Owning lakefront real estate is appealing to many people. However, before you find your lakeside home, it’s best to weigh the pros and cons. Below is an overview of the benefits and drawbacks of owning a property on the water. 

Pros:

Tranquility of Nature

One major attraction of owning a lakeside home is the opportunity to be surrounded by nature. Whether you’re looking for a retirement property or a second home to escape to, the tranquility of a lakefront property can have physical and emotional health benefits to improve your quality of life. 

Good Investment 

Lakefront properties have always been considered wise real estate investments. As well as having the selling point of a waterside location, lakeside homes tend to go up in value because the amount of land set next to water is limited. Many people view a lakefront residence as a long-term asset that will benefit their children and grandchildren.

Access to Water Sports 

Lakes provide plenty of opportunities for recreational activities such as fishing, sailing, and other water sports. Lakeside properties usually have access to areas with abundant nature around the lake, which means you can also enjoy activities like hiking, birdwatching, or hunting. 

Cons:

Higher Purchase Costs

Because owning land beside a lake has such wide-ranging appeal, lakeside residences typically have a high real estate value and higher purchase costs. Although waterfront properties will likely appreciate over time, some people are cautious about paying the initial costs. However, your real estate agent can help you find options that suit your budget. 

Possibly Smaller Lot Sizes

Zoning can be different in lakeside areas compared to other locations. Some waterfront lot sizes are smaller due to the high value of the land, or because the homes are often used as vacation destinations or retirement properties, rather than being permanent family residences. In many lakeside locations, though, there will be a range of lot sizes to choose from.

Remote Properties

Finding somewhere secluded to escape to is often a major reason why people choose lakeside homes, so many properties are remote. One possible issue with remote areas is access. If you want the best of both worlds, consider a lakefront home in Eagle Lake, CA, which has a serene natural setting while offering clear road access. 

If you’re looking for your ideal lakefront home, Heritage Land Co. in Susanville, CA, will help you to find the perfect real estate solution. Having operated since 1971, they specialize in properties around Eagle Lake, which is California’s second-largest natural lake. They offer beautiful vacation rentals as well as residential homes. To learn more about their listings, call (530) 825-2131 or visit their website.