A traditional log cabin with a private dock, peaceful lake views, and a covered porch is the kind of property many buyers imagine when looking for a quiet waterfront escape. In Bedford, Indiana, this home at 80 Dean Ct brings together rustic cabin character and direct access to the water.
Listed for $170,000, the property offers approximately 1,024 square feet of living space, two bedrooms, one bathroom, and a 0.55-acre lot. Built in 1998, it features authentic log construction, exposed beams, vaulted ceilings, and a striking stone wood-burning fireplace.
However, the appeal goes beyond its appearance. Its waterfront setting and community amenities make it worth a closer look, while the annual ownership costs and lake-related rules deserve careful consideration.
Property Overview
- Location: 80 Dean Ct, Bedford, Indiana 47421
- Asking Price: $170,000
- Property Type: Single-family log cabin
- Bedrooms: 2
- Bathrooms: 1
- Living Area: 1,024 square feet
- Lot Size: 0.55 acres
- Year Built: 1998
- Architectural Style: Log, Ranch, Rustic
- Stories: One
- Foundation: Crawl space
- Heating: Heat pump
- Cooling: Central air
- Water: Public water
- Fireplace: Stone, wood-burning
- HOA Fee: $325 annually
The listing reports approximately $166 per square foot. The property was listed for sale on October 30, 2026, at $170,000.
Authentic Log Cabin Character and Rustic Interior
One of the most appealing features of this home is its traditional log cabin construction. Rather than simply borrowing a rustic design style, the property features log materials that give it a distinctive cabin atmosphere.
Inside, exposed wooden beams and vaulted ceilings create an open feeling despite the relatively modest 1,024-square-foot floor plan. The living room measures approximately 18 by 20 feet, making it the largest room in the home.
A magnificent stone wood-burning fireplace serves as the central feature of the living area. It adds visual character and provides an alternative source of heat, although buyers should have the chimney and fireplace professionally inspected before relying on them.
The kitchen measures approximately 12 by 14 feet and includes an eat-in dining area. The layout is practical for a smaller home, while the natural wood finishes help maintain the property’s traditional cabin appearance.
Both bedrooms are located on the main level. The primary bedroom measures approximately 10 by 12 feet, while the second bedroom measures around 10 by 9 feet. A single full bathroom serves the home.
For buyers who prefer a compact, easy-to-manage property rather than a large house, the one-level layout may be an advantage.
Waterfront Setting With a Private Dock
The property’s location along Kenray Lake is arguably its strongest selling point.
The listing describes the home as being tucked along the shoreline, with lake and wooded views. A covered porch or deck provides an outdoor space where owners can enjoy the surrounding scenery.
A private dock is another important feature. Instead of having to travel elsewhere for access to the water, the property offers a direct connection to the lake.
The listing also identifies lake privileges, water access, and marina access within the community. These features may appeal to buyers interested in boating, spending time near the water, or simply enjoying a quieter setting.
However, buyers should confirm exactly what the private dock includes. It is important to establish whether the dock is owned with the property, whether it has the required approvals, and whether any restrictions apply to boating, swimming, fishing, or future improvements.
Outdoor Space and Community Amenities
The property sits on approximately 0.55 acres, with mature trees and a wooded setting. While it does not offer the extensive acreage found on some rural properties, its waterfront position gives the land a different kind of recreational value.
The HOA information identifies several community amenities, including:
- Beach access
- Boating
- Marina
- Nature area
These amenities could make the property more attractive to buyers who want access to lake-related activities without owning a large piece of land.
The community’s rules and availability of these facilities should be reviewed before purchase. Buyers should also confirm whether there are additional fees for marina use, boat storage, dock maintenance, or other services.
What Does It Cost to Own This Cabin?
At an asking price of $170,000, the property is listed at approximately $166 per square foot.
The listing reports an annual property tax amount of $1,758, based on the available listing information. It also reports an HOA fee of $325 per year, equivalent to approximately $27 per month.
These costs should be included when calculating the actual cost of ownership.
| Expense | Reported Amount |
|---|---|
| Asking price | $170,000 |
| Property taxes | $1,758 per year |
| HOA fee | $325 per year |
| HOA equivalent per month | About $27 |
The estimated monthly payment shown on Zillow is approximately $1,197. This is only an estimate and may not include every ownership expense. Actual mortgage payments will depend on the buyer’s down payment, interest rate, loan terms, insurance, and other costs.
Waterfront properties can also involve additional expenses. Buyers should investigate homeowners insurance, possible flood-related coverage, dock maintenance, shoreline upkeep, and any community assessments.
Important Things Buyers Should Check
Although the cabin has several attractive features, there are important details to investigate before making an offer.
1. Waterfront and Dock Rights
Confirm the legal boundaries of the property and the exact rights attached to the dock. Ask whether the dock has permits, whether it requires maintenance, and whether any lake authority or HOA restrictions apply.
2. HOA Rules and Fees
The reported annual HOA fee is $325. Buyers should request the latest HOA documents and check whether there are additional assessments, restrictions on property improvements, boating rules, or limitations on short-term rentals.
3. Fireplace and Log Construction
A wood-burning fireplace is an attractive feature, but it should be inspected by a qualified professional. The logs should also be checked for moisture damage, rot, insects, and signs of previous repairs.
4. Crawl Space and Moisture
Because the property has a crawl-space foundation and sits near the lake, buyers should pay particular attention to moisture conditions. A professional inspection should assess ventilation, drainage, wood deterioration, and any signs of water intrusion.
5. Water and Wastewater Systems
The listing identifies public water, but the wastewater arrangement is not clearly specified in the supplied details. Buyers should confirm whether the home uses public sewer or a private septic system and arrange the appropriate inspections.
6. Insurance and Flood Risk
A waterfront location can affect insurance costs and coverage requirements. Buyers should check the property’s flood-zone status, obtain insurance quotes, and understand any lender requirements before committing to the purchase.
Is This $170,000 Lakefront Cabin Worth Considering?
For buyers who value traditional log cabin architecture and direct lake access, this Bedford property offers an interesting combination.
Its strongest features are the authentic log construction, vaulted ceilings, stone fireplace, covered outdoor space, and private dock. The two-bedroom, one-bathroom layout is relatively compact, but it may be suitable for buyers seeking a weekend retreat or a smaller home near the water.
The main tradeoffs are the annual property taxes, HOA obligations, and the additional responsibilities that come with waterfront ownership. The condition of the dock, shoreline, fireplace, crawl space, and major home systems should all be verified before purchase.
At $170,000, this is not simply a comparison between the price and the home’s 1,024 square feet. Buyers are also considering the lakefront setting, dock access, and community amenities. Whether that combination represents good value will depend on the property’s condition, the exact waterfront rights, and recent comparable sales in the area.
For someone looking for a traditional log cabin with a lake-focused lifestyle, 80 Dean Ct is a property worth investigating further—but a thorough inspection and review of the HOA and waterfront documents should come first.
View the Original Property Listing
For additional property details, listing photographs, and current availability, visit the original listing:
Property Disclaimer: This article is for informational and educational purposes only. Property details, pricing, taxes, HOA information, availability, and features are based on the listing information available when this article was prepared and may change. Buyers should independently verify all information with the listing agent, local authorities, the HOA, and qualified inspectors before making a purchase decision. This article is not an appraisal, legal opinion, financial recommendation, or guarantee of investment performance.
