The Ultimate Cottage Checklist
So you’ve decided to start looking for a cottage property. Where does one begin? Whether you grew up cottaging or don’t know the first thing about the cottage lifestyle, here are a few things you should consider:
1. Access
Do you plan on using the property in the winter? If so, is the road-maintained year round? Will you need to invest in an ATV/4 wheeler to access the property? If you think you would like to use the property during the cooler months then your best bet is to narrow your search to cottages with road access. Island properties can be more affordable, but you should always consider year-round use and the cost of a boat (repairs, maintenance, gas, marina fees) as well as the travel time to access your cottage oasis.
2. Privacy
This is a big must have for me. Do you want Tom from next door seeing you in your robe every morning? Its important to think about how close you want your neighbours to be and whether you want to be on a busy lake or prefer a quieter atmosphere? Some of the bigger lakes have sections that are more crowded than others. In regards to the Big 3 lakes, if you purchase a cottage on North Lake Rosseau, your neighbours are likely to be further away as most lots have 200ft plus of water frontage. Closer to Gravenhurst on Lake Muskoka, cottages are closer together and many properties have less than 100 ft of frontage.
3. Exposure
When viewing cottage properties, a lot of clients don’t think about where the sun will be throughout the day which could greatly affect your use of the property. Whats the point in having a beautiful dock to sit out on if it’s covered in shade by 1pm? Or if you’re not a sun worshipper like myself, consider if there will be enough shade on the property for you to sit out and enjoy the day sweat free.
It helps to view your potential cottage property at a few different times during a day so you can get a better feel for it. Or chat with your rockstar realtor about various exposure options so you will have plenty of drool worthy dock sunset pictures to post on your Instagram account.
4. Proximity to Town
Of course, you want to be surrounded by nature at the cottage and forget all about the chaos of city life. However, if you have to drive 40 mins to the nearest store to grab a bag of ice, you may regret your cottage purchase. Think about your current lifestyle and what conveniences you need on a regular basis. How far are you willing to travel for them?
AND Last but not least…
5. VIBE!
How does the cottage make you feel? Could you see yourself and your family enjoying it for years to come? You should invest in a property that you’re excited about and can’t wait to visit again. If the property doesn’t light you up, then she’s not the one.
Want to hear more about what else you need to consider when buying a cottage, let’s chat today!