Buying a Vacation Home in New Hampshire — From Lakeside Cabins to Mountain Getaways
From the quiet shores of Lake Winnipesaukee to the snow-capped peaks of the White Mountains, New Hampshire offers a diverse range of vacation home opportunities that draw buyers from all over New England and beyond.
Whether you’re looking for a summer retreat, a weekend ski lodge, or a rental income property, owning a second home in New Hampshire can be both a personal joy and a long-term investment. At Lovlien Realty Group, we help vacation home buyers make informed, strategic decisions — without losing sight of the dream.
Here’s what you should know before diving in.
1. Why Buy a Vacation Home in New Hampshire?
New Hampshire is a four-season state — and that makes it ideal for vacation property ownership:
Lakes and boating in summer (Squam, Winnipesaukee, Newfound, and more)
Leaf peeping and hiking in fall
Skiing, snowmobiling, and cozy getaways in winter
Quiet retreats and mountain biking in spring
Plus, there’s no sales tax or state income tax on wages — making it a more affordable option compared to neighboring states like Massachusetts or Vermont.
Whether you want a low-key lake cottage, a slope-side condo, or a rustic log cabin, there’s something here for everyone.
2. How to Choose the Right Area
Your lifestyle and goals should drive where you buy. Here are a few standout vacation regions in New Hampshire:
Lakes Region – Ideal for boating, water sports, and summer rentals; think Meredith, Alton, and Gilford.
White Mountains – Great for skiing, hiking, and year-round adventure; check out Conway, Lincoln, and Bartlett.
Monadnock Region – Known for arts, charm, and rolling hills; Peterborough and Jaffrey are local favorites.
Seacoast – For beach lovers and short-term rentals, towns like Rye, Hampton, and Portsmouth shine.
At Lovlien Realty Group, we’ll help you explore areas that match your vision — whether you're after quiet seclusion or vibrant rental demand.
3. Financing a Vacation Home: What You Need to Know
Second homes are financed a bit differently than primary residences. Here's a surface-level overview — with a very important caveat:
📌 We are not mortgage brokers, and this article is not intended to provide financial advice. For specific financing questions, always consult a licensed mortgage professional. We're happy to connect you with experienced New Hampshire lenders who understand second home lending.
That said, here’s a general idea of what to expect:
Larger down payment – Typically 10–20% or more for second homes
Higher interest rates than on primary homes
Stricter underwriting – Lenders may review your debt-to-income ratio more closely
Rental income limitations – If you plan to rent it out, your loan may fall into the investment property category
A local lender can help determine if you're eligible for a second home mortgage or if an investment loan is the better fit.
4. Short-Term Rentals and Income Potential
Many buyers look to offset costs by renting their vacation home when they’re not using it — and in New Hampshire’s most popular areas, that can be a smart move.
Before buying, make sure to:
Check local ordinances — Some towns have short-term rental restrictions or require permits
Consider property management — Will you hire help or self-manage from afar?
Analyze the numbers — Seasonal rentals can be lucrative, but occupancy is rarely 100% year-round
We can help you evaluate the true income potential of a property and connect you with local rental managers and accountants who specialize in short-term property income.
5. Don’t Forget About Maintenance and Access
Owning a vacation home is rewarding — but it comes with ongoing responsibilities:
Winterizing and plowing in cold months
Security and caretaking if the home sits vacant
Water access, septic systems, or well maintenance in rural areas
Driveway and road maintenance (some are private or unpaved)
We’ll help you ask the right questions and plan for the logistics, not just the lifestyle.
Final Thoughts
A vacation home in New Hampshire is more than a getaway — it’s a place to make memories, escape the routine, and invest in a lifestyle that means something to you and your family.
Whether you're buying for personal enjoyment, rental income, or a little of both, Lovlien Realty Group is here to guide you every step of the way — from finding the perfect spot to coordinating inspections, contracts, and local resources.
📞 Let’s make your vacation home dream a reality. Reach out today for a consultation.
📍 Local insight. Honest guidance. Exceptional service across all of New Hampshire.
