Why Gunstock Acres is the Lakes Region’s best kept secret

Nestled in the heart of Gilford lies a community that perfectly captures the "live where you play" spirit of the Lakes Region. Developed in the mid-1960s, Gunstock Acres has grown from a visionary mountain project into one of the most sought-after neighborhoods in the state. 

Spanning 711 acres of rolling ridges, the community is strategically sandwiched between the adrenaline of Gunstock Mountain Resort and the serene waters of Lake Winnipesaukee.

Whether you are looking for a year-round vacation home, a permanent family residence, or a peaceful retirement nest, here are some reasons why this community belongs on your radar.

A private gateway to Winnipesaukee

While many inland communities struggle for water access, Gunstock Acres offers its beneficiaries a secluded waterfront paradise. The Gunstock Acres Common Property Trust boasts over 504 feet of prime shorefront off Route 11. Members enjoy:

• A natural sandy beach: Perfect for summer afternoons overlooking panoramic lake views.
• Boating amenities: A community dock, sundeck, bath house, boat launch, canoe/kayak racks, and a 42-space mooring field (managed via a chronological waiting list).
• Active recreation: On-site tennis courts, a basketball court, and a baseball field provide plenty of off-water entertainment.

Additionally, all Gilford residents have access to the Gilford Town Beach on Lake Winnipesaukee with 1,700 feet of gorgeous sandy beach set on 17 acres featuring a snack bar and swim raft.

The best of both worlds: Ski in, boat out

One of the most unique features of Gunstock Acres is the visual landscape. Depending on which ridge your home sits upon, your "backyard view" is a toss-up between two icons; some homes look out over the sprawling islands of Lake Winnipesaukee, while others face Gunstock Mountain Resort. On winter nights, these residents are treated to the magical glow of the ski trails lit up for night skiing — all while being just minutes away from Gunstock’s ziplining, mountain coaster, 55 downhill ski trails, and eight lifts with great snowmaking and grooming.

Smart infrastructure and low dues

Gunstock Acres is designed for convenience. In 1981, residents established the Gunstock Acres Village Water District, a self-funding private system that provides 80,000 gallons of water daily, removing the hassle of individual wells. 

Perhaps the most surprising draw is the affordability of the amenities. Dues for the Gunstock Acres Trust — which maintains the gate-accessed beach and green spaces — are a modest $220 per year. 

A market on the move

If you’re looking at Gunstock Acres as an investment, the numbers speak for themselves. The community has seen a dramatic shift in valuation over the last eight years:

2018

Number of sales: 27

Average sales price: $266,000

Median sales price: $255,000

Sold price range: $123,000-$580,000

2019

Number of sales: 41

Average sales price: $276,000

Median sales price: $274,184

Sold price range: $110,000- $890,000

2020

Number of sales: 4

Average sales price: $312,950

Median sales price: $305,000

Sold price range: $220,000- $490,000

2021

Number of sales: 36

Average sales price: $515,829

Median sales price: $456,500

Sold price range: $214,250- $825,000

2022

Number of sales: 24

Average sales price: $628,129

Median sales price: $502,500

Sold price range: $295,000-$2 million

2023

Number of sales: 12

Average sales price: $717,125

Median sales price: $502,000

Sold price range: $435,000-$2.85 million

2024

Number of sales: 23

Average sales price: $630,369

Median sales price: $520,000

Sold price range: $210,000-$1.6 million

2025

Number of sales: 23

Average sales price: $608,295

Median sales price: $569,900

Sold price range: $290,000-$1.3 million

2026

There are currently no active listings for sale.

While the market has seen a surge in value, the current challenge for buyers is inventory. With only a handful of active listings available at any given time in Gilford, homes in Gunstock Acres are currently in high demand.

The verdict

You can see from the above statistics that there is a huge shortage of available inventory for sale. Currently, no homes are for sale in Gunstock Acres. Take a look at Google.com and search “Gunstock Acres.” RocheRealty.com is the first organic search result (not sponsored) and will direct you to the Gunstock Acres Community page on our site, showing any available properties for sale.

Next time you’re up at Gunstock Mountain, take a ride across the road, and you can see for yourself there’s a vast parade of housing choices on three beautiful mountain ridges overlooking the lake.

•••

This article was written by Amanda McDonald (603-707-0739) and Nancy Clark (603-455-9046) of Roche Realty Group with an office in Meredith. They can also be reached at 603-279-7046. Visit rocherealty.com to learn more about the Lakes Region and its real estate market.