Lake Forest Hills

Enjoyed the fall colors in our cove this year!

Perfect day for a cup of hot tea and a good book.

Our east-facing view provides a late afternoon display of rainbow color (this one a full double) several times a year.

A Taste of Spring!

A few of our wonderful Ozark colors

Choosing a Country Home Site Imagine for a moment your ideal country home retreat. Whether choosing a gathering place for friends, or a safe-haven of solitude, keeping a vision of the desired country home and surroundings is the essential first step in the planning process. David Bartlett, custom home builder and developer in the Branson/Lakes Area, suggests a number of important points to ensure the country home satisfies the needs of its inhabitants, maintains its value, a...nd is worthy of tradition. The Ozark Mountains are home to many beautiful wooded settings. But to maximize the benefits of the country home and to secure the property value, one should begin by considering access to activities and interests of importance to the owner. Proximity to private boat dock access, shopping facilities, dining and entertainment are primary needs for many. Also consider the distance from major highways or arteries. What is the travel time required to enjoy your country home? What are the conditions of access roads in the general area being considered? David suggests carefully driving the general area. Get a feeling of the surrounding property. Is the area made up of strictly residential, nightly rentals, mixed residential and commercial? What is known about the neighboring home sites, property values and restrictions, the topography and the landscape? Once a general location has been chosen, research county zoning. If the property is in a planned development, research the existence of a registered property owners association and the recorded restrictions of the development. Do the utility hook-ups include engineered state approved water and sewage treatment, and if so, what is the condition of the infrastructure and the permit status with government authorities? When considering lake sites, a lake view or lakefront may be the priority. Matching the home plan to the site will result in cost savings as well as enhanced esthetics. There are many excellent designs that lend themselves to steeper slopes or narrow sites. If the owner has a specific floor plan in mind, then the home site should fit the plan. If a certain site is the priority, for example one with a terrific view, then choosing a plan that fits the site and takes advantage of the view will help to narrow the wide array of home plan options. A trusted attorney or qualified realty specialist should handle the actual land transaction. Proper planning and a disciplined search should be part of the fun and a primary building block to a valuable and rewarding experience in choosing the country home site.