Central Austin Realty Bits

If you own a Lake Austin waterfront home, the LCRA and city of Austin are giving you a chance to do repairs on your waterfront or dock.  Beginning January 3, 2011, water levels in Lake Austin will start dropping for three weeks and remain low until February 8.  This Lake Austin lowering also helps contain unwanted vegetation on the lake bed.

In years past, I have witnessed Lake Austin go from a lovely shimmering blue pool to a muddy trickle.  When the lake is lowered, only the center river channel carries water, flanked on both sides by a muddy mess.  It is not the best time to sell waterfront and water view properties.  I had a listing once with a great water view, but when the lake was lowered, it really took away from the property's ambiance.  Once the water came back up, the home sold quickly.  There is something to be said for the strength of the emotional tug of water views.

So late January might be a good time to bargain on Lake Austin real estate if you are a buyer.  Sellers might notice less enthusiasm for their listed properties.  In any event, eventually the lake fills and jet skiers and boaters once again flock to this crown jewel along Austin's western edge.

SEARCH AUSTIN WATERFRONT HOMES HERE:  http://trueaustinhomes.com/waterfront-.asp

Jeff Harris, Broker

jeff@trueaustinhomes.com

A Lake Austin institution, Ski Shores Cafe, is reopening this week.  Closed for the last few months for a remodel by new owners, this Austin, Texas landmark serves great waterfront fare in a casual atmosphere.  For 50 years, generations have arrived by boat or car to sample burgers, catfish, fries and more.

Originally an outpost on largely undeveloped Lake Austin, Ski Shores now has several newer upscale subdivisions around it along with the older properties developed over the past few decades.  Older waterfront properties for sale in the Ski Shores area start at just over $1 million and go up to $12 million for a 7 acre estate.  The newer subdivision of Greenshores features non-waterfront homes built mostly in the last 5 years and are typically priced between $600,000 and $1 million.   Greenshores residents have access to a waterfront park with boat launch and day dock.

Ski Shores is off 2222, just west of 360 Capital of Texas Highway, and is adjacent to the waterfront 1100 acre Emma Long Park.  Emma Long park has a swimming beach, sand volleyball, camping,  hiking, boat ramps and picnic areas. Residents near Ski Shores & Greenshores enjoy a bounty of outdoor activities and natural Austin terrain. 

Whether by boat, bicycle, on foot or by car, visit Ski Shores Cafe.  It is a true Austin icon on the lazy shores of Lake Austin.

Contact  me for a complete neighborhood report on the Ski Shores/Greenshores area.

See Lake Austin waterfront homes for sale