5 Tahoe Buyer Tips

If you’re looking to buy a vacation-resort second home/condo in the Tahoe market, here are 5 Tahoe buyer tips to keep in mind.

1.) Location, location, location – it’s true in Tahoe too. Location is just as important here as it is every where else. Not all Tahoe locations are equal. The same A-frame cabin in one neighborhood can be worth a lot more than the same one just a few blocks away. Special features such as home owner association memberships, walking distance to Lake Tahoe, backing to open space, or a steep driveway can make significant value differences. Some features may seem obvious that will add, or take away value, but others may not be as apparent. Local Tahoe knowledge is extremely valuable and your Tahoe real estate professional will be able to help you establish valuations for the properties you are interested in.

2.) Furnishings are negotiable. A lot has changed with getting a loan, so buying a Tahoe property with furnishings is not as easy as it once was, but sellers are still looking to include them in the sale of their Tahoe second homes, so don’t forget to ask if they are available.

3.) Ask for the Bear Box. In Tahoe, a bear box is a secured container that your garbage cans are stored in. They are called “Bear Boxes” because they have been designed to prevent the local wildlife from breaking in and scattering your garbage through-out the neighborhood. Like a built-in appliance, the bear box should be permanently attached to the property, and should come with the property, but just in case, make sure to include this item as something to be left behind by the seller and include it in your offer.

4.) Be Flexible. Buyers start their search for the perfect Tahoe lakefront, cabin, home, or condo on the internet. What a buyer can’t see on-line is the over all setting, or feel a neighborhood, or location has to offer. Pictures are great, but they often don’t show how close the next door neighbor really is, or how loud the road noise will be at that location. Be flexible and open to seeing other homes that aren’t on your list. Remember, some places don’t photograph well and just show better in person. Being flexible will allow you to find the best Tahoe property.

5.) Tahoe Vacation Rentals. If you’re thinking about doing some short-term vacation rentals to off-set your operating costs, be sure to ask you local Tahoe real estate professional if the property you are seeing is currently on a vacation rental program. Now is the time to find out what features make a vacation property more rentable over others.

These quick 5 Tahoe buyer tips are things to keep in mind as you search for the perfect Tahoe vacation property. For more Tahoe buyer tips and information visit | 530.414.1260 for all of your Tahoe real estate needs.

 Overview and summary completed by:
Laura A. Allen | 530.414.1260  | Laura@TahoeLaura.com
BROKER ASSOCIATE, Tahoe Real Estate Agent
CalRE# 01473598
Coldwell Banker, Tahoe City, CA CalRE#01908304