When you choose a summer home, you want it to be for life. Making the right choice is not easy, but it is imperative. It can help to compose a list of the things you really want, and then stick with it when you begin the hunt. Here are some ideas to include in that list.
A Spacious Interior
While it is natural to want to find the best deal possible on your summer home, you shouldn’t sell yourself short on space. You will be spending a significant amount of time there, and you want to be comfortable. Try to plan for the likely maximum number of visitors and select something that can comfortably fit that amount. Think about how much room you will need to seat everyone in the living room, to fit everyone at the table, and to provide enough beds. This is your vacation spot, and it is never fun to be stepping on toes or bumping elbows with people everywhere you turn!
Great Views
When you are getting away from the stressors of life, you want a place where you can turn everything off and forget it all. A picturesque view is a constant reminder that you are on vacation! You don’t want your summer home to look and feel just like your regular home. Find a home that feeds your soul just by sitting on the porch or looking out the window. You might prefer a view of the mountains. Maybe you love watching the ocean waves crash up onto the beach. You could choose a pristine river, or a sparkling lake. Maybe a dazzling cityscape is your preference. Whatever it is that you love, find a home with a really great view of it!
A Patio for Relaxing
Nothing says relaxation like rocking on the patio, gazing at your amazing view! As important as the house is, don’t forget that porch time is a must on summer vacation. Find a house with a patio that can fit more than just a couple of people, so that it can be a gathering place for gentle conversation and friendly laughter. Make sure to load it up with comfortable rocking chairs, chair swings, and whatever else speaks summer to you.
A Pool
No matter how many fun things surround you, everyone loves ending the day with a jump in the pool. It is the perfect way to unwind, wash off, and prepare for bed. If your summer home doesn’t already have a pool, consider installing one. If you choose to rent your summer home to vacationers when you aren’t there, having a pool onsite is a big draw. When you build a custom pool, you can create the backyard haven of your dreams. There are a variety of materials to choose from, such as plaster, concrete, tile, and stone. You can also play with the shape of your pool. Don’t feel boxed in by a standard rectangular pool. Create a kidney shaped pool, an oval, an L, and even an irregular pattern. Building an in-ground pool doesn’t have to be overly intrusive. Concrete pump trucks can reach over obstacles on your property to pour material.
A Convenient Location
Even though vacation is all about getting away from the hustle and bustle of regular life, you will still want some basic accommodations. Try not to get too far from civilization! There should be a reasonably close grocery store, gas station, and emergency room. If you don’t want to spend every evening cooking, you might also want some restaurants nearby. Additionally, think about the things that you like to do on vacation. If you love the beach, choose a home within walking distance so you don’t have to worry about traffic and parking. If you are a passionate hiker, choose a home with nearby trails. If your dream is to fish all day, look for lakefront property. If you prefer city life, find something within an easy distance of the city. Remember, location is everything!
Updated Features
A summer home is a major investment, and you want it to last. When you can’t be nearby for most of the year, you don’t want to have to worry about things breaking down, leaking, or wearing out. This is especially true if you will be renting your home to vacationers. Make sure that the appliances, the pool, the plumbing, the electrical system, and the windows are in good working order. If any of these things are dated, consider updating them.
Storage and Parking
Your summer home should be a fully functional living space. This means that you will need to furnish and supply your summer home just as you would your regular home. Find something with the space to store everything you will need to live comfortably, from towels and blankets to paper goods, tools, and a fully supplied kitchen. Furthermore, you need someplace to store all your vacation gear, including boats, bikes, life jackets, pool toys, beach toys, and any other vacation needs. If you plan on taking in renters, it is best if you can lock these things up in a shed or storage closet. Additionally, it is common for summer homes to lack sufficient parking. Make sure you have enough space to accommodate your own vehicles, as well as those of any guests that might be invited.
A Home Security System
Because you will be gone from the property for much of the year, it is a good idea to have a state-of-the-art home security system. Thieves target empty houses, so make sure that your security system is fully functional, monitored, and that it provides a sufficient deterrent to would-be burglars. If the home is not already equipped with a security system, have one installed.
Choosing a summer home is exciting but can also feel a bit overwhelming. It is easy to be distracted by less important features and forget about the ones that really matter. Following this guide should help you make a wise investment that will bless your life and the lives of your loved ones for years to come.
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