This is Lake Anna

Back in the day.

Picture this: back in the day, there was this grand plan to create a super cool lake in central Virginia. This wasn't just any lake; it was a man-made masterpiece! In 1968, around 18,000 acres of land were snatched up by the Virginia Electric and Power Company, better known as VEPCO, with a vision to generate electricity. These folks had a bright idea: they wanted to build a gigantic reservoir to cool down their North Anna Nuclear Generating Station and support the North Anna Nuclear Power Plant. So, they did what any ambitious project would involve – they dammed up the North Anna River. Bam! Just like that, Lake Anna was born in the early 1970s. Lake Anna is one of the largest freshwater inland lakes in all of Virginia. It's approximately 17 miles in length, flaunting about 200 miles of shoreline and covering roughly 13,000 acres.

It gets interesting.

Now, here's where it gets interesting. As they were creating this awesome lake, someone thought, "Hey, why not make this place even cooler?" In the late 1960s and early '70s, they started selling off lots and licenses to developers. That's when Lake Anna's waterfront neighborhoods started popping up like mushrooms after a summer rain.

People came from all over.

People from all over the place caught wind of this lakeside paradise. They were like, "Dude, have you heard about Lake Anna?" It was like a siren call. Families and individuals packed their bags and said, "Peace out!" to wherever they were before, and they came here for a slice of the lakeside life. Some folks moved here full-time, while others grabbed up vacation homes for those epic weekend getaways.

Fast forward to today.

Fast forward to today, and Lake Anna is the place to be. It's this ginormous, 13,000-acre playground where you can do all kinds of rad stuff. You've got boating, fishing, swimming, water sports like wakeboarding, jet skiing, and kayaking – you name it! And let's not forget the state park and marinas. The lake is surrounded by lush trees, making it a prime spot for wildlife lovers. You can spot critters and birds just hanging out, enjoying the view. The lake has evolved into a destination offering everything from unique luxury homes with fully loaded boat docks to cozy water access cabins, making it accessible for everyone, whether you're craving the height of lakeside living or a more affordable escape. It's a getaway for those in Northern Virginia, being only about an hour and a half drive from the hustle and bustle of big city life, offering an oasis of calm nature and water lifestyle vibes. The lake is also easily accessible from other areas such as Fredericksburg, Richmond, Charlottesville, and Culpeper, making it one of the fastest-growing destinations for lake homes and lake vacation getaways.

Insider scoop.

Now, here's the juicy insider scoop about Lake Anna – it ain't your run-of-the-mill lake; it's more like having two lakes rolled into one! Picture this: three sneaky dikes that cross the lake, creating two totally separate and awesome sections. It's like Lake Anna's very own magic trick. Each side serves up its unique flavor, making it the ultimate hangout, whether you're in the mood for action or some serene lakeside downtime. Lake Anna – the big, badass man-made lake that's turned into the coolest spot for living, playing, and escaping. Think of it as a double-scoop ice cream cone, with each side offering its own delicious scoop.

Sides of the lake.

Now, let's talk about the Public Side (aka "The Cold Side"): This is where the party's in full swing! It's open to everyone, and you can easily go out on your boat, thanks to the public boat launches, parks, and some hotspots for epic water adventures. Imagine cruising up, tying your boat, and sauntering over to these rad waterfront restaurants. It's like an endless beach bash in the summertime – boats gliding, tunes jamming, and swimmers creating a splash-tastic scene. Oh, and guess what? The water on this side? In comparison to the private side, the public side is cooler than a cucumber, a lifesaver on those sweltering summer days.

Now, let's flip the script to the private side, also known as the "warm" side – it's like the VIP lounge for those in the know. Here, you'll find a variety of communities with waterfront and water access properties, but don't even bother looking for businesses or restaurants by the water – they're nowhere to be found. Nope, this side is like your own super-secret lakeside hideaway. Picture private docks, unspoiled views, and tranquility stretching out as far as the eye can see. This is the ultimate lakeside Zen zone, exclusively for landowners and their lucky guests.

Closing note.

So, whether you're in the mood for a wild time or some peaceful lakeside vibes, Lake Anna's got you covered.

Hello Everyone, it’s Melanie Lucero with The M Group here to talk to you about Lake Anna Living. We're diving into the laid-back vibes of Lake Anna, Virginia – my kind of place. So much so that I moved here!

People who call the lake home.

Today we're talking about the people who call this place home, whether they've been here since birth or migrated for a taste of that lake lifestyle.

Now, Lake Anna's got a mix of born-and-raised locals who practically know everyone in town and, of course, all the juicy lake gossip. On the flip side, we've got homeowners who made the journey from places like Northern Virginia and Maryland, seeking that slower pace of life by the water.

Let's talk homes – full-timers, part-timers, and the investor crew. Some people trade city life for full-time Lake Anna living, especially those wise retirees or the tele workers who found their sanctuary during the COVID migration.

Then there's the weekend warriors, the part-timers, some who are investors and others that just want a second lake home.

Some part timers turn their lakeside abode into a cozy short-term rental when they're not using the property. This helps with the expenses and makes it more affordable.

Tourism.

Now let's talk about Tourists. They're here year-round, not just in the summer hustle. Even during winter, people flock to Lake Anna for that sweet escape. We're talking visitors from all corners of Virginia and beyond. Check this out, in 2022 Travel and Leisure named Lake Anna Virginia the best place to buy a vacation home.

What do locals do.

So, what's the deal with locals? Well, when the sun's out, they're out enjoying everything and, sometimes, doing nothing At all, maybe just enjoying TV and binge watching their favorite shows but what they do have is immediate access to things like - fishing, boating, kayaking, you name it.

Let me share some examples of a day in the life of a local Lake Anna resident.

In the summertime when my family comes to visit from Colorado, my high school nieces would go down to our boat dock and spend most of the day on our paddle boards and kayaks, tipping each other off the boards, swimming, laughing, sun bathing and listening to their music with our waterproof bluetooth speaker. Then they would take a casual stroll back to our house were they would raid our refrigerator. After taking showers they would go out back and make s’mores by our fire pit and hang out for hours. They’d make videos and play pranks on us.

Holidays.

During the holidays we end up attending several holiday parties hosted in our neighborhood with drinks and amazing food and endless conversations with amazing people. Holiday music whether it’s Christmas or Halloween.

This is some of our favorite times of the year at Lake Anna with locals that open up their homes to friends, their family and neighbors. Oh and let me add this, this afternoon before the filming of this video, the Bumpass Fire Department drove through our neighborhood with The Grinch, Mr. And Mrs. Santa Claus and Frosty the Snowman. Even our dogs thought it was cool.

Winter time.

A lot of people ask me “what is there to do at winter time”? Personally, I tell people to get used to the hour drive to the major cities surrounding Lake Anna.

We like to shop at larger grocery store chains such as Whole Foods and Wegmann’s, take advantage of luxury services, and visit the malls. On our way home sometimes we hit traffic and it reminds us just how amazing it is to live at Lake Anna.

Warmer months.

Now let me get back what’s it's like come warmer months, it's all about the lake life – fishing, boating, kayaking, diving, jet skiing and water sports. There are organized events on the water, and locals love

Doing things with nearby friends – whether it's a barbecue , quiet dinner, or a friendly gathering.

And hey, there's always a spot at the lounges, wineries, or microbreweries.

The best part? Tourists get a slice of the action too! With motels and popular short-term rentals, everyone can enjoy the Lake Anna experience.

Essentials.

Need the essentials? Lake Anna's got you covered. Dollar Generals, Food Lion with a pharmacy, an ABC store, marinas for boat business, a hardware store, and even consignment shops.

Farmers markets.

And when the season's in full swing, Mineral's Farmers Market is the place to be, offering everything from meats to handmade jewelry.

Nearby.

And if you’re willing drive just a few minutes longer you can visit other restaurants, and amenities in Orange VA, the town of Mineral, Louisa and Spotsylvania.

If you miss some of the bigger city stores you are within a 1 hour drive to Richmond, Fredericksburg, Culpepper and Charlottesville, the home of The University of Virginia.

More information.

So, whether you're local, a part-timer, investor, or just passing through, Lake Anna's got the charm that keeps you coming back for more. It's more than just a lake – it's a lifestyle. For more information, be sure to contact us today. We are the go-to Lake Anna real estate agents that specialize in waterfront and water access homes!

Two sides.

Confused about the difference between the public and private sides of Lake Anna?

Today, you’re going to learn the key differences. I'm Melanie Lucero, and we're about to dive deep into the insider info of Lake Anna.

Get familiar with the area.

First off, let's get familiar with the area. Lake Anna is situated on the east side of the U.S., in Virginia. It's south of Washington DC, and nestled right in the heart of Fredericksburg, Richmond, Charlottesville, and Culpeper. What's cool is that it's just about an hour's drive from each of these cities, providing homeowners with a multitude of nearby options.

The lake.

Now, let's talk about the lake itself. Lake Anna covers approximately 13,000 acres and stretches about 17 miles in length! That's a vast expanse of water. And when we talk about the shoreline, we're looking at about 200 miles surrounded by the three counties – Louisa, Spotsylvania, and Orange, making Lake Anna the heartbeat of a vibrant community.

Side note.

By the way, the lake is not just about water – it's a haven for nature enthusiasts. You'll find an abundance of wildlife around Lake Anna, from birds to fish. It's a true natural paradise away from the city!

Let’s talk about the two sides.

Okay, so you've probably heard about these 'two sides' – you may know them as either the public side aka the cold side or the private side aka the hot side. Let's break it down.

Right in the middle of Lake Anna is the Dominion Power Plant. This is a key player, creating what we call the public side (aka the cold side) and the private side (aka the hot side). Just south of the plant, you will find 3 land dikes. These 3 dikes are what separate the lake into its two sides.

Public side.

The public side is a giant, over twice as large as the private side, totaling about 9,600 acres of water. This is where the action happens, because it's open to the public.

Here you will have access to one of the several public marinas, allowing you to launch your boat, jet skis, and grab last-minute items needed for your trip. Gas stations at the marinas provide convenience for refueling, and public beach areas like at Lake Anna State Park offer amenities such as restrooms, grills, seating areas, cabins for rent, and more! A dedicated swim area is popular for kids and families.

Among the public side's highlights are the waterfront restaurants. With commercial activity permitted, you can pull up by boat to places like Tims, the Cove, TapHouse, Vitos, Asian Cafe, Tasty Crab, and El Patron – saving you on those days you didn’t pack enough or feel like prepping the cooler.

While on the water, People love to hang out at the sandbars, cruise the coves and explore the different branches, and also spend time at the south end of the public side of the lake because its the widest open area of all the lake with some of the deepest waters. Residential waterfront homes down in this area enjoy stunning water views of the wide open lake.

Fishermen, listen up! Both sides of Lake Anna are great for fishing, but the public side, with its cooler waters, is a favorite spot for anglers. From kayaking to jet skiing, the public side is a playground for water enthusiasts.

Private side.

Now, onto the private side. It spans about 4,000 acres and is not open to the public, but property owners and their guests have exclusive access. The water here is warmer than the public side, extending the usability from early spring into late fall.

Keep in mind, though, commercial activity is prohibited on the private side. For gas, plan on taking a gas jug to the station and finding a crafty way to get it down to the boat. With no public access, the private side offers a quieter experience, making it ideal for those who value tranquility.

While commercial activity is restricted, residential homes thrive on the private side, comparable to what we see on the public side. Stunning waterfront homes in various styles and permitted boat houses create a picturesque landscape.

FAQ’s.

A frequently asked question is are the property values different on the public and private side? Is one side more valuable than the other?

The answer is no; property values on both sides are similar and depend on individual property factors like land, water frontage, amenities, and the house itself.

Choosing a side is a personal preference, driven by your vision of lifestyle. Some prefer the public side for its restaurants and social scene, while others appreciate the private side's less crowded waters.

Another common question I get from home buyers when deciding what side of the lake they want to live on is “can you do the same water activities on either side” and the answer is yes. You can swim, boat, jet ski, kayak, fish, and more on both sides. Keep in mind,

There are general boating rules that everyone, regardless of the side of the lake is to follow. And basic Courtesy and care is appreciated on both sides.

The last question people ask is where can I stay when visiting lake anna?

The short term rental market is vibrant at lake anna, and you can rent out a breathtaking waterfront home or water access home to get the full lake experience.

It’s also a smart move to help indecisive home buyers decide what they really want in their lake home. What’s even better, is both sides of the lake have short term rentals. One way to experience the private side without being a home owner is to Airbnb a property on the private side.

Closing notes.

So, there you have it – the inside scoop on Lake Anna's public and private side! To download your free copy of the map in this video, you’ll find it on this page!

A big ass man-made lake.

In 1968 approximately 18,000 acres of land was purchased by the Virginia Electric and Power Company known as VEPCO with a vision to create electricity. In order to support the operations needed to accomplish this endeavor, a big ass man-made lake called Lake Anna was developed in 1972-1973 with the purpose of supporting the North Anna Nuclear Power Plant. The lake was formed by damming the North Anna River.

About Lake Anna.

Lake Anna is one of the largest freshwater inland lakes in all of Virginia. It is approximately 17 miles in length, has about 200 miles of shoreline and covers roughly 13,000 acres. Getting to the lake is an easy commute from Northern Virginia and other areas such as Fredericksburg, Richmond, Charlottesville, and Culpeper and is one of the fastest growing destinations for lake homes and lake vacation destinations. Real estate at Lake Anna is growing, and many are making the move to Lake Anna.

Two sides of the Lake.

Lake Anna is divided into two separate bodies of water, called the public and private sides. The public side is open to the general public who may use and access the public side of the lake through the marinas or the Lake Anna State Park. However, on the private side the use of this side is limited only to property owners and their lucky guests. This results in more traffic on the water on the public side and less traffic on the water on the private side.

Size of the lake.

The Lake is roughly 17 miles long, has 200 miles of shoreline and is roughly 13,000 acres in size.

Size of public and private sides.

The Lake Anna public side is approximately 9,600 acres and the private side of the lake is approximately 4,000 acres.

Weather.

See our Lake Anna Weather Report from local weather experts.

Water temperature differences.

You may hear others referring to Lake Anna as “the cold side or the hot side.” These nicknames are attributed to the well known differences in the water temperatures. The public side is also known as the “cold side” as the water temperatures are slightly cooler than the private side. The private side is also known as the “hot side / warm side” as the temperatures here are noticeably warmer than the public side. Reports suggest the water on the public side can range from 7-14 degrees cooler than the water on the private side. Keep in mind that this varies based on season, month and other factors.

Reports show the summer month’s water temperature at Lake Anna tends to be in the 80 degrees on the cold side of the lake and 90 degrees on the warm side of the lake.

Things to do at Lake Anna.

There is so much to do at Lake Anna. Check out our free custom map available on our website to instantly download your free one page map with all the things to do and places to go. This map isn't available anywhere else but from Melanie and was custom designed by her for your enjoyment. When you come to the lake here are some of the things you can expect to do while you're here. MAP AVAILABLE BELOW.

• Rentals (Jet Ski, Tubing, Kneeboard, WakeBoard)
• Water Activities (Boating, Swimming, Beaches, State Park, Little Islands, Fishing, Kayak, wake board, kneeboard)
• Golf (Mini Golf at Tim’s and Cutalong)
• Dining & Drinks (Restaurants, Breweries, TapHouse, Live Music)
• Adventure (Fly Planes, TapHouses, Wineries, Vineyards)
• Explore (Historic Sites, Theme Parks Nearby, Marinas, State Park)
• Outdoor Activities (Hiking/Biking/Running, Trails, BBQ, Cookout)
• Convenient Eateries (Delis, Ice Cream Shop at Tims)
• Accommodations (Christopher Runs CampGround, Camping, Short Term Rentals, Motels)
• Entertainment (Local Events, Music, Farmers Markets, Meetups)
• Leisure (Sunbathe, Sandbars)

Swimming at Lake Anna.

A top googled question is regarding swimming at Lake Anna. Swimming and boating in the water are known to be safe. As homeowner’s ourselves at Lake Anna, we too enjoy swimming and all amenities the lake has to offer. We encourage you to view Dominion Powers website and the Lake Anna Civic Association (LACA) website for more information on water quality.

Commercial activity on water.

Commercial activity on the water is permitted on the public side however it is prohibited on the water on the private side. On the public side, you'll find waterfront restaurants and marinas, this is because commercial activities are allowed on this side of the lake.

However, there are no restaurants or marinas (to include gas) available on the water of the private side. Homeowners have to bring the gas jugs down to their boat for refill or put the boat on a trailer and drive it to the gas station to refuel. Elk Creek County Store is on Kentucky Springs Rd. and offers gas.

Counties and taxes at Lake Anna.

The properties surrounding Lake Anna touch three counties - Louisa County, Spotsylvania County, and Orange County.

The Louisa County tax rate is .72 cents for every $100 of the taxed assessed value.

The Spotsylvania tax rate is .77 cents for every $100 of the taxed assessed value.

The Orange County tax rate is .61 cents for every $100 of the taxed assessed value.

(**Please check the current rates as this is dated the date of article)

Waterfront Homes.

Waterfront homes are built on pieces of property that touch the shoreline of the Lake, the water frontage and views vary from parcel to parcel. Waterfront homes have direct access to the lake. The prices of waterfront homes at Lake Anna tend to start around $800,000 into the $2,000,000’s. A recorded high sale closed in 2022 for $4,750,000 with the property featuring a waterfront home with approximately 59 acres of land and a roughly 3,600 ft water frontage / shoreline.

There are several factors that determine the value of waterfront homes at Lake Anna.

1. Length of water frontage / shoreline
2. Size of the water view
3. House (Size, Age, Updates, Location)
4. Amenities (Boat house, detached garages, additional structures, improvements to land, etc.)

Bottom line is the better the view, shoreline and house, the more valuable the property becomes.

Water access homes.

Water access homes at Lake Anna are situated near the water without direct shoreline contact. Water access homes are located within subdivisions / HOA’s that include “shared common water access areas” or simply worded “common area” and is equipped with amenities such as boat slips and ramps that offer accessibility to the lake. The common areas are exclusively for the residents of that community and these areas are not open to the public. Lots of homeowners of water access homes find their property is just a walk or golf cart drive away from the common area.

Many water access homes include boat slips within the subdivision's common areas, however some subdivisions provide boat slips that can be leased, obtained on a first-come-first-serve basis, or some parcels may not have a dedicated boat slip at all. The value of water access homes at Lake Anna typically ranges from approximately $300,000 to $800,000.

Subdivisions or HOA communities.

There are over 150 subdivisions that surround the lake on both the public and private sides. However, there are also waterfront properties and other properties around the lake that are not in a subdivision or HOA. For HOA communities, the typical annual due observed is $100-600 annually depending on the HOA and its amenities, maintenance requirements, and other factors. The HOA communities are different and have their own covenants and restrictions and their own board. The key benefit for being in a HOA community, is for their dedicated community only access to the lake which is most ideal for “water access properties.” This area is known as the subdivisions common area. Each common area around the lake is different and has different amenities but what is typically common is a ramp, dock, and boat slips with other upgraded amenities seen such as covered boat slips, grill areas, kayak racks, community pool, picnic area, volleyball area, tennis court and more.

Vacant land at Lake Anna.

Vacant land around Lake Anna is available for purchase, usually without amenities such as a well and septic system, and without a pre-existing house. You can purchase vacant waterfront lots, water access lots, and there are some RV friendly lots available. It is common to see buyers ask for a soil and/or study period contingency in their offer, to allow them time and resources to determine if the property can be used for their intended purpose. Waterfront lots range from roughly $275,000 to $700,000, and water access lots tend to range from $30,000 up to $150,000.

New construction at Lake Anna.

In the area, there are numerous home builders that specialize in waterfront and water access home builds. Builders from other major cities in Virginia have also built properties at the lake. If you reach out to us directly, we would be delighted to provide recommendations for reputable home builders as well as contractors. We frequently communicate with builders to learn more about their products, services, timelines and costs so we can best pair our clients with the right options.

In addition, you may view properties for sale listed as “To Be Built.” If you see this, this typically means that a builder has already bought land, and went through the permitting process to build a specific house on the land and the plans are already made. While the permits are in hand, the build typically does not begin the build until a buyer purchases the property. By choosing this new construction option, you save time by avoiding the permitting process as the builder typically already did this.

Dominion easement.

This easement pertains to waterfront homes and the common areas of the HOA's communities. Dominion Power owns a margin of the land (typically around 50-75 feet) all the way around the shoreline of the entire lake.

This information can get a lot more technical but for the sake of keeping this easy to understand - the bottom line is Dominion Power gives you “an easement over that margin of land owned by Dominion, between your property and the lake, which gives you ‘full use and enjoyment’ of that property.” You may build a boathouse and other amenities on this margin of land with approval from Dominion Power. For more information and specific wording, please visit Dominion Power’s website.

Boathouses.

For waterfront property owners, the construction of boathouses is not only allowed but also promoted, with Dominion Power's approval. Dominion Power provides comprehensive guidance to the public regarding the proper construction of these structures.

Bulkheads.

Waterfront property owners have the option to build and install bulkheads for erosion protection. There are three common types of bulkheads: wood sea wall, concrete sea wall, and rip-rap (rocks). Dominion Power provides comprehensive guidance to the public regarding the proper construction of these structures.

Well and septic systems.

Almost all properties around Lake Anna are on individual well and septic systems. Very few subdivisions such as Sunset Cove are on community septic systems or the townhouses next to the Lake Anna Plaza have public septic and water.

Internet.

High-speed internet is accessible in the area, but the type of access varies based on location around the lake. The top providers seen are StarLink, iWisp, Viasat, FiberLync, Firefly, Comcast, Verizon, and others - you will need to check their availability. See our other pages on our website for a list of service providers who can assist you with this.

Takeaways.

When considering a move to Lake Anna, it's not just about buying a property; it's about embracing a unique lifestyle. With its serene waters, beautiful surroundings, and abundance of recreational activities, Lake Anna offers a retreat that has attracted many from all over. Whatever your reason may be, Lake Anna provides the perfect backdrop for creating unforgettable memories.

When purchasing real estate at Lake Anna, it's crucial to work with a knowledgeable and trustworthy partner. We have a deep understanding of the local real estate market, including regulations and trends. Our team will work harder than anyone else to guide you through every step of the process, from finding the perfect property to ensuring a smooth closing. With our expertise and dedication to your needs, we'll help you make informed decisions and find the Lake Anna property that's perfect for you.

At The M Group, we believe in helping you not just find a house but discover a new way of life at Lake Anna.

Virtually guided tour.

Today you’re going on a virtual tour of Lake Anna! I’m Melanie Lucero and I will be your guide.

Meeting location.

As a Lake Anna real estate agent, when my clients come down, I like to meet them in the middle of this 17 mile long lake at The Lake Anna Plaza. This is a great place to kick off a visually guided tour and for those who have never been to the lake before.

Located right off the 208, is the Lake Anna Plaza which features 3 restaurants and a Taphouse. Also here is the Lake Anna Yacht club where the public can pay to rent a covered boat slip with optional electric lift.

The most popular time to visit is from Spring to Fall.

Before we get going, one big tip I share with my clients is that if you have never been to Lake Anna before, just driving around the area will not give you a good idea of Lake Anna. This is because the roads are surrounded by tall trees that obstruct the true views of the lake from land. While driving, you may get a quick look at the water from the bridges but this does not do the lake justice and it really isn't the best representation of the experience you’ll have here. You’ll want to get out on a boat and cruise around just a little. Be sure to contact me directly and I can set you up for success.

Kick off to key spots.

Today, we’ll be sharing what's on the public side of the lake. Kicking off from the Lake Anna Plaza, if you travel north on the water, you'll pass the iconic Lake Anna State Park where the public can use and access all its amenities from the dedicated beach area to trails and so much more. Continue north on the water and you’ll find The Boardwalk at Tim’s right off Route 522 which offers boat slips for their guests to use during their stop at the location. This hot spot features Tim’s restaurant that serves American and seafood, but don't forget to check out the businesses underneath Tim’s, there's Moo Thru Ice Cream, a deli, watercraft rentals, and mini golf with arcades. A waterfront motel is also under construction as of 2024 that’s right next to Tim’s. If you continue north on this branch, you will find a local favorite sandbar. Also on the northern side of the lake off Route 719 is The Cove restaurant with waterfront boat slips for their guests to use, here you can expect traditional American food and a bar. Boat slips for rent, and gas for your boat is also available here.

If you travel south of the 208, you will continue to explore different branches and coves. Play a game of finding the Marina signs in the event you need gas or to grab quick items. South of the 208 bridge, you will find islands with areas with shallow waters, called sand bars. Sometimes locals put up volleyball nets for everyone to play. Lots of boats like to anchor down and relax for a while. You can sunbathe on your boat or dip into the lake and chat up some people. Continue to travel south down the lake where the widest most open portion of the lake is and some of the deepest waters. At the most southern tip of the public side is Pleasants Landing and El Patron, a waterfront restaurant offering delicious Mexican food and big Margaritas.

Traveling from the most northern tip to the most southern tip of the lake could take anywhere around 45 minutes by boat if you’re traveling at a relatively fast speed.

Sightseeing.

Cruising on a boat on the public side is one of the favorite things people love to do along with looking at all the different waterfront houses and styles. They really are an attraction to see. What makes Lake Anna so unique is that we are not cookie cutter in terms of real estate. The houses are so different architecturally and conceptually. You’ll see them range from grand rustic log homes and modern monster sized homes. If you buy vacant land here, you are free to choose your builder, you are not required to use a specific builder by the HOA or counties; therefore, you’re going to see many different styles of houses that create this perfectly imperfect balance of residential homes.

When sightseeing, it’s neat to watch the birds dive into the water to catch a fish or spot the occasional eagle soaring above. Largemouth Bass, Striped Bass, Hybrid Striped Bass and Black Crappie are the main fish species of interest at Lake Anna.

You will also see people engaging in a variety of water sports. My favorite is watching them fall off into the water.

Take in what's happening around you.

While traveling on the water, you will also notice that while there is a lot of residential development, there is still a lot of undeveloped land. The opportunities to buy vacant waterfront land remains, and will continue to remain for years to come. Some of our clients who don’t want to fully invest into a house now find themselves buying vacant land and holding it until they are ready or save up the funds to build a home.

Real estate market.

The lake recently has been recognized nationally as the #1 place in the United States to buy a vacation home, from Fox Business to Travel and Leisure this attention is turning heads nationwide.

In terms of property values of the Lake Anna area, the real estate market has shown a 10 year trend of increasing in value. Data from the BRIGHT MLS shows water access and waterfront residential homes have over doubled in value in the last ten years. See video for graphs.

Taking a closer look into all water access and waterfront sales including residential and land transactions, we see an increase in value as well. Meaning the properties (both residential and land) with water access and waterfront are appreciating and if the trend continues we will continue to see higher home values in the next decade. One could suggest, buying a home now is better than buying in 10 years where you risk paying double what you could have paid today. See video for chart.

Dreaming of this kind of life.

Lake Anna makes one think of Hollywood movies like Heavyweights, where you can see the giant blow up obstacle courses in the water, slides, and other fun water and outside activities to enjoy. Most people that reside on the lake own a boat, jet ski, or smaller items like paddle boards and kayaks. But all you really need to have a good time is a swim suit! This is the kind of place people see once and come back time and time again. A place that you can escape to and make nostalgic memories that will last a lifetime.

What can you get for your money.

For those dreaming of owning property at Lake Anna, there are various options. Water access homes typically range from $300,000 to $800,000, offering a mix of smaller, bigger, older and newer constructions. Waterfront homes are typically priced from $800,000 to over $2 million, providing a diverse range of options including those with more luxurious and updated amenities and breathtaking water views.

Boat houses are another beast at the lake, some are like mini houses on the water just without plumbing. Many waterfront properties have some sort of boat house already existing which is very ideal. To construct a boat house today with 2 coverslips with electrical lifts and a screened in porch and sun deck has been seen to cost roughly $100,000 - $150,000. Keep in mind, the cost of a boat house varies drastically depending on the builder, the size, materials and other factors. We can connect you with several boat house builders so you can explore your options if needed.

Takeaways.

Thank you for joining me on this virtual tour of Lake Anna. If you’re interested in exploring Lake Anna living further, don’t hesitate to contact The M Group to schedule your private tour and home buying consultation. You can also download the map seen in this video at our This Is Lake Anna page on our website.

Until next time.