Tis’ the Season at Smith Mountain Lake

The peak of fall is upon Smith Mountain Lake! The leaves are at the height of their autumn display of colors. The wineries have finished the fall crush and the wonder of wine making is well underway. Boat owners are contemplating whether to brave the cold or winterize their boats. As the weather cools, lake activity begins to slow. This all adds up to one conclusion: tis’ the season… to buy that vacation home!


One of the best times to purchase a vacation home is during the off season. After enjoying one last peak season, sellers will put their property on the market. This makes it a good time to get a great deal on a lakefront home! So why put Smith Mountain Lake at the top of your list? Oh, let us count the ways!!

Seasons of Fun!

Many of the things real estate experts will tell you to look in buying a second home can be found right here on the lake! The first tip is to get the most “bang for your buck.” You want to find a location that boasts a long season for the things you want to enjoy. At Smith Mountain Lake you can enjoy golfing, fishing and hiking year round, weather permitting. The boating season is a long one; you can even look for properties from the water while enjoying a cruise on the Virginia Dare! This side paddlewheel replica cruises the Lake from April – December, ending with the big holiday Flotilla for Toys parade!! And that is just the outdoor activities! With award winning restaurants and so much more in the area, it is very hard to get bored at the Lake!

Retire to the Lake!

Another tip for purchasing a vacation home is considering your retirement. When most people retire, they sell their primary residence and second home and begin to look for that perfect place to retire. We have that covered too! Smith Mountain Lake is a wonderful place to retire! There are many different types of communities and homes to choose from. Retirement here means whatever you want it to! Lazy days spent enjoying the view or fishing. Or you can take in the arts and history of the surrounding area. You can enjoy nature hikes, golfing, sailing and horseback riding for a more active lifestyle. We haven’t even mentioned the vineyards!! The list just goes on and on!!

Come See in Off Season

The last tip of the day in buying a second home is visit in the off season. Some resort locations become a wasteland in the off season. You do not want to buy a family vacation home in an area that will be abandoned after the peak season. Smith Mountain Lake is a booming community all year round. Having a neighbor who will keep an eye on things when you aren’t around is a great thing! If you want to check out Smith Mountain Lake in the off season, then you should come on November 7th! You can enjoy the SML Fall Chili and Craft Festival while you are here!

If you are ready to start looking for your vacation home on the Lake, call Vicki Millehan! Whether you are looking to buy a home in a planned community or buying a winery of your own, her team can help you find the home you are looking for! There is something to enjoy in every season at Smith Mountain Lake!