Lakefront properties are a popular choice as a second home for the holidays.
However, if you are on the hunt for a lakefront home as your primary property, you are probably willing to adjust your lifestyle accordingly. Living by the side of a lake allows for plenty of nature-friendly activities, from trout fishing over the weekend to boat outings on a sunny day (you could even take your laptop to work from the lake if you get a good WiFi signal).
The pace of life is generally slow by the water, and it’s a great way to claim back all those lost stressful years spent in an urban landscape. Yet, a lakefront home has pros and cons that would surprise city dwellers. Here’s what you need to prepare for:
UNEXPECTED PROS
Plenty of natural light
If you’ve been living at the heart of a busy city until now, you might be familiar with all the tricks and tips to maximize direct sunlight inside your home. Large windows and effectively arrange furniture can let your apartment bathing in the sunlight at the right time of day.
For those who struggle with seasonal affective disorder, it can be a game-changer. But, when you relocate to a lakeside, sunlight is not an issue. Even with the presence of tall trees, you are likely to get plenty of direct light at home. SAD will become a memory of the past.
Soothing environment
Living in the city means you can get access to a variety of stores, venues, and services within a few yards of your home. However, your landscape tends to be gray, and the environment is typically loud, due to traffic noise, construction sites, close proximity to neighbors, and infrastructures.
Your lakefront home is a different kettle of fish. It is not only peaceful. It’s also in the middle of a soothing and relaxing natural environment. Natural lights helps normalize your Circadian cycle, helping your body and mind restore energy naturally. It encourages you to unplug, leaving electronic devices untouched as you wander in nature.
UNEXPECTED CONS
You need protection from the water
You may to realize it, but water is one of the main cause of land erosion. Rains and water movements can gradually erode the land by the lake, so your garden may feel like it’s constantly shrinking. If your property doesn’t have any protective structure in place such as a seawall construction, there’s nothing preventing future erosion damage.
According to current regulations, you can’t rebuild the land you are losing to the water. But, a shoreline wall will ensure that you do not lose any more property, keeping your home and garden safe.
Mosquitos and bugs are a pain
Water is refreshing. But in summer, it can attract bugs and mosquitos. The last thing you want is to be pestered by the incessant mosquito buzz at night. Therefore, it’s vital to protect your home against bug invasions, using fly screens and repellents. You can also find smart tech that is designed to emit frequencies that drive bugs away from your home, which can be a helpful addition.
Are you ready to embrace a new adventure and move to a lakefront home? Understanding the major differences in lifestyle and home maintenance are crucial to adapting your routine. There are pros and cons everywhere, so don’t let these affect your decision. On the contrary use them to prepare for a change of landscape successfully.