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Connecticut’s charm extends beyond its coastline, with a plethora of picturesque lakeside communities. For those seeking tranquility, natural beauty, and recreational opportunities, lakeside living in Connecticut is a dream come true. In this guide, we’ll explore some of the best lakeside communities in the state, where you can enjoy the perfect blend of waterfront living and modern amenities.
The Allure of Lakeside Communities
Lakeside communities offer a unique lifestyle where you can wake up to serene water views, enjoy recreational activities like boating and fishing, and relish the peace and quiet that only waterfront living provides. These communities often have close-knit neighborhoods, and the natural surroundings provide a calming backdrop to your daily life.
Candlewood Lake
New Fairfield, Sherman, Brookfield, Danbury
Candlewood Lake, the largest lake in Connecticut, stretches across several towns, making it a hub for lakeside living. New Fairfield, Sherman, Brookfield, and Danbury each offer their own distinct lakeside experiences.
Lake Candlewood
By Carol M. Highsmith - Library of CongressCatalog: http://lccn.loc.gov/2012631637Image download: https://cdn.loc.gov/master/pnp/highsm/20200/20228a.tifOriginal url: http://hdl.loc.gov/loc.pnp/highsm.20228, Public Domain, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=51662485
Lake Candlewood
CC BY-SA 3.0, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?curid=3876270
Lake Waramaug – New Preston
Lake Waramaug, located in New Preston, is a hidden gem in Connecticut. The lake offers clear waters and picturesque surroundings, perfect for swimming, boating, and fishing. The town of New Preston features charming shops, making it a quaint and inviting lakeside community.
Lake Wauremaug
By User:Magicpiano - Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=50488446
Bantam Lake
Morris, Litchfield CT
Bantam Lake, the largest natural lake in Connecticut, is divided between the towns of Morris and Litchfield. The lake’s natural beauty is enhanced by the absence of commercial development on its shores, making it a peaceful escape for residents.
The lake also has two public beaches, Morris Town Beach and Sandy Beach. It is home to the Bantam Lake Ski Club, the oldest, continuously operating water ski club in the United States, as well as the Litchfield Hills Rowing Club
Bantam Lake
By John Phelan - Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=69309840
Highland Lake
Winchester, CT
Highland Lake, situated in Winchester, is known for its clear waters and vibrant community. The lake offers a range of water activities, and the town hosts annual events that bring residents together. Highland Lake is a prime spot for lakeside living that combines recreation and a strong sense of community.
The lake is popular for recreational purposes, including boating and fishing. The Connecticut Department of Environmental Protection stocks the lake annually with fish, and considers it a Trophy Trout and Bass Management Lake
Antique Postcard showing Highland Lake
Lake Zoar
Southbury, Monroe, Oxford
Lake Zoar is a picturesque gem nestled within the towns of Southbury, Monroe, and Oxford, offering a tranquil and scenic lakeside living experience. Living at Lake Zoar means waking up to breathtaking water views every day, with opportunities for swimming, boating, and fishing just steps from your doorstep. The lake’s serene ambiance and proximity to various charming towns make it an ideal destination for those seeking a blend of natural beauty and modern amenities. Whether you’re lounging on your private lakeside deck, exploring nearby hiking trails, or enjoying a day on the water, Lake Zoar provides a harmonious lakeside lifestyle that captures the essence of Connecticut’s stunning landscapes.
Lake Zoar is renowned locally as one of Connecticut’s most serene kayaking locations. Lake Zoar is not stocked yearly with fish by the Connecticut Department of Environmental Protection, but the Pootatuck and Pomperaug rivers feed into it are heavily stocked with trout, many of which eventually make their way into the lake. Nearby hiking trails offer access to Connecticut’s pristine forests.
Lake Zoar from Pomperaug Trail south of Jackson Cove Town Park
By Morrowlong - Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=53400800
FAQS about Lakeside Living in Connecticut
- All
- Attractions
- Coastal
- Commuting
- Confidentiality
- Day Trips
- Finding Land
- Golf
- Historic Homes
- Home Inspections
- Homesteading
- Horse Farms
- Lakeside
- Litchfield County
- Luxury Homes
- Midcentury Modern
- Moving to CT
- Pets
- Real Estate Terminology
- Ridgefield
- Staging
- State Parks
- Towns
- Trusts
- Waterfront
- Wine Cellars
Yes, buyers can use the inspection report as a negotiation tool, either to lower the purchase price or to request repairs.
Home inspection costs vary based on factors like location and property size. On average, expect to pay a few hundred to a thousand dollars.
Sellers are not obligated to make repairs, but negotiations can take place based on the inspection report. It depends on the terms agreed upon in the contract.
Yes, buyers are encouraged to attend the inspection. It’s an opportunity to ask questions, gain insights, and understand the property’s condition firsthand.
The duration of a home inspection varies but typically takes 2 to 4 hours, depending on the property’s size and complexity.
A home inspection provides a comprehensive evaluation of the property’s condition, helping buyers make informed decisions and uncover potential issues.
Connecticut experiences all four seasons, making it a year-round destination. Spring and fall are particularly popular for their pleasant weather and beautiful scenery.
Connecticut is known for its outdoor recreational opportunities, with activities like hiking, boating, and skiing available throughout the state.
Commute times can vary depending on your location. In urban areas, the average commute time is around 25-30 minutes, while rural areas may have shorter commutes. For New York City commuters, a drive from Greenwich is around an hour and a half, with nearby train access to grand central as well.
Connecticut’s cost of living varies by region, with urban areas generally having a higher cost of living than rural areas. The highest cost of living tends to be the Gold Coast area bordering Long Island Sound and the New York state line, while the cheapest areas are in the Naugatuck Valley.
Connecticut boasts picturesque beaches. Hammonasset Beach State Park in Madison is one of the most popular, with its sandy shores and diverse wildlife. For a quieter experience, visit Rocky Neck State Park in Niantic, known for its tranquil atmosphere and beautiful landscapes.
Connecticut is home to some great zoos. Be sure to visit Beardsley Zoo in Bridgeport, offering a variety of animals and educational programs. Another top pick is LEO Zoological Conservation Center in Greenwich, known for its conservation efforts and unique animal species.
Connecticut offers some fantastic aquariums. The top choices include Mystic Aquarium in Mystic, featuring marine life and interactive exhibits, and The Maritime Aquarium in Norwalk, showcasing a diverse collection of sea creatures and an IMAX theater.
Old Saybrook offers several must-visit historical sites, including the General William Hart House and the well-preserved historic district.
The Litchfield Hills region in Connecticut is perfect for outdoor lovers, with hiking trails, conservation centers, and scenic views.
The Freedom Trail is a 2.5-mile-long path that takes you to 16 historical sites in Boston, offering a glimpse into the events that shaped American history.
Some of the best day trip destinations within driving distance from Connecticut include Newport, Rhode Island, New York City, Boston Massachussets, Mystic, and the Berkshires in Massachusetts.
Lakeside communities often have environmental regulations in place to protect the natural beauty of the area. These regulations may pertain to water quality, shoreline preservation, and wildlife conservation.
You can search for lakeside properties in Connecticut through local real estate agencies, online listings, and by connecting with experienced real estate agents.
Lakeside living in Connecticut offers breathtaking natural beauty, water-based recreation, a close-knit community, and a serene lifestyle.
Ridgefield is known for its tight-knit, friendly community with a strong sense of civic engagement.
Ridgefield offers limited public transportation options including a “town loop” bus, but long distance buses and commuter trains can be accessed in neighboring towns.
The commute to New York City is approximately 1-1.5 hours by car or you can take a train from the nearby town of Katonah.
Ridgefield provides ample opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts, including hiking, biking, bird-watching, and relaxation in its nature reserves and parks.
Notable residents of Ridgefield include actor David Cassidy, singer Judy Collins, actor Giancarlo Esposito, New Yorker columnist Roz Chast, and Edward Kowalczyk of rock band Live.
Ridgefield was founded in 1708 when 24 families from Long Island Sound settlements bought the land from Ramapoo Indians. The lots were located up and down Main Street from a Common where a Meeting House was built. By the 1820s, Ridgefield became a manufacturing town, with manufacturers on south Main Street making candlesticks, furniture, and shirts. By the turn of the industrial revolution, Ridgefield’s distance from water to supply power resulted in a downturn in production, and the town found itself reborn as a vacation destination and second home for wealthy new yorkers.
Pets on a leash are permitted in most state parks and forests, except in buildings, swimming areas and camping areas. Pets are not permitted: Sherwood Island or Squantz Pond State Parks between April 15 and September 30, at Dinosaur State Park, in the formal gardens or beaches at Harkness Memorial State Park. Pets are permitted in State Forest camping areas, , but must be on a leash no longer than 7 feet at all times. Pets are not allowed in cabins or on rustic cabin sites.
Points are a percentage of a loan amount paid up front to reduce the interest rate. Each point equals 1% of the mortgage loan. Paying points lowers the ongoing monthly payments.
APR stands for annual percentage rate. It represents the true annual cost of borrowing by including the interest rate plus certain fees and points.
Amortization is the process of gradually paying down a mortgage loan over time through monthly payments. Each payment chips away at the principal and interest until the loan is fully paid off.
An escrow account holds funds slated for property taxes and homeowner’s insurance. Lenders require escrow accounts to ensure these costs are paid on time. A portion of the monthly mortgage payment goes into escrow.
Earnest money refers to a deposit paid by the home buyer to show their serious intent to purchase the property. It is usually 1-5% of the sales price and goes toward the down payment if the deal closes.
PMI stands for private mortgage insurance. It protects the lender if the borrower defaults. PMI is usually required if you put down less than 20% on a home.
Major structural/foundation defects, extensive roof damage, faulty electrical or plumbing, HVAC/appliance issues, fire & safety hazards, outdated systems, or signs of extensive water damage/pests would likely cause a home to fail inspection.
Usually 1-3 hours depending on the home’s size. The inspector will need access to the entire property during that time.
Cost ranges from $300-$500 depending on home size, location, scope of inspection, and additional tests. Larger homes with multiple systems cost more. Get quotes from a few inspectors.
Typically no, unless you can prove the seller hid a known defect. This is why a careful inspection before closing is critical.
An inspection evaluates physical condition while an appraisal focuses on valuation. Inspections happen before closing while appraisals are for the lender to assess if home value supports the loan.
Yes, it’s highly recommended that buyers attend the inspection. It’s an opportunity to learn about the home’s systems, ask questions, and gain insight that will be useful later on.
Remove bulky furniture like coffee tables, corner hutches and oversized ottomans. Position sofas and chairs at angles to open up flow.
Yes, remove all personal photos and children’s artwork. Buyers can’t envision living there when they see your family. Store these items while selling.
Yes, hiring a pro is one of the best investments when selling your home. They have the expertise to make your property stand out and highlight its strengths.
Updating kitchens and bathrooms by installing new fixtures and hardware gives you the biggest bang for your buck. Most buyers want updated kitchens and baths.
Repainting the entire interior is unnecessary for most homes. Focus on painting damaged walls and adding fresh neutral paint in high-traffic areas like living rooms.
Ideally stage your home 1-2 weeks before listing it. This gives you time to complete renovations, deep clean, rearrange furniture and remove clutter without feeling rushed.
Yes, title insurance protects against claims that could challenge your legal ownership. It covers liens, legal errors, unpaid taxes, and other title defects for the property that a title search didn’t uncover prior to purchase.
It’s generally wise to use a realtor when buying vacant land, as you benefit from their local expertise, negotiation skills, and MLS access. But you can find affordable FSBO deals without an agent if you do thorough research and get legal guidance.
Lakefront and oceanfront parcels are rare and pricey but possible. Listings on coastal outskirts of Bridgeport, New Haven, Groton, and Stonington may offer water access. Inland listings near Candlewood Lake, Highland Lake, and Lake Waramaug also provide water recreation.
Recommended inspections include: survey, title search, soil tests, environmental assessment, septic evaluation, checking for easements or right of ways, groundwater testing, perc test, and identifying wetlands or flood zones.
Local zoning regulations determine if you can place a tiny home on a land parcel. Some rural towns allow tiny houses, while suburbs may prohibit them. Research zoning rules on minimum dwelling size.
Property taxes in Connecticut are among the highest in the U.S., though vacant land has lower taxes than developed properties. Average taxes on vacant land range from 1-2% of assessed value. Rates vary by town.
For more affordable land, look in rural areas farther from cities and desirable amenities. Seek parcels without existing structures that need clearing or have limited utility access. Consider adjacent less pricey regions like northeastern PA, upstate New York, or the Naugatuck Valley.
Land prices vary dramatically based on location and acreage size. Rural undeveloped parcels can cost $5,000 – $15,000 per acre. In suburban or urban areas, land can cost over $100,000 per acre. Smaller lots under an acre may start between $50,000 – $150,000.
- The public has the right to fish and shellfish over submerged lands. Peck v. Lockwood, 5 Day 22 (1811);
- The public has the right to pass and repass in navigable rivers. Adams v. Pease, 2 Conn 481 (1818);
- The public may gather seaweed between ordinary high water and low water. Chapman v. Kimball, 9 Day 38 (1831);
No. You cannot own a beach in the sense of having exclusive rights, but portions of beachfront can be privately owned property in Connecticut. Above the mean high tide line, private property rights apply to dry sand beach areas. However, below the mean high tide line, Connecticut beaches are subject to public ownership and access as part of the public trust doctrine. Private owners must accommodate public use rights to some extent, such as allowing access to the water. But the public does not have unlimited access across private dry sand beaches in Connecticut.
Research flood zones, erosion history, storm vulnerability, insurance costs, sea level rise impacts, and proper title documentation.
No, in Connecticut intertidal areas between the mean high and low tide lines are still considered public trust lands, even when exposed.
The public does not have an unlimited right to cross private uplands. However, the state may allow reasonable access across private dry sand areas.
New Canaan, Wilton, Westport, and Darien currently have the most options, but inventory changes. An agent can help you identify potential pockets of availability.
Search for agents listed on historical home sites or specializing in architectural properties. Interview agents about their background with MidCentury houses, preservation experience, and inventory knowledge.
Maintenance costs can vary, but budgeting for around $500 to $1,500 annually is recommended.
Inconsistent temperature/humidity, mold, dampness, odors, cracked walls or floors, non-functioning cooling or humidification systems, or insufficient racking.
A professionally built wine cellar can increase a home’s value by 5-15%. Luxury custom cellars can boost value further.
Yes, collectors insurance will cover your wine against damage, theft, or other losses. Discuss options with your insurance agent.
Ask about the storage capacity, racking system, climate control features, any problems with temperature/humidity, and maintenance history.
Wine storage specialists, climate control technicians, architects, designers, general contractors, and racking experts help build optimal cellars.
Yes, title insurance can still be issued in the name of an LLC or trustee to protect your purchase. Work with companies experienced in confidential closings.
A real estate attorney experienced in confidential transactions can advise you. A discreet real estate agent who understands your privacy needs is also key. Ensure you work with a certified or licensed realtor.
Work with a title company that allows confidential closing without recording the buyer’s details. Pay with an electronic transfer from an anonymous account.
An LLC allows the buyer’s name to stay off all purchase documents, offering complete anonymity throughout the transaction.
Check sites like Zillow, Trulia, Redfin, and local real estate agents for listings with 10+ acres and land use specifications. Drive around areas of interest as well. Consulting a specialized real estate agent can help find qualified properties that may not be listed on the MLS.
Contact the town hall or consult municipal codes to understand ordinances related to agriculture, livestock, and other typical homesteading uses before purchasing land.
Key factors include available land, cost of properties, zoning laws related to agriculture and livestock, and access to amenities like grocery stores and hospitals.
The biggest benefits are the relatively low cost of living with a shorter commute and more amenities compared to nearby states, abundance of land and space in many areas, and the presence of tight-knit rural communities.
Top venues for theater and the arts are the Shubert Theatre, Bushnell Center for the Performing Arts, Yale Repertory Theatre, Goodspeed Opera House, and Eugene O’Neill Theater Center.
Recommended factory and winery tours include Litchfield Distillery, the Essex Steam Train, Connecticut Wine Trail, Trash Museum, Connecticut Valley Tobacco Museum, and UpCountry Brewing Company.
Top amusement and water parks include Lake Compounce, Quassy Amusement Park, Brownstone Exploration & Discovery Park, and Splash Adventure Waterpark.
Important historic sites to visit are Mystic Seaport, Mark Twain House, Harkness Memorial State Park, Pequot Museum, Weir Farm National Historic Site, and Fort Griswold Battlefield State Park.
Top museums in Connecticut include the Yale University Art Gallery, Mystic Seaport, Wadsworth Atheneum, New England Air Museum, Mark Twain House, and Connecticut River Museum.
Great family-friendly attractions in Connecticut include Lake Compounce Amusement Park, Mystic Aquarium, Dinosaur State Park, Connecticut Science Center, and Beardsley Zoo.
Flood insurance is highly recommended, and may even be required by your mortgage lender for a home in a high-risk flood zone. Be sure to discuss insurance needs with your real estate agent.
Waterfront homes generally command premiums of 50-100% more compared to similar non-waterfront homes in the same market. Prime locations can demand over 200% higher prices.
Yes, waterfront homes are assessed at higher values, which leads to higher property tax bills. Factor this into your homebuying budget if buying a waterfront home.
Luxury homes in Connecticut offer exquisite craftsmanship, high-end amenities, and a superior living experience across a variety of architectural styles and neighborhood lifestyles.
The record is believed to be the $190 million sale of Copper Beech Farm in Greenwich in 2014. Several other $50+ million sales have occurred around Greenwich.
Yes, parts of West Hartford like the Blue Back Square district are considered luxury areas, with historic mansions and new custom homes priced over $2 million.
Greenwich consistently ranks as Connecticut’s most expensive luxury real estate market. Median home values top $1.5 million, with many sales over $5 million. Darien and New Canaan also rank highly.
Yes, highly recommended. A knowledgeable agent helps set your price ranges, identifies off-market inventory, negotiates effectively, and assists with contracts and inspections.
The luxury segment in Connecticut generally starts around $1.5 million, with most properties above $3 million. Homes priced over $10 million would be considered ultra-luxury.
In Connecticut, plan for at least 1-2 acres of pasture per horse for adequate grazing, depending on soil and grass quality. Proper rotation is key to maintaining healthy pastures.
The electrical system, including lighting, outlets and wiring should be the top safety priority. Faulty electrical can lead to fire risks and electrical shocks.
Expect to budget $2,000-5,000 per year for basic horse barn maintenance including repairs, bedding, cleaning supplies, insurance and regular upkeep costs.
The average price of a home with a barn on the property in Connecticut is around $1,600,000. The average cost per acre for homes with barns is around $40,000.
Yes, it’s important to obtain the necessary permits before undertaking any renovations. In any renovation where structural changes take place, your local building department is likely to require a permit. Be sure to consult a certified home improvement contractor before beginning work.
The top luxury destinations are Lakeville, Litchfield, Kent, Salisbury, and Sharon. Each town offers historic charm, boutiques, restaurants, and activities.
Hiking, boating, horseback riding, cycling, fishing, and golfing. The area has thousands of acres of state parks and forests.
Some of the top Golf Courses located near Litchfield County include Connecticut National Golf Club, Torrington Country Club, Winvian Farm Golf Club.
Search the National Register of Historic Places and check with your city and county assessor’s office to see if the home is individually listed or part of a historic district.
Conventional mortgages, FHA loans, and home equity loans can all work. Talk to lenders specializing in historic properties about options like construction loans or renovation financing.
In addition to a general home inspector, consider hiring specialists like a preservation architect, structural engineer, and HVAC/plumbing professionals used to working on old homes.
Additions are possible but must be approved by the local historic commission. Make sure to follow guidelines on placement, size, height, materials, and design compatibility.
Yes, trusts are commonly used by real estate investors in CT to purchase investment properties while obtaining legal and tax advantages.
Costs vary, but plan on $1500 – $5000 to create a trust and add real estate assets to it. The trustee may also charge annual fees.
Living trusts generally provide more benefits like privacy and probate avoidance. LLCs offer liability protection but less estate planning advantages.
Yes, you can place your primary home in a living trust in CT. This provides probate avoidance and other benefits while still living there.
No, transferring a home into a trust is considered a sale, so capital gains taxes still apply based on the home’s increased value.
Yes, most lenders will approve mortgages for trusts, though interest rates may be higher than personal loans. The trustee’s credit is usually considered.
Some of the most reasonably priced waterfront communities in CT include Norwalk, Milford, Stratford, Bridgeport, and Old Saybrook. Luxury homes in Greenwich and Westport are significantly higher.
Yes, waterfront homes appreciate faster than inland homes in CT due to high demand. Greenwich waterfront in particular has seen dramatic home value increases, appreciating faster than the S&P 500.
Flood insurance costs vary based on the FEMA flood zone rating and home elevation and range from $500 per year up to $5000+ for high risk zones. Higher value homes also have higher premiums.
Taking Metro-North is generally better since you can relax or work instead of fighting traffic. Monthly rail passes also offer discounts, but driving 1-3 times per week can break up the commute.
Norwalk, Stratford, Bridgeport, and Milford are among the most reasonably priced towns for homebuyers. Stamford also has affordable condo and rental options. Prices rise significantly heading toward Greenwich.
Top family-friendly towns include Westport, Wilton, Madison, and Glastonbury which offer highly rated schools, safe neighborhoods, amenities like parks and beaches, and reasonable commutes to NYC.
Commute times range from 35 minutes from Stamford to nearly 1.5 hours from the easternmost towns. Most Fairfield County towns have commutes between 45-55 minutes to Grand Central Station in Manhattan.
The top public school districts in southwestern Connecticut are Greenwich, Westport, Wilton, Darien, and New Canaan. All provide a high quality education coupled with reasonable commute times under two hours to New York City.
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Meet Sarah Perrotti
REB.0793764
Based in Litchfield County, Connecticut, Sarah is a distinguished full-time realtor specializing in luxury properties and concierge services tailored to discerning buyers and sellers.
With a Masters degree in Social Work, Sarah brings a unique perspective to real estate, ensuring confidentiality and seamless transactions.
