I am an experienced real estate broker that specializes in selling cottages on Lake of Bays and the Huntsville lakes.  Here are some things I think are important for you to consider when buying a cottage.

• Is the septic system in good working order?
• Is there a well? If the water is from the lake, is there a purification system?
• What is the heating system?
• Does it have a backup generator?
• Is there a deck or screened-in Muskoka Room room?
• Are there outbuildings - a bunkie, cabin, shed, garage, or boathouse?
• What is the waterfront?
• Is the shore road allowance owned?
• What amount of the waterfront can you develop
• Depth of water - does it fluctuate seasonally?
• The steepness of the slope, will you be able to manage it easily? Will the kids?
• Rocky bottom or sandy beach?
• What are you looking for in water sports - sailing, canoeing, boating, tubing?  The size of the lake will have a direct bearing on what you can do.
• Water access to other lakes and towns. Do you want to be able to boat into town for dinner/theatre?
• Is there a marina close by?
• Is there good internet access? If working from the cottage, this will be important
• Are there nearby health, ambulance, and fire department services?

Buying a cottage can be a very rewarding experience. It can also be complex and stressful –the more research one does, the more questions one has.  That's why using a knowledgeable, experienced local agent is important.