Despite low waters while work is being done on a dam, South Carolina's Lake Murray is increasing in popularity, say local Realtors.

"Lake Murray touches Newberry, Chapin, Irmo, Lexington and Columbia," explain Realtors Rosemarie and Kirstin Averoff. "Lake Murray is much larger than most people imagine. It was man-made and has many islands and coves. You better get a map or you will get lost! We have wonderful properties on deep year-round water and on quiet coves that are more affordable. There are also some condominiums with lake access and view. The better the water, the higher priced the property. The further out you go, the better the chances of finding something "affordable".

They add, "If you look at a map, Lake Murray looks like a Christmas tree. Irmo, Chapin and Lexington are considered "close-in" to downtown Columbia when it comes to lake living. They are also in the schools that rank highest and most desirable. Growth is everywhere. We call Columbia the "Best Kept Secret in the Country."

The Averoffs advise, "The Lake level will remain low until 2004. It is said that the work is ahead of schedule for a back-up dam. Prices continue to go up. Beautiful properties are available. Land on the lake is not so easy to find. The picture of the lake has changed. You may see some red clay and other things, that are not normally in view. Drive carefully. SCE&G created a new map for the low water safety. Values are increasing as property "close-in" becomes almost nonexistent."

"We are in the Midlands of South Carolina," says Realtor Roy Gossett. "One of top school districts in the USA is on Lake Murray, one of the largest man-made and pristine lakes in the USA. You will love it here - only 1 1/2 hours from the mountains and the Beach."

Gossett suggests, "Appreciation on Lake Murray is way up. The lake is being drawn down to make a new road across the Dam and do repairs. The Lake is very pristine and goes into four different counties. There are many price range homes to choose from. The schools are some of the tops in the state and Southeast. Come see for yourself. Bring your boat or pontoon!"

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Published: October 2, 2003

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