where to live in Palmyra area (Charlottesville, Lake Monticello: real estate, HOA, how much)

[smh07]

We are planning a relo to the Charlottesville area and have interest in the Palmyra area. We are retirees with 2 dogs and desire single level housing. Lake Monticello seems enormous with lots of varying types of property. Is this a desireable area with such a mix of values? Knowing this is a gated community is it possible to gain any access for a look-see? We also have researched some of the new communities in the area. We like the "new" plus some are on good sized land. Any comments if this is a good possibility and close enough to c-ville to make sense. Lots to learn. Thanks for the help

[goldenage1]

"Knowing this is a gated community is it possible to gain any access for a look-see?"

I have been in touch with realtors Vicki Wilson, and Patsy Strong who sell in Lake Monticello. They both will send you
an information packet. If you google the term "Lake Monticello real estate" their site and other will come up. The packets arrived in a week and give me a good feel for the area.

As far as visiting, I think you have to be escorted by a realtor, or else claim to be visiting an open house. Vicki's firm has been running open houses on Sundays, so that might be a good excuse to just visit. However, I think you could get a low-pressure tour by making an appointment.

Best,
Naomi

[goldenage1]

"Lake Monticello seems enormous with lots of varying types of property. Is this a desireable area with such a mix of values? "

It looks terrific to me, but I haven't visited.

If you prefer a more expensive area, you might look at Keswick, which is also closer to C'ville. Yes, there are newer developments in Fluvanna,but they don't have the recreational amenities of Lake Monticello. It depends what you want.

Naomi

[jmarkd]

goldenage1,
Thanks for the great info on Lake Monticello. I am looking at a job at UVa and would not mind checking it out.
How is LM for the minivan-driving, little kids crowd? We are 30, wife stays at home with our 2.5 kids (#3 is due in October). Is the commute to C-ville bad?
How much is the HOA fee? the homes look nice and fairly affordable when compared to northern Va where we currently live.