A setting that is hard to match

Lake Thurmond - also known as Clarks Hill Lake - stretches for miles with quiet coves, sandy points, and wildlife. Buyers love the wide, scenic water views from back decks and screened porches, the gently rolling hills and mature pines, and the frequent sight of eagles over the water. It feels like a retreat without giving up the conveniences of a year-round community.

Variety of home styles and neighborhoods

• Lakefront homes with shoreline access or Corps-managed frontage for a dock-centric lifestyle.
• Golf-course homes along fairways in areas commonly known as Tara and Monticello.
• Interior homes that trade view premiums for privacy and value while staying close to amenities.
• New construction options from reputable local builders for modern layouts and efficiency.

Lots are generous and most streets are tree lined. Even interior addresses are only minutes to the water, golf, or recreation centers.

The lifestyle: active, welcoming, and relaxed

Residents often describe SLV as a place where it is easy to make friends again. Daily life can be as social or as quiet as you prefer.

• Golf, fitness, pools, pickleball, and tennis
• Hobby clubs for kayaking, hiking, art, cards, gardening, and more
• Community events, socials, and live music
• Marinas, trails, and shoreline recreation for year-round fun

Cost of living and value

Compared with many lake and golf communities across the Southeast, McCormick County offers strong value. Buyers appreciate low property taxes, reasonable association dues, and the fact that insurance and utilities are typically lower than coastal markets. You get a resort-style lifestyle without resort-level costs.

Choose the location that fits your lifestyle

• Lake proximity: Decide between direct waterfront access or a short cart ride to a marina or launch.
• Views: West-facing decks capture sunset color. Fairway frontage delivers open green vistas. Wooded lots offer shade and privacy.
• Amenities: Some buyers prefer walking distance to fitness, pools, or restaurants while others want a quiet cul-de-sac.

Tip: Tour at different times of day to sample morning calm, afternoon activity, and evening light across the water.

New construction vs resale homes

New construction offers energy efficiency and finish selection. Resale homes often feature mature landscaping, screened porches, and established street character. A local advisor can help compare total cost, build timelines, and resale trends by view type and neighborhood.

Important considerations before you buy

• Association and covenants: Understand the Property Owners Association structure, dues, and amenity access.
• Internet and utilities: High-speed fiber is widely available - ideal for remote work and streaming.
• Dock rights: Dock permitting is managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Verify whether a property has an existing permit or is eligible.
• Healthcare and access: Regional medical centers in Augusta, GA and Greenwood, SC are approximately an hour away.
• Financing a second home: If this will be a vacation or retirement home, ask about down payment, reserves, and rate differences for second homes.
• Seasonality: Inventory and buyer traffic can vary by season. Market reports help time your search and offers.

Life beyond the gates

Historic downtown McCormick has local shops, cafés, markets, galleries, and seasonal events. Hickory Knob State Park and the Sumter National Forest add hiking, biking, and camping. You are close to nature yet near city conveniences in Augusta.

Work with local experts who live the lifestyle

Buying in a lake and golf community is different from a traditional neighborhood. Local insight matters for dock rights, view premiums, and lifestyle fit. The Greene Advantage Real Estate team lives, works, and plays here - we match homes to how you want to live and guide you from tour to close.