Lakefront or Backlot, First and Last Questions

• Castle on the Lake, Affordable for Some, Prohibitive for ManyImage by Flickr.com, courtesy of ezioman
  
  Property values differ all over the planet. A lakefront or backlot in Switzerland or Italy may be quite different in many ways from a lakefront lot in some more obscure or undeveloped place. But the main premise may be as simple as what the price of the lot is that one really wants. If a person desires a particular lakefront property, and can afford that property, and the market value is a fair price, all things considered, then there is no obstacle or need for further consideration---that lot can, and probably should, be purchased. For others, the question is about the value and cost relationships that exist between lakefront and backlot properties. If lakefront is too much, and out of budget, then backlot is a more or less forced choice.
  
  

Lakefront vs Back Lot Prices and Costs

• Simple Mountain View of a Lake Satisfies Many PeopleImage by Flickr.com, courtesy of Šþ «h
  
  Lakefront properties may be only 2-5 times more expensive than a backlot, or lakefronts may be as as high as 4-50 times more expensive than backlots. Local real estate agents, newspapers and real estate magazines, as well as the real estate tax commission office, have figures available on the costs and value of lake properties in areas of a buyer's interest. A lakefront lot may have, in addition to a high purchase price, a very high tax bill. A million dollar lot may carry a $10,000 or more tax assessment with it. So, the asking price and the tax costs of any lot is an important consideration before any purchase of a lakefront or back lot.
  
  

Backlots Save Money and Have Value

• Lake Access and Lakferont Privileges are GreatImage by Flickr.com, courtesy of Richie Diesterheft
  
  A backlot in a developing lake community can have great potential value. A simple access to the lake (lake access backlots) or marina accessibility, may provide all that one needs to enjoy the full benefits of a lake at significantly reduced costs. In the United States backlots may be as inexpensive as $20,000-$80,000, and these lots often provide great lake views, and access to the lake for boating and swimming. Backlots may also be larger in size, less noisy, and more serene and peaceful. The taxes are, also, frequently, much lower than lakefront lots and developed properties.
  
  

Lake Access and Taxes Important for Lake Properties

• Lakefront and Backlot Choices AboundImage by Flickr.com, courtesy of Ellie Van Houtte
  
  Access to the lake is important for many. Lakefronts always have direct access, backlots may or may not have granted easements, with or without dock privileges. It is important to know about those details before signing any purchase contract. The actual yearly taxes and assessment should also be determined. Ten-year trends are important to see. What happened from 2000 to 2010 for the tax assessment on this property?
  
  

Lakefront and Backlot Choices Abound; Choose Wisely

• A Peaceful Lakeside ViewImage by Flickr.com, courtesy of off to London for a while) (Kathleen Conklin
  
  There are many roads that lead to many lakes, lakefronts and backlots. Think about location, cost for initial purchase, tax costs and budget limitations, if any. Deeds, covenants, and lot restrictions are important, and one should make sure that all these are all fully understood before any transaction is finalized. Ask questions, read the local newspapers and study all free available literature and websites. A trusted, honest real estate agent can save one from making mistakes and losing money. A wise investor does intelligent things with all the available financial resources. Make good choices and enjoy the lake!