10 luxurious lake houses for less than $300,000
It's a common dream among homebuyers: Peace and quiet, a warm beverage and a cool lakefront breeze hitting the porch of a cozy getaway.
Despite rising home prices, achieving this dream could actually be possible for people without millions in the bank. But, as usual with real estate, it all comes down to where you look.
For less than $300,000 -- about $100,000 more than the national median home value, which is currently $200,400 according to Zillow -- buyers can find lakeside homes with surprisingly luxe features. In some markets, fire pits, large outdoor entertaining areas and even private docks are available at this price.
The amenities typically don't end at the back door, either. In Kimberling City, Missouri, a $300,000 budget could get you two full kitchens and a sun room. In Cherry Log, Georgia, it could get you vaulted ceilings, a stone fireplace and a jetted bathtub.
Whether you're thinking of investing in a waterfront escape or want some inspiration for your next vacation, click ahead to see 10 lake houses that are as luxurious as they are (relatively) affordable.
Ashtabula, Ohio
This four-bedroom, three-bathroom house on the shore of Lake Erie in Ashtabula, Ohio, is listed for $299,900. The property has lake access and is 3 miles from Walnut Beach where there are tennis, basketball and volleyball courts, a nature trail and lifeguards on duty during the day.
Ashtabula, Ohio
The house was built in 1925 and has been landscaped to maximize the home's views of the lake, according to the listing. It has the original hardwood floors, a formal dining room, a sun room and several porches.
Kimberling City, Missouri
This three-bedroom, three-bathroom house on the main channel of Table Rock Lake in Kimberling City, Missouri, is listed for $274,500. While the home itself doesn't appear to have direct lake access, there's a marina nearby, according to the listing.
Kimberling City, Missouri
The 3,860-square-foot house was built in 1990. It has a fireplace, sun room, two kitchens and a multipurpose space that opens onto a patio with views of the lake. Outside, there are two decks, one of which includes a fire pit with a removable grill.
Lake Wales, Florida
This three-bedroom, two-bathroom house on Lake Rosalie in Lake Wales, Florida, is for sale for $295,000. The home has direct access to the lake via a small dock. There's also a marina within "walking distance" of the home, according to the listing.
Lake Wales, Florida
The 3,281-square-foot house was built in 1987. It has two screened porches and a deck, plus vaulted ceilings and tall windows that face the lake. The first level of the house has a separate one-bedroom apartment that could be used as a mother-in-law suite or rental.
Hot Springs, Arizona
This two-bedroom, one-bathroom house on Lake Hamilton in Hot Springs, Arizona, is for sale for $285,000. The home is right on the lake with a wooden boardwalk.
Hot Springs, Arizona
The 1,408-square-foot house was built in 1962, and the interior has been remodeled in a vintage style, according to the listing. It has a wood-burning fireplace, security system, front porch and covered patio.
Cherry Log, Georgia
This two-bedroom, two-bathroom cabin on Lake Allen in Cherry Log, Georgia, is for sale for $239,900. The home overlooks the lake on a hillside and has direct access via a private dock. The property also has a gated driveway.
Cherry Log, Georgia
The home was built in 1999 and has vaulted ceilings, a stone fireplace, a jetted tub and a loft space above the great room. It also has a covered deck that looks out over the water.
Lewisville, North Carolina
This four-bedroom, three-bathroom house on Lake Falmouth in Lewisville, North Carolina, is for sale for $299,900. The gated property provides access to the lake via a private dock.
Lewisville, North Carolina
The 2,424-square-foot home was built in 1979. It has stainless steel appliances, a brick fireplace, some hardwood flooring, a brick patio and a second floor deck with a screened-in porch.
Milford, Pennsylvania
This three-bedroom, three-bathroom house on Spruce Lake in Milford, Pennsylvania, is for sale for $256,000. The property is wooded and landscaped with a footpath that leads to a private dock.
Milford, Pennsylvania
The 1,620-square-foot house was built in 1997. It has new flooring and paint, according to the listing, as well as a new security system. It has a fireplace, patio, finished basement and second-floor deck.
Vienna, New York
This three-bedroom, 1.5-bathroom house on Oneida Lake in Vienna, New York, is for sale for $269,000. The home has 100 feet of waterfront space, and according to the listing, a "sandy beach" is coming soon.
Vienna, New York
The 1,612-square-foot house was built in 1940. It has a stone fireplace and sun room and comes fully furnished.
Grove, Oklahoma
This two-bedroom, two-bathroom house on Grand Lake in Grove, Oklahoma, is for sale for $259,000. It has a covered boat dock with a slip.
Grove, Oklahoma
The 1,190-square-foot house was built in 2017. It has vaulted ceilings, granite countertops, stainless steel appliances and a walk-in closet. The property also features a covered patio facing the lake.
Bemidji, Minnesota
This two-bedroom, three-bathroom house on Bass Lake in Bemidji, Minnesota, is for sale for $299,000. The home has waterfront access with a wooden dock and a fire circle that faces the lake.
Bemidji, Minnesota
The 2,919-square-foot house was built in 1998. It has vaulted ceilings, a gas fireplace, granite countertops in the kitchen, a wet bar and multiple decks that face the lake.