Everything you need to know about buying lakefront homes in Blue Ridge, GA

Buy lakefront homes in Lake Blue Ridge, GA

Whether you’d rather grab a swimsuit, towel and cooler and head down to the dock, or sit on your back deck with a book, sip on your drink, and overlook the picturesque view, the perfect lakefront home awaits you on the glistening waters of Lake Blue Ridge!

Nestled in the heart of the tri-state area with gorgeous mountain views, forests, and lakes surrounding, Blue Ridge is the idyllic location to call home (or your home away from home) if you’re considering lakefront living. Not only are you able to enjoy life on the lake, but you will also be a part of a thriving community, enjoy a wide variety of outdoor and fun activities, and have access to diverse shopping and cuisines. Sounds too good to be true? It’s not – Blue Ridge is the answer to your dreams!

A CLOSER LOOK AT BLUE RIDGE, GEORGIA

Located in the North Georgia Mountains, the city of Blue Ridge is located in Fannin County. Before Blue Ridge’s incorporation in 1887, it was a popular destination for those looking for jobs in logging, mining, and agriculture. When the Marietta and North Georgia Railroad was extended to Blue Ridge, the town became more accessible. In 1895, the seat of Fannin County was officially transferred to Blue Ridge. Over the years, more people began discovering the beauty of the city and its surrounding mountains and lakes. By 1986, the steady flow of tourists ballooned, making Blue Ridge and the surrounding communities full-fledged tourist destinations.

Today, Blue Ridge is a beautiful and thriving community. It combines the best of small-town charm, pristine nature, and recreational activities. You can enjoy nature and still have access to urban amenities. Truly the best of both worlds.

THE REAL ESTATE MARKET IN BLUE RIDGE, GA

Due to its prime location, Blue Ridge is a popular destination for those seeking beautiful lakefront homes and cabins.

As of February 2023, based on information from Realtor.com, the median listing price for a home in Blue Ridge, GA, was approximately $648,000.  The median price of homes sold was $530,000, with prices trending upward as more and more people are seeking peaceful homes closer to nature looked to Blue Ridge. 

As of April 2023, lakefront homes on Lake Blue Ridge even reached north of $5 million with the average listing between $1 million to $3 million, according to the Northeast Georgia Board of Realtors MLS.

Lakefront properties may be more expensive than inland homes, but the benefits are worth the extra investment. If you are patient, do your research, and work with a reputable Realtor familiar with the best properties and communities in the area, you can be sure to find a serene oasis nestled on the lake shoreline

PROPERTY TYPES TO CONSIDER WHEN BUYING A LAKE HOME IN BLUE RIDGE, GA

There are a variety of neighborhoods and communities to explore around Lake Blue Ridge. There are also three property types to consider when looking for Blue Ridge lakefront homes for sale.

One property type rests right on the lake’s shoreline and usually includes amenities like a dock or a boathouse.  Sometimes you can also enjoy a small beachfront area outside your front or back door.

Another type is lake access properties. These types of homes have access to the lake, usually through a shared/common area, but the home is not on the banks of the lake.

The third property type is lakeview. These properties may be located a little further from the lake. They offer scenic and often expansive views of the lake, but they are  not found on the beach or shoreline.

Lake access and lakeview homes are less expensive alternatives but you can still enjoy the beautiful scenery of Lake Blue Ridge.

OTHER THINGS TO CONSIDER WHEN PURCHASING A LAKE HOME IN BLUE RIDGE

Now that you know the three types of lake properties, you’re ready to start looking for your ideal lake home. The next step is determining the property size and condition of the houses you explore.

Here are some considerations you should keep in mind when assessing properties:

1. Property area

   Understand how big or small you need your home to be. This will help you narrow your choices to the square footage you find ideal.

2. Home layout

   Many lake homes are designed with views in mind. When checking out homes, find out in what direction the views face and decide if the configuration pleases you or allows sufficient sunlight into the house.

3. Proximity to water

   “On the shoreline” can be relative. Some homes are nearer to the water than others.

4. Terrain of the lot

   Not often considered, the slope of the lot is something to consider. In the mountains, the terrain may be a little steeper than other lakefront properties, so you will want to think about how you will get to and from the lake.

Waterfront Features and Amenities

When looking for a lakefront property, learn everything you can about the lake and its different waterfront features and amenities. That way, you know if it’s right for you.

Are you interested in swimming or are you more interested in prime fishing spots? Do you want to go boating regularly, or are you content sitting and watching the water from your porch? This will help determine the location you are most interested in on the lake, as well as what type of lake home to consider.

Cost, budget, and financing options

Cost is one of the most important factors when looking for lakefront homes, which are often more expensive and in higher demand. Plus, there may be potential costs you have not considered such as dock maintenance, dredging, and more.

Home insurance can also be expensive for a waterfront property because these homes are more vulnerable to the elements. Since you are looking at houses on the lake, flooding can potentially be a concern depending on the lay of the land.  

Planning for these expenses is crucial. They will help you determine if the home is within your budget. Figure out  how much you can spend, so you can narrow your search by looking at properties within your price range.

It’s also good to work with a reputable Realtor familiar with the area who can guide you through all the possible costs and help you explore different financing options to get the waterfront home of your dreams.

REGULATIONS FOR LAKEFRONT HOMES IN GEORGIA

After determining where you want to live and looking at various Blue Ridge lakefront homes for sale, the final step is understanding the local regulations for lakefront homes in Georgia.

Here are a few important things you need to know:

1. Georgia Shoreline Protection Act. This act was signed in 1979 to protect Georgia’s lakes, coastal dunes, and more from the negative impact of human activity. Per this act, there is a 25-foot regulated zone between private lakefront developments and the high tide line for the body of water.
2. Permits. Because there are several environmental regulations for lakefront properties, there are many corresponding permits for any work or expansion done on these homes. These permits may need to be cleared through the city’s local guidelines and waterfront plans and even the state’s waterfront regulations.
3. Buffer zones.  If your home is within 1,000 feet of the water, your structure may be subject to additional requirements or scrutiny from the local government. Be sure to ask about this when purchasing an existing lakefront property.
4. Septic systems. Blue Ridge lakefront homes rely on septic systems to prevent untreated sewage from entering the lake. Understanding how the septic system works and maintaining it properly is essential. Plus, repairs on broken systems can be difficult and costly.

FIND THE BEST LAKEFRONT HOMES FOR SALE WITH NATHAN FITTS & TEAM

Are you interested in living on the shores of Lake Blue Ridge? Then it’s time to look for Blue Ridge lakefront homes for sale.

Let Nathan Fitts & Team help you navigate and explore Blue Ridge, Georgia’s waterfront real estate market. The team is renowned for its impeccable and personalized service, willingness to go the extra mile, and ability to match clients with the home of their dreams.

Get started on your real estate journey and explore Blue Ridge lakefront homes for sale now. You can get in touch with Nathan Fitts and his incredible real estate team today at 706.632.3000 or contact us here.