Lewis Smith Lake, or Smith Lake, spans over 20,000 acres across three counties in north-central Alabama, including the gorgeous waterfront towns of Bremen and Arley. The lake is the perfect spot for boating, swimming, and watersports, and its calm waters provide some of Alabama’s best fishing.
Smith Lake is a three-finger reservoir created in the 1960s when Alabama Power constructed the Lewis Smith Dam to generate hydroelectricity for the surrounding area. The expansive lake sits at the Sipsey Fork of the Black Warrior River and has a maximum depth of 500 feet. Residents who live on the 500 miles of shoreline along Smith Lake love the gorgeous water views, easy access to the lake, and relaxed lifestyle that come with lakefront living. The expansive estates around the reservoir are stunning, and most have private, two-story floating docks. Waterfront living along Smith Lake is a luxurious lifestyle, one that is well within your reach in communities like
Bremen and Arley.
The waterfront lifestyle
Owning a waterfront property in Arley or Bremen is the height of lakefront luxury. The homes along Smith Lake are some of the most extravagant in the area. And while the interiors are lavish and stunning, the exterior is the real draw for those seeking waterfront living in the heart of Alabama.
Fishing
Due to the depth of the reservoir, Smith Lake boasts some of the best fishing in the state. The lake has a deep center point and lots of rocky shorelines for ideal fishing spots. Smith Lake is home to a wide variety of fish, including large bass, catfish, sunfish, and an array of other species native to Alabama. The lake is perfect for fishing year-round and hosts several bass tournaments each year.
Boating
Homes along Smith Lake’s shoreline boast floating docks, with none secured to the land or bottom of the lake. Some homes also feature private boat ramps, while some planned lakefront communities have expansive ramps for members. Several public boat ramps are also scattered around the lake, making Smith Lake a boating paradise. Currently, there are no limitations on the speed, size, or type of watercraft allowed on the lake, but all powered watercraft must be registered according to state and local requirements.
Relaxing
The lake is a great spot for simply enjoying the repose of being near the water. Homes along Smith Lake have multiple levels of decks and balconies for great views across the water, and many have backyard features like an outdoor kitchen or a fire pit that are perfect for a summer evening by the water. Opulent lakefront homes along the shoreline also feature hot tubes and infinity pools for ultimate luxury.
Pros and cons of lakefront living
Owning a lakefront home has a unique set of advantages largely due to its proximity to water. However, while a house on the lake has obvious pros, like stunning views and easy access to the water, some drawbacks come with having a home right on the shore.
Pros
Proximity to watersports and fishing spots
With the lake in your backyard, you are as close as you can be for easy access to one of the best places in the state for boating, watersports, and fishing. Most Smith Lake homes have a dock where you can launch jet skis, paddleboards, or boats. A home right on the lake means you can head out onto the lake whenever the idea strikes.
Solid investment decision
Lakefront homes can be scarce, especially along Smith Lake, where the property lines are generous, and waterfront homes do not hit the market often. Purchasing a house on the lake is a solid investment strategy. Lakefront homes have a great appreciation rate for property investment portfolios. If you do not plan to live in your Smith Lake home full-time, you can work with a property management company to rent your home out for extra profits.
A permanent vacation spot
Whether you purchase your Smith Lake home as a full-time residence or a summer home, living in a lakefront house is a vacation destination. With easy access to the water for fishing and watersports, you can take part in your favorite activities at leisure. And, of course, enjoying the magnificent views across the lake from your deck is a treasure.
Cons
Unexpected expenses
Like any waterfront property, a home on Smith Lake comes with more element-related wear and tear expenses than a regular house. With a large body of water nearby, storms tend to be stronger and can damage lakefront homes. Daily weather near the lake, like humidity, wind, and water, can wear down the exterior of your home faster than a house inland. Exterior features like ramps and docks also require regular inspection and upkeep to maintain safety standards.
Higher insurance costs
Waterfront homes tend to have unique costs when it comes to home insurance. Check with your agent and insurance professional to determine if your property requires special flood insurance. Some local ordinances require special coverage due to the higher liability of waterfront living.
Lakefront neighborhoods in Arley and Bremen
There are several planned communities with lakefront properties in the communities of Arley and Bremen. Some of these waterfront neighborhoods come with amenities like boat ramps and community aquatic centers.
Arley
Lake Pointe
The well-appointed homes in this community offer expansive views and deep water year-round. Most lots have a gentle slope out to the waterfront. The community has several athletic fields for resident use and is close to shopping and dining spots in town.
Lakewoods on Rock Creek
This community is unique for its large undeveloped nature preserve, giving Lakewoods on Rock Creek a truly tranquil feel. Homes in this neighborhood range from cottages to expansive estates.
South Pointe
South Pointe is located along the Main Channel and has an active homeowners association that maintains the covenants and luxury feel of the neighborhood.
Bremen
Moss Rock Pointe
Homes in this community are highly coveted as they rarely come become available for sale. The property lines are expansive, making the estates here private and tranquil.
Rocky Springs
This neighborhood has custom-built lakefront homes with deep water access and stunning views. Rocky Springs also boasts a runway in the community for small planes.
Windemere
Windemere is located on a peninsula with a mix of lakefront estates and condominiums, each with a boat slip. The community has several amenities for residents, including a pool, cabana, and clubhouse.
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