Spotlight: Unraveling Lake Geneva
Away from the city lights of Chicago and Milwaukee, in the vibrant stretch of Southeast Wisconsin, you'll find an oasis of tranquility and charm - Lake Geneva. We recently sat down with Don Shea, the Managing Broker of @properties Lake Geneva office, to unravel the story of this charming community and its flourishing real estate market.
Geneva Lake, as it's officially known, is the heart of this community, attracting sailors, anglers, and nature enthusiasts alike. Its allure is heightened by the absence of light pollution, making Lake Geneva an observatory like no other. Over the years, Lake Geneva has been a magnet for families looking for an escape from city life. "Some families moved here generations ago, and their great-great-grandkids are still coming up here," says Shea.
A testament to the region's enduring appeal is the Aloha Lodge. Built in 1900 by the family responsible for the Drake and Blackstone hotels, this iconic home stayed within the family for over three decades. Surrounded by 12 acres of picturesque land, this magnificent property is a beacon of the idyllic lifestyles offered throughout the Lake Geneva area.
The enchanting allure of Lake Geneva isn't confined to the water. Venturing into the community reveals a lifestyle rich in both activity and relaxation. The Lake Shore Path is a beloved trail offering an intimate view of historic homes melding with the new, extending around the lake for nearly 26 miles. Away from the path, numerous golf courses, such as Abbey Springs and those found at Grand Geneva and Geneva National lure golf enthusiasts with their vast greens and convenient access.
The community also keeps local customs alive, including the beloved tradition of Friday night fish fries. Shea states, "There’s something indescribably Wisconsin about it. And what's even more amazing is the astonishment of newcomers from out of state when they discover what's been hiding in plain sight. It's that delightful surprise element that makes the community so special."
Over the years, Lake Geneva's real estate market has seen robust growth, cementing its reputation as a prime location for home buyers and investors. Shea attributes this surge in part thanks to the pandemic when many flocked the hidden treasure within Southeast Wisconsin. The region's diverse outdoor offerings, coupled with a highly competitive real estate market have made it a hub for new residents and investors alike.
Shea notes that properties with lakefront, lake rights, or access to piers are highly sought-after, but residences in well-knit communities like Geneva National, a golf resort with a close-knit community vibe, are gaining popularity as well.
Despite the community's steady evolution, the Lake Geneva community retains an appealing appeal. As Shea puts it, "One of the amazing things about Southeast Wisconsin, about Lake Geneva, is that a lot of it is still a secret." However, it's a secret that's gradually being uncovered, as more people fall in love with the natural beauty, laid-back lifestyle, and friendly community that makes Lake Geneva an irresistible place to call home.