Pros and Cons of Living in Front of a Lake

Views

Water views can be spectacular in any type of weather and at any time of day, and that is a primary reason why waterfront homes sell for top dollar. However, all that water and the lack of trees means that there are no natural windbreakers on one side of the house, and a lakefront home might suffer significant wind and water damage in a storm. In addition, living on water can incur a higher risk of flooding.

Water Sports

The lake can be a great place for family fun; swimming and fishing are usually both possible. If the lake is large enough and there are no restrictions against it, water skiing can also be enjoyed. Unfortunately, the engines can be very loud and the boats may come close to the shore, which can be annoying when the noise continues for an extended period of time.

Privacy

If you live on a lake, you may spend long hours looking at the water without seeing anyone. No cars will be driving by to obscure your view, and you have fewer neighbors able to watch what you do, so you can enjoy your cookouts in peace. However, since they can't watch you, they also can't watch your house, and those doors and windows facing the lake are prime targets for thieves.

Wildlife

Feeding the birds and ducks can be fun, but depending on the geographical location of the property, there can be many hidden dangers in and around the lake. Water moccasins are one type of poisonous snake that thrive in southern lakes, and it is not uncommon to find alligators in the lakes of southern states. The water will attract mammals to the area, and some may aggressively defend their territory against human interlopers.