Once known simply as Spirit Lake, the Iowa Great Lakes area has been attracting people to its pristine environment since 1857 although taming this pristine wilderness came at a high cost to its first inhabitants.
Today, no trace of these early struggles remains, apart from what is recorded in the history books. Instead, visitors and residents of modern-day Okoboji enjoy a serene and scenic lakeside playground offering year-round amusements for all.
If you’re looking for an escape route from your fast-paced life, a lakeside house in this lovely part of the world is just what you need. Okoboji has a fantastic selection of residential and vacation homes up for grabs.
Are you ready to commit to a lifetime of tranquility? Read on to learn what you need to know before you start searching for a property in this sought-after destination.
The Iowa Great Lakes Region
The Iowa Great Lakes are a group of seven lakes located in northwestern Iowa. The lakes total an area of 12,687 acres and offer a multitude of watersports and other outdoor activities.
The main lakes in this area are:
- Big Spirit Lake
- East Okoboji Lake
- West Okoboji Lake
- Upper Gar
- Lower Gar
- Minnewashta
Except for Spirit Lake, boats can move freely between these watercourses.
The lakes nourish a thriving community filled with a bustling arts and cultural scene, lodgings, shops, and restaurants. Other attractions include Marble and Mini-Wakan Beach and several state parks.
Reasons for Buying a Lakeside House
Before investing in lakeside real estate, you must be clear on your reasons for purchasing a property in Iowa Great Lakes. Are you looking for a permanent home, a vacation home, or an investment property?
If you want to live in Okoboji full-time, you might place a higher priority on what’s practical for your family than if you’re buying a property for vacation rentals.
Perhaps your most important criterion when buying a lake house is your budget. Property prices vary widely depending on their location relative to the lake, erf size, and amenities.
You could pay as much as $4,500,000 for a large lakeside home or as little as $200,000 for a small cottage in town. Apartments and condo prices are in the region of $600,000.
Key Features of Lakefront Homes for Sale
The next step is creating a wish list of must-have features and desirable extras. A large waterfront property might include a dock for your boat, beautiful gardens, and an outside entertainment area.
Waterfront access is the first prize for those wanting to maximize waterfront living benefits, but it’s only one of the desirable features of lakeside properties in the Iowa Lakes area.
Smaller homes without lakeside access can still feature desirable features like scenic views and close access to the area’s attractions. Each home is unique, and you might need to compromise if you can’t find a property within your price range that has all your desired amenities.
Location
Spring-fed West Lake Okoboji is at the heart of tourist activities in the Lakes Corridor and is a year-round playground for outdoor enthusiasts. This makes it the most desirable location for owning a home in Okoboji.
The closer your new home is to the lake, the more you’ll enjoy waterfront living benefits like immediate access to the water for fishing, swimming, and boating. One of the disadvantages of these popular homes can be the noise created by other fun seekers.
If you’re looking for solitude and freedom from the busiest boat traffic, it’s best to look for a home a little off the beaten tourist track.
Water access aside, you should also consider how well-located the home is to other recreational facilities, grocery stores, and restaurants.
Finding the Best Lakeside House
Research local real estate market trends. Price surges could indicate up-and-coming areas where you could enjoy high property appreciation.
Real estate prices in Okojobi have slowed a little in recent times but West Okojobi home prices continue to soar as more people discover the joys of owning a home in this vacation hotspot.
If you have plans to rent your home to vacationers or make significant improvements, you must check that your plans are in line with local regulations and restrictions.
Think Ahead
The future plans for the Great Lakes area could have a significant impact on your lake house investment. Research future developments that might affect your property’s value, accessibility, and desirability.
You must also consider the ongoing costs of owning a lakeside home. Waterfront houses can require a little extra TLC when it comes to preventive maintenance.
High humidity levels near water sources can lead to mold and algae growth, so you’ll need to keep your home as clean and dry as possible to avoid this. A boat dock also required ongoing care to protect it from the ravages of being immersed in water.
If you aren’t going to live in the home full time, you’ll need to switch off the gas, water, and electricity while you’re away and hire a property manager to check in on the home and take care of routine maintenance tasks, like lawn care.
Local Real Estate Agents Offer Tailored Services
Hiring a real estate agent is the best way to make good choices when buying property. Local realtors know all the secrets to choosing an ideal home in the Iowa Great Lakes Area.
A licensed and experienced team will listen to your needs and find you a property that’s within your budget and ticks all your boxes.
Find Your Perfect Lakeside Getaway
By keeping the above guidelines in mind, you’ll find your perfect property in Iowa’s Great Lakes in no time at all, especially if you collaborate with an expert realtor.
Jensen Real Estate is an experienced team of realtors based in the Okoboji area. We offer an exceptional range of lakeshore properties, classic cottages, townhouses, and condos for sale in the Iowa Great Lakes area.
Whether you’re looking to make a permanent move to the area or want to invest in a vacation property, we can help you find the lakeside house of your dreams.
Find the perfect place to soothe your soul by reaching out to one of our helpful, informed, and experienced agents today.