Is it a buyer’s market or a seller’s market? That question is always up for debate. Whether you’re actively buying or selling—or just want something interesting to say at a cocktail party—real estate is a topic that draws just as much conversation as the weather.

But in a lake market like ours, the fluctuations are even more specific. These shifts offer insight into what really drives lake property values—what’s moving quickly at a premium, and what’s sitting on the market (possibly needing a price adjustment to overcome factors out of the seller’s control).

What’s Hot?!

• Common Areas with Nice Amenities &
• Deeded/Assigned Boat Slips
• Short-Term Rentability
• Non-HOA (POA) Properties

Windwood Coves is one of Lake Anna’s most desirable neighborhoods. Established in the 1980s, this gated community is centrally located near shopping and the Route 208 bridge. With 262 properties, there’s practically a waiting list to get in. Buyers are drawn to its premium public-side location, assigned boat slips for non-waterfront homes, large private beach, tennis courts, basketball court, boat ramps, and multiple pavilions for events. When priced appropriately, homes here often sell in 0–5 days.

Short-term rentability is another big draw for buyers looking to offset costs with rental income—especially if the property is already a short-term rental with a proven track record. Conversely, communities with strict short-term rental rules may attract fewer buyers, limiting your pool.

Non-HOA/POA properties tend to be more flexible and appealing to buyers who want to customize their space—whether that’s an oversized garage, multiple sheds, or creative builds. Some POAs restrict architectural styles or limit what owners can do with their property, which can turn off potential buyers.

What’s Not?!

• Hottest Water Temps on the Private Side
• (Not So Hot Right Now)
• Properties in Algae Bloom-Prone Areas
• Seasonal Lake Views That Don’t Show Off

Aspen Hill, located near the power plant, currently boasts the warmest water on Lake Anna—hovering around 103°F. Many homes here have pools as an alternate way to cool down. That said, come late fall, this side of the lake shines. Water temps stay warm enough to enjoy swimming well into November. Fall is also when buyers tend to get more serious—after sellers have enjoyed one last season, and before winter sets in.

Algae bloom concerns—even unfounded ones—can cool buyer interest fast. While we haven’t seen harmful bloom advisories yet this year, misinformation online is widespread. The best way to stay informed is through the Dominion Energy website and updates from the Lake Anna Civic Association, both of which are actively involved in mitigation efforts.

Seasonal lake views can also work against you if they’re not obvious in spring or summer. If your property has a better view in winter (when the leaves are off), consider timing your listing accordingly—or cleaning up trees to enhance visibility. Even if you love your privacy, remember: buyers want to see the lake.

In a market as dynamic as Lake Anna’s, understanding what’s driving buyer interest—and what’s holding it back—can make all the difference whether you’re buying, selling, or just observing. From the popularity of amenity-rich communities with deeded boat slips, to the flexibility and earning potential of non-HOA properties, it’s clear that certain features are consistently drawing strong interest. On the flip side, factors like extreme water temperatures, algae bloom concerns, and obscured seasonal views can cause even great properties to lag on the market. Ultimately, staying informed about what’s trending (and what’s not) can help you make strategic decisions and spot hidden opportunities in this ever-changing lakefront landscape.

Tiffany Hazelwood

Tiffany Hazelwood has a degree in Journalism from the University of Richmond is a full-time Real Estate Broker with Lake Homes Realty, a lake-focused real estate firm, where she serves as the Anchor Agent for the Lake Anna market. She has been a licensed realtor since 2008 and has been specializing in real estate here at the lake since 2016. She has enjoyed writing the real estate section for the Lake Anna Breeze™ since 2019. In her spare time, Tiffany enjoys jet-skiing and boating on the lake, traveling with her husband, Tom, and time with their dogs.