451 Hagan Road Sold!

Some Lake Martin homes have great views. Others have a great location. Every once in a while, a home comes along that has both, and this home was one of those places. I’m happy to say that 451 Hagan Road is officially sold!

A Home in the Heart of Kowaliga

Long before there was a Lake Martin, there was Kowaliga. Today, the name still carries a little extra weight because of its history, the famous bridge, the restaurant, and the Hank Williams song, but for the people who spend time here, it feels like the center of the lake.

451 Hagan Road put its owners right in the middle of that story. With 181 feet of waterfront as well as big-water views, it offered the kind of setting that keeps people coming back to Kowaliga generation after generation.

More Than a View

The lakeside deck was one of my favorite parts of the property. It was the kind of place for morning coffee while watching the boats drift by all day, and every Fourth of July came with a front-row seat to one of Lake Martin’s favorite traditions.

Those are the things that make a house feel different. Square footage gets your attention, but experiences are what people remember.

A New Family, A New Story

Every family leaves its mark on a lake house. They celebrate holidays, teach kids to ski, host friends for weekends, and slowly build traditions that become part of the property itself.

Now it’s someone else’s turn. I’m excited for the new owners, grateful to have helped the sellers, and thankful that another great Lake Martin home found the right family.

Congratulations

Congratulations to everyone involved with the sale of 451 Hagan Road. I know this house will keep doing what it’s always done — bringing people together and giving them a reason to look forward to their next trip to Lake Martin.

Contact Information

If you’re interested in selling or buying real estate on Lake Martin, then I would love to help you out. I’m John Coley with Lake Martin Voice Realty. I’ve been a realtor on the lake for over 20 years now, and I would love to use what I see about the market to help you with your purchase or property for sale.

Please give me a call at the number on the top of this page. You can also use my CONTACT PAGE to reach me and send me an email. I look forward to hearing from you!

For more information about the lake, make sure to visit my Lake Martin Voice YouTube channel. I post a lot of videos about lake life, real estate, market reports, and more. Please subscribe to the channel if you find it helpful to you. Thanks!

Interested in reading more blogs like this one? Then, visit the links listed below:

Harbor Pointe Condo Sold!

80 Honeysuckle Lane Sold

28 Forrest Way Sold

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Redesigning a Lake Martin Condo

I’m standing in 507 Villas on the Harbor today, right here in StillWaters, and it’s available now to buy. The view, location, and waterfront make this condo a great place to be on Lake Martin. You might look at it and ask the question, “What would it take to make this feel like my lake place?” To help answer that question, I’ve asked for some input from a professional when it comes to redesigning a Lake Martin condo.

Erin Baker, an interior designer, walked through this unit with me and gave some real-world insight into what redesigning a Lake Martin condo actually looks like. Not the HGTV version, but the real version, and there are a few things you should know before you dive in.

Constraint #1: You’re Not Starting From Scratch

A condo isn’t a blank canvas, and that’s the first mental shift most people have to make. You’ve got existing walls, fixed plumbing, HOA rules, ceiling heights, and neighbors on the other side of those walls. That doesn’t mean you can’t make meaningful changes, but it does mean you need to think smarter, not just bigger.

Erin’s process usually starts with a sketch, which sounds simple but is incredibly important. It’s not about detailed architectural plans right out of the gate, it’s about getting the vision out of her head and into something the client can see. Most people don’t struggle with ideas, they struggle with picturing the end result before they commit.

Small Changes, Big Impact

One of my favorite takeaways from this walkthrough was how much impact you can get from changes that sound almost too small to matter. In the kitchen alone, lowering the bar height a few inches, swapping out an old light fixture for recessed lighting, painting cabinets, and adding new hardware all seem minor on their own. But when you stack them together, the entire space starts to feel more open, more usable, and more current.

That’s really the game in condo redesign. You’re not always tearing everything out, you’re making a series of smart, intentional moves that build on each other. Over time, those small decisions add up to a big shift in how the space feels.

You’re Designing for How You Actually Live at the Lake

Lake Martin isn’t normal life, and your condo shouldn’t be designed like it is. This is a place for weekends, holidays, football games, and long afternoons where nobody’s checking the clock. People gather, spread out, and use the space in ways that don’t happen back in town.

Because of that, the layout needs to flex. Erin talked about breaking the open space into zones so you can have a place to dine, a place to watch the game, and a smaller nook for reading or playing cards. It’s not about making the condo feel bigger, it’s about making it work better.

The Noise Factor Nobody Talks About

Here’s something most people don’t think about until they’ve lived in a condo for a while. You’ve got neighbors above you, below you, and beside you, and that changes how the space feels day to day. It’s not a dealbreaker, but it is something to plan for.

Erin suggested using rugs and even canvas artwork with built-in sound absorption. That’s the kind of detail you won’t notice in a listing, but you’ll appreciate when you’re hosting friends or trying to enjoy a quiet morning. It won’t block everything, but it helps take the edge off, and that matters.

Condo Furniture Mistakes

People assume that smaller space means they need smaller furniture, so they end up with a bunch of pieces that don’t really anchor the room. The result is a space that feels disconnected instead of comfortable.

Erin’s approach is to mix large and small pieces and think in terms of balance. She describes it as thinking in black and white, looking at what feels heavy and what feels light. When everything heavy sits low, the room feels like it’s sinking, so you want to carry that balance upward through the space.

Light Is a Feature Until It Isn’t

Natural light is one of the biggest selling points of a Lake Martin condo. Big windows, great views, and that connection to the water are hard to beat. But there are times when all that light works against you, especially when you’re trying to sleep during the day.

That’s where simple solutions like blackout roller shades come in. They’re clean, functional, and don’t fight the overall design of the space. It’s one of those small upgrades that makes a big difference in how livable the condo feels.

The Real Challenge: Decision Overload

What I see with buyers all the time is that redesigning isn’t necessarily hard, it’s just that there are so many decisions. Floors, countertops, cabinets, lighting, hardware, and window treatments all start to stack up. Each one feels small, but together they can feel overwhelming.

That’s where working with a designer really helps. Someone like Erin can take all those moving pieces and turn them into a clear plan. It keeps you from second-guessing every choice and helps you move forward with confidence.

Final Thought

507 Villas on the Harbor is what I’d call a good bones property. It’s right on the water, right by the marina, and right in the middle of everything that makes StillWaters special. That gives you a strong starting point whether you change anything or not.

You can enjoy it as it is, or you can shape it into something that better fits your version of lake life. Both approaches work, and neither one is wrong. But if you’re the kind of person who walks in and starts imagining what it could be, this condo could be a great place to do that.

If you’ve got questions about this condo or anything else around Lake Martin, reach out. I’m John Coley with Lake Martin Voice Realty, and I’d love to help you out. Give me a call at the number on the top of this page or use my Contact Page to reach me.

For more blogs on other available listings, visit the links listed below:

889 Driftwood Price Drop

Price Drop for Condo at Lake Martin

Price Drop 284 Harbor View Blvd

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Trillium: What Makes This Lake Martin Neighborhood So Special?

There’s Lake Martin neighborhoods, and then there’s Trillium. When people start looking at waterfront property here, they quickly realize Trillium has a personality all its own. That’s why I wanted to look at some homes, study the market, and give a real feeling of why Trillium is so special.

Classic Trillium Architecture and Privacy

The first house I toured sits on Trillium West Parkway and is listed by India and Mike Davis. At the time of this writing, the home is listed for $3.9 million. It’s a classic Trillium property with a huge view, timeless architecture, and incredible attention to detail.

One thing that stands out about Trillium is the lots. I think of them as flat, wooded lots that provide a lot of privacy from the street. This particular home sits on one of those private lots and includes eight bedrooms, eight bathrooms, and more than 7,000 square feet.

The home also features an infinity pool that seems to melt directly into the lake. That’s a good example of how many Trillium homes are designed around the waterfront experience. Everything about the property points your attention toward the water.

When people think of Trillium, this is often what comes to mind. You see natural materials, huge ceilings, and timeless architecture with the entire house framed around the lake.

Understanding the Trillium Market

When you study the Trillium market, you quickly realize that every year looks a little different. In the last twenty-four months, six waterfront homes sold in a range from roughly $1.6 million to $3.6 million. If you had to throw a dart at the board, you’d probably say the average falls somewhere around $2 million.

At the same time, current listings have pushed much higher with recent homes offered at $3.9 million, $5.5 million, and $5.75 million. The neighborhood includes a wide variety of properties, and that makes pricing very case-by-case.

Over the last twenty-four months, only one lot sold in Trillium. That makes sense because the neighborhood is largely built out. That lot sold for just over $1 million.

Why Trillium Feels Different

When you spend time in Trillium, you start to understand why it feels unique. You’re on the old side of the lake, but you still see contemporary architecture, renovations, and newer construction. Every owner seems to add their own personality while respecting the character of the neighborhood.

That’s one reason Trillium remains one of my favorite neighborhoods on Lake Martin. You can find homes from different eras that have evolved over time. The result is a neighborhood that feels established without feeling dated.

The House with Its Own Island

Becky Haney of Lake Martin Realty has listed one of the most iconic homes in Trillium. Listed at $5.75 million, this home includes five bedrooms, three-and-a-half baths, and more than 6,400 square feet. What makes it truly special is that it has its own island.

If you’ve spent much time boating through Trillium, you know exactly which house I’m talking about. The property includes more than 840 feet of shoreline that wraps around a point. That creates incredible sunrise and sunset views.

The house is a local landmark. You can simply say, “the house with the island,” and most people know exactly which one you mean. That’s how iconic it has become.

A Rare Piece of Lake Martin

Some homes are difficult to capture in photographs. This house has so many windows and such a massive view that pictures struggle to tell the story. The great room serves as the centerpiece of the entire property.

You stand there surrounded by walls of glass. You have total privacy, sunrise views, moonrise views, and sunset views from different parts of the property. There simply aren’t many places on Lake Martin like it.

The current owners expanded and personalized the home over the years. The result is a contemporary property that still feels connected to the history of Trillium. It truly has a character all its own.

Flat Lots and Year-Round Water

I have a rule at Lake Martin that says deep means steep. Usually, if you want deep water, you’re going to have a steep lot. Trillium breaks that rule more often than almost anywhere else on the lake.

Many homes in Trillium enjoy flat lots and year-round water access. Buyers love being able to walk easily to the water without sacrificing lake depth. That’s a rare combination.

A lot of buyers also choose Trillium because the lots tend to be larger. The neighborhood offers privacy and natural shoreline features that many people appreciate. Some even believe the water here has a slightly bluer appearance.

The Location in the Russell Lands Corridor

Trillium sits on the south side of Lake Martin in the Kowaliga area. It’s located right in what I call the Russell Lands corridor. That means owners enjoy convenient access to many of the area’s most popular amenities.

Kowaliga Marina sits just across the slough. Children’s Harbor is nearby, and Church in the Pines is right down the road. Russell Crossroads is also close, putting many of Russell Lands’ destinations within easy reach.

The neighborhood sits where Little Kowaliga Creek and Big Kowaliga Creek come together. Just a few sloughs away, you’ll find older Alabama Power cabins and areas around Real Island. That mix of old and new contributes to the character of this part of the lake.

A Neighborhood Built Around the Land

One of the fascinating things about Trillium is how it was developed. Many of the islands and points existed long before the neighborhood arrived. Developers rebuilt causeways and old road connections to reach these unique sites.

Trillium began taking shape in the late 1980s and early 1990s. Today, it is essentially built out. You might find an occasional vacant lot, but most homesites have already been developed.

Even though Trillium is a large neighborhood, turnover remains relatively low. Looking back over the last twenty-four months, only seven properties changed hands. That’s a sign that many owners prefer to hold onto their homes.

Homes Designed for the Water

Another standout property in Trillium is listed by John Christenberry. The home sits at the end of a point and carries a list price of $5.5 million. Its location creates nearly 270-degree water views.

One of the first things you notice is the timber-frame construction. The house features huge vaulted ceilings, exposed beams, and beautiful wood floors. Every detail feels intentional.

Many Trillium homes feel custom designed for their specific locations. They don’t feel like somebody picked a floor plan and forced it onto a lot. They feel like the house and the land were designed together.

This particular home even includes a rooftop deck. You can stand above the trees and enjoy nearly 360-degree views of Lake Martin. Even after showing hundreds of homes around the lake, that view surprised me.

Why People Stay in Trillium

One thing I’ve noticed over the years is that people tend to hang onto their homes in Trillium. The neighborhood includes a couple hundred homes and lots, yet you still don’t see a tremendous amount of turnover. That’s usually a sign that owners are happy with where they are.

Trillium combines privacy, large lots, year-round water, custom architecture, and a prime location. Few neighborhoods on Lake Martin offer all of those things in one package. That’s what makes Trillium so special.

Contact Information

If you’re interested in buying a home in Trillium, then I would love to help you out. Please give me a call at the number on the top of this page. You can also reach me through my email or CONTACT PAGE. Visit my YouTube channel, Lake Martin Voice, for more videos about Lake Martin.

CLICK HERE for more information on Trillium. Also, for more blogs about Lake Martin neighborhoods, visit the links listed below:

Discover Trillium on Lake Martin

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White Oak: Waterfront Living on Lake Martin Alabama

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451 Hagan Road is Under Contract in the Heart of Kowaliga

Kowaliga stands as one of the oldest and most iconic areas of Lake Martin. For more than a hundred years, the huge views across Kowaliga Bay have attracted lake people, country music legends, and anybody who loves Lake Martin. It’s no surprise that 451 Hagan Road is now under contract.

Lake Martin fans know that Hank Williams Sr. used to vacation right here at Lake Martin. Back in the 1950s, he spent time on Kowaliga Bay and wrote the song “Kaw-Liga.” That story tells you something about this place and why people have felt drawn to this area for generations.

Why Buyers Love This Part of the Lake

At Lake Martin, buyers usually prioritize three things: view first, privacy second, and location third. 451 Hagan Road checked all three boxes. The incredible views, outstanding privacy, and prime location on Kowaliga Bay made it easy to understand why buyers responded so quickly.

Kowaliga Bay is as big as it gets. The open-water views stretch for miles, and the scenery is amazing. This setting reminds you why so many families dream about owning a place on Lake Martin.

Restaurants, Fireworks, and Lake Martin Traditions

You’re just minutes from the oldest and probably the most famous waterfront restaurant on the lake. Kowaliga Restaurant has welcomed boaters and families for decades, and from 451 Hagan Road, boating over and enjoying one of Lake Martin’s favorite spots has never been easier. The Social also sits only about a mile away by water, giving homeowners another great waterfront dining option close to home.

Every summer, Kowaliga Bay hosts one of the biggest free Fourth of July fireworks shows in the Southeast. Thousands of people gather by boat and by land to enjoy one of Lake Martin’s favorite traditions. One of my favorite features of this property was that you could simply sit on the lakeside deck and enjoy a front-row seat to the entire show.

A Home Built for Lake Living

If you’ve spent time around custom homes at Lake Martin, then you’ll recognize the fireplace stonework immediately. Local contractor Ben Newman built it, and one of his signature touches is a small hidden cubby built into the stone. When I walked into the house, I knew exactly who built it.

The lake level also offered easy access to the water and created a layout that worked well for family and guests. The spaces connected naturally and encouraged people to gather together. That’s exactly what a Lake Martin home should do.

Big Water Views and Easy Access to the Lake

The aerial view told the story better than words ever could. From above, you could truly appreciate the size of Kowaliga Bay as well as the expansive water views. Few properties enjoy this combination of scenery and location.

The double covered boat slip makes life on the water easy. Whether heading out for a quick sunset ride or spending the entire day on Lake Martin, everything stays protected and ready. Convenience like this helps homeowners spend more time enjoying the lake.

When you look toward Kowaliga Bridge, you understand why generations of families have chosen this area. The views, the history, and the traditions all come together here. Kowaliga simply feels like Lake Martin.

Another Family Gets to Be Part of the Story

Although 451 Hagan Road is now under contract, it remains a great example of what makes Kowaliga such a special place to own waterfront property. This home offered access to the restaurants, the fireworks, the history, and the huge views that have made this area one of the most sought-after on Lake Martin. More importantly, it gives another family the opportunity to become part of a story that has unfolded on these waters for generations.

Looking for Something Similar?

If you missed out on 451 Hagan Road, don’t worry. New opportunities come on the market throughout the year, and I’d be glad to help you find another waterfront property that fits your family’s goals. Give me a call, send me an email at John@LakeMartinVoice.com, or use the Contact Page on this website to start the conversation.

Interested in more blogs like this one? Then, visit the links listed below to view more Lake Martin homes and condos available. Also, visit my YouTube channel called Lake Martin Voice for more informative videos on the lake.

Price Drop 284 Harbor View Blvd

Harbor Pointe Condo Sold!

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Friday on the Green July 3rd

Start off the holiday weekend right at Friday on the Green on July 3rd! This is a fun music event at Russell Crossroads that is always a fun time, so definitely mark your calendars for this Friday.

There will be great live music by Jonathan Bloom starting at 6:30 PM and will go until 8:30 PM. There will also be fun and games as well for the whole family to enjoy.

Visit Russell Crossroads for Friday on the Green July 3rd

If you’ve been to Lake Martin, then you have probably visited Russell Crossroads. This is a great area with a few restaurants and shops that are always great to stop by on a trip.

The three restaurants located at the Russell Crossroads area are Catherine’s Market, Fanny’s, and Springhouse. Also, Bru 63 inside Catherine’s Market is a great place to grab coffee. Download my free Lake Martin Voice App to see their hours and menus. Also on my app, you will find information on more events and restaurants as well as marinas located on the lake. 

If you’ve never been to Russell Crossroads, then this event is a great time to check it out!

Real Estate on Lake Martin

Interested in moving to Lake Martin? Then, please give me a call at the number on the top of this page. My name is John Coley, and I’ve been a realtor here on the lake for 20 years now. I would love to help you out if you have any questions about life on the lake or are interested in buying real estate here.

There are so many great neighborhoods near Russell Crossroads such as Willow Point, The Heritage, and Willow Glynn. Check out my Neighborhood Page to learn more about these neighborhoods and more. 

To learn more about Lake Martin, you can also visit my YouTube channel. I post fun and informative videos that can help you learn more about the area. If you find my videos helpful, then please let me know by subscribing to my channel.

Reach me by phone, shoot me an email, or use my Contact Page linked here. I look forward to hearing from you!

For more blogs about Russell Crossroads click the links listed below: 

Lots to Do at Russell Crossroads at Lake Martin

Fanny’s Near Lake Martin Reopens!

Inside Catherine’s Market At Russell Crossroads

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Harbor Pointe Condo D102 Sold!

I’m happy to report that Harbor Pointe Condo D102 is now sold! I had the privilege of representing the sellers, and I’m excited for my clients as they move into their next chapter.

They spent years enjoying life at Lake Martin. They watched countless sunsets from this condo and made memories with family and friends. Those memories are part of what makes lake property so special.

One of the best parts of this business is helping people transition from one season of life to another. Selling a lake property is rarely just a financial decision. It often involves a lifetime of stories and experiences.

Lake Martin Sunsets

Sometimes I think all of my videos and photos could be replaced by a single Lake Martin sunset picture. Not because those things aren’t important. They are.

But, every now and then, a photo captures the reason people come here in the first place. One glance at the orange glow stretching across the water and you understand what Lake Martin is all about. The view has a way of stopping you in your tracks.

The sunset photo from Harbor Pointe Condo D102 does exactly that. It reminds us why people dream about owning a place on Lake Martin. It also reminds us that some views never get old.

Why Buyers Choose Lake Martin

After years of selling real estate at Lake Martin, I’ve noticed that buyers rarely fall in love with square footage alone. They rarely get excited about a property because of a list of features. They fall in love with a lifestyle.

Sometimes it’s a dock where the grandchildren learn to swim. Sometimes it’s a porch where the family gathers after a long day on the water. Or, sometimes it’s a sunset that you see while cruising on the lake.

Harbor Pointe D102 offered many of the things buyers are looking for today. It combined convenience through the ground level and boat slip, waterfront views, as well as a great location in StillWaters. Most importantly, it offered a place where memories could be made.

The Market Continues To Change

The Lake Martin market is continuing to change. So, if you’re curious about the value of your property, then I’d be glad to share what I’m seeing in today’s market. There is no pressure and no sales pitch. Just honest information from someone who studies this market every day.

Congratulations again to my clients on getting Harbor Pointe Condo D102 sold and also on their next adventure. The condo may be changing hands, but the sunset will still show up every evening.

Contact Information

Please give me a call at the number on the top of this page if you would like to talk about all things Lake Martin. You can also reach me through my Contact Page or email. I look forward to helping you out.

Interested in learning more about the lake? Then, make sure to visit my Lake Martin Voice YouTube channel. I post a lot of videos on there that could be beneficial to you. Also, to read more blogs on Lake Martin listings, visit the links listed below:

80 Honeysuckle Lane Sold

Price Drop for Condo at Lake Martin

Price Drop 284 Harbor View Blvd

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Fourth of July Fireworks at Lake Martin

Every year, thousands of people come to watch the Fourth of July fireworks at Lake Martin. Some come by land, and some come by boat. If you’ve never been before, or even if you’ve been a few times, there are a few things you should know that might make the experience go a little better.

There are really two ways to see the fireworks. You can come by land, or you can come by sea. The fireworks are shot over Kowaliga Bay from the Lake Martin Amphitheater, and thousands of people gather to watch.

The Two Best Ways to Watch

Literally thousands of boats and thousands of people gather up to watch the fireworks be shot over the water from the Lake Martin Amphitheater. It has become one of the biggest annual traditions on Lake Martin. People start gathering well before dark and fill the bay from shoreline to shoreline.

By far, I recommend buying tickets and going to the amphitheater. It’s much safer, and it’s much more controlled. Things can get a little hairy out on the water sometimes.

The Free Fireworks Show in Kowaliga Bay

Behind me is Kowaliga Bay, and every year it fills up with thousands of boats that come to watch the free fireworks show that Russell Lands puts on for the Fourth of July. People don’t just line the water. They also line up along the highways and nearby roads looking for a place to watch.

This isn’t a small neighborhood fireworks display. They prepare for this for a long time. A professional fireworks company comes in and puts on the show, and it has become one of the most famous events at Lake Martin.

How to Watch the Fireworks Safely

If you come by car, give yourself a designated driver and a designated helper. Traffic can be heavy both before and after the show, and having a plan makes everything easier.

If you come by boat, you need two or three designated people. When the fireworks end and everyone starts heading home at the same time, the waves and boat traffic can get a little hairy. Please be safe.

You should also know that safety buoys are set up around the launch area. Those buoys keep boats from getting too close to shore. They are there for a reason, so plan accordingly.

Frequently Asked Questions

One of the questions I hear most often is whether you can hear the music from the amphitheater while you’re watching from a boat. The answer is no. Occasionally you might hear a drum beat or something faint, but you won’t hear the music that accompanies the fireworks.

Another common question is whether you can walk to the amphitheater from the shoreline. The answer is no. I suppose it’s physically possible, but by the time you got there you’d be so scratched up and torn up that it’s simply not worth trying.

Fireworks Beyond Kowaliga Bay

If you spend much time at Lake Martin during the Fourth of July, you’ll notice that people all around the lake shoot fireworks. Different neighborhoods and groups of homeowners put on their own displays. Those smaller shows can be a lot of fun too.

Still, Kowaliga Bay is by far the biggest show on the lake. That’s why thousands of people make their way there every year. It has become one of those traditions that defines summer at Lake Martin.

Real Estate on Lake Martin

If you are interested in buying or selling real estate on Lake Martin, then please give me a call at the number on the top of this page. I’m John Coley with Lake Martin Voice Realty, and I would love to help you out. You can also reach me through my email or CONTACT PAGE. I look forward to hearing from you.

Check out my YouTube channel, Lake Martin Voice, to see videos about what life is like at Lake Martin Alabama. For more blogs about Fourth of July, visit the links listed below:

July 4th Concert and Fireworks

Where to Watch 4th of July Fireworks

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889 Driftwood Point Price Drop

One of the few remaining one-of-a-kind lots on Lake Martin just got a new price. 889 Driftwood Point Road had a price drop and is now offered at $569,000.

I’ve talked about this lot before, but what makes it special hasn’t changed. Last year, only about four lots like this sold on Lake Martin. And when I say “like this,” I mean a true blank slate.

Why This Lot Is Different

If you’ve been looking on the Parker Creek side of the lake for a waterfront lot that isn’t tucked inside a neighborhood and isn’t subject to a bunch of HOA rules, then this could be the lot for you.

Most of the lots in this part of Lake Martin had houses built on them years ago. That’s why I was excited when this one came available.

The lot is fully wooded, almost an acre in size at approximately 0.96 acres, and offers about 220 feet of waterfront. There isn’t an old house to tear down, and there isn’t somebody else’s floor plan to work around. It’s a chance to start from scratch and build exactly what fits your family.

Through the Narrows

The property is located through the Narrows on the Parker Creek and Oakachoy side of the lake. If you’re an old-time Lake Martin person, you know exactly where I’m talking about. You come through the Narrows and hang a left.

It’s one of my favorite parts of the lake. By water, you’re close to places like The Landing at Parker Creek, Kowaliga Restaurant, and Smith Marina. It’s convenient to a lot of what people enjoy about the west side, but it still feels like the quieter Lake Martin many of us grew up with.

A True Blank Canvas

As you walk the lot, it’s easy to start imagining where the house, dock, and outdoor living spaces could come together. Everybody sees something different when they walk a vacant lot. That’s one of the things I enjoy most about showing land.

Some people picture a simple lake cabin. Others picture a place where generations of their family will gather for decades. Both are good answers.

One thing I especially like is the flexibility. Unlike many waterfront lots that come with extensive neighborhood restrictions, this area isn’t governed by an HOA. There are Alabama Power requirements, of course, but you’re not dealing with the kinds of neighborhood covenants that often dictate every detail of what you can build.

Whether you’re ready to start construction tomorrow or you’re simply looking to secure a waterfront lot for the future, this property gives you options. You can build now, build later, or simply hold the property while you make plans. That’s part of what makes lots like this so appealing.

Contact Me

If you are interested in buying this lot or other real estate on Lake Martin, then please give me a call. I would love to help you out. Also, if you are looking to sell, then I can help you out there as well. Feel free to send me an email or use my Contact Page to reach me.

Make sure to visit the Lake Martin Voice YouTube channel for more information about what it’s like to live on the lake. Also, visit the links listed below to read more blogs like this one.

Harbor Pointe Price Drop | $559,900 Lake Martin Condo

160 Mariners Road on Lake Martin Price Drop!

The post 889 Driftwood Price Drop appeared first on Lake Martin Voice - Lake Martin Real Estate - Waterfront Homes, Lots, Property For Sale.

Lake Martin Home Building Mistakes

If you’re planning to build your dream Lake Martin house, then you’re going to want to read this. In this blog, I go over some of the biggest Lake Martin home building mistakes I see people make all the time. Hopefully, this will help you avoid making costly errors. 

#1 House Plans

The number one thing I see that builders or spec home builders make is the house plans. They take a favorite plan that they love because maybe they’ve built it a million times back in the city. They love the plan and a lot of their buyers love the plan. However, they kind of shoehorn it in at the lake without consideration for the most important things of the lake. These are the view, the privacy, and taking advantage of the location. 

What I mean by that is maybe their house plan was great for the city, but it might face the wrong way. The lakeside is the most important part of the house, and you have got to design and situate your house to take advantage of that. 

#2 Location

I’d say number two thing is location. If it’s a steep sloped lot, they might think to build it a little bit further back and have a walk to the water. From what I see 99 times out of 100, buyers want to be as close to the water as possible. 

Therefore, even if it means spending a little more in your foundation or a little more in driveways to get to the lake, it’s worth getting as close to the house as possible. 

#3 No Lake View

Another mistake I see is someone might bring in their favorite plan and then won’t design for the lake view. When you come in the door at the lake, the first thing you want to see is water, right? Everybody loves that. That’s why we’re here.

Situate the house, if you can, to where the house faces the water the best. That way a lake view immediately greets you when you enter the home. 

I am seeing that architect designed and custom built homes are adding value on the lake. Some houses are not specifically designed for the lake but look nice, and some are architect designed good.

Architect designed homes usually sell for more and sell at a premium especially when it’s done by architects that are known to have designed here at the lake before.

The house shown in the video above is an example of an architect designed house and was purposely built for the lake. Designed by the then architecture group of Dungan and Nequette, it is a great example.

Contact Information

If you’re a builder and you have a lot and are thinking about building a spec house, then I’d love to help you out and do kind of a pre-consultation free of charge. This way I could hopefully help you avoid some of these mistakes. 

I’m John Coley with Lake Martin Voice Realty and I’d love to help you out. Please give me a call at the number on the top of this page. You can also reach me through my email or Contact Page. I look forward to hearing from you.

Interested in learning more about Lake Martin or real estate here? Then, make sure to check out my YouTube channel linked here. I post a lot of videos that could be beneficial to you. There videos are how I get a lot of my clients, so check them out!

For more blogs about real estate on Lake Martin, visit the links listed below:

3 Tips for Real Estate Walkthroughs at Lake Martin Alabama

Home Inspections on Lake Martin

Why You Need A REAL ESTATE EXPERT on Lake Martin Alabama

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