Here Are The Best Places to Buy a Lake House Right Now
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Lake properties are a hot commodity — for good reason. Along with the obvious (water sports, privacy, a peaceful environment), there are myriad wellness benefits.
Living near a body of water reduces stress and anxiety, promotes better sleep, increases happiness and creativity, and lowers heart and breathing rates.
And then there are the soaring property values. Limited inventory and high demand make lakefront homes a solid investment that’s only going to increase in value.
Ready to dive in? According to Travel + Leisure, here are the most popular U.S. markets for luxury lake living right now.
Lake Austin, Texas
Considering Austin’s booming real estate market, expect to pay a premium. But despite rising prices, long-term prospects remain excellent, reports The Motley Fool. After all, what’s not to love about swoon-worthy lakefront views close to a city as cool as Austin?
T+L recommends the Four Seasons Private Residence Lake Austin, slated for completion in 2025. Situated on a secluded hillside, all 179 luxury residences will feature picturesque views and top-of-the-line amenities (think private marina, tennis courts, 82-foot-long pool, athletic center and spa). But act fast: Eric Moreland, a broker associate at Moreland Properties, says over half the properties are already reserved.
“The incredible reception shows just how deep the demand for waterfront property is now and will continue to be, as people put down deposits three to four years in advance.”
Lake Norman, North Carolina
Located 20 miles north of Charlotte, Lake Norman caters to a laidback lifestyle. Easy access to both the water and mountains makes it a popular destination for homeowners “seeking a quality of life that mimics a vacation with gorgeous views of the lake and recreation at their doorsteps,” according to Catharine Pappas, vice president of relocation at Dickens Mitchener/Luxury Portfolio International.
Prices range from $2 to $5 million. At the high end, this New England-inspired home sports 175-feet of waterfront complete with a private pier and boat slip. Other outdoor amenities include a lakeside seating area, saltwater pool, spa, kitchen, firepit, and beach area.
Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada
The market here is booming, says Jason Kirby of Berkshire Hathaway. “As of January 2022, the median sales price is $3,700,000. This is the first time we’ve seen prices averaging this high for the area.”
Among the most popular locales: Crystal Bay, situated along the North Shore of Lake Tahoe. It’s easy to see why. The homes are spectacular. Case in point: This new construction, a modern interpretation of a classic lake cabin. Three structures, connected by a glass bridge, sport 100-feet of water frontage, a private pier, multiple courtyards, and a huge in-ground spa. Asking price: $28,850.000.
Other top markets to keep on your radar: Coeur d’Alene, Idaho; Smith Mountain Lake, Virginia; and New Buffalo and Harbor Springs, Michigan.
Closer to Dallas, lake properties span the spectrum, from affordable to ultra-extravagant.
Just over $7 million will buy a 2.78-acre peninsula with close to 100 feet of shoreline in Caney City—the “Crown Jewel of Cedar Creek Lake,” according to the Ebby Halliday listing. Out of your range? On the same lake, this new-to-market waterfront cottage is priced at $345,000. (Spoiler alert: That’s asking price. The seller is taking multiple offers, “the highest and best” due Friday, March 11th.)
