Lake Martin is all about families. We were lucky enough to have both of our children and their spouses here for a few days last weekend. What a pleasure to see them all enjoying the lake as much as they did as kids. There was plenty of time for swimming, skiing, digging for fishing worms, catching fish, getting some sun, and cooking out.

Speaking of lucky enough…we were fortunate to find our place at Lake Martin when our kids were young. We came every weekend winter and summer and we spent hours fixing up our old cabin. Anyone with a second home knows that one requirement is having 2 of everything (tools, groceries, and more) – one for the lake and one for the primary residence. Of course, we usually managed to have both hammers and bottles of ketchup at the same house!

The kids did help with all our projects – but they also had time for fun. Fishing, swimming, building forts on an island, building a raft out of old styrofoam and deck boards, learning to ski, and more. They also learned boating safety, good lake manners, to wave at other boaters, and always to stop and help folks with a problem.

We retold lots of stories and laughed a lot! Memories are as good as the real thing!

Sellers naturally believe their property is valuable. Here’s the bad news - it’s only worth what a buyer will pay. In 2007, sales at Lake Martin were not as brisk as in previous years and many blamed that on the low water levels. However, in 2008 the lake is nearly full, potential buyers are coming to the lake, but sales are still not as brisk as in the past.

In my opinion, buyers are shopping but they are “kicking the tires” and looking for “a steal.” Everyone wants that! Some prices have adjusted downwards, but we’re not seeing any “fire sales” and foreclosures are pretty rare here.

If you’re a seller, consider dropping your price by as much as 5%. If the buyers are looking for a “buyer’s market” why not give it to them? Otherwise, recognize that your home may stay on the market a little longer. If you’re a buyer, make an offer – it might just be accepted!

Most Important – buyers and sellers need to consult with their Realtor®. Both sides need to make sure their expectations are realistic! In the Lake Martin Real Estate market, we need to remember:

ABR Accredited Buyer Representative

CRS Certified Residential Specialist

GRI Graduate Realtor Institute

One of the newest certifications is RSPS – Resort and Second-Home Property Specialist. According to the National Association of REALTORS®, this is a course designed especially for the resort, retirement and second-home professional who understands the unique needs of this market. Today, 1 out of 3 homes sold is a second-home in vacation, recreation or investment markets. If you’re searching for an agent to assist you in buying or selling property at Lake Martin, check out the letters behind his or her name!

We expect this holiday weekend at Lake Martin will be one of the busiest ever. The Marine Police will be out in full force helping to keep our waterway safe; the marinas are stocking up for the crowds; and the many visitors to our area are looking forward to a great weekend.

The weather should be great – a few afternoon showers – but otherwise, sunny skies. The lake is full and as clean and clear as we’ve ever seen it. So, ENJOY this beautiful weekend in this wonderful place. And, when you have the chance, stop to remember those that have given of themselves so that we could be here on Memorial Day. I’ll be thinking of my Mom & Dad who were both pilots in World War II.

We have several condominium complexes on the lake and these appeal to a certain group of buyers who don’t want to do any chores such as cutting the grass, repairing the dock, patching a leaky roof, etc. They just want to enjoy the lake! In addition to having a place that requires little upkeep, some buyers are interested in earning a few dollars in rental income. Many of the condo units on Lake Martin may be used for short or long-term rentals; however, some do not allow any rentals, so be sure to investigate all the restrictions if you’re in the market for a condo.

One of the prettiest locations on Lake Martin is Crowne Pointe. By road, it is off Highway 50 to Centerport Road, to Silver Hill. By water, it is on Blue Creek between Cooper Branch and Curry’s Point. There are 5 buildings and each contains 18 units. Each building has 3 floors, an elevator, and storage space. Crowne Pointe will feature 2 swimming pools for residents and every unit will have a boat slip. These units may be rented on a weekly basis. You may choose from the following: 2 bedroom, 2 bath, 3 bedroom, 3bath with a wrap-around deck, or 3 bedroom, 3 bath including a loft. Prices range from $345,000 to $650,000. The views are to die for, and summer is almost here. So, if a condo is in your future, Crowne Pointe is just the place!

The lake is nearly full, and it looks like life as we know it has returned to normal.  Local restaurants and businesses are already seeing an increase in the number of customers, and lots of boats and jet skis have been out on the water.  If you doubted Mother Nature, come take a look for yourself.  We still need more rain to keep the lake level high, so keep up the rain dances.  And, when you have a chance – thank Alabama Power for managing the lake levels so that we could reach full pool so early this year.  All that to say - now’s a great time to look for waterfront property!

If you’re just beginning your search, here are some things to remember:
·        Get your financing in place – mortgage lenders want your business but some of the lending guidelines have changed.
·        Consider what’s most important to you – the lot or the house – you ll probably find one or the other – but not both!
·        If this is a second home for you, is the drive time a big deal?
·        Shopping on-line is great, but, find a REALTOR® you’re comfortable with to assist you with all the details of purchasing property.
·        If you really like a particular property, don’t wait – someone else will like it too!

During the month of January, we have seen the lake rise 18 inches or 1.5 feet. Most of this can be attributed to rainfall. Mother Nature really is in charge of filling Lake Martin. We are all hoping for more rain – not just in the lake, but in our watershed. Our watershed extends over 3000 square miles north and east. That’s where we need the rain. The Tallapoosa River runs about 235 miles in length from Paulding County, GA to the point where it merges with the Alabama River just above Montgomery.

What can you do to help? Take your car to the car wash; plan an outdoor activity; do a rain dance! You just never know…

During 2005 and 2006, investors were looking to buy low - sell high and make a killing at Lake Martin.  In my opinion, buyers in 2008 will be purchasing properties for their own use and enjoyment.  That’s great news – new people coming to this beautiful place because they want to spend some quality time here.

Everyone wants to buy something that will increase in value – and that will still be true at the lake – but maybe not as much or as fast as in past years.  That’s ok – it’s a wonderful place for slowing down, taking it easy, enjoying the scenery, and making great memories with family and friends.  So – if you think you’d like to take the plunge…come on down – the water’s fine (or it will be as soon as we get a little more rain!)