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.

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!

Ohio lakefront living is beneficial in so many ways. Relaxation and peace are not the only reasons being by water increases overall health. Ohio has many beautiful spots to choose from when selecting the optimal lakefront property. Learn more about why waterfront homes provide so much for people who enjoy the serenity of living by a lake.

Health Benefits of Ohio Lakefront Living

Improve Cognitive Functioning

People are likely to enter a quiet, meditative state when near water. Close proximity to water floods the brain with feel good hormones such as dopamine, serotonin and oxytocin. Because of this, people can enhance brain processing while slowing down to enjoy the peace being by water brings.

Fresh Air

Air quality near lakes is higher than inland air which makes it a healthy choice for individuals who want fresh, clean breezes blowing through their windows. After a day out on the lake or spending time near a lake, people tend to feel more refreshed and ready for the days ahead. Living that way every day is like being on permanent vacation.

Sounds of Silence

The soothing sounds of water coming up to shore or nature hovering nearby the water can be extremely relaxing. Nature and water have ways of calming down the senses from the overload of living with too much hustle and bustle. Spas use fountains with running water for this reason. Living near water will bottle this spa effect and bring it home to provide relaxation and a refuge from the outside world.

The "Blue Mind" Effect

Compelling research has shown that water tends to draw people in towards it, like a magnet. Much of a person's daily stress can be relieved by living closer to water. Green spaces in communities help reduce stress and water can provide the same effect.

Immunity

Immune systems function like a well-oiled machine. When stress is high, the machine may not run at optimal potential. As stress decreases, as it can do near water, a person will experience more positive health benefits inside the body including increased immunity. Lakefront living provides a healthier, more relaxed lifestyle in which to exist.

Lakefront living is a great opportunity to take advantage of all the health benefits it offers. Choice Properties provides the best selection of lakefront living at affordable price points and seeks to give you the best service through our top notch realtors.

Let us help you find the best lakefront Ohio property.

Give us a call today!

Retiring to a Lake House in Indian Lake Ohio

Indian Lake is a beautiful location with lots of amenities and options for individuals seeking to retire in the community. Whether a person wants to pursue an active lifestyle or one that is more laid back, Indian Lake is the perfect place to set one's sights on finding just the right lake house for retirement.

Lakes Galore

Indian lake is well positioned in the area with a 6,334 acre reservoir and canal system which gave way to new and growing railways. Indian Lake remained, serviced by railways and is a destination for people who enjoy fishing, boating and other lake activities. The lake has many fish including Saugeye and includes fishing clubs, snowmobiling and numerous islands which form the "Indian Isles." Wildlife areas are accessible by a network of channels, inlets and bays while people can enjoy on the ground entertainment with camping, hiking and biking along the lakeshore.

Buying a Home

Purchasing a home in Indian Lake offers many opportunities to explore communities across the region which provide a stunning view of the lake. Finding the right community can be important when seeking a retirement property as each individual or couple will have a unique sense of purpose for retirement whether it be more active or subdued. Depending on the area, some homes are closer to dining, entertainment and shopping while others are more hidden, allowing for more quiet serenity.

Friendly Neighbors

Indian Lake has several small communities which make up Indian Lake including Lakeview, Russells Point. Finding a home in the area is made easier by the friendly community atmosphere found in Indian Lake. People move at a slower pace, enjoying the surroundings and finding peace with lake activities, dining and other options available at the fingertips. When searching for that perfect retirement property, it is important to find a place where people know one another, are friendly and are at the same point in life. Indian Lake has everyone from young families to vacationers to retirees all living within the friendly neighborhoods surrounding the lake. Many people are choosing to come to Indian Lake to retire due to the plethora of activities but also affordable home prices and small town values afforded in a place like Indian Lake.

There are many reasons to look for a retirement property in Indian Lake, Ohio. Serene surroundings, the beautiful lake with opportunities to explore activities and wilderness can provide a great place to enjoy retirement or sit back and relax while taking in the scenery. Lake homes for sale in Ohio are available at all different price points with many options available from right on the water to ones with a view of the lake and surrounding areas.