Grand Lake O' the Cherokees
Grand Standings
Investing in real estate at Grand Lake can be as easy-going as the waterways.

The peaceful, quiet getaway that is Grand Lake could be more than just a getaway. For many people, it is a full-time or part-time place to call home.

Whether you’re looking for a vacation home or a permanent vacation, there’s plenty of high-quality real estate — just ask all the homeowners who live in the popular Grove and Langley areas, where the majority of the population lives close to shopping venues, schools, restaurants and entertainment areas.

Even during recent economic woes, prices have stayed relatively stable in this coveted part of Oklahoma. Resale homes are currently topping new build projects, and lakefront home sales have hardly been affected by the economy, while off-water properties have started to show an increase in activity over the past couple months, says Re/Max Grand Lake agent Chuck Perry.

If you want to enjoy the lake from the inside and out, there’s no better place than a home at the water’s edge. With expansive windows, lake-front properties offer unique views of the water from many angles. “Grand Lake’s homes are less formal and more open,” Chuck says. “Formal dining isn’t a big deal on the lake. We want to sit and relax around a big family room.”

But no matter what tier your home is on, you’ll find something that piques your interest — at a reasonable price with extra amenities, too. “We’re not a corps of engineers’ lake,” he says. “We’re much more fun, we’re allowed to have docks in front of our homes, and there’s 1,300 miles of shoreline. It’s not busy; it’s a boating-friendly lake.”

Part of the slower, more casual pace of life comes from Grand Lake’s reputation as a retirement community. “The majority of homebuyers here purchase a few years before retirement as a second home then settle on the lake full-time,” Chuck notes.

When looking for property of your own, start your search with the Grand Lake Association (GLA), www.grandlakefun.com. It has information about everything from resorts and real estate listings to restaurants, shopping, and community and water activities. Then make time to research real estate agents in the area who know the area well, can investigate the market and help you make a smart purchase.