Is Waterfront Property in New Hampshire a Good Investment?

Hunter Letendre
Jul 31
2 min read

New Hampshire waterfront property continues to attract buyers looking for natural beauty, recreational value, and long-term ROI. Whether you're investing in a serene lakeside retreat or a year-round home on Lake Winnipesaukee, buying waterfront real estate in NH can be a rewarding venture—both financially and personally.

Why Is New Hampshire Waterfront Property So Desirable?

New Hampshire’s scenic lakes and rivers offer year-round recreational appeal—boating, fishing, skiing, hiking, and foliage viewing. This makes waterfront property in NH highly sought-after for:

Second homes or vacation retreats
Short-term rental income (Airbnb/VRBO)
Long-term real estate appreciation
Retirement or relocation homes

Unlike many coastal states, NH’s property tax rates are relatively manageable, and there's no state income tax or sales tax—adding even more appeal to owning property in the Granite State.

Is Waterfront Real Estate in NH Appreciating in Value?

New Hampshire lakefront homes have shown consistent appreciation over the last decade, especially in areas like:

Lake Winnipesaukee
Squam Lake
Newfound Lake
Lake Sunapee

Thanks to limited waterfront inventory and rising buyer demand, values continue to trend upward. This makes NH waterfront property not just a lifestyle upgrade but also a solid investment with long-term returns.

What Are the Rental Income Opportunities?

Short-term rentals in prime NH waterfront areas can generate strong seasonal income. Many homeowners offset their mortgage by listing properties on platforms like Airbnb or VRBO. Key seasons include:

Summer: Boating and lake activities
Fall: Leaf-peeping and hiking
Winter: Snowmobiling, ice fishing, skiing nearby

Waterfront homes in tourist hotspots like Meredith or Wolfeboro can command premium nightly rates and maintain high occupancy during peak seasons.

Are There Risks or Downsides to Consider?

Like any investment, waterfront property comes with unique considerations:

Flood Insurance: May be required depending on the property’s elevation
Maintenance: Shoreline erosion, dock upkeep, and seasonal wear
Seasonality: Rental income may fluctuate by season
Higher upfront cost: Waterfront often comes at a premium

Still, with proper planning, these can be managed—and the lifestyle benefits often outweigh the downsides.

What’s the Best Way to Buy Waterfront Property in NH?

If you're ready to invest in New Hampshire waterfront property, follow these tips:

Work with a local real estate agent who specializes in lakefront homes
Visit in all seasons to understand weather and access issues
Check town regulations for zoning, dock use, or rental restrictions
Get a professional inspection to ensure the shoreline and home are in good shape
Consider future resale value—location matters more than home style

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth the Investment?

Yes—New Hampshire waterfront property remains a valuable investment in 2025. Whether for personal use, rental income, or long-term appreciation, it offers a unique blend of lifestyle perks and financial upside. Limited inventory, growing demand, and the natural appeal of NH’s lakes make this a market to watch—and act on—sooner rather than later.

Ready to explore waterfront homes in New Hampshire? Reach out today so I can help you start your property search today to make a smart and scenic investment that's right for you..