The friendly people at Homewood, reasonable rates, and never ending powder during and after storms makes this my favorite ski resort in the Lake Tahoe area. Homewood isn't widely known or visited because most of the lifts are slow, the amenities are reminiscent of the 70's, and its low altitude can make snow conditions poor when higher areas like Alpine Meadows or Squaw are better. Frankly, I hope Homewood never fixes the slow lifts or upgrades the dining facilities. I love the homey friendly feeling of the place and welcome the rest on the lifts. It's a small price to pay for untracked powder.
Homewood is also the best deal around Lake Tahoe. Midweek lift tickets can be as low as $22. That's right $22 for a multi-day, $27 for a single day. Just awesome. During peak season and weekends their prices are $40-$45.
It's also a great place for kids. Kids 10 and under ride free when accompanied by a paying adult. Lessons are pricier: $100 for all day and $70 for 1/2 day. This is where many of the local kids learn to ski and ride, so your kids will be in good, if old school hands. I believe they even let you see what's going on during ski school which some of the other resorts (like Squaw) try to prevent.
Note that the Homewood mountain is heavily filled with trees. I remember when I was first learning to snowboard I thought the runs were quite narrow. Not super narrow, but it was another thing to add to my overall nervousness. Now I can ride the runs easily, and they don't seem so bad. Regardless, all skiing and riding should include a helmet at this resort. Heck helmets should be worn everywhere these days:).
Due to the preponderance of trees, this is a great place during a storm. The trees reduce wind and improve visibility.
Also note that due to low altitude Homewood's season is shorter than some of the surrounding areas. But when there's fresh snow there's nothing better in the area.