5 Tips for Buying A Luxury Mountain Home

September 24, 2019 by Admin

Sierra Sotheby's International Real Estate has represented the sale of the most exclusive and luxurious properties at Lake Tahoe. Luxury buyers will often have questions about buying a luxury mountain or lake front property. As a seasoned luxury realtor, serving the North Lake Tahoe and Truckee markets, I can help guide you in your sale or purchase.

Below are 5 important questions to consider when buying your luxury mountain home at Lake Tahoe:

The Type of Community

Lake Tahoe offers a diversity of ski in ski out properties and exquisite lakefront homes. Many entry level luxury homes back to National Forest or are located next to Conservancy land. These type of homes often come with HOA access to pier and buoys and it is important to work with a realtor who is knowledgeable about HOA access.

Each community offers something unique. The Sunnyside area of lakefront properties offer more privacy and many of the homes are iconic because of their rich heritage. Owning a home in Brockway Hot Springs offers a gated community and was home to Lake Tahoe’s first resort area because of its natural springs. The lakefront properties along the North Shore are priced lower because they are near to the highway, while they were built to enjoy breathtaking views of the lake. As you travel South on Hwy 89 you will find several neighborhoods with charming lakefront properties.

Homes in Northstar California can offer ski in and ski out access. Their close proximity to the Ritz Carlton and Village of Northstar allow homeowners easy access to 5 star restaurants and shops. Lahontan is a gated golf community with fabulous amenities and beautiful architectural designs.

Choosing the perfect community and type of amenities you desire, is the first step in buying your dream home.

The Builder and/or Architect

Many of the luxury homes at Lake Tahoe hold special value because of the reputation of the builder or architect. For example, buyers of Bruce Olsen homes will enjoy how he retains the Old Tahoe feel of a property when upgrading it with modern amenities. I have represented many builders on the launch of their Lake Tahoe properties and can educate you on what to look for in architectural styles and snow impact designs.

Area Service Providers

While most of Lake Tahoe enjoys cable, internet and good cell service, some areas like Twin Peaks Estates may require satellite or cellular based internet. The cell signals of AT&T or Verizon change as you travel around the lake. I can help you navigate some of the questions you may have about service providers so that you can enjoy streaming or cable services.

The different areas of Lake Tahoe and Truckee have their own utility districts and water quality. Almost all homes have bear proof garbage containers that ensure we live peacefully with the surrounding wildlife. Snow removal contracts are an important part of enjoying Lake Tahoe winters. Depending on the neighborhood you choose, you will have different service providers and snow impacts.

Local Ordinances

Getting permission to upgrade or build piers or install buoys comes with certain restrictions. It is important to work with a realtor who can guide you in the permit process. All homes will need a sewer clearance prior to sale. The area also has ordinances that are specific to maintaining good air quality. To “Keep Tahoe Blue” we have required runoff measures that will need to be implemented prior to sale.

During the purchase or sale of your home at Lake Tahoe, I can guide you every step of the way. Working with an experienced agent will ensure that there are no surprises.

Costs for Home Care

In addition to a snow plow contract, homeowners will need to keep thermostats set to ensure water pipes do not freeze. This means that in the winter, and even if you are not enjoying the property, you will have utility bills.

Additionally, you may want to rent your property as a vacation rental. Having the home shoveled and clean for new tenants becomes a normal cost of home care. Property managers charge a fee to ensure that your home is cared for and to reduce wear and tear. Even if you decide to rent your property through VRBO or AirB&B, you will need someone local caring for the property.

Deciding to purchase a luxury home at Lake Tahoe is a wise choice because this area has enjoyed a steady rise in equities. Some areas will have a better return on investment over other neighborhoods. Because I understand the nuances that come with buying or selling a home at Lake Tahoe, you can have confidence in knowing you are working with a premier luxury realtor.

Whether you are thinking of buying or selling your home at Lake Tahoe, I would love to help you.