From the Lakes of Detroit to the Shores of Oconomowoc: Why Our Family Made the Move — and Why It Just Made Sense

There’s something magical about living near the water. Whether it's the tranquil morning stillness or the sparkle of the sun reflecting off the lake at golden hour, lake life has always held a special place in my heart. It’s more than just a view — it’s a lifestyle. After years of helping clients find their dream homes in Michigan, I naturally began to help more and more clients looking for homes with waterfront views.  I realized that the next chapter for my own family needed to involve water, too — but with a new horizon.

That’s how we found ourselves transitioning from the lake areas of Detroit to the beautiful, welcoming lake communities of Oconomowoc, Wisconsin.  “Oconomowoc” means ‘where the waters meet’.

At first glance, the move might seem like a big leap. After all, we had roots in Michigan — close to my daughter’s family, professional network, and years of community involvement. But as we explored Oconomowoc more deeply as we've watched it grow, we quickly realized that this was not only the right move for our family, but also the best one. The combination of thriving real estate opportunities, family-friendly amenities, and a vibrant lifestyle on and around the lakes made it a no-brainer. 

Here are just a few examples.

Oconomowoc is a place built for families. One of the biggest reasons we chose to make the move to Oconomowoc was for our family. As a mom, creating a supportive and enriching environment for my child is always at the top of my mind. Oconomowoc offers just that — and more.

The lake lifestyle here is incredibly family-friendly. From our paddleboarding and boating in the summer to lakeside ice skating and holiday festivals in the winter, there is no shortage of wholesome activities for kids of all ages. The school districts are strong, with a commitment to community involvement and student growth. Parks, trails, and family-owned businesses thrive here, giving us the feeling of being both grounded in nature and connected to a supportive small-town atmosphere.

What truly sealed the deal, though, was how community-oriented the area feels. It’s the kind of place where neighbors say hello, kids ride their bikes to the ice cream shop, and families gather for Fourth of July parades and Friday Fish Fry.  It was exactly what we were looking for — a chance to slow down and savor life together.

As a real estate professional, I couldn't help but notice the strength and opportunity in the Oconomowoc housing market.  I've watched this market for over 20 years; I graduated from LCLHS in 2007.  New developments are thriving, and lakefront properties are seeing consistent appreciation. This area has become a desirable destination not only for Wisconsin natives but also for out-of-state buyers looking for peaceful retreats, vacation homes, or a quieter place to raise their families.

For those of us in real estate, that’s a powerful combination: high demand, sustainable growth, and a community that continues to invest in its infrastructure and future. Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer, a growing family, or someone looking for that dream home by the water, Oconomowoc has something to offer.

The exciting part for me, both personally and professionally, is watching how the area is evolving. New construction homes are being built with families in mind — open floor plans, outdoor living spaces, and modern features — all while retaining the charm of lake living. There’s something incredibly rewarding about helping people see that they can build the life they want here.

If you know me, you know I have a soft spot for waterfront properties. Over the past four years, it’s no coincidence that the majority of my clients who found me were specifically looking for lakefront homes. Some came with a dream of sunset views. Others envisioned launching a kayak from their backyard. Some simply wanted to sip coffee by the water each morning.

Helping people find their perfect spot on the water — whether it's on a bustling lake with lots of activity or a quieter inlet ideal for reflection — became one of my favorite parts of the job. It’s not just about buying a house. It’s about finding a lifestyle that brings people joy. And it’s deeply personal, for both my clients and for me.

When it came time for my own family to take that next step, I knew our next home had to be on or near the water. It was more than a preference; it was a way of life we all wanted to embrace together.

Making a move like this — is never easy. But it becomes a whole lot more exciting when you’re surrounded by a loving and supportive family!

From the moment we started discussing the idea, my family rallied around the vision. They believed in the opportunities we’d find in Oconomowoc, for my real estate business and personal growth, too. It wasn’t just a change of scenery — it was an expansion of possibility.

Having their support made all the difference. It gave me the confidence to take bold steps, to bring my business to a new market, and to deepen my focus on what I love most: helping families find their dream homes on the water.

That support system is something I carry with me into every client relationship. I know how meaningful it is to feel heard, understood, and backed by people who care. And that’s exactly the experience I strive to create for the families I work with.

Real estate didn’t just make this move easier — it made it feel like destiny. The flexibility to work from anywhere, the thrill of helping people find their forever homes, and the insight into market trends gave me a unique advantage when planning our family’s relocation.

I knew what to look for, what to avoid, and how to navigate the process seamlessly. I knew how to identify neighborhoods that would fit our lifestyle and where future growth would bring lasting value. That’s the kind of knowledge and insight I now get to share with new clients who are considering Oconomowoc as their next home.

Whether you're coming from out of state or moving across town, I’m here not just as an agent, but as someone who’s walked the path — someone who knows how big a life change this can be and how beautiful the outcome can look.

Our family’s move to Oconomowoc represents more than just a change of address. It’s a fresh chapter, filled with possibility, community, and the calm presence of water all around us.

It’s a reminder that home isn’t just where you live — it’s how you live.

Helping others find that same sense of home, especially near the water, is my passion. It has shaped my real estate career and continues to drive me each day.  And now, rooted in a community we love, surrounded by lakes that inspire us, and supported by a family that believes in the journey — I can’t wait to help more families discover what’s waiting for them on the shores of Oconomowoc and Lake County, at large.

If you’re considering a move to Lake Country, Wisconsin — whether it’s for the lifestyle, the real estate opportunities, or the peaceful sense of belonging — I’d love to help you explore what Oconomowoc has to offer.

Let’s explore your horizon!  Together.

Embrace Your Horizon. Live Your Dream.