Located in Polk County's "Lake Country," the communities of Winter Haven and Lake Wales are both located on geographic ridges and are surrounded by fresh-water lakes that provide . Polk County's 2,002 square miles include 550 lakes. Winter Haven is 146 feet above sea level. Its city limits touch or surround 23 lakes with a unique series of 14 lakes connected by navigable canals. Lake Wales --12 square miles in size with 10,027 residents-- is also located along the state's geographical ridge, a ridge that boasts the highest elevation in the peninsula portion of the state, 295 feet. This advantageous location gives Lake Wales a climate rich in sunshine, but without the humidity of the coastal area. In the valleys around Lake Wales, there are many clear lakes that furnish year-round recreational opportunities.
Winter Haven & Lake Wales, FL Real Estate Market: Prices of Local Homes for Sale
The real estate market in Winter Haven and Lake Wales is comprised of large, multi-story contemporary homes with acreage. In Winter Haven, condominiums and townhouses start at $59,000 and reach up to $275,000 and more. Properties with water access and lake views can be found from the mid to high end of this sale price range. Single-family homes begin at $45,000 to $1,000,000. Waterfront estates with can be purchased in the high end. In Lake Wales, condominiums start at $75,000 and reach up to $1,000,000. Sale prices of single-family homes start at $45,000 and reach up to $750,000 and more. Waterfront estates with lush landscaping can be purchased at the higher end of the price range. Land is available in both cities.
Winter Haven and Lake Wales Real Estate Stats and Trends for the week of December 10th, 2019: homes priced around $186,774 compared to $186,774 the previous week, to remain steady with no change in listing price. For Monday, December 9th, the current national mortgage rate for a 30 year fixed mortgage is 4.51%; the 15 year fixed rate is at 3.90%. For a loan larger than conventional conforming loans, or 'jumbo' loan, the 30 year rate is 4.41%, while the 15 year jumbo rate currently is at 4.12%.