Lake Tahoe Real Estate
Lake Tahoe, which straddles California and Nevada, is the largest alpine lake in the United States. It is the perfect place for a vacation home no matter what kind of vacation your family enjoys, whether it is skiing in the winter or summer water sports. Pristine wooded mountains which surround the area, including several world-renowned ski areas; there is the spectacular freshwater, crystalline lake; there are upscale shopping areas and restaurants; and, of course, the famous casinos for the adults on the Nevada side. Don't forget the headline entertainment which performs at casinos all year long.
There is also an abundance of peace, quiet, nature, and relaxation. Perhaps an afternoon horseback ride, or a hike into the mountains, some cross-country skiing, or just watching the snow fall or the lingering sunset. Year round, Lake Tahoe is the best getaway in the country.
So you are thinking, that sounds great but where do I start? I know Lake Tahoe is big with a lot of different places to live, and many different types of homes to buy. How do I find out where my family would be happiest?
We will sort it out for you. Here are the general geographic areas and their profiles.
The south shore of Lake Tahoe is where South Lake Tahoe in California sits right next to Stateline, Nevada. Tahoe City is on the northwest shore in California. Crystal Bay is located at the north end of the lake and is in both states. Over the Nevada border on the northernmost tip of the lake is Incline Village.
There are several ski areas around Lake Tahoe. Most are on the northern end of the lake near the towns of Truckee, CA and Reno, NV. That area includes the famous Squaw Valley ski resort, home of the 1960 Olympics. In the southern area is home to a couple of the most popular ski resorts, namely Heavenly and Kirkwood ski resorts. Generally, visitors will stay in the region of their favorite ski area.
Other popular winter sports include cross country skiing, sledding, snow tubing, snowmobiling, and snowshoeing.
Summer activities center on the lake. South Lake Tahoe and Stateline are the most popular areas for sailing, and other boating activities. Hiking, biking, and horseback riding trails surround the lake including the Tahoe Rim Trail which runs the 165 mile circumference.
But don't forget the thrill of gambling in Nevada. On the North Shore, there is the Cal-Neva Lodge and Casino, the Crystal Bay Club, and other casinos. Incline Village has the Hyatt Regency Resort, Spa and Casino. But the most popular casinos are on the South Shore in Stateline where the casinos resemble the bright lights of Las Vegas.
Lake Tahoe is very large and you should decide which area has the most appeal for you and your family. Your vacation home can be a single family residence or a condo, a small cabin or a large estate, modern or rustic, in California or Nevada, situated for skiing or for summer sports,and in the wilderness or in a city.
Prices run to whatever your budget allows. You can buy a small house or condo for under $300,000. If you only plan to spend a few weeks at the lake each year, that might be perfect.
If you are unconcerned about the price, there is a magnificent property for sale in Incliine Village for $47 million. Prices of individual properties are available through individual real estate websites and agents.
The weather is a moderate four-season model. Although extreme heat and cold have been recorded in the area, the typical seasons are quite mild, with the summer highs in the 70s and the winter lows hitting just below freezing. As you move higher up into the mountains, the weather turns much colder and more unpredictable than it is in the basin.
So say hello to Lake Tahoe and all of the fun your family will be having.