Buying a Cottage? Here Are 6 More Things to Know

04.13.21 | Buying

Buying a Cottage? Here Are 6 More Things to Know

A cottage is a place where families gather and lifelong memories are made. It can provide decades of enjoyment—and be an incredible gift for the next generation. Of course, it’s also a big commitment, which is why it’s so important to make sure that buying a cottage is the right decision for you. The first step is knowing the basics. While we’ve covered a few of them before, there’s more to know if you’re dreaming of life at the lake.

If you’re thinking of buying your first cottage, here are six things you should know…

What’s the Wi-Fi situation?

For most of us, wireless internet access isn’t just a nice-to-have. It’s an absolute necessity. Of course, for some cottagers, owning a little piece of paradise is all about unplugging. But for others, work inevitably bleeds into vacation time. If you fall into this camp—or you’re the type who needs to be connected no matter where you are—ask specific questions about the Wi-Fi in any place you’re considering. What’s the signal strength like? What about the speed? Are there rooms where it’s difficult to stay connected?

Does it have a well or septic?

Your cottage will differ from your city home in many ways. One of the biggest may have to do with where your water comes from—and what happens when you shower or flush. While it’s certainly not the case for every property in the Kawartha Region, many aren’t connected to centralized sewer and water. Instead, they rely on an onsite well and septic. While these systems aren’t the hassle many people think they are (far from it), they do require a bit of maintenance—so make sure you know what that entails.

Is it winter ready?

Before you take the plunge and buy a particular cottage, make sure you know if it’s winterized. What that process includes will depend on whether you plan on using it year-round or just during the warmer months. Even if you’ll only be there in the summer, ensuring that the place is properly insulated (including the pipes) is a must for preventing cold-weather damage. If you’ll be using your cottage in all seasons, the plumbing should be equipped to handle winter use, and the windows and doors should be able to withstand drafts.

What’s the water like?

If you’re planning to buy a place directly on the lake, make sure you know all about the waterfront. Is it sandy and shallow? Does it drop off steeply, allowing for deep dives? Consider safety issues if you have little ones, as well as the activities you plan to do. Boating will be easier in some areas than others. Lastly, look into shore road allowances. Does the current owner lay claim to the strip of land between their cottage and the lake? If not, constructing a boathouse or other structure could be tricky.

Will you need a WETT inspection?

If your dream cottage contains a traditional fireplace, you may need to have a WETT (Wood Energy Transfer Technology) inspection performed. Through this process, a certified professional takes a close look at wood-burning appliances to ensure they’re safe. The truth is, taking this step is about more than just ensuring your peace of mind. It’s also necessary for obtaining insurance.

Working with the right agent is key

The process of purchasing a cottage is unique, and a real estate professional who understands its intricacies is worth their weight in gold. From knowing what to look (and lookout) for when it comes to this type of property to performing due diligence once you find the perfect place, your agent should act as your guide at every step.

By choosing someone you trust and ensuring they have cottage expertise, you can help ensure that your purchase is both smooth and successful!

Ready to find your ideal cottage? Check out the latest local listings, or get in touch to learn more about buying with our team!