Serene views, access to water— it’s a dream come true to live in a lakefront property. If your home has more than enough outdoor space for landscaping, the following tips will maximize its potential and perhaps even boost its value.
- Check Zoning Laws
Landscaping projects can result in a hefty sum. You wouldn’t want to waste money and resources! So before you do anything to your lakefront home, it’s important to check the local and state-wide zoning laws. Some of these are intended to protect the natural shoreline and habitats, while others help keep the integrity of the land.
If you break any of these laws, you might have to re-do the landscaping and pay fines.
- Create Specified Walkway
It’s lovely to walk up to the water’s edge once in a while. Draw up a plan where walkways are specified so the land and the shoreline won’t be disturbed. You can use a variety of materials depending on the kind of look you’re after.
For instance, natural stone fits well with the natural landscape, while loose fitting rocks can help you achieve a uniform look without it being too fussy or costing too much. You can also choose to have these walkways elevated for better views.
- Don’t Forget the Views
It would be a waste to cover up views with structures and what not. As you plan the landscaping, identify spots in the backyard with the best views of the lake. From there, determine the things you can do that take full advantage of these vistas.
It could be a romantic outside seating area for two with a bonfire in the middle, a raised deck that allows you to view the sloping landscape of your property, a gazebo where you can spend afternoons reading by the lake, or a swing set for children.
- Consider Adding Transition Plants
To blur the lines between land and water, consider planting transition plants close to the shoreline. Once fully grown, they’ll make the area look more natural and lusher.
Not all plants can be transition plants, however. Choose the ones with roots that do well in moist to wet soil. Some of these plants include snapdragons, grass lilies, and variegated sweet flags. And as much as possible, plant local flora and stay away from what could be invasive plants.
- Add Retaining Walls
If your lakefront property is gradually sloping or you have flower and plant beds and want to keep the soil in, add retaining walls. They will help prevent the soil from eroding all while keeping the look of the landscape neat and rustic.
Like specified walkways, you can choose from a number of materials for your retaining walls. Some of the most popular include dry laid stone, decorative concrete block, and brick. Choose the one that fits the overall aesthetic of your lakefront home.
- Choose Products Carefully
As the owner of a lakefront home, you have the responsibility of making sure you help preserve the local wildlife and environment. As such, be wary of the products you use in landscaping. Double-check the ingredients of fertilizers and chemicals— some of them might do more harm than good.
With environment-friendly products, you’re not only helping preserve the lake. You’re also helping your lakefront property preserve its inherent beauty and value.
Are you looking for more tips on what you can do with your Lake Conroe waterfront property? Browse our blog! And as always, you are welcome to get in touch with our team at katherine(at)lakeconroe(dotted)com or 936.525.0095 for matters on Lake Conroe real estate and homes for sale.
