Bought a Lake House? Here’s What You Should Renovate Before Moving In

Why Renovate Before Moving Into Your Lake Home?

Owning a lake house is a dream come true for many. The idea of quiet mornings by the water and summer evenings on the dock is incredibly appealing. However, before you unpack a single box, there’s one important question to ask: what to remodel in lake home before move in? Renovating before you settle in not only increases your comfort and safety—it also protects your investment and makes it truly your own. Plus, some changes are easier and less expensive to tackle before the home is fully occupied. Making the right updates ahead of time can save you from major headaches down the road and lets you fully enjoy lake life sooner.

Start With Safety and Structure

Inspect the Roof and Siding

The roof and siding are your first defense against the elements. Older lake homes can have worn-out shingles or damaged siding that may let moisture creep in, leading to mold or structural damage. Elite Improvements, based in Burlington, Wisconsin, offers professional roofing and siding replacement. Having these elements professionally inspected and replaced before move-in ensures your home is protected from wind, rain, and Wisconsin winters. Elite Improvements uses high-quality materials that perform well in waterfront environments, offering peace of mind through every season.

Update Electrical and Plumbing Systems

Many lake homes are older and may have outdated wiring or plumbing. That can be both a safety hazard and an inconvenience. Before settling in, have a licensed professional inspect the systems. Often, it’s wise to replace old pipes with modern materials that won’t corrode and upgrade electrical panels to handle today’s appliances and electronics safely. This step will give you peace of mind while preventing costly future repairs. Elite Improvements can coordinate with trusted plumbing and electrical contractors to ensure all updates meet code standards and are energy-efficient.

Ensure the Home’s Foundation Is Solid

Particularly in properties near water, a strong foundation is critical. Moisture can weaken structural supports over time. Have a thorough structural inspection done and consider waterproofing the basement if needed. Elite Improvements can assist with basement remodeling, and they’ll make sure your space stays dry, safe, and usable all year round. Reinforcing foundations, fixing cracks, and improving drainage systems offer lasting protection—crucial for lakeside homes.

Renovate for Comfort and Functionality

Modernize the Kitchen

The kitchen is the heart of any home—including a lake house. You’ll likely spend time here cooking for family and friends after a long day of boating or fishing. If the layout is awkward or the cabinets and countertops are outdated, now is the time to change it. A full remodel might include:

– New cabinetry that maximizes storage and looks stylish

– Updated countertops made from durable materials like quartz or granite

– Modern appliances that fit your cooking needs

– Updated flooring that can withstand moisture and heavy foot traffic

Elite Improvements specializes in high-quality kitchen remodeling, helping lake homeowners create spaces that are both beautiful and functional. Custom layouts and specialty fixtures can truly make your kitchen shine while accommodating your specific needs and design preferences. Whether you’re hosting summer barbecues or winter gatherings, an updated kitchen becomes the ultimate gathering space.

Refresh the Bathrooms

Bathrooms are another key area where renovations can make a huge impact. Especially in older lake homes, fixtures may be outdated or inefficient. Consider making the following upgrades:

– Install low-flow toilets and faucets to reduce water usage

– Update lighting fixtures for better brightness and ambiance

– Replace cracked tiles or worn flooring with slip-resistant options

– Expand cramped spaces for more comfort and ease of use

With options for bathroom remodels as well as additions, Elite Improvements can help transform cramped or moldy spaces into sparkling, spa-like retreats. Their design team works closely with homeowners to select materials and layouts suited to lake home living—durable, stylish, and easy to maintain. The result is a bathroom that feels modern, luxurious, and practical for year-round enjoyment.

Create a Cozy Living Area

Whether the goal is year-round living or just seasonal use, your main living space should feel welcoming and functional. Consider how you’ll host guests, relax with your family, or enjoy views of the lake. Elite Improvements can make layout changes, update flooring, and install new lighting to help the space live up to your vision. Built-in shelves, media centers, and even fireplaces are great additions for both functionality and charm. If there are large windows facing the water, make sure they’re energy-efficient and offer unobstructed views, adding to the peaceful lake experience.

Plan for Practical Additions

Add a Mudroom or Entryway

Lake life means wet swimsuits, muddy boots, and plenty of gear like fishing rods and life jackets. Creating a functional mudroom or entryway can help keep your main living areas clean and clutter-free. A small remodel might include:

– Custom-brushed flooring that’s easy to clean

– Hooks, benches, and cubbies for storing outdoor items

– Waterproof finishes that stand up to lake debris

Elite Improvements offers custom home addition services, and adding a mudroom might be one of the smartest decisions you make for daily convenience. An entryway designed for lake life keeps your home organized and ready for fun, no matter the season.

Build a Sunroom or Screen Porch

One of the major joys of lake house living is enjoying beautiful views and gentle breezes without having to deal with bugs or bad weather. A sunroom or screened porch lets you enjoy the outdoors in comfort. Think about where you can build one and how it can enhance your lifestyle. Options include:

– A cozy reading nook with lake views

– Dining space for family meals with screens to keep pests out

– A quiet room filled with natural light for yoga or morning coffee

Elite Improvements has extensive experience with custom room additions and can help you choose the right materials and layout to match your existing home. Thoughtfully designed, these spaces enhance daily living and make your home even more inviting for guests and family.

Create an Office or Hobby Room

If your lake home will be more than a vacation spot, you might need functional spaces for work or hobbies. A thoughtfully designed home office, art studio, or workout space adds to the practicality of your home and increases its resale value significantly. Adding these rooms before move-in means you won’t have to disrupt your life later with construction and design planning. Elite Improvements can customize any space to support your goals—whether you’re working remotely or diving into a new craft by the lake.

Maximize Exterior Appeal and Use

Install a Custom Deck

To really enjoy lake living, you need quality outdoor space. Adding a custom deck or restoring an old one should be on top of your list of what to remodel in lake home before move in. A well-built deck can:

– Serve as the perfect place for grilling and entertaining

– Offer a scenic view of the lake

– Add significant value to the property

Elite Improvements specializes in custom deck installation, using materials that can stand up to Wisconsin weather while enhancing your home’s curb appeal. From wrap-around decks to multi-level designs, they can bring your vision to life with quality craftsmanship and attention to detail. A lake home isn’t complete without a great deck for sunsets, stargazing, or morning coffee.

Upgrade Landscaping and Outdoor Lighting

A beautiful yard and outdoor area make your lake house feel finished and inviting. Tackle landscaping projects early, including planting, leveling terrain, or adding gravel paths. Also, improve or add outdoor lighting for both ambiance and security. Path lights, spotlights, and solar-powered options are popular choices for lake properties. Elite Improvements can help design hardscaping features like patios, walkways, and retaining walls that blend seamlessly with natural scenery while improving usability and aesthetics.

Why Work With Local Experts Like Elite Improvements?

Elite Improvements is a family-owned home remodeling company located in Burlington, Wisconsin. They serve southeast Wisconsin communities with a strong commitment to quality craftsmanship and customer satisfaction. Whether it’s a full kitchen remodel, a new sunroom, or exterior improvements, they pride themselves on turning houses into dream homes. Their team is experienced in lake house projects and understands the unique challenges of moisture, layout, and seasonal use. That local expertise makes a huge difference when remodeling your waterfront property.

Accredited by both the Better Business Bureau and Milwaukee NARI, Elite Improvements follows ethical business practices and works closely with homeowners to deliver outstanding results. With years of experience across kitchens, bathrooms, remodels, additions, and decks, they’re the perfect partner for anyone wondering what to remodel in lake home before move in. Their responsive customer service, flexible scheduling, and talented crews mean your renovation stays on track and exceeds expectations.

To learn more or schedule a consultation, visit eliteimproves.com or call 262-716-6663 today. Start transforming your house into the lake home you’ve always wanted

Final Thoughts

Buying a lake house is a major investment—and a unique opportunity to create a peaceful, personalized retreat. But before you move in, taking the time to address structural needs, refresh outdated spaces, and add practical additions will pay off for years to come. Whether your home needs a full kitchen renovation, a new roof, or a cozy new sunroom, tackling key updates in advance ensures your new lake house life starts with comfort, style, and safety. Thoughtful renovations help you make the most of your home from day one and avoid disruptions later.

If you’re unsure where to begin or simply want expert guidance, reach out to Elite Improvements. Their team of Wisconsin remodeling professionals will help you renovate with confidence and care—so you can start living the lake life you’ve dreamed of. With their tailored solutions and proven experience, you can trust Elite Improvements to guide you through every phase of remodeling your ideal lakefront home.