Purchasing a lake lot is a great way to build your custom lake home situated exactly how you want on your property. When ever we show lake homes to potential buyers, they always consider the work they are going to have to do to personalize the property. Sometimes it’s only painting and a few cosmetic changes, other times, bigger modifications bring a substantial price tag and an extended renovation timeline. If you are the type of person who has a definitive style, purchasing a lake lot is probably a better decision than buying someone else’s lake house.

1. INSURANCE COSTS
While purchasing a home on the lake isn’t as risky as the ocean, there might be additional insurance costs. It’s always a good idea to get a quote before signing so you know exactly what your monthly payment will be.

2. WORK WITH AN EXPERIENCED REALTOR
Work with an agent who is knowledgeable about the lake and the surrounding area. Your agent should be aware of future developments in the area that may impact your decision to buy a lot in a certain location. If you are looking for a quiet spot on the lake, your realtor will know about boat traffic and noise from waterfront attractions. Lesia Waldrep is a Wedowee native and knows the lake very well!

3. RESEARCH LAKE LEVELS
Lakes in this part of the country are typically manmade, Lake Wedowee (Harris Lake) is one of them. Because of this, recreation is not their primary purpose, they were built for electricity production and managing the seasonal fluctuations in river flow. You’ll notice levels in the winter are lower than in the summer when the lake should be at its full level. Droughts affect lakes differently, depending on the slope of your lakefront property, you may want to consider a dock with a lift to prevent damage to your boat if lake levels drop. Click here to see the current lake level.

4. WATCH OUT FOR HIDDEN FEES
Utilities on the lake might be higher than you expected. There can also be association fees, fees for a dock or other use of the shoreline. Again, this is where having an experienced Realtor can make a big difference. It’s better to ask than to be surprised after you have already purchased your lake lot.

5. EXAMINE YOUR PROPERTY CLOSELY
Make a few trips to your lake lot before purchasing. Walk the property several times and bring a contractor. Have discussions about how a home might be situated on the property for the best views. Discuss how you will access the lake. Many of the homes on Lake Wedowe feature a garage that opens up to a boat ramp making winter boat storage easy. Visualize how you will use the property and make sure your list of wants is feasible. It’s also a good idea to approach the property from a boat for an additional view.