John Coley's (lakemartinvoice) Blog

Alabama Power owns and operates the hydroelectric Martin Dam, which impounds the Tallapoosa River to create Lake Martin.  The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) - regulates Alabama Power's operation of Martin Dam, and its effect on the water flow downstream on the Tallapoosa River, as we...

Most Lake Martin real estate observers now recognize that the sellers' market is over, because all real estate is local.  In fact, we are in a buyers' market.  For those who are in doubt - a buyers' market means that the buyers have the advantage - IT'S A GOOD TIME TO BUY.Market forces in real es...

Russell Lands is hosting the "Annual Showcase of Homes" at its newest Lake Martin development - The Ridge.  The showcase is happening over two weekends - September 15 and 16 as well as September 22 and 23, 2007.  Many of the builder spec homes that are for sale will be open to the public to tour....

As the Lake Martin real estate market shifts to a buyers' market, away from sellers, what does this mean?   If you are about to sell or buy waterfront property, how can you use this to your advantage?  What changes can we expect?  We can guess a few possibilities from studying other markets aroun...

This year has been good to Lake Martin developer Russell Lands.Broker Steve Arnberg was interviewed by the Opelika - Auburn News recently about the sales trends on Lake Martin.  Arnberg said that, while low water levels on Lake Martin had affected sales, this year was still strong enough to quali...

The Ridge - Russell Lands' newest Lake Martin development - is near to completing its Ridge Clubhouse and Pool Area, while Phase III construction is ramping up.I popped by The Ridge last week to look at some lots in Phase III.  Phase III - which stretches south towards the Dixie Sailing Club, whi...

The Lake Martin real estate market has slowed way down - it's no longer a sellers' market.  Who is responsible?One man - Adam Smith.In 1776 Smith established himself as one of the most influential economic philosophers when he penned Wealth Of Nations.  He described the natural economic forces th...

Offered At $399,000MLS #07-11631171 Lakeview DriveDadeville, AL 36853CommentsEnjoy your new deeded waterfront cabin with today's features and last year's prices. Construction ongoing on this craftsman inspired lake home. by Landmark Construction. Your deep water and big view won't be spoiled by c...

 Lake Martin has been a victim of the 2007 drought that has affected Alabama and much of the southeast.  The lake level is down to 480 already, which is the normal winter level.Apparently in 1941 it was worse.  50 feet down is about as bad as it gets.  I think back then they used to bring the lev...

What is the real estate market like on Lake Martin right now?  I own waterfront property, should I sell?  I want to buy Lake Martin waterfront property, but is it still a crazy market?These are questions I hear constantly.  Both potential buyers and sellers of Lake Martin real estate want to know...