Lake Sara; Effingham; recreation; fishing; boating; skiing; swimming; lake homes; lake property; lake house; real estate;
 
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Lake Sara, Effingham, IL
 
Lake Sara Maps and Details (click on this link for a map of Lake Sara)
Beautiful Lake Sara is located 3 miles Northwest of Effingham.  It offers a full range of water sports including; boating, fishing, skiing, swimming.  It offers nature areas for hiking. Boat rentals and public pavilions are available.  There are ample areas reserved for fishing and nature as well as boating and skiing. 
 
There are several lake homes along the shores of Lake Sara.  Many are full time residences and many are part-time residences.  The homes are somewhat unique for lake property in that many have boathouses at the waters edge that feature full kitchens and baths, and TV and eating areas, as well as swim and sun decks.  Such a feature puts you right at the lake versus several hundred feet away at a house up the hill.  The lake seldom freezes over in winter.  Most owners leave their boats in hoists at their boathouse...eliminating the need for boat storage. 
 
The lake covers about 800 acres, with 27 miles of wooded shoreline.  It has a maximum depth of about 50 feet. Fishing is popular practically all year round.  Typical fish species include large mouth bass, white bass, catfish, walleye, bluegill, red ear, crappie. 
 
There are many nice homes along the shores of Lake Sara and the market demand for Lake Sara properties has been very high.  There are typically about 20-25 homes that sell per year.  The prices range from $250,000 to $1M.  Price is generally dictated by water depth and view.  The second most promenint factor of price is the type and condition of boathouse.  Some are very simple and some are elaborate including baths, kitchens, swim decks, putting greens, etc.  The type of homes are greatly varied and each property is unique.
 
Lots are practically non-existent and we are experiencing a number of "tear downs".  That is where the Buyer buys a place and tears it down to build a new home.   
 
As with most lake properties, the lake side of the house is typically the front yard and the roadside is typically the back yard.  To truly appreciate a property it must be accessed via the lake.  Call me and we'll take a tour of the lake on my boat.  I live on Lake Sara and will be happy to provide you a tour.  CALL ME @  217-246-4663 ...or email me at terry@effinghamhomes.com, or click on the contact us portion of this website.  I look forward to serving you.
 
Below is additonal information and maps for you to review.
 
Lake Sara
Effingham, Illinois

Beautiful northern-style lake with 27 miles of wooded shoreline containing residential lots. Waterskiing, fishing, swimming, motor boating, a golf course, beach, trails, and camping are all available at the lake. Lake Sara is located approximately 3 miles northwest of Effingham off Route 32. Lake Sara is located 3 hours south of Chicago on I57/I70. 
 

Frequently Asked Lake Questions
Jet Skis: Are they permitted? As of (July 2009) Jet Skis are not currently allowed on Lake Sara.
Swimming: Can you swim in the lake? Yes
What is the water quality? High. Lake water is tested annually by the Effingham Health Dept and has an "excellent water rating".
Water Level:
Average water level variance? 2-3 ft with average water level of 588'
Boat Docks: Are they permitted? Yes. Framework and sea walls are normally permanent and steel.
Power Boats: Are they permitted? Yes, but no jet propulsion motors.
Depth of Lake:  50' deep with 800  surface acres of water
Nearby cities: Distance to nearby major cities?
Effingham 5 miles, St. Louis 100 miles, Indianapolis 142 miles, Chicago 211 miles
Nearest airport: Effingham-small airstrip for private planes. Mattoon is a small regional airport, Decatur & Champaign are small town airport for commercial flights.  St Louis adn Indy are International Airports.
Building restrictions and requirements:
Normal restrictions, permits required, established by Effingham Water Authority per neighborhood and varies from area to area.

 

Lake Map

 


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