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With a picturesque view of turquoise lake waters and scenic mountain ranges, Smith Mountain Lake also goes by the name “Crown Jewel of the Blue Ridge” and “Virginia’s Best Kept Secret.” For those who’ve spent time in Smith Mountain Lake on holiday, many have returned to purchase a home, either to move in permanently or to have a vacation home they can call their own. With so many wide open spaces, nature views, and recreational activities, it is no surprise that people just can’t resist the charm of Smith Mountain Lake.

Surrounded by the three counties of Franklin, Bedford, and Pittsylvania, Smith Mountain Lake offers a wide range of properties including waterfront, cabins, homes, townhomes, cottages, condos, and lots.

Whether you’re in the market for a simpler cabin or a more expansive luxury home, it’s especially important to have a knowledgeable Smith Mountain Lake Realtor by your side. In this article, you’ll find out:

• Why you need the guidance and expertise of a Smith Mountain Lake Realtor
• The qualities of good Realtor
• The essentials of a luxury home
• 10 things you need to know before buying a luxury home in Smith Mountain Lake

ABOUT SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKE

Formed in the 1960s as part of the power generation project of the Appalachian Power of the American Electric Power (AE) project, Smith Mountain Lake came into being because of a 235-foot dam erected by the Smith Mountain and the Roanoke River. The main channel of the lake is approximately 40 miles with an elevation of 795 feet above sea level, with the two major rivers The Roanoke River and the Blackwater River joining. It also has over 500 miles of shoreline that allows different activities for guests and residents.

Experiences you can enjoy in Smith Mountain Lake are:

• Swimming
• Jet skiing
• Wakeboarding
• Kneeboarding and tubing
• Kayaking
• Canoeing
• Paddle boarding
• Rowing
• Boating
• Fishing for striped bass, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, crappie, brim, catfish, and walleye

There’s more to enjoy outside of the water:

• Hikers will be pleased to know there are trails in the area that are perfect for camping and birdwatching
• Golfers will take to the expertly designed golf courses in Smith Mountain Lake
• Resorts, spas, and restaurants are plentiful

Where to stay in Smith Mountain Lake

The southwestern area of Smith Mountain Lake has newer residences and restricted short-term vacation rentals. The Westlake Corner and the Westlake Towne Center, one of the biggest commercial spaces in the area, offer brick-and-mortar shopping.

Bedford County lies in the northern and eastern areas of the lake. Bedford is ideal for holiday and long-term rentals, with hotels and residential subdivisions.

Pittsylvania in the far southeast has a more laid back and private environment. Here, Vista Pointe Condos offer the best views.

BUYING LUXURY REAL ESTATE

Recently sold by Jane Sullivan Horne: a 5-bed, 7-bath, 6946-square-foot iconic Smith Mountain Lake estateWhile the home buying process is pretty much uniform across most property types, it’s useful to note that acquiring luxury real estate distinguishes itself in a number of ways. For example:

Prime location. While location is the top consideration for all property types, its importance is magnified when it comes to buying luxury property. Neighborhoods may be guard-gated. Properties may be far flung or secluded for utmost privacy, or else in close proximity to city centers with a wider choice of amenities. The community vibe is one of exclusivity, affluence, tranquility, and safety.

Square footage. Acreage is another consideration. While not all luxury buyers want expansive lots, the interior and immediate exterior of a home must have plenty of room for unfettered, high-end living. Cathedral ceilings, sports courts, multiple-car garages, gyms and spas, backyard kitchens, entertainment rooms, bonus rooms, guest cottages, and private docks are some examples.

Premium materials. Quality is a defining characteristic of luxury homes. You’ll see it in the choice of materials and finishes, and the attention to architectural detail. Where premium materials once meant importing the best in the world, today’s homes may feature cutting-edge sustainable materials from local sources, including custom features handcrafted by community artisans. Today, premium materials may extend to integrating green and smart technologies as home features.

High-end design. Luxury properties stand out because they’re designed by the best in their field. Whether heritage or pedigreed, custom or new builds, luxury homes often bear the handiwork of these designers. If you browse high-end listings, some of the descriptions name-check the architectural and interior design firms that worked on the house because they are a selling point.

Upscale features and amenities. With the unique design comes a distinct set of amenities as well. Luxury homes can include specialized spaces such as a home gym, entertainment rooms, sunrooms, intelligent home features, private farms and boat docks, a private beach, bigger-than usual swimming pools, rooms with different themes, and other custom amenities. With these things in consideration, it comes as no surprise that luxury properties are priced the way they are.

10 THINGS TO CONSIDER BEFORE BUYING LUXURY REAL ESTATE IN SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKE

If the house has a private shoreline, check for water depth, erosion control, dock featuresInterested in purchasing a luxury property in Smith Mountain Lake? Here are some things you can check out with the help of a dedicated Smith Mountain Lake Realtor like Jane Horne. Let Jane and her team point out some of the best features you should be looking for when browsing Smith Mountain Lake homes for sale.

1. View
   In a place where location is already king, the view is the crowning glory. Do you want a sight of the lake with the mountains as backdrop? As a sunrise or sunset person, is there a house that indulges your preference? Does a view of the evening lake lit by the moon and the starry sky as you enjoy your wine sound appealing? The view is one of its permanent features a property may have, and your Realtor will make sure no development plans alter your priceless vista in the years ahead.
2. Slope
   When purchasing a lake property, considering the slope of the land is important. Is it flat with gentle or steep slopes? Is it safe and easily accessible for children and the elderly? Would it require you to install steps? Is the space just right, too narrow, or too wide? Would you want to have a basement and/or a driveway? Your needs and requirements will depend in large part on the type of slope the property has. Checking it is critical when touring the property.
3. Waterfront
   If you’re keen on a waterfront home with a private shoreline, you’ll need to think of the following:
   • Water depth
   • Water quality
   • Erosion control
   • Dock features

   Some waterfront property buyers will look for deep waters to dock their boats. Others may prefer shallower waters that their children can swim and play in safely. Erosion control and rip-rap installations are important but not all waterfront properties need erosion control measures. Therefore, it’s critical to work with local agents who are experts in lake luxury properties.

4. Location
   There are residential areas in Smith Mountain Lake that answer specific needs. Options include a private wooded community, a country club, access to the best spots to sail, communities surrounded by rentals or the farthest from rentals. Some homeowners may prefer being in the midst of the events and activities during high season. Others like their quietude.
5. Home style
   Look at the overall style and location of the property. Which features do you want to keep? Is there anything you’d like to remodel? Before you buy, check out the renovations you envision based on the age and structure of the home and the property’s slope, view, and waterfront.
6. Priorities
   With the beautiful homes available and charming environment of Smith Mountain Lake, it’s easy to forget the purpose of the property you hope to buy. Are you looking for a permanent home, a vacation home, or an investment rental? Keep priorities in mind when checking listings.
7. Future-proof
   Like with any real estate property, future-proofing your home is essential. Ask your agent about plans in the area. Are there going to be development projects that will obstruct your view? Or else boost the value of your property because there will be more commercial establishments nearby? Buy or pass accordingly.
8. Length of time
   It usually takes a longer time to buy a luxury property. Often, homeowners are not in a rush to sell; they may reject offers until they find a buyer that matches their price and preferences. There are also more details to be considered and finalized in a luxury home compared to a standard single-family home, for example. Furthermore, a waterfront or a lakefront property may require additional inspections by waterfront specialists to ensure the soundness of bulkheads, docks, and piers; residential structural engineers; or surveyors to determine the boundaries of the properties.
9. Required documents
   Like any big purchase, a luxury home comes with a gauntlet of requirements. Some documents you need to prepare are:
   • Bank statements
   • Tax returns
   • W-2
   • Financing approval letter
   • Pre-qualification letter

   These are on top of the usual information that the seller or the financing institution might require from you.

   Once the deal has been closed, additional documents to secure are:

   • Buyer’s-agent agreement
   • Purchase agreement
   • Addenda, amendments, and riders
   • Seller disclosures
   • Home inspection reports
   • Closing disclosures
   • Title insurance policy
   • Property deed
10. Strong resale value
    If you are looking to invest in rental homes and properties that increase in value over time, factor in the property’s resale value. Some things to look for include custom-built home features, location, and facilities. Other things that matter: wide open spaces, floor plans, amenities such as private balconies, and a home design that will not go out of style in the next few years.

BENEFITS OF WORKING WITH A SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKE REALTOR WHEN BUYING LUXURY REAL ESTATE

The journey of purchasing a luxury real estate property is an experience that is best done with an expert Realtor. What are the advantages of working with a Smith Mountain Lake Realtor?

Here are some top benefits.

Has integrity and experience

It takes a special level of experience, skills, knowledge, dedication, and commitment to thrive in the luxury real estate market. Concierge services are a given. So is personalized care. Luxury Realtors also ensure they are on top of market changes, new requirements, home trends, and developments that will impact the real estate industry.

A local Realtor is a market expert

Realtors understand the “lay of the land” on levels as described above. They can leverage their personal networks in getting the best deals for you. They can also check similar properties in the area and compare prices for active, pending, and sold listings. They provide a better overview of the local market, which will allow you to make informed decisions about your purchases.

Has access to “silent listings”

It is important to work with Realtors who get access to the best deals – especially exclusive ones. It is not uncommon for luxury agents to sell properties that are not listed publicly. It broadens the choices available to clients.

Respects your time

Expert Realtors understand your busy schedule, especially if you are traveling from a distance. They shortlist properties ahead of time so you can view them in person during your time in the area. It is important to see how prepared and organized your Realtor is early on.

Ensures privacy and security

As with any business, keeping your information safe and secure is paramount. Working with a Realtor gives you peace of mind because the details of your transaction and the personal data you provide them remain safe with systems and tools to keep it this way.

Helps you avoid common homebuyer mistakes

Some buyers are also prone to make mistakes when buying a luxury real estate property, particularly if it is their first time. These common mistakes include:

• Buying a property on impulse
• Forgetting the main purpose of purchasing the property
• Not being able to get to know the neighborhood
• Incomplete requirements and financial documents
• Choosing the wrong agent

Avoid these mistakes by being extra discerning. With a trusted Smith Mountain Lake Realtor, you can make the most out of your investment, while also enjoying the process.

What to expect in a luxury Realtor

With these benefits in mind, the next step is to find a luxury Realtor that can help you purchase your dream luxury home in Smith Mountain Lake. During your search for the best luxury real estate professional, look for the following qualities:

1. 1. Strong history of sales in luxury homes

When you buy a luxury lakefront property, your chosen Realtor must be an expert in this niche market. Jane Horne is the Realtor to entrust the purchase of your Smith Mountain Lake home. I have conducted my business in this idyllic community since 1986, overseeing transactions worth from $10 to $20 million a year, making me a consistent top producer in the area.

1. 1. Proven experience in looking after clients

I am proud of the personalized service and dedication I have consistently provided my clients. I have successfully matched clients with Smith Mountain Lake properties that perfectly match their needs.

1. 1. Certifications and achievements

Along with experience and expertise, luxury Realtors have notable certifications and memberships under their belt. They are proof of excellence, performance, ability, and skillfulness throughout the years. I am a Certified Residential Specialist (CRS), a certified Single-Family Rental (SFR) Realtor, and a Luxury Collection Specialist. In addition, I have been awarded the Fine Homes Certification, given only to Realtors who have listed and sold homes over million dollars.

1. 1. Memberships and partnerships

As a Smith Mountain Lake Realtor, I serve on the Virginia Recreational Facilities Authority as a member of the Board of Directors (a state board appointment). I am also a member of National Association of REALTORS® (NAR), Virginia Association of REALTORS® (VAR), and Roanoke Valley Association of Realtors.

If you can’t wait to step into your very own Smith Mountain Lake property, I can’t blame you. With four distinct seasons, this exceptional community allows you to enjoy the best of spring, summer, fall, and winter. You’ll never run out of things to do – whether it’s simply relaxing by the lake or experiencing the great outdoors with watersports and hiking trails.

To learn more about the available Smith Mountain Lake luxury real estate properties, you can call me, Jane Sullivan Horne, at 540.493.1690 or 800.858.4653. You can also contact me here.

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You may have, at one point, imagined you and your significant other holding hands and walking by a lakeshore under a velvet veil of stars, surrounded by the tranquil beauty of nature. If that is your kind of romantic tryst, then you can enjoy this and much more at Smith Mountain Lake.

Located along the Blue Ridge Mountains of Central Virginia, Smith Mountain Lake is the largest lake in the state (covering 82.88 square kilometers) and a popular attraction, as well. When it comes to activities, hot destinations, and hidden gems, this remarkable location has lots to offer to everyone of different lifestyles and ages.

There are many options for things to do in Smith Mountain Lake but one of its biggest draws is its various sites and activities that spark romance. Whether you’re looking for the perfect romantic setting or even if you simply need some time alone to destress, Smith Mountain Lake in Virginia has got you covered.

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

• Romance at the Lake
• Wellness x 2
• Night out in camp
• Caffeine fix with a view
• Wining and dining
• Get heady with fine wine
• Enjoy the sights
• Tee for two
• Water adventures
• Best time to visit Smith Mountain Lake
• Live the charming life in Smith Mountain Lake

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Romance at the Lake

Here are several highly recommended things to do in Smith Mountain Lake that are sure to ignite the romance factor between you and your partner.

Wellness x 2

There is no better way to unwind than through a satisfying massage appointment. Book a couple’s massage at any of the spa facilities and resorts in Smith Mountain Lake for a romantic weekend. Your partner and your stiff muscles will thank you for it.

Take your pick from some of the finest venues for health and wellness in the Roanoke Region:

Serafina Day Spa
400 Scruggs Road, Moneta

Everything offered here is all-natural from the facials to the therapeutic massage treatments. This facility is a favorite among the locals.

Southlake Spa & Salt Room
135 David Lane, Union Hall

The most distinct service offered by this wellness facility is dry salt therapy which is said to address respiratory and skin conditions, as well as fortify the immune system.

Traveling Therapy by Elizabeth Doucette, LMT
13105 Booker T. Washington Highway, Hardy

If you’re in the area of Smith Mountain Lake, particularly in Westlake, you can try Elizabeth’s therapeutic massage therapy. She has an office where she does most of her massage sessions but she can also make house calls.

True Organics Spa
130 Scruggs Road Suite 104, Moneta

This Smith Mountain Lake wellness center dedicates itself to providing natural enhancement of one’s well-being through holistic products and services at an affordable price.

Night out in camp

If you and your significant other enjoy the Great Outdoors, immersing yourselves in the breathtaking natural scenery should be on your list of things to do in Smith Mountain Lake.

Going hiking in the parks within the periphery of Smith Mountain Lake is the best way to take in the area’s beautiful scenery. The moderate, less extreme winters in this area allow you to take to the mountains even when temperatures drop. Plus, it provides more opportunities for snuggle time to keep each other warm.

Here are some of Smith Mountain Lake’s parks:

Smith Mountain Lake State Park

Apart from offering impressive trails for hikers’ and bikers’ use, this park provides overnight camping where you can cap off your day of exploring the trails with an intimate bonfire session. The state park’s campsites have in-ground grills, a fire ring grill, a picnic table, and lanterns.

Smith Mountain Lake Community Park

This community park is a must-visit for families due to its playground, picnic tables, and beautiful waterfront view. It also provides beach access and a fishing pier, offering fun water and land activities for all types of visitors.

Smith Mountain Cooperative Wildlife Management Area

While this is property owned by the local power company and managed by the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources, it has a conservation easement that allows the public to enter and enjoy the spectacular views and the local wildlife. Hunting is also allowed here.

Now that you have a plan set, make sure to book your accommodation in any of the cabins or campgrounds here.

Caffeine fix with a view

You can never go wrong with coffee dates. Start the day, spend an afternoon chat, or have a nightcap with a cuppa Joe at the Smith Mountain Lake Coffee House. The beans used by this cafe come from local roasters and it also offers homemade pastries to go with your coffee. Enjoy your cup here while taking in the amazing lake views.

Other choice cafes in the area include:

• Old Oak Café. Great coffee, hearty meals. Just the mix to get you started on your day.
• CJ’S Coffee & Sandwich Shop. Linger here as for long as you want with your special other while sipping coffee complemented with delightful sandwiches and delectable pastries.
• Wake Cafe. Your day’s off to a good start with any of the flavorful brews from this newly transferred Smith Mountain Lake coffee place. Soft-serve ice cream is also a popular choice here.

Wining and dining

If you want to take your partner on a culinary adventure, then a food tour should be one of the top things to do in Smith Mountain Lake. You’ll delight in the gastronomic options that this area has to offer.

Smith Mountain Lake gives opportunities for you and your significant other to try something new every day. Take Diamond Hill General Store, for example. Having a meal on their patio is always a lovely experience, and it also has an adjacent gift shop where you can buy a souvenir or two of your time here. Mama Ann’s Gifts & Goodies is another interesting shop for food and gifts found in Moneta.

If you are in the mood for Italian, there’s Vinny’s Italian Grill & Pizzeria and Napoli Cowboy. If you are craving Asian cuisine, Edo Grill & Sushi and Teriyaki House are your best bets.

For a more local experience, drop by Heath’s Waterfront Grill for its amazing American-style dishes and live music on Saturday nights. The Dam Grill, another Virginia pride, is a great choice for comfort food and special cocktail drinks.

Here are other options for great food and drinks at Smith Mountain Lake:

• Liberty Station
• Clam Diggers
• Portside Grill & Bar
• Magnum Point Marina
• The Blackwater Café
• The Landing Restaurant
• Mexico Viejo Tequila Bar
• Buddy’s BBQ Restaurant

Get heady with fine wine

Catching the sunrise, chasing sunsets, and spending the whole day visiting the wineries and stunning vineyards with your loved one – add these to your list of things to do in Smith Mountain Lake for the perfect romantic day out.

As the oldest winery in Smith Mountain Lake, Hickory Hill Winery & Vineyard has gained fame for its Smith Mountain Lake Series of wines. This family-owned vineyard has seen all three generations of the Furrow family taking part in the growth of the Virginia wine industry. Their Hickory Hill Wine Club gives its members first dibs to its small-batch wines, access to library wines, and invites to Wine Club-exclusive events. Hickory Hill also hosts general admission events, such as Sunset Saturdays from April to October.

Down the road is another distinguished SML winery, Ramulose Ridge. It is home to award-winning estate-crafted wines that you and your special someone can enjoy while taking in the wonderful scenery. This vineyard’s 2,200-square-foot rental space is also the perfect spot for special events.

In Bedford, stop by Peaks of Otter Winery at Johnson’s Orchards for a picnic date with a bottle of wine. Several exciting events are held on this lovely family farm in the Blue Ridge Mountains, including the Horse & Hound Wine Festival and the Blossom to Bottle 5k run and 3k walk. The old homestead here was converted into Elmo’s Rest, a vacation rental where you and your partner can spend a night or two in the quiet tranquility of rural Virginia.

Complete your winery hop with these other establishments in and around Smith Mountain Lake:

• Brooks Mill Winery
• Fables & Feathers Winery
• AmRhein Wine Cellars

Enjoy the sights

Looking for a comprehensive list of things to do in Smith Mountain Lake to amp up the romance without the stress of plotting out the arrangements? Then find a local tour to maximize your Smith Mountain Lake experience.

For a great day spent cruising the waters of Smith Mountain Lake and enjoying the natural scenery, wildlife, and local landmarks visible from the lake, arrange a schedule with Virginia Dare Cruises and Marina and come aboard the Virginia Dare. For something more land-based, the marina is where you’ll find Portside Grill & Bar, Smith Mountain Lake’s only grill bar by the water.

You can also arrange for a Smith Mountain Lake date from a unique perspective! SML Aviation, a flight school at the Smith Mountain Lake Airport, offers sightseeing tours for two to three passengers. You can savor amazing views of Smith Mountain Lake and the local area during your 30-minute flight and give your partner an experience they will never forget.

Tee for two

For couples with a passion for golf, take to the fairways of Mariners Landing where members of the exclusive Mariners Landing Country Club can play their favorite sport on the venue’s impressive 18-hole championship golf course. The Club also offers other amenities such as a clubhouse and a wellness center.

In Hardy, you and your partner can tee off in Copper Cove, a premier public golf course that offers a challenging layout over 6,511 yards of terrain. The course was designed by prolific golf course designer and Virginia native, Russell Breeden.

Another golf course to visit in the periphery of Smith Mountain Lake is Sycamore Ridge Golf Club in Goodview, an 18-hole course designed by Dick Sowers.

For a more relaxed setting, you and your partner can try Harbortown Miniature Golf. This course is found on top of the boat docks in Bridgewater Plaza, Moneta.

Water adventures

There is no shortage of water-based activities in Smith Mountain Lake that you and your partner can enjoy. Here are some of them.

Marinas and boat rentals

Go to Bridgewater Marina to make the most of your lakeside vacation for two. Rent a boat here, either for a slow and steady sail or for an adrenaline rush. Bridgewater Marina is among the top boat rental providers in Smith Mountain Lake, having one of the largest boat rental fleets in all of the US.

If this will be your first time to go sailing, you and your partner can learn to navigate the waters at Smith Mountain Lake Sailing School. In addition to sailing lessons, the said school also offers sailboat rentals and half-day charters.

Other public marinas and boat rental facilities in Smith Mountain Lake include:

• Parkway Marina
• The Dock at SML
• Mitchell’s Point Marina & RV Park
• Crazy Horse Marina
• Gills Creek Marina & Lodge
• Bridgewater Marina
• Smith Mountain Wake Company

Fishing

Smith Mountain Lake is a fisherman’s paradise. The lake is abundant with striped bass, smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, as well as crappie, catfish, and muskellunge. Bass fishing news source Bassmaster hailed Smith Mountain Lake as among the top 20 bass lakes in the U.S.

Do note, though, that fishing in Smith Mountain Lake requires a Virginia State Fishing License. You can easily acquire this online at the Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries or buy one at the Kroger store at Westlake.

Once you have your license, you’re ready to spend the day catching fish with your partner. For something more competitive, you can ask for assistance from fishing guides who can help you to catch game fish in the lake. Guided fishing trips in SML are available with South Valley Anglers. They can take you to the best coves and fishing spots.

Find your fishing guide here:

• Hartmann Guide Services SML
• Spike’s Prime Time Fishin’, Inc.
• Stone Mountain Guide Service
• Kenny’s Striper Guide Service
• Patriot Fishing Charters
• Smith Mountain Lake Fishing Guide Service

Best time to visit Smith Mountain Lake

Smith Mountain Lake has generally temperate weather due to its central location along the East Coast. This and its small-town neighborhood atmosphere make Smith Mountain Lake a pleasant place to visit any time of the year. Who knows, the lovely surroundings and the warm smiles of residents you encounter may just be the things to convince you to stay here for good and chart a new future with your significant other here.

While Smith Mountain Lake offers an abundance of activities and attractions you can enjoy in any season, summertime will always be the best time to take to the shores of Smith Mountain Lake. This is the time when the waters of the lake are most inviting and you’ll be able to savor all the activities offered here under clear skies and perfect weather. Spring can also be an ideal time as this is when the wildflowers in the area are in full bloom, covering the landscape in a burst of colors.

Live the charming life in Smith Mountain Lake

Smith Mountain Lake is the ideal romantic getaway as you and your partner will never run out of things to discover and appreciate here. Moreover, real estate opportunities here await that will allow you to either visit here more often or settle here for good.

There’s a wide range of properties found in Smith Mountain Lake, a good number of which sit by the waterfront. Imagine yourself waking up every day to the cool lakeshore breeze and the beauty of nature all around you – this is the kind of life that awaits you when you decide to purchase a home here.

As a Smith Mountain Lake resident myself and with an established real estate background borne on my 28 years of experience as a local Realtor, I am dedicated to helping you find the perfect SML home. I am Jane Horne, your award-winning Smith Mountain Lake real estate specialist! Let me assist you in your SML home-buying journey to make your experience a breeze. From recommending best things to do in Smith Mountain Lake to finding you the home that best fits your lifestyle and requirements, you can rest assured that I’ll be here to guide you every step of the way. I’m just a call away at 540.493.1690 or 800.858.4653. You can also email me at Jane(at)JaneAtTheLake(dotted)com to get started.

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Thinking of renting out your home, or buying investment property at Smith Mountain Lake? Both are great ideas, especially since Smith Mountain Lake – or SML as we locals call it – is Virginia’s most celebrated lake. Boasting over 20,000 acres of freshwater and 500 meters of shoreline, SML is filled with real estate possibilities.

Every summer, tourists flock to this part of southwestern Virginia. They indulge in water sports like swimming, fishing, and boating. We also have our share of hikers, campers, and golfers out to appreciate Mother Nature at her best. In fact, the pandemic hasn’t slowed down local tourism. At the start of the peak season in 2021, rentals and recreational facilities were already almost fully booked until August.

AT A GLANCE:
How to turn your Smith Mountain Lake home into a successful rental

• Reasons you want to turn your house into a rental
• Short-term or long-term rental – Which is better?
• Does your community allow rentals?
• Costs of a running a rental
• Making impactful improvements
• How to price your rental property
• Writing a lease agreement
• Why you need landlord insurance
• Hiring a property manager
• Finding the right tenant
• Local landlord-tenant laws in Virginia
• Pros and cons of managing a rental

Reasons you want to turn your house into a rental

Before taking on any new venture, it’s always best to ask why you want to do it. Your motivation will shape your next steps and how you will carry them out.

Here are some reasons why you may want to convert your home into a rental:

• You’re relocating but not yet ready to sell your house.
• You want to boost your income and/or retirement funds.
• It’s a smart way of letting your property appreciate, while letting tenants subsidize costs.
• You want to use the rent to finance your mortgage. However, you need to read the Occupancy Clause of your lending agreement for this one. Most mortgage companies require you to live a certain number of years in your property before you can rent it out.

Short-term or long-term rental – which is better?

Vacation rentals in SML are available by the week, a long weekend, and the month. During peak season, visitors are usually required to rent property for at least a week. Deciding to make your rental short-term or long-term depends on your goals. Both scenarios have advantages. For explanatory purposes, let’s define short-term rentals having an occupancy period of one month or less.

Short-term rental advantages

• Access to your property whenever you want
  Because your tenants stay in your property for a limited amount of time, you have the freedom to use your rental for personal vacations.
• Less wear and tear for your property
  Short-term rentals are exposed to less deterioration. In between occupants, you can do maintenance and general cleaning – the costs of which can be added to the rental fee. With the continuous replacement of occupants, you can better keep track of things that need repair before they worsen.
• Frequent adjustment of rental fees
  Unlike long-term rentals, you can raise prices in between tenants. You can base this on the real estate market and tourist season. For instance, you can decrease the rental fee during the low season, and charge higher rent when tourists come pouring in.
• Easier dealings with unsatisfactory tenants
  Let’s face it: you can’t have ideal tenants all the time. On a short-term basis, you don’t have to endure unpleasant occupants for long.
• Possibly higher income
  Short-term rentals require higher maintenance costs. But with a hot vacation spot like SML, you can easily offset those expenses with higher rent.

Long-term rental advantages

• Steady income source
  Once you find tenants for your long-term rental, you are assured of income. With short-term rentals, you constantly have to market your property to secure your returns.
• Occupants shoulder utilities
  Long-term renters typically pay for their use of electricity, water, and sewer. As a result, they are more conscious about conserving these resources. On the other hand, short-term renters tend to be more liberal with utility usage, which leads to higher costs.
• Simpler maintenance
  With long-term rentals, you don’t have to spend as much time, money, and effort on property management and maintenance. Because tenants know they will be living in the property for a long time, they usually resolve minor home issues on their own.

You also have the option of operating your SML vacation rental on a mix of short-term and long-term. Take advantage of the peak season by offering your property as a short-term rental to boost profit potential. But when the slow season comes, rent out your vacation home on a long-term basis.

Does your community allow rentals?

efore jumping on the rental bandwagon, it’s best to check your community’s rules on renting. Some homeowners’ associations (HOAs) have specific policies for short-term and long-term rentals. You may be required to acquire a license or a special permit, or pay regular fees.

Other HOAs restrict tenants to minimum (or maximum) lengths of stay. A local agent or Realtor can guide you in these rules. After all, you don’t want to be subjected to costly penalties.

Costs of a running a rental

As a rental owner, you need to watch out for expenses. The rental business has lots of hidden charges, which you may forget to factor in. Remember to include even the small costs to determine how much you will charge renters. Here are some basic expenses for a rental investment:

• Marketing
• Repair and maintenance
• Property taxes
• Homeowners’ association dues
• Insurance
• Mortgage fees
• Utilities
• Vacancy period

Your rental income should be enough to at least cover these costs. Still, you don’t want to just break even – you need to make a profit. To make sure your price is current, stay abreast of real estate market changes. Remember to set aside funds for unexpected costs such as emergency repairs.

Making impactful improvements

Renovating your home will surely make it more eye-catching, but it will also pile onto your costs. The key to a practical upgrade is to make minimal improvements that have maximum impact. Here are some examples:

• Give your home a thorough cleaning
  Cleaning is one of the cheapest ways to improve your home. It gets rid of unwanted odors, which potential renters notice right away during open house. With a few household products, you can refresh your property’s look.
• Replace outdated furnishings
  You don’t need to replace furniture to pep up your rental. Sometimes, it’s all in the details. Closet handles, for instance, or rugs and seat covers. You’ll be surprised at how these small and affordable improvements can freshen up your home.
• Repaint
  A fresh coat of paint is every landlord’s go-to solution for home improvement. When choosing a color for your walls or exterior, stick to neutral colors, so you can better attract a wide variety of renters.
• Go for curb appeal
  A tasteful sprinkling of potted plants can give your rental a homey feel. Just pull out the weeds, mow the lawn, and clear the rain gutters. Remember to keep your frontage clean to make it look inviting.

Simplify improvements to boost both your home’s value and your future gains. Concentrate on areas that hook renters’ attention such as the front yard, living room, and the main bedroom. Once you’ve finished your upgrade, have a professional take photos and videos, which you can use for marketing.

How to price your rental property

There are several factors that affect rental rates. Here are some ways to help you determine how much to charge your tenants:

Use your home’s value
Try this classic formula from seasoned investors: set your rent from 0.8% to 1.1% of your home’s value. Smith Mountain Lake home rentals range in value from $68,000 to $11 million. So, if your home is worth $300,000, you can price your monthly rent between $2,400 to $3,300.

• Use an online rental property calculator
  Though it’s not wise to completely depend on online calculators, this can give you a ballpark figure on your rental price. Choose rent calculators that factor in loans and other costs to give you the closest estimate possible.
• Study the real estate market
  How much does your home sell for in the current market? This may affect your monthly rental fee. Also, consider the changing demand for rentals. During a sluggish economy or off season, lower your price to entice renters.
• Compare with similar rentals in your area
  Online resources like Zillow and Craigslist can give you an idea of rental prices in your area. Make sure to focus on properties similar to yours in size, features, amenities, and location.
• Consider your location
  Lakefront rentals have higher values because of the view. Is your property in a convenient location near eateries and grocery stores? The more accessible or scenic the location, the higher the rental price.
• Take note of your amenities
  Tenants are willing to pay extra for additional comforts. Some of these include parking, laundry facilities, free internet, and storage space.
• Think of your goals
  When pricing your rent, think of what you want to get out of this venture. Do you want your rental income to secure your retirement? Or do you just want it to subsidize your mortgage? Remember that maintenance costs eat into about 15% to 20% of your projected rental earnings.
• Consult a professional
  Real estate agents and Realtors are trained to give more accurate appraisals of your property. Make sure to hire professionals knowledgeable about your location. Their wide network and skills will teach you how to price your rental property.

Writing a lease agreement

The Virginia Residential and Landlord Tenant Act (VRLTA) requires landlords to provide renters with a written lease. A lease agreement is a contract that lists the terms between you and the tenant.

Aside from the rental fee, here are some things you can ask yourself, which can guide you in drafting a lease:

• How many people can live in your rental?
• Will you allow pets?
• Who will be responsible for maintaining the yard?
• Who will pay for garbage pickups?
• What are your rules for neatness?
• When can you, the landlord, enter the home? According to the VRLTA, you must give tenants 72 hours’ notice of entry. However, if your renter wants something fixed, you don’t have to give advance notice.

Operating a rental is a business, so treat it like one. Hire an attorney to help you write your lease to make sure it is comprehensive and legal.

Why you need landlord insurance

Landlord insurance protects your property against loss or damage. But it also covers liabilities, like paying for medical and legal expenses for someone who is injured within your property. The reason you pay 15% to 20% more for landlord insurance than homeowners’ insurance is because the former cushions you against financial costs due to your rental’s vacancy.

Depending on your needs, you can purchase additional coverage for these issues:

• Failure of tenant to pay rent
• Floods
• Emergency repairs
• Additional construction due to damage
• Damage done by another person (e.g. vandalism)
• Changes in the building code
• Damage caused by burglary (e.g. smashed windows)

To get the most out of your coverage, explore insurance bundles. This way, you protect yourself from a variety of risks at a lower price or under just one contract. Landlord insurance is necessary if you don’t want to worry about where to get the money for unforeseen emergencies.

Hiring a Realtor or property manager

You may be too busy to manage your rental, or you may live too far away from your property to be a hands-on landlord. Either way, it may be more practical for you to hire a Realtor or property manager, who can oversee your rental property (and more) in your place.

The duties of a property manager include:

• Setting the rental price
• Touring potential renters
• Finding the right tenants
• Taking charge of repairs and regular maintenance
• Collecting rent
• Accomplishing paperwork
• Ensuring that your rental business stays lawful
• Checking up on tenants
• Assisting in the eviction process

But even if you’ve hired a professional, you still need to know your landlord duties. This helps you monitor the performance of your Realtor or manager.

Finding the right tenant

Finding the ideal tenant can take time, but it’s well worth the effort. Especially for long-term rentals, you need trustworthy occupants that regularly pay rent while caring for your property. During the screening process, provide application forms which you can also post online. These should require the following information from interested renters:

• Name
• Date of birth
• Social Security number
• Phone number
• Most recent address
• Employment (past employers and duration, current company, salary, employer’s contact info)
• Consent to gather or release information
• Signature

During the final screening stage, it’s wise to seek a professional who can help check out the potential tenants’ background and credit. The rule of the thumb is that tenants should earn at least thrice your rental price, have good references, and a steady job for at least a year.

Local landlord-tenant laws in Virginia

Legal problems can get expensive, which is why you need to know the laws of the state where your property stands. The Virginia Residential and Landlord Tenant Act (VRLTA) applies to most home rental properties in Virginia. These are some of the important points to remember:

• It’s against the law to turn down tenants because of their race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, familial status, disability, source of funds, sexual orientation, gender identity, or military status.
• In other states, you usually need to secure a permit to turn your residential property into a rental. However, Virginia laws consider home rentals as a business. This means that you’re required to have a business license before admitting tenants.
• A Statement of Tenant Rights and Responsibilities must be signed by both renter and landlord, rendering it immediately effective. The landlord must provide the tenant a copy of this together with the lease agreement within a month after signing.
• Before tenants move in, they should get specific information from you such as:
• The use of lead-based paint in the property
• Evidence of mold
• Faulty wallboard
• Proximity to military facilities, which may cause noise and possible accidents
• Names and contact information of people who manage the property
• As a landlord, it’s your duty to ensure that:
• The rental stays fit and habitable. Its structure must be sturdy and equipped with plumbing, electrical, sanitary, and water systems.
• Tenants feel safe and secure in their home.
• You’re always available to make basic repairs.
• You can charge security deposits equivalent to two months’ rent or the same value in damage insurance.
• You may evict tenants who have breached the lease agreement through criminal offense.

Pros and cons of managing a rental

Always jump into business with eyes wide open. To do this, you should first know the pros and cons of your decision.

Cons

• Renters causing your home to devalue because of irresponsible use
• Spending time and money on unexpected repairs
• Setting aside funds for annual taxes, insurance, property maintenance, and vacancy
• Dealing with difficult tenants
• Rental fee being affected by the fluctuating real estate market

Pros

• Regular income potential
• Earning while your property appreciates in value
• Tax deductions on:
• Home depreciation
• Repairs
• Utility expenses unpaid by tenant
• Travel expenses when visiting property (gas, cab fare, parking fee, etc.)
• Court and attorney fees

Simply put, a rental property can be a great source of income, especially if your home is in an ideal location. Despite the ups and down of the economy, real estate is always marketable because people will always need a place to live.

To ensure that your Smith Mountain Lake rental is primed for success, hire the right experts to minimize business risks.

I’m Jane Horne. For over 30 years, I have specialized in Smith Mountain Lake real estate. From buying and selling homes to setting a rental price to navigating local laws and managing your property, I can guide you in the unique aspects of your business.

Let’s talk it over at 540.493.1690 or 800.858.4653. You can also reach me at Jane(at)JaneAtTheLake(dotted)com.

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Making your Smith Mountain Lake home pet-friendly
The benefits of owning property in Smith Mountain Lake

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This magnificent, 5-bedroom lake estate located in The Water’s Edge has been recognized as one of “The Fabulous 5 Homes of SML” and exemplifies ideal lake living in Smith Mountain Lake. View here for details.

Smith Mountain Lake is one of the premier communities in Virginia. With luxury townhomes developed around the lakefront giving easy access to water activities, it’s certainly the perfect vacation destination.

Known as SML to the local community, there are many benefits to owning property here. It’s a great place to invest in real estate, as it’s not only a wonderful community to live in, but also host to peaceful summer getaways.

Owning homes in the area enables you to:

• Use it for yourself
• Rent it out to regular visitors.

There’s a roster of year-round activities and events at Smith Mountain Lake, which is sure to bring in people, whether or not it’s tourist season.

The benefits of investing in Smith Mountain real estate

If you’re curious about investing in property outside of the city, here are a few advantages you might not have considered in owning real estate in the country.

1. A more relaxed lifestyle. Whether you’re interested in buying property for yourself or to lease, there’s no question that time away from your jampacked day-to-day lives is a privilege often reserved for those in the countryside. Smith Mountain Lake is such a place where you can take your time, enjoy the outdoors, and get to know the locals.
2. More land and space. Not only can you stretch your legs and run free, you’re sure to have a bit more privacy than you would if you lived in the city. Having more space between you and your neighbors is a benefit almost exclusive to countryside properties.
3. A sense of community. Busy as cities can get, it can be more of a challenge to get to know your neighbors and form a connection with them. In smaller towns, you get a chance to be familiar with the area and the people who live there.
4. Be closer to nature. While smaller towns are still a developed realty, they’re generally much closer to nature than bigger cities. It can be as simple as finding the nearest state park and hiking for the day, or – as is the case with Smith Mountain Lake – getting on a boat and spending the afternoon bobbing on pristine waters.
5. Less pollution and traffic congestion. Naturally, being away from the concrete jungle makes for much less noise and air pollution, as well as heavy traffic. Experience the great outdoors in Virginia, learn about its history, hike its rolling hills, and rejuvenate before you get back to your busier days.

Perks unique to Smith Mountain Lake

Buyers thinking of purchasing lots in Smith Mountain Lake are sure to have these benefits, along with its own particular set of perks unique to its community:

1. An easy getaway from Roanoke, Lynchburg, and Richmond
   Nestled right in between the busy cities and the country, Smith Mountain Lake is an easy escape from the hustle and bustle, where you can enjoy a relaxing waterfront view and explore gorgeous mountains, all only an hour away from Roanoke and Lynchburg, and three hours away from Richmond.

 

2. Access to freshwater activities
   Created in 1963, Smith Mountain Lake is a large reservoir, impounding the Roanoke River to generate hydroelectric power through the dam. Since then, the area has grown into an upscale lakefront community with high-end homes, retail and commercial developments, and a host of recreational facilities. Rent or use your personal watercraft to enjoy water and jet skiing, wakeboarding, parasailing, fishing, sailing, and cruising around the lake.

 

3. Access to land-based activities
   When you start to miss dry land, there’s also a wide variety of activities to enjoy in the area, such as golf courses – which are prime attractions at Smith Mountain Lake – with two private and three public and semi-private locations, health and fitness centers, movie theaters, museums, and restaurants.

 

4. Access to lifestyle and recreational options
   At Smith Mountain Lake, there are recreational and lifestyle options tailor made to your interest. Here are a few of them:
   • The Water’s Edge Country Club is located in a lakefront community, featuring an 18-hole golf course, tennis, swimming, fitness facilities, as well as boating, fishing, and horseback riding. The property has a number of locales all hosting luxury townhomes, as well as a condo development, with access to the water and a stunning view of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
   • The Waterfront Country Club serves world-class experiences to both Waterfront and Smith Mountain Lake residents. Its 750 acres of land, with approximately 8.5 miles of shoreline, provides you with a wonderful vista of the lake. While the community realty itself is impressive, you also have access to state-of-the-art facilities for health and fitness, golfing, and banquet rooms and bar lounge.
   • The Cottages at Contentment Island is a luxury development with only 62 waterfront homes. The exclusive community has access to gorgeous properties, a swimming pool, tennis courts, and water activities at the lake.
   • Franklin County Parks: Smith Mountain Lake Community Park Beach is a 37-acre recreational space hosting families since 2007. They are open daily from dawn to dusk, with 1.7 miles of walking and hiking trails, picnic areas and grills, a playground, a swimming lane, and beach access to the lake. It’s a peaceful place perfect for an easy afternoon in nature.
   • Blue Ridge Parkway has historical, cultural, and agricultural significance. Covering a 469-mile road through Virginia and North Carolina and spanning the southern and central Appalachian Mountains, it receives millions of visitors every year thanks to its picturesque landscape and remarkable heritage. Throughout the Parkway, there are historic stops and towns, cultural centers and tours, and farmers’ markets selling locally sourced produce grown using refined Cherokee techniques.
   • White Rock Vineyards and Winery is a short drive away from Smith Mountain Lake. This family-owned and operated enterprise in Bedford County started in 2000 and now features breathtaking views along with its introductory wine seminars and vineyard tours.
   • Smith Mountain Lake State Park is a 1,148-acre park located on the north shore of the lake. Opened 20 years after the lake’s creation, the park features a recreational area for water activities, along with camping, picnicking, and hiking facilities.
   • Smith Mountain Dam Visitors’ Center makes the lake what it is and features an incredible view of the lay of the land. Take a tour of the center and learn about the dam’s history and how it generates electricity sustainably.

 

5. Access to local events and festivals
   The thriving community at Smith Mountain Lake knows how to showcase their best. Regular events and festivals become occasions to remember for the array of products and services the community provides.
   • Take the Smith Mountain Lake Wine Festival.  The intimate gathering Lee Tucker and Phil Hager started in 1989 to appreciate Virginia wine with fellow local wine lovers has become one of the largest and most popular events in the community. The venue may change every few years or so, to make sure there’s ample space to accommodate the growing number of visitors, but each site calls attention to more of the lake’s breathtaking scenery.
   • The Annual Antique & Classic Boat Show is hosted by the Smith Mountain Lake Chapter on the third weekend of September to promote the restoration and preservation of the historic boats, as well as promote boating on the lake. For boat owners and enthusiasts alike, it’s a chance to get to know your peers and display your own watercraft.
   • Every year on Columbus Day weekend, the community hosts the Smith Mountain Lake Charity Home Tour, a fund drive to support the critical services in the region. There are eight beautiful lakefront properties opened to the public for the tour. Volunteers and homeowners show guests around and point out the finer details of each house. The funds raised during the event supports the participating charities and their beneficiaries.

 

6. he opportunity to set up a vacation house for rent

   

   Purchasing a home in a popular vacation area means you can open the property for rent, particularly when it’s not in use. Like any investment, there are pros and cons to owning rental property. Fortunately, there are plenty to discover and experience in Smith Mountain Lake, making it an important vacation destination for years to come.

   Here are a few things to keep in mind when you invest in a property at Smith

   Mountain Lake:

   • Plan each step, and then some. Make sure your finances are in order, determine what your requirements and preferences are for the property, and get to know the neighborhood and the locale. Better yet, consult with a real estate expert familiar with the area. Let them show you around and assist you in preparing for your sizable investment.
   • Evaluate the properties. If you’re interested in property near a lake, you may want to consider whether you’d like one close by or along the shoreline. After all, it’s sure to be a fantastic view that you and your guests can enjoy. Decide on how long you’ll keep the property, how much you may want to expand it, and calculate its future value should you choose to sell it.
   • Get to know your potential investment. Prior to your final decision, learn the specifics of keeping your waterfront property well maintained, including making sure water levels and accessibility are manageable. Aside from the upkeep, make inquiries typical to buying any home. Knowing the ins and outs of the residence prepares you for any improvements or renovations you may want to make once it’s turned over to you.

 

7. The opportunity to scope your future retirement home

   

   The leisurely pace of the countryside makes for the perfect retirement destination. Smith Mountain Lake has all this waiting for you as soon as you retire. This is especially true for those with an enthusiasm for all kinds of watersports and a preference for the best that Virginia has to offer.

   Here’s what awaits when you retire in in Smith Mountain Lake:

   • Open air and spectacular scenery. Space to breathe is a luxury especially in surroundings that are naturally vibrant and lush. Along with a storied past, a unique culture, and many desirable neighborhoods, Smith Mountain Lake is a haven that’s perfect for your retirement.
   • An engaged retirement. With a wide selection of events and activities year round, there’s plenty to keep you entertained and engaged. You can also volunteer for the many organizations in the community, start a new business, spend your days sailing and fishing, or make your way through the golf courses in Smith Mountain Lake.
   • Easy access to amenities. Don’t let the “country” fool you – every amenity and service you need to live well and comfortably are in Smith Mountain Lake. For other pursuits,  Roanoke is less than an hour’s drive away, along with other metropolitan cities in the region

There’s something to be found for everyone in Smith Mountain Lake and its wonderful community. Find more information about its local culture, primary residences, investing in second homes, as well as vacation rentals from Jane Horne’s previous blog posts:

• Before investing in lakefront property, ask these questions
• Guide to buying a luxury home in Smith Mountain Lake
• The Best of Smith Mountain Lake Shopping: 2021 Edition
• 15 wineries, breweries, and distilleries in Smith Mountain Lake

What’s Smith Mountain Lake’s housing market like?

For first-time homebuyers, it’s likely to be challenging looking for the property of your dreams, especially in today’s market where there are more buyers than sellers. Listings that are just a few days on the market are quickly inundated by multiple offers, delaying the home buying process for those who lose out to winning offers. With the pandemic prompting the move from big cities to smaller towns, expect a more competitive market.

While these factors are also applicable to the Smith Mountain Lake housing market, in April 2021, the median listing price of a home in Smith Mountain Lake was close to $260,000, an 8.5% increase year-over-year. So if you’re looking for listings of single-family homes, condos, townhomes, or lots, there’s a modest selection for you to choose from.

As of mid-2021:

• Single-family homes sold for 98% of their list price less than two months after being listed.
• Condos and townhomes sold an average of 99% of the list price after less than a month on the market.
• For land, the average price for lots was at 88% of the list price but stayed on the market for longer than a year.

The state of real estate is constantly shifting – especially at these unprecedented times. Be sure to adjust as needed when you finally find a property that matches your needs.

Explore Smith Mountain Lake’s neighborhoods and get to know what makes each of them special.

• The Water’s Edge is one of the most luxurious places, as a country club community with its own Equestrian Center and the 18-hole PGA Championship golf course designed by R.F. Loving, Jr.
• The Waterfront stands out as the first of its kind in the area, occupying an expansive 750 acres comprising world-class amenities, including their 18-hole PGA Championship golf course designed by George Dillon. Buyers will find a wide selection of listings they can choose from, at price points ranging from $120,000 to $320,000.
• South Harbour is a 100-acre neighborhood, particularly recommended for those who want to avoid the crowd. It’s quite exclusive, with only 40 one to one-and-a-half acre lots, of which 28 are prime waterfront properties.

There’s more to discover in Smith Mountain Lake. Learn more information about the different neighborhoods with community resources here.

What to consider when choosing property in Smith Mountain Lake

A recently sold estate in Smith Mountain Lake

Smith Mountain Lake is one of the top places to live in Virginia, with spectacular scenery, a peaceful atmosphere, access to both mountains and lake, along with the idyllic community to enjoy the area’s year-round roster of exciting activities. Being the “Jewel of Blue Ridge Mountains,” Smith Mountain Lake has been a favorite of tourists year after year.

If you’re considering buying property in Smith Mountain Lake, here’s what you should keep in mind in your search for your next big investment:

• Set your goals for the property
  Whether you’re planning to buy a waterfront property or a luxury condo, where you can live or rent out to the tourists, it’s important to know what’s motivating your investment. Have a list of goals on hand when you peruse the listings available in your preferred area. This can include information on pricing, land size, distance from amenities, and the property’s features. Knowing these details can help keep you on track for when there’s too many details and options to take into account.
• Be prepared to adjust on the fly
  Smith Mountain Lake is host to many luxury homes and fun events and activities, and its proximity to metropolitan areas makes it a premier destination for both visitors and potential buyers. Your search for the perfect home in the area may take as little as a month to as long as a year, depending on the market. With this, be sure your shortlist of properties is within your budget – but you may have to decide quickly on whether to make an offer or not – and make certain you’re in this for the long haul.
• Partner with the right real estate professional
  Purchasing property is one of the most significant decisions you’ll make, so be prepared for a laborious process. Working with a real estate agent who can assist you comes highly recommended, particularly if you’re a first-time buyer. Consult with a professional who is familiar with the area you’re interested in, and have them show you around. This gives you a chance to gather information on the community as well as find the best deals for the top properties.

A one-of-a-kind community in the beautiful countryside

Having lived in Smith Mountain Lake for over 20 years, I, Jane Horne, can certainly vouch for its family friendliness, a magical area made for raising kids. There’s always something new to discover, while also adjusting to the slower pace of life in the country.

For me – and I hope, many of you are considering a move to Smith Mountain Lake – this community is close to my heart, and I’d love to introduce it to you. My local expertise and knowledge of the housing market can help you achieve your real estate dreams.

Reach me today through this form or give me a call at 540.493.1690 to learn more about Smith Mountain Lake.

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As one of the most popular holiday destinations in tourism-rich Virginia, Smith Mountain Lake offers fantastic real estate investment opportunities.

While there are a number of hotels here, vacation rentals are highly in demand. They are preferred by many holidayers for the privacy and exclusivity they provide, the relatively more affordable costs especially for big groups, and the greater freedom to come and go as they please.

When investing in a rental property in Smith Mountain Lake, it’s important to choose the right property with great access to the beautiful lake and the other attractions in the area.

You can also enhance your rental’s desirability by offering features that can make your customers’ stay more pleasant and enjoyable. One of the features that can bring in more guests is pet-friendliness.

To many pet owners, their furry friends are important members of the family, and that means taking them along on family vacations. When they do, they want to make sure Fido or Tabby has a comfortable and enjoyable stay along with everyone else.

Table of Contents:

• Smith Mountain Lake is a pet-friendly destination
• The benefits of making your rental property pet friendly
• The disadvantages of a pet-friendly rental property
• Adding a pet policy to your rental agreement
• Pet-proofing your SML vacation rental
• Find the perfect Smith Mountain Lake property to invest in

Smith Mountain Lake is a pet-friendly destination

Smith Mountain Lake is the perfect getaway for pets and their humans. Dogs are welcome to play in the water and on the beach, or go on long hikes with their owners on the area’s scenic trails. All state parks in Virginia, including the highly popular Smith Mountain Lake State Park, are open to pets. There are also many restaurants in the area that welcome four-legged guests, especially lakeside establishments with outdoor seating.

Many hotels and vacation rentals in SML are pet-welcoming, so if you want to attract a good chunk of the market, making your property pet-friendly is a sound decision. To give you the added edge, you can even offer services that will make Fido or Tabby extra happy, and with that, make their humans happy too.

The benefits of making your rental pet friendly

1. You’ll attract a wider pool of renters

Pet ownership in the United States has always been high and has been rising in the past few years. Moreover, pet owners have been spending more and more on their animals, including in pets’ travel and accommodations. By making your rental pet-friendly, you can take advantage of this growing trend and attract renters who are willing to spend more to travel with their animal friends.

A 2018 study by Pawlicy.com found that around 57% of households in the country include at least one pet, with dogs as the most popular household animal, followed by cats.

In a 2018 study conducted by the American Pet Products Association, it was found that Americans spent $62 billion on their pets, including $6.2 billion on services like pet grooming and accommodations. The same study found that about 37% of pet owners take their pets with them when they travel.

As a result, the number of hotels allowing pets has been increasing, along with pet-friendly listings in short-term rental platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo.
t.
Virginia is a pet loving state with around 55.5% of households having pets.
Its next door neighbor, West Virginia, leads the pack of states with the highest pet ownership, with around 70.7% of households owning a pet.

Other neighboring states, such as North Carolina, South Carolina, and Maryland also registered high pet ownership rates. Since residents in nearby areas are more likely to travel to SML for a quick getaway, making your rental pet friendly gives you a competitive edge in this large market segment.

2. You can earn additional income

A pet-welcoming policy offers the potential for additional income. Many pet-friendly rentals charge a pet deposit, a part of which may not be refunded. The deposits can help you pay for the cost of any damages caused by four legged guests, but any unused non-refundable amount can be extra income for you.

In many properties, guests who bring their pets are charged a higher rate. Alternatively, the pet may be charged as an extra guest, especially if it’s a large animal.

Many pet owners understand and are willing to pay these extra costs, particularly since leaving their pets with a sitter or a boarding place will likely cost them more. Several studies have also shown that pet owners are generally wealthier so they have the means and the motivation to pay more for pet-friendly lodging.

3. You can earn loyal customers

Pet lovers appreciate hosts and rental owners who welcome their fur babies. Since it can be difficult to find pet-friendly accommodations, they tend to book the same property in their next visits to the area, especially when they’re satisfied with their experience the first time around. Many are more than happy to leave a good review, which can help boost your reputation and influence other renters to choose your property.

4. You can potentially get more bookings during off seasons

According to several studies, both demographics are more likely to own pets and bring their furry families along on vacations. Making your rental pet friendly will increase your chances of getting booked by these off-season travelers.

The disadvantages of a pet-friendly rental property

While welcoming pets into your vacation rental has a ton of potential benefits, it also has its disadvantages.

1. You may have to spend more on repairs and maintenance

A pet-friendly policy can potentially give you more income, but it can also add to your expenses. It’s not always possible to keep pets from damaging the property, such as scratching the walls or floors, breaking appliances and decors, or staining the carpets. You may need to spend extra on repairs, and certainly need to spend more in cleaning and sanitizing the property to deodorize, remove pet dander and pet hairs, and ensure it’s free from tick and flea infestation.

This is why it’s important to ask for a pet deposit or charge more for pet accommodation. Come up with a reasonable figure that will cover the additional expenses and any likely damage – and throw in a little extra for the value-added service. You’ll be happy to know that most pet owners are responsible individuals who hold themselves accountable for their furry family members and their behavior.

2. A pet welcoming policy may turn away non-pet guests

Even when you keep your property spotless and well-maintained, non-pet guests may have a different idea of what a pet-friendly vacation home is like. They might think pet odor, scratches on surfaces everywhere, pet hairs, and other unappealing images. People with allergies to pet dander – about 15% of the population – will also likely stay away from a pet-friendly rental.

Perhaps there’s little you can do to change the mind of those who are determined to avoid pet-friendly properties. But to many non-pet owners, a pet-welcoming policy does not factor that much — if it does at all — into their choice of rentals.

The important thing to remember is to advertise your property as pet-friendly to avoid complaints or conflicts with non-pet guests who may not be happy about booking a pet-friendly home without knowing it from the start.

3. Neighbors might complain

It can’t be helped — pets, especially dogs, can create noise that may annoy the neighbors. Or they might get into the neighbor’s property and cause some damage.

If you can, put a fence around your property to keep pets from trespassing into the neighbors’. You can also include guest policies that will ask pet owners to keep their furry babies indoors at night to keep their barking from disturbing the homes next door.

It will also help to choose a property that’s separated from the neighbors with plenty of space in between.

Adding a pet policy to your rental agreement

Having a pet-friendly policy does come with some risks. To protect you and your investment, it’s important to have a clear-cut agreement with renters that spell out their responsibilities and yours. This will also help avoid any misunderstanding and conflicts that can escalate into something truly unpleasant and burdensome.

Here are a few tips to keep in mind when adding a pet policy to your rental agreement:

1. Be specific with the types of pets allowed in the property

If you welcome dogs but not cats or other types of animals, you should clearly state that in your pet policy.

Many rental owners welcome other domestic pets, such as birds, fish, hamsters, and rabbits, but are not comfortable with having exotic animals like snakes and lizards. It’s up to you to decide which types of animal to welcome in your rental, but you might want to consider the potential risk and damage a type of pet can cause.

2. Spell out any restrictions on the type of animal to allow

While you welcome dogs in your property, you might want to exclude certain breeds that are considered “dangerous.” Whether or not any breed is actually dangerous is subject to debate, but as the property owner, you have the right to ban those that you think might pose greater risks. Some insurance companies will also not cover liability arising from “dangerous dog breeds.”

Size is another factor to consider. Instead of banning certain breeds, you can screen pet guests based on their height or weight. For example, you can state that only pets weighing no more than 20 pounds or are no more than 3 feet high are allowed.

3. Define the number of pets allowed

Most vacation rental owners allow only one pet at a time, but you can welcome more if you want. Just make sure to state the maximum number of pets your guests are allowed to bring.

4. Define other pet requirements

Legal requirements, such as tags and licenses with vaccination information, are non-negotiable and are required at all times. Vaccines for rabies, for example, are mandatory anywhere in the US. These requirements and the proofs you need have to be spelled out in your rental agreement.

You may also want to include other health, sanitation, and safety policies that are not legally required but can give you – and the pet owner – better peace of mind, such as:

• Requiring a flea and tick repellant treatment before the visit
• Allowing only spayed or neutered dogs
• Allowing only dogs of a certain age
• Banning dogs that have been trained for fights or have a history of violence

5. Spell out pet owners’ responsibilities

Your guests should be accountable for their pets’ actions and behavior while staying in your property. In your rental agreement, you must clearly state pet owners’ responsibilities, as well as your house rules pertaining to pets.

These are a few of the most common issues to cover:

• Pet waste
  Add a clause requiring pet owners to clean up after their pets and dispose of pet waste promptly and properly
• Leash
  Many neighborhoods and areas in Smith Mountain Lake require dogs to be leashed at all times when they’re outside the house. Include a clause in your agreement stating that pet owners must comply with these rules and ordinances. In addition, you might want to include your own requirement to keep a pet leashed when outdoors — except in designated places — to keep them from disturbing the neighbors and other guests.
• Cages
  For other pets, such as birds and hamsters, consider adding a clause stating the animals must be caged at all times to avoid damages to your property
• Off-limit areas
  If you want to keep pets away from certain parts of the home, such as the bedroom or the furniture, you must state this clearly on the agreement
• HOA rules
  If your property is in a neighborhood with an HOA, you must provide renters with a copy of HOA rules, including those relating to pets, and add a clause in your agreement that the renter agrees to abide by these rules
• Supervision
  Clearly state that pet owners must never leave their furry friends unattended whether inside or outside the property

5. Pet deposits and other pet fees

Your agreement must detail any required pet deposit or pet fee, and if all or a part of it may be refunded. State the conditions and situations where the pet deposit may be used, and if any unused amount will be returned to the guest.

The agreement must also say that pet owners are responsible for any damage or disturbance their furry companions might cause, and that they are liable for the costs of these damages in excess of a required pet deposit.

Pet proofing your SML vacation rental

While an agreement can cover damages a pet might cause on your property, you can take steps and adopt measures to minimize these damages, and ensure your property remains (largely) intact after a pet owning guest has checked out.

Here are some pet-proofing ideas:

• Select flooring and other surface materials that are scratch resistant, and if possible, stain proof
• Select durable furniture that will not get easily damaged by a playful pet
• Add a thick covering to your sofas
• Remove fragile items or decors, or place them in areas that are out of reach of your animal guests
• Remove plants that may be toxic to dogs and other animals
• Provide your guests with the things they might need to keep pets under control and to minimize damages, such as leashes, house cleaning materials, stain removers, pet litter disposal bags, and dog towels
• Consider adding indoor gates to keep pets away from restricted areas around the home
• Put up fences to make sure your four legged guests don’t wander off into the neighbor’s
• Provide an outdoor washing area and equipment for pets so they don’t need to be washed in bathrooms inside the house
• Provide your guests with a guidebook that contains your house rules regarding pets, as well as pet-friendly places to visit in Smith Mountain Lake

Find the perfect Smith Mountain Lake property to invest in

Pet-friendly Smith Mountain Lake is the perfect vacation spot for animal lovers. With the right property and preparations, a pet-welcoming vacation rental in our piece of paradise can be a highly profitable investment.

I have over 33 years of experience in Smith Mountain Lake real estate, and know the area and the local market by heart. I can help you find the right investment property that will attract high quality renters and customers, and I will be happy to guide you in turning it into a profitable pet friendly business.

Get in touch with me today at 540.493.1690 or drop me a note here to get started.

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If you’ve ever had fantasies about dining by the water, Smith Mountain Lake is the place to be. This man-made reservoir is surrounded by a variety of lakeside restaurants, all of which can be easily reached by land or by boat. No need to worry about parking—docking your boat is easy because there are many boat slips available.

Take in the stunning views of the Blue Ridge Mountains while you enjoy your meal. If you want to work up an appetite before dining, you can go swimming, boating, or kayaking, among many other lakeside activities.

After a sumptuous meal, you can sit back and relax in your residence or vacation rental in one of the many stunning waterfront communities at Smith Mountain Lake. If you ever want to visit the city to widen your dining options, you can head to Roanoke and Lynchburg, which are both about an hour’s drive away from the heart of Smith Mountain Lake.

To help you plan your next meal out, check out some of my favorite top restaurants in and around Smith Mountain Lake.

The best restaurants in and around Smith Mountain Lake

The Blackwater Cafe
4730 Scruggs Road, Moneta, VA

Family-owned and operated, The Blackwater Cafe provides the Smith Mountain Lake community with fresh and delicious seasonal food. It’s a local favorite and also a great place to celebrate a special occasion. It’s open for dinner from Wednesday to Sunday at 5 p.m.

You can dine in or opt for curbside pickup and free delivery. You can even place your order days ahead. Weekly specials include their pulled pork sandwich with fries and slaw, prime rib with baked potato, and seafood special. Drop by on Sunday for half-price appetizers.

If you’re dining in, make a reservation for a table by the fireplace. Feast on filet mignon, pan-seared salmon, or grilled bone-in pork chop. For beer fans, The Blackwater Café offers 64-ounce growlers that you can pair with a Blackwater burger or fried chicken tenders. Oenophiles can choose from an extensive wine list of American and globally sourced wines.

Old Oak Cafe
400 Scruggs Road, Moneta, VA

Owners Annie and Jo-Ann are life-long friends who “aim to do things right, give people what they want, and do it with a smile.” And after working in the restaurant industry for over 60 years, they’re finally able to serve the food they like following their philosophy at Old Oak Cafe, one of the go-to breakfast spots in Smith Mountain Lake.

Tuck into pancakes, French toast, or Belgian waffles. Choose from a variety of pancakes, flavors, such as buttermilk, chocolate chip, and blueberry. If you’ve got a hearty appetite, order the Old Oak Breakfast, which consists of two eggs, your choice of ham, bacon or sausage, toast, and one side. Breakfast sides include fried potatoes, hash brown casserole, and grits.

But the Old Oak Café isn’t just about breakfast. They also have an extensive list of burgers, including the classic Café burger, the All Things Onion burger, and the Hawaiian burger if you want to drop by for a spot of lunch or dinner. If sandwiches are more your style, select a classic Reuben, a patty melt, or a fried fish fillet.

If you want something more filling, order the meatloaf, chopped sirloin steak, or steak and shrimp. Wash it down with beer or wine from their carefully curated menu. Pie lovers will be pleased to hear that there’s apple, cherry, and blueberry pie on the menu. If you’d rather have cake, ask your server about Old Oak Café’s daily cake selection.

You can dine in or opt for takeout or curbside pickup. They’re open Monday to Saturday from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. and from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Sunday.

Portside Grill & Bar
3619 Airport Road, Moneta, VA

Looking for the best Cuban sandwich in Smith Mountain Lake? Drop by Portside Grill and Bar, Smith Mountain Lake’s only restaurant on the water. This Key West-style establishment is well-known in the area for its casual food and drinks.

Portside is open from 3 to 8 p.m. on Friday, from 12 to 8 p.m. on Saturday, and from 12 to 6 p.m. on Sunday. You can dine in or grab some takeout. But if you’re craving for seafood, Seafood Saturday is the best day to drop by. Their Saturday menu often features pan-seared scallops and shrimp po’ boy sandwiches.

For meat lovers, dig into their chicken wings with their No Name hot sauce, available in different varieties like classic golden wings or chili lime. Munch on a burger or hotdog sandwich while you watch the sun set. Portside Grill and Bar is the perfect place for those who are looking to kick back and relax al fresco while enjoying an ice-cold beer paired with tasty food.

Vinny’s Italian Grill & Pizzeria
16547 Moneta Road, Moneta, VA

There is no need to head to the Big Apple if you’re looking for New York-style pizza, hefty subs, and scrumptious meatballs and pasta dishes. Just drop by Vinny’s Italian Grill and Pizzeria in Moneta, a neighborhood pizzeria that combines traditional Italian dishes with unique favorites.

Start your meal with fresh mozzarella sticks wrapped in light breading and fried to golden brown perfection. Vinny’s specialties include the chicken, veal and eggplant parmigiana, chicken piccata, and lasagna. Choose from mouthwatering, hand-tossed cheese or Sicilian New York-style pizza. If you’re feeling more adventurous, order their Meat Feast pizza, the West Coast pizza (crisp bacon, fresh pineapple and mozzarella), or the The Works pizza (red onions, mushrooms, and broccoli.)

If you’re craving for something else, try their calzones and strombolis. There’s also a gluten-free menu that features primavera and a four-cheese ravioli. Wash it all down with fresh-brewed iced tea. For dessert, don’t forget to indulge in an original or chocolate cannoli, an Italian confection of cylindrical cheese-filled pastry, or a decadent tiramisu.

Vinny’s was established by Vincenzo Vitale in 1998. It has since grown to 13 locations across the Southeast United States, mainly in Virginia and North Carolina. Vinny’s is open Mondays through Sundays for dine-ins. Curbside pickup and delivery are also available.

Jake’s Place
1041 Harbour Inn Lane, Moneta, VA

For waterfront dining close to the Halesford Bridge, head to Jake’s Place. This pet-friendly restaurant serves takeout and is open for limited indoor and outdoor dining from Wednesday to Friday from 5 to 9 p.m. and from 12 to 9 p.m. on weekends.

Choose from a variety of handhelds, including their chicken salad panini, The Nella (chicken breast with a smoky seasoning and smoked Gouda cheese), and shrimp tacos. If you’re looking for surf and turf, you’ve come to the right place: Jake’s has chicken tenders, fish-n-chips, coconut shrimp, or drunken sirloin.

Enjoy exotic drinks like the PB&J (screwball peanut butter whiskey and cranberry juice) or stick to the more prosaic Jake’s Mule and Italian Margarita. Jake’s Place also serves “canine cuisine” in the form of dog burgers and chicken breasts with sides of peanut butter and milk bones.

Stop by for Sunday breakfast from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. to enjoy Jake’s omelette (three eggs, mushrooms, peppers, and onions), French toast, or breakfast tacos. There are also cocktails that are only served on Sunday, like the Breakfast Bloody (vodka mixed with house-made spicy Bloody Mary mix) and Tropical and Island mimosas containing champagne and dragon berry or coconut rum.

Edo Grill & Sushi
1035 Mercantile Street, Suite 104, Moneta, VA

Think there’s no Japanese food at Smith Mountain Lake? Think again. You’ll be sure to sate your craving for Japanese cuisine at Edo Grill & Sushi. This family-owned restaurant also takes pride in its teppanyaki grill and made-to-order sushi.

Choose from house specials such as the Volcano Roll which features spicy tuna, or the Red Dragon roll, which contains shrimp tempura. Nigiri and maki sushi are also available. If teppanyaki is more to your taste, take advantage of the lunch special, where you can choose from options like chicken, NY steak, and shrimp. Treat yourself or a loved one to an Edo Emperor Dinner, which features options like filet mignon, lobster tail, shrimp, and chicken.

Edo Grill and Sushi is open for dine-in and takeout from 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. from Monday to Thursday, 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, and 12 to 9 p.m. on Sunday.

The Landing Restaurant
1217 Graves Harbor Trail, Huddleston, VA

Located at The Point in Mariners Landing, The Landing Restaurant is well-known in Smith Mountain Lake for its elegant service, stunning lake views, and fresh take on New American cuisine.

To start, feast on Classic Peruvian shrimp ceviche or charred octopus. Order Lobster linguini or Thai Noodles to enjoy their homemade noodles. The entrees cover both land and sea, with offerings like Pittsburgh fillet, Peruvian beer stir fry, and Chilean sea bass. Make sure to leave some room for the Cremeaux or the Krispy Kreme donut bread pudding.

The Landing’s new Mariners Landing location is currently open for curbside takeout and dockside dining on Wednesdays through Sundays. They’re set to accept reservations for indoor and outdoor dining starting May 1.

Smith Mountain Lake Coffee House
Bridgewater Plaza, 16430 Booker T Washington Highway, Moneta, VA

Start your day right with a trip to the locally owned Smith Mountain Lake Coffee House. Order an SML sunrise bagel (sausage, egg, and cheese) or an SML Morning Glory bagel (Black Forest ham, egg, and cheese) to go with your Americano, macchiato, or s’mores mocha.

Vegetarians will enjoy the no deli meat salads, including Caesar, Cobb, and cranapple walnut. If you have a sweet tooth, pick up a muffin, a scone, or any of their assorted pastries. Looking for gluten-free options? Smith Mountain Lake Coffee House also serves gluten-free chocolate chip cookies and brownies. They also have a sugar-free keto cheesecake.

Enjoy a signature Ham & Turkey Cobb Salad or a Signature Rotisserie Chicken Salad for lunch, or a slice of quiche. Grab a picturesque seat on the outdoor deck by the lake. Smith Mountain Lake Coffee House is open for dine-in, curbside pickup and takeout from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. every day except Sunday, when they close at 2 p.m.

Drifter’s
Crystal Shores Marina Resort, 1617A Crystal Shores Drive, Moneta, VA

Drifter’s a beloved seasonal restaurant in Smith Mountain Lake, located right on the water. They are famous for their Optimus Prime and Prime Burgers, both of which feature juicy USDA prime ribeye. For health nuts, the Tree Hugger is a rich and spicy black bean burger that’s both kosher and vegetarian. Taco lovers will be pleased to find ahi tuna tacos, shrimp tacos, and Drifter’s signature chocolate bbq tacos.

End your meal with Nannie’s Signature Chocolate Chess Pie or Lolo’s Key Lime Pie. Parking can be a problem, but don’t let that put you off this local gem. They also serve a puppy platter for your four-legged friend.

Drifter’s is only open during the summer, so you’ll have to wait a bit to experience its tropical setting. It’s worth it. During the summer season, it’s open from 4 to 9 p.m. on Friday, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Saturday, and 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Sunday.

The Copper Kettle Co.
52 Firstwatch Drive, Moneta, VA

Owner Micky Martin has over 30 years of experience in the food industry. Eventually, he decided to create a restaurant where friends, family and neighbors could have a great meal and hang out with a cold beer or a glass of wine. And so, he founded The Copper Kettle Co.

The Copper Kettle Co. features an eclectic menu, with dishes that range from traditional southern classics to gourmet Italian cuisine. Local favorites include their Wings and Drummies, a mozzarella caprese salad, and their  charcuterie board. If you’re having brunch, choose from an array of options, including delectable pork rolls, eggs Benedict, and quiches. For lunch, the catfish po’ boy, meatball sub, and catfish plate are highly recommended.

They also offer a variety of sides, such as french fries, onion rings, and cheesy grits. Health nuts will be happy to see the gluten-free Hot Grain bowl, which features quinoa, chickpeas, kale, and edamame. If you’re not on a diet, you might want to dig into a Smith Mountain burger, which is loaded with bacon and topped with an over-easy egg.

For dinner, choose from grilled Scottish salmon, a meatloaf platter, or the crowd favorite, VooDoo pasta, with Andouille sausage and mushrooms simmered in a Cajun cream sauce. They also have a kid’s menu. Their chicken tenders, grilled cheese sandwich, ot catfish basket will be sure to satisfy even the pickiest palate.

Make sure to leave some room for dessert, like The Copper Kettle Co.’s Swiss chalet chocolate cake and key lime pie. The Copper Kettle Co. also has an extensive beer and wine collection.

The Copper Kettle Co. is open from Wednesdays through Sundays. You can dine in and order takeout. If you want to dine al fresco, head to The Copper Kettle Co.’s outdoor patio, which has a great view of Smith Mountain Lake.

Moosie’s
Bridgewater Plaza, 16 Bridgewater Pointe Pl, Moneta, VA 24121

Moosie’s is the best place to be in Smith Mountain Lake for amazing sandwiches and tasty buffalo wings. Their many options include hoagies, hot roast beef sandwiches, The Vegetarian, and Diana’s Delight, which features turkey, pastrami, and Swiss cheese, with thousand island dressing.

Start your meal with fried pickles, mozzarella sticks, or nachos & cheese. If you’re feeling hungry, order a Moose burger, which features two patties with sauteed mushrooms and onions topped with Swiss cheddar cheese. If you’re craving for Mexican food, they also have tacos.

For a taste of old Sicily, order Kyle’s Kreation, which features baked ham, salami, and melted provolone. End your meal with a dessert like Moosie’s NY-style cheesecake, chocolate Moose cake, or their brownie sundae. If you want a fitting memento to commemorate your Moosie’s experience, you can buy a Moosie’s t-shirt.

Moosie’s is open everyday for dine-in and takeout from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Expert lifestyle recommendations in Smith Mountain Lake

I’ve been living in the Smith Mountain Lake area with my family for over 20 years, and it’s one of the best decisions I have ever made. Let it be one that you’ll keep close to your heart forever, too.

I’m Jane Horne, and I’ve been working as a real estate agent in Smith Mountain Lake since 1986. I know this community and its restaurants by heart, and I can’t wait to show you around.

Put my local expertise and knowledge of the housing market and all its intricacies to work for you! Contact me today through this form or give me a call at 540.493.1690 to learn more about the best waterfront dining and real estate options here in Smith Mountain Lake.

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Smith Mountain Lake is one of Western Virginia’s biggest natural attractions, drawing in a great number of tourists and water enthusiasts every year. With 20,000 acres of water and 500 miles of shoreline, the area offers plenty of recreational opportunities like boating, fishing, and swimming. 

That’s not all. Tourists and residents alike will find plenty of other activities to enjoy including camping, hiking, picnicking, nature watching, special events, and shopping at the Smith Mountain Lake Visitor Center.

Certainly, the area’s biggest attraction remains Smith Mountain Lake’s natural beauty. The manmade lake, edged by lush vegetation, waterfront homes, and piers and marinas, boasts wooded peninsulas, approximately 25 islands, and plenty of water and land-based activities  that make living there idyllic for those who want activity and tranquility in equal measure.

Residents have pride of place and actively look after their surroundings to make sure they continue to enjoy the placid waters, misty mornings, lush greenery, and nature’s myriad treats to the senses, including bird calls. The promise of owning a slice of this paradise in a community of just 18,000 residents is a dream that visitors who come for a vacation sometimes stay for good.

Golf courses in Smith Mountain Lake

Aside from the natural attractions, Smith Mountain Lake is also a popular spot for golfing, thanks to an abundance of golf courses, both private and public.

Below are four of the most popular golfing locations in the area.

1. The Water’s Edge
   1825 Waters Edge Drive, Penhook, VA
    
   The Water’s Edge is one of the premier golfing destinations not only in Smith Mountain Lake, but the entire western Virginia. Adding to the excitement is the fact it was recently purchased by McConnell Golf, the same group behind famous courses such as Porters Neck Country Club in Wilmington and the exquisitely renovated Raleigh Country Club in North Carolina.
    
   Designed by distinguished golf course architect, R.F. Loving Jr., all 18 holes of this PGA-recognized golf course feature stunning views, most noteworthy of which is the signature Island Green on Hole #7 that feels like it’s one with the lake itself, with parts of it extending into the water. 
    
   If that doesn’t sound enticing enough, there’s over 700 acres of golfing terrain to revel in, elevated by an excellent view of the lake at 15 of the course’s holes. Meanwhile, the sophisticated clubhouse offers multiple lifestyle amenities including numerous bars and restaurants, a junior Olympic-sized swimming pool, tennis courts, a men’s lounge, and a world-class fitness center. Beyond that, members also get to enjoy boating, fishing, horseback riding, and walking trails on the country club grounds.
    
   For those who want to call The Water’s Edge their home, there are three lovely neighborhoods to choose from, including The Grande Villas with its super-exclusive neighborhood of only 10 homes nestled on the waterfront. There’s also the 25-acre Golfer’s Crossing, with 45 single-family homes of exceptionally large floor plans ranging from 2,250 to 3,600 square feet. The third and newest community, Village Green, is just a stone’s throw away from the clubhouse.
    
2. The Waterfront Country Club
   275 Anchor Drive, Moneta, VA
    
   As the very first country club community at Smith Mountain Lake, the Waterfront possesses a sophisticated yet homey vibe that you’ll always feel eager to come home to. Built in 1976 by Ron Willard Sr., and now also owned by McConnell Golf, the country club sits on 750 breathtaking acres and 8.5 miles of pristine and serene shoreline, complemented perfectly by a championship-level 18-hole golf course designed by George Dillon of the Fazio Group. 
    
   As another popular golfing community, The Waterfront offers plenty of attractive real estate properties to choose from including townhomes, condos, custom homes, and waterfront homes that offer families and retirees a maintenance-free lifestyle right beside the awe-inspiring beauty of Smith Mountain Lake. 
    
   But golf and housing aren’t the only enticements at the Waterfront, as the club also provides numerous opportunities for socializing and recreation. For starters, there’s a 22,000-square-foot clubhouse where members and guests can enjoy gourmet dining options and lounge in both formal and casual settings. Other recreational amenities include tennis, pickleball, children and adult’s swimming pool, a fitness facility, and even a boat dock.
    
3. Copper Cove
   360 Chestnut Creek Drive, Hardy, VA
    
   As scenic and challenging as any private club, the Copper Cove public golf course carries the signature of Russell Breeden, Virginia’s homegrown golf course designer who has close to 100 courses to his name. Formerly known as The Westlake, Copper Cove received its current name after its recent purchase by McFryeVo Three LLC. Despite the changing of hands, the short but sweet course retains the same level of challenge it’s been known for, demanding a high level of playing from golfers of all abilities.
    
   Golfing newbie? Copper Cove offers lessons for new and beginner golfers. Lacking some golf equipment? The onsite golf shop ensures you have everything you need before heading out to the course. The country club also comes with swimming and dining facilities for a truly relaxing stay.
    
   Aside from an 18-hole course, the Copper Cove also has its own golf community comprising single-family residences, vacation homes, custom-built properties, and more.
    
4. Mariners Landing
   2052 Lake Retreat Road, Huddleston, VA
    
   With the hills of Bedford County on one side and the shores of Smith Mountain Lake on the other, Mariners Landing combines scenic vistas and stellar amenities into one special package for golfers and nature lovers alike.
    
   Among the many niceties to enjoy include tennis courts, indoor and outdoor pools, basketball, volleyball, hiking trails, and even a private beach. Water enthusiasts can rent different types of water vessels – boats, paddleboards, and kayaks – and paddle to their heart’s content.
    
   A lovely and welcoming golf and lake community, Mariners Landing is an idyllic location for rest and relaxation with a golf course and multiple resort and club amenities for vacationing as well as year-round living.
    

Golf courses near Smith Mountain Lake

In case you’re looking for a new challenge or to broaden your game, there are plenty of other golf locations near Smith Mountain Lake, especially in the Roanoke area. Here are just a few examples.

1. Blue Hills Golf Club
   2002 Blue Hills Drive NE, Roanoke, VA
    
   The Blue Hills Golf Club is practically a cultural feature in Roanoke’s Blue Hills. With almost 6,500 yards of championship greens, the course offers plenty of enjoyable challenges for beginner and advanced golfers alike.
    
2. Ole Monterey Golf Club
   201 Tinker Creek Lane NE, Roanoke, VA
    
   As the only public golf course in the Roanoke Valley, the Ole Monterey Golf Club prides itself on its excellent course condition, as well as the outstanding service of its staff. In existence since 1920, it’s the second oldest club in the Roanoke Valley, exuding a rustic charm that very few courses possess.
    
3. Hunting Hills Country Club
   5220 Hunting Hills Drive, Roanoke, VA
    
   Many guests treat Hunting Hills Country Club as a “home away from home,” where parents can let their kids frolic while they receive some much-needed rest and relaxation, pampered by the club’s highly trained staff. In addition, the club is widely known for its well-attended event schedules including pool parties, wine dinners, autumn festivals, and more.
    
4. Mayflower Hills Disc Golf Course at Explore Park
   3134-3246 State Route 761, Roanoke, VA
    
   At the Mayflower Hills Disc Golf Course at Explore Park, you’ll find 18 holes of purpose-built disc golf play, imbued with the smart use of terrain, including hills, woods and fields, to add to the fun and challenge. A family-oriented attraction, Mayflower Hills Disc Golf Course at Explore Park also offers tournament level play for seasoned golfers.
    
5. Harbortown Mini Golf
   16430 Booker T. Washington Highway, Moneta, VA
    
   Putting is one of the most precise and difficult parts of the wonderful game of golf. If you want to develop your putting skills to perfection, then Harbortown Mini Golf deserves a visit or two. A short five-minute drive from Smith Mountain Lake, the courses offer a unique challenge made more fun by Wild West-themed attractions.
    

How to enjoy golf and stay safe

Even with the speed with which Americans are being vaccinated, health experts still want us to adhere to safety guidelines for the time being. But that doesn’t mean we should skimp on having a good time at the golf course. Keep the following safety tips before heading out to the greens.

1. Keep a hygiene kit

   Make sure you’ve got the essentials with you like face masks and hand sanitizers while playing. It’s also a good idea to bring some disinfecting wipes in case there are surfaces you might want to wipe before touching. Likewise on the topic of safety, it wouldn’t hurt to have an extra handful of tees and balls – as well as a few extra face masks should the one you’re wearing become sweaty.

2. Bring drinks and snacks

   Bring a reusable water bottle along and a few snacks in case refreshments are limited at the golf course you visit, if not altogether unavailable. It’s important to stay hydrated and maintain your energy level if you plan to play a round.

3. Keep your distance

   Stay six feet away from other players, and wear your protective gear at all times. Remember: no touching, so forgo the high fives, fist bumps, and backslaps.

4. Read up on the golf course’s safety requirements

   Some services and offerings at your favorite club may have been modified to protect players and comply with current health protocols, so call the facility to inquire and reserve a slot. You might also need to know about latest advisories or updates before you can play.

5. Enjoy the game

   You’re back to playing the game that you love, and that’s the most important thing. So don’t let any restriction or requirement get the best of you. Take a deep breath, swing, and have fun. Remember that despite changes, it’s still better than not playing at all.

Changes you may encounter

Although different clubs implement different methods to address the safety of their customers, basic protective measures are standard across the board, including social distancing, regular disinfection, and minimal to no contact. Aside from these universal safety standards, some adjustments have been made to the way the game is played to lower the risk of infection among players.

• Bunker rakes. Some clubs have removed bunker rakes from the course.
• Flagsticks. Just like bunker rakes, there are clubs that have opted to set up the course sans flagsticks. In courses where they remain in use, players are required to use hand sanitizers or disinfecting wipes before touching a flagstick, or are forbidden from touching them at all.
• Hole modifications.  To prevent a ball from holing (and being touched), hole liners such as foam noodles or plastic piping are being used. Scoring will be based on the Rules of Handicapping to accommodate this change.
• Scoring. Manual scoring methods are out, so instead of physical scorecards, apps and specialized software will be used.

Golf communities in Smith Mountain Lake

There’s no question: whether you’re planning a vacation or settling in Smith Mountain Lake for good, the residential areas here are perfect places to stay in. From exclusive country club homes to luxurious lakefront properties, this East Coast treasure is both a sanctuary and paradise to those who want a respite from the hustle and bustle of the urban jungle. 

 

With both Roanoke and Lynchburg just an hour or two away from its heart, Smith Mountain Lake is quite simply the place in Virginia t for folks who want more out of life. 

Smith Mountain Lake is a great locale to live in, and the quality and variety of the homes for sale here attest to this. Single-family homes, townhomes, condos, vacation homes – whether you’re already familiar with the area or want to know more about your real estate options, don’t hesitate to reach out to me, Jane Horne, so I can share my real estate knowledge to help you find the home or apartment in the Smith Mountain Lake community that’s right for you.

7 biggest benefits of living in a golf course community

Learn more about these properties here.

Looking for the perfect home? Your search could soon end at one of Smith Mountain Lake’s golf communities. Even if you’re not a golfing enthusiast, purchasing a property in a golf community comes with plenty of lifestyle perks that you might find enticing.

1. A quiet, stress-free environment

   When you live in a golf community, nature and tranquility surrounds you. You’re always breathing fresh air, and stunning lush greenery welcomes you every time you open your window. Everything you see is professionally maintained, which means you never have to worry about overgrown grass or trees in need of pruning. All these add up to an idyllic, relaxing, and rejuvenating environment that only serves to motivate and energize your every waking minute.

2. A dynamic social life

   There’s something about golf communities that attract the best folks. Needless to say, when you move into a golf community home, you’ll be surrounded by pleasantly mannered people who share your interests and make great company. With like-minded neighbors around you, life will surely feel better.

3. Prestige

   Living in a golf community comes with an air of exclusivity that few neighborhoods can match. Needless to say, purchasing a golf community property does wonders to people’s reputations. Expect approving looks when you tell people you live in one of Smith Mountain Lake’s posh golf country clubs.

4. Access to sophisticated amenities

   Golf communities are meticulously planned to ensure easy access to many lifestyle and leisure facilities including fitness centers, spas, swimming pools, tennis courts, entertainment venues, and more. Some even have their own schools, churches, malls, hospitals, and libraries, to name a few.

5. The best of healthy living

   Nature, great neighbors, easy access to health and lifestyle activities – every facet of a golf community is designed to provide its residents many of their wants and needs. For golf lovers especially, living where you can play your favorite game anytime you want, combined with all the perks that a golf community affords, life can’t possibly get any better.

6. Immense resale value

   If you decide to sell your golf community in the future, you’ll find that such sought-after properties allow you to price them at rates that add up to a pretty penny. Although home prices generally fluctuate along with market conditions, the value of properties in exclusive golf communities often hold their own even when the overall real estate market is experiencing a downturn. The great return on investment is why many homebuyers won’t think twice about snapping up a home for sale in a golf course community such as the ones found in Smith Mountain Lake.

7. Easy access to your favorite game

   Undeniably, the biggest perk of having a house in a golf community is the availability of tee time. You’ll no longer have to travel long distances to play golf, and you can start playing as soon as you wake up.

Real estate agent for Smith Mountain Lake golf communities

Hopefully, you’ve now decided that buying a property at a reputable golf community is a real estate journey worth taking.

Get in touch with me, Jane Horne, to find the home of your dreams in Smith Mountain Lake. Feel free to give me a call at 540.493.1690 or email Jane(at)JaneAtTheLake(dotted)com. You can also send me a message here.

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Spend family time in Smith Mountain Lake Community Park

Enjoying Smith Mountain Lake

Smith Mountain Lake – SML to locals – is known as the “Jewel of the Blue Ridge Mountains.” Located in Southwestern Virginia, this large reservoir was created to generate power and control the Roanoke River’s water levels. The project spanned several decades, from its inception in the 1920s to the beginning of construction in 1960, and finally to its completion in 1963.

Considered as the “Lake Tahoe of the East,” Smith Mountain Lake is as beautiful as it is utilitarian. It is the most famous lake destination in the entire state of Virginia. With crystal blue waters nestled in a valley in the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains, Smith Mountain Lake offers breathtaking views anywhere you turn. It is difficult for many to believe that this masterpiece of nature and human ingenuity is just about an hour’s drive from the urban energy of Roanoke and Lynchburg .

It’s no wonder that Smith Mountain Lake has become a highly sought-after holiday destination. For its residents and frequent visitors, this place is paradise on earth.

Visiting Smith Mountain Lake Community Park

Smith Mountain Lake Community Park is located on a thickly wooded peninsula at the end of Park Place Boulevard, just across the bigger – and more crowded – Smith Mountain Lake State Park. Accessing the community park takes a little more effort. If you’re going by land, the fastest way to get there is via the 122 going to Westlake. Take a right at Scruggs Road then follow the signs along the winding path pointing you to this scenic park.

Smith Mountain Lake Community Park has remained a serene respite despite being at the center of this popular tourist area. Because of its relatively smaller size and location off the beaten path, it is mostly avoided by crowds, which has helped keep its hiking trails immaculate.

Opened in 2007 in Moneta, VA, this community park is 37 acres of wholesome fun. It offers a nice place by the lake to relax and enjoy endless activities with the entire family.

Things to do in Smith Mountain Lake Community Park

Family-friendly is the best way to describe the attractions at Smith Mountain Lake Community Park. With nearly two miles of walking trails and a beach area with active lifeguards, it is the perfect playground for nature and beach lovers.

• Sightseeing

  The beauty of Smith Mountain Lake is unforgettable. The stark contrast between the mountains and the water is a sight to behold. If you are the type of person who loves to go on spontaneous nature trips, this park is perfect for you. You can spend the entire day just walking around and taking in the gorgeous views.

  Besides the beautiful landscape, Smith Mountain Lake Community Park offers facilities that make a nature getaway more convenient, even for families with dogs and toddlers. Benches dot the hiking trails, perfect for a quick break. Moreover, there are designated picnic areas where the entire family can enjoy a packed lunch or snacks.

• Fishing

  There’s no better place to discover the joys of fishing than Smith Mountain Lake, and Smith Mountain Lake Community Park is an excellent place for new and veteran anglers. The park is equipped with a handicapped accessible fishing pier with a partial cover and a seating area. Cast a line, catch largemouth and smallmouth bass or catfish, and enjoy the stunning views in one great place.

• Picnicking

  Going on a picnic is a wonderful way to spend time with the family without breaking the bank. Smith Mountain Lake Community Park is the perfect place for it. The park features picnic shelters with grills in the same location as other amenities like restrooms and playgrounds.

• Dining

  For those who want to travel light and prefer eating out, there are several excellent dining options near the park:

  • Old Oak Cafe
    If you are heading to Smith Mountain Lake early, Old Oak Cafe should be your breakfast pit stop. Located along Scruggs Road, just a few minutes’ drive from the park, this popular breakfast spot serves home cooked-style meals in generous servings. Insider tip: get the eggs benedict and the pancakes—they’re perfect to start your day!

  • The Blackwater Café
    Also found along Scruggs Road just a short distance from the park, the Blackwater Café is an SML favorite since 2005. Their surf and turf menu hits just the right spot after an active day at the beach, and they have a great wine list to go with the delectable food.

  • Portside Grill and Bar
    If you’re visiting Smith Mountain Lake Community Park on a weekend, take a cruise on the lake and don’t miss the chance to dine at this lakeside open air restaurant. Serving guests only on Saturdays and Sundays, Portside Grill and Bar is the place to go to enjoy juicy burgers, Cuban sandwiches, and ice-cold beer while you watch a spectacular sunset over the lake.

• Swimming and other water activities

  Smith Mountain Lake Community Park has a designated swimming area and seasonal beach that may be used when there are lifeguards on duty. Stand up paddleboarding and kayaking are also great activities in the area, and rentals are also available seasonally.

• Hiking and bird watching

  The park’s easy two-mile loop trail makes hiking a family affair. The trail just skirts the lake and goes through a lush woodland of conifers, pines, and deciduous plants. Along the way, you can spot a wide variety of bird species, including songbirds, gulls, herons, and all kinds of waterfowl.

• Shopping

  Want to take a little piece of the lake with you? Drop by one of Smith Mountain Lake’s charming souvenir shops. Visit Gifts Ahoy for your standard souvenir fare, such as keychains, shirts, and home decor. Are you interested in bringing a taste of Virginia home? Mama Ann’s Gifts & Goodies sells not only beautiful trinkets and souvenirs, but also homemade sauces, jams, syrups, and other goodies.

Update on Smith Mountain Lake COVID-19 situation

Virginia and the county of Franklin have announced guidelines on visiting state and local parks amidst the current global crisis. The following is a summary of the latest guidance (updated as of March 1, 2021) on visiting parks and outdoor recreation areas in the state, including Smith Mountain Lake Community Park:

• Group gatherings of more than 25 people are prohibited in any outdoor park in the state. Likewise, visitors ages five and up are required to wear masks in indoor spaces within parks and recreation areas.
• Social distancing should be observed in all public spaces. Park visitors must maintain a distance of six feet to the next person. In places or situations where social distancing isn’t possible, face coverings are required.
• When overcrowding occurs, park authorities can impose closures or limit the occupancy.
• No team sports or entertainment group activities are allowed.

How to spend time in the outdoors safely

Experts have said that spending time in nature is an excellent way to maintain your health and well-being in these trying times. However, even while out in the great outdoors, you simply cannot let your guard down, especially when your and your family’s health is at stake.

To safely enjoy everything that Smith Mountain Lake Community Park has to offer, remember to do the following:

• Avoid peak times

  When planning a visit with the family, it is best to avoid peak times and stay in sections of the park where visitors are sparse. Before visiting, check the park’s website for any updates and additional social distancing guidelines.

  Likewise, take less congested routes. While it might take a few more minutes in an unfamiliar route, it is best to err on the side of caution. The fewer people you encounter outside of your group, the less likely you’ll get in contact with someone who’s infected.

• Wear a mask

  The Virginia state guidelines require the wearing of masks indoors. When outdoors, you may take off your mask but must put it back on when it is not possible to put a distance of six feet between you and another person. This applies to park trails and beaches. Always bring a mask with you so you can wear it when you can’t avoid crowds or getting too close to other people.

• Pack hand sanitizers and alcohol

  Aside from close contact, COVID-19 can be transmitted through respiratory droplets that stay on surfaces for a certain amount of time. This is why everyone is encouraged to always wash their hands. When you leave the house, it is ideal to always carry hand sanitizers and alcohol even on outdoor trips. Remind family members to avoid touching surfaces as much as possible. Encourage them to use hand sanitizers and refrain from touching their face during the trip.

• Sanitize surfaces before and after use

  The Franklin County Parks and Recreation Department has said that park facilities like bathrooms and playgrounds are not sanitized often, so visitors are encouraged to sanitize surfaces before and after using them.

• Feeling under the weather? Stay home

  When you’re not feeling well, exposing yourself to the elements lowers your immune system and makes you more susceptible to contracting COVID-19. The best time to enjoy a visit to Smith Mountain Lake is when you won’t have to worry about making your condition worse.

Why having a house near Smith Mountain Lake Community Park is the best decision you can make

Smith Mountain Lake’s breathtaking beauty and fun activities for the whole family keep people coming back for more. It’s not surprising that many tourists who frequent the area choose to make it their permanent home, or to have their very own getaway property here.

With its undiminishing popularity over the years, Smith Mountain Lake is also an ideal location for real estate investments. With tourists flocking to the area every year, short-term rentals are always in demand.

Furthermore, in light of the pandemic, more people today are looking to move away from crowded urban centers and into places where there’s more open space. As a result, a Smith Mountain Lake home promises to become even more desirable in the long term.

If you’re on the fence about buying a property in Smith Mountain Lake, here are just a few reasons why you should finally make that leap:

• That coveted waterfront lifestyle

  Did you know that living near a body of water is good for your health? When you live near a lake, a river, or the ocean, you enjoy fresh air, refreshing views, bountiful sunshine, and the calming sound of the gentle waves. A waterfront area also invites a healthy and active lifestyle, particularly in Smith Mountain Lake where you can enjoy a host of activities in the great outdoors.

• Access to Lynchburg and Roanoke

  There is no denying the astounding beauty of the Smith Mountain Lake area. But what makes this place even more special is the proximity to urban locations like Lynchburg and Roanoke. Buying a home in Smith Mountain Lake means you get to enjoy the best of both worlds. Bask in the beauty of nature while getting great access to the conveniences of city living. Who says you need to choose?

• Friendly & Welcoming Neighborhoods

  The different communities within Smith Mountain Lake are diverse and colorful. Each has its own distinct charm and brand of Virginia warmth. Purchasing a home in this beautiful location means you get to enjoy everything a small-town has to offer. A friendly and welcoming community—that is what awaits you and your family in Smith Mountain Lake.

• A wide range of real estate options

  Contrary to popular belief, living by a lake isn’t reserved for the rich and famous. At Smith Mountain Lake, there are plenty of real estate opportunities at every price point. Whether you are looking to purchase a single-family home, invest in a condo, or buy a sprawling estate, there is something to match what you’re looking for.

Smith Mountain Lake Real Estate: Buying A Home in the Area

Buying a home is as rewarding as it is complex. Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer or have done it before, it’s one of the most exciting experiences you can have in life.

But along with this, there are plenty of intricacies involved in buying real estate, especially in a highly desirable area like Smith Mountain Lake. And when you’re buying a waterfront property, the challenges are even more pronounced.

To ensure that you get the best results in your Smith Mountain Lake real estate transaction, keep these important pointers in mind:

• Visit the lake

  Most homebuyers today start their search online. While this first step is convenient, especially considering the global pandemic, there is nothing quite like experiencing Smith Mountain Lake’s splendor in person. It is a good idea to take a trip to the lake early on in the process to see what awaits you. See as many neighborhoods as you can so you’ll have an idea on what would be perfect for you and your family.

• Factor in the value of home improvements

  Buying a lakefront home is a dream for many. However, waterfront homes are also more susceptible to damages caused by the elements. Make sure to ask for a property disclosure from the seller and have a professional home inspection done so you get a good picture of the property’s condition. Furthermore, you may want to add features like a dock or a jetty. In determining your offer price for the home, factor the costs of any needed improvement and repairs.

• Connect with a seasoned local Realtor

  A home, particularly one that’s waterfront, is a major investment. It is a long-term commitment that requires great care and deliberation. Partnering with an experienced Realtor who is also a local expert can make the entire process less daunting and help you avoid costly mistakes. Moreover, the right professional will be able to offer you properties that you otherwise wouldn’t be privy to.

Live your dream waterfront lifestyle today

I have called Smith Mountain Lake home for more than two decades. My family and I moved to this beautiful area over 20 years ago and that remains to be one of my best decisions to date. I love being a resident of Smith Mountain Lake and I’m eager to help you live the dream, too!

As a resident, I know the ins and outs of the SML community by heart. Whether you’re looking to live permanently by the lake, have your very own getaway, or invest in this highly sought-after area, I have the knowledge and local expertise to help you find the lakefront home that’s perfect for you.

Learn more about the beautiful homes for sale and residential developments here in Smith Mountain Lake. Get in touch with me today at this website or give me a call at 540.493.1690 to get started.

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It is so easy to get caught up in work and deadlines that we forget to take care of ourselves. Given the current situation, multiple stressors pester our minds and souls daily. Now more than ever, it is necessary to relax and unwind every once in a while. It is vital to pick a vacation spot that you would enjoy the most.

Are you looking forward to the perfect weekend getaway destination, but you do not know where to go yet? In this article, I shall tell you the wonders of one of the top luxury vacation destinations. I will be your guide — without further ado, here are reasons why you should spend your weekend getaway in Smith Mountain Lakes, Virginia.

Have You Ever Been to Virginia?

Virginia is for lovers — anybody who has been to this state can attest to its slogan. Located between Florida and New York, this gateway to the South takes pride in its beautiful scenery and natural splendor. Virginia is the ultimate luxury vacation destination. Mountains, trails, lakes, rivers, beaches, and landscapes change with the four distinct seasons, creating a year of beauty in Virginia.

Virginia is 42,767 square miles in land area, and that is thousands of square miles of picturesque vacation destinations. The Blue Ridge and Allegheny mountains surround it, and the majestic Shenandoah Valley falls between these mountain ranges. The Piedmont region, blessed with rolling hills, gracefully flattens out into sand in the coastal plains towards the Atlantic Ocean.

Virginia is a majestic vacation destination for your next weekend getaway. It does not only have sandy beaches and the Blue Ridge Mountains, but it also has well-preserved historical attractions. Visitors may also spot numerous flora and fauna in the area. The best Virginia destinations include Roanoke, Alexandria, Virginia Beach, Williamsburg, Charlottesville, Hampton, Norfolk, and Smith Mountain Lake.

Smith Mountain Lake: The Jewel of the Blue Ridge Mountains

One perfect weekend getaway spot in Virginia stands out — Smith Mountain Lake. Dubbed the Jewel of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Smith Mountain Lake is the second largest body of freshwater in the state. It is surrounded by the grand Blue Ridge Mountains, rightfully earning its nickname. Smith Mountain Lake has 500 miles of shoreline and spans 40 miles.

On its north shores, Smith Mountain Lake State Park and Bedford County bund Smith Mountain Lake. On its southwest shores are the Moneta and Franklin County, and on the southeast is Pittsylvania County, Leesville Lake.

Due to its surrounding places, there is an abundance of activities to do when in Smith Mountain Lake. The lake offers outdoor picnic areas, hiking trails, canoe trips, lakefront condominiums, and vacation homes. Motels and resort accommodations are also available for you to stay in during your luxury getaway. The opportunities for boating and freshwater fishing are the highlights of the lake. These activities showcase Smith Mountain Lake’s calm, pristine water.

Late August and early September are the ideal times to visit Smith Mountain Lake. The water temperatures remain very comfortable in those months. In Smith Mountain Lake, you will never run out of fun things to do. You may be the adventurous type, or you may prefer sitting back and soaking in the scenery. Either way, there are activities and places for you at the lake.

What To Do Before Your Trip To Smith Mountain Lake

First things first: you must book your overnight accommodations. Ensure that the house or the hotel you would be staying in has the appropriate amenities for your needs. Take note of its location: is it on the waterfront? Also, take note of the number of bedrooms and the size of the property. I suggest hiring a real estate agent to assist you with this.

Then, take note of your equipment rentals. Boat rentals, jet ski rentals, and water toy rentals are all common in Smith Mountain Lake vacation trips. You may also bring your own if that would not be too much of a hassle. Arrange your rentals before your trip to ensure a smooth-sailing, stress-free getaway.

One optional step is to get your Virginia boating and fishing licenses. This is to make the most out of the amenities of the lake. Finally, the last step would be to check the Smith Mountain Lake website’s calendar. This is for you to plan your activities according to the events in the lake during your stay. You are now ready to go on vacation!

Water Adventures around Smith Mountain Lake

Smith Mountain Lake is famous for water activities such as swimming, jet skiing and, boating. If you were not able to arrange your rentals before your trip, fret not. Smith Mountain Lake has various facilities that offer watercraft rentals.

Bridgewater Marina offers boat rental to five locations in Smith Mountain Lake. Bob’s Up the Creek Outfitters has kayak rental services for your kayak needs. On the other hand, Parrot Cove Boat Rentals and Sales has rental services for pontoons, wakeboards, fishing boats, and kayaks. Bernard’s Boat Rentals offers surf boat and deck boat rental services. To contact them, visit their websites and inquire regarding your rental needs.

Now that you are all set, you are now ready to go on water adventures. The first item on the list is the Blackwater Junction Wake Park. This complex offers wakeboarding and wakeskating for riders of all skill levels. Here, you would not have to worry about being a beginner.

The picturesque Smith Mountain Lake State Park is the ultimate water enthusiast’s paradise. In this park, you may swim, rent a boat, and go fishing with your family and friends. Your company may also enjoy serene outdoor picnics near the waterfront, watch a local play at the amphitheater. You should try out camping and hiking in this park. The Smith Mountain Lake State Park is open from 8:15 am to dusk.

Smith Mountain Lake Community Park is another location you may want to visit. With 37 acres of majesty, this park is a family-oriented outdoor facility that offers engaging activities such as swimming and fishing. The park is complete with restrooms, a beautiful waterfront, hiking trails, a playground area, and a seasonal community beach. The Smith Mountain Lake Community Park is open year-round, from dusk to dawn.

Historic Places around Smith Mountain Lake

The state of Virginia has a very rich history, and this is showcased in the historic places around Smith Mountain Lake. One of which is the Booker T Washington National Monument, which commemorates the life of Booker T. Washington. Booker T. Washington is a famous writer, orator, educator, and presidential advisor. He was born into slavery and is one of the most equally influential and controversial African Americans of his time.

Thomas Jefferson’s Poplar Forest was Thomas Jefferson’s private retreat home. Thomas Jefferson was an American Founding Father. He was the principal author of the Declaration of Independence, which he wrote in 1776. Moreover, he was the third President of the United States of America.

In this home, he rested and indulged in his favorite pastimes such as thinking, reading, and studying. You are most welcome to spend your vacation in Thomas Jefferson’s most personal architectural masterpieces.

The National D-Day Memorial was built to honor the soldiers who died on June 6, 1944. On that day occurred the most pivotal battles of World War 2. The soldiers who died during that historical event fought in one of the most significant battles of the nation’s history.

The National D-Day Memorial, bordering the Blue Ridge Mountains, is over 50 acres in land area. The memorial overlooks Bedford, and was officially opened on the 6th of June, 2001. During the opening ceremony, 15,000 people were present, including then-President George W. Bush. Every year, about 60,000 people have visited the National D-Day Memorial. Pay a visit to the memorial during your vacation in honor of our brave soldiers.

The last historical place around Smith Mountain Lake I could recommend is the Appomattox Courthouse National Historic Park. This village is where Confederate General Robert E. Lee surrendered his army to Union General Ulysses S. Grant. The Appomattox Courthouse National Historic Park has a bookstore, a theater, a museum, and a dozen buildings.

Attractions around Smith Mountain Lake

The Virginia Dare Cruise is a 63 feet long, 20 feet wide, and 26.6 feet tall replica side-wheeler. It cruises almost every day, from April to December. Going aboard this ship is something you would not want to miss during your trip to Smith Mountain Lake.

If you are interested in dams and how power is generated from them, you may want to visit a dam reservoir. Smith Mountain Lake Dam & Visitors Center is the perfect place for you. The visitors center of this facility is open to the public, with a majestic view overlooking the dam.

If you love alpacas, or you are traveling with children who love these animals, visit Smith Mountain Lake Alpaca Farm. Smith Mountain Lake Farm is one of the only alpaca farms in the country that offers an educational tour. An interactive, 90-minute tour with a guide will tell you everything you need to know about the science and history of alpacas. The inner child in you will love this side trip, as you may feed, hold, and hug alpacas.

The Little Gallery on Smith Mountain Lake is a fine art gallery around Smith Mountain Lake. It is open seven days a week, and it displays the finest selection of art. May your interest be sculpture, original paintings, specialty gifts, art glass, or jewelry, everything can be found in this gallery. All the art exhibited is made by local and regional artists.

If you love movies and the whole cinema experience, Westlake Cinema is the place for you. Westlake Cinema is located in Westlake Town Center. It features concessions, stadium seating, a four-plex movie theater, and Real D 3D. Westlake Cinema has four theatre screens, two of which has 128 seats, and the other two with 174 seats. This cinema is an upscale movie theatre with a state-of-the-art sound system and world-class amenities.

Harbortown Mini Golf is the destination for mini-golf lovers. This course features an 18-hole miniature golf course. The course is challenging and unique, providing fun for adults and children alike. Harbortown is located right above the boat docks. Thus, the mini-golf experience here is one of a kind — with a breathtaking view of Smith Mountain Lake.

Restaurants around Smith Mountain Lake

You might have gotten hungry after touring Smith Mountain Lake. Fret not, because Smith Mountain Lake is home to world-class restaurants. Whatever food you might be craving, we have it here.

If you are in the mood for Italian food, you might want to check out Vinny’s Italian Grill. If you crave Mexican food, visit El Rio Mexican Grill. On the other hand, if you are in the mood for some Japanese cuisine, visit Edo Grill and Sushi.

If you are going for the fancy dining experience, I strongly recommend that checking out the waterfront dining restaurants. These places offer a picturesque view of Smith Mountain Lake while you are enjoying your meals. Some lakefront restaurants are The Landing Restaurant and Jake’s Place.

Wineries around Smith Mountain Lake

Smith Mountain Lake is known for its wine. The lake celebrates the Smith Mountain Lake Wine Festival during the last weekend of September each year. This festival regularly draws huge crowds. With that, Smith Mountain Lake is home to various wineries that you may want to visit.

The Hickory Hill Vineyards is Smith Mountain Lake’s oldest vineyard. Tour Hickory Hill Vineyards and learn how they bottle their wine. You may also want to taste local award-winning wines from this vineyard. The Ramulose Ridge Vineyards is another famous vineyard in Smith Mountain Lake. Aside from its wine, this vineyard showcases the majestic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Last but not the least, the White Rock Vineyard, Winery, and Brew Haus is a vineyard you should visit. It produces high-quality wines and craft beers. When you visit this vineyard, buy local cheese and snacks from their tasting rooms for the full experience. You may also bring a picnic basket to enjoy the vineyard’s scenery, which is pet-friendly on the outside patio.

Spend a Lifetime Vacation in Smith Mountain Lake

Now, you have read all about the amenities of Smith Mountain Lake. By any chance, were you enticed to settle and live in the lake permanently? Smith Mountain Lake’s yearly population average is at 22,000. If ever you decide to permanently live here, shops are abundant for your daily needs. Moreover, community events are also regularly held such as tournaments and fundraisers.

You might also want to choose a luxurious lakefront home. Imagine waking up to the sight of pristine, clear waters and watching the sunset from your front yard. Imagine being surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of nature every day for the rest of your life.That is a luxury that you would not want to miss out on. Lucky for you, you may choose a property to your liking at your convenience.

In choosing your future house, you must consider multiple factors as your guide. Does the property have enough bedrooms for your family? Are the bedrooms of the appropriate size? Looking for properties in Smith Mountain Lake does not have to be difficult if you hire a competent real estate agent. A real estate agent will arrange everything you need, and you would not have to worry about a single thing.

Thank you for dropping by! I am Jane Sullivan Horne, and I have been assisting clients in settling in at Smith Mountain Lake since 1986. For 35 years, I have specialized in luxury residential properties in the lake area. I truly love living at Smith Mountain Lake, and it would be my pleasure to assist you experience life here.

Not only do I know how to find the perfect home for you, but I also will help you find the perfect neighborhood. I will consider your budget, lifestyle, and needs. I am a Certified Residential Specialist and I am very competent and proficient in what I do.

I’m here to help make everything easier for you. I will help you find the perfect spot for your new life in Smith Mountain Lake. Contact me today at 540.493.1690. I am looking forward to hearing from you. See you at the lake!

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Smith Mountain Lake is famous for its clear waters and gorgeous 500-mile shoreline, but did you know that the region also plays host to several wineries, breweries, and distilleries?

Nestled in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains of south-central Virginia, the area’s natural beauty, mild climate, and fresh mountain spring water make it ideal for growing a wide range of grape cultivars and varieties as well as for brewing world-class beer.

The countryside and communities surrounding Smith Mountain Lake are dotted with fine vineyards and breweries. Locals, vacationers, and budding oenophiles looking to sample some of Virginia’s finest wines, brews, and liquors are spoiled for choice when it comes to spots to visit. Here are 15 of the best wineries, breweries, and distilleries that you can visit in and around the Smith Mountain Lake area.

1. Ramulose Ridge Vineyards
   3061 Hendricks Store Road, Moneta, VA

   Ramulose Ridge Vineyards, just to the south of Moneta VA, serves fine wines paired with breathtaking hillside views.

   The winery has a varied arsenal of offerings, ranging from white wines like their Chardonel (a dry, hybrid variety of Chardonnay and Seyval Blanc), Vidal Blanc and Vioginier, reds like spicy Syrah and the ubiquitous Cabernet Franc, semi-sweets like Muscat and Tendril (a peach-accented white), to flavored Sweet Wine Sippers. Cigar aficionados will also want to sample the winery’s recommended cigar pairings for their white and red wines, available on site.

   Ramulose Ridge’s outdoor patio makes for a fine venue to take in the view. There are also indoor and outdoor spaces for weddings, fundraisers, and other events. Interested parties can call Ramulose Ridge Vineyards at 540.314.2696 or visit their website for more information and tasting room reservations.

2. Hickory Hill Vineyards and Winery
   1722 Hickory Cove Lane, Moneta, VA

   Hickory Hill Vineyards is the oldest winery in the Smith Mountain Lake area. It’s been managed by three generations of the Furrow family ever since it opened in 2001.

   Hickory Hill Vineyards offers traditional wines and blends inspired by the natural beauty of Smith Mountain Lake’s verdant countryside. The winery’s Cabernet Sauvignon is a consistent prize-winner: a dry, French oak-aged red wine with black fruit notes, true to the old-world style of winemaking.

   Contrasting with the traditional wines are more playful blends, like the Redbud, a semi-sweet dark rosé perfect for a summer afternoon, or the Sweet Red Sail, a sweet blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc, best paired with blue cheese, figs, or chocolates.

   Visitors can call 540.296.1393 or contact the winery through their website to book the picnic area as well as arrange for curbside pickup of wines. In the summertime, be sure to drop by for Hickory Hill’s Sunset Saturdays, a concert series with live performances, good food, good wine, and good company!

3. Peaks of Otter Winery
   1218 Elmos Road, Bedford, VA

   An hour’s drive from Westlake Corner, Peaks of Otter Winery is a family-operated winery nestled in the same peaks that gave it its name.

   Unlike grape vineyards, Peaks of Otter Winery is a fruit winery, offering 25 different varieties of wine primarily made from fruits grown in the farm’s orchard. Visitors can sample a medley of different wines made from blueberries, blackberries, and apples, to more exotic mixes such as the Chili Dawg, an apple and chili wine with a spicy bite.

   In addition to their many fruit wine varieties, visitors to the Peaks of Otter Winery can sample fresh, seasonal fruits as well as jellies, jams and butters. Interested parties looking to book a tasting session can inquire through Peaks of Otter Winery’s website or call 540.586.3707.

4. Brooks Mill Winery
   6221 Brooks Mill Road, Wirtz, VA

   Located just a few minutes away from Westlake Corner in Franklin County, Brooks Mill Winery is a small fruit farm and winery that makes award-winning fruit wines for all tastes and occasions.

   Visitors can sample their sweet blackberry or blueberry wines, perfect for desserts, flavorful plum or peach wines ideal for any time of the day, or their sangria. For wine lovers who are looking for more traditional flavor patterns, try the dry pear wine (similar to a dry white) and the dry blackberry wine, your dry red alternative.

   Drop by for their so-called wine tasting flights, where you can sample six wines for $5 in the tasting room or outdoors, picnic style. If you’re interested, call 540.721.5215, or contact Brooks Mill Winery through their website for more information.

5. LeoGrande Vineyards and Winery
   1343 Wingfield Drive, Goode, VA

   Located half an hour’s drive from Smith Mountain Lake and just outside Bedford, LeoGrande Vineyard and Winery is one of six stops on the Bedford Wine Trail. Small and unassuming, LeoGrande Winery is ideal for oenophiles looking for a smaller, more intimate tasting experience.

   LeoGrande specializes in Italian grape varietals but offers a rounded selection of wines so that there’s something for everyone. The winery produces reds such as the Nebbiolo, Sangiovese, Syrah and Barbera, as well as a number of whites such as Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc.

   Visitors can drop by and sample LeoGrande’s wines in the tasting room or enjoy the scenic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains landscape from the winery’s outdoor verandah. If you’re interested in sampling LeoGrande’s Italian-style wines, call ahead at 540.586.4066 in order to schedule an afternoon visit.




6. Valhalla Vineyards
   6500 Mt. Chestnut Road #8108, Roanoke, VA

   About an hour’s drive west from Smith Mountain Lake in nearby Roanoke sits Valhalla Vineyards, a scenic winery with a 2000-feet mountain top view overlooking the Roanoke Valley. Valhalla is the first vineyard outside of California to grow Alicante Bouschete, as well as one of the first vineyards to grow Syrah grapes in the state of Virginia.

   Valhalla’s award-winning vintages, which are often featured in magazines like Wine Spectator and Decanter Magazine, are crafted in the traditional French minimalist fashion. The wines are aged underground in the vineyard’s barrel cave, an underground facility beneath the vineyard itself. Their Syrah, Merlot, and Cabernet Sauvignon are popular favorites.

   Valhalla holds regular tastings at their Cellar Door event space. They also offer winery and barrel cave tours. To learn more, call 540.725.9463 or email valhallava(at)aol(dotted)com.

7. Altillo Vineyards & Winery
   620 Level Run Road, Hurt, VA

   A small, family-run vineyard and winery about half an hour’s drive east of Smith Mountain Lake, Altillo Vineyards & Winery specializes in small batch production of quality wines, like their award-winning rich dry Shiraz (2014 Atlantic Seaboard Wine Competition Gold) and their classic old-world style Chardonnay (2013 Governor’s Cup Silver).

   Altillo might not be the largest vineyard and winery in the Smith Mountain Lake area, but its focus on small batch, artisanal production also means they’re open to custom crush, custom winemaking, and winery startup consulting. Get in touch with them if you’re interested in starting your own vineyard or winery in the region.

   Visitors to Altillo Vineyards and Winery have the option to sample their wines in the comfort of the winery’s tasting room, by the fireside during colder months, outside on the spacious deck, or picnic-style on the winery’s grounds. The tasting fee is $10, credited towards purchase of your first bottle.

8. The Homeplace Vineyard
   568 Rigney Circle, Chatham, VA

   A half hour’s drive southeast of Smith Mountain Lake will take you to The Homeplace Vineyard, located just outside Chatham in Pittsylvania County. It’s a family-owned and operated farm and winery with quality vintages that belie the winery’s size.

   The Homeplace Vineyard has a selection of three different dry red wines: their Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc, and their award-winning Chambourcin, a spicy wine that pairs well with barbecues and Italian cuisine.

   The winery’s dry white wines include a creamy Viognier, as well as a fruity Vidal Blanc. The Homeplace Vineyard also offers a selection of blended wines, as well as a standout sweet strawberry wine called the Cabin Sunset (another award winner).

   Visitors interested in sampling Homeplace Vineyard’s wines should call 434.432.9463 or email thehomeplacevineyard(at)yahoo(dotted)com to arrange a reservation.

9. Twin Creeks Brewing Company
   111 South Pollard Street, Vinton, VA

   On the way to Downtown Roanoke from Smith Mountain Lake, don’t forget to slake your thirst in Twin Creeks Brewing Company. It’s Roanoke County’s first craft micro-brewery, located in downtown Vinton.

   Twin Creeks features a good range of brews and flavors, from classic standbys like the hoppy India pale ale (including a double-strength “All Hands on Deck” IPA at 10% ABV); the sweet Winter Night Milk Stout; an entire collection of lagers, brown ales, and stouts; and the occasional small batch of experimental brews like their Passion Fruit Gose-n-Over The Falls.

   Visitors can sample Twin Creeks Brewery’s beers in the taproom alongside cuisine from a variety of nearby food trucks, as well as enjoy live music from local acts. If you’re taking a trip along the lakeside at Explore Park, you can also try out Twin Creeks’ brews at the Twin Creeks Brewpub, located at the historic Brugh Tavern. It has a full-service restaurant known for their gourmet burgers, outdoor firepits, a wine and cider bar, and outdoor music events.

10. Franklin County Distilleries
    25156 Virgil H. Goode Hwy, Boones Mill, VA

    Nearby Boones Mill has earned the moniker of The Moonshine Capital of the World. It’s all thanks to the bootleggers that took advantage of the area’s clear mountain spring waters, hidden forest fastnesses, and the rail line running through town to move incredible amounts of liquor during Prohibition.

    Franklin County Distilleries, located in Boones Mill, takes pride in Virginia’s moonshine tradition. It offers a series of distilled spirits inspired by the infamous bootleggers of the past. Visitors to FCD’s tasting room can sample some of the finest moonshine around, with flagship liquors like White Label Corn Whiskey, the smooth Rocky Mountain Rye, golden Roanoke Rum, apple brandy, grape brandy, 141 Black Label Rye, and the two-year aged FCD Maker’s Oak Reserve.

    The newest addition to the tasting room is the Shot Bar, where adventurous visitors can mix different infused flavors with FCD’s corn whiskey or try a variety of liquors to decide which one is right for them. FCD’s bar and grill is open daily. You can call them at 540.334.1610 or email at info(at)fcdmoonshine(dotted)com.




11. Hammer & Forge Brewing Company
    70 Main Street, Boones Mill, VA

    Another Boones Mill brewery to visit is Hammer & Forge Brewing Company. They focus on small-batch craft brews, creating artisanal experiences with their rotating roster of colorfully named beers on tap.

    Blue Lakes is an easy-drinking blond ale inspired by the local landscape, while Dirty Myrtle is a punchy American Amber Ale with a strong backbone with wheat and chocolate notes. The Elder Mountain brew is an IPA that combines subtle malt flavors with an upfront hoppy flavor, while Romanov’s Return is a full-bodied Russian Imperial Stout with plenty of malt character.

    In addition to their fine brews, Hammer & Forge regularly hosts community events, such as trivia nights and paint jams, so be on the lookout for happenings that might just be up your alley!

12. Big Lick Brewing Company
    409 Salem Avenue SW, Roanoke, VA

    Located in the heart of Downtown Roanoke, Big Lick Brewing Company is billed as Roanoke’s first nanobrewery. They serve a range of small-batch creations as well as food from nearby restaurants and eateries.

    Their Smith Mountain Lager takes its name from our lovely lake, and is a light, easy drinking American lager, while those looking for heartier brews might want to check out their Virginia Breakfast Stout, which has notes of Belgian chocolate, cacao nibs, Sumatran coffee, and a 7.5% ABV.

    Visitors can sample Big Lick’s brews at their indoor taproom or choose to dine alfresco in their spacious outdoor dining and seating area. You can drink and dine on site or take your beer to-go with growler and crowler refills or in four-packs of 16-ounce cans.

    If you’re taking a day trip around town, why not drop by the nearby Virginia Museum of Transportation as well? It’s located just behind the brewery.

13. Atheling Meadworks
    451 McClanahan Street SW, Roanoke, VA

    For something different from your average brew, check out Atheling Meadworks, an award-winning craft meadery housed in the former Dr. Pepper bottling plant in Roanoke.

    Named after the Old English word “atheling,” which means a lord or crown prince, Atheling Meadworks was inspired by its founder, Dr. Stephen Ausband’s love for the old English epic Beowulf. Translating that love into a fascination with brewing mead, Atheling Meadworks has since managed to create award-winning meads.

    Shield Maiden, crafted with raspberry and blackberry honey aged in oak comes with a hint of sweetness and a complex mix of berry and floral flavors with an ABV of 18%. Meanwhile, Lyre’s Song, made from raspberry honey, is a traditional mead with a complex floral flavor with citrus and balsam undertones and an ABV of 13%. Both meads took silver medals in the 2020 National Honey Board’s Mead Crafter’s Competition.

    Interested parties can contact Atheling Meadworks at 540.352.7175 or through their website.

14. A Few Old Goats Brewing
    515 8th Street SW #228, Roanoke, VA

    A two-barrel nano-brewery in the west end of Downtown Roanoke, A Few Old Goats Brewing is a neat stop for anyone who’s looking to try out something new.

    A Few Old Goats regularly rotates their beers on tap to match their latest craft brew creations. AFOG uses the staple India pale ale in a number of varieties like the Pillow Talk, a New England-style IPA, and the Dirty Pillow Talk, a stronger Imperial IPA. Other varieties include the Mock Bock, the Pour Decisions (a strong bitter beer), and the Clarence Gotz Wingz, a winter ale.

    A Few Old Goats has a dog-friendly taproom and an outdoor area. Patrons can dine in or buy beers by the can or in 32-ounce growlers to take home. You can contact A Few Old Goats Brewing by phone at 540.339.9562, through email at afog(at)gmail(dotted)com, or through their website.

15. Twin Creeks Distillery
    510 Franklin Street Suite 508, Rocky Mount, VA

    Located about a 20-minute drive west of Union Hall, Twin Creeks Distillery in Rocky Mount gives you Franklin County history distilled in a bottle.

    The 1st Sugar Moonshine is a stout and smooth clear liquor that pairs well with anything while hitting home at 90-proof at 45% ABV. Twin Creeks also offers two white whiskies: the Sweet Mash Rye, a pure grain unaged whiskey with rye, corn, yeast and a bit of malt, resulting in a 90-proof sipping liquor, and the Copper Corn, a 100-proof pure corn, unaged whiskey made the traditional way in a copper still. In addition to the moonshine classics, Twin Creeks Distillery also features a series of fruit brandies made from local produce.

    Twin Creeks Distillery has a tasting room that can be booked for private events. They also offer group tours. Interested parties can call 540.483.1266 or email info(at)twincreeksdistillery(dotted)com.

Fine wines and spirits are part of the luxury lifestyle in and around Smith Mountain Lake. Call me, Jane Horne, at 540.493.1690 or fill out this contact form to learn more about the community and make this wonderful place your home.

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