What Makes a Great Minnesota Lakeshore Lot? A Prior Lake Expert’s Perspective

When buying a lake home in Minnesota, the house is only part of the equation. The shoreline, elevation, water depth, view, privacy, and location on the lake can be just as important — both for enjoying the property and for future resale.

After decades of working with lakeshore buyers and sellers throughout Prior Lake, the South Metro, and greater Twin Cities area, Jim Slater has seen how dramatically these characteristics can differ from one property to the next. So, what actually makes one lakeshore lot more desirable than another?

What Makes a Lakeshore Lot Desirable?

While every buyer has different priorities, a wide, level lot with usable sandy shoreline, good water depth, privacy, and an expansive lake view is generally a highly desirable combination.

On Prior Lake, for example, wide, flat lots on the main body of Lower Prior Lake can be especially sought after when they combine good water depth, sandy shoreline, and an unobstructed view.

Direction matters, too. West-facing lakeshore is often desirable for sunset views, while east-facing properties offer beautiful sunrises and morning light. Ultimately, though, a wide, unobstructed lake view may be more important to a buyer than the direction itself.

Level vs. Elevated Lakeshore

Level or gradual lots are popular because they provide usable yard space and easy access between the home, shoreline, and dock. They’re especially attractive for entertaining, swimming, children, and anyone hoping to avoid numerous stairs to the water.

But don’t automatically rule out an elevated lot. Elevation can create spectacular panoramic views.

If a property sits above the lake, consider how well the home takes advantage of that view. Mature trees provide privacy, but they can also obstruct sightlines over time. Maintaining lake views through appropriate tree care, where permitted, can be important for both enjoyment and resale.

Shoreline & Water Depth Matter

A beautiful shoreline during a showing doesn’t always tell the whole story.

Is the lake bottom sandy, rocky, soft, or mucky? How quickly does the water become deep enough for swimming or boating? If swimming from shore is important, a usable sandy beach may carry significant value.

Buyers should also consider water depth during changing lake levels. Shallow bays can be more affected by periods of low water, potentially impacting docks, boat lifts, and boating access. On the other hand, buyers should understand the property’s elevation and potential flood exposure during periods of unusually high water.

This is particularly important on lakes such as Prior Lake, where water levels have fluctuated over time.

Don’t Overlook the Angle of the Shoreline

One detail many buyers don’t think about until they’re standing at the water is the shape and angle of the lakeshore.

A property may have substantial shoreline footage but narrow toward the water. On curved or pie-shaped lots, neighboring docks may naturally angle toward one another.

That can affect dock and boat lift placement, maneuverability, swimming space, and privacy.

Whenever possible, we recommend evaluating a serious lakeshore prospect from the water as well as from land, which is why Jim Slater takes his clients out by boat to learn the lake. The view from a boat can reveal things about the shoreline, neighboring docks, water depth, and lot configuration that aren’t obvious from inside the home.

Main Lake or Bay?

Where you are on a lake can be just as important as the amount of shoreline you own.

Main-lake properties often provide expansive views and immediate access to open water. Bays may offer calmer water, greater protection from wind and waves, additional privacy, or less boat traffic.

Prior Lake is a great example. Upper Prior Lake, Lower Prior Lake, main-lake locations, and individual bays can each provide a different lifestyle. Some buyers want to be close to the action, while others prioritize quiet water and privacy.

There isn’t one universally better choice. It depends on how you plan to use the lake.

Think About Resale, Too

When comparing lake homes, pay particular attention to the things you can’t easily change.

A kitchen can be remodeled. Flooring can be replaced. Landscaping can be improved.

You can’t move the lakeshore lot.

Shoreline width, elevation, view, water depth, orientation, privacy, accessibility, and location on the lake can all influence future buyer demand.

A steep lot with an incredible panoramic view may be highly desirable. A level lot with sandy shoreline may appeal to another group of buyers. The important thing is recognizing which characteristics give a particular property lasting appeal.

So, What Makes a Great Lakeshore Lot?

For many Minnesota buyers, the ideal combination is wide, usable lakeshore; a level or gradual approach to the water; good water depth; a quality shoreline; privacy; and a beautiful lake view.

But the best lakeshore property is ultimately the one that fits how you want to live.

With decades of experience, Jim Slater and Slater Realty Group specialize in lakeshore and luxury real estate throughout Prior Lake, the South Metro, and greater Twin Cities area. Jim’s extensive experience on Prior Lake provides an especially deep understanding of how shoreline, lot characteristics, water access, and location can affect a lake property’s appeal.

Frequently Asked Questions

What direction is most desirable for lakeshore?
West-facing lakeshore is often sought after for sunset views, although the overall quality of the lake view can be more important than direction alone.

Is flat lakeshore more valuable?
Level and gradual lots are often highly desirable because of their usability and easy water access. However, elevated properties with exceptional views can also command significant buyer interest.

What should I look for when buying a lakeshore lot?
Consider shoreline quality and width, water depth, elevation, lake views, privacy, dock placement, lot shape, boating access, and the property’s location on the lake.