Walworth Counties Real Estate and Community News

Dec. 15, 2022

Winter Things To Do In & Around Geneva Lake

Winter Things To Do Around Geneva Lake

There are so many different areas all around the country that are full of beautiful homes and incredible views, but Geneva Lake is one of a kind. This stunning area is full of beauty that you can't find anywhere else and a lifestyle that will make you feel like a whole new person. The wintertime is the best place to engage in some of the fantastic activities and events that are going on all around the area that are perfect for a fun day with friends or family. If you want to know a bit more about some of these incredible events, have a look at this helpful list to see some great winter things to do in and around Geneva Lake.

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Posted in Buying a Home
Dec. 14, 2022

Winterizing Your Waterfront Property

Winterizing Your Waterfront Property

Waterfront property is a great investment, and it’s one of the best ways to give yourself amazing views all year long. Wintertime isn't the best for swimming or boating, so you’ll likely be spending quite a bit of time indoors instead. It's a good idea to make sure your property will be secure and healthy when the spring months defrost everything, so have a look at this great guide to winterizing waterfront property. 

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Posted in Buying a Home
Oct. 28, 2022

Whitewater Lake, Wisconsin: 7 Reasons You Will Love Living Here

Whitewater Lake, Wisconsin: 7 Reasons You Will Love Living Here

Located 51 miles from Madison, 53 miles from Milwaukee, and 106 miles from Chicago, Whitewater Lake is a popular destination for those wanting a weekend getaway into the wilderness or a fishing, boating, or skiing excursion.  But many make the city of Whitewater and Whitewater Lake their year-round residence.

 

Most of Whitewater Lake is a part of the city of Whitewater, but the southern end is part of the Town of Richmond.  The city of Whitewater is seven miles northwest of the lake.  The central part of the Town of Richmond is a bit to the southwest.  They are both in the county of Walworth.  The population of Whitewater is around 20,000 people.  

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Posted in Community News
Oct. 28, 2022

The Ultimate Guide To Living in Genoa City, WI

The Ultimate Guide To Living in Genoa City, WI

Nestled in the heart of Wisconsin, Geno City is a thriving midwestern gem with a population of around 5,000 people. This city is home to many large corporations and well-known families which contributes to its strong economy. 

 

The cost of living in Genoa City is quite affordable and the city experiences a unique lifestyle that is ideal for families and young professionals. In this guide, we will explore all aspects of living in Genoa City, WI including its fame, economy, cost of living, and lifestyle.

 

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Posted in Community News
Sept. 30, 2022

The Ultimate Guide To Living in Williams Bay, WI

The Ultimate Guide To Living in Williams Bay, WI in 2022

Located on the shores of Geneva Lake in the southeastern corner of the state, Williams Bay is a picturesque oasis away from the hustle and bustle of big city life. The area was originally a vacation spot for Chicago natives whose houses were burned in the Great Chicago Fire of 1871. Today, it is a summer destination for those living in Chicago, Milwaukee, and Madison and a full-time residence for just over 2,500 people. 

The Village of Williams Bay is located on the northern side of Geneva Lake, surrounding an inlet bay. The central part of the town (where all of the businesses and city services are located) is on the northeast end of the bay. Houses are built on either side of the bay as well as inland. The area has tall trees and lush lawns, creating a friendly, peaceful, small-town setting.

Here is the ultimate guide to living in Williams Bay, WI, in 2022.

Location

Williams Bay is centrally located between three major metropolitan areas – Chicago, Milwaukee, and Madison. This makes it a vacation destination. Chicago is around 90 miles southeast on US Hwy 90. O'Hare International Airport is 74 miles away via public and toll roads.

Milwaukee is just over 50 miles away to the northeast via US Hwy 43. The quickest way to Lake Michigan is straight east to Kenosha – about 40 miles. The state capital of Madison is around 70 miles northwest via US Hwy 90. 

Due to its location, climate, and ambiance, Williams Bay was voted among Wisconsin's top places to retire. 

Homes

Over three-quarters of the residents of Williams Bay own their own homes. As a result, the area is very stable, and the home prices are steady. The Village of Williams Bay is well-kept and a desirable place to live. There are established neighborhoods, lakefront mansions, and new construction sites. There are houses on each side of the bay. Some are right on the waterfront, and some are tucked just a few blocks away. There are also homes to the west of the main town in prairie or forested areas. You are never very far from Geneva Lake. Nearby Lake Como and the town of Geneva also offer alternative home sites.

Here are a few of the desirable neighborhoods:

  • Lakewood Trails is a higher-priced neighborhood to the north and west of the lake.

  • Prairie View is to the west of Lakewood Trails and to the north of Williams Bay High School.

  • Willabay Shores Condominiums are in the northeast corner of the bay.

  • Baywood Estates and Dartmouth Woods are outside the Bay on the central waters of Lake Geneva. Here you will find homes over one million in price. 

Lakefront Homes in Williams Bay, WI

Schools

Children attend the Williams Bay School District. Public schools are Williams Bay Elementary or Fontana Elementary, Williams Bay Junior High School, and Williams Bay High School. Faith Christian School also serves grades K-12. 

George Williams College of Aurora University is located on the lake. Undergraduate programs include business management, environmental  studies and sustainability, nursing, psychology, and social work. The home campus is in Aurora, Illinois. 

The Lake

Geneva Lake is a 5401-acre freshwater lake that is 7.7 miles long with a depth of up to 135 feet. Six boat ramps are scattered around the perimeter, including one in Williams Bay. Anglers can catch panfish, large and smallmouth bass, northern pike, trout, and walleye. If you are new to the sport, The Hook Up Fishing Guide Service is a local business at the top of the bay; they will take you out and show you the ropes.

Geneva Lake has swimming areas, navigation lanes for cruising, and mooring areas. Water skiing is popular. Regulations are posted. There's plenty of water for everyone

Williams Bay is an inlet on the north side of the lake. One of the boat launches is at the north end of the bay. The Williams Bay Beach and piers surround the boat launch. You can tie your boat up on a private pier or dock close to shore.

The Williams Bay Recreation Department rents kayaks and stand-up paddleboards and hosts events and camps for adults and children. Take a yoga or tai chi class at nearby Edgewater Park. Sit on the water's edge and paint or draw. 

Edgewater Park also has a playground and picnic shelter where you can grill while the kids run around on the lush grass.

Other lakefront parks include Oak Grove Park, Walnut Grove Park, and Duck Pond Recreation Area.

The Ultimate Guide To Living In & Moving To Lake Geneva, WI

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The Ultimate Guide To Living In & Moving To Lake Geneva, WI

Restaurants

For a nice dinner, a quick bite to eat, dessert, or a social gathering, The Village at Williams Bay has a fine selection of eateries.

  • Pier 290 is on the west side of the Bay. They serve upscale American fare with lake views and an outdoor bar. A sandy beach and fire pits accommodate crowds. Come for brunch on the weekends. The lunch and dinner menu has salads, sea/lake fish, steaks, soups, and more. Save room for a selection from the dessert menu.

  • For a more casual dining experience, head to Harpoon Willie's. Open for lunch and dinner; you will feel like you are in a rustic pub on the seashore. They specialize in BBQ, burgers, tacos, entrees, pizzas, and salads. Specialty coffees, cocktails, and desserts are also on the menu.

  • Bay Cooks is a new restaurant that just opened in early 2022. Offering Mexican and American dishes for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, you'll find something for everyone. Skillets, sandwiches, salads, burgers, pasta, traditional Mexican fare, seafood, and desserts are just part of the menu.

  • On hot summer days, stop by the Frosty Moose for ice cream. There are 5,000 flavors of soft serve ice cream, plus gluten-free and dairy-free options. There is a selection of sandwiches available as well.

  • Daddy Maxwell's Diner & Café is a quirky, old-fashioned eatery shaped like an igloo. There are homemade pies, quiches, cakes, Wisconsin brats, and numerous breakfast and all-day fare. Each Friday, they host a fish fry. 

Great Restaurant Options in Williams Bay, WI

Shopping

Williams Bay and the nearby town of Lake Geneva have all the stores for groceries and necessities. There are some other charming independent shops that you should check out.

  • Geneva Lake General Store is filled with home items, handmade jewelry, and themed souvenirs. 

  • Clear Waters Salon and Day Spa is centrally located on Geneva Street. Get your hair and nails done, and treat yourself to a calming facial treatment.

  • The Cashmere Cape is the local yarn and supply store for all of your woven projects.

  • Winslow Studio 11 is a gallery owned by two artists – one specializing in fine art and one creates wood pieces.

Shopping in Williams Bay, WI

Village Life

The Village of Williams Bay is a charming small town with a sense of community.

  • Barret Memorial Library has adult and children's programs and an extensive collection of books, videos, and reference materials. 

  • Town Government – there are elected and appointed officials and over a dozen committees that set guidelines for the town. Williams Bay has a police department and municipal court. 

  • In the summer, the US Postal Service delivers mail from the water. It's called mail jumping and was first practiced in 1873. Mail boats cruise close to piers, and the mail delivery person jumps from the boat to the pier, delivers the mail, and then jumps back on the boat. 
The Ultimate Guide To Moving To & Living In Lauderdale Lakes, WI [2022]

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A Place to See the Stars

Williams Bay is far enough away from metropolis areas to have very dark skies. As a result, the area has been a mecca for astronomers. The University of Chicago established the Yerkes Observatory in 1897. It contains the world's largest refracting (lens) telescope. On Albert Einstein's first visit to the United States, he visited this observatory. Several famous astronomers made Williams Bay their home, including Edward Emerson Barnard, George Ellery Hale, Edwin Hubble, Gerard Kuiper, Otto Struve, and Subrahmanyam Chandrasekhar.

The Yerkes Observatory is now open for public tours. Known as "the birthplace of modern astrophysics," it's a gorgeous building filled with history.

Other Attractions

  • Belfry Theatre was a summer stock theatre host to actors such as Paul Newman, Harrison Ford, and Gary Burghoff. It's currently used as a music theatre with local productions.

  • Rex Park is a local dog park located in Williams Bay. There are separate areas for both large and small dogs. Dogs must be licensed, but the park is free for all to use.

  • Kishwauketoe Nature Conservancy is a protected area with over 65 acres of prairie, 4 miles of trails, a 15-acre arboretum, and woodlands. Former lands of the Potawatomi Indians, residents of the area spent two years fighting against development. The result is a beautiful area dedicated to the children of tomorrow.

Moving to Williams Bay

If you are looking for a small town with a lot of charm that is close to the water and not too far from a metropolitan area, look no further than the Village of Williams Bay, Wisconsin. With tree-lined streets and manicured lawns, the town is filled with a combination of retirees and families. There is a sense of community, and everyone is welcome.  You will enjoy living in Williams Bay, WI.

Sal Dimiceli, located in Lake Geneva, WI is a detail oriented REAL ESTATE professional that offers his clients total customer satisfaction whether they are first time homebuyer, or experienced seller/buyer relocating to Lake Geneva. This experienced real estate professional knows the industry and thrives on getting the clients exactly what they are looking for.

A local Williams Bay real estate agent is ready to help you find your new home!

Posted in Buying a Home
Aug. 23, 2022

9 Reasons To Live In Lyons, WI In 2022

9 Reasons To Live In Lyons, WI - Main Image

Have you ever wondered what living in a small town would be like? If you have, then you should consider moving to Lyons, WI. This charming town is situated in the Southeast corner of Wisconsin, in Walroth County, and is bursting with Midwestern hospitality.

From the tight-knit community to the many outdoor activities, there are so many reasons why Lyons, WI has become such a desirable place to live among young families and retirees. Follow along to learn more about why you should make the move to Lyons, WI in 2022!

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Posted in Buying a Home
Aug. 17, 2022

5 Things You Need To Know About Living In Lake Como, Wisconsin

5 Things You Need To Know About Living In Lake Como, Wisconsin - Main Image

A quiet community called Lake Como is located in the southeast area of Wisconsin, just over 50 miles southwest of Milwaukee and 85 miles northwest of Chicago. Lake Como is the smaller neighbor of Geneva Lake, a 5400-acre, seven and one-half mile long lake. By comparison, Lake Como is 955 acres. Hwy 50 separates the two lakes. The town of Como in Walworth County has a population of about 2,700 residents and is situated on the North side of the lake.

Como, Wisconsin, is a great place to raise a family. The area has a rural feel, and most people own their homes. It has all the amenities you want. There are parks, restaurants, good schools, shopping areas, quiet neighborhoods, and abundant recreational opportunities. The town of Lake Geneva is just to the south with more options. Interstate 43 and Hwy 12 crisscross north of town and connect to Milwaukee and Chicago.

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Posted in Buying a Home
July 19, 2022

Powers Lake, WI: 9 Reasons To Live Here In 2022

Powers Lake, WI: 9 Reasons To Live Here - Main Image

Moving to Powers Lake, WI is a great way to enjoy all that the Midwest has to offer. This quaint small town is nestled in the beautiful countryside of Kenosha County. While it may be best known for its Powers Lake State Park, there are plenty of reasons to call Powers Lake home.

The community is close-knit and welcoming, and there are plenty of activities to enjoy, from fishing and hiking to snowmobiling and cross-country skiing. Plus, moving to Powers Lake means you'll be just a short drive from major cities like Milwaukee and Chicago. So if you're looking for a place to call home in the Midwest, be sure to consider our top 9 reasons for living in Powers Lake, WI.

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Posted in Buying a Home
July 19, 2022

The Ultimate Guide To Moving To & Living In Lauderdale Lakes, WI

The Ultimate Guide To Moving To & Living In Lauderdale Lakes, WI [2022] - Main Image

Moving to a new location can be both exciting and daunting. There's so much to explore and learn, but it can also be tough to find your footing in a new place. If you're considering a move to Lauderdale Lakes, WI, we going to let you in on a little secret: It's all good!

Lauderdale Lakes, WI is a beautiful town in southeastern Wisconsin. It's known for its scenic parks and lakes, a lively, diverse nightlife, and great restaurants. The locals are friendly and welcoming, so you'll soon feel right at home.

With its affordable cost of living and close proximity to Milwaukee, there's no better time to make the move to Lauderdale Lakes, Wi.

Here's our ultimate guide to moving to and living in Lauderdale Lakes, WI to help make this as stress-free a process as possible.

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Posted in Buying a Home
June 15, 2022

Top 10 Reasons To Buy A Vacation Home In Geneva, WI [2022]

Top 10 Reasons To Buy A Vacation Home In Geneva, WI - Main Image

When most people think of vacation homes, they usually think of far-away places like Hawaii or the Florida Keys. But if you're looking for an idyllic escape that's close to home, consider buying a vacation home in Geneva, WI. With its stunning natural scenery and plethora of outdoor activities, it's no wonder this is one of the best

Plus, thanks to its convenient location of just under an hour from Milwaukee, getting to Geneva is easy no matter where you live. So if you're thinking about buying a vacation home, don't overlook Geneva – it may be just what you're looking for.

 

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Posted in Buying a Home