How to Find and Acquire a Lake House in the Lakes Region—Part 2

Post written by Frank Roche, President, Roche Realty Group, Inc.



So now that you’ve defined your search for a lake house, what’s the next step?


Decide the distance. How far from your primary home?
Lakes are all over the U.S. A lake in NH will likely freeze over in the winter offering you different sports like ice skating, ice fishing, ice boating, snowmobiling, and cross-country skiing. While a lake in Florida, Georgia, or the Carolinas may be warmer, you limit yourself to no winter activities and the plant growth and habitat will not be as pristine as NH due to the extreme heat.

The consensus is that a 2-3 hour drive from home seems manageable. If you purchase something 6-8 hours away will family and friends use it as well? So driving distance and traffic concerns must be considered for others. How close is the nearest airport and how’s the schedule look for incoming flights? Manchester NH Airport is so convenient and easy to use. For private planes Laconia/Gilford Airport is perfect.



What size lake is important?
If you’re an avid boater and love exploring different towns, islands, and restaurants a lake the size of Winnipesaukee offers more variety and places to visit than a 300-1,000 acre lake. For others, the peacefulness, tranquility, and calm waters of a small lake or pond fit the bill better. You can still enjoy playing with your grandchildren on a small beach, go fishing with them, and take in some aerobic exercise while kayaking.

In addition to Lake Winnipesaukee there are 273 lakes, ponds, and rivers to enjoy in NH’s “Lakes Region.” www.RocheRealty.com is a great resource to start your search…Simply click “NH Lakes” for photos, lake statistics, and listings to provide you with a great overview, from 79 acre scenic ponds to the “Big Lake” with 44,568 acres and 274 islands.



Find an agent who “knows” the lakes intimately.
Think about it. There are hundreds of Realtors® out there. They all sell real estate. How many of them have lived on a lake, lived lakeside in a water access community, or lived on an island? When you select a doctor I’m sure you research how many procedures they’ve performed in their specialty. There are many Realtors® who have never driven a boat, never mind own one. There are many technical questions relating to the Shoreland Protection Act, dock permitting, and aquatic lake plants that need explanation. So to ensure a seamless closing and ultimately a sound investment seek the services of a professional Realtor® with a solid background in “Lake Property Sales.”

To be continued in Part 3. Don’t miss it!