Lakeview Manor is one of the most popular player homes in The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim, thanks to its customization options and access to the Hearthfire building system.
Some even say Lakeview Manor is the best house in Skyrim because of the scenic view of a lake, space for a steward, bard, and carriage driver. It's also one of three unique Hearthfire homes, alongside Heljarchen Hall and Windstad Manor.
If you’re looking to claim this property, here’s a complete guide on how to unlock and purchase it.
Requirements for Lakeview Manor In Skyrim
Before you can buy Lakeview Manor, you need to own the Hearthfire DLC or play a version of Skyrim where it’s included, such as the Special Edition or Anniversary Edition. Without Hearthfire, the house will not be available.
How to Purchase Lakeview Manor In Skyrim
- Complete a Favor for Falkreath’s Jarl
- Travel to Falkreath, located south of Whiterun.
- Speak with the Jarl (Siddgeir or his replacement, Dengeir, depending on your progress in the Civil War).
- The Jarl will ask you to complete a small favor or bounty quest.
- Assist the People of Falkreath Hold
- You’ll need to help at least three residents by completing minor quests, such as delivering items or clearing out bandit camps.
- Become Thane of Falkreath
- After assisting the townsfolk, the Jarl will grant you the title of Thane. This unlocks the ability to purchase land.
- Buy the Land for 5,000 Gold
- Once you are in Thane, speak to the steward of Falkreath.
- For 5,000 gold, you can buy the plot of land where Lakeview Manor will be built.
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Building Lakeview Manor
After purchasing the land, you’ll receive drafting supplies to begin construction. Using the workbench, you can design the main hall, wings, and interior. Options include an alchemy tower, armory, or library, allowing you to customize the manor to your playstyle.
Lakeview Manor Pros and Cons
Lakeview Manor stands out as the most scenic of the three Hearthfire homes, offering unmatched customization and roleplay potential. While it does suffer from frequent enemy spawns and a grind-heavy building process, its central location and family-friendly features make it a top pick for players who want both convenience and immersion.
Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
Scenic location with a stunning view of Lake Ilinalta | Frequent attacks from bandits, wolves, and even necromancers nearby |
Highly customizable wings (alchemy tower, armory, library, etc.) | Remote from major trade hubs like Solitude and Windhelm |
Can hire a steward, bard, and carriage driver | Requires quests, helping townsfolk, and 5,000 gold to unlock |
Family-friendly with space for spouse and children | Building and furnishing take time and many resources (iron, clay, logs) |
Centrally located near Whiterun and Falkreath for travel | Nearby dangers make it less ideal for families with adopted kids |
In the end, acquiring Lakeview Manor requires becoming Thane of Falkreath and investing 5,000 gold. For players willing to undertake the quest and construction, Lakeview Manor offers one of the most rewarding and picturesque homes in all of Skyrim, blending convenience with immersive, personalized roleplaying opportunities.
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