Imagine waking up each morning to the serene view of water gently brushing against a lush shoreline, the sun casting its early rays over tranquil waters, and the peaceful solitude only a lakefront property can offer. Building a custom home in the Finger Lakes region is about creating a personal retreat and a lasting legacy. Whether it’s a summer getaway or a full-time residence, planning and knowledge can turn this dream into a splendid reality. Gerber is here to use our insight as expert home-builders to guide you through the essential considerations—from navigating local regulations to choosing sustainable building practices— to ensure you have all the information you need to plan your lakefront custom home or cottage.
Understanding Regulations and Permits
Building a home in the scenic Finger Lakes comes with its own set of rules and responsibilities, especially when it comes to preserving the area's natural beauty and ecological balance. Before you dive into your lakefront building plans, it’s crucial to understand the regulatory landscape.
Local Zoning Laws
Each town and county around the Finger Lakes has distinct zoning laws that govern construction activities near the waterfront. These regulations often dictate the size, placement, and sometimes even the style of your building to ensure it harmonizes with the scenic surroundings. For example, in some areas, how close to a lake you can build might be strictly controlled to preserve the shoreline and viewshed for all residents.
State Regulations
The New York State Environmental Quality Review Act (SEQRA) is pivotal in maintaining the lakes' pristine conditions. Under SEQRA, most developments undergo environmental impact assessments, which evaluate the potential effects of your proposed construction on the local environment. Adhering to these regulations helps protect the ecosystem and ensures that your investment remains a good one despite stringent state oversight.
Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC)
If your dream home plans include a dock for your boat or significant shoreline modifications, expect to deal with the DEC. This agency ensures that any construction activities, especially those involving water withdrawals or alterations to the lakefront, do not harm the lake’s health or the wildlife depending on it. Obtaining the necessary permits can be complex, requiring detailed documentation and sometimes even public hearings.
Environmental Considerations
Building on the shores of the Finger Lakes also requires homeowners to safeguard the ecosystem.
Water Quality Protection
The Finger Lakes' clarity and purity are integral to the ecological health and recreational value of the area. To protect these waters, activities that might affect water quality, such as construction runoff, waste disposal, and landscaping chemicals, are heavily regulated. Implementing stormwater management systems and ensuring proper sewage treatment are vital steps in preventing pollutants from compromising the lake.
Erosion Control
Shoreline erosion is a significant concern in lakefront properties due to its potential to affect water quality and land stability. Natural methods for erosion control include planting native vegetation along the shoreline, stabilizing the soil, and enhancing the habitat for local wildlife. For those needing more robust solutions, bioengineering techniques that combine natural and synthetic materials can offer attractive additional protection.
Wildlife and Habitat Protection
The Finger Lakes region is teeming with diverse flora and fauna, making it essential for construction projects to consider their potential impact on local habitats. If a building project disrupts these areas, mitigation measures may be required. Planning construction to avoid critical wildlife periods, such as nesting seasons, and creating buffer zones can help preserve the natural environment that makes lakefront properties so appealing.
Economic and Social Factors
Building a lakefront property in the Finger Lakes requires understanding the economic and social implications of such an investment. Involving your builder early in the process will help you make informed decisions while looking for the perfect building site or planning your custom home on your lakefront lot.
Property Values
Lakefront properties are highly valued and often command a premium in the real estate market. While lakefront homes can be expensive to purchase and maintain, they typically appreciate more significantly than their inland counterparts. Factors like waterfront access, views, and privacy typically drive this increased valuation, making lakefront properties a potentially lucrative investment. Prospective buyers should consider not only the initial cost but also the long-term financial implications, including property taxes and potential resale value.
Community and Neighbors
Building in a lakefront community often attracts greater scrutiny from neighbors and local citizen groups, particularly concerning environmental impact and adherence to community aesthetics. Being a good neighbor means respecting the existing community norms and engaging with local groups early in the planning process.
Insurance
Due to their exposure to natural elements such as flooding and storms, lakefront properties can carry higher insurance costs. Factors such as proximity to water, elevation, and local climate conditions can all affect insurance premiums. It’s advisable to consult with insurance providers early on to understand the coverage requirements and costs associated with owning a custom lakefront home, ensuring that you are prepared for any eventualities.
Sustainability
There’s a growing emphasis on sustainable building practices in the construction industry, particularly in ecologically sensitive areas like the Finger Lakes. Opting for energy-efficient appliances, renewable energy sources like solar panels, geothermal, and environmentally friendly building materials can reduce your home's environmental footprint. Employing sustainable practices such as rainwater harvesting and xeriscaping (water-use-conscious landscaping) can enhance your property's resilience to environmental changes while minimizing its impact on the local ecosystem.
Gerber Builds Your Lakefront Home or Cottage in the Finger Lakes
Ready to turn your lakefront dream into a reality with a partner who understands every nuance of building in the Finger Lakes? Gerber has extensive experience working in major towns across the region, including Canandaigua, Geneva, Penn Yan, and Watkins Glen. Contact Gerber Homes today. Let us help you explore your options, find the ideal lot, or optimize your current property for the ultimate lakeside living experience.