Georgia’s Lake Country Real Estate Magazine Jan/Mar 2023

Kim Logan

Greetings from Georgia’s Lake Country! We are still in the midst of an unprecedented real estate market. As you remember, COVID brought a brief dip in our market which was quickly followed by a huge interest in buyers looking to escape urban areas and colder weather climates. Of course, Lake Oconee and Lake Sinclair became very attractive to them. As a result, property started selling rapidly to the point where homes were going under contract for at or over asking price, and in some cases sight unseen by the buyers. This led to a big reduction in inventory and rapidly rising prices for our real estate. With our great climate, convenient location and “world-class” amenities, our area become one of the hottest places to relocate to in the country. In my 20 years of real estate in the lake country, I have never seen more demand and escalating values in this market!

This trend continued throughout last year (2021). Currently (2022), our market is still in an under supply situation. It appears demand slowed somewhat in the early part of the year which was to be expected, however, with summer here, an expanded buyer pool from younger people working out of the home and all the factors listed above, we expect our market to remain “HOT” for the rest of this year.

Today’s buyers are using technology heavily to purchase real estate. Typically they are doing a lot research and selection through the internet, but still

have a need for guidance from a competent realtor. This many times includes virtual guidance as well as the traditional research and showings we are all familiar with. Handling a real estate transaction virtually can be even more stressful and more detailed than ever. From the initial questions, through the closing process, technology does not replace the need for a great realtor and in fact may be even more important.

Lake Oconee and Lake Sinclair have seen many changes over the years and no doubt will see many more in the future. I have been through them all and can assure you our team has evolved with the community and technology to make sure we remain the most skilled team in this market. We are ready to show you our Southern Hospitality and put our expertise to work for you by land, lake or air!

From our initial consultation to the closing, Kim and Lin were very professional and kept us informed of all aspects of the process. They are experts in the local market and got us a fair price for our home. We would use them again.

— markchupp, Zillow.com

Maddie was fantastic to work with starting from day one. She understood our needs and what we were looking for in a house on the lake. And, although there has been limited inventory she stayed patient and continued to work until we found our home. This is our 5th home purchase in 3 different states and by far this was the best experience. Maddie is the best and we can’t say enough about her services and support. Moreover she is a quality individual and we are glad to call her a friend.

— ruben flores8, Zillow.com

I have known Kim and Lin Logan for many years, and they have helped me with several transactions. The most recent being a lot in Great Waters. No one knows Lake Oconee like Kim and Lin, and no one will be as honest and as efficient in the process, and th Kim and Lin Logan team! Don even bother to talk to other realtors. They are the best!

—

Wendy Cook, Zillow.com

Kim and Lin Logan were very easy to work with when we purchased our home. Lin was our agent and he made sure we were informed on all aspects of the buying process. They are very professional and we would highly recommend them.

— Brett Cummings

Christy Barbee of the Kim and Lin Logan Team was amazing to work with. We initially requested a realtor through Zillow as we were driving around the area on a Sunday afternoon and just happen to find a house we were interested in looking at. Within minutes, we got a call from Christy and she showed us the house we requested and then had other one she thought we would be interested in. We were very impressed with her knowledge of the area her responsiveness, we asked her to be our realtor to help us find out perfect lake house. Being 1.5 hours

away, Christy was awesome in helping schedule the inspection, etc. and being at the house to meet service providers as needed. We definitely recommend anyone who wants an honest and knowledgeable realtor to work with Christy Barbee with Kim and Lin Logan Team!

— Bruce Worre

What an incredible team!!! They handled so much and made an extremely challenging process and made it easy!

— Gina White, Google Review

Best choice I ever made was to list my home with Kim and Lin. Great communication and a very smooth transaction both selling and buying. Kim, Maddie and Laura were all great and I can not thank all of you enough.

— Terrie Mountjoy, Google Review

After a year of sending us listings that helped us figure out what we wanted and could afford, Jennifer acted immediately when we finally found what we were looking for. She secured a contract and then walked us through all the paperwork and was encouraging and available whenever we had a question. In addition she gave us SO MUCH information about living on the lake, how to get around, who to call for services and so much more. She was awesome. I highly recommend Jennifer as well as Kim &Lin Logan realty.

— Jean Humphreys, Google Review

We can’t say enough about our realtor from Kim and Lin Logan Real-estate , Laura Buttimer. Laura helped us find just the right place. We knew nothing about Lake Oconee, Laura was patient, listened to what or goals were in a lake home, what our price range was, and general location we thought we were looking for. Laura never pressured us or showed us property that was out of our budget range or didn’t have the characteristics we were looking for. Her knowledge of the lake and expertise on the possibilities and the limitations of each property we looked at helped us pick just the right one for our family. Thank you Laura. We would recommend you to anyone looking for a place on Lake Oconee.

— Mark and Debbie Gilbert

We have over 400 5-star reviews Why would you go with anyone else?

Kim and Lin Logan have been the top selling agents in Lake Oconee and Lake Sinclair for the past two decades. They provide their clients with the highest level of customer service possible, specializing in luxury homes, lakefront lots, golf homes, condos/ townhomes and more near Greensboro

and in Georgia’s lake country. They are dedicated to their community and also run a non-profit charitable organization called Brittney Cares in honor of their daughter lost in a tragic lake accident. This charity donates tens of thousands of dollars locally to those experiencing devastating life circumstances.

Gordon was immersed in real estate from an early age and developed a deep appreciation for the industry, and knew one day he’d pursue a career as a Realtor. Gordon joins a deep passion for real estate with a professional character honed by years of excellence in corporate customer service.

With an eye for interior design and a genuine love for helping others, Lisa harmonizes her gifts with knowledge gained from years of building homes with her husband. She believes she has found her niche as a Realtor and greatly enjoys lavishing exemplary customer service to her clients.

Jen became a Licensed Realtor at Lake Oconee in 1998 and has a vast knowledge of the great people of Lake Oconee from her experience in home and property sales, Verizon sales, and from her home decor and gift store business, along with those she meets through her childrens attendance at LOA.

Laura’s passion for the Lake Country began in 2003 when she won a sales award trip to the Ritz Carlton at Lake Oconee and fell in love with the community. Her business and real estate sales experience, combined with 10+ years at the lake, allows her to apply that knowledge to guide clients to find their perfect lake home.

Lisa Phillips

Laura Buttimer Jen Hardeman

Kim and Lin Logan with Anna the Amphicar

Gordon Deeds

No one knows the lake country like an area native, and Traci is an expert not only at Lake Oconee but also at Lake Sinclair, and the beautiful historic towns that surround each. 100% committed to her buyers, every client enjoys the benefits of her dedication & accessibility.

Madison Zak

Madison Zak grew up in the Lake Country, loving lake life and helping her mom, Kim, with real estate. After graduating college, Maddie returned to the lake she loves to sell the lifestyle. She brings enthusiasm, a wealth of knowledge, and and a strong work ethic to advocate for her buyers.

Christy Barbee

Christy Barbee is a recent addition to the Kim and Lin Logan Real Estate Team. She spent the last 10+ years in a customer-service oriented position at the Ritz and fell in love with real estate after purchasing two properties of her own. Christy was recruited by one of our agents who saw her outstanding potential.

Mark Watkins

Mark decided to pursue this passion for real estate after retiring from a lengthy career as Director of Aviation for a Fortune 200 company. His experience has taught him how to provide world-class service and attention to detail. He passes his service excellence to his clients while introducing them to the lake lifestyle he loves so much.

Kailyn Odum

As a native to Lake Oconee, Kailyn is extremely knowledgeable about the lake and surrounding communities. She prides herself on her professionalism, work ethic, and customer service. She ensures that her clients receive the best representation in each and every step of the real estate transaction and beyond.

Sherry Kranick

Previously focused on providing excellent service in Atlanta as well as the Lake, but is now solely focused on helping others realize their dream of home ownership here at the Lake Country. She combines her background in finance and her “servants heart” to effectively guide her clients through the home buying and selling process.

Tank Logan

Tank is an 8-year old English bulldog who takes his position of company mascot with great sense of respect and responsibility. He has worn hats, glasses, holiday costumes and feather boas with pride since he was just a pup. He is the third English Bulldog to join the real estate team. He can often be seen in the office visiting the agents.

Traci Nelson

2022 YEAR-END REVIEW

LAKE SINCLAIR Year-end market update

Happy Holidays! 2022 was also a busy year at Lake Sinclair. Demand continued to be good throughout the year with buyers still showing a lot of interest in our market. Inflation, rising prices and a shortage of inventory did slow sales compared to 2021. So, as you might expect, the Lake Sinclair market trends were very similar to the Lake Oconee market trends. The following market update is derived from the Lake Sinclair Multiple Listing Service and includes Residential Properties, Land/Lots & Commercial properties in Baldwin, Putnam and Hancock Counties.

At this point in 2022, with just a few weeks to go, there have been 890 property sales for a total sales volume of $210,543,723. This is a decrease of 15-20% from this time in 2021. For transactions, (1,071 this time last year), and sales volume ($41 million more in 2021). Median days on market remained about the same for 2022 (30 days) compared to 2021 (27 days)

Lakefront property sales in particular remained strong in 2022. The average selling price in 2022 was $509,057, compared to $443,866 in 2021 (an increase of 13%). Median days on market for 2022 was 23 days, compared to 17 days for 2021.

It’s noteworthy to mention that Lake Sinclair continued to bring an increased demand for high end homes in 2022. Last

year, MORE THAN ANY OTHER YEAR, Lake Sinclair saw 16 homes sell for a price above 1 million dollars. On average these higher priced homes sold for $1.4 million with a highest listing price of $2.2 million. WOW! This is a definite increase from 2021 where there were 11 homes sold above $1 million dollars for an average selling price of $1.2 million, and a highest listing price of $1.4 million. Both years, these homes were not on the market long either - 32 days in 2021 and 57 days in 2022.

In summary, The Lake Sinclair 2022 real estate market had a decrease in units sold and volume sold with an increase in the average price of a home. Lakefront sales especially remained strong and the Lake Sinclair area experienced HISTORIC highend sales!

If you would like more information on the market or to pick our brain on where things are going in 2023, CALL the Kim and Lin Logan Team. We love to talk real estate! Selling the Lifestyle at Lake Sinclair & Lake Oconee is WHAT WE DO BEST! Our company continues to succeed with our proven strategy of: #1) Agents with unmatched market knowledge, #2) The highest possible customer service - JUST READ OUR REVIEWS!, and #3) the MOST AGGRESSIVE and innovative marketing available.

LAKE OCONEE Year-end market update

HAPPY HOLIDAYS! We hope this 2022 market update finds you and your family in good health and spirit! As always at this time of year, we want to stop and give thanks for living in the greatest country on earth and for the sacrifices of our military personnel who make that possible. God bless them and their families this holiday season

A special shout out to our wonderful clients who we now consider friends. Thanks to your business, we were able to donate a portion of our commissions to our company charity

(BRITTNEY CARES) throughout 2022. Our charity focuses on helping local people and charities with much needed cash in their time of need. In addition to helping several local individuals who experienced heart breaking tragedy, Brittney Cares donated to the Pete Nance Boys and Girls Club, Greene County Humane Society, St. Marys Hospital, Sheppards Spinal Hospital, Wake for Warriors, Atlas scholarship fund, and we were able to provide some cheer and gifts to the 648th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade of the Georgia Army National Guard that were stationed

in the middle east. Hearing the stories of these folks and organizations warmed our hearts and was truly a highlight of our year!

The lake area continued to grow and expand in 2022. Several new business opened and several more announced they are coming soon. The golf course communities continued to thrive and expand. Construction and building continued at a high level. The year was filled with lots of exciting events including a national championship for the nearby Georgia Bulldog football team. With all this positive energy, we were not immune from problems other parts of the country saw including rising prices/ costs, a shortage of workers and an increase in traffic volume. All in all, 2022 was an exciting and busy year for what continues to be one of the fastest growing and best places in the country to live!

The Lake area real estate market, like the overall US economy, had mixed results in 2022. As we discussed in previous newsletters, COVID accelerated several demographic and market trends that were already in place: a shift to working at home as opposed to going to an office, people wanting to escape the city and all the associated problems, a shift to warmer climates and people choosing where the want to live based on lifestyle. On the positive side, all of these trends were still in place in 2022 and continued to lead buyers to our market throughout the year. On the negative side, the overall economy

struggled in 2022 with rising inflation, rising interest rates and a stagnant stock market. In our real estate market, home sales were down 15-20%, there continued to be a shortage of existing homes available and lot sales were down 30%. However, home prices continued to increase in 2022 with the average home price going up 16% to $725,000. The net result (declining sales and an increase in price) was an overall 7% drop in the total volume of real estate sales in 2022 ($936,686,227 as of 12/13/2022).

Of course, the big question is what is coming in 2023! There is nothing to indicate that the positive trends that have caused our market to go up will diminish in the short term. As a result, we think our market will continue to be attractive to buyers and keep demand up. What will happen with inflation, interest rates and the overall economy is anybody’s guess.

Bottom line for SELLERS = It is critical that you utilize an agent who KNOWS the market and KNOWS HOW TO GET YOUR HOME SOLD for top dollar! This includes accurate and realistic pricing, exceptional marketing and expert negotiating. Bottom line for BUYERS = It is critical you utilize an agent that will be pro-active in finding you property and an expert at getting you the best possible price for it. WE ARE THE BEST IN THE LAKE OCONEE MARKET with almost two decades as the top selling realtors and an unprecedented number of exceptional reviews. Don’t take my work for it, go on-line and see for yourself!

Here is a snap-shot of the 2021/2022 Lake Oconee real estate market (AS OF 12/13/2022)

Over $87,000 donated

The Kim & Lin Logan Team were recognized by the 648th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade (Georgia Army National Guard) for their recent, and ongoing, support of deployed and deploying Soldiers. Major Brett Thomas, Officer in Charge for his team’s upcoming deployment, presents a flag flown at Camp Arifjan, Kuwait. The flag was flown in honor of the Brittney Cares Foundation who has provided care packages for Soldiers currently deployed and has supported Major Thomas’ element as they conduct pre-deployment training. Major Thomas and team will be departing soon to replace other Soldiers from the 648 th who will be completing their mission. The Kim & Lin Logan Team recognizes the commitment that the Citizen Soldiers of the National Guard make on a daily basis as they balance civilian careers, military service, and family. They also acknowledge the stress and dedication that is placed on family members who assume the duties of home life while their loved ones are away. It takes a community to support those that support us here at home. Major Thomas and Colonel Kris Marshall (648 th MEB Commander and also pictured), along with their families, are residents and an integral part of our local community. Each of them has over 20 years of service in the Georgia Army National Guard. We look forward to welcoming the currently deployed Soldiers back home and continuing the support of Major Thomas and the men and women of the Georgia Army National Guard who are doing amazing work across the state and across the globe.

From the 648 th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade:

This is the time of year that we gather to enjoy the bonds of family and friendship. As always, we thankthe Kim & Lin Logan Team for your friendship and support. Because of the donations of your Brittney Cares foundation, we wanted to share the impact that you are enabling across the community. Earlier this year, you supported the men and women of the Georgia Army National Guard’s 648th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade who were deployed across the globe. Because of the continued generosity of the entire team, we are once again able to make a difference in the lives of others through Brittney Cares.

This holiday season you have supported the families of 79 deployed Soldiers in the form of a $5,000 donation. Their spouses bravely and selflessly assume both household roles while their Soldier is deployed and shoulder the challenges of childcare, school, sports, careers, and all the unforeseen items that arise during deployments. These spouses and children will receive a little something in hopes of reducing the stress and making their holidays a little brighter. We want you to know that as critical members of the Kim & Lin Logan team, you have helped make this happen and that you continue to impact the lives of others. Thank you for your support as you continue to honor Brittney’s memory through service and giving!

Thomas Hawk

A fire claimed the life of local archery instructor Thomas Hawk while trying to save is son Eric from the blaze engulfing their famly home. His wife Amanda, daughter Mackenzie and son Eric (who is recovering from smoke inhalation) are grief stricken over the loss of Thomas as well as their home. We send not only healing prayers to this family, but also support fundraising efforts by donating $4,000 to help replace their basic necessities. If you would like to donate to the Hawk Family, visit: www.gofund. me/aaad62e7

to local families to date!

DeMarkeo Towles

26 year old DeMarkeo Towles was a victim of a head-on collision this past October that has left him with severe injuries that required metal plates and screws to repair. He is thankful to be alive and is undergoing physical therapy at Putnam General Hospital. He continues to be grateful for the financial support and prayers.

St. Mary’s Heart & Soul

Mary’s Good Samaritan Hospital.

Cumberland Academy of Georgia

Debbi and Matthew Scarborough originally founded Cumberland Academy of Georgia because of their son Steven Scarborough. Steven, who has Asperger’s Syndrome, attended public school through his 5th grade year. During this time, Debbi and Matthew felt Steven needed an environment where he could not only be challenged academically, but also taught the tools to overcome his social challenges. After much work and research, Debbi and Matthew started Cumberland Academy of Georgia in 2007. The Kim and Lin Logan team are proud to support this wonderful organization. You can find out more about Comberland Academy at ww.cumberlandacademy.org.

Brittney Cares, LLC is a 501(3)(c) charity organization. A receipt for your donations will be provided. Thank you for your generosity.

To donate to Brittney Cares, contact Kim at 706-338-0757 or kimlogankw@gmail.com

Pete Nance Boys & Girls Club

JANUARY

Jan 4

New Years Party @ Dell Webb Lake Oconee

1071 Cottonwood Trace, Greensboro

Time: 5pm

Rockin’ Del Webb at Lake Oconee with music by TwisteD HipsterZ for New Years 2023... Live At 5!!!

Jan 6w

The Wildflowers – A Tom Petty Tribute

Oconee Brewing Company, 202 N. West St, Greensboro

Time: 8 - 10pm

“Who doesn’t love Tom Petty?” bassist Darryell Stone asked himself one day in 2012 while listening to the radio. There was only one answer he could imagine, ‘nobody.’ Testing his hypothesis, Stone polled friends, family and fellow musicians how they felt about Petty. The result was always the same. Everyone loves Tom Petty.”This is a 18 and older concert in our Event Center. Beer, wine, and hard seltzer are not included in the price of a ticket. For more information, call 706-920-1177 or visit www. oconeebrewingco.com/event-center

Jan 13

Purple Madness

Oconee Brewing Company, 202 N. West St, Greensboro

Time: 8 - 10pm

Purple Madness – A Prince Tribute by Bobby Miller – is returning to Oconee Brewing Company!

This is an 18 and older concert in our Event Center. Beer, wine, and hard seltzer are not included in the price of a ticket. For more information, call 706-920-1177 or visit www.oconeebrewingco.com/event-center

Jan 19

Student Series: Mario the Magician

Madison-Morgan Cultural Center, 434 South Main St., Madison

Time: 9:30am – 1:00pm

Mario “the Maker Magician” Marchese is a first generation Italian-American, New York-based touring performer, author, and maker, known for his unique brand of Robot Magic. He infuses DIY electronics and robotics into his work and uses magic to inspire kids and families to make and create without limitation. For more information, visit www.mmcc-arts.org/event-list/student-series-mariothe-magician

FEBRUARY

Feb 4

8th Annual “Do Tell” Family Storytelling Festival

Madison-Morgan Cultural Center, 434 South Main St., Madison

Time: 10:00am – 12:00pm

This year’s Storytelling Festival will feature the talents of Carol Cain, our Emcee, Antonio Rocha, and Andy Offutt Irwin. These tellers will be bringing their comical and heart-warming tales that will bring joy to your soul. For more information, visit www.mmcc-arts.org/event-list/ gkyd1aa9e37e0xtu2ccys1w8ylcdzr

Feb 4

2023 Michael Feinstein music

The Plaza Arts Center, 305 North Madison Ave, Eatonton

Time: 7:00 – 10:00pm

Michael Jay Feinstein is an American singer, pianist, and music revivalist. He is an archivi st and interpreter for the repertoire known as the Great American Songbook. For more information, visit www.tix.com/ticket-sales/opas/4689/ event/1234173

MARCH

Mar 18

The Brew & Que / Lake Oconee Food & Wine Festival 2023

The Ritz Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee, 1 Lake Oconee Trail, Greensboro

Time: 11:30am – 2:00pm

Time:

& spirits. The Grand Tasting features a charity auction, including trips to unique destinations, gourmet dinners, sporting packages and more. For more information, visit www.lakeoconeefoodandwine.com/festival-events

Mar 25

Annual Sweet Tooth Festival

Madison Lions Club, 1311 Fairground Road, Madison

Time: 12:00pm – 5:00pm

Madison, Georgia’s Sweet Tooth Festival brought to you by the Madison Lions Club is fun for the entire family. Cake samples, performances, arts and crafts, games, food, music and more.

For more information, madisongalionsclub@gmail.com

Kris