 Frequently asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions about Chautauqua Lake Real Estate
Over the years we have been asked many of the same questions by buyers of Chautauqua Lake & County Real Estate. This page is an attempt to answer many of the most common questions. Please visit our homepage at www.chautauquarealestatelistings.com. there is a wealth of additional information for you. We also post current information on our blog chautauquarealestatelistings.com blogspot.com about real estate and activities around Chautauqua Lake & County. E-mail us anytime at frankandsuzette@reahomesearch.com and we will answer any specific questions you have.
In no particular order starting with questions most asked about Chautauqua Lake Real Estate.
What is lake access, deeded lakerights, lake rights etc?
As you investigate the purchase of a home on or around Lake Chautauqua you will come across the terms:
Lake Front: Self explanatory and the most valuable of all lake related properties.
Canal Front: Homes located on the canals around the lake. Example: Vukote, Keller Road, Mill Road, Shore Acres. Affordable water properties generally under $250K. Almost without exception you can dock your boat outside your door.
Lake Access: An overused marketing term. Anybody from anywhere in the world has "lake access" to any public lake. In Chautauqua terms you are in an area with a cut thru that allows possible pick up and drop off but, no dock slip. Very little value added to the Real Estate.
Deed Lake Rights: Generally means you have in your deed access to an area of the lake that allows you to have a boat slip on possibly a shared or private dock. DLR's are thru neighborhood groups or associations. Sunset Bay on Rte: 430 and Sunrise Cove on Rte 394 are examples of Deeded Lake Right communities. A yearly fee maybe involved. There is value added to a home with deeded lake rights.
Deeded Lake Rights does not gurantee that you will get a boat slip. That is determined by the association or individual(s) that oversee the dock(s). You may find you have pick up and drop off rights only and or just the right to access the lake over a deeded right of way to stick your feet in or go swimming.
Lake Rights: Is interchagable at times with deeded lake rights. It is best to investigate and possibly put a contingency in the contract for sale asking for a complete understanding of the meaning. Many old homeowners have been surprised to find they have no lake rights they just got along well with the neighbors over the years and developed a camraderie that allowed a dock, boat slip etc. Only to find when they went to sell the home there was no legal conveyance of that enjoyment. Which affected value.
What is the average sale price of a Chautauqua Lakefront Home?
From 1/1/2006-1/1/2007 there were:
48 Chautauqua Lakefront sales. The following averages do not take into account lakerights, condos/townhomes, canalfronts or land or community owned lakefrontage. The figures reflect single family homes with lakefrontage only. The average LF home sale in 06 had 68 linear ft of waterfrontage.
COMBINED
AVERAGES: Adjusted Price List Price Closing Price Bedrooms Full Baths Half Baths Est Sq Ft DOM
$410,798 $410,798 $376,624 3.0 1.0 0.0 1,836 150
From 1/1/2005-1/1/2006 there were:
55 Chautauqua Lakefront sales. The following averages do not take into account lakerights, condos/townhomes, canalfronts or land or community owned lakefrontage. The figures reflect single family homes with lakefrontage only. The average LF home sale in 05 had 87 linear ft of waterfrontage.
COMBINED
AVERAGES: Adjusted Price List Price Closing Price Bedrooms Full Baths Half Baths Est Sq Ft DOM
$443,592 $443,592 $405,415 3.0 1.0 0.0 1,763 101
From 1/1/2004-1/1/2005 there were:
50 Chautauqua Lakefront sales. The following averages do not take into account lakerights, condos/townhomes, canalfronts or land. The figures reflect single family homes with lakefrontage only. The average LF home sale in 04 had 79.66 linear ft of waterfrontage.
COMBINED
AVERAGES: Adjusted Price List Price Closing Price Bedrooms Full Baths Half Baths Est Sq Ft DOM
$378,963 $378,963 $347,743 3.0 1.0 0.0 1,778 114
DOM refers to Days on Market. This is from the time a home is listed till it closes. A home can get an accepted offer day one on the market and take 5 months to close because of complications with financing, title etc. The average closing time for an accepted offer is 60 days.
If you would like a more detailed breakdown that would include all sales associated with the lake not just lakefronts contact me at frankandsuzette@reahomesearch.com We can also provide you with info on Findley, Cassadaga, Erie & Bear Lake.
Is purchasing a lake home a good investment?
Yes, They don't make it anymore. No one is digging a hole and filling it with water. We are within 2-4 hours from 5 major metropolitan areas. Land on the lake is getting developed or being purchased for conservation which drives what is left up in value. Chautauqua Lake property does not appreciate like a hockey stick. It goes up gradually with an occasional spike so, over a 3-5 year look back your investment in fun will pay off. Plus, you have demographics on your side babyboomers are buying and we'll continue to do so for many, many years to come. Then with the educated Gen X'rs making good money and inheriting from babyboomer mom and dad who hopefully got some from the greatest generation I get shivers just thinking of the transfer of wealth. So, yes it is a good investment. And remember:
Once upon a time buying a second home was something only the very rich and influential could afford to do. Not so anymore. Today the real estate market has become more and more accessible (and affordable) for those interested in purchasing a second home.
A second home is considered to be an investment due in large part to the fact that it provides a tax break, much like a mortgage-interest tax deduction. It is also a way to diversify assets out of stocks. And if the homeowner (s) should decide to rent the property instead of live in it themselves, they will not only collect extra income, but may also be able to deduct depreciation.
Beyond the financial incentives, are there other reasons to buy a second home? Of course! Some people are looking for more than an investment, instead they see a second home as leisure. And why shouldn’t they?
The prospect of buying a second home can be an exciting one. A “home away from home” offers people the opportunity to escape for the weekend or a vacation with family in a relaxing, less stressful environment than they are accustomed to in their day-to-day lives. The idea of ‘splitting their time’ between two residences is a very attraction option to many. Others still are thinking ahead to their retirement days and would like to retire somewhere warm (especially those who live in areas with harsh winters).
More people choose the location of their second home based on where they truly want to live because it is a spot that is near and dear to their heart. While a first home might have been purchased in a particular area due to financial considerations, proximity to school, work, amenities, family members etc., a second home can more than anything be what, and where, the owners want it to be. No longer is the concern how close you are to bus routes, the office, the shopping mall, your children’s doctors and dentists but now blissful enjoyment takes over. That is why many think of owning a second home as a dream come true.
There are certain locations that are most popular for buying a second home. These areas include the seaside, lakeshore and mountains. Many people yearn for solitude and fewer crowds; others thrill at the idea of bubbling brooks and the sound of birds; while still others are concerned with warm temperatures and how often the sun shines.
Whatever your priorities, rest assured that there is a second home that is just right for you. Leisure time can take on a whole new meaning (and a much greater one) once you can use it for all the things you’ve always wanted to do. A second home can provide all that, and so much more.
Are there better locations than others?
There are NO bad areas. As with any real estate market there are more desirable areas than others. All the Chautauqua County Lakes are nice and each community has something to offer. As Julia and I help you guided by your preferences and pocketbook we will explain the pluses and minuses of each location your interested in.
What is the minimum amount I can purchase a 2nd home for?
December 2006 saw a home in Burtis Bay listed for $62,900 with 28ft of lakefront go under contract for sale. Burtis Bay is the least expensive location on the lake to purchase a home it also has some of the best lakeviews of any area on the lake. A 75k shack with 25ft sold in Lakewood in 2004 that was the end of an era north of Burtis Bay (It was a shack). Off the lake with lakerights 55K would be about the minimum. Keep in mind this is not a science what I'm saying is purely a guideline. You should really expect to pay at least 150K+ for a modest lakefront on a small lot located south of I-86. North of the I-86 bridge prices move up. The Southern Basin (south of the bridge) has seen a very steady growth in popularity and prices in the past 5 years.
Are there any waterfront lots available?
Yes, they are becoming very rare and very expensive you can anticipate paying in the low to mid 6 figures for a lakefront lot.
In 2006 The average linear foot $ amount for lakefrontage without a home was $2,885. There were 3 recorded lakefront lot sales in 2006 in the Chautauqua Multiple Listing Service. At the time of this writing there are 8 lakefront lots listed 7 are in the MLS and one of those is under contract. The average sale price was $300,000 with 104 ft of lakefront.
In 2005 The average linear foot $ amount for lakefrontage without a home was $1,897. There were 4 recorded lakefront lot sales in 2005 in the Chautauqua Multiple Listing Service.
In 2004 The average linear foot $ amount for lakefrontage without a home was $2,197. There were 6 recorded lakefront lot sales in 2004 in the Chautauqua Multiple Listing Service.
2006: With a home included the linear foot $ amount is $5,539.00
2005: With a home included the linear foot $ amount is $4,660.00
2004 : With a home included the linear foot $ amount is $4,365.00
How much of a downpayment do I need?
Lakeshore Savings will do a vacation home mortgage for 5% down. That is the minimum we've ever seen. If you can get a downpayment for less on a second home please let us know we are always looking for good lenders.
How much does it cost to build?
That is a question with a very broad answer depending on a plethora of variables. You can use as a guide approx: $110.00+ a sq foot plus the cost of land. You maybe be able to get a home built for less and I'm sure you can find a contractor to charge you more (ha ha).
Are homes being built?
The www.BemusBayCondos.com Bemus Point started building a condo complex between the Surf Club and the Hotel Lenhart. 40 Units priced from the mid 300's-600K+. 30% were sold in the pre construction phase. My firm Real Estate Advantage Sold 5 of them as of 8/1/07 including the most expensive unit 405 Browning.
Rumor has it that Falcons landing, Rte 394 Ellery will see the start of a lake home community of up to 18 homes starting in the 400's.
Sunrise Cove in North Harmony had the two new builds sold by Real Estate Advantage in 2006 in the 360K range. Two more new builds were sold by our firm in 2007.
In 2006 there were numerous single family builds on the lake either brand new builds or more common a tear down and rebuild.
If interested in building please contact us for more information.
Most towns are seeing a rise in permits: This information was posted in the Post Journal 9/4/2005. Last recorded data.
New homes By Town
Busti: 2001-2005 average: 15 new homes a year High: 17 Low: 13
Chautauqua: 1999-2005 average: 27 new homes a year High: 33 Low: 21
Ellery: Single-family new house construction building permits:
1996: 0 buildings
1997: 0 buildings
1998: 0 buildings
1999: 2 buildings, average cost: $200,000
2000: 2 buildings, average cost: $300,000
2001: 1 building, cost: $200,000
2002: 1 building, cost: $80,000
2003: 2 buildings, average cost: $225,000
2004: 4 buildings, average cost: $250,000
Ellicott: 2001-2005 average: 15 new homes a year High/Low: 15
Kiantone: 2001-2005 average 32 new buildings a year includes homes, business buildings, warehouses, factories etc.
Hunt Road in Busti has 40 new housing units (Shadow Creek) going in over the next 1-10 years. Havercamp Road in North Harmony will build the first phase of 10 vacation homes to be completed by late 2006 or early 2007. The village of Lakewood will see approximately 13 homes ranging about $250,000 each which will be built atop the former Lakewood Elementary School site two have been built.
If I want to add on or renovate do I have to get a building permit?
Outside yes, Inside maybe most likely no. Your contractor can give you an informed opinion.
Do I need an attorney to close?
Yes. You want to use a local attorney your transaction will go much smoother. The Real Estate market in Chautauqua County is a fairly small group of affiliates. Everyone knows of one another and as situations arise in transactions many times personal relationships can get problems resolved quickly. If you do not know a local attorney we can refer you to a number of very pleasant competent ones.
Are home inspections common and needed?
Yes, and we recomend you get one. New York Home Inspectors Must Be Licensed(January 18, 2006) -- Under a new state law in New York, home inspectors are required to be licensed before they can inspect a home for compensation.The New York State Association of REALTORS® alerted its members in a recent Government Affairs Update that, according to the New York Department of State, real estate licensees are obligated to make sure that the home inspectors they recomend to customers, clients, buyers, and sellers are licensed. To determine if a home inspector is licensed in New York, check the appsext5.dos.state.ny.us page at the Department of State’s Web site or call 518/474-4429. —By Michele Lerner for REALTOR® Magazine Online
Figure between $250.00 to $400.00 for a basic inspection and $100.00 per for additional services.
If the home is serviced by a well we recomend you get a well flow test to determine the gallons per minute. The test will cost approx: $175.00 and takes about an hour. Caster Well Drilling is the preferred vendor.
Who owns these homes and where do they come from?
People from all walks of commerce. Our clientele are entrepreneurs, business executives, professionals at law, medicine, education and a smattering of affluent retired folks.
They come from Cleveland, Pittsburgh, Buffalo, Erie & Cincinatti and Columbus. The dominate clientele is Cleveland. It is 2-2.5 hours away by the time your tired of driving your here, so the Chautauqua County Lakes region makes for a great weekend getaway.
The typical vacation-home owner is 59 years old, earned $120,600 last year, and purchased a property that is 220 miles from their primary residence, but 34 percent were less than 100 miles and another 34 percent were 500 miles or more. Eight out 10 drive to their property, and half of vacation homes are located within the same state as the owner’s primary residence. Eighty-three percent of owners are married couples.
Why is a seller selling?
Sellers sell for primarily two reasons 1) They move up to a larger vacation home. 2) The most common reason is they never use it anymore or their preferred location to vacation changes.
Can I get a steal or forclosure?
You can get a better deal than what you may have anticipated. Keep in mind these homes are toys a very expensive toy but, a toy. Sellers don't have to sell anymore than you have to buy. Forclosures are unheard of in this market. All the homes sell maybe not for what the seller wants but, you as a purchaser can expect to pay a fair market value which as you look at homes you will educate yourself as to what "fair market" is.
Is there a better time of year to purchase than others?
Not really, prices do not fluctuate season to season. Inventory can take a traditional spike in the spring, summer and fall. The winter you tend to face less competition for a listing and if you like a place in the winter you'll love it in the summer.
Can I rent out my Chautauqua home, how much will I get?
Yes, rentals are a large part of the lake economy. Our company Real Estate Advantage Realty and a number of our competitors have fulltime employees who just handle rentals please refer to website www.richardlakefront.com for more information. Rental amounts are determined by location, size and number of people you can sleep. You can anticipate in season to get $800-$2,000 + per week for a Lakefront with dock. The average is $1,200.00. Off seson rentals are spottier but, a steadily growing market.
Weekly rentals are prohibited in R-1 districts in the town of Ellery. 4 to 5 areas in the town of Ellery do allow weekly rentals with a permit.
If you want to rent your property we will be happy to help you once we have a specific property to talk about.
Rental service charges are available upon request.
The owners of weekly rental properties are required to provide their tenants with pillows, bedspreads, and mattress covers. Four Seasons Linen Rentals offers the weekly rental of bed linens and full-sized bath towels, hand towels, and washcloths for use in house or condo rentals where linens are not provided.
richardlakefront.com
What about 1031 Exchanges for a Chautauqua Lake Home?
No reason at all why you can't do it we've done numerous ones and can help you out.
1031 Do’s and Don’ts By Lorraine Stuart Merrill:
Section 1031 of the Internal Revenue Code contains serious tax benefits for property owners who qualify—and who plan before they leap into a sale. “Even though this is an old law, enacted by Congress in 1921, only a relatively small number of people utilize it,” notes Tom Torsney, senior vice president of TIMCOR Exchange Corporation, a national qualify¬ing intermediary. “With less tax to pay, more money can be reinvested into more valuable property. It’s one of the last great tax breaks,” Torsney declares. “It is a means of building wealth, using undiminished gains to reinvest into more valuable property.” A Section 1031 exchange is not a do¬it-yourself project. The IRS has rigid specifications, including the use of a qualifying intermediary (QI) to hold the property and money until the exchange is completed with acquisition and transfer of the replacement property. Consult with a financial planner or tax accountant, and find a reputable professional QI before you sell. Follow these basic rules for
1031 exchanges. DO:
Plan ahead to meet all requirements of Section 1031.
Establish a rental history for vacation home property. The IRS has not set a firm rule, but attorney Richard Lipton, tax partner with Baker & McKenzie in Chicago, advises a minimum two years of rental his¬tory, prefers five years.
Report change of use from personal to rental/investment to IRS by filing return showing rental income, expenses. “The biggest trap taxpayers fall into is to not establish a paper trail,” advises Scott Saunders, senior vice president of Asset Preservation, Inc.
Secure the services and advice of a rep¬utable and knowledgeable attorney, tax accountant, and qualified intermediary.
Make sure a reputable qualified inter¬mediary holds all funds and title until the exchange is completed.
Identify replacement property within 45 days of date of transfer of property being relinquished in an exchange.
Have the replacement property transferred to exactly the same ownership as the relin¬quished property.
Complete the exchange within 180 days of transfer of relinquished property.
DO NOT:
Use a home for personal use more than 14 days a year, or ten percent of annual total occupied days, for at least one year. Two or more may be safer.
Select replacement property of lesser value than the relinquished property, unless prepared to pay taxes on the ‘boot’ or difference in value.
Allow a relative or personal agent such as attorney, realtor, or accountant to act as the intermediary, because IRS will not qualify such an agent as independent.
Take control of proceeds from relinquished property or title of acquired property at any point before the exchange is completed.
Use 1031 exchanges for ‘flipping’ rental properties. Property held primarily for sale, vs. investment, does not qualify, warns Jon Christianson, vice president and general counsel for Asset Preservation, Inc.
Wait for an audit to try to establish investment or rental use of exchange property.
How far is to Holiday Valley, Peak N Peak and Cockaigne?
40 minutes to the Peak www.pknpk.com and 45 minutes to Holiday Valley www.holidayvalley.com and Holimont www.holimont.com from the Rte. 394/86 interchange. Cockaigne www.cockaigne.com is about 15-30 minutes from Chautauqua Lake.
Which makes a home on Chautauqua Lake ideal for year round enjoyment.
What about weeds?
Weeds are being addressed on many fronts by private and goverment agencies. It is an indepth subject with many view points. Our experience as Realtors over the past 17 years of being associated with the lake is that there are many good people working hard to address the weeds and other quality of life issues that affect the lake and local economy. The subject is much to broad to cover on this page. Please refer to www.chautauqualake.org , www.chautauquawatershed.org
Also the local newspaper has archived articles on the subject.
www.post-journal.com
I will say that the economic impact Chautauqua Lake "The Golden Egg" has on the local economy is enormous and getting bigger. The tourist dollars and real estate taxes generated are in the millions upon millions of dollars. It serves everybody to have the lake as healthy a recreational area as possible.
The WEEDERS DIGEST www.weedersdigest.com
was developed for the benefit of our friends and neighbors who cherish one of the greatest natural resources that we have or ever will be given and are seeking new and innovative ways to address problematic aquatic plant issues such as milfoil, hydrilla, curly leaf pond weed and sediment or lake muck removal. We are also researching new invasive issues such as snails and zebra mussels.
Our products offer much more than just lake rakes, under water weed cutters, and lake muck removal tools. We provide resources and education to arm the lakeshore owner with better techniques and alternatives to potentially harmful chemicals.
How is the Fishing?
Great! Chautauqua Lake is known for being one of the finest fishing lakes for certain species in the Northeast and country.
Please click on Community Info/Links and scroll down to Fishing for complete info.
Do you fish?
No. We boat my wife would never allow a live or dead fish on our boat. We talk a good fish so, feel free to regale us with your stories.
How is the Golfing?
We were voted by Golf Digest:
The Best Little Golf Town in America !
It is said that you can play 30 days straight within a 1 hour radius of Jamestown and never repeat the same course. Please click on the CommunityInfo/Links and scroll to Golf for more info.
Also check out www.wnygolfcourses.com for more info on courses and round fees.
Also visit www.sotiergolf.com
Are the roads around the lake plowed in the winter?
The public roads are very well maintained in the winter. The towns and state have had centuries to perfect their skills. They are prepared for snow! Private roads are a case by case basis. Most are plowed by a resident or a formal or informal association of neighbors. If you want a driveway plowed there are countless people who will do that for you for a very reasonable fee. Ask us for referrals.
Can I hire people to maintain my home?
Yes! Anything you want done there are numerous competent people to do it for you.
How is the crime around the lake?
There is none. Other than an occasional drug bust, D or BWI it is a very safe quiet area.
I heard there are products on the market that will notify me via phone if there is a problem with my vacation home?
Yes there is. These products will monitor Temperature, Humidity, Water leaks, Intrusion, Smoke and Power failure etc. Some will even let you set the temperature in the home by your cell phone before you arrive. Check out:
www.sensaphone.com
www.protectedhome.com
www.ehomewatch.com
Locally Michael Elf of Brinks Home Security 716-681-4100 or 866-9044 does a good job with vacation home security systems.
Do I need Flood Insurance for my lake home?
No you don't your lender may require it but, no state, local regulation, law or mandate does.
Please click on Buyer/Seller Info to the left on the home page and click on the Buyer Sign we have indepth information for you.
How many marinas are there?
Approx: Eight. Seven that do sales, repairs & dockage. Smith Boys and Holiday Harbor are the biggest. Long Point State Park just sells gas, supplies and boat slips. Please click on Community Info/links and scroll down to Marinas & Boating for more detailed information.
Long Point State Park: nysparks.state.ny.us
What does dock space cost at a marina?
You can expect to pay around $20.00 per foot. Additional services such as winterizing, cleaning, winter storage, shrink wrap are all extras and generally priced on the length/size of the boat.
Where can I purchase an aluminum or wooden dock and boat lift?
The two places the majority of owners go are:
Chautauqua Ironworks 5239 West lake Road Mayville, NY 14757. They carry Metal Craft Docks and RGC Boat lifts. They also manufacture aluminum dock stantions as well as black pipe and galvanized, all of which take wood dock sections for the decking.
716-753-3163 Fax: 716-753-7018
In Randolph, NY about 15 miles east of the lake is www.alumidock.com
Plus if you look at www.2ndhome.net you can find numerous advertisments for docks and lifts from manufactures around the world.
Are there public boat ramps?
Yes. Almost every town has one or more public boat ramps.
Is there winter storage available for my boat?
Yes. The marinas can handle your boat bow to stearn. There are also building and barn owners who store boats for the winter. Costs are generally determined by length of boat and services desired. We dock at Boat Works Marina. We do nothing with our boat except get on it in May and off it in September/October. They take very good care of us for a reasonable cost. Before the Marina we stored the boat in an Amish barn for $150.00 for 6 months then he decided to turn it into a sawmill. (That was a sweet deal we still cry about it).
How big a boat can I put on the lake?
As big as your pocket book and ego can afford. I would guess most boats on the lake are between 20-25ft. Pontoon boats are very popular.
Can I rent a Boat or Jet Ski?
Yes you can: Contact www.chautauquamarina.com
When can I put my dock in?
As soon as you can stand the cold water. You can also hire it to be done.
When do I have to take it out?
General understanding is by November 1st.
What do you do around here for fun?
Please click on the "Community Info/Links" button on our home page and everything you want to do is on it.
What is the Chautauqua Institution?
A fantastic place to spend a day, a week, a month or the 9 week summer season. Also a good place to invest in Real Estate.
Please click on the "Community Info/Links button on our home page and scroll down to Chautauqua Institution for a complete guide or click on www.chautauqua-inst.org for answers to the most asked questions.
The Chautauqua Institution is a not-for-profit, 750-acre educational center beside Chautauqua Lake in southwestern New York State, where approximately 7,500 persons are in residence on any day during a nine-week season, and a total of over 142,000 attend scheduled public events. Over 8,000 students enroll annually in the Chautauqua Summer Schools which offer courses in art, music, dance, theater, writing skills and a wide variety of special interests.
The Institution, originally the Chautauqua Lake Sunday School Assembly, was founded in 1874 as an educational experiment in out-of-school, vacation learning. It was successful and broadened almost immediately beyond courses for Sunday school teachers to include academic subjects, music, art and physical education.
While founders Lewis Miller and John Heyl Vincent were Methodists, other Protestant denominations participated from the first year onward, and today Chautauqua continues to be ecumenical in spirit and practice. Chautauqua's Department of Religion presents distinguished religious leaders of many faiths from this country and abroad, both as preachers and teachers.
The oldest continuous book club in America, the Chautauqua Literary and Scientific Circle (CLSC), has enrolled at least a half-million readers and at one time sponsored 10,000 reading circles throughout the country. The CLSC introduced learning by correspondence even before the School of Theology and Chautauqua University developed such courses. Its book selections are offered today with continuing education emphases. Chautauqua University functioned for approximately 12 years until other universities began offering summer courses. New York University conducted summer courses at Chautauqua for approximately 30 years, ending in the early 1950s, followed by Syracuse University and SUNY College at Fredonia. Now a wide variety of special studies attract vacationing Chautauquans.
By 1880 the Chautauqua platform had established itself as a national forum for open discussion of public issues, international relations, literature and science. Approximately 100 lecturers appear at Chautauqua during a season.
Music became increasingly important at Chautauqua, especially after the turn of the century. A symphony orchestra season became part of the regular program in 1920. The Chautauqua Symphony Orchestra, founded in 1929, now performs thrice weekly with leading soloists in the 5,000-seat Amphitheater, Chautauqua's program center. Popular entertainers perform other evenings. The Chautauqua Ballet Company also appears in the Amphitheater, sometimes with guest artists, while the Chautauqua Conservatory Theater presents its season in Bratton Theater. The Chautauqua Opera Company, also founded in 1929, performs in English in Norton Hall.
Chautauqua plays a unique educational role today, offering studies on a vacation level, a more serious level and a professional level. In addition, there are enhanced learning opportunities within Chautauqua's other programming. Music, the arts, religion, recreation and the pursuit of knowledge are all available. Younger and older students often share learning experiences in an open, congenial atmosphere. Children and young people are also provided with their own special programs.
The Chautauqua Institution is governed by a 24-member board of trustees, four of whom are elected by property owners. The board establishes the policies and direction of the Institution, electing the officers who are responsible for the operation of the Institution. Smith Memorial Library and the Chautauqua Institution Archives are open year round. Between-season conferences are held at Bellinger Hall, the Athenaeum Hotel and other facilities on the grounds.
What fees are involved in owing a Chautauqua Institution property?
For 2007:
The service fee per $1,000 of appraised value is $1.23 per K
Trash is $168.00 per year
If you rent out the home for a week or more during the 9 week season the charge is $15.00 per bed.
As of January 1, 2007 a Chautauqua Institution capital improvements service charge will be imposed on the sale of any property at a rate of 2% of the taxable consideration reported on New York form TP-584. The charge is due upon closing with one-half (1%) paid by the seller and one-half (1%) paid by the purchaser on the sale of any Institution property.
Parking and gate fees can be found at www.chautauqua-inst.org
Is Bemus Point the middle of the lake?
I don't know if it is the geographic middle. But, it is the activity and fun middle. All boats and all roads around Chautauqua Lake eventualy lead to Bemus Point.
What is the floating stage?
The Italian Fisherman Restaurant in Bemus Point has a large stage that floats. From Memorial day thru Labor Day they host weekly concerts of all types that can be viewed from land or boat.
Is the Casino really a gambling casino?
No. It is a restaurant in Bemus Point that can be accessed from land or boat. If you do want to gamble the Seneca Nation Casino is right off Rte 86 about 30 minutes from Bemus Point. www.senecaalleganycasino.com
Are there public docks in Bemus, Mayville, Lakewood?
Yes, in Bemus Point they are located to the north or left of the Casino viewing the Casino from the lake. In Mayville they are outside the Watermark restaurant. Lakewood does not have public docks but, is rumored to be putting in public docks off Packard Park at the foot of Chautauqua Ave.
Can you swim in the lake?
If you know how I don't see why not. There are a number of good places to anchor your boat and go swimming around the lake where the water is 3-4 feet deep so you can relax and the kids can have fun. You'll hear some of these places referred to as "Sandy Bottom" the name implies what they are.
How is the water quality?
You can check it out daily on
www.co.chautauqua.ny.us
How is Long Point State Park?
Long Point, which juts peninsula-like into Lake Chautauqua, is one of the moraines left long ago by a retreating glacier. The park and marina comprise a day-use area with thickly-wooded areas of beech, maple, spruce, poplar and oak. The park's boat launch is the most modern on Lake Chautauqua, which, at 1,308 feet above sea level, is one of the highest navigable bodies of water in North America. The lake has a plentiful supply of bass, perch, pike and other types of fish, but fishermen come to Chautauqua to fish for muskellunge. Muskellunge, or muskie, are native to the lake, noted for their size--often more than 30 inches long (in fact they must be at least 40" to keep) -- and their "fight." In winter, visitors can cross-country ski, snowmobile or fish.
nysparks.state.ny.us
How far is Alleghany State Park?
Allegheny Reservoir. 30 1/2 miles long . Fishing, Campsites with and without electric hookup, Showers, Restrooms, Drinking Water, Sanitary Dump Station, Picnic/Day Use, Launch Ramps (small fee may apply). One of the most scenic lakes in the Alleghenies. It runs from about Salamanca, New York southwest to Pennsylvania into the Allegheny State Forest. Several campsites are located primarily on the Pennsylvania side. Kinzua Point Information center is also located in PA. Located in the southwestern section of New York along New York State Route 280 and Pennsylvania State Route 321.
It is about 30-40 minutes away on Rte 86 depending on where you are coming from around the lake.
With 65,000 acres, Allegany State Park is the largest park in the New York State Park System. The Park is open year 'round with a multitude of activities for every season and every taste.
The park offers 18 hiking trails, 3 of which have
been developed as self-guided nature trails. Or bike along
the 5.6 miles of paved trails which includes 3.1 miles around Red House Lake. One of the most spectacular places to see Autumn at its best is Allegany State Park. Drive, hike, bike or horseback ride through the park on its many roads or trails. You will be delighted you made the trip!
You can enjoy most winter sports right here...
cross-country ski or snowshoe on the 35+ miles of trails at the Art Roscoe Recreation Area. Rentals are available at the Summit Mountain Shop. Snowmobile on the groomed trails that double as horseback riding trails in the summer.
Enjoy the activity of your choice while you visit for the day or longer...
Multi-use trails wind their way around the hills, valleys,
meadows, forests and lakes...
Campsites, cabins and cottages are available
for rental...
Whatever you choose, you will be pleased you came!
Can I ride my snowmobile on the roads?
If you see a green sign with a white snowmobile on it you can ride. There are hundreds of miles of roads and trails. It is estimated that Chautauqua County generates 19-20 million $'s per season in snowmobiling and that figure is growing. Please go to our Community info/link and scroll down to Snowmobiles for more information on trails, clubs etc.
Do you get a lot of snow?
Yes, Yes we do. According to the Chautauqua County Division of Transportation, the county averages 203 inches of snow a year. Mayville, NY averages 230 inches. For comparison Buffalo averages 93.6 inches and # 1 in the country is Blue Canyon, Calif. with 240 inches. Chautauqua County has had a number of years in the past 10 years that have been mild winters but, 2002 & 2003/04 we received a lot of snow. Great for snowmobiling, skiing, ice fishing, cross country skiing. 2005/06 Not so much. 2007 was long and snowy after January.
If you enjoy plowing and shoveling snow you would have been in seventh heaven.
Do you have an airport?
Chautuaqua County Airport a tower controlled airport capable of handling a small jet is located in the town of Ellicott off West Oak Hill Road. It is serviced daily by a commuter line.
Dart airport in Dewittville outside of Mayville is a grass strip for recreational pilots.
Where can I eat?
There is an abundance of good places to eat and the competition is fierce. Check out www.chautauqua-dining.com for an overview. Or ask us we love to eat out and have eaten pretty much everywhere.
What is the Summer Wind?
A dinner/lunch/special ocassion charter cruise that does multiple daily tours of the lake. We have been on it a number of times, good food, spirits and music. www.summerwind.com or on our homepage click on the Summer Wind icon.
How big is Chautauqua Lake?
The mean elevation is 1,308 feet and the lake has an area of about 20 square miles. The distance from Celoron to Mayville is 14.7 miles. From the boat landing at Jamestown through the Chadakoin River (known locally as the outlet) to Mayville is 17.7 miles. The width varies from about 1000 feet at the Bemus Point-Stow ferry to two miles wide at three places. The upper, northern end of the lake is the deepest section from 20 up to 75 feet in the Long Point- Maple Springs area. The lower lake runs from 30 feet deep near Bemus Point to less than 10 feet near Celoron. The lake has approximately 45 miles of shoreline.
If 10ft doesn't seem like much. I said that to an old timer years ago, and his reply was, "its over my head".
What does the name Chautauqua mean?
It is a Senca Indian name. From above, the lake does resemble a long bag tied in the middle, and that is now the favored translation of Chautauqua. See our homepage for more information on " The History of Chautauqua".
What about Bear, Cassadaga, Erie & Findley Lake?
Very nice lakes which we service. Bear, Cassadaga & Findley are considerably smaller. They are about the size of a bay on Chautauqua Lake. Erie is and inland ocean and has a lot of cliffs on the NY side, incredible views and sunsets. Docks are impossible to put out and the roughness of the water can make small boat usage difficult. Homes on all those lakes on average are less expensive than Chautauqua they also don't have the market or appreciation Chautauqua Lake has. ALL the homes sell. Findley has seen some good appreciation over the past few years driven primarily from its proximity to Peek' N Peak. Findley is also a private lake owned by the Findley Lake Homeowners Association. No public access is allowed on the lake on weekends.
Lake Erie has been "discovered" in 2006 we and other brokerages are seeing an increase in activity and prices for home and land sales plus quite a few calls for vineyards. Over 20,000 vineyard acres make the southeastern shores of Lake Erie the largest grape growing region in the United States outside of California. www.newyorkwines.org
What about Churches?
Chautauqua County is noted for its variety of denominations click on this link for a list:
www.switchboard.com
Is Lake Chautauqua and Chautauqua County serviced by broadband (internet)?
Yes, both DSL and Road Runner Cable are available from Time Warner and Windstream some rural areas are serviced by one or the other most locations on or around the lake have both to choose from. Plus satellite is available.
I want to furnish my vacation home can I do it locally?
Yes, Jamestown, NY use to be known for its furniture manufacturing those days have gone south or overseas but, the retail remains. Crawford Furniture makes some mid to high end wood furniture plus there are numerous furniture retailers serving all price points throughout the county. When the time comes let us know and we will direct you to the stores.
Who do I call for Utilities?
National Fuel for gas 1-800-365-3264
National Grid for electric 1-800-932-0301
Certain areas on the south end of the lake are serviced by Jamestown City Electric (some of the least expensive electric in the country) 716-661-1660
Mayville and Westfield have there own electric service 716-326-4961 or 326-2145
Some good articles on Buying and Maintaining a Lake Home
How to Maintain Your Lake Home / By: Kenyon Blunt
Winterizing a Lake Home / By: Kenyon Blunt
3 Tax Breaks for Lake Homes / By: Kenyon Blunt
How to Make Money Renting Vacation Homes / By: Jeff Smith
8 Seldom-Used but Highly Effective Financing Options / By: Kenyon Blunt
Pooling Your Nickels – Buying a Lake Home with Family & Friends / By: Kenyon Blunt
Your Lake Home Loan – Demystified! / By: Debbie Wolfard
Financing a 2nd Home with a Second Mortgage or Refinance / By: Rebecca Oconnor
A 7-Step Formula for Finding the Right Lake Home / By: Kenyon Blunt
Top Things to Consider When Buying Lakeshore Property / By: Mike Wock and Harriette Wock
Getting a Good Deal on a Lake Home / By: Kenyon Blunt
Picking the Right Location / By: Kenyon Blunt
A Lake Home: Balancing Dreams with Real
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