Last blog (check it out if you haven’t read it yet), I suggested some things to consider when purchasing a cottage property. All very valid points. Picking the right lake for you and your family is SO important that it deserves its own blog post!

Most people are familiar with the Big 3 Lakes in Muskoka, but the area is home to over 1600 other lakes! There are many factors to consider when deciding which one is best for you and your family:

FRONTAGE

How many feet of waterfront would you like? Does it give you the view you desire? Is the path to the lake level or steep? Are there a lot of steps down to the lake? Consider your family and future guest’s needs and whether or not they will be able to access the water. Are you prepared to walk up 40 steps on a blazing hot day to top up your drink?

USAGE

Think about the hobbies you and your family enjoy. Are you looking to waterski and tube? Consider any motor restrictions on the lake that may limit what you can do on water. Is fishing important to you? Are you looking for a quiet lake with the odd canoe paddling by during an afternoon?  Maybe Lake Henshaw in Port Carling or Ada Lake in Bala are right for you. If you’re on a big and busy lake, neighbours can be out waterskiing as early as 7am so keep that in mind when thinking about lake usage. A good compromise is choosing a quiet bay on a large lake - such as Luna Bay or Shanty Bay on Lake Muskoka. You get the best of both worlds - calm water for paddling with big water access just a short boat drive away!

SHORELINE

Is the shoreline rocky or sandy? Is a sand beach important to you? Think about your needs now and in the future. Will kids or grandparents be accessing the water?

If so, you may want to consider a sandy shoreline or if you will be able to modify the shoreline to suit your family’s changing needs.

DEPTH OFF SHORE

Your real estate salesperson should be able to tell you how deep the water is off shore. How does that depth impact your boat or water toys? Access to water? Do you want shallow water for wading? Are there rocks off shore? How does this impact diving off the dock? Is the water weedy? What’s involved in maintaining your shoreline so its safe and accessible?

In other words, who will be raking ALL those wicked weeds every spring??

RENTERS OR OWNERS?

Something a lot of clients don’t consider is who else is on the lake. A lake with many rental units or a resort isn’t necessarily a bad thing but it is something to know and consider in your search. It’s important to think about who you are sharing that water with especially if you’re planning on getting a lot of use out of your dock and water access.

SIZE

How big is the lake? How deep is it? Width? Can it accommodate your hobbies? Would you like to be on a chain of lakes or have access to a restaurant or store by boat?

The questions are endless but that’s what I am here to help you with. Let’s chat today about what lake is best for you!