What to Know About Buying your Lake Wedowee Home
Buying property on Lake Wedowee can be a breeze or it can be a daunting task that will drive you batty. There are numerous decisions to consider. When I was a licensed agent many moons ago, the number one thing people told me they want was year round water. Well, what does that phrase mean to them. Do they want access to the lake by boat year round or do they want to see lake water year round. Personally I am not getting in the lake in January (even though I have jumped in one time in March).
Another big question... paved roads or dirt roads, we have both around the lake. Some people value the distance to town and other amenities while others want all the seclusion they can afford. Bottom line Lake Wedowee has lots of choices to consider when buying property. And one of the most important things to remember is that Alabama is a buyer beware state, one of the last remaining in the nation. It means when a person buys real estate in this state, they need to fully understand it is their responsibility to make sure they know what they’re getting, that it’s in good condition and works properly.
To learn more about what to consider when buying real estate around Lake Wedowee, Lake Wedowee Life asked Crystal Barnes with Hunter Bend Realty as well as Gene Crouch with Crouch Team Realty and Christie Hayes with the Hayes Team (both affiliated with Keller Williams Realty, a franchise company) their thoughts on what to consider when purchasing.
Crystal Barnes with Hunter Bend Realty
hunterbend.com
I start with buyers asking them what’s most important to them. There are many aspects to consider, things like:
Location — what’s important, where do you want to be close to, by road or by boat? You can drive half an hour somewhere that might take you 10 minutes by boat.
Water depth on the lake, do they want year round water?
There are many homes on coves that get really shallow from November to April.
Water quality and clarity of the lake, do they want to be in a river or out in the open on the lake?
The rivers and the big water affect both water quality and clarity.
How do they feel about dirt roads? Do they want to help maintain those dirt roads?
Many county roads only get maintained so often and as such the owners pitch in to work on the roads together. Many neighborhoods decide to pave or maintain their own roads.
Do they want to be on well water or county water?
Both are options around the lake, it just depends on the area.
Do they need natural gas?
There are only two communities with natural gas, so if that is important, those options will be limited.
How do they feel about the slope to the water? Do they want a lot of steps or none?
There are steep slopes with stairs and paths and there are flat lots that walk right out to the water.
Are they aware of how the Lineville side of the lake is completely different from the Wedowee side?
In some respects the two areas look like two different lakes!
These are all aspects for buyers to factor in when going into the decision to buy here in Wedowee.
Christie Hayes, The Hayes Team
chayeshomes.com
Buyers searching for a home here in Wedowee need to make sure they have buyer's representation. Buying in Alabama is a little different than in most other states and it really pays for the buyer to have a licensed Realtor to work with them every step of the way.
When looking for a Realtor, you want someone that knows the lake and can be available to answer any questions. I have had a home on the lake since my girls were little. My husband and I moved here full time during the pandemic and we are on the lake all year.
It’s also important the buyer understands the condition of the lake and the surrounding area. There are no properties alike here. So many things go in to the “perfect purchase” for a buyer and having an agent that knows the area can drill down to what the buyer must have and what they don’t. Some of the things to consider include: understanding water levels, property access, and shoreline regulations, as well as knowing the potential for seasonal fluctuations in the lake’s water levels. Additionally, buyers should be aware of zoning laws, dock permits, and any maintenance requirements for properties located near the water.
Gene Crouch with Crouch Team Realty
wedoweelakehomes.com
What I always try to do when working with buyers is to educate them on the lake. The differences between the Little Tallapoosa and Big Tallapoosa and the south end are important to be aware of.
Second, I listen to the buyers. What are they really looking for?
Third and most importantly is helping them understand when buying a lake home the one thing they cannot change is the characteristics of the lot. Buyers can remodel the house, do additions, etc. but you can't change the lot. So then buy the best lot you can afford.
The other important factor is for the buyers and sellers to use local agents. We know the market and the ins and outs of the Lake. Knowledge is key!
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