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The Lake LBJ Real Estate blog

Toxic Algae Found in Lake LBJ – What it Means?

Posted by on 8-08-23 in Lake LBJ Real Estate, Resources | Comments Off on Toxic Algae Found in Lake LBJ – What it Means?

According to the Lower Colorado River Authority (LCRA) recent testing has detected toxic algae in Inks Lake and Lake LBJ.  Warm weather and harsh drought conditions are likely responsible for this recent development which is not uncommon this time of year.  The LCRA is warning lake patrons to avoid touching or ingesting algae and to keep pets from doing the same.

Most freshwater algae is harmless, and plays a very important role in the aquatic ecosystem but some species (specifically cyanobacteria, also known as Blue-Green algae) can sometimes produce harmful toxins that can pose a health risk to people and pets. These harmful algal blooms 0r HABs can show up without warning or change in appearance.  While it can  be very difficult to determine when this Blue-Green algae will produce toxins, production is typically instigated by excess nutrients (nitrogen and phosphorous), warm and stagnant water, and lots of sunlight.  This toxin production may only last a few hours or can persist for several weeks.

It should also be noted that the name Blue-Green Algae can be a little misleading as this algae is known to be blue/green, dark green, brown and/or black.  Because visual identification can be difficult its best to avoid all algae.

Symptoms of exposure to these harmful toxins in humans can include skin and eye irritations, rashes and in more severe cases diarrhea, cramps, vomiting to fainting, dizziness or numbness, and tingling in lips, fingers and toes.  If you are worried about exposure contact your doctor or a poison control center immediately.

So what does this mean for those looking to enjoy Lake LBJ? It simply means to use caution when enjoying the lake..  Being that you likely are not one to purposefully eat algae I think you are safe.  Be sure to keep a close eye on children and pets as they enjoy Lake LBJ and always be aware of your surroundings to avoid potentially harmful encounters.  For more information on this toxic algae visit the LCRA website or for assistance with Lake LBJ Real Estate reach out to your local real estate expert at (512) 786-1515.  Be safe out there!

 

Luxury Villa on Lake LBJ – Not in MLS

Posted by on 8-08-23 in Granite Shoals, Lake LBJ Real Estate, Luxury Real Estate on Lake LBJ | Comments Off on Luxury Villa on Lake LBJ – Not in MLS

This is one of my all-time favorites on Lake LBJ and I am so excited to share it with the world.  Built across 3 combined waterfront lots this property sits at just over 1 acre with approx. 200 feet of prime, Lake LBJ frontage facing due south to capture the cool breeze off the water in the hottest of months.  With 6 bedrooms, 7 full baths and 6181 sq ft plus a 3-car, oversized garage and a detached 1-car workshop or cart barn this Tuscan-inspired Luxury lake house is everything you could ever dream up and more.  No expense was sparred in creating this one-of-a-kind home and there are so many incredible and unique features that will steal your heart: Laundry room with center island, movie theater, solid stone bathing tub, main-level guest suite, outdoor living space galore and a beautiful yard with gentle slope down to the water with incredible Live Oak trees. The price of this one is being kept private but qualified buyers reach out for more information or a private showing.  Thanks for your interest in this prime piece of Lake LBJ Real Estate!

 

SOLD: Prime Waterfront Lot in Kingsland

Posted by on 8-08-23 in Lake LBJ Real Estate | Comments Off on SOLD: Prime Waterfront Lot in Kingsland

We are super excited to announce our recent sale of 559 Crestwood in Kingsland, Texas.  This super prime, waterfront tract is one of the BEST you will find anywhere on Lake LBJ.  Full of huge, old-growth Live Oak trees among others this ready-to-build waterfront tract is the perfect spot to construct a new lake home and with 110 feet of southern-facing waterfront on the widest section of the Colorado River of Lake LBJ you will be hard-pressed to find better water.  This property was kept out of MLS and the sales price will not be disclosed at the request of the buyer and seller.  If you are in the market for Lake LBJ Real Estate it pays to work with the Local Expert.  Give me a call (512) 786-1515 for a first-look at our next one.

 

Off-Water Lot with Deeded Boat Slip

Posted by on 8-08-23 in Kingsland, Kingsland Real Estate, Lake LBJ Real Estate | Comments Off on Off-Water Lot with Deeded Boat Slip

As Lake LBJ waterfront values continue to rise this off-water lot in the Hidden Oaks subdivision that includes a deeded boat slip might be a good option for buyers on a tight budget.  This tree-studded lot in Kingsland, Texas is ready to build with all utilities in place, including electric and sewer, along with a private water well.  This Lake LBJ homesite is full of some very old Live Oak trees that offer plenty of shade from the harsh Texas sun.  If you are ready to start enjoying the Lake Life for a fraction of the price of waterfront property consider this opportunity. Qualified buyers reach out at (512) 786-1515 for more info

 

Undeveloped Lot on Lake LBJ

Posted by on 8-08-23 in Kingsland, Kingsland Real Estate, Lake LBJ Real Estate | Comments Off on Undeveloped Lot on Lake LBJ

One of the last remaining, undeveloped tracts of land on the Colorado Arm of Lake LBJ is being offered for sale. 1514 Williams Lakeshore is a very unique property consisting of approximately 1 acre with 150 feet of prime waterfront, extending out to the middle of the river with 2 additional acres located directly across the street.  This unique offering has a new retaining wall and recently completed two-stall boat dock with a spot to park waverunners.  The property has all utilities in place, including water, sewer and electric service and with minimal restrictions and no municipality development couldn’t be any easier.  Often times finding the right piece of Lake LBJ Real Estate with the right house can be extremely challenging due to the overall scarcity of waterfront on the lake.  Sometimes building new on the perfect lot is the way to go.  Here is your oppportunity to acquire one of the Best of Lake LBJ Real Estate. Qualified buyers reach out for more information.

 

Rare Single-story on Big Water

Posted by on 8-08-23 in Granite Shoals, Lake LBJ Real Estate | Comments Off on Rare Single-story on Big Water

140 Web Isle is a very rare offering on Lake LBJ.  This 3643 sq ft, single-story home with a three car garage offers one of the most open floor plans I have seen on Lake LBJ and approximately 218 feet of prime waterfront on one of the widest sections of Lake LBJ.  The home was recently renovated and is being sold fully furnished with the right deal.  This property is also located in a part of Lake LBJ that allows short-term rentals and the home would do very well.  If you are looking for a prime piece of Lake LBJ Real estate consider 140 Web Isle because properties this good are very hard to come by.  Qualified buyers reach out at (512) 786-1515 for more information or to schedule a tour.

Protest Property Taxes on Lake LBJ

Posted by on 4-04-23 in Lake LBJ Real Estate | Comments Off on Protest Property Taxes on Lake LBJ

 

Appraisal values for Lake LBJ Real Estate in both Burnet County and Llano County have been released and many homeowners are shocked at the valuations being put on their properties.  I strongly encourage everyone to protest their taxes, even if you have a homestead exemption, over 65 exemption or have tried in the past and not been successful.  This is a no-risk process with only upside if you win.  Personally I try and protest my property taxes every single year because I believe this is the only way to keep these valuations at bay.  Often times my success does not come from the informal meeting with an appraiser, or even the protest hearing but rather through binding arbitration.  Many people stop just before this step because it sounds intimidating but I have found it to be very fruitful and in past years have received the result I wanted.

Step 1 – Fill out your “Notice of Protest” for 2023.  This will put the County on notice that you plan to protest your Lake LBJ real estate property tax valuation. When filling out this form it is very important that you check the appropriate boxes.  You are not required to give an opinion of value here but if you have one that you plan to build a case for then I recommend including it here. You also want to check the box stating that you would like an “Informal hearing” ahead of time.  This will give you an opportunity to talk with an appraiser and potentially make a deal, but this is also a good time to request all information that they will be presenting for your case.  You will also have the option to include information to support your case but I make a few basic statements here and then present my case during the meetings.

If you need assistance, tips or even a recommendation for someone that can help you fight Property Taxes on Lake LBJ send me an email at EricatCarvajalGroupdotcom  (EricatCarvajalGroupdotcom)   and I will be happy to help.  Follow along for more tips and information that I will post in the coming days and weeks. Thanks for reading!

 

Eric Carvajal

Lake LBJ Real Estate Expert

(512) 786-1515

Just Listed: 1833 Highland Drive on Lake LBJ

Posted by on 3-03-23 in Highland Haven, Lake LBJ Real Estate | Comments Off on Just Listed: 1833 Highland Drive on Lake LBJ

If you are in the market for an affordable Lake LBJ getaway look no further than 1833 Highland Drive in the Noble section of Highland Haven. This 3 bedroom, 2 bath single-story home is cozy and cute and ready to be enjoyed for many years to come. Open floorplan with country kitchen, large living and dining all looking out onto the beautiful lake. Additional living space offers flexibility for extra sleeping or a place for multiple families to spread out and play! Beautiful wooden deck outside the home just a few steps away from the lake. The grassy yard is perfectly shaded by a majestic Live Oak which provides wonderful shade all year around and the southern breeze makes it the ideal spot to enjoy Lake LIfe. This property has a steel-constructed boat dock with concrete decking so you can be sure your toys are protected! This area of Highland Haven does not have restrictions against short-term rentals and would make a great cash flowing investment. Qualified buyers reach out for more information and to schedule a private tour of this fantastic piece of Lake LBJ Real Estate!

 

 

 

 

Lake LBJ Quick Facts

Posted by on 3-03-23 in Lake LBJ Real Estate | Comments Off on Lake LBJ Quick Facts

If it isn’t obvious I am extremely passionate about Lake LBJ Real Estate.  I have spent hours and hours, honing my craft but I will never stop learning because I want to always be a wealth of knowledge for the clients we serve.  I love sharing this information because it helps others make sounds decisions based on good information from a local source.  If we can help you buy, sell or own waterfront property on Lake LBJ please reach out. Otherwise enjoy the Lake LBJ Quick Facts below:

 

Lake LBJ

Lake area –6,432 acres

Elevation when full – 825 feet msl

Volume when full – 131,618 acre-feet

Historic high – 836.2 feet msl on Sept. 11, 1952

Historic low – 793.8 feet msl on Nov. 16, 1970

Target operating range – 824.4 to 825 feet msl

Dimensions – 21.15 miles long and 10,800 feet at widest point

100-year flood level at dam 828.1 feet msl

Original name: Lake Granite Shoals

Max Depth: 90 ft

**Information gathered from the Lower Colorado River Authority website (LCRA.org) and TPW website

 

Eric Carvajal

Real Estate Broker / LBJ Expert

(512) 786-1515

EricatCarvajalGroupdotcom

TREC # 0509980

Property Tax Rates Around Lake LBJ

Posted by on 2-02-23 in Everything Else | Comments Off on Property Tax Rates Around Lake LBJ

 

As values around Lake LBJ and Texas in general, Property Taxes have come more and more into focus. While the property Tax Rates on Lake LBJ vary from community to community, they are for the most part lower than what you will find in major Texas cities. Before you purchase a property make sure you have a good understanding of the property tax liability and how it might change upon purchase. I typically recommend budgeting for property taxes as if the value were to be bumped up to the price you paid. While this is a worst-case scenarios it gives a good conservative estimate as to what to expect. Remember the current tax amount is based on the current appraisal value, but that value is changing every year AND often times gets re-evaluated each time a property sells.

Below is a list in order from lowest to highest property tax rates around Lake LBJ so you can know what to expect. * Be sure to confirm these rates on your own *

  • Oak Ridge/ Sandy Harbor – %1.354

 

  • Sunrise Beach – %1.396

 

  • Kingsland – Llano Side –  %1.43%

 

  • Wilderness Cove – %1.455

 

  • shady acres – %1.52

 

  • Horseshoe Bay – %1.524

 

  • Blue Lake / Deerhaven – %1.547

 

  • Highland Haven – %1.58

 

  • Kingsland – Burnet Side – %1.71

 

  • Granite Shoals – %2.023

 

As you can see there is quite a bit of discrepancy from the lowest to the highest property tax rate on Lake LBJ but keep in mind that the accuracy of the appraised values matters as well.  If appraised values in a particular community are more inline with market value, tax rates in those areas should be lower.  Granite Shoals has its own police and fire station and also pays into the school district which is why their tax rate is much higher than adjacent communities.

Follow along for more Lake LBJ Real Estate Tips and/or reach out with questions surrounding Property Tax Rates on Lake LBJ or anything else please reach out at (512) 786-1515.  Thanks for reading!

 

Eric Carvajal

LBJ Expert, Broker

(512) 786-1515