7 Lake House Must Haves: How to Make Your Waterfront Home More Fun
There are numerous reasons for buying a waterfront home, not the least of which might be a premium view. However, to make the most of upscale lakeside or riverfront property, buyers should perhaps consider the additional purchases and amenities that can truly elevate such a home to the status of a full-time "vacation-oriented retreat." Keep reading to discover some lake house must haves for your waterfront home.
Look Into Buying a Boat
Although a water view can be soothing, mesmerizing, dramatic, and awe-inspiring, no matter what the season, there is nothing like spending time "on the water" when the weather is warm and conditions are right. One of the advantages of living close to the water, of course, is the ability to cast aside your everyday concerns when the mood strikes, and there's no better way to do that than to cast off the lines and leave your cares behind as you set sail. Boat ownership, however, is an ongoing responsibility, and not all waterfront property is ideally suited for all types of boats. Before you jump into boat ownership and don that captain's hat, consider the following:
- Boats and watercraft are available in all shapes and sizes, and there is a huge difference between a single-person sailboat and a sleep-aboard power craft. It may also be that a canoe or kayak, a windsurf board, or a ski-doo will suit your recreational desires. Keep an open mind and investigate your options before deciding on the best boat for your individual needs.
- Check zoning and subdivision restrictions and requirements to see what size and type of vessels and watercraft are authorized.
- Choose the size and type of craft to suit your needs, preferences, and ability to handle the kind of vessel you select. Also, consider the training and safety requirements that might be associated.
- Ensure that dockage and storage are adequate and suitable for your boat and other water toys.
- Check on usage rules, insurance requirements, damage waivers, and get answers to all your financial and legal concerns before you commit, particularly if you will be required to install a dock or ramp on or adjacent to your property.
Many homebuyers looking at waterfront properties are interested in boating, so this is one of the most common questions to ask before buying a waterfront property. Your local real estate agent is likely to be familiar with the local regulations and answer any questions you may have.
Get Geared Up for Fishing
Any angler will no doubt be able to recount the unequalled pleasure derived from spending a day on the water, whether lazily drifting or actively pursuing that dream catch. If you're an avid enthusiast, you should, by all means, indulge your passion and find proper gear so that you can fish any time you please, whether it's from your own shore, your own boat, or a public ramp or legendary "fishing hole" nearby. Talk to local guides and local veterans of the sport to determine what kind of fishing is most popular in the area.
Taking up fishing is a natural choice if you live on or near water. But, as with boats, there are many types of fishing. Casting a line from the shore requires different skills and equipment than are needed if you fish while trolling. Lake fishing differs greatly from river fishing, and salt-water fishing is a different sport entirely.
If you purchased your waterfront property with fishing in mind, chances are you already know the basics. What remains, then, is for you to ensure that you have the licenses, rods and reels, lures, lines, bobbers, tools, and associated equipment that you'll need. If you're a newcomer to the area, the best way to begin is to search out a fishing club or marina and ask for advice. You're sure to find local anglers willing to educate you.
Optimize the View with Glass Doors and Large Windows
This may sound like a given—you wouldn't be looking for a home with the best water views if you had no intention of gazing at the water. But, if your new home currently doesn't take full advantage of the view that's available, there are some steps you can take to maximize the impact.
Assess both your home's orientation and its interior. If you have a wooded lot, don't hesitate to trim or even cut an existing tree or two to better frame a stunning view. If your windows are too small to capture a dramatic vista, or if exterior doors inhibit a broader view of the water, consider enlarging existing windows or installing glass doors to expand your vistas. Work with an imaginative team, including an architect or home designer, interior designer, and a builder or remodeler, so that your waterfront home can truly become the showplace that you envision.
Think about adding an expansive deck to enhance your outdoor view further or searching for a home with a sundeck. With modern materials, including glass-panel railings, you can be assured that the view will remain the focus of both the indoor and outdoor living spaces at your waterfront home.
Create Outdoor Living Spaces
It's entirely true that dream homes never simply spring unaided out of the ground. They require innovative design and extensive planning. Homes with outdoor living spaces that capture the views and offer multi-season appeal are as artistic as they are functional. Use landscaping and hardscape features like stone walls, paved walkways, and expansive decks or balconies to define spaces, and focus on the view-filled sightlines to create an illusion of more space and a distant horizon.
Create varied spots for people to gather—a patio with an adjacent garden dining area, a shaded sitting room with comfortable lounges, or a "boathouse" party pavilion that allows you and your guests to dip your toes in the water and enjoy the sunset are all fantastic ideas.
Your options are limited only by the configuration of your lot and the extent of your imagination. Create a wish list and craft a plan to shape your backyard oasis in phases. Achieving your dream might take some time, but the result is sure to be worth the wait!
Stock Up on Fun Things to Do at a Lake House
At your idyllic lake house retreat, you should never find a shortage of delightful activities to keep your crew entertained. From making a splash with water toys and telling stories around a crackling bonfire to making the best out of a rainy day, it's easy to have fun things to do at your lake house if you stay stocked up on these essential items.
Best Water Toys for Your Lake House
When you're spending a lazy day lounging by the lake, having the right water toys can take your experience to the next level.
Inflatable kayaks are versatile and easy to transport, making them a great option for exploring the lake or taking a leisurely paddle. Stand-up paddleboards are perfect for those looking for a bit of a workout while enjoying the water. And floating mats provide a fun and relaxing spot to soak up the sun while floating on the gentle waves. With these water toys at your disposal, you'll have everything you need to make the most of your time at the lake house.
Fun When the Sun Goes Down
There's nothing quite like a cozy bonfire on a crisp night at the lake. To make sure you're always prepared for impromptu bonfire hangouts, there are a few supplies that every lake house owner should keep on hand.
First and foremost, you'll need plenty of firewood. It's also a good idea to have some kindling and matches or a lighter on hand to get the fire started.
Don't forget about the seating! If you have a built-in fireplace, furnish the perimeter with top-quality outdoor furniture. You can also keep a stash of folding chairs and blankets to accommodate extra people. Finally, don't forget the marshmallows, graham crackers, and chocolate for making s'mores - a quintessential treat for any bonfire hangout.
Rain, Rain, Don't Go Away!
While sunny days are perfect for swimming, boating, and soaking up the sun at the lake, rainy days can be just as enjoyable with the right activities. Don't get caught unprepared when the clouds roll in. Keep a collection of indoor activities to keep the fun going when the rain is pouring.
A great option is to play games or cards. You could also curl up with a good book or watch a movie. Either way, it helps to keep an ongoing collection of both. You can browse local thrift shops to find cheap novels, DVDs, and board games.
For those feeling more active, indoor activities like yoga, stretching, or even a game of indoor basketball can be a great way to pass the time. And if you're feeling crafty, why not try your hand at some DIY projects or baking?
Do You Have All Your Lake House Essentials Ready?
Buying a home with a view and water access can represent the best of all possible worlds: an enviable "vacation retreat" that you'll be delighted to enjoy every day! Once you've found purchased a home in the best waterfront neighbourhoods, you can fill it up with these lake house essentials to truly elevate your lifestyle.
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