Tag: Lakefront

From Visitor to Resident: Making Tahoe Your Full-Time Home

Posted on by Liza Muhl

What Would Life in Tahoe Look Like

For many buyers, Tahoe starts as a getaway—weekends by the lake, holidays in the snow, and summers filled with trail time. But for some, those visits spark a bigger question: What would life here look like full-time? If you’re considering making Tahoe your primary residence, here’s what to know as you move from visitor to local.

The Lifestyle Shift

Living in Tahoe full-time brings a different rhythm than vacation living. What once felt like a retreat becomes your everyday backdrop.

  • Slower mornings and quieter weekdays

  • A deeper connection to the seasons

  • More time outdoors—and less time commuting

Community Becomes Key

As a resident, Tahoe feels less like a destination and more like a hometown. Full-time living brings a depth of community that visitors don’t always see.

  • Local events, markets, and community gatherings

  • Building relationships with neighbors and local businesses

  • A strong sense of connection through shared outdoor lifestyles

Housing Needs Shift

Full-time living often requires rethinking space and functionality. Homes designed for year-round use make the transition smoother and more comfortable.

  • Reliable heating and insulation

  • Storage for all-season gear

  • Dedicated workspaces

  • Easy winter access

Seasonality Becomes Second Nature

Living in Tahoe means embracing all four seasons. What may feel like a challenge at first often becomes part of the charm. You’ll quickly learn:

  • Winter prep and snow routines

  • Shoulder seasons for quiet enjoyment

  • How each season shapes daily life

Planning for the Long Term

Full-time buyers often think differently about value. Choosing the right neighborhood and home now helps support future goals. Key considerations:

  • School districts and community resources

  • Proximity to town centers and services

  • Long-term resale and flexibility

Thinking about turning your Tahoe escape into a full-time lifestyle? Contact us to explore neighborhoods and homes designed for year-round living.

— Amie with The Q Group

📞 Mobile 650.290.3008
📧 Email me at amie@realestatenorthtahoe.com
🌐 Visit Amie Quirarte with The Q Group to learn more

The Tahoe Neighborhood That Fits You Best

Posted on by Liza Muhl

Which Tahoe Neighborhood is Right for You

Dock with lake, mountains, and sunset in the background

Choosing the right Tahoe neighborhood is just as important as choosing the right home. Each area around the lake offers its own rhythm, scenery, and lifestyle. If you’re ready for your next move, here’s a breakdown to help you find the Tahoe neighborhood that truly fits you.

West Shore: Relaxed, Scenic, and Timeless

Often described as “the quieter side of the lake,” West Shore is ideal for buyers who value privacy, natural beauty, and a slower pace.

Best for:

  • Nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts

  • Buyers seeking a peaceful retreat

  • Classic Tahoe charm with lake and forest access

Lifestyle notes:

  • Stunning sunsets and less congestion

  • Close-knit community feel

  • Easy access to hiking, biking, and beaches

Tahoe City: Central, Connected, and Convenient

Tahoe City blends walkability, dining, and easy access to both North and West Shores.

Best for:

  • Full-time residents

  • Buyers who want town amenities nearby

  • Those who enjoy an active social scene

Lifestyle notes:

  • Local shops, restaurants, and events

  • Proximity to trails, lake access, and ski resorts

  • Strong year-round energy

North Shore: Active, Social, and Resort-Driven

North Shore offers a mix of laid-back lake life and easy access to world-class skiing and recreation.

Best for:

  • Buyers who want proximity to resorts

  • Second-home owners who enjoy variety

  • Adventure-driven lifestyles

Lifestyle notes:

  • Close to Northstar and lake beaches

  • Lively dining and après-ski scene

  • Great for seasonal and part-time living

Incline Village: Refined, Exclusive, and Amenity-Rich

Incline Village is known for its private beaches, well-maintained neighborhoods, and upscale feel.

Best for:

  • Buyers seeking luxury and privacy

  • Amenity-focused lifestyles

  • Full-time or second-home living

Lifestyle notes:

  • Access to private beaches and recreation facilities

  • Golf, skiing, and fitness amenities

  • Strong sense of community

Truckee: Year-Round Living with Mountain Energy

Just north of the lake, Truckee offers a vibrant, full-time community with historic charm and modern convenience.

Best for:

  • Families and full-time residents

  • Buyers wanting schools, dining, and events

  • Those seeking a true mountain-town feel

Lifestyle notes:

  • Strong local culture and events

  • Proximity to multiple ski resorts

  • Lively downtown with year-round appeal

How to Choose What Fits You Best

  • Will this be a full-time or seasonal home?

  • Do I value walkability or privacy?

  • Is lake access or resort proximity more important?

  • How much community activity do I want?

The right neighborhood should support not just how you live not, but how you want to live moving forward.

Not sure which Tahoe neighborhood fits your lifestyle? Our Tahoe area guide is designed to help you learn about Tahoe’s micro-regions and which area may best suit your needs in your search for your Tahoe dream home. Click here to explore the communities in the Lake Tahoe area, or connect with Amie Quirarte and The Q Group for a personalized neighborhood match and local insight.

— Amie with The Q Group

📞 Mobile 650.290.3008
📧 Email me at amie@realestatenorthtahoe.com
🌐 Visit Amie Quirarte with The Q Group to learn more

2025 Wrapped: Thank You for an Incredible Year from The Q Group

Posted on by Liza Muhl

A Look Back at 2025 in Lake Tahoe Real Estate

There are never enough words to appropriately express the gratitude we feel towards our clients, all of whom trust us with some of the most important decisions of their lives. It is an honor to work alongside you, and to have earned your trust along the way. It is not something we take lightly! Thank you for being part of my journey.

Amie’s Lakefront Activity this Year 

We were proud to close on two exceptional lakefront properties at or above $10 million.

  • 3334 Edgewater Drive, Tahoe City, CA — Represented Buyer

  • 9910 Lake Street, Kings Beach, CA — Represented Seller (sold off-market)

This year also brought an incredible collection of lakefront listings that we are honored to represent and have actively listed, varying from a new construction estate on the West Shore to North Shore legacy residences.

  • 255 Drum Road, Tahoma, CA — Offered at $22,000,000

  • 9902 Lake Street, Kings Beach, CA — Offered at $13,500,000

  • 7708 North Lake Boulevard, Tahoe Vista, CA — Offered at $4,700,000

Explore All Current Listings Here

$49M in Sales Volume for the Year

Relationships are the foundation of our business, and we’re honored by the confidence our clients place in us year after year. In 2025, we closed 16 sales, helping 12 new families and working again with 4 repeat clients. Together, these sales totaled just under $49 million for the year.

Who You Work with Matters

As we head into 2026, the Tahoe market continues to shift and open up new opportunities for both buyers and sellers. When you choose to work with us, you’re partnering with real estate professionals who deliver extraordinary results. Whether you’re planning a purchase, considering a sale, or simply looking for insight into the market, we’re here as a trusted resource every step of the way.

Cheers and Happy New Year!

— Amie with The Q Group

📞 Mobile 650.290.3008
📧 Email me at amie@realestatenorthtahoe.com
🌐 Visit Amie Quirarte with The Q Group to learn more

How to Right-Size Your Home in Tahoe

Posted on by Liza Muhl

What Right-Size Truly Means to You

Right-sizing isn’t just about square footage—it’s about finding a home that fits the way you actually live. In Tahoe, where lifestyle and seasonality play a major role, choosing the right size home can enhance both comfort and long-term value.

Whether you’re upsizing, downsizing, or transitioning from part-time to full-time living, here’s how to determine what “right-size” truly means for you.

What Right-Sizing Really Means

Right-sizing is about balance:

  • Enough space to live comfortably

  • Minimal wasted square footage

  • A layout that supports your daily routine

In Tahoe, that often means prioritizing storage for gear, flexible guest space, and ease of maintenance—especially during winter months.

Signs It Might Be Time to Upsize

You may want more space if:

  • Family or friends visit often

  • You need a dedicated home office

  • Outdoor gear has taken over every corner

  • You’re transitioning to full-time Tahoe living

Larger homes or townhomes with multiple levels allow for privacy while still supporting entertaining and multi-generational stays.

Signs It Might Be Time to Downsize

Downsizing can feel freeing—especially in a mountain market.

You may be ready to scale back if:

  • Maintenance feels overwhelming

  • You want a lock-and-leave lifestyle

  • You’re spending less time hosting guests

  • You prefer amenities over upkeep

Condos and smaller homes often provide easy living while keeping you close to trails, beaches, and town centers.

Condo, Cabin, or Luxury Retreat?

Tahoe offers a wide range of right-size options:

Condos & Townhomes

  • Low maintenance

  • HOA services like snow removal

  • Ideal for second-home owners

Cabins & Single-Family Homes

  • More privacy and storage

  • Outdoor space for gear and gatherings

  • A classic Tahoe feel

Luxury Homes

  • Designed for entertaining

  • Multiple living zones

  • Space for hosting family and friends year-round

The key is aligning the home type with how often—and how intensively—you’ll use the space.

Seasonality Matters

Ask yourself:

  • Will this be a full-time or seasonal home?

  • How much winter maintenance am I comfortable managing?

  • Do I want turnkey convenience or hands-on ownership?

Your answers help narrow the ideal size and style for your next move.

The Long-Term View

Right-sizing isn’t just about today—it’s about tomorrow. The right Tahoe home should support:

  • Your current lifestyle

  • Future flexibility

  • Long-term resale appeal

Choosing wisely now often leads to greater enjoyment and less stress down the road.

Quick Right-Sizing Checklist

  • How many bedrooms do you realistically use?

  • Do you need guest space or flex rooms?

  • How much maintenance feels comfortable?

  • Do you prefer amenities or privacy?

  • Will this home support your lifestyle in 5–10 years?

Thinking about your next move but unsure what size or style fits best? Connect with Amie Quirarte and The Q Group for guidance tailored to your lifestyle, goals, and preferred Tahoe neighborhoods.

— Amie with The Q Group

📞 Mobile 650.290.3008
📧 Email me at amie@realestatenorthtahoe.com
🌐 Visit Amie Quirarte with The Q Group to learn more

Cost Considerations When Moving to Tahoe

Posted on by Liza Muhl

What Moving to Tahoe Really Costs

The Tahoe lifestyle is undeniably appealing—lake views, mountain trails, four-season recreation, and a slower pace of life. But before making your next move, it’s important to understand the full picture of what Tahoe homeownership truly costs. Beyond the purchase price, here’s what buyers should plan for when budgeting for life in the mountains.

Utilities & Seasonal Energy Use

Tahoe homes experience more dramatic seasonal swings than many other markets.

What to expect:

  • Higher heating costs during winter months

  • Variable utility bills depending on elevation, insulation, and home size

  • Backup power solutions or generators for certain areas

Energy-efficient upgrades, newer windows, and proper insulation can make a noticeable difference in long-term costs.

Snow Removal & Winter Access

Winter is part of Tahoe’s charm—but it also requires planning.

Typical snow-related expenses include:

  • Driveway and roof snow removal

  • Private road plowing or shared services

  • Ice management and winter safety measures

For second-home owners, reliable snow removal is essential to protect both your property and accessibility.

HOA Fees & Community Amenities

Many Tahoe condos, townhomes, and planned communities include HOA fees.

These often cover:

  • Exterior maintenance

  • Snow removal

  • Landscaping

  • Amenities such as pools, gyms, or private beach access

While HOAs add a monthly cost, they can significantly reduce hands-on maintenance—especially appealing for part-time residents.

Insurance in a Mountain Environment

Insurance costs in Tahoe can differ from urban or suburban markets.

Considerations may include:

  • Snow load and weather-related coverage

  • Fire insurance depending on location

  • Additional policies for second homes or rentals

Working with professionals familiar with mountain properties can help you secure appropriate coverage without surprises.

Maintenance & Ongoing Care

Tahoe homes require consistent upkeep due to weather and seasonal shifts.

Common maintenance items:

  • Roof inspections and repairs

  • Deck and exterior sealing

  • Gutter and drainage care

  • Annual inspections for heating systems

Planning ahead for these costs helps protect your investment and preserves long-term value.

Rental Rules & Usage Considerations

If you’re considering rental income, understanding local regulations is essential.

Important factors:

  • Short-term rental rules vary by area

  • Permit requirements and occupancy limits

  • Long-term rental opportunities in certain communities

Even if renting isn’t your immediate goal, knowing the options adds flexibility for the future.

The Big Picture: Value Beyond the Numbers

While Tahoe homeownership includes unique costs, many buyers find the lifestyle return well worth the investment. Ownership often replaces recurring vacation expenses with long-term equity, consistent access to the mountains, and a home that supports the life you want to live.

Quick Cost Checklist

  • Utilities and seasonal energy use

  • Snow removal and winter services

  • HOA fees (if applicable)

  • Insurance tailored to mountain living

  • Ongoing maintenance and upkeep

  • Rental compliance and flexibility

Thinking about your next move? Let’s break down what Tahoe ownership would look like for you. Connect with Amie Quirarte and The Q Group for a customized ownership estimate and guidance tailored to your lifestyle, goals, and preferred neighborhoods.

— Amie with The Q Group

📞 Mobile 650.290.3008
📧 Email me at amie@realestatenorthtahoe.com
🌐 Visit Amie Quirarte with The Q Group to learn more

5 Signs It’s Time to Buy in Tahoe

Posted on by Liza Muhl

Are You Ready for Your Next Move to Tahoe?

Buying in Tahoe isn’t just about finding a home—it’s about choosing the lifestyle that comes with it: lake mornings, mountain air, quiet trails, and a community built around outdoor living. If you’ve been wondering whether it’s the right time to take the next step, here are five signs that point toward “yes.”

1. You’re Spending More Time in Tahoe Than Anywhere Else

Maybe you’re here every weekend. Maybe you’ve stretched “just a few days” into longer stays. When Tahoe becomes the place you unwind, recharge, and feel most at home, it’s worth considering a more permanent connection.

Local Insight: Many buyers start as weekend visitors before realizing they spend most holidays and long weekends here — making ownership more practical than ongoing rentals.

2. Remote or Flexible Work Has Opened New Possibilities

If you can work from anywhere, why not work from somewhere inspiring? Tahoe offers a quiet pace, access to nature, and enough connectivity to support remote professionals.

Hint: Homes with dedicated office space, expanded Wi-Fi options, and access to cafés/co-working hubs in Tahoe City and Truckee are especially in demand.

3. You Want a Home That Doubles as an Investment

From long-term rentals to seasonal use by family and friends, Tahoe real estate tends to hold value because demand remains steady year-round.

Consider: Even if you don’t plan to rent, owning gives you the opportunity to build equity instead of paying vacation rental fees.

4. Your Lifestyle Has Outgrown Your Current Space

Maybe you want more room for outdoor gear, space for family to visit, or a quieter environment than city living can offer. Tahoe’s mix of condos, townhomes, and lakefront estates makes it easy to match a home to your lifestyle.

Popular choices:

  • Low-maintenance condos for second-home owners

  • Family-friendly neighborhoods near trails

  • Larger homes with space to host friends or multi-generational stays

5. You’re Looking for a Lifestyle Upgrade Grounded in Nature

If you crave cleaner air, slower mornings, or year-round recreation right outside your door, Tahoe checks every box.

From skiing and paddleboarding to hiking and après-lake evenings, Tahoe living is more than a purchase—it’s a shift in lifestyle that many clients say they wish they’d made sooner.

Highlights:

  • Why now may be the ideal time to invest in Tahoe real estate

  • Signs you’re ready to transition from visitor to homeowner

  • Lifestyle benefits unique to Tahoe living

  • Remote-work advantages for Tahoe buyers

  • Equity-building and long-term value considerations

Ready to explore the right neighborhood or property for your next move? Connect with Amie Quirarte and The Q Group for tailored guidance, local insight, and a smooth path to Tahoe homeownership.

— Amie with The Q Group

📞 Mobile 650.290.3008
📧 Email me at amie@realestatenorthtahoe.com
🌐 Visit Amie Quirarte with The Q Group to learn more

Q3 2025 Market Update: North & West Shore Outlook

Posted on by Liza Muhl

Steady Demand, Rising Values, and a Confident Winter Outlook

As we move into the fourth quarter of 2025, the Lake Tahoe real estate market continues to reflect thoughtful buyer decisions and strategic purchases. Both sales volume and median prices are up from last year, driven by steady demand and the limited availability of Tahoe’s most sought-after homes. Although the average days on market have risen by 52% year over year—showing a more deliberate pace among buyers—well-presented and well-priced properties are still drawing strong interest.

Compared to pre-pandemic levels, the market remains on solid ground. Since 2019, the average sale price has more than doubled, and the median price has climbed nearly 70%, showing lasting appreciation rather than a short-term spike. Even with sales activity similar to 2019, today’s higher price points highlight a long-term shift in market values.

Throughout the third quarter, the market showed confidence and consistency. Buyers stayed active but selective, favoring move-in-ready homes in prime locations with standout design and outdoor spaces. Looking ahead to winter, the outlook remains positive—supported by Tahoe’s enduring appeal and reputation as one of the most desirable mountain destinations on the west coast.

Our home selling strategies include a unique storytelling approach, combined with heavy digital and print media components, and connections that reach our primary feeder markets, as well as across the globe. If you are interested in learning more about what the value of your home may be, we’d love to talk with you in an honest, no pressure way.

— Amie with The Q Group

Connect with Amie at amie@realestatenorthtahoe.com or visit realestatenorthtahoe.com to explore more.

Fall in Tahoe: How to Prepare for Cooler Weather Ahead

Posted on by Liza Muhl

Fall in Lake Tahoe Signals a Change in Season

As the air turns crisp and the aspens shift to gold, fall in Lake Tahoe signals a beautiful change—and a perfect reminder to prepare your home for the cooler months ahead. Whether you’re a year-round resident or a part-time homeowner, a little early-season prep can help your property stay comfortable and protected all winter long.

Here’s how to get your Tahoe home ready for the season:

1. Service Your Heating System

Before the temperatures drop, schedule an HVAC or furnace inspection to ensure everything is running efficiently. Change air filters, test thermostats, and consider a smart thermostat for better energy management—especially if you split time between homes.

If you have a gas fireplace, now’s the time to have it cleaned and tested so it’s ready for cozy evenings by the fire.

2. Inspect Roofs, Gutters, and Chimneys

Fall is the ideal time to clear leaves and pine needles from gutters to prevent ice dams later. Check the roof for missing shingles or debris, and inspect your chimney or wood stove flue for buildup before you light that first fire of the season.

Tahoe’s early snow can surprise even locals—don’t wait until the first storm!

3. Prepare Outdoor Spaces

Bring in patio cushions, cover or store outdoor furniture, and drain irrigation systems to avoid frozen lines. It’s also a great time to trim trees near power lines and inspect decks for wear.

If you have a hot tub, check that it’s insulated and ready for use—there’s nothing better than a soak on a cool Tahoe night.

4. Create a Cozy Interior

As days grow shorter, make your space a warm retreat. Swap light summer linens for plush throws, add layered textures, and introduce warm-toned lighting. Natural elements like wood, leather, and wool fit perfectly with Tahoe’s mountain-modern aesthetic.

These touches not only enhance comfort but can elevate your home’s appeal if you’re considering listing this winter.

5. Prepare for Snow Season

Keep your snowblower or shovels accessible and check them now rather than mid-storm. Stock up on ice melt and make sure your driveway markers are visible for plowing.

If your property is a second home, consider a local caretaker or smart monitoring system to ensure pipes, heat, and access are maintained through the winter months.

Click here to download Fall Home Prep Checklist_Amie Quirarate_The Q Group

Why We Love Tahoe in Fall

Fall is one of our favorite times in Tahoe. The pace slows, the lake sparkles under a quieter sky, and it’s the perfect moment to prepare your home so you can truly relax and enjoy the season ahead.

Thinking of Selling This Fall?

Proper seasonal maintenance not only protects your home—it adds to your property’s value and buyer appeal. If you’re considering selling before winter or planning ahead for spring, now is the time to strategize. Let’s talk about your Tahoe home’s market potential this season.  Connect with Amie at amie@realestatenorthtahoe.com or visit realestatenorthtahoe.com to explore more.

— Amie with The Q Group

Your Tahoe Real Estate Expert: Featured in the San Francisco Chronicle

Posted on by Liza Muhl

Amie Quirarte Featured as Cover Story in the San Francisco Chronicle Real Estate Section

Amie Quirarte at a Woman-Up conference

We are excited to share that Amie was recently featured as the cover story in the San Francisco Chronicle’s Real Estate section. Read full article: San Francisco Chronicle Cover Story_Amie Quirarte

A Proven Record in Luxury Real Estate

With over 15 years of experience living full-time in Tahoe, Amie has developed a client-first approach built on reliability, trust, and transparency. Her portfolio includes a long list of successful high-end sales ranging from $10 million to $22 million, positioning her among the top agents in the region. Licensed in both California and Nevada, Amie provides buyers and sellers with a competitive edge in today’s dynamic real estate market.

Local Expertise, Global Reach

What sets Amie apart is her hyper-local knowledge of the Tahoe market. From Incline Village to Homewood, she understands the nuances of each neighborhood. Amie ensures every client has the information they need to make informed decisions.

Concierge-Level Service

Amie and her team provide a concierge-style service that goes far beyond the typical real estate transaction. From coordinating inspections and repairs to overseeing staging, photography, videography, and marketing, she anticipates her clients’ needs at every step. This seamless process allows buyers and sellers to focus on their goals while Amie handles the details.

Interested in buying or selling a home in Lake Tahoe? Connect with Amie Quirarte for expert guidance and exceptional results.

 

Lake Tahoe Lakefront Homes: Rare, Coveted, and In Demand

Posted on by Liza Muhl

Why Tahoe Lakefront Homes Are So Exclusive

Lakefront at 7708 N Lake Blvd, Tahoe Vista

Lake Tahoe lakefront homes are some of the most sought-after properties in the world. With only a limited number of homes directly on the shoreline, each one represents a rare opportunity to experience world-class luxury living in one of the most breathtaking destinations on earth.

The supply of lakefront homes in Lake Tahoe is extremely limited. With fewer than 60 properties currently available across the entire basin, the market remains one of the most exclusive in the country. Strict environmental oversight, state and county regulations, and the scarcity of developable lakefront land ensure that demand consistently outweighs supply.

This unique dynamic makes lakefront real estate in Tahoe a true legacy investment—not just a home, but a lifestyle to pass on for generations.

What Makes Lakefront Living So Special

Owning a Lake Tahoe lakefront home means more than just a prime location. It’s about:

  • Unparalleled Views – Panoramic lake and mountain scenery, every season of the year.

  • Private Shoreline Access – From sandy beaches to deep-water piers.

  • World-Class Recreation – Boating, paddleboarding, hiking, and skiing, all at your doorstep.

  • Timeless Value – A piece of Tahoe’s shoreline is one of the rarest assets in real estate.

Featured Lakefront Listings

We’re proud to represent some of the most exceptional lakefront homes currently available:

1. 255 Drum Road, Tahoma (West Shore)

  • 4 Bedrooms | 5.5 Bathrooms | 4,095 SF

  • Offered at $22,000,000
    A brand-new West Shore estate designed for luxury living on Tahoe’s most storied shoreline.

2. 7708 North Lake Blvd, Tahoe Vista (North Shore)

  • 3 Bedrooms | 2 Bathrooms | 1,304 SF

  • Offered at $4,895,000
    A charming North Shore lakefront retreat with direct water access and classic Tahoe character.

The Market Outlook

High-profile sales continue to set records around the lake, underscoring the strength of the Tahoe luxury real estate market. Buyers are drawn not only by the region’s beauty but also by its reputation as a safe, long-term investment.

With such limited supply and strong demand, Lake Tahoe lakefront properties remain one of the most valuable segments of luxury real estate.

Explore Tahoe Lakefront Homes

If you’ve dreamed of owning a piece of Lake Tahoe’s shoreline, now is the time to explore your options. From grand West Shore estates to charming North Shore retreats.

Connect with Amie Quirarte for expert guidance, local insight, and access to the most coveted lakefront properties in Lake Tahoe.

🔗 Click here or DM me anytime.

— Amie with The Q Group