Ever thought about a house by the water? Waterfront properties nearby seem to be really popular these days, and it's totally easy to see why. Places like Lake Lanier have this peaceful tone around their edges, while the Chattahoochee River flows gently beside them. You might find that snagging a waterside home is a whole lot easier than you might think.

Away from the impressive views, living by the water in Atlanta lets you to either kick back or stay active. If you're into kayaking, playing golf by the lake, or just want to enjoy a leisurely picnic by the water, these wonderful places make every day a little bit more fun. Besides, a quick drive can whisk you away to Atlanta's busy city life which has its own handful of shops and eateries.

A lot of people really appreciate the mix of urban energy and easy waterside living - an incredible 67% of homeowners say that living near water really helps in reducing their stress levels!

Let's talk about some of the great waterfront properties that are located around Atlanta - these homes have both the luxury and the relaxed lifestyle you're looking for!

Lake Lanier Properties

Lake Lanier, which is situated just an hour north of Atlanta, is a prime spot if you want waterfront properties. The area has a number of cozy family homes, attractive condos, and large luxury estates, and it has options for everyone, no matter what your budget might be.

When it comes to home prices at Lake Lanier, they can really cost a lot. You might pay around $300,000 for an easier spot, but spending more than $1,000,000 will bring you into the space of luxury living. In this luxury category, the homes are usually newer or meticulously maintained and have fabulous outdoor spaces that are great for enjoying the lakeside atmosphere.

Are you interested in outdoor activities? Lake Lanier has a lot of opportunities for boating, fishing, and a number of water sports. It's awesome if you love staying active! Besides, being this close to Atlanta means you can enjoy a quiet setting without missing out on the busy city life.

Are you thinking of buying here? It's very important to understand the local regulations concerning building in the area, from how you can construct your home to how you set up docks. If you keep up with these rules, you'll be all set to start enjoying your new property without any headaches.

Looking ahead to 2024, this is a promising year for the real estate scene around Lake Lanier. Having looked at a few property listings, it seems like things could stabilize a bit. Expect to see about a 36% increase in sales over last year, with luxury homes, which have an average size of 3,692 square feet, which makes up nearly half of all transactions. With the latest market patterns, properties are usually bought within about 68 days on average.

Lake Oconee Estates

Lake Oconee, which is situated only about 60 miles from Atlanta, covers a total of 19,000 acres and has 374 miles of shoreline, which spans Greene, Morgan, and Putnam counties. Currently, there are around 410 homes and 170 lots on the market. This availability really makes the dream of waterfront living near a big city attainable. The nearby towns of Eatonton, Greensboro, and Madison definitely add to the scenic beauty of the area. With many listings on Zillow and Realtor.com, you'll find it super easy to pick one that fits you.

Properties at Lake Oconee cater to a number of preferences, from large luxury estates to quaint cottages, which makes it a good choice for almost all kinds of budgets. If you want a main home, a vacation getaway, or an investment opportunity, there is surely something for everyone here. Prices are usually based on location, size, and amenities, but you should note that waterfront properties are often a bit pricier.

Golfers will find a few courses designed by famous architects. Well-equipped marinas really help in boating and fishing adventures. The local culture and community events create a close-knit atmosphere that is really rare to find.

The natural beauty here is a big draw! This is a place where you can relax, enjoy the fresh air, and engage in many outdoor activities, all of which really help with your quality of life. Community-specific rules help preserve this natural beauty and manage development, which keeps the area attractive and improves its investment potential.

I find that buyers choose Lake Oconee for the high-quality views, the sense of privacy, and the excellent local amenities. The community's attention to environmental preservation and recreational activities will make sure the area remains attractive to potential new residents. The number of housing options and the benefits of lakeside living make Lake Oconee a great spot for those looking for a peaceful escape close to Atlanta, and it's a place where they can really grow!

Homes Near the Chattahoochee River

Lake Lanier and Lake Oconee have two great but different options if you're thinking about buying waterfront property near Atlanta. Are you wondering which one fits your needs best? Let's talk about the details together, and hopefully, we can figure it out.

Lake Lanier, which is located just about an hour north of Atlanta, has over 692 miles of shoreline, which alone makes it a real hotspot for activities like boating and fishing. You can even find some championship golf habitat nearby. If you want a number of waterfront properties, Lake Lanier has a wide range of luxury estates and cozy little cabins. Also, Lake Lanier is equipped with amenities like marinas and water sports rentals, which makes Lake Lanier an excellent choice if you're interested in an active and community-rich lifestyle.

On the other hand, Lake Oconee is about an hour and a half east of Atlanta. It gives a quieter environment that's great for unwinding. Its stable water levels and less crowded atmosphere are great if you want some much-needed relaxation. The lake is also well-known for its impressive golf courses - a few of which are PGA-recognized, and it supports a scenic and peaceful lifestyle that is really pretty inviting. Homes around Lake Oconee usually come with a bit more land and have much more privacy, but they can be a bit pricier, which is something to keep in mind.

So, what do you think? Are you leaning more toward the active community at Lake Lanier? Do you find the peaceful solitude at Lake Oconee more to your liking? Both lakes have their own unique benefits that could sway your decision in their own way.

Each lake has its own beauty, which might make you lean one way or another. Lake Lanier, with its inviting setting and many activities, could be just the right place if you're looking for fun and excitement! On the other hand, Lake Oconee is all about calm and quiet, which is excellent if you're hoping for a little peace and some time to relax.

From what I've seen, the decision really depends on what type of environment you think best fits your style. They both have outstanding features, but it all finally comes down to what feels right for you and will make you happiest!

How Affordable Are Waterfront Properties?

When you're looking at waterfront properties near Atlanta, you might find yourself wondering if the prices are fair, or maybe they're a little too steep. You could be asking yourself if some areas are more expensive than others. Well, I want us to take a look at the costs around nearby places like Lake Lanier, Lake Oconee, and along the Chattahoochee River.

When you think about Lake Lanier, which is very popular, you notice that it gives easy access to water. This might be the reason it draws so many people. There are a handful of prices for waterfront homes. Properties range from about $325,000 to over $1 million. This means there's something for almost everyone. But keep in mind that the top features and best places will naturally cost you more.

Now, let's talk about Lake Oconee. This area usually has higher prices compared to Lake Lanier, with the median price usually around $825,000. It is known for its quiet, relaxing atmosphere and scenic views, which are just some of the benefits. I sometimes ask myself if the extra peace and beauty are worth stretching your budget for!

Next, let's think about the Chattahoochee River. Here, the prices are basically a lot depending on how close you're to city amenities and the type of water access you have. Homes here might cost you anywhere from $300,000 to $1.5 million. This variation really depends on the location and modernity of the property.

When you think about financing for a waterfront home, it's important to think about the long-term value. Even with the high initial costs, waterfront properties usually increase in value, which could make your investment pay off down the line. It's a good idea to talk with a financial advisor who knows a lot about real estate, especially waterfront properties. They can really help with planning your finances to cover upfront costs and also help you understand your investment's potential.

But, with some smart financial planning and a careful look at the market, you can turn that premium into a worthwhile investment. What's most important to you in a waterfront, for me, is to think about if it's the quiet of a peaceful lake, the luxury of high-end living, or maybe the unique setting of a river. Let your personal preferences guide your choice, balancing the price with what you value the most.

Remember, most waterfront property owners feel the water view was worth every penny they spent!

The Legal Factors

Handling the legal side of buying waterfront property in Georgia means you will deal with a lot of regulations, especially if you plan to build or make some changes near the water. It is really important to make sure that your property complies with all the state and federal laws.

When you buy waterfront property, there is a need to think about the type of water body involved. For navigable streams, you usually own the land up to the low-water mark. Beyond this point, the stream bed is public and lets others access it. Any building or recreational activities in the area might need a few extra inspections and permits, which you should keep in mind.

If you're looking to install a private dock for some fun and recreation, you have to follow some pretty strict rules. You have to engage in the Individual Permit (IP) process. During this process, you have to submit complete plans to the Atlanta Coastal Resources Planner and the UHR Army Corps of Engineers in the Savannah District Office.

They will conduct a full review to make sure any new structures are environmentally safe and do not disrupt the water.

If you plan to lease underwater land for big marina projects, like those with more than 500 linear feet of docking area, you will need a lease from the Coastal Marshlands Protection Committee. The lease is determined by the property's fair market value. These leases are super important for any major developments by the water.

Also, for projects that change marshes and tidal waters, like community docks, dredging, or even some types of landscaping near the shore, you need a permit under the Coastal Marshlands Protection Act. Besides, if you're working on beach renovations or installing some rock barriers, you have to apply for a Shore Permit Application (SPA).

These rules help keep the beauty and ecological health of Georgia's waterfronts. It is always a bright idea to consult with a real estate and environmental law expert. Local real estate groups or environmental law offices can give you really helpful advice and make the process a lot easier.This will make sure that your waterfront property venture is legally and environmentally secure.

Did you know that over 30% of waterfront property transactions in Georgia are delayed because of permitting issues? Keep this in mind when you're thinking about this type of investment!

Thinking of Moving to Atlanta?

Living near the water in Atlanta gives high-quality views and a top-tier address and also has much more. Imagine a life where you can relax peacefully, engage in fun outdoor activities, and feel really connected to nature, all while you're only a short drive from the beautiful life of downtown, without having to leave the peace and serenity of your neighborhood.

Finding the right real estate partner is important. Can you imagine yourself relaxing by the lake or maybe even hosting some really unforgettable parties by the river? If you have ever dreamed of having this kind of lifestyle, you absolutely need someone who really understands the market. This person can help hold your hand and guide you through every little step of the process!

The Justin Landis Group can definitely help you here. Are you thinking about making this beautiful community your new home? To really understand what makes Atlanta special, you need an expert by your side. Contact us today and let's find that dream home together!

Don't just buy property - invest in a future that looks bright!