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affordable price. These homes are also rentable, making it even easier to afford,” added Carter. L ONG -T ERM L AKE I NVESTMENT Carter and O’Brien have been selling homes on and around the lake for five and three years respectively. Both feel that the market is as strong as they’ve ever seen it. The two are always hesitant to discuss return on investment with buyers since the market can shift quickly. However, they say most of their clients have made money on their investments. In fact, the most recent real estate report for Lake Martin shows a signifi- cant increase in value year over year. The median price for waterfront homes was $502,000, an increase of 29.5% from one year ago. Real estate experts believe low inventory levels were a contributing factor for the rising sales prices. Because of that, homes are selling faster than in previous years. A H OME A WAY F ROM H OME “There is a real sense of community on and around Lake Martin,” said O’Brien. “Not just the people who live here year-round, but the people who come here to get away. They keep it up, take care of it and make it a good place to spend time.” That feeling of camaraderie is ultimately why out-of-town families, like the Langhams, decide to make Lake Martin their home away from home. After a weeks-long search, the two decided to build a new lake home. “It came down to our tastes. We didn’t find what we were looking for, so building made the most sense for us,” said Langham. “I’m looking forward to the day I can wake up, walk outside and sip my cup of coffee while looking out over the water,” she added. n You can contact Windy Carter and Mindy O’Brien of Three-Sixty Resort Living on Lake Martin at 256-827-LAKE or online at concepttoclosing.com/locations/lake- martin Find us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter JUNE 2019 47