Thoughts on acquiring a lake house in the Lakes Region

2018-10-5-lake-winnipesaukee

For many individuals the thought of owning a lake home is a dream. For others it becomes a reality…a dream come true.

For some it is a weekend getaway, for others, a permanent year-round residence or semi-retirement home.

During my 41-year career in real estate I’ve often found we are motivated by fond childhood memories of vacationing at a lake or ocean cottage. The sounds of waves lapping gently at the shoreline of a lake or the chilling call of a loon and days spent on the water—reminders of our early years at the lake.

So many clients have commented over the years the #1 reason they selected the Lakes Region was pure location. They found they got the best year-round value for their money to enjoy all 4 seasons.

Here are some valuable tips to help you buy a lake home:

Decide the distance. How far from your primary home?

The consensus is that a 2-3 hour drive from home seems manageable. If you purchase something 6-8 hours away will family and friends use it as well? The drive gets to be a bit taxing over time.

What size lake is important?

If you’re an avid boater and love exploring different towns,  islands, and restaurants a lake the size of Winnipesaukee offers more variety and places to visit than a 300-1,000 acre lake. For others, the peacefulness, tranquility, peaceful-canoe and calm waters of a small lake or pond fit the bill better.

Find an agent who “knows” the lakes intimately.

When you select a doctor I’m sure you research how many procedures they’ve performed in their specialty. It’s similar with Realtors®– you want to find an experienced specialist.

There are many Realtors® who have never driven a boat, never mind own one. There are many technical questions relating to the Shoreland Protection Act, dock permitting, and aquatic lake plants that need explanation. So to ensure a seamless closing and ultimately a sound investment seek the services of a professional Realtor® with a solid background in “Lake Property Sales.”

Big vs. smaller lakes?

Are you seeking to avoid boat turbulence and prefer tranquility, quiet lapping of the waves? Or are you looking for a sizeable lake to explore? These are important considerations. With a multitude of lakes in the lakes region there are all sorts of choices available.

Are you looking for a quiet cove, or long range lake and mountain views? If you’re into heavy boating, Winnipesaukee certainly has an abundance of islands to explore and boat around, whereas some of the smaller lakes are perfect for kayaking, swimming, fishing and spending some quality time with your grandchildren on the beach.

Research nearby amenities.

Are there any marinas nearby? What if my boat breaks down or I need gas? Can friends find a nearby launch for their boats? How close is the nearest supermarket, convenience store, gas marina-lake station, or restaurant? Activities for the children and proximity to cultural activities like music venues, summer theatre, concerts, movie theaters, craft fairs, etc. could be very important. Also, study the future impact of neighboring properties, zoning regulations, and commercial properties nearby.

Lake/boating regulations.

Speed limits on the lake? Horsepower restrictions? Are Jet Skis allowed? No wake zones? Will bridges limit sailboats? Water-skiing regulations? Dock size regulations? Are breakwaters allowed? Can you install a “perched beach”? Setback requirements and tree-cutting to conform to the NH Shoreland Protection Act? All of this information is helpful to make an informed real estate decision.

Understand the difference between “Lakefront” and “Water Access Communities.”

There are many choices. Most of us have a vision of a cozy lake cottage sitting right on the water on its own lot and lake frontage. There are however many alternatives that make a lot of sense. There are many fine “water access communities” throughout the Lakes Region that offer beautiful beaches, boat docking facilities, and other amenities like clubhouses, tennis courts, indoor/outdoor pools, etc., all at a much more affordable price point.

Understand water depths.

Be informed and understand the difference between a gradual sandy beach or a drop off of 20 ft. right from the shoreline. What’s important: young children on a gradual sandy beach or teenagers who love to “dive in” to deeper water?

Research water quality and aquatic plant growth.

Millfoil and other invasive lake plant species can be found on many lakes and especially in shallow coves where there’s no circulation. Water clarity is often better in deeper sections of the lake or where there’s an active current. Some sections of the lakes may have a brackish water color due to minerals in the water, logging, plant/tree decay, water circulation, etc. A good source for information is the NH Department of Environmental Services (www.des.state.nh.us) and the Lake Winnipesaukee Watershed Association (www.winnipesaukee.org) as well as www.winnipesaukeegateway.org.

Don’t purchase a boat before your home!

I’ve seen some over anxious clients make this mistake. 1st Pick a lake that fits your lifestyle. There are 10 horsepower limitations on some small ponds and lakes. Pontoon boats are popular on some lakes, while 23-28 ft. boats and cabin cruisers might be preferred on larger/rougher lakes. Know the maximum size boat your dock will accommodate.

Understand the difference between southwesterly exposure and northern or eastern exposure.

This is probably one of the most important issues for many buyers. Westerly exposure will add 3-4 hours of sunshine to your day—sometimes more—and will also extend warmer days as Spring and Fall approach. Blazing sunsets will also prevail. On the other hand, if you have fair skin and prefer to be out of the sun, cooler in the summer, and enjoy the sunrises and wake early, facing north or easterly might be the perfect solution.

In summary, rely on the experience of a professional Realtor® who specializes in the sale of all types of lake properties. An experienced, knowledgeable Realtor® can help you make your lifetime dream become a reality. Enjoy those sunrises and sunsets, loon calls, gentle breezes, and the lapping of the crystal clear water with your family in this cherished lake environment!

Frank Roche, President of Roche Realty Group, Inc. with offices in Meredith and Laconia, NH

Frank Roche is the President of Roche Realty Group with two offices in Meredith (603) 279-7046, and Laconia (603) 528-0088. You can learn more about the company and research a wealth of real estate information at: www.rocherealty.com

Single-Family units are down

How’s the Lakes Region Market Looking?

We’ve already passed the first quarter of 2023 for real estate sales in New Hampshire’s …

Read More →
Moving into new home young happy couple celebrating toast Champagne

Buying a Home? Follow These Tips & Tricks

Spring has officially arrived and launches the beginning of our spring selling season for real …

Read More →
Marketing

How Marketing Real Estate Has Evolved

Back in the year 2000, the world was at the beginning stages of a major …

Read More →
Mount Washington, New Hampshire

New Hampshire — 30 Reasons to Move Here!

With lakes, beaches, mountains, forests, rivers, and the ocean for people who enjoy the outdoors, …

Read More →
New Hampshire Ski Resort

Ski Resorts in New Hampshire Are Ready for Spring Skiing!

It’s been a good week, and mother nature hit our region with a blanket of …

Read More →
Market Trends

Real Estate Market Trends to Follow

I’ve been pulling up some current research on the real estate market on a national, …

Read More →
Carol Mattice

Roche Realty Group Welcomes Carol Mattice

Meredith — Frank Roche, President of Roche Realty Group, Inc, with offices in Meredith and …

Read More →
Kevin Shaw - Roche Realty Group

Kevin Shaw of Roche Realty Group is Top Producer for 2022

Laconia— Frank Roche, president of Roche Realty Group with offices in Meredith and Laconia, recently announced …

Read More →
Lisa Lewis

Lisa Lewis Joins Roche Realty Group

Meredith — Frank Roche, President of Roche Realty Group, Inc, with offices in Meredith and …

Read More →
Wanda Keenan

Wanda Keenan Joins Roche Realty Group

Meredith— Frank Roche, President of Roche Realty Group, Inc. with offices in Meredith and Laconia, …

Read More →
Land for sale

Buy Land in New Hampshire — They’re Not Making it Anymore

The science is in and the more trees a state has, the happier and less …

Read More →
The Price of Real Estate

Did The Price of Real Estate Increase in Your Town?

Everyone’s always interested to see how their real estate values have performed over the past …

Read More →
Laid off employee in recession

Are We Headed into a Recession?

It’s pretty big news lately; Microsoft, Amazon, and other tech companies have laid off more …

Read More →
Price Reduced

2022 vs. 2021 — Is The Lakes Region’s Frenzied Market Over?

It’s that time of year to provide all of you with an update on real …

Read More →
Roche Realty Meredith

Roche Realty Group Reports a Record of $181 Million in Sales

               Meredith- Frank Roche, President of Roche Realty Group, Inc, …

Read More →
Hillside Inn Winter

12 Things To Get You Through The Winter Months

On December 21st, the winter solstice marked the start of when days will begin to …

Read More →
Housing Inventory Lacking - Lake Winnisquam, NH

Lake Winnisquam, NH’s 4th Largest Lake is in Strong Demand

There are literally 273 lakes, ponds and rivers to enjoy in New Hampshire’s Lakes Region. …

Read More →
Interest Rates

Will We Ever See 1980s Interest Rates?

I was with a Realtor® friend of mine this past week, and we discussed what …

Read More →
Hikers overlooking the lake in New Hampshire, voted "Best State to Live in America" in 2020.

Squam Lake — a Lakes Region Treasure

This past summer, I was invited for lunch and a nice boat ride around Squam …

Read More →
Shop Local New Hampshire

Small Business Saturday in New Hampshire!

We have many things to be thankful for here in New Hampshire, plenty of natural …

Read More →
Couple downsizing to smaller home

Does Downsizing Your Home in Lakes Region Make Sense?

There are many things to consider when planning to sell your home to downsize into …

Read More →
Newfound Lake, New Hampshire

Newfound Lake is the 8th clearest lake in US

Newfound Lake is the 8th clearest lake in the United States New Hampshire has a …

Read More →
Echo Lake New Hampshire

New Hampshire Rankings are Impressive!

New Hampshire has always been fortunate to land in many of the country’s top 10 …

Read More →
Lakeside at Paugus Bay

Impressive New Construction in the Lakes Region

For new construction sales in New Hampshire’s Lakes Region, 2022 has shown very impressive results. …

Read More →
Inflation and housing prices

How Inflation Impacts Lakes Region Housing Prices

I was out with a friend this week on Squam Lake, and we were talking …

Read More →
Picture of author in the Grand Canyon

Is Lake Region Real Estate Drying Up Like The Southwest?

I just returned from a trip to Nevada, Arizona, and Utah this past week. Put …

Read More →
Brook Hill at Meredith: New luxury homes in Meredith, NH

Brisk Sales at Brook Hill in Meredith

Meredith— Sales at Brook Hill, a new luxury townhouse community in Meredith, have been exceptional …

Read More →

Impressive Sales at Lakeside at Paugus Bay

Laconia— Sales at Lakeside at Paugus Bay, a new luxury waterfront condominium community on Lake …

Read More →

Four Decades of Change in Lakes Region Real Estate

We were talking in the office the other day regarding how much the real estate …

Read More →
Supply and demand graph, real estate housing

The driving forces in the demand for NH housing

It is no secret that our country has seen some incredible growth in the real …

Read More →
Holderness, NH

Holderness Bridges Big Squam and Little Squam

Holderness is a lakeside community in the foothills of the white mountains on New Hampshire’s …

Read More →
high inflation

Energy & Ukraine Crisis Compared to 1970s Inflation

Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has emerged as a black swan event rattling the world during …

Read More →
Tilton, NH

Tilton — The Gateway to New Hampshire’s Lakes Region

Tilton, New Hampshire, is considered the gateway to New Hampshire’s beautiful Lakes Region because of …

Read More →
Map of USA: How Real Estate Trends affect the Lakes Region

How Real Estate Trends Affect the Lakes Region

New Hampshire’s Lakes Region & New Hampshire Can you believe a new analysis from Zillow …

Read More →
Laconia NH

Laconia, NH — A City on the Rise

The 17,000 resident “City on the Lakes” is nestled on the shores of three of …

Read More →
Two ice sailing enthusiasts on Lake Winnipesaukee.

Waterfront Sales Activity and Real Estate News

Here’s an update on the waterfront sales activity that we experienced over the past two …

Read More →
Tuftonboro, NH

Tuftonboro — “The Diamond in The Heart of New Hampshire”

Located just west of Wolfeboro, Tuftonboro is called “The Diamond in the Heart of New …

Read More →
Aerial view of Lake Winnisquam and Sanbornton, New Hampshire

The Rural Character of Sanbornton, New Hampshire

Sanbornton embodies all that one expects to find in an old New England town. This …

Read More →
Castle in The Clouds is one of Moultonborough's largest attractions.

Moultonborough’s 66 Miles of Shorefront Captivates

By landmass Moultonborough, NH is the largest lakefront community in the Lakes Region with 59.7 …

Read More →
Kevin Shaw - Roche Realty Group

Kevin Shaw of Roche Realty Group is Top Producer for 2021

Laconia— Frank Roche, president of Roche Realty Group with offices in Meredith and Laconia, recently …

Read More →
Wolfeboro, NH — The Oldest Summer Resort Town In America

Wolfeboro, NH — The Oldest Summer Resort Town In America

Wolfeboro: a Brief History Nestled in the foothills of the White Mountains and on the …

Read More →

Roche Realty Group Reports Record of $170 Million in Sales

Meredith- Frank Roche, President of Roche Realty Group, Inc, with offices in Meredith and Laconia, has …

Read More →
Meredith NH

Gilford and Meredith NH – How Do They Compare?

There are 25 towns and cities comprising the Lakes Region. This week I thought I …

Read More →

EM Heath, LLC Acquires 1084 Union Ave in Laconia

The future of Ace Hardware EM Heath LLC in Laconia became solidified this past week …

Read More →
Roche Realty Group Sells Landmark Commercial Building in Gilford, NH

Roche Realty Group Sells Landmark Gilford Commercial Building

Gilford- One of the most visible, historic landmark commercial properties in New Hampshire’s Lakes Region …

Read More →
New Commercial Constructioin in Lakes Region

Commercial Sales Increasing in the Lakes Region

Recently I’ve been outlining the sales activity for residential, waterfront, and multi-family apartments in the …

Read More →
Laconia NH Commercial Building Sale

New Owner for 8,447 Sqft. Commercial Building in Laconia

Laconia— Exciting news for the downtown Laconia district. Another substantial commercial building, including approximately 8,447 …

Read More →

Strong Demand for Multi-Family Apartments in NH’s Lakes Region

Last week I was driving through Loudon Road in Concord in the busy heights area, …

Read More →
NH Lake

Area Lakes Show Considerable Appreciation

Below you will find data and insight into what’s happening in sales activity on 8 …

Read More →
inflation in shopping center / grocery store

More Inflation Concerns

More Inflation Concerns I submitted an article a while ago titled “Is Our Current Inflation …

Read More →

Leave a Comment