Floating deep-water dock
Jackson Lake Waterfront Retreat With Deep-Water Dock and Stunning Views
A rare opportunity is available in Jackson, Georgia, for buyers looking for a waterfront property with exceptional lake views, direct access to the water, and plenty of potential to create a personalized retreat. Priced at $167,500, this three-bedroom, two-bathroom single-family residence sits directly on Jackson Lake and offers approximately 97 to 100 feet of shoreline, a floating deep-water dock, a screened porch, multiple outdoor living areas, and wide-open views across the lake.
The home was built in 2007 and is described as a bungalow or cottage-style residence. While the property needs work and is being sold as-is, its waterfront setting creates a distinctive opportunity for someone willing to bring a contractor, evaluate the existing structure, and develop a renovation plan.
One of the most notable features is the depth of the water at the dock, reported at approximately 15 feet. For boating and fishing enthusiasts, deep-water access can be an especially desirable feature. The floating dock provides a convenient place to enjoy the lake, launch watercraft, fish, or simply sit near the water and take in the scenery.
The property is located on leased land through the Strickland Lease arrangement. The listing states that the lease costs approximately $4,900 annually, along with a $5,000 transfer fee, while 15-year lease options are also available. Buyers should carefully review the lease terms, transfer requirements, renewal provisions, and any restrictions before proceeding.
With a $167,500 asking price and a $159,400 Zillow Zestimate, this property offers an interesting combination of waterfront access, recreational features, and renovation potential. It is not presented as a turnkey home, however, and the listing specifies cash or hard-money financing only.
A Unique Jackson Lake Setting
Waterfront real estate often commands attention because it combines residential space with access to an outdoor lifestyle. This property takes that concept further by placing the home directly beside Jackson Lake, with expansive water views and approximately 100 feet of shoreline.
The view is one of the central attractions. Large picture windows in the main living and dining area are designed to take advantage of the waterfront setting, allowing natural light to enter the home while providing broad views across the lake.
For a future owner, the scenery could become part of everyday life rather than something experienced only during occasional vacations.
Morning coffee on the screened porch, an afternoon beside the dock, an evening meal on the deck, or a quiet sunset overlooking the water could all become part of the property’s appeal.
The combination of lakefront land, a residential structure, and private outdoor spaces creates the foundation for a personalized recreational retreat.
Approximately 100 Feet of Waterfront
The listing describes approximately 100 feet of shoreline, while the property facts report 97 feet of waterfront footage.
This difference is relatively small but should still be verified through the applicable survey, lease documents, and property records.
Waterfront frontage can have a significant impact on how a property is used. The shape of the shoreline, water depth, dock placement, shoreline regulations, and access rights can all affect boating, fishing, swimming, landscaping, and future improvements.
In this case, the listing specifically highlights the depth of approximately 15 feet at the dock, making the waterfront particularly relevant to boating and recreational use.
Prospective buyers should confirm current water conditions, dock rights, maintenance responsibilities, and any lake authority requirements before purchase.
Deep-Water Floating Dock
One of the property’s strongest recreational features is the floating deep-water dock.
A dock can transform a lakefront property from simply having a view into a true waterfront recreation destination.
The floating design can potentially accommodate changing water levels while providing an accessible platform along the shoreline. The listing emphasizes the approximately 15-foot water depth at the dock, which could be appealing to boat owners and anglers.
However, dock ownership and use should be investigated carefully. Buyers should verify whether the dock is included in the sale, whether it is permitted, who is responsible for maintenance, and whether the lease or lake authority imposes restrictions.
It is also important to understand whether there are regulations concerning boats, lifts, shoreline modifications, fishing, or other water-related activities.
Large Picture Windows Bring the Lake Indoors
The main living and dining area features large picture windows that are positioned to capture the lake views.
For a waterfront home, this type of design can be particularly valuable because it connects the interior living environment with the surrounding landscape.
Natural light can make interior spaces feel more open, while the view can become a visual focal point throughout the day.
The property combines the dining and living areas, creating an open arrangement that may work well for casual lake living and entertaining.
A future renovation could potentially emphasize this relationship between indoor and outdoor spaces by updating finishes, improving furnishings, or creating a more cohesive connection between the main living area and the lakeside deck.
Three Bedrooms on One Level
The home offers three bedrooms and two full bathrooms, with all three bedrooms and both bathrooms located on the main level.
A single-level floor plan can be convenient for a wide range of buyers because it reduces the need to navigate stairs during everyday activities.
The primary bedroom is especially connected to the lakefront setting. According to the listing, the primary suite includes a private bathroom and walk-in closet and opens through double doors onto a lakeside deck.
That arrangement gives the primary suite direct access to one of the property’s most attractive outdoor features.
For a weekend retreat, a primary residence, or another approved use, the main-level bedroom layout offers practical flexibility.
Primary Suite With Lakeside Access
The primary suite includes several features that can make it a private retreat within the home.
The private bathroom provides convenience, while the walk-in closet adds storage capacity.
Double doors connect the primary suite to a lakeside deck, creating a direct relationship between the bedroom and the outdoor environment.
Imagine beginning the day by stepping directly outside and looking across the water. That kind of setting is difficult to replicate in a typical inland property.
The deck could also provide a quiet space for reading, relaxing, or enjoying the surrounding landscape without leaving the house.
Screened Porch for Outdoor Living
The property includes a screened porch, another feature that can extend the living area beyond the home’s interior.
Screened porches are especially useful in warm-weather climates because they provide outdoor space while offering protection from insects and a degree of shelter from the elements.
At a lake property, a screened porch can become a natural gathering space.
It could potentially serve as a morning coffee area, dining space, reading room, or evening relaxation zone.
The screened porch also complements the other outdoor areas, including the additional side deck and lakeside deck, giving the property several distinct places to enjoy the waterfront.
Additional Side Deck
In addition to the lakeside deck, the home features an additional side deck.
Multiple outdoor spaces allow residents to choose between different views and levels of privacy throughout the day.
One deck might be used for entertaining while another serves as a quieter personal space.
For a property intended as a vacation retreat, having several outdoor gathering areas can increase its practical appeal.
Any buyer considering renovations should inspect the decking, supports, railings, fasteners, and connections to the home to determine whether repairs or replacement are needed.
Daylight Space Beneath the Home
The property includes daylight space beneath part of the house.
The listing suggests that this area can provide storage for tools, lake equipment, and other belongings.
For a waterfront property, storage can be particularly useful because outdoor recreation often involves equipment such as fishing gear, boating accessories, lawn tools, outdoor furniture, and maintenance supplies.
The available space should nevertheless be inspected for moisture, drainage, ventilation, structural conditions, and accessibility.
Because the property is described as having a crawl space, partial and unfinished basement characteristics, buyers should confirm exactly how the lower-level space is configured and what portions can legally be used for storage or other purposes.
Detached Three-Sided Carport
A detached three-sided carport provides covered parking and additional sheltered space.
Although the property facts list one total parking space, the three-sided design may offer flexibility for protecting a vehicle or storing outdoor equipment.
The carport could potentially be used for lake gear, tools, lawn equipment, or recreational accessories in addition to vehicle parking, subject to local requirements and the property’s lease terms.
As with the home itself, the structure should be inspected for roof condition, posts, framing, drainage, and overall stability.
A 2007 Bungalow-Style Home
The residence was built in 2007 and is described as a bungalow or cottage-style home.
Compared with many older lake cottages, a 2007 construction date can provide a relatively modern starting point. Nevertheless, the listing specifically identifies the property as a fixer, meaning buyers should not assume that age alone eliminates the need for significant repairs.
The exterior is listed as vinyl siding with a composition roof, while the foundation is described as pillar, post, pier construction.
These components should be examined by qualified professionals to determine their current condition.
The roof, siding, foundation supports, windows, doors, decks, plumbing, electrical systems, and interior finishes should all be evaluated before a renovation budget is established.
Double-Pane Windows
The property facts report double-pane windows.
Energy-efficient windows can help reduce heat transfer compared with older single-pane designs, although actual performance depends on window condition, framing, seals, insulation, and the home’s heating and cooling systems.
The listing does not identify central heating or cooling systems in the facts, so buyers should investigate the current mechanical setup carefully.
This is particularly important for a waterfront home that may be used during both hot Georgia summers and cooler months.
Heating and Cooling Should Be Investigated
The Zillow facts list no heating and no cooling.
That does not necessarily mean the property has no equipment at all; it means that no heating or cooling system is reported in the available facts.
Because the property is sold as-is and described as a fixer, this is an area that deserves careful inspection.
Buyers should determine whether HVAC equipment exists, whether it is operational, its age, and what would be required to provide reliable climate control.
If a complete HVAC installation is needed, that cost should be included in the renovation budget.
Septic and Public Water
The property is listed with a septic tank and public water.
This combination is common in some lakefront and rural residential settings.
The septic system should be inspected or evaluated before purchase, particularly because wastewater systems can represent significant replacement costs.
Buyers should determine the age, capacity, location, condition, and service history of the septic system.
They should also confirm whether the existing system is appropriately sized for the house and whether any proposed additions or renovations would require a new permit or expanded system.
Public water availability is another positive infrastructure feature, but the buyer should verify current service, connection status, meter information, and ongoing charges.
Electricity Is Available
The listing indicates that electricity is on the property.
Reliable electrical service will be important for any future renovation or lakefront use.
Because the property is a fixer, an electrician should inspect the electrical panel, wiring, outlets, exterior connections, grounding, and capacity.
If the buyer plans to add appliances, HVAC equipment, outdoor lighting, boat equipment, or other electrical loads, the existing service should be evaluated for sufficient capacity.
The Property Is Sold As-Is
One of the most important financial considerations is that the property is being sold as-is.
An as-is sale means buyers should approach the transaction with a strong emphasis on inspections and independent verification.
The listing encourages buyers to bring a contractor and their vision, which reinforces the idea that this property is intended for someone prepared to evaluate improvements.
Before purchasing, buyers should establish a realistic renovation budget rather than focusing only on the $167,500 purchase price.
The total project cost could include the acquisition price, closing costs, inspections, repairs, labor, materials, permits, professional fees, dock expenses, lease-related fees, insurance, utilities, and ongoing property costs.
Cash or Hard-Money Financing Only
The listing specifies cash or hard-money financing only.
This is a significant difference from a conventional residential transaction.
Buyers who plan to use financing should understand the requirements of hard-money lenders, including interest rates, fees, loan duration, collateral requirements, down payment expectations, and repayment structure.
Hard-money loans can be useful for certain renovation projects, but they may carry substantially different costs and risks than traditional mortgages.
A buyer should compare financing terms carefully and ensure that the projected renovation timeline is compatible with the loan terms.
The Strickland Lease Is a Major Consideration
Unlike a traditional fee-simple waterfront property, this residence is located on leased land through the Strickland Lease arrangement.
The listing states that the annual lease is approximately $4,900, along with a $5,000 transfer fee.
Fifteen-year term lease options are also reportedly available.
This structure can significantly affect the economics of ownership.
Instead of owning the underlying land outright, the buyer is acquiring an interest in the residence and the applicable lease arrangement.
Before closing, prospective buyers should obtain and review the complete lease agreement.
Important questions include the lease duration, renewal provisions, annual increases, transfer requirements, restrictions on improvements, responsibility for taxes and insurance, dock rights, maintenance obligations, and what happens to the structure when the lease expires.
Understanding the Annual Lease Cost
An annual land lease of approximately $4,900 represents a meaningful recurring expense.
Spread across twelve months, that is roughly $408 per month before considering property taxes, insurance, utilities, maintenance, repairs, dock upkeep, and other expenses.
The listing also identifies a $5,000 transfer fee.
These figures should be incorporated into any long-term ownership calculation.
For an investor, the lease cost would be particularly important when evaluating potential rental income. For a personal-use buyer, it should be included in the household’s annual recreation and housing budget.
The buyer should verify the exact current amount because lease terms and fees can change.
Potential as a Lake Retreat
One of the most straightforward potential uses for this property is a personal lake retreat.
The combination of three bedrooms, two bathrooms, a screened porch, multiple decks, a deep-water dock, and expansive lake views provides many of the features people associate with recreational waterfront living.
A renovation could potentially focus on improving the home’s comfort while preserving the existing relationship between the interior and the lake.
The goal could be a relaxed weekend destination where the owner can fish, boat, entertain friends, enjoy outdoor meals, and escape from a busy routine.
Potential Vacation Rental Considerations
The waterfront setting could also make the property interesting for someone investigating vacation rental opportunities.
However, buyers should not assume that short-term rentals are automatically permitted.
Before considering this strategy, the buyer should verify the rules associated with the land lease, local regulations, insurance requirements, lake restrictions, and any applicable rental licensing requirements.
The financial model should account for seasonal occupancy, cleaning, utilities, maintenance, insurance, property management, platform fees, lease payments, taxes, and renovation expenses.
Only after those costs are understood can a buyer determine whether a rental strategy makes financial sense.
Fishing and Boating Lifestyle
The property’s deep-water dock and lake frontage naturally lend themselves to fishing and boating.
The listing specifically highlights fishing and boating as lifestyle possibilities.
The approximately 15-foot water depth at the dock is a notable feature for those interested in keeping watercraft nearby.
A prospective buyer should investigate current dock regulations and determine what types and sizes of boats can safely use the area.
Lake conditions, shoreline rules, seasonal water levels, and access rights should also be confirmed.
Outdoor Entertaining
Multiple outdoor areas can provide flexibility for entertaining.
The screened porch offers protection and comfort, while the decks can accommodate outdoor seating and dining.
The lake itself becomes the backdrop.
A future renovation could potentially improve the outdoor experience through updated decking, landscaping, lighting, seating, and storage.
Any improvements should be evaluated against lease restrictions and applicable permits.
Building Equity Through Renovation
The listing specifically suggests that the property may offer potential to build equity through improvements.
For a fixer-upper, the basic concept is straightforward: purchase a property with improvement needs, renovate strategically, and potentially increase its usefulness and market appeal.
However, waterfront properties require special caution.
The buyer should determine which improvements provide the greatest benefit without exceeding the property’s realistic market ceiling.
Interior finishes, kitchen improvements, bathrooms, HVAC, flooring, paint, decks, landscaping, and exterior maintenance could all affect appeal, but the appropriate priorities depend on the property’s current condition and comparable sales.
Comparable Waterfront Properties Matter
Before investing heavily in renovations, buyers should study comparable lakefront properties.
Important comparisons include:
- Waterfront frontage
- Water depth
- Dock availability
- Land ownership versus leased land
- Home size
- Number of bedrooms and bathrooms
- Property condition
- Views
- Parking
- Outdoor living space
- Annual lease costs
- Recent sales prices
A property with a spectacular view may command a premium, but the lease structure can affect its value relative to fee-simple waterfront properties.
Professional local market analysis can help buyers understand the relationship between purchase price and potential future value.
Insurance and Waterfront Ownership
Insurance should be investigated before purchasing.
Waterfront properties can involve additional considerations related to storms, flooding, wind, water exposure, docks, detached structures, and liability.
The buyer should obtain insurance quotes early rather than waiting until closing.
The dock should also be specifically discussed with the insurer because coverage for docks and other waterfront structures may differ from standard dwelling coverage.
Insurance costs should be included in the overall ownership budget.
Property Taxes
The listing reports annual property taxes of approximately $773.
That figure provides one relatively modest recurring expense, but buyers should independently confirm the current tax bill and determine how the leased-land arrangement affects property taxation.
Taxes can change following a sale or reassessment.
Any future improvements could also potentially affect assessed value depending on local rules.
A Small Lot With a Large Lifestyle
The property facts report a lot size of approximately 1,960 square feet.
That may appear small when compared with conventional residential properties, but the waterfront setting changes how the land functions.
The property is primarily valuable because of its direct relationship with Jackson Lake.
Instead of needing a large backyard, the owner gains access to lakefront outdoor space, a dock, decks, a screened porch, and expansive views.
The smaller land area also means that buyers should carefully investigate property boundaries and confirm exactly which shoreline and outdoor areas are included under the lease.
Final Thoughts on This Jackson Lake Opportunity
This Jackson, Georgia property offers a distinctive combination of lakefront access, deep-water boating potential, scenic views, and a three-bedroom, two-bathroom home priced at $167,500.
The property features approximately 97 to 100 feet of waterfront, a floating deep-water dock, approximately 15 feet of water depth at the dock, large picture windows, a lakeside deck, screened porch, additional side deck, daylight space beneath part of the house, and a detached three-sided carport.
Built in 2007, the bungalow or cottage-style residence provides a foundation for renovation. The home has three bedrooms and two full bathrooms on the main level, while the primary suite includes a private bathroom, walk-in closet, and direct access to the lakeside deck.
The property is clearly aimed at buyers who are comfortable with a fixer and willing to bring a contractor and renovation plan. It is sold as-is, and the listing specifies cash or hard-money financing only.
Perhaps the most important factor to understand is the leased-land arrangement. The Strickland Lease reportedly involves approximately $4,900 in annual lease costs plus a $5,000 transfer fee, with 15-year lease options available. This makes the lease agreement an essential part of the purchase decision.
For someone seeking a personal lake retreat, the property offers the possibility of creating a customized waterfront getaway centered around fishing, boating, outdoor living, and scenic views. For an investor, there may also be potential renovation or rental strategies, but those possibilities depend on local regulations, lease restrictions, financing, insurance, renovation costs, and actual market demand.
The most sensible approach is to treat the property as a waterfront renovation opportunity rather than a turnkey home. A complete inspection, contractor estimate, lease review, insurance quote, septic evaluation, dock verification, title review, and local regulatory check can help a prospective buyer understand the true cost of ownership.
At $167,500, the property’s appeal is not simply the structure itself. The combination of Jackson Lake frontage, deep water, dock access, outdoor living areas, and wide-open views gives the property a unique recreational character.
For buyers who have the resources and vision to improve a lakefront fixer, this could become a highly personalized retreat designed around one of its greatest assets: the water.
Listed on Zillow.
