This seems to be oldest, and probably the most important question people ask themselves about Real Estate in general. It is no different here on Lake Hartwell. This question seems simple, but the answer can get very complex depending on who you ask. Let me start by pointing out a fact about the Lake Hartwell Real Estate Market as we know it today. The most obvious, is the water level. The lake is down almost 13 feet today which means that it is not as ascetically pleasing as it was at full pool. This also means that property that sold when the lake was full that had about 10 feet of water at the end of the dock, now has no water. What is amazing to me, is that today you can see exactly what the water situation is and will be in the future.
By looking at property when the lake is down, you can see several things. The first being the water that is there now. Is there any? If there is then how deep is it? If you have water now, imagine how much you will have when the lake is back up again. Something else to look for would be obstructions (stumps, trees, old bridges). When the lake is full if you are not working with an experienced Realtor, or if you are buying a "FSBO", these things have a tendency to get overlooked or not mentioned. Today, you can see for yourself exactly what the area where your children will be swimming and boating looks like.
My answer to the question "When is a good time to buy?" is very simple. Now. When will you have the opportunity to take such a close look at the property you are interested in again (we have a drought every 10 years or so, so I guess you could wait)? Couple that with interest rates being historically low and you have the perfect time to buy.
If you have any questions, comments, or would like more information on the Lake Hartwell Real Estate Market please visit my website at http://www.andersonsonthelake.com/.
Jonathan Anderson
