Building a lake house is a dream that many people have and you may be in the consideration stage or you’re ready to start planning. Either way, we have some tips to help you through the process. While there’s still plenty of lake property available in South Carolina, it can be daunting to find the right piece of land on which to build.  As an experience builder, we’ll help you find the ideal property, the right home design, and guide you through every other crucial piece of the lake home building process.

Lake house overlooking Lake Keowee

 

Finding land suitable for building a lake house

Not all ready-to-build lots are truly ready to build on, or even available to build on. If you’re unsure about a piece of lakefront property that you’ve found for sale, do your due diligence and have it evaluated by an experienced Lake Keowee builder. By partnering with a reputable builder that has waterfront land specialists, you’ll find a quality lot suitable for building a lake house.

Partner with an experienced builder

Building a custom home is a huge undertaking and building a lake house requires a certain level of expertise. To ensure a successful outcome, find a builder that has built other homes on similar lots. There may be characteristics of a property that dictate the type and size of the home, how it will be situated on the lot, the landscaping, and more. This isn’t a job for a novice builder; you need the A-team for this endeavor.

Lake Keowee custom built home from home builders in SC

Consider the view from every room

If you’re building a lake house for the views, keep this in mind as you design your home. Do you want the main living areas to have a view of the lake? What about the master bedroom or upstairs gathering areas? You’ll need to think about the desired layout of your new home. Your builder can help optimize it for the view of the lake and the land around it.

Research the lake itself and be sure it meets your needs

Dreaming of spending your time boating, fishing, paddling, jet skiing, or swimming? First off, make sure the lake supports all the forms of water recreation you enjoy. Second, do your research and find out the rules of the lake itself. You want to build a house on a lake that meets your criteria; working with a knowledgeable Lake Keowee builder can answer any questions that you may have. This resource will provide additional information about Lake Keowee and and the surrounding area.

Dock on Lake Keowee from custom home builders in SC

Total Quality Home Builders specialize in waterfront properties

Looking for that lake home expert who can make your dream home a reality? Total Quality Home Builders specializes in building lake houses in South Carolina along the shores of Lake Keowee. Precision design, eclectic style, and quality craftsmanship come together to bring you the lake home you’ve always wanted. Partner with an experienced builder and make your lake home the epitome of beauty and comfort. Contact Total Quality Home Builders today: (864) 868-5253.

Lake Keowee is one of the best-kept secrets in South Carolina. And because of this, there is still Lake Keowee land for sale that’s available for building. While the lake has been around for years and people have enjoyed it for recreational purposes, not everyone is aware of the real estate opportunities that have arisen in recent years and even months. If you’re looking for an ideal place to build a lake home, here are five reasons you’ll never regret building on Lake Keowee.  

Waterfall at Oconee Station Falls

Property value will only go upAs the available land is sold, eventually there won’t be any more new lots. Only so much of the area around the lake can be used for residential purposes. If you buy land and build a lake home on Lake Keowee, you’re sure to recoup the value and then some upon resale.  

The Beauty of the LakeLake Keowee is known for its clear, emerald green waters and picturesque scenery. Rolling hills, lush forests, and mountain views in the distance won’t disappoint. Wake up every morning to the beautiful landscape and serene waters and you’ll never get tired of it.  

The Convenience of the LocationLiving on Lake Keowee puts you in close proximity to the city of Greenville as well as Clemson University. Greenville is currently one of the fastest-growing US cities with a strong job market, making it ideal for young professionals. Clemson University offers opportunities for educationentertainment, and more 

Recreational Opportunities. If you enjoy lake activities, you can do it all on Lake Keowee. Boating, fishing, jet-skiing, paddling, waterskiing, wakeboarding, swimming, and more are possible on the lake. Drive your boat to a waterfall cove, cut your engine, and drift a while. Or get up the courage to try the Jumping Rock” and take the plunge into the deep, clear water.  

Variety of Real Estate Available. Whether you’re looking for a lakefront lot, a lake view lot, a wooded lot, or an elevated mountain view lot, there’s Lake Keowee land for sale that is ideal for wide variety of preferences and budgets. If you want your own lake access, spring for the lakefront lot so you can have an individual dock and you won’t regret it.  

Aerial view of Lake Keowee

Reasons You Won’t Regret Building a Custom Lake Home with Total Quality Home Builders 

Besides these five reasons to build a home on Lake Keowee, there are just as many reasons and more to build your custom home with Total Quality Home Builders.  

  • Total Quality will help you find Lake Keowee land for sale as soon as it’s available.  
  • Your home will be completely customized down to every last detail. 
  • The design of your home will be cutting edge and incorporate the latest technology.  
  • Total Quality has plenty of experience building homes on lakefront land.  
  • Your home will stand the test of time in style and craftsmanship. 

Call Total Quality Home Builders today and reserve your spot on the shores of one of South Carolina’s most desired lakes: (864) 868-5253.  

 

Lake Keowee SC

Lake Keowee is a favorite summertime destination for people across the southeast. In fact, theres barely a reason to leave the lake in the summers. But its hard to find anything more beautiful than fall in Lake Keowee, too. When summer lounging on the lake slows down, there are still so many outdoor activities to enjoy in beautiful Lake Keowee. If youre looking for homes for sale on Lake Keowee, the time is right as fall approaches.

Named for the man-made lake on which it sits, the community sits at the highest peak in South Carolina, right at the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. And its a homebuyers dream come true. Outdoor enthusiasts looking for homes for sale on Lake Keowee will fall in love with all there is to do.

Oscar Wigington Scenic Byway

Oscar Wigington Scenic Byway

Autumn is comfortable and cool at Lake Keowee, which makes it a haven for outdoor recreational activities you might avoid during the summer heat. Invite your friends and family for a weekend getaway: camping in the mountains. Feeling adventurous? Then try rafting on the nearby Chattooga River. Or for something a little more subdued, sit outside with a cup of coffee and a book to enjoy a quiet morning on the lake.

If youre a golfer, check out any number of Lake Keowee golf communities. Youll find everything from retirement communities with great courses to private, luxury courses designed by Jack Nicklaus. Theres truly a place for every level of golfer.

The Cliffs at Keowee Falls golf course

The Cliffs at Keowee Falls golf course

And youll love the views. Whether youre at the riverfront or relaxing with the sights of the fall foliage and colors of the mountains in the distance, youll find breathtaking vistas everywhere you look. Take a scenic drive to enjoy the colors, or go hiking and explore the regions many waterfalls up close.

Plus, youll be in close proximity to arts, culture, and other amenities you wont want to miss. Enjoy an evening at the Walhalla Performing Arts Center. Stop by Seneca or Walhalla to explore museums, dine at a new restaurant, or check out live music. Or, trek into Clemson for some tailgating and unforgettable football.

Chattooga River

Chattooga River

Want to get a taste for what its like to live here? Taking the time to start searching for homes for sale on Lake Keowee this fall might be perfect. Once you experience it for yourself, we have an idea youll never want to leave.

entertainment room in lake keowee real estate home

The key to decorating a lake home is to accentuate the beauty of the outdoors without distracting from it. Lake Keowee real estate is booming as more home sites and lake homes become available. Whether you’re building a new home on the lake or redecorating the one you have, here are some ideas to make your home stylish and unique while accenting the incredible view of the water.

White isn’t just for beach houses. In general, white tends to be associated with coastal homes, but current trends are bringing the bright, airy feel of white to lake homes, as well. White will make your home feel bright, clean, and roomy. Add your favorite accent colors to trim, furniture, wall hanging, and accessories.

Focus on the view. The layout of the room should pull you toward the view of the lake. Arrange furniture, wall art, rugs, etc. so that the focus directs your gaze out the window. The view of the lake is one of your Lake Keowee real estate’s best features, so be sure to show it off as much as possible.

Windows are everything. Whether you’re designing a brand new lake home or renovating an existing one, be sure to incorporate a window design that showcases the full extent of the beauty that is your lake view. Think floor-to-ceiling windows in the living room, dining room, and any other room that faces the water.

living room with window view

Keep window treatments minimal. When it comes to window treatments for your waterfront windows, less is more. Don’t block the natural light and view with heavy or dark curtains. If you require a bit of privacy, use light filtering curtains in neutral colors that won’t distract from the natural view of your Lake Keowee real estate.

Bring the outdoors inside color-wise. For a more seamless transition from the inside out, use natural colors like greens, browns, and beiges.

Think practical. Lake living can sometimes be messy. Keep durability in mind when choosing flooring, rugs, and upholstery. A little dirt or moisture shouldn’t be able to ruin your décor.

Bring in natural light. Skylights, large windows, and high ceilings all allow plenty of natural light into your home. Not only will your home look brighter, but you’ll also save energy.

warm and inviting deck with windows and natural colors

Embrace the rustic feel. It can be fun to go with a rustic theme in your lake house, especially when it’s a vacation home and not your primary residence. Woodsy tones and simplistic furniture pieces and décor help a lake house to feel authentic.

Include a room with a 3-wall view. Consider a sunroom, den, or breakfast nook that has three walls of windows overlooking the lake. You can’t beat a 180-degree view of your Lake Keowee real estate.

Elaborate on outdoor living spaces. Focus on the outdoor areas as much as the indoors when you have such beautiful scenery. A deck, patio, or gazebo that is large enough for lounging and dining will likely be one of your most lived-in areas.

Lake Keowee Real Estate is Highly Desired

At this time there are existing homes and ready-to-build homesites available on Lake Keowee. Total Quality Home Builders and Waterfront Properties specializes in Lake Keowee real estate and building custom lake homes. When you have a vision for your dream lake home, Total Quality can design a home that includes all of your ideas and reflects your own personal style. Call (864) 868-5253 to schedule a free consultation.

Aerial view of Lake Keowee

What’s all the hype about? Why does it seem like everyone is moving to Lake Keowee, SC? Lake living, while it has always been desirable, seems to be gaining popularity. If you’re wondering why people are moving to Lake Keowee, consider the following reasons. And if you’re interested in finding some Lake Keowee waterfront land for sale, call Total Quality Home Builders and Waterfront Properties.

Custome home on Lake Keowee

  • Natural beauty. Although Lake Keowee is a manmade reservoir, you most likely wouldn’t know it. The lake itself, as well as the land and forests around it, are beautiful and full of wildlife. A wide variety of trees grow from evergreen to deciduous, along with many other indigenous plants and wildflowers. The lake is home to hundreds of species of fish and amphibians and the forests are full of mammals and birds.
  • Recreation. A major advantage to Lake Keowee is its size. A large, wide-bodied lake, it is ideal for boating, jet skiing, water skiing, fishing, paddling, and many other water sports. There are some popular swimming spots such as “The Jumping Rock” where swimmers enjoy jumping into the lake from the top of a large boulder. Waterfall Cove is a popular spot where boaters turn off their engines and just float, enjoying the sound of the gushing water. Hiking and biking trails surround the lake for those who may prefer to stay on land.
  • Climate. Experience all four seasons here, with the advantage of milder winters and summers. You won’t see much snow at Lake Keowee, but summers are less humid, making it more pleasant than other parts of the state. When you start your search for your perfect spot on the lake, work with the TQ team and browse all of Lake Keowee waterfront land for sale.
  • Clean water. Lake Keowee is known for its clear green waters. In fact, it’s one of the cleanest lakes in the entire US. This is in part due to the efforts of the community to keep it clean and the fact that its water source is Lake Jocassee which receives clear mountain runoff water.
  • Proximity to the city. Greenville is a thriving local city. It was included on CNN’s list of the top ten fastest-growing cities in the US, number 3 on Bloomberg’s list of cities offering the strongest job market, and the 13th best city for young professionals according to Forbes. You can easily live on Lake Keowee and commute to Greenville for work.
  • Proximity to Clemson University. The University offers many benefits from jobs to continuing education opportunities to art experiences. Living close to an esteemed institute of higher education is a positive for any community.

There you have it. 6 great reasons you should start looking now for Lake Keowee waterfront land for sale.

Landscaping of custom home on lake keowee

Buy or Build on Lake Keowee with Total Quality Home Builders and Waterfront Properties

Whether you’re looking for an existing home or land to build on, Total Quality can help. Specializing in custom home building and real estate, TQ will find you Lake Keowee waterfront land for sale that meets not only your needs but also your wants. Call today: (864) 868-5253.

home builder in the Cliffs Communities

One of the first things people notice when looking at any home is its exterior curb appeal. A perfectly manicured lawn with vibrant plants, stone walkways, and big trees bring a distinct beauty to any home. Yet beyond the pleasantness, you feel when you see a home with great curb appeal are the benefits that come along with it: great landscaping can actually add value to your home.

In fact, the right landscaping can enhance the value of your home by thousands of dollars, and sometimes more if youve invested heavily in it. It’s value youll enjoy while you own your custom home. But its also value that will pay for itself if you choose to sell.

At the same time, some landscaping—if its badly designed or executed, poorly maintained, or if it doesnt fit the aesthetic of your home—can actually devalue the property. As you look for a home builder in the Cliffs Communities, we suggest you consider the following to keep your curb appeal at its best.

1. Touch up the Edging

Edging is well worth the effort. While this simple step can often be overlooked in favor of bigger projects, simply adding a clear trim to the edges of your lawn, including the slim spaces between your beds and lawn, is one of the easiest ways to boost your homes curb appeal. A neatly trimmed edge makes a lawn look beautifully maintained with minimal effort.

home builder in the Cliffs Communities

 

2. Freshen up your Mulching

Mulch is a great addition to your landscape on many levels. Not only is it an inexpensive way to create contrast between your flower beds and lawn, but its also a great way to keep weeds at bay. Plus, mulch helps protect your plants in extreme weather—both drought and frost—to keep them healthy.

3. Use Intentional Design

Theres nothing more appealing than a landscaping plan that highlights the beauty of your home. This intentional design is created to make your property look unified throughout. Too often, homeowners add affordable plants without considering an overall concept for their property. Rather than take your chances, which often results in your home and grounds having two disparate looks, its smart to plan one unified design that makes your home look incredible. Any credible home builder in the Cliffs Communities will either create an intentional design for your home or suggest you consult with a landscaping company to create your dream look.

home builder in the Cliffs Communities

4. Create a Seasonal Balance

Were big believers that your home should look beautiful no matter what the season. Thats why its so important to plan your landscaping to shift with the seasonal life cycles. After all, theres beauty to enjoy throughout the year, not just in a three-week timeframe where spring flowers bloom. An exceptional landscape design will bring in a beautiful seasonal balance, regardless of the time of year. Your home builder in the Cliffs Communities or landscaping company will have recommendations for every season youre in your home.

5. Bring in Flowering Perennials

Looking for a pop of dramatic beauty? An affordable, but bold statement can be made with flowering perennials. Choose the plants that best fit the architecture of your home and hang them or drop them into pots around both the interior and exterior to keep your home looking fresh and appealing. This is especially helpful if youre looking to sell and need a quick, easy way to stage your home.

6. Plant Some Trees

Trees can add value to your home by increasing the aesthetic value of your property and blocking wind and sun to keep energy costs at bay. If youre looking to add the right trees to your property, just keep in mind that some trees will be higher maintenance than others. Do your homework to choose the best trees for your location.

7. Add a Retaining Wall or other Built Features

Features like retaining walls, patios, terraces, and sculptural focal points often have a great return on investment for your home. However, keep in mind that theyll also be costly to install, replace, or upgrade. But because theyre so aesthetically pleasing, if you have any of these elements in your budget, its typically worth the expense for years of enjoyment. If youre looking for that perfect home builder in the Cliffs Communities, don’t forget to plan for these investments before your home is complete.

home builder in the Cliffs Communities

When Landscaping Could become a Problem

Are you thinking of selling your home? You might want to think about the work youve put into your landscaping. Keep in mind that some prospective buyers may be intimidated by immaculate gardens that require major upkeep. While it may be your passion, others may consider it a chore. In other words, if youre landscaping simply to add value to your property, you might want to reconsider and invest in other areas of your home.

Custom Home Builder in the Cliffs Communities

Make your dream home a reality with Total Quality Home Builders. We can assist you with finding the perfect lake view lot for custom home building. Start your journey to living on the beautiful shores of Lake Keowee. Contact us today (864) 868-5253.

Does the idea of buying lakefront property sound heavenly to you? There are many reasons why lakefront property in South Carolina is so highly coveted. From the fresh air, sunshine, and calming sounds of a lake to the very real health benefits, lake living has many benefits. If you’re thinking of exploring lake property in South Carolina, here are 5 things you should consider when you start your search.

Custom lakefront property built on Lake Keowee

Purpose of buying lakefront property

Are you looking for a vacation home or a primary residence? Identifying your main reason for buying lakefront property makes a difference in hunting process. If you’re planning on a vacation home, you may want something smaller than your primary residence for just your immediate family to get away, or something bigger so you can vacation with family and friends. A vacation home can be a little more remote, whereas a primary residence may need to be more conveniently located for commuting to work and school.

Existing home or custom build

Do you plan on buying lakefront property that meets your needs? Or would you rather find a lot you like and have a custom home built on the property? Finding an existing home is typically faster, but may require some renovations to make it just right for your family. A custom home is designed and built to your exact specifications, but will take much longer than choosing an existing home.

Custom built home on lakefront property facing Lake Keowee

Waterfront or water view

Is it your desire for buying lakefront property to be right on the water? The wide variety of lake property for sale in SC gives you options. If you want lake access from your own property, choose a lot that is on the water and meets the requirements for a dock. If you just want a view of the lake, perhaps from higher up, a lake view property may suit you. There may even be lots or existing homes that are not in view of the water but are just a short walk or drive away from a lake view and access point.

Cost of lakefront property

If budget is a factor for you, the type of property you choose can make a big difference in the overall cost of your home. When buying lakefront property, keep in mind that waterfront sites are usually the highest in price, with water view being a bit less, and a lot that is not in view of the water would be even less. The size and style of the home make a difference in the cost as well, whether your buying a lake home or have a custom home built.

Lake Information

Do your research about the lake itself before buying a lake home. What are the rules? What types of activities does the lake allow? How big is the lake? How deep? Is fishing allowed? What are the future plans for the lake and the property surrounding it? Consider all of these questions that may affect your recreational activities before deciding on the right location for your lake home.

buying a lake home

Find gorgeous lakefront property for sale in SC with Total Quality Home Builders & Waterfront Properties

If buying lakefront property and living on the sparkling waters of Lake Keowee is your dream, Total Quality Home Builders can help. Lakefront and lake view lots are available now for custom home building, as well as existing homes for sale. Don’t miss your chance to secure a lot on the beautiful shores of Lake Keowee or the surrounding area. Call today (864) 868-5253.

Now that you’ve made the decision to build your dream home, it’s time to decide what features are important to you and your family. What special details would you include in your design? Your vision is unique, and it’s something you probably won’t find listed on the market. To truly see your dream home become a reality, nothing compares to building a custom home.

We’ve put together some ideas that you may want to consider when you start the design phase of your new home. By taking advantage of our design-build process, our design experts will help guide you, ensuring that your vision for your new home comes to life.

Windows with a view of the lake

Living lakeside, large windows are a must for taking advantage of those stunning lake views. One of the benefits of buying a waterfront property is the gorgeous year-round views that you’ll be able to enjoy. An open concept layout with walls of windows means the interior gets treated to lake views and ample light from every corner. However, without enough windows or if they’re too small, you won’t be able to enjoy the view. When you build your dream home, consider lining the side of your home facing the water with large windows so you can truly take advantage of your scenic view.

Windows with a view of the lake

 

 

A lakeside deck in your backyard

There’s nothing quite like sitting outside with a cup of coffee or a glass of wine, enjoying the rising or setting sun, especially if it’s over a lake. A well-planned waterfront backyard might have a paver pathway leading to a boat dock and a serene seating area with charming Adirondack chairs. Consider a stone fire pit placed lakeside with a flagstone patio as an extension of the deck. You may even want an outdoor covered dining area, complete with LED “candle” lanterns perfect for summer evening entertainment.

A private dock

One of the reasons for buying waterfront property is having boat access to the water whenever you want. You’ll want to build the appropriate dock to accommodate your boat right outside your home, having convenient access all summer long. Another benefit of having a private dock right outside your home is you’ll be able to relax on the pier and even fish provided it’s built out far enough. Depending on your land and community, you can install a small dock for a small boat or a larger dock that will fit a bigger boat plus other water equipment like life vests and fishing poles.

A private dock when you build your dream home

Hanging beds

If you enjoy hammocking, you’ll absolutely love lounging in a comfortable hanging bed. A hanging bed is a great accessory to any lake house’s screened-in porch and will provide you with a comfortable spot to relax, nap, read, or simply enjoy the view. When you build your dream home, think about all the ways the design will benefit you and your family, including those times when you just want to be lazy on a warm summer afternoon.

A screened-in porch overlooking the lake

Picture a big wrap-around porch to make it easy to live outdoors with the comfort of plush wicker sofas and armchairs surrounded by expansive lake views. Adding a screened-in element to your porch will help keep the mosquitoes away during the day and light-loving bugs away during the evening hours.

A mudroom is a must on the lake

Mudrooms continue to be a popular feature in homes, especially in lake homes and should be a definite consideration when you build your dream home. This secondary entrance is perfect to drop dirty shoes and clothing before entering the home after a day out on the lake. You can design a mudroom that’s adjacent to your private lake entrance that’s both a functional and stylish addition to your home. Learn more in our article Mudrooms: What to Consider for Your Custom-Built House.

A convenient outdoor shower

One of the benefits of living on Lake Keowee is that you can go swimming anytime you want. Many waterfront property homeowners take full advantage of the nearby water to go swimming every morning or take the family out for some lake fun on the weekend. If this is something that you envision doing after you build your dream home, you may want to add an outdoor shower that can be used to rinse off after you get out of the lake. This ensures that you enter your home without tracking in lake water, mud, or other undesirable items. Conveniently placed just outside of your mudroom, you’ll be sure to keep unwanted messes at bay.

Outdoor lighting

If sitting on your deck or on your pier to enjoy the water at night is something you envision when you build your dream home, consider installing outdoor lighting. Installing LED lights can be used to highlight some of your favorite features such as the exterior of your home, on your deck, and along the pier. You can even place lights near the foot of your favorite trees to create a relaxing ambiance for nighttime enjoyment.

build your dream home

Home automation

Most new luxury homes are designed with home automation and there’s no reason not to integrate it into your waterfront property, too. The levels of automation available can range in cost, time to install, and ease of use. That’s why, if you’re interested in home automation, you’ll want to start thinking about your plans in the design phase. Home automation allows ease of control of your home’s systems, including lights, your HVAC system, door locks, and even your entertainment systems from a single remote source, such as your smartphone. We’ve got a whole article dedicated to this subject: 9 of Today’s Coolest Home Automation Products.

safety on lake keowee

As summer winds down, many families will enjoy the last of the season celebrating Labor Day at their favorite swimming hole or hopping in the boat for one last fishing trip. Lake Keowee, one of the more popular lakes in South Carolina, has about 18,500 acres of surface water. Its average depth is 53 feet, and it reaches nearly 300 feet at its deepest point, according to the S.C. Department of Natural Resources.

Want to swim in Lake Keowee? The depth, size, presence of boats, and other factors make swimming in a lake different from swimming in a pool, and for those who are not strong swimmers, we have some advice to help keep you and your family safe this Labor Day.

First and foremost, if your swimming ability is limited or non-existent and you are planning family time on the lake, always wear a flotation device.

Here are our top 7 tips to ensure your family’s safety on Lake Keowee this Labor Day weekend.

safety on lake keowee

Wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket

Putting on a life jacket while boating, canoeing, kayaking, paddleboarding, or swimming can mean the difference between life and death. Furthermore, life jackets must be worn by children under the age of 12 in South Carolina. This means putting the jacket on before the vessel is underway – moving or drifting.

Life jackets are available at Duke Energy access areas and are essential for water safety, especially for children and inexperienced swimmers. Whether swimming or boating, wearing a properly fitting life jacket is essential and can save a life. Life jackets in a variety of sizes are available for temporary use at many recreation access areas. Visitors may check out a life jacket at no charge and then return it to the kiosk when done. Life jacket loaner boards are run on an honor system, and the availability of life jackets will vary.

To ensure your safety on Lake Keowee, there are several Duke Energy Life Jacket locations in the area:

  • Lake Keowee: South Cove Access Area, High Falls Access Area, Mile Creek Park Access Area
  • Lake Jocassee: Devil’s Fork State Park

Swim with a buddy

Swim in designated areas only and always with a buddy. Rocks and other underwater hazards can be tricky when you swim outside of a marked swimming area. Always swim with a friend and let others know your location and your expected return time. You and your buddy should take turns being a spotter. Plan for someone to stay on the boat, shore, or dock to watch for any problems that may arise. A throw cushion is mandatory equipment for boats and may be used for swimmers in trouble, so always be aware of its location and keep it in an easily accessible place.

safety on lake keowee

Swim sober

Pay attention to fatigue, health conditions, and alcohol use in members of your group. Exhaustion, impaired skills, and illness can affect your ability to swim safely. Sun, weather, and motion can elevate intoxication and make swimming dangerous, especially in deeper waters.

Drink water to stay hydrated as the sun can reduce your energy and cause cramping, affecting your fun and, more importantly, your safety on Lake Keowee.

Always enter unknown or shallow water feet-first

In general, you should always enter shallow or unknown waters feet first. Unknown waters are when you are unsure of the water depth or if you can’t see what lays beneath the surface. When possible, the wade entry is the best way to enter unknown waters. Wade entry is entering the water at a slow walk. Feel your way forward with your feet until the water is chest deep, then start to swim.

safety on lake keowee

Be aware of currents, waves, and underwater obstructions

Being water competent in natural water requires additional knowledge and skill than swimming in a pool. Whenever you are near a lake, river, stream, or other natural water environments, watch and prepare for:

  • Fast-moving currents, waves, and rapids, even in shallow water
  • Hazards, such as dams, underwater obstacles, or rocks and debris
  • Vegetation, animals, and fish
  • Drop-offs that can unexpectedly change water depth
  • Other people’s activities in the same waters, such as boaters and skiers

Watch the weather – be aware of sudden changes in air or water temperature

Watch for changes in the weather, especially in the afternoon. Although you may have checked the weather before your outing, summer storms can pop up suddenly and without warning. Also be aware of lake water levels, temperature, and currents. These can change quickly, making swimming more difficult and unsafe.

Watch for boaters

Be aware of boats and other motorized water vessels during dusk and nighttime hours. Pay particular attention to boats with no lights on, boats pulling skiers and tubes past the legal time in which they are allowed to do so, as well as kayakers who may be barely visible to others.

Follow these tips and be assured of you and your family’s safety on Lake Keowee this Labor Day.

walls front of house

Now that you’ve made the decision to build your dream home, it’s time to evaluate what you want in a custom home floor plan. Working with experts can significantly reduce the effort needed to understand all the details that go into the plan. Picturing your new home from a set of line drawings is difficult for most which is why having an experienced team like Total Quality Home Builders is a must. There are many steps to evaluating and customizing a home floor plan, so we’ve defined six important steps to help you envision your new home.

Focus on the Basics

As you start the process of developing your custom home floor plan, think about the features of a new home that are important to you, your family, and your lifestyle. A good floor plan will not only enhance your quality of life but will also lengthen the life of your house. By creating a list of features that are important to you and your family, you can prioritize the features that you want in your new home.

walls custom kitchen

Zero in on the Flow

Custom home floor plans that have a poor flow will affect your long-term comfort and use of the house.  Ensure that frequently used rooms are grouped in proximity for ideal functionality. Pay attention to whether it’s easy to move from one part of your home to another and look for barriers that may prevent easy access to different parts of the home. Is the layout confusing or odd? Does the traffic pattern make sense? For example, placing the dining room on the other side of the living room isn’t very functional. The same is true about the proximity of bathrooms to bedrooms. It’s important to compare where you currently live to your new custom home floor plan and think about your likes and dislikes.

Get Creative & Show off Your Style

Have you always wanted a spiral staircase? A decked-out gourmet kitchen? Or how about an above-garage apartment for visiting relatives? Most people who decide to build a custom home have ideas about what their dream home would include. Now is the time to put your imagination to work. Turn your daydreams into a list of features that you want to incorporate into your custom home floor plan. When building a new home, you have the flexibility to peruse styles that are of interest to you but keep in mind that your style choices will also have an impact on the house plan. You want to be prepared for any freedoms or limitations that may come with the style you choose.

walls outside entry ceiling

Measurements Matter

Square footage may not be the most captivating aspect of developing a custom home floor plan, but it’s certainly one of the most important. Think about the rooms you need – and want – to consider your ideal layout, to get a sense of how much space you need, and where you need it most. You may want an open floor plan, with your kitchen open to the living area. Do you want a large walk-in pantry or an island with seating in the kitchen? When considering the master bedroom’s attached bath, you may want a double vanity, or a separate shower and tub. Speaking of bedrooms, how many is ideal for your family? Creating the right floor plan is essential to enjoying your new home, so it’s best to make sure you have a clear vision of what you want prior to finalizing your plans.

Factoring in Future Needs

Aging in place is a decision many people make, but even if you’re not planning to stay in your new home forever, it might make your house easier to sell if you add aspects of universal design, meaning that it meets the needs of virtually anyone, and it creates flexibility, even as needs and abilities change. Those features may include extra lighting, lever-style door handles, single-handle faucets, no-threshold showers with seating inside, wider doorways and halls, and many more options that can be incorporated in a custom home floor plan.

The best floor plans fit present and future needs. When you’re planning to age-in-place in your home, having the option of adding a master bedroom suite on the first floor of your home makes sense. You may not need that extra space for several years but having that option will be very convenient when the time comes.

walls bedroom

Choosing an Experienced Builder

Developing the best floor plan can be a big challenge when building your first custom home. And since your home represents one of the largest investments you will ever make, the selection of a builder is extremely important. Choose the right builder who’s experienced in designing custom homes; they’ll be able to answer your questions and provide you with the expert advice you need to design the home of your dreams.

Are you ready to build your dream home? Contact us today and let’s get started.