1. Introduction
Summertime is here, which means you’re likely dreaming about a waterside getaway as much as we are. With the growing interest in vacation homes, you might even be fantasizing about a lake home of your very own.
2. Top Affordable Lakefront Communities
Real estate website Trulia explored the 20 most-searched zip codes for lakefront real estate, focusing on communities with at least 25% of the housing market featuring affordable vacation homes. This includes areas like:
- Streetman, Texas: A small town roughly an hour outside Dallas.
- Wedowee, Alabama: A picturesque location about 90 minutes from Birmingham.
- Ellston, Iowa: A quaint community located 90 minutes from Des Moines.
3. Exploring Kauneonga Lake
One of the most charming locations on the list is Kauneonga Lake, New York, located just two hours outside of New York City.
As noted by Trulia, “In Kauneonga Lake, a hamlet in the artsy town of Bethel (famous as the site of Woodstock), you’ll find flower-filled gardens surrounding White Lake. The Children’s Peace Garden is a lovely place for families to enjoy, and there’s a variety of local cafes, bars, and bistros along Kauneonga Lake’s small restaurant row.”
4. Local Attractions and Activities
In Kauneonga, visitors, part-time, and full-time residents can explore nearby landmarks such as the Bethel Woods Center for the Arts, located about 10 minutes from the lake. The center features a museum that celebrates the 1960s, with an emphasis on the iconic Woodstock festival. Guests can also attend events at the center, including guided tours and concerts.
Additionally, outdoor spaces like Walnut Mountain Park offer over 260 acres of lush land, featuring 13 miles of hiking and biking trails.
5. Dining and Culinary Experiences
Kauneonga Lake boasts several noteworthy dining establishments along the town’s “restaurant row.” Notable mentions include:
- The Local Table and Tap: Specializes in American fare made with locally sourced ingredients.
- Benji & Jakes: A pizza shop known for classic and innovative pies.
6. Real Estate Insights
So, how much does it cost to own a vacation home in this picturesque community? According to Trulia, “While a two-bedroom, two-bathroom home near restaurant row will set you back $599,000, you can also find a three-bedroom cabin near the water in the White Lake Homes subdivision for $174,900.”
Current listings range from an $82,000 5.2-acre property ready to build on, to a $190,000 three-bedroom cabin, or a $499,000 three-bed, two-bath home situated on 3.18 private acres.
