Lakefront living is an incomparable way of life. It is a way of life that offers different things to different people.  “There is a feeling of serenity after waking up to a spectacular sunrise over the calm water,” says Ron Hollett, Associate Broker at RE/MAX Nova in Canada. “And in the evening, feeling the cool breeze on a boat ride while enjoying a spectacular sunset offers the same feeling all over again.”

Nova Scotia is the perfect location to embrace the allure of nature in a lakeside home while being a short distance away from the rich culture and heritage neighboring cities provide. Local sportsmen have the ability to fish from shore or boat on one of Nova Scotia’s largest lakes, and other residents can enjoy a leisurely swim in the warm water of the lakes. Close-by ocean beaches offer plenty of family friendly activities.

“The nearby cities are thriving,” says Hollett. Following a short 20-minute drive you can surround yourself with the theatre, various sports activities, shopping and night life entertainment. Slip back to the lake after a bustling day in the city for an evening of rest and relaxation.

One of the most charming properties on the market today is the stunning sprawling estate at 19 Narrows Lane on Porters Lake in Nova Scotia. This 5,873-square-foot, 7 bedroom, 6 bath home is fully furnished with a professionally equipped gym, heated pool and hot tub. The gated property offers privacy for residents as they coast along 250-feet of water frontage on the 26-foot Pontoon boat or Seadoos.

“Representing a significant portion of suburban Washington, D.C., northern Virginia’s proximity to the nation’s capital attracts a wonderful collection of successful and highly educated residents from across the country and around the world,” says Rob Carney, Vice President of TTR Sotheby’s International Realty. 

The social and cultural activities available, including the Smithsonian Museum, Kennedy Center and Foreign Embassies, to name just a few, assure a vast array of activities to keep residents entertained year round.  Several rail systems throughout the area allow for easy access to the nation’s capital, making the northern Virginia area the ideal location for D.C. area commuters looking for the suburban family lifestyle.

One property that fits the bill, located about an hour south of Washington, D.C. in Virginia’s Hunt Country, is the grand estate of Horsefields.  The main residence is an elegant stone manor with an expansive main level well suited for both grand entertaining and quiet relaxation. Two guest houses mirror the high standard of the main residence’s interior and there is garage parking for six cars.   Encompassing over 140 acres, the property boasts rolling hills, charming ponds and seven paddocks.  “The focal point of the equestrian facilities is an exquisite stone barn, with 14 stalls and two wash bays, which has been featured on the Hunt Country Stable Tour,” explains Rob.  “Over the past 5 years, Horsefields has undergone an extensive renovation which added luxurious finishes and modern mechanical systems while preserving the historic charm which exemplifies the grand estates of this community.”

Rich in history, Hampton Roads offers residents and visitors an array of museums, historic sites, wineries and breweries, and state parks to explore. In addition to cultural activities are numerous spas, theme parks, and outdoor activities.

“With thanks to the moderate weather and varying typography in Virginia, residents can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities from deep sea fishing and water sports to skiing in the mountains,” says Jeanne West, a REMAX Real Estate Specialist in Hampton Roads, Virginia.

On a day when outdoor activities are not appealing, you can travel to historic Williamsburg, catch a game at the University of Virginia in Charlottesville or unwind on Virginia Beach – all located in the Hampton Roads area. “The residents of Virginia are very friendly and open,” says Jeanne. “It is something I think can be attributed to the endless possibilities Virginia has to offer.”

One of the grandest available properties is a 6,700-square-foot home located in an elite golf course community on Broad Bay in Virginia Beach. The dramatically designed architecture evokes the feeling of a cruise ship with large bay windows with a flawless view of the waterfront. Amenities include an extensive recreation room, pool area and a walkway to the dock and boathouse.

“Lake Burton is quickly becoming the Lake Tahoe of the Southeast,” says Julie Barnett, a Realtor with Harry Norman, Realtors at Lake Burton. “Our location being within a 2-hour drive from Atlanta, Ashville and Greenville offers easy access and allows home owners to get away and relax for a weekend.”

Lake Burton is located in the northeast corner of Georgia, bordering the Carolinas. Rabun County, which Lake Burton is a part of, is 67-percent national forest and land owned by Georgia Power, therefore only 33 percent of this gorgeous landscape can be developed. “Our views are pristine,” Julie says. “We’re surrounded by untouched mountains and have 62 miles of shoreline on a 2775 acre lake.  It sets the stage for some dramatic sunsets.”

Residents and vacationers can enjoy many outdoor activities in Rabun County, “where spring spends the summer.” Waterfall hiking, biking, kayaking, trophy fishing for brown trout, rainbow trout and large-mouth bass in the rivers, lakes and streams are all staples of the Lake Burton lifestyle. Two marinas, beautiful golf courses, fine dining and trendy restaurants, spas, antique shopping and several wineries are close by for those who enjoy the finer things in life.

While part-time residents love vacationing to Lake Burton, it’s the full-time residents who reap all the benefits. Inspiring mountain views, shimmering clear waters, and mild temperatures can be enjoyed year-round, Julie notes. “The thing I love most about Lake Burton is that each morning when I wake up, there’s a different picture painted across the lake and sky.”

With 500 miles of shoreline, Smith Mountain Lake is one of Virginia’s most popular lakes. Its beauty is transcendent and explains why the lake is known as the “Jewel of the Blue Ridge Mountains.” “This lake can keep you grounded,” says Leslie Becker, broker at Smith Mountain Lake Properties. “You can do business anywhere, but this lake helps you keep your sanity and your lifestyle intact, unlike many other places.”

Convenience is one of the biggest perks of living in Smith Mountain Lake, because it’s an easy commute via the bullet train to Washington D.C. The airport is about 30 minutes away with direct flights leaving daily, a private airport if needed, and there is even the ease of having two teaching hospitals close by.

Virginia is one of the most beautiful states during spring and fall, but the lake’s beauty is never-ending throughout the seasons. There is an endless amount of water activities you can do anytime of the year, such as fishing, kayaking and sailing. Some of the land activities include hiking, triathlons, and huge equestrian centers available right at your fingertips. ”If you’re an active and outdoors person, this place will be your nirvana,” Leslie says. If you’re the cultural type, there’s the new Taub museum in Roanoke to explore. There are also 5 signature golf courses available 10 months out of the year.

The atmosphere is beautiful all year around, partly because the residents are some of the friendliest people you will meet on earth. No matter if you’re just visiting or a new resident, you will always feel welcome around here. Everyone that comes here will inevitably come back, because after vacationing here, it’s hard not to fall in love with this place!

Rich in history with a small-town ambience, Williamsburg is a destination for many buyers looking to enjoy all life has to offer. “We have an ideal location with tremendous amenities, but it is also the people that make this area a wonderful place to call home,” says Marley Numbers, Realtor with Long and Foster Realty. “They arrive here and bring with them great enthusiasm for the area, have wonderful life experiences to share, and embrace building new friendships.”

Residents of Williamsburg enjoy deep-water boating and fishing, championship golf, four temperate seasons, easy access to the mountains and the ocean, three international airports within an hour’s drive, and low tax rates. “People choose Williamsburg as a destination because it offers a lifestyle that has many of the attributes that they are seeking,” Marley says.

For those looking to take advantage of the current buyer’s market and an enjoyable lifestyle, Williamsburg is the place to go. “They search up and down the coast and across the country, but they return to Williamsburg because of our unique and very special attributes,” she says. “It’s a place where they will enjoy life and live it they way they have always dreamed of living it.”

Located on the Gulf of Mexico in South Florida, surrounded by sun-kissed beaches, luxury condos and estates, and world class shopping and dining experiences is Naples, a premier Florida destination.

In weather that is enjoyable year-round, residents and visitors of Naples can take pleasure in boating, rollerblading, bicycling and numerous beach activities. With the reputation of a golf-course mecca, Naples is a leading destination for golfers as well as home to an abundance of tennis courts.

 “Naples is the ideal community,” says Bill Earls, Broker and Director of John R. Wood Realtors in Naples. “It is a safe, clean and conservative place for one to quietly enjoy the success they have built, and it is tremendous environment for growing a family.” Naples is a beautiful place where you can live safely and peacefully. The medians are beautifully landscaped, and the city is delightfully pristine.

Naples is also well known for exceptional real estate. One of the city’s prime residences can be found at 3675 Gordon Drive in the elite Port Royal neighborhood. L ocated on the deep-water yacht basin, the French-Colonial style 7,395-square-foot has a stunning view. The home was designed to offer the perfect balance between formality and livability, according to Earls.

Bill Earls

John R. Wood Realtors
(239) 206-6622
www.billearls.com
bill@billearls.com

Featured property offered at $19,900,000

Article by Natalie Watson

“The impressive, yet comfortable architecture, combined with the incredible sweeping views all around are what makes the Aurora estate truly spectacular,” explains Neil Aberle, Estate Agent with H.G. Christie Ltd.  This stunningly beautiful property is awe-inspiring in its splendor and presence but, at the same time, radiates a sense of comfort and tranquility.

Located on the picturesque Great Abaco Island in the northern Bahamas, the entire estate was designed by American architect David Andreozzi of Andreozzi Architects.  “The design is a neo-traditional reinterpretation of the Bahamian architectural style,” says David, whose work has been featured on many HGTV programs, as well as in House Beautiful and Better Homes and Gardens, among many others.

The serene swimming pool and jacuzzi combine to form the centerpiece of the estate, inviting owners and guests to relax and enjoy the tropical oasis.  Surrounding this area is the main residence and two separate guest cottages.  The main home boasts a total of five bedrooms, with two complete master suites, all of which are located on the upper level.  Private, covered verandas on each suite allow for dramatic views of the Abaco golf course and Atlantic Ocean.  Turrets on each side of the main house overlook the ocean, golf course, Winding Bay and the marls.  The main level is equally magnificent with open fireplaces and high ceilings in the great room, which provides breathtaking water views.  Lavish furnishings and design details by the team at Taylor Interior Design create a relaxing, stylish and comfortable environment that will stand the test of time.  “Every room, every feature of the home has been chosen and built to the absolutely highest standards,” explains Neil.  “This is truly a unique and unmatchable investment opportunity for the discerning buyer of good taste!”

Offered at $5,950,000

Article by Jaime Hyneman

Considered one of the best small towns in America to live in, Bozeman, Montana rests on the lush, grass-filled Gallatin Valley, surrounded by five mountain ranges, a seemingly endless stretch of state and national forest lands with wonderful trails, and the sweetest water in the world. The area is full of open farm and ranch land, with a population where horses outnumber people.

As far as the area’s climate goes, “from mid May to the end of October, Bozeman is a paradise on earth,” says Sally Uhlmann, a local equestrian enthusiast and realtor with Pure West Properties/Christie's International Real Estate.  Sally also adds that the “winters make for the perfect opportunity to ski on a slew of gorgeous slopes in the neighboring Big Sky.”

Bozeman’s small town look and feel is all thanks to a downtown consisting of rows of turn-of-the-century buildings to the backdrop of majestic peaks and steep canyons. This centrally located community makes for an amazing launching point for exploring the stunning landscape. Whether your recreational interests include hiking or mountain biking park trails, fishing along nearby rivers, teeming with trout, or engaging in other aquatic sports such as canoeing and kayaking, or enjoying a number of equine disciplines, there is something for everyone!

From a housing standpoint, there is a great selection Equestrian real estate in the Gallatin Valley, which varies from small acreage to large ranches, some including live water or fishable ponds. Lastly, Sally says that concerning the housing market for the area, properties have decreased on an average of 30% from asking prices seen in 2006, however the market has stabilized and desirable properties are now trending upwards, making this an ideal time to buy a home in Montana and discover the beauty of old American west!

The featured property is located at 100 Horsetail Lane. Offered at $8,950,000



Article by Camille Rabbat 

Cape Cod, known by locals as “The Cape,” is a historic community located on the easternmost coast of Massachusetts, in the heart of the great Northeast.

“Cape Cod is made up of 15 wonderful towns, each with its own distinct look and feel,” says Chris Rhinesmith, a local resident and broker/owner of Pine Acres Realty. “The Cape’s old-fashioned, small-town feel and accessibility to the sea are its biggest draws, along with the beautiful landscape and the area’s bevy of coastal living activities. For many, coming to the Cape just to lie on the beach and unwind is a huge luxury.”

Residents have the pleasure of living in a very relaxed and carefree environment, says Chris, adding that, “Once you are over the bridge you are worlds away.” As far as the climate goes, the weather is milder in the winter and cooler in the summer compared to other northern counterparts.

Some of the area’s offerings include world-class resorts such as the Chatham Bars Inn and the Wequassett Inn and Resort. With the Cape’s close proximity to Nantucket and Martha’s Vineyard, day-trips to either are an easy option. Cape Cod is also home to many superb restaurants, theaters, art galleries, shops, and other luxurious options for day-trippers and yearlong and summer residents. Another draw to the area is the 300th anniversary of Chatham, which is expected to draw in visitors from all over this year.

While many cities are still suffering the effects of the economy, Cape Cod is thriving with home sales, most of which come from Pine Acres Realty. “In 2011, our company had the best year since our founding in 1948, and we were the No. 1 sales office in Cape Cod,” says Chris.

Featured property located on Seaview Street. Offered at $5,700,000

Contact information:
Chris Rhinesmith, Pine Acres Realty
(508) 945-1186
pineacresrealty.com
chris@pineacresrealty.com

Article by Camille Rabbat

Ocala, Fla., in the north-central part of the state, is a horseman’s utopia. It’s what brought Realtor Joan Pletcher to the area 27 years ago – her husband operates a thoroughbred-training facility – and that utopia also affords Joan the opportunity of placing great people with great properties which is her passion.  

The ranch lifestyle defines Ocala. The city and the surrounding towns of Marion County are rich with horse farms, ranches and equestrian

estates. The area’s rolling hills and tropical climate complement an outdoors-oriented lifestyle year-round.

In contrast to the pastoral qualities of the land, Ocala also offers fine dining and boutique shopping. “It also lends its residents a full calendar of social and artistic events and benefits,” Pletcher says.

It has the upscale and down-to-earth atmosphere that makes Ocala unique. “You can live in your dream home while still having acreage for your equestrian hobbies,” she says.

Perched on a knoll overlooking a rolling landscape and a picturesque spring-fed pond, a 5,000-sq.-ft. home epitomizes Ocala’s equestrian lifestyle. A gated entry and winding tree-lined drive lead to the main, five-bedroom residence. It boasts luxury amenities such as a chef’s kitchen with custom cabinets, a family room with built-in bookcases, high-end finishes like beveled glass, crown molding and high ceilings. The first-floor master suite is afforded privacy, as the other four bedrooms are on the second floor. A bright, glassed-in porch opens to colorful gardens surrounding the pool.

The property also includes a two-bedroom guest house that has a large great room and a screened porch overlooking the pond. An equestrian barn contains private living quarters. 

Offered at $4,599,000

Article by Kendra Gemma

Bonita Springs is both a city and a community that is opportunely located on the southwest coast of Florida, halfway between Fort Myers and Naples. “The best thing about Bonita Springs is its location,” says Barry DeNicola Sr., long-time resident and owner of Barry DeNicola Realty. “Living so close to two major cities just makes the day-to-day living experience much more convenient because both cities are less than a 30-minute drive away.

Bonita Springs has the feel of a tropical island: warm weather by the day and comfortable, cool breezes by night, yet it still has all the amenities of an urban setting without the usual overdevelopment seen in major cities. This unbelievable weather is perfect for the available activities, such as boating, fishing, other water-related activities, and golfing. There are two easily accessible beaches, Barefoot Beach and Bonita Beach. Both provide you with heavenly, white sand and turquoise aqua water, completing the ideal fairytale setting to this already magical, private world.

“There are many lifestyle choices when choosing the home that best suits your needs, including but not limited to beach properties, living properties, and golf properties,” Barry says. With so many lifestyle choices in such a serene, well-situated place, people may find their only problem is not wanting to leave such a brilliant, unspoiled place!

Article by Tabitha Baez

Nevada is easily associated with the bright lights of the never-sleeping Las Vegas Strip or the exhilarating adventures found on ski trips in Lake Tahoe. One of the best-kept secrets of  The Silver State is nestled between three mountain ranges in northern Nevada.

The alluring Trident Farms sprawls 1,800 acres and is just a 4-hour drive between Reno, Nevada and Boise, Idaho. The farm offers residents and visitors the utmost privacy, breathtaking views of lush green alfalfa pastures and mountain peaks, and a neighborly community of antelope, deer and big horn sheep. “Life slows down when you are out here,” says Dolan Miller, owner of Trident Farms.

Trident Farms, listed at $7,979,000, is a great farming and hunting retreat for residents and guests. “Our goal was to have a place where grandkids could come during the summers and have a great time riding in tractors and learning about country life,” says Miller.

Among the property’s many amenities are five houses, a 1,000-yard shooting range, a private dirt landing strip and hundreds of miles of Jeep and ATV trails. The property also has high-speed Internet, an unusual and exciting convenience considering the distant to major cities.

“There is something that is hard to explain when you live or visit the farm hunting retreat. You get to own something that very few people will ever have.”

Dolan Miller
Owner, Trident Farms
775-557-4595
tridentfarms@gmail.com

John Knipe
Knipe Land Company, Inc.
208-647-3225
www.johnknipe.com
knipelandcompany.com

Article by Natalie Watson
Photo credit to knipeland.com

Restore your soul today with this masterpiece manor, the LoveStone Inn, located on the shores of Smith Mountain Lake, Virginia. While the lake itself is known as the “Jewel of the Blue Ridge,” LoveStone Inn could easily be the “Jewel of Smith Mountain Lake.”

“This inn is different from other estates in Smith Mountain Lake due to the six acres of grounds, beautiful two-tiered beach, no-wake cove, and private neighborhood,” say Dawn Spencer and Tom Zirkelbach, current owners of LoveStone Inn. “In addition, the architecture is unique and unlike anything you will find around the lake area.”

Built as a private residence in 1977, the property now serves as the LoveStone Inn Bed and Breakfast and the PebbleStone Cottage and Conference Center. “We moved from Chicago to Virginia with a dream of being on Smith Mountain Lake and running a premier bed and breakfast,” say Dawn and Tom. The bed and breakfast has become just that – LoveStone Inn has been voted the “Best Place to Stay Overnight” on Smith Mountain Lake every year from 2003 to 2011.

The inn features four guest rooms, four full bathrooms, three large living spaces, a custom, gourmet kitchen with granite counters, two decks encompassing 2,500 square feet, and a hot tub. Just 100 feet away, the cottage has over 1,400 square feet with a master bedroom, massive loft great room, full bathroom, custom kitchen, laundry room, and storage room.

With two tiered beachfronts and a boat dock, the location is perfect for boating, kayaking, sailing, or fishing. Antiquing and wineries are favorite pastimes of Dawn and Tom, and Smith Mountain State Park is a short walk from their front door. Though the grounds are peaceful and private, you can enjoy city amenities with a quick 40-minute drive to Roanoke or Lynchburg.

“This lifestyle has renewed our faith in people, places and brought us peace of mind,” the couple says. “LoveStone Inn can bring a renewal of spirit and peace that is rare in the world we live in. It must be seen to believe.”

For more information:

Leslie Becker
Smith Mountain Lake Properties
540-797-0477
Leslie@SmithMountainLakeProperties.org

Articel by Nicole Lauber

Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
By Natalie Watson

Set between the Intracoastal Waterway and the Atlantic Ocean is Hilton Head Island, a reputable resort community off the coast of South Carolina. Exquisite homes sit on the 11-mile stretch of smooth sandy beaches along the Atlantic Ocean side of the island. Private residences, or “plantations” like Wexford Plantation and Long Cove Club, are one of the island’s best-kept secrets along the Intracoastal Waterway.

“Hilton Head is surrounded by natural beauty and strives to be an eco-friendly community,” says Steve Timperman, broker with Charter One Realty on Hilton Head Island. Its year-round gorgeous weather makes family-friendly recreational activities like biking, running, golfing, tennis and boating popular pastimes for residents and visitors.

Southern hospitality characterizes the approximately 36,000 full-time residents of Hilton Head Island. The island is inviting and offers a relaxed, unpretentious and secure environment.  The island is rich in culture and diversity, attracting people all over the world. Many visitors like it so much they become residents. “Seven days is just not enough to scratch the surface,” says Timperman.

A mending real estate market and booming rentals makes it a great time to buy on Hilton Head. One of the island’s premier residences can be found at 55 Bridgetown Road, behind the gates of the exclusive Wexford Plantation, a community featuring a private-controlled lock system marina, Arnold Palmer Signature golf course, tennis and clubhouse. The 6,727-square-foot home sits on the harbor with astounding marina and golf views. Amenities include a rooftop deck with kitchen and fireplace, two Jacuzzis that flow into the black- bottom swimming pool, a seven-car garage and 70-foot private boat dock.

Offered at $3,795,000

Charter 1 Realty & Marketing
Steve Timperman
843-686-8800
steve@stevetimperman.com
www.stevetimperman.com