Who Buys Lakefront Property?

For many of us, the idea of owning lakefront property with a home overlooking the water is a dream we’ve had since the first time we went fishing or swimming. And it’s a dream we haven’t let go of as we’ve grown older. The dichotomy of being so close to so many fun activities yet seemingly in the middle of nowhere is something that shouldn’t be possible.

And yet Lake George, and the entire Adirondack region, is full of terrific lakefront homes and property, with hundreds of them for sale on any given day. But before you decide to put an offer in to buy one of these homes, take a moment to decide if a lakefront home is actually right for you.

Benefits of Lakefront Property

  • On most warm days you can just wake up, open the screen door and jump in the lake for a swim
  • And on a cold day you can open the door (and be sure to close it behind you) and walk out onto the ice for some ice fishing
  • No need to look for lake access for your canoe or kayak (and no need for a roof rack either)
  • Peacefulness of a calm lake during a sunset
  • Many lakefront homes are well-off the main roads, so there’s quite a bit of piece and quiet

Reasons Lakefront Property May Not Be Right For You

  • Certain lakefront property can be difficult to access – it may take longer to get to places than you realize
  • It may be difficult to navigate driveways that are windy when covered in snow or ice
  • You’re not the only one who loves the lake – they’ll be times when you wished boats stopped passing by
  • Lakes are a popular place for celebrations – many towns use the water to bring in tourists, as well as the backdrop for firework shows
  • It can be rather harsh in the Winter along the shore when wind sweeps across a frozen lake

Questions To Ask Yourself Before Looking At Lakefront Property

  • Can I handle having to plan a bit more time to run errands?
  • If there is a major snowstorm, am I okay being stuck for part (or most) of a day?
  • Do I want (or need) a lakefront home all year long, or can I get by with renting for a week or month at a time?
  • Am I really looking for a home on the lake, or am I more concerned with having access to the lake?

Still unsure if a lakefront home is best for you? Please give me a call. I’m happy to talk about my experiences with home buyers and sellers here in Lake George, and what people who made good choices for themselves have in common.