Unique properties can come with unique challenges and considerations - rely on our experience to help you learn to handle them!
Waterfront Maintenance: Owning a lake home or cabin entails unique maintenance, particularly regarding waterfront upkeep. Regular inspections of docks, shorelines and water access points become essential to preserve these features against the natural elements. It is also important to know and understand the regulations regarding shoreline alterations and development.
Well and Septic System Care: Lake homes and cabins commonly rely on well and septic systems, requiring diligent maintenance. Regular checks, water quality testing and septic tank inspections become integral to ensure a safe and efficient water supply and waste disposal.
Seasonal Preparations: Unlike typical homes, lake homes and cabins demand specific seasonal preparations. From winterizing boat docks and water systems to safeguarding against snow and spring melts, owners need to anticipate and address seasonal changes that impact both the property and its surroundings.
Wildlife Interactions: Lakefront living often includes a closer interaction with wildlife. Property owners may need to implement measures to co-exist harmoniously, such as securing trash and other enticements to deter animals, and ensuring landscaping choices consider the local fauna.
Environmental Stewardship: Lake homes and cabins come with a responsibility to maintain and protect the natural environment. Owners may need to adhere to regulations governing lake use, such as avoiding certain fertilizers and pesticides to preserve water quality and the ecosystem. This environmental stewardship becomes a distinctive aspect of owning a lakefront property.
Other Considerations
Property and Lake Access: Many cabins and lake homes are accessible by road, and the lakes or waterways they are on are often accessible by boat launches maintained by local, state or federal government agencies. This is not always the case - some properties may only be accessible by boat, and some lakes may not have a maintained public water access. Make sure you are comfortable accessing the properties you are considering when shopping.
Utilities, Garbage, Internet and Mobile Phone Service: Many of us take access to power, heating, sewer, potable water, garbage service, internet and mobile phone service for granted. Some rural lake homes and cabins may not have access to these amenities. If these things are important to you, inquire with your realtor about which services and utilities the cabin or lake home you are considering can access.
Easements: Easements may allow parties other than the property owner water or road access. If easements show up in a cabin or lake homes parcel description or title report, make sure that you know who has the right to use the property, and why.
Zoning: Zoning may come in to play if owners intend to make improvements to their cabin or lake home. If the property is not zoned for seasonal dwellings, a variance may be required to make improvements to the property.
Flood Zones: Always inquire whether or not a cabin or lake home is located in a flood zone. If a structure is located within a flood zone, a flood insurance policy will be required in order to obtain financing.