vacation home Archives

Happy President’s Day: 5 Presidential Water Connections

Posted on February 17, 2020April 6, 2022 Camille Smith

Happy President's Day from Lake Homes Realty

In February, there’s a particular mid-month holiday that you might be looking forward to — and no, we’re not talking about Valentine’s Day. On February 17th, you’re likely to have a day off work in honor of President’s Day. This public holiday was originally recognized in honor of George Washington’s birthday. In 1971, it was adjusted to commemorate all U.S. presidents as part of the Uniform Monday Holiday Act. Now, it occurs on the third Monday of this month every year.

While it might be tempting to disregard this occasion as a three-day weekend, it’s a great opportunity to brush up on your U.S. history and take a look at some of our country’s previous leaders. Of course, at Lake Homes, we’re interested in presidential trivia about U.S. lakes. From Lyndon B. Johnson’s ranch house trickery to the famous presidential getaway known as Camp David, here are five locations near bodies of water with connections to U.S. presidents.

The Latest in Lake Home Security

Posted on October 28, 2019October 28, 2019 Staff

Man in suit pressing high tech screen with security icons

Whether your lake place is a primary residence or a home away from home, protecting it from break-ins and uninvited house guests should be at the top of your priority list. This security tip is true, especially if the property will be unoccupied this off-season.

It’s always a good idea to ask a friendly neighbor to keep an eye on your property while you’re away. Hire someone to maintain the yard in your absence. Planting thorny shrubbery under your home’s windows and installing an alarm system are great options for keeping your lake place safe, too.

Adding the latest lake home security systems and gadgets to your property can provide you with a little extra peace of mind that your investment is secure while you’re away.

Smart Locks/Keyless Entry

Smart lock on blue glass front door — Photo courtesy of HGTV.

Instead of trying to keep up with who has keys to your home and fretting about finding a safe spot to keep a spare, consider using the latest in security technology for your lake home.

Replace your traditional locks with keyless entry devices, which can be programmed to recognize multiple unique access codes, reducing the chances of a stolen or copied key.

Every member of your household can have a user-specific entry ID, safeguarding your property against potential wrongdoers who may try to memorize entry strokes.

Assigning family and friends with personal entry codes can also help you identify who enters your home and when through your device’s accompanying app.

Additional smart lock safety features include password-protected Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, remote accessibility, voice command options, and even fingerprint scanners on some models.

You can purchase most smart locks for less than $275, and installation usually takes less than a day.

For a list of the top-rated keyless door locks on the market in 2019, check out this helpful PCMag article.

Remote-Access/Controlled Lighting

Smart device with controlled lighting app — Photo courtesy of Protect America.

Creating the illusion that your home is occupied is a simple way to deter burglars and vandals from entering the property while you’re away for the off-season.

Installing remote-access lighting makes this easier by allowing you to turn lights on and off in different areas of the home to mimic your presence.

Most programs allow you to manually program your lights, via your smart home hub or wireless app, to activate and deactivate at specific times throughout the day and in specified areas.

Other options allow you to set your lighting system to “vacation mode,” which will turn your lights on and off randomly. Smart lights can also be set to turn on when they detect motion or sound.

You can purchase the Caseta Wireless Smart Lighting Dimmer Switch Starter Kit for about $100 at The Home Depot, a relatively inexpensive smart device option.

Lutron’s Caseta wireless devices take roughly 15 minutes to install per dimmer switch, each of which can control up to 17 light bulbs in a single circuit.

Facial Recognition Security Cameras

Facial recognition security camera by Google — Photo courtesy of The Silicon Review.

Security cameras equipped with facial recognition software are the latest lake home security devices to hit the market.

These camera systems alert homeowners when a device registers anyone on the property whose face is not in its user-programmed recognition databank.

Some facial recognition-equipped cameras can also be programmed to monitor specific areas around the house that may be most susceptible to unlawful entry or damage.

More advanced systems offer heat mapping and analysis capabilities and can even alert homeowners when cars with unfamiliar license plates are detected.

Nest smart home devices, like the Nest Cam IQ Outdoor, are among the most popular security camera systems available.

You can purchase this particular model for about $350. However, Nest IQ systems do not include “familiar face alerts” automatically. This bonus feature is accessible through a monthly subscription to Nest Aware.

Subscriptions start at $5 a month.

Do you have a favorite lake home security tip to share? Tell us in our comments section below!

Lake Home Tips: Kitchen Upgrades to Make Your Space Feel Bigger

Posted on September 14, 2018June 12, 2019 Staff

To be honest, most of the time spent at your lake home is spent outdoors – as it should be. But the second-most popular place at your lake home is inside: It’s your kitchen, and when you’re entertaining your family and friends, a cramped space just won’t do.

Construction crews aside, there are many simple ways to make your kitchen feel bigger. Take a look at the few examples below to see how you can update your space this lake season!

White and Wood

Lightening up the color of your kitchen may sound simple, but it’s effective.

Lighter colors, such as creams and whites, are better at reflecting light, which helps create the illusion of a larger room.

To take your upgrade a step further, interior designers suggest putting up trim around the top of your space, painted an even lighter color than the walls.

Add texture to your kitchen by paneling your walls with whitewashed wooden planks, commonly known as shiplap.

Popularized by the HGTV show “Fixer Upper,” shiplap can not only help make your kitchen feel bigger, but it can also make your space feel warm and cozy, like a comfy lake cabin.

Or, when accented appropriately, can give your kitchen a coastal vibe.

Let the Light in

Another technique to making your space feel bigger, is increasing the amount of natural light that flows into it.

Do away with your dark colored window shams and thick, heat-blocking curtains, and spring for a set of indoor shutters that can be opened and closed at your leisure while still inviting in ample sunlight.

You can also incorporate reflective surfaces in your kitchen. Similar to how lighter colors can make a space feel roomier, so can reflective surfaces like stainless steel appliances and metallic backsplashes.

Eliminating low-hanging chandeliers and frosted light fixtures can also open up a room.

Redo Your Floors

Installing patterned flooring is another option to consider when attempting to make your space feel bigger.

One way to achieve this is to use over-sized tiles in your kitchen. The size of these will help to create a sense of wideness to the area.

In selecting these tiles, choose similar colors that are slightly different, such as a slate and a lighter grey. Dark floors will contrast well with your light walls.

If you want hardwood floors, install planks of alternating colors. As with your tile, be sure not to very the color drastically. Slight variations will achieve the look you desire without being visually jarring.

Another tip is to install your hardwood floors vertically, rather than horizontally. This will help make your space look as it longer.

Incorporate Open Shelving

Ditch your boxy ceiling-to-counter shelves and opt for several open shelving units.

This will help add depth to your kitchen by optimizing the amount of light in your space and help make better use of your wall space.

Often thick and dark, closed cabinetry can also have an oppressive effect on a space.

Open storage aides in functionality of your kitchen by eliminating the time you take hunting down that pot or pan, as well as makes the room more inviting.

So before you call the contractor, try out one of these simple upgrade suggestions for making your space feel bigger, and be sure to check out our other home improvement articles here and here!

Renting Your Lake Home on Airbnb

Posted on April 21, 2017December 4, 2017 Staff

Airbnb is an online network where people can lease or rent short-term lodging in private homes.

The company was started in San Francisco by two roommates who wanted to “just make a few bucks” by renting out their apartment like a bed and breakfast, hence, the “bnb” part of Airbnb.

Today, it is the most popular and fastest growing individual vacation rental website in the world!

Almost anyone can be a host on Airbnb, which allows people to utilize their spare homes or rooms to earn extra income.

The host sets the price for the space, and renters pay for their visit in advance online. Both hosts and renters maintain profiles with ratings, feedback and general information.

This is perfect for those who own a lake home!

Lake homes are a great draw in vacation season, and you can earn hundreds of dollars in extra cash by listing your home.

Below are some helpful tips for listing your lake home on Airbnb.

Follow all local regulations

Find out what local regulations, taxes, licenses, permits and registrations apply where your lake house is located.

The governing authorities who control the use and development of property in your area usually have useful information on any such regulations.

If your lake home is in a rent-controlled area, there may be stricter rules that apply.

Call and ask questions if you aren’t sure – it’s extremely likely you’re not the first person in your area to inquire about renting your home.

HOA or Co-Op Permissions

Some cities and neighborhoods have bans or restrictions on Airbnb, so it is critical you check with your homeowner’s association or Co-Op Board regulations prior to listing your lake house.

If your lake home is a unit in a condominium community, check your contract to see if there are any short-term lease stipulations.

Remember your neighbors

Consider your neighbors when you plan to host your lake home on Airbnb.

When you have guests coming, let your neighbors know so they won’t be alarmed by strange cars showing up in the driveway.

This can save you a concerned phone call from your neighbor when they show up, or worse!

If your community has a security service, you should also notify them, as well, and make sure your guests have any entry or alarm codes before their stay begins.

Take photos to post online

At least some photos of your property are mandatory on Airbnb. Just some quick shots with your phone will suffice, but make them attractive!

You want to not only give prospective renters an idea of what to expect, you also want your home to be desirable.

Make sure any messes are cleaned up – and be sure to include some shots of the lake from your property!

Make your lake home safe for your guests

Leaving a reference sheet for your guests can be very helpful.

They should already have your contact number through Airbnb, but leaving it there can make it easier. Local emergency numbers, a backup contact, and other services are a good idea, too.

Make a basic first aid kit to keep fully stocked on the premises. The kit should be checked and restocked each time a guests checks out.

Make sure there is a fully functional fire extinguisher in the home and that the guests know where it and the first aid kit are kept!

Confirm that your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors are fully functioning, and that your lake home meets government safety guidelines for your area.

Ensure that you have a clearly accessible fire escape route, too.

Make sure your lake home is spotless for guests

One of Airbnb’s hosting ideals is cleanliness.

Providing a clean and tidy lake home will make your guests feel comfortable from the moment they arrive so they can focus on enjoying their stay and the scenery surrounding them.

This also demonstrates you dedication to making your guests feel welcome.

Most guests travel light and assume their host will have the basic amenities that a hotel would.

Make sure you are fully stocked up on paper goods like toilet paper, napkins, paper towels, etc., and have plenty of clean towels and washcloths. Three to four sets is a suggested minimum to provide for your guests.

Also provide basic shampoo, conditioner and soap for your renters.

Little things tend to make a big difference with guests’ satisfaction as well.

Providing a map of the local area, suggestions for local places to eat and drink and local events and happenings go a long way with Airbnb renters.

There are many other ways to maximize your income through Airbnb, while minimizing the impact of guests on your home.

With these tips, you have an excellent head start!

How to Prepare the Pipes at Your Lake Home for Winter

Posted on October 27, 2015January 13, 2020 Staff

Lake house during winter with snow and still lake

One of the most important aspects of taking care of your lake home is to make sure it survives the winter so that you can return without incident the following spring. So, what’s the best way to prepare the pipes for winter at your lake home?

The degree of protection needed can vary depending on the age of your home and its geographic location. Regardless, the most urgent need is protecting your pipes, so they don’t freeze and rupture. In some homes, pipe prep may require insulation around the pipes in the attic, around outside fixtures, and in crawl spaces.

Secondly, if you have pipes outside of the home such as in your yard for pools, fountains and sprinkler systems, they are going to be vulnerable to freezing. If you plan to be around the home during the freeze, running pumps for the pools or fountains can keep the water moving, so it doesn’t freeze.

Sprinkler systems should have insulation around any plumbing that is exposed. It’s a best practice to drain the water from the plumbing system until spring if you will be out of the house during the winter.

List of Things to do Before the Freeze

Winter lake house insulation prepare your pipes for winter

Prepare the pipes for winter by wrapping them with insulation. Specialized insulation can be purchased at any home repair store.
Insulate outside walls and unheated areas in the attic and crawl spaces.
Cover vents that are around the house’s foundation.
Protect outdoor electrical pumps by leaving them running during conditions below zero to keep water moving. If the system is entirely above ground, then it would be wise to drain it.
If you have a pool, keep the pump running and adjust valves so water can flow freely through the pipes. If your system doesn’t allow you to adjust the valves, then you’ll want to insulate the system.
For any fountains you have installed, if the pipes are underground, keep them running. If the pipes are all above ground, drain them.
Drain any supply lines for your sprinkler system that are above ground.

prepare your pipes for winter frozen leaky pipe

Cover any pipes in the attic if they are exposed. If you suspect they are not well protected then turn the faucets to drip water to help keep from freezing.
Caulk and weather-strip windows and doors to cut down on wind drafts
Storm windows can be installed or use plastic film and cover the windows on the inside.
Don’t forget to detach the garden hose, and shut the water supply off to the outside faucet. Install faucet covers on any external faucets for protection.
Turn off the water supply to dishwashers and washing machines if possible.

thermostat on heat in house — *Photo courtesy of Clark.*

Most importantly, remember that unless you drain your house’s entire plumbing system, do not turn the heat off.
Leave it on with a temperature setting no lower than 55 degrees to ensure your indoor plumbing does not freeze.
It is also a good idea to have a professional give your heating system a check-up before winter arrives.
Finally, if you live nearby, it is always a good idea to check in on things, or if you are friends with the neighbors, leave them a key, and ask for a visit as a favor.

For more advice on preparing for winter, take a look at our article, “7 Steps to Prepare Your Home for Winter“.

The Joys of SEC Football and Lake Life

Posted on August 30, 2015June 4, 2019 Staff

With 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!

Auburn 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!

When Should You Spend Money On Your Vacation Home?

Posted on July 2, 2015January 18, 2023 Glenn S. Phillips

The amount of renovation you put into your vacation home really depends on your current financial status and as well as on your desires. A home cannot be thoroughly enjoyed as a vacation home if it doesn’t meet certain standards, yet your financial priorities may still lie with your place of residence.

In this article we will discuss renovation tips for your vacation house and how much renovation is enough to do the job without ruining finances.

Before deciding to renovate, you must ask yourself several questions like:

How much money do I have?
How much money do I plan to spend in renovating this vacation house?
How much time will I spend in this vacation house during one year?
Is the house damaged? Does in need to be repaired?
Is renovating the home a priority?

After asking yourself these questions, you then must decide if renovation is a choice or necessity and what are the areas of the house where you will renovate if you chose to do so.

Bedroom

You or your guests will most likely spend at least seven hours per day in the bedroom, probably more. It is one of the things that can turn off anyone who wants to stay for vacation, depending on whether it is well decorated or not maintained properly.

The bed should be big and contain white pillow, sheets, and comforter. Useful accessories such as a clock, paintings, and a mirror would make the room more beautiful and attractive. Obviously, if there are bugs, insects, or holes, you must renovate the bedroom because otherwise it would be a nightmare rather than a vacation house.

Kitchen

Although it may serve as a vacation house, the kitchen still plays a very important role in making the vacation a better experience. In case the kitchen is old or there are numerous aging or damaged cabinets, consider renovating the kitchen.

Roof, foundation, sidings, and windows

Protect your house for the future from collapsing by properly maintaining and repairing it when needed so it remains dry. Below are some steps you should take to fix these issues:

Secure the foundation. If damaged, definitely replace it.
Make repairs to damaged walls and beams, especially load bearing.
Always repair leaks in the roof immediately.
Replace damaged windows. This can help with energy bills, insects, and over all presentation.
If siding is damaged enough to allow water infiltration, repair or replace it.

Other renovations you might consider include:

Insulation- Depending on the area where the house is located this might or might not be a necessity.
Flooring- Installing flooring during renovation will most likely prevent floor surface from damage.
Air Conditioning and Heating- For some people this is a luxury, for others a necessity. Depending on what your choice is, A/C and heating is something to be considered while renovation is taking place.
Demolition- Worst case scenario: an area is so damaged it is unrepairable. Demolition will clear the area and make up space for new and renovated house to be built.

After taking into consideration the amount of money you want to spend in the house and which part of the house you want to renovate, it is time you get going and make it a reality.

Lake Homes and Long Term Renting

Posted on May 8, 2015February 8, 2023 Glenn S. Phillips

When renting out your home for an entire season, there are some aspects you will need to think of before doing so. This list is to help protect you. If done the right way, you will be able to make a profit and avoid the headache of a bad renter.

Know About Costs

It is a good idea to research other rental properties in your area. It will help you understand if the home that you have for rent is worth renting. The market will determine the price of your rental.

For example, if your home is in an area where the properties rent for $1,000 per month, you will not be able to charge $2,000 unless your home is significantly larger or updated.

Know Your Tenants

It is a good idea to get to know your tenants. Having a good relationship with them will make the process a lot easier. If you have gotten to know your tenants, then they will be more inclined to follow the regulations that are set in the contract as well as rent from you again in the future.

Know the Laws

It is best to know the laws in your area, as well as federal laws. You will need to consult a public accountant to find the tax codes for the property. Do not make “handshake” deals. Make sure to always make repairs when they need to be done and have a contract signed.

Insure Your Property

Always have your property insured. It will protect your home and it will protect you from financial devastation should something happen to the home.

It is also a good idea to make sure that the renters have renters insurance. This can be put into a lease contract. It will protect you as well. If something should happen to the house, it will include the belongings of the tenants as well. Therefore, you could be held reliable for replacing them.

Repairs

Ultimately, you are responsible for the repairs on the home. Yes, you can charge a security deposit so that you can afford the materials in order to repair and clean the home once the renters are through with the property.

You can also make a request that the house be in the same condition as they began with and they can have the security deposit back.

Following these guidelines will help you keep on track when renting out a home. Make sure that you do not micromanage the home, but also be responsive when there are repairs to be done. This will protect you and your tenants.

Don’t Forget to Winterize Your Lake Home

Posted on December 28, 2014November 15, 2022 Glenn S. Phillips

When living on a large body of water or a lake, it seems like the elements provided by Mother Nature are amplified.

As winter comes, there are several steps that you should take to help protect your lake home from these elements. Some of the harshest winters can be found on some of these lakefront locations.

It doesn’t matter if you decide to ride these elements out or if you want to batten down the hatches and wait for spring. These precautions will save you time and money when the warmer months arrive.

Follow these simple steps to winterize your lake home.