As the highest point in all of Cerro Gordo County, Clear Lake offers the near-perfect conditions for sailing thanks to an abundance of wind on the water. So it's little wonder that the lake is home to the Clear Lake Yacht Club and that avid sailors make their way to the lake throughout the year.
When it comes to a picturesque locale, few cities have it as easy as Clear Lake, IA
As the highest point in all of Cerro Gordo County, Clear Lake offers the near-perfect conditions for sailing thanks to an abundance of wind on the water. So it's little wonder that the lake is home to the Clear Lake Yacht Club and that avid sailors make their way to the lake throughout the year.
When it comes to a picturesque locale, few cities have it as easy as Clear Lake, IA. Situated on the banks of the 3,684-acre lake that makes up the town's namesake in Cerro Gordo County, the city of Clear Lake offers rare lakefront views that are usually found only in larger cities. With a population of roughly 7,777, the city still offers that friendly small-town vibe without sacrificing anything in the way of conveniences. Lakefront properties are de rigueur in the city as the lake turns into a sailor's paradise each year, along with countless opportunities for fishing, camping and other recreation.
Love the Great Outdoors? Chances are you'll fall in love with Clear Lake from the moment you arrive. Aside from the swimming, fishing, boating and sailing activities the lake has to offer, there's also an abundance of nearby recreation for those who don't want to get themselves wet. In addition to the three nearby golf courses, there are also hiking trails, hunting grounds and biking trails for those who relish the great outdoors.
Starting the Hunt
Ok, so it might appear that there are houses as far as the eye can see, but the number of rental units available is a bit sparse. After all, just 6.8 percent of the detached units available in the city are renter-occupied. This makes finding a rental unit a bit of a challenge, but it's not completely out of the question. If you're looking to rent a place out on the lake, you'll have to let your fingers do the walking (or clicking in this day and age of the mighty Internet) to hunt down a house or a condo for rent with an apartment locator.
As always, it's important to know what you want out from rental apts before you set about your search. If you're simply looking for one-bedroom or two-bedroom apartments, you want your choice to be spacious enough to accommodate both yourself and anyone else you're likely to bring along during your move.
Move-in Condition
Whenever you move into a new apartment, it's always a good idea to document its current condition before moving anything inside. This way, you can not only let your landlord know about any preexisting damage or deficiencies beforehand, but you'll also be covered in case the landlord assumes that you're responsible. Grab a digital camera and an apartment checklist and go through each room. Take as many photos as you can of the apartment's overall shape as well as anything of interest and don't forget to write down any potential problems you've encountered. Keep copies for your own records and, if possible, submit the photos and checklist within the first week of moving in.
Given Clear Lake's relatively small size, it isn't divided up into neighborhoods like most cities. Nevertheless, there are plenty of spots that are definitely of interest for anyone searching for apartment rentals. Living close to the downtown area gives you access to the historic district and a wide variety of shops, eateries and attractions, while a lakefront property gives you unfettered access to the water as well as a rather stunning view of the lake itself. There are also a number of apartment complexes clustered near the city center and various properties for rent just a few minutes' drive from the lake.
Clear Lake is a small city that packs a surprisingly big punch in terms of activities and remarkable sights. The historic downtown area features a surprising level of walkability, but don't toss those car keys away just yet - you'll need them if you want to get around lakeside or if you're headed into neighboring Mason City. Attractions like the Clear Lake Arts Center and various fine dining places like the District 619 Steakhouse are just a short walk away. After spending the day out on the water, you can dance the evening away at the renowned Surf Ballroom & Museum.
The Iowa Trolley Park Railroad Museum plays host to the legacy of Clear Lake's old trolley transit system. It's here where you can take turns pumping a vintage hand car or learn how to operate a diesel locomotive. The museum is one of the crown jewels of the city.
