Imagine a summer retreat where the journey to your front door is as enchanting as the destination itself. Located on the serene Locke’s Island in Lake Winnipesaukee, this furnished island home in Gilford, New Hampshire, is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. Priced at $889,500 this 1,037-square-foot cottage offers a unique blend of rustic charm and modern comfort, making it an ideal seasonal getaway or a potential short-term rental property.
The property, built in 1952 is accessible only by boat, adding to its secluded appeal. The 11,761-square-foot lot includes 150 feet of waterfront providing ample space for outdoor activities and relaxation. A fishhook-shaped breakwater creates a safe harbor for watercraft, and a two-boat-sized dock ensures easy access to the lake.
The Enchanting Layout and Design
Upon arrival, a walkway leads from the breakwater to a stairwell on the right side of the home, which opens to a 192-square-foot enclosed porch with tall windows offering panoramic lake views. The porch features exposed beams, a light fixture, and a teal-painted floor, creating a welcoming entryway. A door on the far right leads to a private deck with direct lakefront views and stair access to the water.
The interior of the home exudes a rustic charm with knotty pine flooring, exposed support beams, and unpainted wood cabinets. The open floor plan combines the living room and kitchen into one cohesive space. The living area features a stone-faced fireplace with a stove that runs on both propane and wood, flanked by tall windows and a ceiling fan. The kitchen is separated by a butcher block-topped peninsula with seating for two, and the flooring changes to ceramic tile.
Upstairs: A Cape-Style Retreat
Moving toward the rear of the home, a stairwell leads to the second floor, which resembles the layout of a New England Cape-style home. At the top of the stairs is a 229-square-foot family room flanked by the primary and a secondary bedroom. The floor is painted a pale white, while the ceiling and walls remain knotty pine. The room features a central fan, two large skylights, and built-in closets.
The 127-square-foot primary bedroom offers a design departure with walls and ceiling painted a calming pale blue. It includes its own skylight and a pair of windows looking out to the lake. The secondary bedroom, at 116 square feet, is a mirror image of the primary with a skylight and windows on one exterior wall, offering views of the tree lot.
Downstairs: Functional and Bright
Returning downstairs and turning left leads to a 71-square-foot rear entry hall with ceramic tile flooring. This area provides access to the final two rooms, including the home’s one bathroom. The bathroom features a shower-only setup with a glassed door, a single stand-alone vanity, and two linen cabinets. The flooring remains knotty pine, and a pair of casement windows on each exterior wall allow ample sunlight to flood the space.
Across the entryway is the third bedroom, which is 143 square feet with white walls, a painted floor, a knotty pine ceiling, and large windows on three walls. A full-size washer and dryer are stacked in the rear entryway hallway. The water is drawn from the lake and processed through a filtering system, while the septic system must be pumped every three to five years.
Potential and Regulations
This furnished island home presents a unique opportunity for those seeking a seasonal retreat or a potential short-term rental property. The current owners did not rent out their home, but the town of Gilford has specific short-term rental rules that should be reviewed by the next owner should they wish to rent it out. According to John B. Ayer, Gilford director of planning and land use, if the homeowner is in residence for more than nine weeks and rents it for less than nine weeks, they do not need to get a conditional use permit. However, if they rent it for more days than they occupy it, a conditional use permit is required.
With its stunning lake views, rustic charm, and potential for rental income, this furnished island home on Lake Winnipesaukee is a true gem. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat or an investment opportunity, this property offers a unique blend of natural beauty and modern comfort.
