Lake Anna home

What Makes Lake Anna a Great Second Home?

Local Realtors Share Why You Should Consider Purchasing a Second Home at Lake Anna

By Arielle Patterson

With year-round activities, picturesque views and proximity to several major cities, Lake Anna has become a popular location for a second home. Owning a second home may seem daunting to some. There are options for buyers to turn their second home into an investment property by renting it out most of the time or keeping it as their private getaway.

I spoke with local realtors about why you should consider purchasing a second home at Lake Anna.


Kristie Cooke, Lake Anna Realty

Here at Lake Anna, there is truly “something for everyone.”  I think that’s what I appreciate most about our area.  Lake Anna offers all that you’re likely expect from a visit to the lake—fishing, boating, swimming, water sports, beautiful sunsets, etc., yet so much more. Gather your friends, your family, your co-workers, your partner or finally take some time out alone to explore and enjoy the unexpected that the Lake Anna area offers. Local food, horseback riding, hiking, nearby Charlottesville or Richmond and all that either has to offer, a short drive away to the historically rich Fredericksburg, a fishing pond for children and for those with disabilities, the breweries, the wineries and even gold mining!

I believe people are drawn to Lake Anna for the sense of community, that feeling like you are not just welcome but that you belong. All of a sudden, regardless of whether you are here full time, weekends or only seasonally, you are a part of the Lake Anna community. 

When you begin your search for a home, you’ll find the opportunities and options are abundant as well. There, again, is “something for everyone.” Whether you are looking for a blank canvas to build your own home or choosing from the various sizes and shapes of homes already built, come on home to Lake Anna.

Kathy Gardner, Dockside Realty

Why buy a second home at Lake Anna?  Maybe to get away from traffic—we don’t have any.  Maybe you crave being on the water and want an alternative to going to the beach.  Maybe to give your kids some good clean fun. Maybe to buy your retirement home early and let vacation rental income help offset costs.

There might never be a better time to buy a second home at Lake Anna. Interest rates are at an all-time low and most mortgage lenders are charging the same low rate for second homes as they are for primary residences. In most cases, it’s a buyer’s market here, but the strong increase in sales over the past several years and the current supply and demand indicates that it may switch to a seller’s market soon.

Currently, there are still lake homes to fit every budget—from small fishing cabins to luxurious homes on spectacular waterfront lots, fixer uppers to custom builds and everything in between. 

It wasn’t that long ago that we didn’t have any restaurants, breweries or even a grocery store here at Lake Anna. That has changed. There is no shortage of things to do, rain or shine, and now we have the promise of a golf course to enhance our lake lifestyle even more.

The word is out about Lake Anna! Don’t miss out on realizing your dream. Do yourself a favor and work with a qualified local realtor.

Angel Hough, Long & Foster

Having been born and raised in the Lake Anna area, I can think of several reasons why owning property at Lake Anna is a good investment. First is due to the location. We are centrally located just a short distance from several major cities like Charlottesville, Richmond, Northern Virginia, Washington D.C. and Fredericksburg.

The second reason is due to the income possibilities. Property management in this area has become extremely popular over the past decade. People interested in looking for a nice place to host a wedding or have a reunion are drawn to Lake Anna because of its natural beauty. Once they decide to visit, they’ll need to find a place to stay for the weekend or all week. As you can tell, if you are the owner of a rental property, you are looking to make some good money during peak season.

The final reason a second home in Lake Anna is a good investment is that the area is just beautiful! I can’t think of a better place that I would like to spend my time looking over the lake, a backdrop of greenery against a blue sky with a glimpse of the mountains in the background. Lake Anna gives you a place to escape the city, get away from the noise and just relax and enjoy the scenery. With many local restaurants, you won’t need to worry about cooking or having to travel far for a good meal. With many activities and events in the area, there is always something to do.

Libby Sandridge, Dockside Realty

Many people think that owning a second home is a luxury that most can only dream about. However, at Lake Anna, we have properties that can fit most any budget. Second homes can provide you with added income and personal wealth. The rental market at Lake Anna is stable, so why not let your investment pay you back.

You can set aside the dates for personal use of your home and rent out the rest. Even if you only rent it out part time, it can help pay down the mortgage, if not all of it. You can deduct your mortgage interest, property taxes and more, so please check with a CPA.

Second homes also provide the ability to vacation on demand. What’s not to love about grabbing a bag, the kids and dog, and heading out on a moment’s notice to destress from the hectic urban hustle and bustle.

Begin your search with a knowledgeable Lake Anna agent.


As you can see, there are many reasons why you should purchase a home at Lake Anna. The area is not only picturesque but also affordable. With the help of a friendly and professional Lake Anna realtor, you’re sure to find your dream home. There are a number of sought-after areas to purchase a home or build one in the area, and Lake Anna’s trusted real estate experts can help you find a locale that’s best for you, your family and your budget.

Imagine starting your mornings watching the sunrise over the lake. Spend your days on water or Lake Anna’s shores, in town or exploring one of the neighboring areas. Then, wind down your day with a boat ride beneath the watercolor sunset.

While owning a second home may seem like a lot of work, it can also be one of the most worthwhile purchases you make, the investment of a lifetime and the chance for an unforgettable getaway at Lake Anna.