cup holders and a built-in cooler, you can keep drinks and snacks ready for your crew. For added comfort, it features two extra-wide pillow backrests and a mesh area for dipping your toes in the water. Easy to maneuver thanks to the swim-up platform and heavy-duty handles, the Ozark Trail Big 6-Person Inflatable Island joins the ranks of the best lake floats, ensuring a touch of comfort and convenience on your next aquatic escapade.

Serenity Seeker’s Sanctuary: Bote Inflatable Hangout Water Hammock

Photo Courtesy of Bote

For those seeking a dose of tranquility on the water, the Bote Inflatable Hangout Water Hammock is your ultimate escape pod. Imagine gently rocking on the waves with a captivating book in hand. This hammock-style float allows you to comfortably stretch out and soak up the sun, with a headrest for added comfort. The durable, water-resistant construction ensures you can drift along without worry, while the inflatable design makes for easy transport. Escape the noise and find your zen with the Bote Inflatable Hangout Water Hammock.

So there you have it! From classic tubes to luxurious lounges and social party islands, we’ve explored a variety of the best lake floats for 2024. Whether you’re seeking a solo escape, a romantic rendezvous, or a fun-filled family outing, there’s a perfect float out there to elevate your lakeside experience. So grab your sunscreen, inflate your floatie of choice, and get ready to make a splash this summer with one of these amazing best lake floats!

Whiteboard Topics: Selling A Lake Home Is Like “Shark Tank”

Posted on Zac Parnell

Most people have probably heard of the TV show Shark Tank. However, you might not realize that selling lake property is more similar to that show than you know. When you think about it, the people who go on the show are entrepreneurs. This can almost be said for somebody selling a lake home. You have a product, your home, that you’re trying to get the “sharks”, the buyers, to invest in. Glenn Phillips, CEO of Lake Homes Realty, discusses 5 points about what this might look like.

  1. “Addressable Market” (Who is Your Customer?): You’re not selling to everyone when it comes to your lake home. You have a specific demographic that is realistically looking at your home. These are the people who are interested in making that investment/purchase of your home.
  2. How Do You Market (Reach Your Customer)?: Here at LakeHomes.com, there is market reach to people in your area and those who are states away. Agents at Lake Homes Realty can present you with this data and show you that the customers you’re reaching are likely outside of your local area.
  3. What is Your Value Proposition? What is the reason behind your home being at this price point? Oftentimes, consumers who visit Lake Homes Realty are searching around different lakes so pricing is an important factor to stay competitive.
  4. What Makes You Different? You need to have something that differentiates you from other sellers. Going back to Shark Tank, all the products are different. You also need to think beyond your personal home values. Most buyers aren’t looking into how you personalized the property.
  5. Is Different Desirable? You can have eccentric aspects to your property, but this can be a negative to consumers. Not all the things you like always have a positive value.

Overall, selling a lake home can have these similarities with the people who make their way onto Shark Tank. When it comes down to it, making sure you remember these 5 key tips can make or break it. Don’t hesitate to reach out to a lake agent at LakeHomes.com for more help!

Whiteboard Topics: What Is The Best Lake To Buy A Lake Home?

Posted on Zac Parnell

The time has come and you’re ready to buy a lake home. You might be asking yourself, “What lake makes for the best lake home purchase?” When it comes down to it, it all just depends. A lot of people who purchase lake homes on specific lakes do it for a plethora of reasons. Hear what Glenn Phillips, CEO of Lake Homes Realty, has to say when it all boils down to deciding which lake to call home.

  1. Depends: It’s Personal: Picking between Lake A and Lake B is a personal choice. Because of this, you have to narrow down the things you would want from living at the lake. Lake homes vary widely, from environments to the reasoning behind the purchase and many other factors.
  2. Full-Time or Part-Time: Are you planning on making this home your full-time residence? If so, you’ll more than likely have different needs than a part-time resident. For example, if you plan on living there part-time, you might want to consider a home with extra space for storing items during the off-season.
  3. Accessibility: Does it take 30 minutes or 2 hours to get there? Sometimes you will have lakes where you can see the other side, but in order to get to your home, it’s a 45-minute drive. You will also need to consider the terrain as well as the road conditions from your home to major access points.
  4. Quiet or Busy: Some lakes are more populated than others. Depending on your preference, you will need to choose between a lake area that is busy versus one that is quieter and laid-back.
  5. Seasonality: Some lakes are considered “full pool” meaning the water level doesn’t drop significantly. The lakes that do fluctuate are typically used for flood control, which can limit water activities. Also, depending on which region of the country the lake is located in, you might find lakes that completely freeze over during the winter season. In this case, you will need to winterize your home.
  6. Affordability: Lake homes are niche properties that are different from your typical residential home. Knowing what you can realistically afford will help narrow down options for both properties and locations. Keep in mind that location can significantly add to your overall lake home cost.
  7. Date the Lake: Plan to take a trip to a lake you might be looking at. Stay there for a weekend or multiple weekends at different times of the year. This can significantly help in getting to know your way around the area and lake.

The bottom line when choosing which lake to pick from all comes down to what you’re looking for. Buying a lake property is a choice that needs to align with your lifestyle. If you’re still on the fence about it or would like more assistance navigating it, head on over to LakeHomes.com. We have lake agents from all over the country who are experts in their market. They can help you navigate the homebuying journey and find your dream lake home!

Visual Impact: Lake-Inspired Feature Walls

Posted on Jeanne Delathouder
Photo courtesy of Decorilla

If you’re living the lake life, you’re most likely already enjoying the natural scenery and spectacular views that envelop your blissful waterfront haven. So why not bring some of that beauty indoors to amplify the visual impact of your interior spaces? To integrate a memorable wow factor into your lake home, one of the best design techniques is to create a lake-inspired feature wall. By incorporating a powerful focal point, you can enhance the architectural style and personality of your room, transforming an ordinary space into an extraordinary visual experience. If you’re looking for ideas, here’s a quick list of some of our favorite lake-inspired feature walls.

Set In Stone

stone fireplace feature wall in lake home
Photo courtesy of Andrew Giammarco via Elle Décor

If your lake home embodies an earthy and rustic aesthetic, natural stone is the perfect choice for creating a dynamic feature wall. The look can instantly transform your room while contributing to your home’s scenic setting. This stone fireplace integrates seamlessly with the landscape and creates a cozy focal point for fireside entertaining. You can select stones in a multitude of colors and textures to complement your lake home surroundings. Arrange the stones in an eye-pleasing pattern or apply them randomly to cultivate an organic vibe.

Rock, Paper, Scissors

natural stone wallpaper feature wall in a lake home bedroom
Photo courtesy of Etsy

If you’re looking for instant gratification that offers the look of natural stone but with less commitment, create a feature wall using stonelike wallpaper. These wallpapers look like the real deal without the cost of materials and labor. You can choose from endless patterns that emulate marble, limestone, travertine, wood, and other natural finishes. Just look at how it elevates the luxury of this beautiful bedroom sanctuary. Complementing the splendid views, this feature wall blends effortlessly with the landscape and creates a serene synchronicity.

Reclaimed Beauty

reclaimed wood feature wall in rustic lake home dining room
Photo courtesy of Homedit

In our ongoing quest for sustainable design, reclaimed woods are undoubtedly having a moment. This is yet another way to infuse a touch of warmth and rustic charm into your lake home. Homeowners are increasingly looking to recycle old materials to honor the integrity of vintage structures and create a sense of authenticity while preserving the past.

You can bring a textural natural beauty to your interior spaces using old barn wood, salvaged timber, charred woods, railroad ties, and weathered wooden pallets. By using reclaimed wood to create a feature wall, you can transform an ordinary space into an impactful focal point that works in almost any room. You can install wood planks either vertically or horizontally to fashion a unique design. Apply finishes to your wood or leave it natural for a quaint cottage feel.

Interior Landscaping

Lake-inspired wallpaper mural in a lake home
Photos courtesy of Etsy

If you want to create an awe-inspiring statement wall, opt for a mural-inspired wallpaper featuring a scenic lake landscape. You can explore a vast range of nature-inspired patterns, including forests, mountains, lakes, and wildlife, that will instantly blur the lines between indoors and out. Make sure to seek out high-quality washable wallpapers that will withstand time and hold up well in your lake environment.

Vintage Vibes

vintage-inspired nautical-themed feature wall in a lake home
Photo courtesy of Pinterest
vintage framed lake life poster in lake home hallway
Photo courtesy of JadeForestDecor

Create a vintage cabin look or nautical theme by composing a feature wall using lake-inspired objects, antiques, collectibles, and artwork. Combine three-dimensional pieces with old paintings and vintage signs to bring depth and visual interest to your design. By simply adding a framed vintage poster to your hallway vignette, you can infuse your space with colorful warmth and personality. Plus, vintage looks always radiate an inviting ambiance, giving your lake home a personal touch and a memorable appeal.

lake-inspired photo gallery feature wall
Photo courtesy of Etsy
collage of lake-inspired photos and inspirational artwork for feature wall in lake home
Photo courtesy of Posterstore

If you love photography, you can showcase the beauty of your lake and its surroundings by creating a gallery wall featuring framed photographs. Capture all the scenic views your lake region offers—wildlife, sunsets, wildlife, architectural landmarks, and other inspiring features that define your lake environment. Arrange your framed photos in an eye-catching symmetrical layout, or adapt a collage style, mixing sizes and orientations to create a visually engaging feature wall. If you’re not necessarily a photographer, you can purchase sets of framed photos to achieve the same look.

Water-Inspired Whimsy

water-inspired tile feature wall in lake home bathroom
Photos courtesy of Homedit

Add a splash of color and creativity by creating a captivating tile feature wall. Choose vibrant and water-inspired mosaic tiles in various hues of blue, green, and turquoise, or create a mural or an abstract pattern that captures the essence of the lake. This striking bathroom feature wall displays tiles replicating a fish-scale pattern, bringing delightful texture and movement to the space. Alternatively, you can depict aquatic life or incorporate wave-like designs for an artistic touch. The possibilities are endless.

So, don’t be afraid to get creative with your own feature wall concepts. Just remember to consider the style of your lake home and its overall aesthetic when choosing your materials. This will ensure it complements your existing décor and creates a harmonious environment. Cheers to the lake life!

Whiteboard Topics: 6 Expensive Myths For Lake Home Sellers

Posted on Zac Parnell

Now might be the time when you have decided to put your lake house up for sale. Going into it, you might have heard of different rules to follow or maybe even some myths. When it all comes down to it, some of these myths end up costing money for the seller. Lake Homes Realty’s CEO, Glenn Phillips, details 6 expensive myths you might hear.

Myth #1 – The Local MLS and Zillow are Sufficient and Effective: While these platforms are great, that doesn’t take away from the fact that they’re simply not enough. Oftentimes, people who are looking from other parts of the country might have a hard time finding your property through these channels. More niche websites, such as LakeHomes.com, are more efficient for the buyer who is looking for a property like yours.

Myth #2 – An Open House is Critically Important: If you’re selling in a more urban setting, hosting an open house would be beneficial. Because the majority of lake home buyers live somewhere else, it wouldn’t be as useful to host an open house. If they live in another state, they will probably want to see the property, but not necessarily in an open-house setting.

Myth #3 – Zillow’s Zestimate Reflects Current Value: This tool is great for other types of environments; however, with lake properties, they don’t know how to account for factors that are specific to lake properties. Water location, water depth, and seasonal patterns are not always common knowledge, so therefore, the algorithm can’t process them accurately. A lake expert agent will have more insight into these nuances for various properties around the lake.

Myth #4 – Lake Home Buyers Want the Same Type of Homes Popular a Decade Ago: Homes from 10 years ago can have features that give them a rustic feel. However, buyers today might be looking for homes that are updated and feel high-tech.

Myth #5 – Fewer Lake Houses for Sale = Sellers Can Ask a Premium Price: Today’s buyers are more informed than ever before. These buyers know what they want and what they’re willing to pay for. This doesn’t mean they will automatically pay the premium price, which will oftentimes lead to homes just sitting on the market.

Myth #6 – Little Risk in “Testing the Market” with a High Price: The information we have found is that homes starting above market price tend to fail. Starting too high and then cutting shows buyers you’re aiming too high for what your home is actually worth.

Now that you are aware of these myths, you are better prepared to sell your lake home. If you’re getting ready to sell or have started the process, check out the lake experts at LakeHomes.com. They would love to help out if you’re looking for guidance through lake real estate!

Whiteboard Topics: 4 Danger Signs When Interviewing A Lake Real Estate Agent

Posted on Zac Parnell

Selling your lake home can be a difficult and time-consuming process. One of the best things you can do is have a trusted lake real estate agent by your side. However, you shouldn’t just choose any lake agent. You need to ensure the one you choose is willing to help with the full process. Glenn Phillips, Lake Home Realty’s CEO, lays out 4 danger signs when it comes to choosing your agent.

  1. Agent is Not Interviewing the Seller: While you need to interview the agent, the same goes for them interviewing you. It could be a red flag if they come in telling you how great they are and not asking you about what it is you’re looking for. A great agent will always ask what kind of outcome you are expecting.
  2. Will Take Overpriced Listing Without a Plan: A good agent usually has an idea of what your home would typically sell for. If you want to sell it for a higher price and they have a plan if it doesn’t pan out, that’s an agent you’d want on your side. If they’re just willing to put it at that price with no backup if it doesn’t sell, you might need to question that.
  3. Not a Lake Real Estate Expert: Being a lake expert for lake markets is incredibly important. The nuances that encompass lake real estate are something a typical real estate agent probably doesn’t know. Having someone with key knowledge of the lake and area is always something to look for. Working with a lake expert ultimately gets you the maximum return on your investment.
  4. Cannot Explain How They Target Out-of-State Buyers: Simply listing a property on the MLS to target people isn’t enough. Because this isn’t an effective way, LakeHomes.com uses specific marketing and targeting to figure it out. As a result, our agents are able to tell you where people are looking as well as where these buyers are located.

Overall, paying attention to these signs is really important when it comes to choosing who you want to work with. If you’re still not sure when it comes down to it, check out the great lake experts who are ready to help you out at https://www.lakehomes.com/agents.

Fishing Beyond Limits: Top Apps for an Enhanced Experience

Posted on Oscar Gipson
Photo Courtesy of Gink and Gasoline

Fishing has evolved far beyond a simple rod and bait. Gone are the days of relying solely on instinct and experience; now, anglers can leverage the power of smartphone apps to track weather conditions, map out the best fishing spots, log their catches, and connect with other fishermen. These apps are essential companions; whether for seasoned anglers or novices, they help maximize fishing experiences.

FishBrain

Photo Courtesy of Bass Fishing Blog

Fishbrain is a social networking app designed specifically for anglers. With over 15 million catches logged in its database, Fishbrain allows users to log their catches, share photos and tips, and connect with other fishermen in their area. The app also provides detailed fishing forecasts, including water temperature, wind speed, and barometric pressure information.

ANGLR

Photo Courtesy of ANGLR

Are you longing for a solution to plan, track, and analyze your fishing adventures? Look no further than ANGLR! This innovative app enables users to log detailed trip information, such as catch locations, weather conditions, and tackle used. Moreover, ANGLR’s mapping features empower anglers to create custom spots, track routes, and seamlessly share their experiences with others. Additionally, ANGLR offers advanced analytics tools that allow users to identify trends in their fishing data, enabling them to fine-tune their strategies and enhance their success rates over time. With its comprehensive features and user-friendly interface, ANGLR emerges as the ultimate companion for both weekend warriors and seasoned pros looking to elevate their fishing game.

Fishidy

Photo Courtesy of Apple App Store

With access to detailed maps of over 20,000 waterways across the United States, Fishidy provides users with invaluable insights into underwater structures, fishing hotspots, and local fishing reports. Its interactive maps empower anglers to plan their trips with precision, ensuring they target the most promising fishing locations. Moreover, Fishidy’s premium subscription offers advanced mapping and personalized fishing recommendations, maximizing users’ time on the water. By seamlessly combining cutting-edge technology with a vast database of fishing knowledge, Fishidy emerges as an indispensable tool for all anglers.

Navionics

Photo Courtesy of Navionics

Empowering users with detailed maps of lakes, rivers, and coastal areas worldwide, Navionics stands as an essential navigation app for anglers and boating enthusiasts alike. Its features, like depth contours and navigation aids, ensure users navigate unfamiliar waters confidently. Moreover, Navionics encourages community interaction, enabling anglers to share experiences and tips. This app becomes an invaluable companion, providing navigation assistance and creating a collaborative space for users to enhance their maritime expertise.


As the art of fishing embraces the digital age, these innovative apps have become essential companions for anglers, transforming how fishing experiences are planned and executed. From FishBrain’s social networking prowess to ANGLR’s comprehensive trip tracking and analytics tools, each app caters to the diverse needs of anglers, be they seasoned pros or eager novices. Fishidy’s detailed maps and Navionics’ global navigation features further underscore technology’s transformative impact on the fishing landscape. In this interconnected realm of apps, anglers are not just tracking catches or planning routes; they’re fostering a community and enhancing their overall maritime experience. These apps have ushered in a new era where angling isn’t just a pastime but a collaborative and tech-driven adventure.

Whiteboard Topics: 5 Questions Lake Home Buyers Should Answer

Posted on Zac Parnell

Buying a home means asking and answering questions. Before you start the buying process, know that you should be prepared to answer specific questions. Knowing specific things about what you’re looking for will tremendously help your real estate agent and improve the experience. Today, Glenn Phillips, CEO of Lake Homes Realty, explains a few questions you should be ready to answer.

  1. Sunrise or Sunset? If you are looking for a lake home with views, specifically one of these views, you need to know which you prefer. Narrowing down if you’d prefer a sunrise or sunset view can help pinpoint areas of the lake to look at. 
  2. Convenience or Solitude? This is one to really keep in mind. If you want the most privacy you can get, you have to be aware that you may be giving up convenience. This is something to thoroughly think about before making any type of decision. 
  3. People Traffic: Let’s say you do want a lake home with more solitude; you still need to think of the location. You might not have many neighbors, but if the road your home is on leads to even more private properties, there could be more traffic. This can also play into boat traffic. Solitude on land doesn’t always mean the same for the lake.
  4. Waterfront, Water View, or Water Access? Price points can change drastically depending on which of these 3 you’re looking into. Not only that, but what you might think is waterfront could very well just be water access. This is something to keep in mind.
  5. Full-Service or DIY (Do It Yourself)? Are you looking more for a home where you take care of everything or something where people in the community can come and help? Some communities take care of the trash, mow the lawn, and many other things. If you want more responsibility for your lake home, then DIY is where you should be looking.

Being able to answer these 5 questions is important if you’re thinking of buying a lake home. If you’re not sure where to begin with these, check out https://www.lakehomes.com/ for more information. You can also contact one of our lake experts for guidance through the buying process!

Whiteboard Topics: Do Lake Markets Match Reach Estate Headlines?

Posted on Zac Parnell

If you’ve looked for real estate in your life, you’ve seen the different headlines about real estate markets. Now, if you happen to be looking for a lake home, you may think to yourself, “Do those headlines pertain to lake markets, too?” Lake Homes Realty’s CEO, Glenn Phillips, dives into why these don’t typically match up.

  1. Location, Location, Location: This is a big contributing factor for lake real estate. Oftentimes, the headlines revolve around residential properties. The location of a lake changes the property value of a home. In fact, demand, popularity, and price can all be determined by the location of lake homes.
  2. “Phantom” Inventory: Because there is a big demand for lake properties, some homes are selling and some simply aren’t. This can be attributed to what is priced right and what isn’t. This leads the market to look inflated when it’s actually due to this “phantom” inventory. 
  3. Discretionary Homes: Some people who are looking to sell their lake home might be sitting on it due to a lack of urgency. This differs from residential real estate, where many homeowners are trying to sell as soon as possible.
  4. More Second Homes: If the lake property isn’t your main home, you’re not under a time constraint trying to get out and into your next. This leads to longer transaction periods. 
  5. More Investment Properties: Regardless of whether you use it as your second home or as a rental property, you’re putting money into it. What this means is that you’re creating new buyer demand.
  6. Mortgage Rates Not as Influential: It would surprise you how many lake property transactions are made with cash. Having more cash transactions means mortgages aren’t as impactful. 

In other words, these tips should give more insight into the reasoning behind lake market headlines not matching with other real estate. Another great way to gain more information is to reach out to a lake expert. If that’s something you’re thinking about, check out LakeHomes.com/agents to connect with one of our agents today!