Tennessee Lakes Archives

Lake Homes Realty Adds Heather Leslie to Dale Hollow Lake and Cordell Hull Lake Areas in TN

Posted on July 24, 2023July 25, 2023 Linda Thach

A recent lake real estate report from the country’s largest lake-focused brokerage show listing prices in Tennessee are up over summer 2022. “The new Lake Real Estate Market Report from Lake Homes Realty shows Tennessee’s total market at $2.32 billion, up from $1.85 billion in the summer of 2022,” said Heather Leslie, an agent with Lake Homes Realty, who focuses on Dale Hollow Lake, Cordell Hull Lake and the surrounding lakes in Tennessee. Lake Homes Realty operates in 34 states across the country.

“The specialized website just showcases properties that are lakefront, have a lake view or lake access so we can help clients from across the country search for dream lake properties.” As of May 31, 2023, Dale Hollow Lake has 128 lake area properties listed, ranging from a $20,000 lot to a $ 14-million lake home. “Four of the properties were listed for over $1 million,” said Leslie.

The average home price for listings around Dale Hollow Lake is $893,235, according to the Lake Market Real Estate Report. The average lot price is $103,762 for the 100 lake area lots currently listed.

“With 12,000 acres of water, boating is extremely popular on Cordell Hull Lake, as are its related activities, waterskiing, tubing, and wakeboarding,” said Leslie. “Being a short trip away from the state’s capital Nashville, Cordell Hull Lake appeals to lake home searchers from across the country. Among the hundreds of people searching the lake homes and lots in Tennessee in May 2023, the top Metro area looking on LakeHomes.com was Chicago, followed by Atlanta and Washington D.C.,” said Leslie. “ The national reach offered by LakeHomes.com works really well with my local expertise along Cordell Hull Lake and the surrounding area,” said Leslie. One in 37 American adults look at LakeHomes.com each year.

“We believe our agents’ intimate knowledge about their lake real estate markets, nuances of the lakes themselves, and their involvement in local lake life is paramount to our continued growth,” said Glenn S. Phillips, CEO and Chief Economic Analyst for Lake Homes “Heather offers outstanding customer service in the Dale Hollow Lake, Cordell Hull Lake and surrounding areas and is truly a specialist in that area,” he said.

About Heather Leslie

Heather Leslie‘s lake life journey began when she relocated to Sparta, Tennessee at the age of 13, and ever since, she has been devoted to enjoying the serene waters of Dale Hollow Lake, Old Hickory Lake, and Watauga Lake. Now, Heather has passed down her profound affection for the lakes to her children, and together, they relish in memorable lake days as a family.

Heather’s commitment as a lake expert extends beyond her personal enjoyment of the lakes. She has dedicated herself to becoming a valuable member of the local community. Exploring the neighboring areas of the lakes, attending local events, and frequently visiting downtown Murfreesboro, Tennessee, are all integral parts of her connection with the region. Nevertheless, if Heather is not engaged in these activities, you can bet she’ll be found by the water’s edge, whether it’s spending a day fishing with her children or showcasing breathtaking lake properties.

Her exceptional expertise in the real estate field has been acknowledged by her consistent success. Heather has been honored with the Aqua award at Lake Homes Realty, a testament to her exceptional sales performance. Additionally, prior to her venture into real estate, she gained invaluable experience in customer service. This background has instilled in her an unwavering dedication to prioritizing the customer’s needs and ensuring a seamless transaction for each client she serves.

Helpful Guide to House Hunting at Watauga Lake

Posted on February 8, 2021February 4, 2021 Camille Smith

When you’re house hunting in a specific lake area, there’s a lot to consider before making a down payment. One of these factors is the area itself. Since many people purchase lake houses in a different state, it’s likely you won’t be completely familiar with the location. As such, it’s a good idea to visit, check out the scenery, and explore local restaurants. Essentially, you’re test-driving life as a resident.

If you’re house hunting at Watauga Lake specifically, we have some advice for you. Located just east of Elizabethton, Tennessee, this reservoir was created by the Tennessee Valley Authority after the Watauga Dam’s installment in 1948. With abundant water recreation and the beautiful nearby Cherokee National Forest, there’s a lot to discover here. Check out our recommendations for your house hunting trip at Watauga Lake.

Stay at an Airbnb

One of the best ways to house hunt is to spend time in the lake area. An easy way to do this is by renting a cabin near the Watauga Lake listing you’re interested in buying. On Airbnb, hosts offer rental opportunities for guests to stay at their home. More personalized than a hotel, this popular booking platform allows you to see the surrounding area like the locals do.

At Watauga Lake, this Airbnb listing is hosted by Deborah Short Taylor, a Lake Homes Realty agent. Equipped with a full kitchen, dining space, and multiple bedrooms, there’s no better place to relax while enjoying stunning views of the Appalachian Trail. For your next stay, you can browse other Airbnb listings on Watauga Lake as well.

Explore Local Restaurants

Another excellent house-hunting venture is to explore local restaurants. Food is one of the best ways to become familiar with the local culture. When indoor dining comes back after the pandemic, it’ll also be a chance to chat with locals.

In Elizabethton, just 45 minutes from Watauga Lake, check out Rico’s Pizza and Subs for casual dining, Mayflower for seafood, and Jiggy Ray’s for pizza and nightlife. Another nearby town is Butler, Tennessee, located a short 20-minute drive from the lake. For seafood dining with beautiful views, book a reservation at Captain’s Table. Then, explore Shirley’s for a home-cooked meal or Butler Trading Post for a relaxing dining experience with subs, specialty pizzas, and other delicious items.

Take a Hiking Trip

Photo courtesy of Smoky Mountain National Park.

Most of Watauga Lake’s shoreline lies within the Cherokee National Forest. Because the U.S. department of agriculture protects the forest, it cannot be developed. As such, the hiking opportunities are abundant, as are recreation centers such as Backbone Rock. While house hunting, it’s a great idea to check out the natural scenery.

Outside the national forest, one of the most popular trails in the area is the Great Hike to Laurel Falls. This 80-foot waterfall earned its name from the plethora of mountain laurel shrubs in the Smoky Mountains. Of course, one of the most famous trail sites is the nearby Appalachian. The best part about this trail is that you can tailor your route to your skill level. For example, the path by Osborne Farm is an easy 1.5 level walk. If you’re a more intense hiker, you can traverse over 1800 miles through the woods.

If you’d rather bike than hike, the Virginia Creeper Trail is a perfect destination. This gorgeous trail takes you through farmland, forests, streams, and Christmas tree farms.

Check out the Fishing Scene

If you’re an avid angler, you’ll want to check out the fishing scene while house hunting. Lucky for those on Watauga Lake, there’s plenty of fishing. For instance, Blue Hole Falls in Elizabethton is a swimming and fishing hole with nearby picnic areas. Located in Elizabethton as well, Sycamore Shoals State Historic Park doubles as a picnic and fishing site. It’s also the site of several important historical events from the 1700s. While you’re on the water, you can check out the other popular water sports. In non-pandemic times, Watauga Kayak offers guided white-water rafting and kayak tours for you and your family.

We wish you the best with your house-hunting trip to Watauga Lake!

Tellico Village: A Retirement Paradise in Tennessee

Posted on September 12, 2020August 2, 2022 Camille Smith

Photo courtesy of Berkshire Hathaway Home Services Lakeside Realty via Tellico Village – VisitLoudonCounty.com.

If you’re looking to retire on the lake, there’s likely a thousand questions running through your mind. Is this lake close enough to a hospital? Is the community close-knit? On many lakes, you may have to compromise one value for another. However, Tellico Village, a 5,000-acre resort for seniors on Tellico Lake, might have it all.

With several high-quality amenities, including its status as a top waterfront and golfing community in the southeast, it’s a fantastic place to live. The thriving community with three recreation centers, peaceful landscape, and proximity to Knoxville make it especially ideal for retirees. To learn more about what makes Tellico Village special, we talked with Lake Homes Realty agent Karen Packett and retirees currently living in the neighborhood. According to these lake residents, here’s what makes Tellico Village a retirement paradise.

Relaxing Environment

Situated at the foothills of the Smoky Mountains, Tellico Village is surrounded by stunning views. The adjacent forests are largely uninterrupted, leaving tranquil hiking paths for residents. Dave Morse, Tellico Village resident, and retiree, says a peaceful location was his top priority in picking a lake. “It’s an absolutely beautiful area, and sitting here and looking at the lake is wonderful. I have my boat that I’ll be parking right here and go for a ride anytime I want.” Besides natural beauty, the laid-back golfing lifestyle draws lots of residents to the community. With three premium golf courses and fun golf leagues for residents to join, this sport is a crucial part of the relaxed lifestyle at Tellico Village.

Inexpensive Costs

Photo courtesy of Crowne Plaza Knoxville.

Mark Richer, another Tellico Village resident, and retiree, says that a primary selling point for him is Tennessee’s lack of state income tax. Further, property taxes are 50% lower than his previous home state. These factors provide him with financial security so he can focus energy on golfing and boating. Karen Packett adds that within Tennessee, “Loudon and Monroe counties have some of the lowest property taxes in the eastern area.” These stunningly low costs make Tellico Village highly affordable.

Warm Weather

East Tennessee has a mild, four seasons climate. Specifically, around the upcoming fall season, Tellico Village residents can enjoy the foliage while enjoying the crisp air. Winters are short, and temperatures rarely drop below 20 degrees Fahrenheit. Mark Richer says that he moved to Tennessee from the Lake Michigan area for warmer weather and less snow. In retirement, he has more time to enjoy the mild climate and explore the lake. “Here, the lake is so big that you’d have to work hard to see the same thing twice,” he says, “I’m looking forward to driving my boat to Tennessee football games.” Mark and other Tellico Village residents have more months out of the year for quality lake time with the local warmer weather.

There are about a thousand ways to get involved at Tellico Village. Residents can choose from over 200 clubs, ranging from quilting to motorcycle riding, and get to know other retirees. If you’ve just moved in, the “New Villagers Club” facilitates social connections between new residents. Given the village’s active lifestyle, it’s no wonder that Ideal Living Magazine gave Tellico Village the award of 2016’s “Best Social Calendars.”

Not only do residents rave about the myriad of clubs, but also about the friendships they’ve made. “The residents are truly some of the friendliest, nicest, and caring people I know,” says Karen Packett. “There is a wonderful diversity of income and race in Tellico Village. No one pays much attention to what you did before retirement; they just want to know how you want to have fun!”

Urban Proximity

World’s Fair Park, Knoxville, TN – TNVacation.com.

Tellico Village is truly the best of both worlds — remote enough for natural landscapes, but close enough to an urban area for city amenities. The village is less than a 45-minute drive from the Knoxville Airport, Downtown Metro Knoxville, and Turkey Creek, an upscale shopping area. The area is also home to the University of Tennessee. Football fans living at Tellico Village can easily travel to college sporting events. The proximity of the university provides superior healthcare as well. Residents who need ongoing medical care can find providers at UT Medical Center; a top-ranked hospital. Overall, Knoxville has a fun downtown scene with restaurants, antique shopping, and an art museum. What’s not to love?

At Lake Homes Realty, you’ll find agents with local expertise and national connections. Talk with one of our knowledgeable local agents like Karen Packett, to find your dream retirement location on the lake!

Dog-Friendly Hiking Trails Around Chattanooga, TN

Posted on May 14, 2020May 7, 2020 Mary Walters

Photo courtesy of RootsRated.com via Logan Foll.

There’s nothing like taking to the trails to enjoy the thrill of a hike with beautiful lakeside views, but why not make it more special by bringing your favorite companion along for the walk? For dog-lovers all around, it may be difficult to find spots for adventure with your four-legged friend, so we’ve done the work for you! Chattanooga, Tennessee, has some sweet hidden treasures for you and your pup. Thanks to the proximity of numerous lakes, national forests, and historical spots, there’s a variety of options for a nice walk by the water. Check out some trail options to enjoy today!

Chester Frost Park

Our first trail highlight is Chester Frost Park, located right on Lake Chickamauga. This spot is perfect if you and your dog are beginning to go on outdoor adventures together. Chester Frost Park is a great spot to explore the outdoors and enjoy the historical significance of Chattanooga. There is a rich history tied into this park, including Jackson Chapel Cemetery, the first and oldest cemetery in the county. This park has various amenities, including a beach area off Dallas Bay, but unfortunately, you would have to enjoy the beach spot without your pup. Regardless, there are still amazing trails to choose from with great lake views. For hiking maps and more directions, check out their trail guides.

Cloudland Canyon State Park

A little further south of the city, just about 20 minutes from Nickajack Lake, is Cloudland Canyon State Park that houses beautiful woodlands, cliffs, deep canyons, and amazing waterfalls. This park provides a variety of trails for you and your pet ranging from short to moderate and strenuous. The peak in this park is 1980 feet providing an amazing overlook. This option would be great for those dogs that are trained and ready for a more rigorous hiking experience. It is required to keep your pet on a leash as there are steep ledges and cliffs along this walk. Your pet must be restricted to the trails as the park doesn’t allow access to other areas of the park. Visit their site for more information and trail guides. At this time, trail access is limited to 10 hikers at a time.

Enterprise South Nature Park

Another great park to bring your pet along to is Enterprise South Nature Park. With over 2,600 acres of land, this park has a variety of trails featuring mostly moderate hills. We suggest this option if you and your pup are looking for a slightly more rigorous outdoor experience. You will also find a little secluded lake during your walk and a beautiful view of the water. Enterprise South Nature Park is a hidden gem where you will find few crowds compared to other parks in the Chattanooga area. This option will be great for both you and your four-legged companion to enjoy.

There are other options available in this area to visit with your pet. Check bringfido.com for other outdoor excursions. Whichever adventure you may choose for you and your furry friend, you are sure to have a great time in the Chattanooga area.

Most Affordable Lake Areas to Call Home

Posted on April 30, 2020April 16, 2020 Camille Smith

As any lake lover would agree, owning a lake home is a dream come true. Surrounded by serene nature, a plethora of outdoor activities and a carefree atmosphere, a lake environment is certainly an ideal place to call home. However, many people who dream of owning a lake house might write it off as an impossible fantasy– one that’s only possible once you’ve achieved a certain level of wealth. While this may be true in an expensive lake area, there are several lake regions in the U.S. that are both thriving and affordable. Check out five lake areas with lake homes listings that have been included in the top 10 most affordable lake areas in the country.

Branson, MO (Table Rock Lake & Lake Taneycomo)

Table Rock Lake, MO
Photo courtesy of wanderthemap.com.

Buyers at one of these two lakes in the Branson, MO area, can find their dream home for a median price of 205,900. If you choose to settle in at Table Rock Lake, you can enjoy water skiing and paddle boarding along this large lake with 750 miles of shoreline. If you enjoy trout fishing, you might make Lake Taneycomo your home, as this lake is known for large trout populations in its clear waters. In the general region, Branson is known for the Silver Dollar Theme Park, where you can enjoy both roller coaster rides and bluegrass music.

Mountain Home, AR (Lake Norfolk & Bull Shoals Lake)

Mountain Home, AR
Photo courtesy of nearsay.com.

If you’re less interested in theme parks and instead, you’re seeking a quiet and peaceful atmosphere, you’ll want to look at Lake Norfolk or Bull Shoals Lake in Mountain Home, AR, where the median home price is $174,900. At both of these man-made bodies of water, lakeside dwellers can enjoy scuba diving, fishing, and boating. There’s also plenty of opportunities to go camping nearby. With the open space and smaller crowds, you’ll be able to enjoy nature in an undisturbed way.

Jamestown, NY (Chautauqua Lake)

Chautauqua Lake is included in Lake Home Realty’s top 10 real estate areas in the state of New York– and with good reason. Near Lake Erie, it’s recognized for its swimming beaches, boating, and fishing opportunities. There’s also an attractive comedy scene in Jamestown, NY. This town hosts the Annual Lucille Ball Comedy Festival (Jamestown is Lucille Ball’s hometown) and claims the interactive humor museum called the National Comedy Center. For both a good swim and a good laugh, look no further than Chautauqua Lake, where the median home price is $59,900.

Sevierville, TN (Douglas Lake)

Lucille Ball isn’t the only famous name that’s represented among these affordable lakes — Sevierville, TN is the hometown of Dolly Parton, the irreplicable country music legend. This area is also known for Douglas Lake, which has a reputation for good largemouth bass and crappie fishing. This lake also neighbors the Smoky Mountains near Gatlinburg, Tennessee — an area with mountain views and pancake shops that draw many tourists each year. Here, the median listing price is $252,500.

Each of these lake areas truly offers the best of both worlds — a combination of exciting lakeside activities and affordable prices. If you’re looking for a bargain price, we hope you check out one of these markets!

More than Just Music: Spotlight on the Muscle Shoals Lakes

Posted on November 8, 2019November 6, 2019 Camille Smith

Photos courtesy of The Bluegrass Situation and Instagram.

Just along the Tennessee River in Colbert County rests a historic, charming area called Muscle Shoals. Even if you’ve never been there, you’ve certainly heard of it. There’s that lyric in the song “Sweet Home Alabama” – “Muscle Shoals has got the Swampers, and they’ve been known to pick a song or two” – referring to the Muscle Shoals Rhythm Section, a legendary recording studio house band in the 1960s and 70s. You may have also heard of FAME Recording Studios or the birthplace of Helen Keller in nearby Tuscumbia.

Regardless of what you know about it, there’s a wealth of historical sites and activities to love about Muscle Shoals. Beyond those famous notes, this legendary area is bordered by three major lakes: Wilson Lake, Wheeler Lake, and Pickwick Lake. The Tennessee River feeds each lake, giving you both the excitement of the famous town and the serenity of local lake life. If you’re already interested, you can browse listings on each of these lakes on our website. Whether you choose to vacation or live full time on one of these lakes, you’re sure to find plenty of exciting compliments to lake life that Muscle Shoals has to offer.

What Makes it Interesting

Rick Hall, right, with R&B singer Etta James and musicians Marvell Thomas and David Hood during a 1967 rehearsal at Fame Studios in Muscle Shoals, Alabama. — *Photo courtesy of* *DailyYonder*.

Because of its crucial waterside location along the Tennessee River, the Shoals area was originally a significant location for Native Americans, particularly the Cherokee tribe, for thousands of years. This proximity to a body of water later made Muscle Shoals a site for the Tennessee Valley Authority’s construction of several dams under Franklin D. Roosevelt. In 1966, the U.S. government declared Wilson Dam, located in the Shoals area, a National Historic Landmark. However, this area’s intrigue doesn’t end with the nearby river. Muscle Shoals also happens to have a legendary place in music history. Home to the iconic “Muscle Shoals sound,” Rick Hall’s FAME Studios went from being a studio in an old warehouse to a destination for musicians and songwriters to record their hits. Songs like those by Percy Sledge “When a Man Loves a Woman” and “Tell Mama” by Etta James are just some among so many that were recorded here.

What to Do There

Crowd watching W.C. Handy Music Festival at Florence, Alabama — *Photo courtesy of* *WNIN*.

If you’re interested in all the fascinating music history of Muscle Shoals, try booking a tour at FAME Recording Studios and see the sound booths where famous artists like Aretha Franklin recorded. After your tour, you may want to stop by Stanfield’s Steakhouse for some delicious steak, hush puppies, and popcorn shrimp. If you enjoy golfing as a pastime, we recommend checking out the Robert Trent Jones golf trail, which attracts golfers from across the country each year. Want to explore some of the neighboring towns while you’re out and about? Drive about 20 minutes to find the sister city of Florence, Alabama— an up-and-coming city with a bustling downtown scene. Each year, they host the W.C. Handy music festival, and you can go visit the lion mascots at the University of North Alabama’s campus. On the way over, you can also drive by the Rosenbaum House designed by Frank Lloyd Wright.

Life on the Lake

Group of people kayaking on Wheeler Lake — *Photo courtesy of* *The News Courier*.

One of the most exciting parts about life in Muscle Shoals is the bodies of water that surround it. The Shoals area is bordered by three major lakes—Wilson Lake, Wheeler Lake, and Pickwick Lake. If you’re looking to buy a lake house in the area, you can look forward to mild winters where temperatures rarely get below 50 degrees as well as warm 90 degree summers, perfect for taking the boat and water skis out for a spin. This time of year, you’ll get that crisp, fall air that’s perfect for hosting guests around your outdoor fire pits. Further, if you enjoy fishing on the lake and you’re looking to reel in a largemouth bass or catfish, you’re in luck. Wilson and Pickwick lakes are well-known popular fishing destinations thanks to the combination of a natural river and man-made dams. Whether it’s fishing, jet skiing, swimming, kayaking, or just sitting on your dock admiring the sun’s reflection on the water, there’s a place for your chosen activity on a lake in Muscle Shoals.

A fusion of interesting history and a relaxing lake life, you truly can have it all in Muscle Shoals. Take a browse to find your dream lake house today in this Northern Alabama gem of a town.

You Know You’re From Fort Loudoun Lake When

Posted on May 11, 2016September 22, 2020 Staff

Located in East Tennessee on the upper Tennessee River, Fort Loudoun Lake stretches across 14,600 acres.

The lake takes its name from the nearby site of a British fort built in 1756. The fort was named for Scotsman, John Campbell, the fourth Earl of Loudoun, who was commander of British Forces in North America at the time.

Fort Loudoun Lake possesses strong ties to its rich history, extending back to the French and Indian War, when its namesake fort was one of the few British outposts west of the Appalachian Mountains.

Today, the lake is a major recreation destination for East Tennessee residents and out-of-state visitors but for you…Fort Loudoun Lake is simply home.

Your social life is merely a boat ride away

The best part about living on Fort Loudoun? Driving a car to get places isn’t the norm. Finding the social hub of the lake is, instead, only a short boat-ride away.

Prater’s Flat, the “party cove,” is THE place to be on a sunny weekend.

Hundreds of boats gather, tie up and enjoy the best of what lake life has to offer. After the sun sets, you love that you can get to most restaurants by boat.

Restaurants like Calhoun’s, Willie’s and Lakeside Tavern, for a more upscale night out, are a few of your favorites.

Two Words: Tennessee. Volunteers

Because of Fort Loudoun’s proximity to Knoxville, you know you are in the best position to cheer on the best team in the SEC.

Neyland Stadium, one of only two college football venues accessible by boat, makes “Vol’s Navy” one of your, and all of college football’s, most beloved traditions.

Inspired by Volunteers’ broadcaster George Mooney, Vol’s Navy is a fleet of some 200 vessels of all sizes, whose passengers watch the game from monster TVs on their tricked-out boats.

Game Day is made even more special on the water with family and friends.

At Fort Loudoun, boats rule the world

Fort Loudon Lake is a particularly boat-centric lake.

Throughout the year, festivals and fishing tournaments are accessed and enjoyed on boats.

Friends and family gather to cheer the competitors in the Dragon boat races, and locals love supporting the Concord Sailing Club, based out of Knoxville.

And on holidays? What’s better than gathering friends and family for Rockin’ The Docks, an elaborate fireworks display, on the Fourth of July, Memorial Day and Labor Day?

The event, held in Lenior City Park, is also well attended by boat just off the shoreline.

The entire Southeast is at your disposal

One of the greatest things about this body of water would have to be its convenient location in East Tennessee.

Nestled just west of Knoxville, Fort Loudoun Lake is a straight shot to major cities like Atlanta, Nashville and Charlotte.

Favorite band playing in Atlanta? No problem. The lake is only a couple hours away from civilization, and the best part is that you always get to come home to the peaceful waters of this lake.

Most beautiful sunsets in the southeast

Known for its picturesque views, its no surprise that Fort Loudoun Lake is home to some of the most exquisite sunsets in the region.

While you’re waiting for the sun to set, you like to keep an eye out for bald eagle and osprey sightings.

With a perfect location, rich culture and undeniable beauty, Fort Loudoun Lake is an excellent choice for a weekend retreat or a permanent residence.

At 535 listings and counting, there is sure to be something for everyone on Fort Loudoun Lake. Homes range anywhere from $100,000 to $5,000,000.

For more information, visit lakehomes.com.