Dreaming of buying a lakeside home can be truly idyllic, as you imagine the lifestyle of gentle lapping waves and breathtaking water views. However, there are several considerations to think about before taking the plunge. Here are some things to mull over:
Understanding the Lakefront Market
Lakefront properties near Lee’s Summit offer a blend of natural beauty and modern living. The city’s most popular lake, Lake Jacomo, is a natural location to search for that lakeside property you’ve been dreaming about. But before diving into the market, it’s crucial to understand that lakefront homes typically come with a price tag because of their desirable location and the limited number of properties available. Each lake will offer different amenities as far as boating and fishing and which recreational opportunities are allowed.
Assessing Property Values and Trends
Just as with any property, lakefront home property values can fluctuate based on location, size, and lake accessibility. It benefits you to work with a real estate agent who has plenty of experience in lakefront properties. They are able to provide you with detailed market analyses and to help you understand the current trends. Even with high interest rates dampening some buyer’s enthusiasm, lakefront properties are a little more insulated from market fluctuations due to their desirability.
Understanding Zoning and Regulations
Properties located along a lake are subject to specific zoning regulations and environmental protections, designed to protect the natural beauty and health of the lake ecosystem. Be sure to become familiar with the local zoning laws, building restrictions, and any shoreline restrictions. These rules may impact any changes or renovations you hope to make once you purchase the property.
Location is Key
The location of your lakefront home is paramount. One of the first factors to consider is water quality. You will want to research the lake’s water quality to make sure it’s suitable for swimming, boating, and fishing if those are your hopes. Proximity to amenities is another consideration if you desire to be close to shopping, restaurants, hospitals, and other essential services. Also, investigate noise levels if the lake is a popular spot for others who enjoy recreating.
Checking Access and Safety
Evaluate the ease of accessing the water from the property you are interested in. Make sure there are safe, reliable paths to the water and that the property complies with local safety regulations. Railing, stairs, and dock conditions are all items you will want to evaluate to ensure safe access to the lake.
A Few Popular Spots Near Lee’s Summit
Lakewood
This beautiful master-planned community surrounds a picturesque 365-acre lake with homes ranging from $400,000 – into the millions, depending on the location and proximity to the lake. Being a ‘no-wake’ lake, you are assured to have a peaceful day on your pontoon, kayak, or sailboat when you take it out. Lakewood offers boat slips for property owners, though you will want to put your name on a waiting list in order to gain a slip.
Lake Lotawana
Being a private lake with 27 miles of shoreline, only homeowners who have a home on the lake can gain access to the water. The options to enjoy the lake are abundant, including pontoon boating, kayaking and canoeing, water skiing and tubing, speed boating, ice boating, fish tournaments, and more.
Raintree Lake
Boasting over 2,000 properties, Raintree Lake has many amenities for its residents to enjoy. With over 7.5 miles of walking trails along the private shoreline, fishing stocked largemouth bass, white crappie, channel catfish, and bluegill, enjoying the delight of high-speed boating, or swimming at one of the nine protected swim docks, this community truly has it all.
Lake Tapawingo
Being a smaller community with 375 homes, Lake Tapawingo is a quaint area with many residents having lived here for decades. Lake Tapawingo became their own city in 1962 but is zoned for the Blue Springs School District. Waterskiing, wakeboarding, sailing, and fishing are a few of the activities that are enjoyed on this 87-acre lake. There is even a ski course for competitive skiers at Lake Tapawingo.
If you’re ready to find the lakefront property you’ve always dreamed about, reach out to us today to find your ideal lakefront home.