When new residents ask me how long I’ve lived at Lake Oconee, my answer is usually met with a bit of surprise. While I’m not the oldest of the “old-timers,” having lived here since 2007 means I remember the days of Jerry’s Bait & Tackle, the original Magnolia Market, and a time when there was only a single traffic light in the entire area.
As our community has evolved into a world-class destination, I’m often asked what has changed the most. While we now enjoy the luxuries of The Ritz-Carlton and expanded amenities, the most down-to-earth parts of the Lake Country haven’t changed at all. They are found in the landmarks we still use to navigate, like “the pyramid” at the intersection of Highway 44, and the unique local charm where one of our most popular restaurants doesn’t even need a sign with its name on it—it simply says “Bar and Grill.”
Recently, my 22-year-old son was back in town for dinner, and the evening turned into a great walk down memory lane. We ran into a couple of his elementary school teachers and caught up with lifelong friends we’ve known since our children were babies. It was a powerful reminder that while people might move here for the water and the golf, they stay because of the people.
As a Realtor, my favorite part of the job is introducing a newcomer to this unique balance. While I may be showing a client many potential new homes, my real goal is to introduce them to the lifestyle. I recently hosted a client from Colorado who had toured lakes all across the country looking for the perfect spot for his family. After a few days exploring the different areas of the Lake Country and seeing the beauty of Lake Oconee from the water, he summarized his first impression of the area in one word: community.
In a luxury market, it’s easy to get caught up in square footage and finishes. But after nearly 20 years here, I’ve learned that the true value of a home in the Lake Country is the sense of belonging that comes with it. Finding the perfect house for a client is exciting, but ensuring they know just how special this community is remains the most rewarding part of my work.
