If you’re anything like us, dreaming of lakefront living could practically be a full-time job. Maybe you’ve been wishing for a great summer getaway for your family. Or you’ve always wanted a home right on the water—all year long. What happens when you’ve finally given in to those dreams and you’re ready to get your taste of the lake life? The next step is simple: start hunting for houses for sale on Lake Keowee.
However, we suggest you fully understand when it’s the right time to start looking, too. We have the insider’s knowledge that will help you determine the best time to house hunt as you give in to your dream of purchasing waterfront property.
Change your perception of spring
Real estate experts all agree that spring is the ideal time to start looking for a residential home, but is that the case with lakefront living, too? Spring is usually recommended by Realtors as the time to put homes on the market, which is when you’ll see the highest number of newly listed homes. And that typically means it’s the ideal time of year to start house hunting.
However, that same logic may not be true for the waterfront property market. In fact, buying a lake home is very different compared to a more traditional purchase, and that’s absolutely the case when looking for houses for sale on Lake Keowee.
Research shows that nearly 40% of sales happen after the peak summer season is over, making the most optimal time to buy lakefront property between October and the end of December. Why? Usually, homeowners try to get the most out of one last summer, waiting until after Labor Day to put it on the market.
Plus, you’ll want to know what the property looks like during the non-peak months to get an accurate picture. If you are happy with it in the winter, you’re pretty much guaranteed to love it all year long—especially during the summer months. When the lake shimmers into your kitchen window on a hot summer day, you’ll know you made the right choice.
Also, if there seem to be several waterfront properties on the market at prices that seem too good to be true, that may be a sign of a weak market. Make sure you’re getting your money’s worth out of your purchase!
Get a great deal on a lake house
We suggest following these four steps to get your optimal lakefront home.
1: Find a real estate agent with waterfront property experience
If you have a Realtor that knows the market, you’re already on the right path. Partnering with a trusted buyer’s agent who knows the area and the ins and outs of a lake house will provide you with unparalleled value for finding the perfect home. They fully understand waterfront properties and can negotiate a great deal on your desired home. Don’t tackle it on your own, either. A buyer’s agent has the expertise you can rely on.
2: Assess your wants and desires
Start with a well thought-through wish list. Make sure it’s in-hand when you sit down with your agent to determine what you want and need in a property. Don’t forget to consider your budget, too. Be as transparent as possible with your agent and make sure you know what you’re willing to give up in order to find the right home—if that’s necessary—so you don’t get frustrated in the process. From there, you can begin the search for the perfect home.
3. Find a lender
Your agent can help you evaluate and determine the right financing option for your situation. You will likely have specific goals and a distinct financial situation to discuss. The right lender will help you feel confident with your final decision. Keep in mind that it can take around 30 days to close, so don’t forget to take that into consideration if you’re locked into a specific timeline in which you’d like to move.
4. Negotiate
Have you chosen your dream waterfront property? Then it’s time to make an offer! Your agent will do the heavy lifting there, and once the home inspection is done, he or she will pull out those negotiating skills to ensure you’re getting the best deal possible.
Are you ready to buy your dream lake home?
We can help you get started. Begin by browsing available homes.
When you find what you’re looking for, call us (864) 868-5253 or fill out our contact form.
We’ll be in touch shortly to answer any questions you may have and to schedule a no-obligation consultation.
And most importantly, we wish you good luck with your search. We promise you’ll love it here.
Houses for Sale on Lake Keowee
