Family Activities to Do at Indian Lake

Indian Lake, perfectly situated in Logan, Ohio, is the ideal summer vacation spot for most families near the area. Indian Lake is home to a wide range of wildlife, with many inlets and bays along the 30 mile coast. It's no wonder families enjoy spending weekends here! The number of outdoor activities are bound to keep you busy, while making new summer memories with friends and family. If you are considering purchasing a waterfront home or interested in taking a weekend trip, here are some fun family activities to do in Indian Lake!

Go Boating on the Water

What's a lake trip without soaking up some rays on the boat?! Indian Lake offers various docking/loading options, and even waterfront homes with their own dock. If you don't have a boat, don't fret! Consider renting watercrafts for a day full of fun. Be sure to study the map for no-wake areas that are enforced by the State Park Water Patrol. Enjoy a relaxing day floating on the lake, or try out water skiing and tubing for a new adventure. Just don't forget to pack your sunscreen!

Hit the Trails

Start the day with a refreshing hike along the lake or a rejuvenating trail bike ride. While making your way through the woods, slow down and enjoy the peaceful pace of life here in Logan, Ohio. Explore three of the most common trails at Indian Lake:

• Pew Island Trail: 1-mile scenic walking trail, encircling Pew Island with beautiful views of Indian Lake

• Cherokee Trail: 3-mile easy walking trail, located just west of the State Park Campground

• Lakeside Bike Path: 3-mile paved path available for walking and cycling, located on the west side of Indian Lake between Old Field Beach and Lakeview Harbor

Cool Off With a Swim

Pack up the family and head to one of Indian Lake's swimming areas for a splash in the water! There are two beaches that are available for swimming:

• Old Field Beach: The largest of the two beaches, Old Field Beach is easily accessible off State Route 235 located on the west side of Indian Lake. Ample parking is available and also includes picnic shelters and restroom facilities. Don't miss the endless list of summer events that are held at this beach!

• Fox Island Beach: Located just off Orchard Island Road, this beach also includes parking, restroom facilities, grills, and several shaded trees to relax under with a blanket.

Choice Properties offers you a chance to find the home of your dreams. We work with your budget and ideas in mind to support your ultimate vision. Call us if you are ready to check out the available inventory or to speak with a reputable agent who can assist you with your home buying needs.

A Weekend at Indian Lake

Indian Lake, Ohio, is known for its numerous islands across the center of the lake, home to a large wildlife area, with many inlets and bays along a 30 mile coast. Spending weekends at Indian Lake is a common tradition held by many friends and families, and for good reason! The outdoor activities are endless and allow your family to make cherishable memories while enjoying time together. Whether you're considering purchasing a waterfront home or planning a weekend trip, stay tuned to discover what makes Indian Lake a popular destination getaway.

Water Activities

This 5,800 acre lake offers unlimited horsepower boating, giving you the option to relax and sunbathe or rev up the engine for tubing in the zoned area. Indian Lake features five boat ramps and many boat docks to rent, providing an easy and safe storage for your boat. Water skiing is another popular activity among the lake, pros and newbies welcome!

Fishing and Hunting

Do you consider yourself a fishing connoisseur? Indian Lake is stocked with largemouth bass, saugeye, white bass, crappie, bluegill, walleye, catfish, and more! Large wetlands remain on the northeastern part of the lake, where navigational channels have been cut through the area to allow boats. Soak in the sunset and nature sounds while fishing peacefully. Hunting is also permitted in designated areas only. Be sure to renew your hunting or fishing license before casting away!

Swimming and Boating

If you had the option to go to a beach every weekend, why wouldn't you?! Indian Lake offers two public beaches for swimming and relaxation, but be sure to pack the sunscreen! The four designated boating and swimming areas are South Walnut Isle, Little Walnut Isle, Hermit Island, and Snow Island.

Camping and Hiking

Did you know there are over 4,000 campsites near the lake? The Indian Lake State Park offers 500 family campsites suitable for tents or trailers just Northwest of the lake. If you're looking for electrical hookups, full-service hookups, or campsites for pets, there is something for everyone!

Hiking at Indian Lake is another outdoor activity enjoyed by many. Take a break from the water and immerse yourself in mother nature. The Cherokee Trail and the Pew Island Trail are both great paths, offering fresh air and stunning lake views.

Choice Properties understands your needs and desires when it comes to the home search. We are here to help you define what you want, seek the best property and move forward feeling educated and able to make good decisions throughout the process. You can trust us to help you navigate it with the best real estate agents working for you. Call us to get started on your dream home search today.

Questions to Ask When Buying an Indian Lake House

Waterfront homes hold a beauty unlike any other naturally appealing to most buyers. Although waterfront homes easily grab the eye, not many people consider the responsibilities that come with purchasing a lake house. At Choice Properties, we want you to enjoy the fun experience Indian Lake has to offer which is why we firmly believe buyers should research more on waterfront properties. We have listed questions to ask when buying an Indian Lake home, allowing you to be fully prepared throughout this exciting process!

Can You Get a Loan?

The first question to ask is the probability of getting a mortgage loan for a waterfront home. Since it's a vacation home, mortgage loans are usually higher and may take longer than residential homes, so it's important to tackle this step early on. Discussing credit score and credit history with a loan provider allows you to set a budget for your Indian Lake Home. Once you obtain your loan, our expert agents will work beside you to show you the best homes in your price range.

What Do You Want in a Lake House?

Consider making a list of must-have items you crave in a lake house, as well as those you can live without will help narrow down your search. For example, how close to the water you want to be? Do you prefer a small, quaint cabin or a large house with a dock? Taking time to discuss the amount of space and bedrooms you will need helps weed out unrealistic homes. It's important to keep an open mind when touring potential homes as it may be challenging to find a complete list of must-haves in one space.

Have You Factored in Other Expenses?

The fun and memories made are definitely worth the cost, but don't forget to factor in other expenses as well. Waterfront properties often have a higher maintenance checklist than residential homes, including dock upkeep, rusting items and wearing out do to the proximity of water. These expenses can easily be avoided by taking care of possessions and tackling any issues at the first sign.

What Insurance Have You Researched?

Have you been researching insurance plans? Because waterfront homes are more susceptible to damage from natural disasters, such as flooding, insurance rates are typically more expensive. Keep insurance rates in mind as you calculate overall budget and expenses.

Does the Property Fulfill Your Lifestyle?

Perhaps the most important question to ask yourself is if the property fulfills your lifestyle needs. In the excitement that comes with buying a waterfront home, it can be easy to lose sight of why you want to live near the water in the first place. For example, a home on a lake beach may require you to travel to a nearby dock to store and use your boat. If you don't mind traveling a few miles to get to your boat, then a dock can be ruled out! Your happiness is the final factor in determining the lake house you desire.

Choice Properties understands your needs and desires when it comes to the home search. We are here to help you define what you want, seek the best property and move forward feeling educated and able to make good decisions throughout the process. You can trust us to help you navigate it with the best real estate agents working for you. Call us to get started on your dream home search today.

10 Waterfront Home Buying Tips from our Agents

From searching for the perfect location to getting pre-approved, purchasing a waterfront home can feel like an overwhelming process. At Choice Properties, our expert lake house agents understand the ins-and-outs of buying a waterfront home, eliminating the stress and worries that tag along. These 10 waterfront home buying tips from our agents will give you awareness on what to expect when purchasing a home by the water.

   1.Find a trusted real estate agent who is familiar with the waterfront area.

An average real estate agent will not have the detailed knowledge of waterfront properties in Ohio to help you find the best deal for your budget. Although you may think you found a great deal, it's important to make note of features and amenities the home lacks that makes it a great deal. Having a trusted real estate agent will ensure you are getting the most out of your budge.  

2. Consider the property rather than the house structure.

Often times with waterfront properties, many buyers will fall in love with a house and not realize the mucky water or lack of privacy. Keeping an open mind and buying a property you love rather than a house you love will drastically change the outcome. It's important to remember a house can always be updated, but can not be relocated.

3. Purchase a property that truly suits your lifestyle.

You may find a property you love, but it could be 30 minutes from the lake or your desired location. If you enjoy going on the boat or watching the sunset by the lake, that drive will change the amount of times you truly get to take advantage of those activities.

4. Research loan options early.

Since most waterfront properties are more expensive than residential homes, loans often fall into the higher end of a mortgage payment with a lake house. Because of this, lenders only consider buyers who are extremely qualified knowing they can afford the second home. It's better to look into loan options early on in the process to prepare your house hunt.

5. Make sure the home structure is able to withstand water.

Unlike average homes, waterfront properties are more exposed to harsh elements, meaning extra measures should be taken to protect the home. Taking the appropriate action to take care of the home will ensure years worth of use.

6. Insurance can be more expensive and complicated.

Along with the loan options, getting home insurance for a lake home can be more expensive and take quite a while. Each state holds different regulations for the type of insurance needed, so being aware of these and deciding which insurance is best for you will relieve stress in the long run.

7. Research potential projects you can do with the property.

If you are interested to making changes to your waterfront property, such as adding a deck or boat dock, we suggest starting these projects early to ensure the projects are doable. Also researching activities that are allowed on the lake will prepare you to what to expect, such as jet ski restrictions or other rules.

8. Chat with local neighbors.

Stop by the local community and neighbors to see how they enjoy living in the space or if they have any issues. Discussing these will allow you to get insider-information, and they may even offer tips to landing the waterfront property of your dreams.

9. Look into the expense of utilities.

Those who are looking to buy waterfront may not have considered the expense of utilities. Bringing services such as cable, wifi, clean water, septic systems, or electricity can be expensive and should be planned out in advance.

10. Understand the responsibilities that come with being a waterfront homeowner.

Understanding the responsibilities of your property will come with a smooth transition and happy neighbors. If your waterfront property is part of an HOA, be sure you are familiar with the rules and agree to follow.

Choice Properties understands your needs and desires when it comes to the home search. We are here to help you define what you want, seek the best property and move forward feeling educated and able to make good decisions throughout the process. You can trust us to help you navigate it with the best real estate agents working for you. Call us to get started on your dream home search today.

Indian Lake Boat Show

Spring is around the corner, which means it is time for the annual Indian Lake Boat show! The 2018 spring boat show will feature stunning deals,  beautiful weather, tasty food, and the chance to view available Indian Lake properties.

Waterfront Properties

Join Choice Properties during this fun weekend to view some of our beautiful waterfront properties! We will be holding open houses all day Saturday and Sunday, making it easy to fit your schedule. Stop in for a free chicken sandwich & drink, and pick up an Indian Lake Guide or chat with our award-winning realtors.

Open Houses

• OPEN HOUSE : SAT, MARCH 3, 12:00-1:30 - WATERFRONT - 7502 DUNNS POND CIR #4, RUSSELLS POINT

• OPEN HOUSE : SAT, MARCH 3, 12-2PM - 305 W MAIN ST, RUSSELLS POINT

• OPEN HOUSE : SAT, MARCH 3, 12:00-2:00 - WATERFRONT – 9495 LAKESHORE DR W, HUNTSVILLE  

• OPEN HOUSE : SAT, MARCH 3, 12-2:00 - WATERFRONT – 9327 SASSAFRAS DR, LAKEVIEW  

• OPEN HOUSE : SAT, MARCH 3, 12-2:00 - 11475 TR 293, UNIT 415, LAKEVIEW

• OPEN HOUSE : SAT, MARCH 3, 12:00-2:00 & SUN, MARCH 4, 12:00-2:00  - 7225 SR 368 #30, HUNTSVILLE  

• OPEN HOUSE : SAT, MARCH 3, 12-3:00 & SUN, MARCH 4, 11-12:30  –WATERFRONT – 129 CHASE, 3-1-L , RUSSELLS POINT

• OPEN HOUSE : SAT, MARCH 3, 12PM-4PM & SUN, MARCH 4, 12PM-4PM - WATERFRONT – 9511 HERON WAY, BELLE CENTER

• OPEN HOUSE : SAT, MARCH 3, 4, 1:00-3:00 & SUN, MARCH 4 1:00-3:00 - WATERFRONT –11566 HORSESHOE CH. DR, LAKEVIEW

• OPEN HOUSE : SAT, MARCH 3, 1:00-3:00 - WATERFRONT - 11011 PARK, LAKEVIEW  

• OPEN HOUSE : SAT, MARCH 3, 2:00-4:00 & SUN, MARCH 4, 1:00-3:00 - WATERFRONT - 7575 PARK AVE, RUSSELLS POINT  

• OPEN HOUSE : SAT, MARCH 3, 2:00-4:00 -  NEW LISTING - WATERFRONT – 10243 CR 286, # A-16, HUNTSVILLE

• OPEN HOUSE : SAT, MARCH 3, 2:30-4:00 - 10728 SEMINOLE SHORE (CO RD 272), HUNTSVILLE

• OPEN HOUSE : SAT, MARCH 3, 2:30-4:00 –NEW LISTING – WATERFRONT - 10422 BUCKEYE, HUNTSVILLE

• OPEN HOUSE : SAT, MARCH 3, 2:30-4:00 – 10752 SEMINOLE SHORE DR, HUNTSVILLE  

• OPEN HOUSE : SAT, MARCH 3, 3:30-4:30 & SUN, MARCH 4, 3:30-4:30 – WATERFRONT - 7478 DUNNS POND CIR #13, RUSSELLS POINT  

• OPEN HOUSE : SUN, MARCH 4, 12-2:00 - 7814 MAPLE ST, RUSSELLS POINT

• OPEN HOUSE : SUN, MARCH 4, 12-2:00 – 9050 POPLAR, LAKEVIEW

• OPEN HOUSE : SUN, MARCH 4, 12:00-2:00 - WATERFRONT - 8651 SR 368  #65-C, HUNTSVILLE

• OPEN HOUSE : SUN, MARCH 4, 1:00-3:00 - WATERFRONT– 10262 SUNSET ISLE, HUNTSVILLE

• OPEN HOUSE : NEW LISTING –SUN, MARCH 4, 2:30-5:00 - WATERFRONT - 11044 PEACH COURT, BELLE CENTER

We hope to see you on Indian Lake this weekend, preparing to welcome the season of spring! Our award-winning agents are eager to fill you in on available waterfront properties.

Have a question regarding locations, or buying and selling a Lake House? Contact us anytime, we'd love to hear from you!

Work with the Best Indian Lake Realty Company for Your Home

The process of selling and buying a home has become complicated over time, with common law, state and local regulations and customs that surround the transaction. However, the best real estate agents will strive to simplify not only the language but also the procedure for you. At Choice Properties, the premier company for Indian Lake realty, our agents want to work with you to sell your home, and will put in all their efforts to make that happen.

The language of real estate can be confusing to the layman, and real estate agents are used to language that is technical. A good real estate agent will be patient and explain terms like easements, encroachments, and will walk you through the closing process. Your Choice Properties agent is completely committed to helping you understand the process so that you are able to make informed decisions.

You may not be fully convinced that you need to work with a real estate agent. It's not unusual homeowners to try to sell their homes independently. After all, what could be simpler than placing an ad and waiting for buyers to turn up? It's never that simple however. Any number of things could go wrong, like pricing your property unrealistically. When they find no takers after several months, many homeowners resort to using agents then. You can get ahead of the game and find yourself the best Indian Lake realty company to sell your home. Your Choice Properties agent will focus on selling your property full time, so you don't have to spend your precious free time.

The first, and arguably the most important step in the process of selling your home is setting the right price. You could certainly get the property appraised professionally and spend $200 to $400 on it. Another alternative is to ask the professionals at Choice Properties to price your home competitively, as we have the knowledge of what the homes in your neighborhood have sold for, and have access to an extensive number of comparisons. We can perform a competitive market analysis, and price your property just right.

As one of the top Indian Lake realty companies, Choice Properties agents have years of experience in negotiating property sales and overcoming buyers' objections. We are able to balance offers and counter-offers and handle all the contingencies that accompany real estate transactions. If you are considering selling your home, Choice Properties is the real estate company for you.

Call our award winning realtors to find out how we can assist you in selling your Indian Lake home.

Invest in Vacation Property with Our Beautiful Indian Lake Cottages for Sale

Indian Lake is a very popular vacation spot. People come from all over the country for its exceptional campground, boating and swimming facilities. If you've visited the area, then you've likely seen some Indian Lake cottages for sale. Now, we don't normally think of vacation properties as investment opportunities, but they can be one of the best investments to make. Indian Lake cottages for sale can definitely be an investment to think about.

Advantages of Indian Lake Cottages for Sale

Apart from the obvious benefits of having a permanent vacation destination in a beautiful rural setting like Indian Lake, owning a vacation property has other advantages for savvy investors.

Tangible Use

A vacation property is an asset that has practical uses. Of course you can rent it out, but you can also use it yourself at your convenience. It's not just sitting there, unused. Rental income is always welcome, and less disruptive in a second home.

Rise in Value

Looking at Indian Lake cottages for sale, you can be sure that they will rise in value over time. Especially when the market is in speculation mode, the value increase can be phenomenal.

Potential Retirement Home

Many buyers are buying second homes early in life, and not waiting for retirement. If this is your plan, then you'll know in good time whether the area is where you want to retire. And you'll be comfortable with the location, not to mention that you'll probably have paid off the mortgage by then too. There are many benefits to retiring in Indian Lake, especially in an Indian Lake cottage of your dreams.

Buyer's Market

Bad news for sellers but good news for you if you're considering Indian Lake cottages for sale. Vacation property prices have been depressed, so the timing couldn't be any better. If you've thought about investing in vacation property, now is the time to start looking.

Risks of Buying Vacation Property

Like with any property, buying a vacation property comes with its own set of risks. Typically, vacation homes have wider price swings. During real estate boom times, vacation homes can shoot up in price much faster than residential property, and conversely it can fall much faster too.

There are also income tax considerations. The IRS has specific rules regarding vacation properties. The number of days that you occupy a vacation property for personal use is what classifies it as a vacation home or an investment property. This makes a difference on whether you can deduct mortgage interest and real estate taxes on your income tax return, or whether you can deduct all expenses.

Buying a vacation property in an appealing spot like Indian Lake can be tempting. There are many great homes for sale here,
and you're bound to find one you love. Keep the risks in mind and you'll make a great investment.

Speak with a qualified Indian Lake Real Estate Agent today
to get a tour of the available Indian Lake Cottages for Sale that might interest you!

Land for Sale in Logan County Ohio

Logan County has a lot of natural resources and attractions, making it a perfect place for you to buy land. There are must see places like Indian Lake and downtown Bellefontaine, and plenty of culture and history. Now that you've decided you want to build your next home from the ground up, why not consider land for sale in Logan County, Ohio?

Before you get serious about laying down a foundation and starting to build your dream home, you should be aware that purchasing land comes with challenges, from zoning restrictions and easements to environmental regulations. Follow our tips, and you'll be looking at land for sale in Logan County, Ohio in no time. Here are some do's and don'ts of buying vacant land, to help you avoid buyer's remorse.

Work With A Land Pro

Working with a real estate agent who specializes in the sale of vacant land in Ohio is important and will help you navigate the finer details of the process. This is especially important if you've never bought land before and are unfamiliar with negotiations and performing due diligence. Choice Properties has a team of the best Ohio real estate agents and can help you navigate the process of buying land in Logan Country.

Choose The Right Builder

When you've found the perfect piece of land for sale in Logan County Ohio, you'll also have to find a home builder to craft your dream home. Choosing the right Ohio home builder is as important as choosing the right plot of land. Speak to different builders and ask for recommendations from others who have been through the process. Something to keep in mind here is that the land you buy may come with a particular builder already attached to it. If that isn't something you want, you may have to keep looking.

A Loan Is Unlikely

Usually a land purchase can't be leveraged with a lending institution the way a home purchase can be. There are loans available for land purchases, but generally they aren't more than 40 to 50 percent of the value, assuming you have a good relationship with the lender. So it is likely that you'll have to pay cash, if it's just land with no existing structures. Our agents can help you identify sources of funding if you're interested in buying land in Logan County.

Double Check The Property

Whether it's land for sale in Logan County, Ohio or anywhere else, you will absolutely have to conduct a site visit and walk the whole property.  You may have an idea of what you want your home layout to look like, but the property will dictate the reality of your options. Ensure that you know all the quirks of the property you want to buy and get a good sense of what the land has to offer.

Infrastructure, Utilities, and Limitations

There are sometimes hidden fees associated with buying land, depending on the parcel in question. You'll have to find out whether there's a fee for water and sewer connections, for example. Will you be able to get internet or cable access? And furthermore, what are the restrictions on the property? Will you be able to build your new home exactly the way you want to? All these are things you need to check before you commit to buying land in Ohio.

If you're looking for land for sale in Logan County, Ohio or anywhere else in this great region, contact the experienced agents at Choice Properties Real Estate today to find out how we can help you get the land you've been dreaming about!

Purchasing a home is an investment of time, effort and, of course, money. Indian Lake is a premier location for individuals and families looking to live in a place with a great community and activities for every season. The question of buying a home in Indian Lake should focus on a person's budget and desired payment plan. Learn some tips for knowing whether now is the right time to make an investment in a home in Indian Lake.

Calculate Payments

Affordability is the main factor in calculating payments. The 43% debt-to-income ratio rule is generally applied by the federal housing administration (FHA) as a guideline for approving mortgages. The ratio helps determine if a borrower has the ability to repay the mortgage. Market conditions play a role in this calculation. Consider also the following expenses in addition to the mortgage payment:

• HOA fees

• Property taxes

• Homeowner's insurance

• Other fees

The total should not equal more than 43% of the monthly gross income. Other expenses such as credit card debt, student loans and other debt should also be considered. It is recommended room is left to take on additional debt in the case of needing a new vehicle (and car payment).

Consider Other Expenses

Other expenses should factor into the decision to purchase a house including vacation budget, hobbies and other expenses. It can help to consider looking at a less expensive house as a place to start rather than at the top end of the budget where less wiggle room exists.

Down Payment

A down payment can be a significant portion of the upfront cost of a home. Generally, 20% of the home price is recommended as a down payment to avoid paying private mortgage insurance (PMI) which may add $50-$100 per month onto a mortgage. A smaller down payment is not necessarily a bad thing but some of the bonuses include more lender choices, a smaller mortgage payment and more chances to save down the road.

When to Buy

The opposite of high season in the preferred area is best when buying a home. The off season is a great time to look at properties, including the month of October for families with children as school will already have begun. The perfect market conditions for home buying are challenging as prices fluctuate but looking in off season has advantages to finding the right homes for the right value.

Affordability is a big factor for individuals and families looking to buy a home in Indian Lake. One of the more affordable areas to live with many activities, great schools and community life to explore, it still helps to follow tips from the pros about how to find the right property at the right time to make that investment worthwhile.

Contact Choice Properties agent who are ready and able to assist you
in the home search for that perfect Indian Lake property.