After spending a couple hours last week perusing Web sites looking for story ideas about lake property, I concluded that the market is really depressing for anyone who doesn't have $500,000 or more to burn. Not only is there a shortage of waterfront properties in general, most of the ones priced under $400,000 are either fixer-uppers or vacant lots with beaches. The pricey property of the day was a place at Priest Lake that was going for $3.8 million, although it was on 1.5 acres and resembled an upscale lodge. Deer Lake had a couple lots for $135,000 and $249,000 while Newman Lake had some humble abodes for $249,500 and up -- Melodie Little/Here's The Dirt.

Question: Any thoughts on how middle-income folks can find a piece of recreational property that's remotely affordable?

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