1. Motivated Sellers

The winter months tend to bring some misconceptions with the cold weather, one being that no one is at the lake anymore searching for their summer home. In reality, high volumes of sales are produced in the wintertime despite the fact less people are visiting the lake. Sellers, though, are still aware that traffic decreases so they are more inclined to favor offers brought in during the off-season when their house might not be shown as often.

2. Apparent Water Depth

Even with the most trustworthy of agents, sometimes you still need to see it to believe it. Water depth, that is. As Ameren lowers the water to make way for sea wall repairs and maintenance among other things, docks and boats are often times left resting on mud. It's hard to imagine and sometimes overlooked, but the water depth changes drastically in just a few months so it's important to know the potential of owning property in shallow waters. 

3. Transparency of Neighbor Proximity

As the leaves quickly change colors and fall to the ground, you are left with more than just the view of the main channel. What once might have been a super private lot with full branches protecting you from your neighbors, can rapidly change with the seasons. The Lake of the Ozarks is popularly known for its abundant shoreline. but when you're left without leaves creating a voluminous divide, it can begin to look a lot more crowded than ever before as you now have a clear and direct view of next door. 

4. Unconcealed Road Conditions

Sometimes the incredible views of the lake come at the price of some steep lake roads. Nice, warm weather doesn't typically pose any problematic driving conditions so it's easy to see past some precipitous gravel driveways. However, the climate in the winter can allow for a new representation of those same roads as rain and snow uncover some possible issues. 

5. Fewer Buyers 

While it is a myth that no one is buying their lake home in the winter, it is still true that the demand decreases. There's less competition to find an agent or schedule a showing when the lake is less saturated with vacationers perusing the market without the intention to buy. This is the perfect time to look because you don't need to sacrifice family time on the water to go search for the perfect home.