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Choosing a Lakeside Lot for a House

Writer's picture: PaulPaul

Choosing the right lot is the critical first step in creating your dream lake house. To make the most of your investment, here are five key considerations to guide your decision:


1. Buy the View

The view is paramount when selecting a lakeside lot. Ideally, you’ll want a site with a southern or western orientation. A southern view ensures that the lawn between your house and the lake is bathed in sunlight throughout the day. A western view offers warm afternoon sun and the added bonus of sunset views over the water. If you can, stay away from a north facing lot, which can feel darker and cooler. Of course, you can still enjoy sunshine out on the water. Prioritize a view that brings joy every time you look out the window. All the lots at developments like The Homesteads at Reynolds Lake Oconee provide a lake view, but each lot is oriented differently along the shore and could result in drastic differences in your day to day access to sunshine!

This contemporary lake house takes advantage of southern views from the projecting screened porch. The screened porch also has sunset views along its broad side in the evening.
This contemporary lake house takes advantage of southern views from the projecting screened porch. The screened porch also has sunset views along its broad side in the evening.

2. Consider the Trees on the Property

Trees are a beautiful part of any natural setting, but they require consideration. Are there trees on neighboring properties that could block sunlight in potential outdoor living areas like a pool? Similarly, investigate the setback from the lake—many lakes have significant setbacks imposed by entities like the Army Corps of Engineers or power companies. Trees within these setbacks may require special permits for trimming or removal, which could impact your plans for landscaping or views.

This west-facing house has incredible sunset views from its lake-facing porches and decks.
This west-facing house has incredible sunset views from its lake-facing porches and decks.

3. Understand Setbacks and Buildable Area

A property survey is essential. It will outline setbacks imposed on the property, which dictate how close you can build to the water, to property lines, or other features. These restrictions can significantly reduce the buildable footprint of an otherwise large lot. Understanding these limitations upfront ensures your dream lake house can actually be realized on the site.


4. Check for Sewer or Septic Requirements

Many lakeside properties are not connected to city sewer systems. If the lot relies on a septic system, a soil percolation test will be required to determine how many bedrooms the system can support. The results of this test directly influence the design and size of your future home. If you want 5 bedrooms, you need to know ahead of time if the lot will support a 5 bedroom septic system. Don’t skip this step—it’s better to know early whether the lot can accommodate your vision.


5. Identify Natural Low Spots and Wetlands

Lakes, whether natural or man-made, exist in low areas of the landscape where water naturally collects. If the property has low spots with standing water or marshy vegetation, ask questions about potential wetland preservation requirements. Wetlands can limit where and how you can build. Even if wetland regulations don’t apply, standing water might indicate drainage issues or unsuitable conditions for a septic system. Every lot is unique, so it’s important to do your due diligence.


The Path to Peace of Mind

This list may seem technical, but these considerations are crucial to ensuring a sound lakeside investment. The right lot will give you peace of mind—especially for a home that may not be occupied year-round. You don’t want to arrive after weeks away to discover an unnoticed issue has worsened over time.


Once you’ve chosen the perfect lot, you can move on to the exciting part: designing and building your dream lake house. By laying a solid foundation with a thoughtful lot selection, you’ll set the stage for years of enjoyment and serenity by the water.

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