I received a call the other day from a prospective buyer, inquiring about waterfront properties on Lake Winnipesaukee or Winnisquam. Like so many would-be vacation buyers out there, they had a pre-conceived idea and visualization of what they wanted. Trouble is, their expectations were unrealistic. They were looking for a cozy cottage on the lake, with nice views and preferably 100 ft of shorefront. When I asked them what price range, their response was $300,000 to $400,000. That answer led me to my next question… Have you ever considered a water access community?
Why water access communities?
The selection is huge. There are approximately 50+ water access communities to consider in the region and all of them have differing amenities and draws. The number one amenity, that everyone is looking for today is price. Water access communities will deliver the right price point for a budget conscious buyer. The price range can vary substantially, from well under $100,000 to $1,000,000+. That’s the key. There is diverse product for everyone in this category.
Here’s an example:
At South Down Shores, there’s a master community with 18 unique water access villages, each with their own architectural theme, amenities, and price range. There are condo villages and single family homes. The sister community at Long Bay features mainly single family homes. The combined communities of South Down and Long Bay total approximately 365 acres, with over a mile of shorefront on Lake Winnipesaukee. Add to the formula sandy beaches, private yacht clubs, boat rack storage with boat lifts, tennis courts, outdoor pools, clubhouses and scenic walking trails; there is a plethora of amenities! With prices from $130,000 to $800,000, the choices are many.
Are all the water access communities substantial in size?
Not necessarily. Many of them are smaller, closely knit associations of 5 to 15 units, which share water frontage and amenities. For example, many of the original cottage colonies and motels on the Big Lake were converted into a condominium form of ownership and are now owned as individual condo homes. Many of them have private boat slips and have been upgraded substantially
What’s the benefit of water access, versus waterfront?
A) Cost is substantially lower.
B) Common amenities are included in the package.
C) Property management services are provided and included in the association fees, allowing a maintenance-free lifestyle for the active vacation property owner.
D) A feeling of security when you are away, knowing that other association members are on site and the property is properly taken care of.
E) Social acquaintances and playmates for children at the beaches and recreational amenities.
F) You are not confined to a small lot. For example, at Gunstock Acres in Gilford, the homes are situated on three hills overlooking Lake Winnipesaukee. With a large private beach, there are plenty of areas to walk to.
Here is a list of some of the many communities:
In Meredith there is the Grouse Point Club, Meredith Moorings, Sands of Brookhurst, Winnipesaukee Beach Colony Club, Lake Ridge on Meredith Bay, and Patrician Shores.
In Moultonborough, there is Jonathan’s Landing, Lands End, Hemlock Harbor, Windward Harbor, Harbourside, Crosswinds, Far Echo Harbor, Balmoral and Swissevale.
In Gilford there is Samoset, Broadview Condominiums, Winnstock, Stonedrift, Gunstock Acres, Misty Harbor, Dockham Shores Estates, and Yacht Club Vista.
In Laconia there are a many choices including Christmas Island, Windover Condominium, South Down Shores, Long Bay, Meredith Bay, Eastern Shores, Country Club Shores, Mallard Cove, Lakewood Beach, Opechee Shores Stonecrest Condominium, Wildwood Village and Old North Main Village.
In conclusion, we have seen a continual increase, year after year, in the demand for water access properties. Because of the large demographic moving up from the southern states, everyone is looking for the waterfront experience. Visit www.s21794.p694.sites.pressdns.com and click onto Communities to learn more!
