Discover the heartwarming charm of Monticello, Indiana, where community spirit and Midwestern hospitality meet the picturesque beauty of Twin Lakes. This cozy city offers a welcoming retreat for those who appreciate the blend of small-town tranquility with vibrant local energy. Monticello invites you to explore its scenic landscapes, thanks to the shimmering waters of Lake Shafer and Lake Freeman, which promise countless opportunities for boating, fishing, and lakeside relaxation.
The city is brimming with engaging cultural events and outdoor adventures. Amidst its charming
streets, you’ll find a variety of unique shops, delightful eateries, and a lively downtown buzzing with friendly faces. Rich in history, Monticello is home to the historic White County Courthouse and the delightful Madam Carroll, Indiana’s largest dinner boat, which cruise visitors and residents alike can enjoy on leisurely sunset rides.
Get inspired by the close-knit community, where annual
Embrace Community Spirit in Monticello,
4 | HelloMonticello, Indiana • Fall Issue
Hello Monticello, Indiana • Fall Issue |5
Embrace Community Spirit in Monticello,
festivals, like the Spirit of Monticello Festival, bring residents together in celebration. Whether you're drawn by its natural beauty or its welcoming warmth, Monticello is a place where lasting memories and lifelong friendships are effortlessly
fostered—making it an ideal place to call home.
Embrace Community Spirit in Monticello, Indiana
Discover the heartwarming charm of Monticello, Indiana, where community spirit and Midwestern hospitality meet the picturesque beauty of Twin Lakes. This cozy city offers a welcoming retreat for those who appreciate the blend of small-town tranquility with vibrant local energy. Monticello invites you to explore its scenic landscapes, thanks to the shimmering waters of Lake Shafer and Lake Freeman, which promise countless opportunities for boating, fishing, and lakeside relaxation.
The city is brimming with engaging cultural events and outdoor adventures. Amidst its charming streets, you’ll find a variety of unique shops, delightful eateries, and a lively downtown buzzing with friendly faces. Rich in history, Monticello is home to the historic White County Courthouse and the delightful Madam Carroll, Indiana’s largest dinner boat, which cruise visitors and residents alike can enjoy on leisurely sunset rides.
Get inspired by the close-knit community, where annual festivals, like the Spirit of Monticello Festival, bring residents together in celebration. Whether you're drawn by its natural beauty or its welcoming warmth, Monticello is a place where lasting memories and lifelong friendships are effortlessly fostered—making it an ideal place to call home.
Myth vs. Fact about lakefront living
Many people dream of owning a home on the lake. The idea of waking up to water views, fishing off the dock, and watching sunsets from the deck carries a certain magic. But lakefront living is often more complex than people imagine, especially on popular Indiana lakes like Lake Shafer and Lake Freeman.
Expectations do not always match reality, and knowing the difference between myth and fact helps buyers make better choices.One common belief is that lakefront homes are always private and peaceful. In truth, these lakes are active destinations, especially in summer months. Boats, jet skis, and
6 | HelloMonticello, Indiana • Fall Issue
Myth vs. Fact about lakefront living
Many people dream of owning a home on the lake. The idea of waking up to water views, fishing off the dock, and watching sunsets from the deck carries a certain magic. But lakefront living is often more complex than people imagine, especially on popular Indiana lakes like Lake Shafer and Lake Freeman. Expectations do not always match reality, and knowing the difference between myth and fact helps buyers make better choices. One common belief is that lakefront homes are always private and peaceful. In truth, these lakes are active destinations, especially in summer months. Boats, jet skis, and pontoons can fill the water from morning until night. Around certain coves and channels, the noise can surprise new homeowners who thought they were moving into a quiet retreat. The level of activity depends heavily on location. Some stretches of shoreline are lively and social, while others remain calm and more secluded. Asking about traffic patterns on different parts of the lake is just as important as asking about square footage or number of bedrooms. Another myth is that every property with water access is perfect for swimming and recreation. Not all shoreline is the same. Some areas are shallow, rocky, or weedy, which can make swimming less enjoyable. Other spots offer deep water that is better suited for boating. Buyers should think carefully about what kind of activities matter most to them. A family that wants to fish may look for different conditions than a family that plans to spend weekends tubing. It is also easy to assume that lake homes hold their value in the same way. Location again plays a big role. A house on a quiet cove with a wide view may attract a different kind of buyer than a home on a narrow channel. Properties close to marinas or public access points may see more turnover because of higher activity. Long-term value is tied to how well the property matches what lake buyers are looking for, not just to its waterfront address. Many buyers believe lakefront properties always come with plenty of land. In fact, lot sizes vary widely. Some homes sit on deep, wooded lots that feel private, while others are close together with only a small strip of shoreline. If space and privacy matter, it is important to understand how far neighbors are and what kind of setback rules apply. A common surprise is how much upkeep is involved in lakefront living. Docks and seawalls require maintenance, and exposure to water can affect siding, decks, and landscaping. Seasonal considerations add another layer. In winter, docks may need to be pulled out or protected from ice damage. In spring and summer, lawns and trees grow quickly in the moist environment. Lake homes offer beautiful surroundings, but they come with more ongoing care than many buyers expect. Some people imagine that living on the lake means unrestricted use of the shoreline. In reality, Indiana has regulations about water rights and easements. Homeowners may need permits to build docks or to make shoreline changes. Homeowners’ associations or lake management groups may also set rules about boat lifts, seawalls, or even landscaping near the water. Understanding these limits up front prevents disappointment later. Finally, there is the myth that lakefront living is only for vacationers. Many families on Lake Shafer and Lake Freeman live year-round in their homes. The lakes support full communities with schools, businesses, and year-round activities. What feels like a vacation spot to some is a permanent neighborhood to others. Buyers should think about whether they want a seasonal retreat or a full-time residence, and then look for properties that fit that lifestyle.
Bart Hickman
secluded. Asking about traffic patterns on different parts of the lake is just as important as asking about square footage or number of bedrooms.Another myth is that every property with water access is perfect for swimming and recreation. Not all shoreline is the same. Some areas are shallow, rocky, or weedy, which can make swimming less enjoyable. Other spots offer deep water that is better suited for boating. Buyers should think carefully about what kind of activities matter most to them. A family that wants to fish may look for different conditions than a family that plans to spend weekends tubing.It is also easy to assume...
pontoons can fill the water from morning until night. Around certain coves and channels, the noise can surprise new homeowners who thought they were moving into a quiet retreat. The level of activity depends heavily on location. Some stretches of shoreline are lively and social, while others remain calm and more
On Lake Shafer and Lake Freeman, location on the shoreline makes as much difference as the home itself.
About the Author
Bart Hickman, a lifelong Monticello resident, has led in real estate sales since 2008, offering deep local expertise and genuine passion for the area’s lakes and lifestyle.
HelloMonticello, Indiana • Fall Issue |7
Seasonal tip for buying on Lake Shafer or Lake Freeman
Buying a lakefront home in Monticello is a dream for many families, especially when it comes to Lake Shafer and Lake Freeman. These two lakes are known for their beauty, recreation, and strong communities. While most people picture touring homes in the height of summer, when the water is sparkling and
boats are out, that is not always the best time to shop. A serious buyer should consider looking in the spring or fall to get a truer sense of what owning a lake home will be like year-round.In the summer, properties are dressed in their best light. Lush greenery covers slopes, high water levels
8 | HelloMonticello, Indiana • Fall Issue
Seasonal tip for buying on Lake Shafer or Lake Freeman
Buying a lakefront home in Monticello is a dream for many families, especially when it comes to Lake Shafer and Lake Freeman. These two lakes are known for their beauty, recreation, and strong communities. While most people picture touring homes in the height of summer, when the water is sparkling and boats are out, that is not always the best time to shop. A serious buyer should consider looking in the spring or fall to get a truer sense of what owning a lake home will be like year-round.
In the summer, properties are dressed in their best light. Lush greenery covers slopes, high water levels hide shoreline wear, and the activity on the water can be exciting. What you might not see are the details that will matter most when it comes to long-term ownership. That is why off-season touring often provides a more realistic perspective.
Spring, for example, is when runoff and rain show how well a property handles water. Drainage patterns become obvious, and you can see if rainwater is collecting near the foundation or flowing toward the shoreline. You also get a clear view of whether landscaping has been planned to protect against erosion or if the soil is washing away with each storm. These issues can be easy to miss on a sunny July afternoon but are crucial for understanding the true upkeep of a lakefront lot.
Fall brings its own advantages. As lake levels shift, you may notice areas where a seawall is weakened or where the shoreline has started to slump. Vegetation begins to die back, uncovering portions of the property that were hidden in the summer. If there are mature trees, you will see how much leaf cleanup might be required and whether falling branches are a hazard. Cooler months also quiet the activity on the lakes, giving you a chance to judge what the property feels like outside the busy season. Touring a lakefront home in spring or fall can reveal details about the property that summer often hides.
Beyond the physical condition of the lot, the timing of your search also affects the buying process itself. In summer, competition is high because demand peaks when everyone is vacationing. In the off-season, sellers may be more open to negotiation, and buyers face fewer bidding wars. Touring at different times of the year can provide a balance between market opportunity and property awareness.
For Lake Shafer and Lake Freeman in particular, off-season visits can highlight how different one shoreline is from another. Some areas experience stronger currents and more erosion, while others have calmer water that holds the shoreline more securely. If you only view properties in the summer, you may not notice these seasonal differences that can affect long-term costs and enjoyment.
Owning a home on either of these lakes is a long-term investment, and the timing of your search can make a significant difference. While summer may be the most enjoyable season to visit, spring and fall often give the clearest look at what maintenance and upkeep will truly require. Buyers who keep this in mind are more likely to make a confident decision about their lakefront purchase.
Bart Hickman
handles water. Drainage patterns become obvious, and you can see if rainwater is collecting near the foundation or flowing toward the shoreline. You also get a clear view of whether landscaping has been planned to protect against erosion or if the soil is washing away with each storm. These issues can be easy to miss on a sunny July afternoon but are crucial for understanding the true upkeep of a lakefront lot.Fall brings its own advantages. As lake levels shift, you may notice areas where a seawall is weakened or where the shoreline has started to slump. Vegetation begins to die back, uncovering portions of the property that wer...
hide shoreline wear, and the activity on the water can be exciting. What you might not see are the details that will matter most when it comes to long-term ownership. That is why off-season touring often provides a more realistic perspective.Spring, for example, is when runoff and rain show how well a property
Touring a lakefront home in spring or fall can reveal details about the property that summer often hides.
About the Author
Bart Hickman, a lifelong Monticello resident, has led in real estate sales since 2008, offering deep local expertise and genuine passion for the area’s lakes and lifestyle.
