Georgia / North Carolina Mountains and Lakes by Alan Valkoun

January/February 2010

Georgia/North Carolina Mountains & Lakes Regional Guide

Your #1 Source for Real Estate • Builders • Lenders • Rentals • Services The Official Voice of The Northeast Georgia Board of REALTORS®

Proudly serving the Mountain and Lake areas of: Ellijay ~ Blue Ridge ~ Blairsville ~ Young Harris ~ Hiawassee, Georgia and Murphy ~ Hayesville ~ Andrews ~ Warne, North Carolina ~ Copper Hill, Tennessee

www.MtnsAndLakesOnline.com

January/February 2010

Frequently Asked Questions Regarding the 2009 Georgia Tax Credit Is this tax credit limited to first time homebuyers? NO, all purchasers of an eligible single family residence in Georgia that file a Georgia income tax return can claim the credit. Can the Georgia credit be combined with the federal $8,000 first time homebuyer tax credit? YES, if buyers meet the qualification for each credit they may claim both. Each credit operates independently from the other. One is claimed on your federal income tax return, the other is claimed on your Georgia income tax return. Is it true this credit is limited to the purchase of a single family residence? YES, the tax credit is limited to the purchase of one single family residence. Single-family residences (including condominiums) are eligible if they are: * New residences, residences occupied at the time of sale, or previously occupied residences, if such residences: - Were for sale prior to the effective date (5/11/09) and were still for sale after the effective date; * Owner-occupied residences with respect to which the owners acquisition debt is in default on or before March 1, 2009; and * Residences with respect to which a foreclosure event has taken place and which are owned by the mortgagor or the mortgagors agent. Is it true that eligible single family residences must have been listed prior to May 11, 2009 in order to qualify for the credit? YES, the original intent of the bill was aimed at reducing the housing stock that has been on the market for an extended period of time. Is it true that only eligible buyers that close between June 1, 2009 and Nov. 30, 2009 can claim the credit? YES, the intent of credit is to stimulate the market by encouraging potential buyers to get off the fence and BUY NOW! How do I determine the amount of tax credit I am eligible for? The tax credit will be for 1.2% of the purchase price, with a maximum credit of $1,800 (whichever is less). Homes purchased for $150,000 or more will receive a maximum of $1,800. Can I claim all $1,800 on my 2009 income tax returns? NO, the total amount of your credit must be claimed in one-third increments over a three year period. The maximum credit per year is $600 if you are eligible for the maximum $1,800. Any excess or unused credit may be carried forward to apply to succeeding years tax liability. Can I amend my 2008 Georgia income tax return to claim the credit? NO, the tax credit cannot be applied against prior years tax liability. I am looking for investment property or a second home, is the credit available for the purchase of owner-occupied residences only? NO, all eligible single family residences qualify for the credit. However, each taxpayer can claim the credit one time only. Is there an income limit for buyers who claim the credit? NO, there are no income limits applicable to this credit. Is there a limit to how long a buyer must own the property to claim the credit? NO, there is not a limit to how long a buyer must own the property. Does any portion of the credit require repayment for any reason? NO, if you are awarded the credit there are no penalties that would require you repay any portion of the credit. www.MtnsAndLakesOnline.com

Georgia/North Carolina Mountains & Lakes Regional Guide™ The Official Voice Of The Northeast Georgia Board of REALTORS®

Advertiser Index

Bank of Hiawassee.......................................Back Cover Better Homes & Gardens Metro Brokers Lynn Stephens.................................................12 C21 Professional Realty Nathan Fitts.......................................................5 Coldwell Banker High Country....................................12 Ginny Herman....................................................8 Exit Realty Shelagh Whitney................................................9 Georgia Carolina Premier Properties...........................8 Majestic Mountain & Lake Properties.......................2-3 Mike Kelly Realty...........................................................13 Mountain Realty............................................................15 North Georgia Mountain Realty Kenny Schrader.................................................9 ReMax Enotah Carla Connor & Brenda McEwen.....................8 Pat Macey............................................................8 ReMax Hiawassee McDream Team................................................14 Karen Godfrey....................................................9 Union Realty Amanda Brock...................................................8

EDITORIALS

2009 Tax Credit Questions & Answers.........................4 Jack Rabbit Mtn Bike & Hiking Trails....................10-11 Why Use a REALTOR®...............................................6-7 Ad Pickup for March/April Edition: February 1st - 8th For advertising information contact Ashley Owens at the Northeast Georgia Board of REALTORS® 706.781.3030 ~ ashley@negboard.com Ashley Owens, Graphics/Production Cover photo courtesy of Stuart Wade with Envision Web, LLC. Cover photo was taken in Suches, GA ©COPYRIGHT 2010 - Georgia/North Carolina Mountains & Lakes Regional Guide. All rights reserved. No part of this work may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means without written permission from the publisher. Information in this magazine is not warranted; published and advertisers are not liable for errors. Prices and conditions of printed materials are subject to change without notice.

January/February 2010

Why You Should Use A REALTOR®

All real estate licensees are not the same. Only real estate licensees who are members of the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS® are properly called REALTORS®. They proudly display the REALTOR “®” logo on the business card or other marketing and sales literature. REALTORS® are committed to treat all parties to a transaction honestly. REALTORS® subscribe to a strict code of ethics and are expected to maintain a higher level of knowledge of the process of buying and selling real estate. An independent survey reports that 84% of home buyers would use the same REALTOR® again. Real estate transactions involve one of the biggest financial investments most people experience in their lifetime. Transactions today usually exceed $100,000. If you had a $100,000 income tax problem, would you attempt to deal with it without the help of a CPA? If you had a $100,000 legal question, would you deal with it without the help of an attorney? Considering the small upside cost and the large downside risk, it would be foolish to consider a deal in real estate without the professional assistance of a REALTOR®. But if you’re still not convinced of the value of a REALTOR®, here are a dozen more reasons to use one: 1. Your REALTOR® can help you determine your buying power -- that is, your financial reserves plus your borrowing capacity. If you give a REALTOR® some basic information about your available savings, income and current debt, he or she can refer you to lenders best qualified to help you. Most lenders -- banks and mortgage companies -- offer limited choices. 2. Your REALTOR® has many resources to assist you in your home search. Sometimes the property you are seeking is available but not actively advertised in the market, and it will take some investigation by your agent to find all available properties. 3. Your REALTOR® can assist you in the selection process by providing objective information about each property. Agents who are REALTORS® have access to a variety of informational resources. REALTORS® can provide local community information on utilities, zoning. schools, etc. There are two things you’ll want to know. First, will the property provide the environment I want for a home or investment? Second, will the property have resale value when I am ready to sell? www.MtnsAndLakesOnline.com

4. Your REALTOR® can help you negotiate. There are myriad negotiating factors, including but not limited to price, financing, terms, date of possession and often the inclusion or exclusion of repairs and furnishings or equipment. The purchase agreement should provide a period of time for you to complete appropriate inspections and investigations of the property before you are bound to complete the purchase. Your agent can advise you as to which investigations and inspections are recommended or required. 5. Your REALTOR® provides due diligence during the evaluation of the property. Depending on the area and property, this could include inspections for termites, dry rot, asbestos, faulty structure, roof condition, septic tank and well tests, just to name a few. Your REALTOR® can assist you in finding qualified responsible professionals to do most of these investigations and provide you with written reports. You will also want to see a preliminary report on the title of the property. Title indicates ownership of property and can be mired in confusing status of past owners or rights of access. The title to most properties will have some limitations; for example, easements (access rights) for utilities. Your REALTOR®, title company or attorney can help you resolve issues that might cause problems at a later date. 6. Your REALTOR® can help you in understanding different financing options and in identifying qualified lenders. 7. Your REALTOR® can guide you through the closing process and make sure everything flows together smoothly. 8. When selling your home, your REALTOR® can give you up-to-date information on what is happening in the marketplace and the price, financing, terms and condition of competing properties. These are key factors in getting your property sold at the best price, quickly and with minimum hassle. 9. Your REALTOR® markets your property to other real estate agents and the public. Often, your REALTOR® can recommend repairs or cosmetic work that will significantly enhance the salability of your property. Your REALTOR® markets your property to other real estate agents and the public. In many markets across the country, over 50% of real estate sales are cooperative sales; that is, a real estate agent other than yours brings in the buyer. Your REALTOR® acts as the marketing coordinator, disbursing information about your property to other real estate agents through a Multiple Listing Service or other cooperative marketing networks, open houses for agents, etc. The REALTOR® Code of Ethics requires REALTORS® to utilize these cooperative relationships when they benefit their clients. 10. Your REALTOR® will know when, where and how to advertise your property. There is a misconception that advertising sells real estate. The NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS® studies show that 82% of real estate sales are the result of agent contacts through previous clients, referrals, friends, family and personal contacts. When a property is marketed with the help of your REALTOR®, you do not have to allow strangers into your home. Your REALTOR® will generally prescreen and accompany qualified prospects through your property. 11. Your REALTOR® can help you objectively evaluate every buyer’s proposal without compromising your marketing position. This initial agreement is only the beginning of a process of appraisals, inspections and financing -- a lot of possible pitfalls. Your REALTOR® can help you write a legally binding, win-win agreement that will be more likely to make it through the process. 12. Your REALTOR® can help close the sale of your home. Between the initial sales agreement and closing (or settlement), questions may arise. For example, unexpected repairs are required to obtain financing or a cloud in the title is discovered. The required paperwork alone is overwhelming for most sellers. Your REALTOR® is the best person to objectively help you resolve these issues and move the transaction to closing (or settlement).

Article taken from www.realtor.com

To find a realtor® visit www.negboard.com January/February 2010

Carla Connor, REALTOR®

(706) 994-1914 CarlaJConnor@aol.com www.CarlaConnor.REMAX.com

15 Earnest Street (800) 346-0455

Brenda McEwen, REALTOR® (706) 994-1808 REABrenda@aol.com www.BrendaM.REMAX.com

Amanda Brock 706-897-6636

10 Earnest St.reet • Blairsville, GA 30512 1-800-648-2686

PropertyInBlairsville.com

Close to Town Convenience! 3BR/2BA, One Level Living, 2 Car Attached Garage/ Detached/Carport, Full Un-Finished Basement, Large Living/Dining/ Eat In Kitchen/Laundry/ Fireplace, on 2 Level Acres with Huge Circle Driveway, Huge Covered Deck and Front Porch! $199,900

Pristine Mountain Cabins for Under $150,000 Foreclosure Cabins Owner Financing Cabins Call The Mountain Cabin Specialist Today. Beautiful Immaculate Spacious Home on 2.5 Acres along Young Cane Creek. 3BR/2.5BA Home with office/den, kitchen breakfast bar, large pantry, beautiful hardwood floors, large laundry room with storage, granite counter tops in kitchen & baths master has jetted tub, shower, and double sinks, walk in closet, stacked stone FP. Attached 2 car garage plus separate 3 car garage/workshop with loft and cedar closet. A great buy at $249,900. MLS# 192168

DEAL! 2 Bedroom Cabin with Creek Frontage and Short Walk to Lake Nottely. Great Condition $89,900.

“CALL ME”

FULL SERVICE ALWAYS GIVEN

PAT MACEY REALTOR , ®

SERVING FANNIN, GILMER & UNION COUNTIES

ABR, SRS, GRI, Associate Broker

706-455-6294 * 800-346-0455 email: pmacey@tds.net

www.northgeorgiamtnhaven.com

Ginny Herman, Realtor, ABR, SRS

Coldwell Banker High Country Realty 274 West Main St. Blue Ridge, Ga 30513

Direct 706-258-7013 Office 706-632-7311 Email: ginnyherman@gmail.com

Lake Nottely at it’s best! 3BR Lakefront home w/ everything on main level. Wood floors & stacked stone FP. Lg open kit, spacious master BR & BA. Oversized laundry room. Full fin. lower level, complete w/2nd kitchen, LR, FP & 2 BR’s. 2-Car Garage, screened Porch & vast open deck to overlook the lake. $585,000 MLS#192812.

REDUCED to $450,000! Pure Elegance This home exudes sophistication and class. 4 bedroom & four baths of pure STYLE. High end gourmet kitchen, granite, stunning master & master bath, keeping room, formal dining room, formal LR, finished basement, garage, 2.73 acres. $450,000. Mls#172464.

Breathtaking View - Adorable Cabin, Remodeled. New Kitchen, New Deck New Bath, & New Floors. Minutes away from Vogel State Park, Brasstown Bald, waterfalls, hiking, biking, & fishing. $110,000 MLS#192925.

Arresting View with 3BR & 3BAs Large Low Maintenance Home. 3 BR & 3BA, 2 Living Areas. HW floors, Great Room, Stacked Stone FP, Prow Front. Master on Main. Full Finished Basement. Decks. 2-car Garage. Central vacuum system. $260,000. MLS#190016.

“A lifetime of area knowledge at work for you”

Office: 706-896-3132

www.georgiacarolinapremierproperties.com 430 Main StreetNorth * Hiawassee, GA 30546

www.MtnsAndLakesOnline.com

AROUND THE MTNS - ENOTAH

706-745-6905

220 Earnest Street * Blairsville, GA 30512 Each Office Independently Owned & Operated

Karen Godfrey ABR, GRI, REALTOR®

Cell: 706-781-9708

Office: 706-896-4183

Web: www.chatugelakehomes.com

Email: karengodfrey@remax.net The Vinings $39,900 - $79,900

IT’S NOT JUST A COMMUNITY… IT’S A LIFESTYLE!! Breathtaking mountain views, lake views, paved streets, community water system, underground utilities. Community pavilion with stone FP. Only 5 miles to shopping restaurants, cinemas, etc. The Vinings is located across the street from Lake Chatuge…public boat ramp, miles of paved walking and biking trails around the lake and only 1 mile to Chatuge Shores Golf Course. Lots range in size from .75 – 2.15 acres. Owner/agent.

RIVER HEIGHTS. 3 WISHES!! HIAWASSEE RIVER FRONTAGE, MTN VIEWS, & BORDERS USFS. This 1.l22 acres is tucked back in a peaceful community with end of the road privacy. Building site captures great views of mtns & Hiawassee River. Public water, hi-speed internet, paved roads. $149,900. 186266.

Gribble Edwards Road: This 1.15 acre lot comes with a small unfinished workshop/storage building. 2BR septic system is in place and is set up for an RV. Well will have to be drilled. Property is being Sold “As Is”. Priced for a quick sell….bring the motor home/camper. $39,900. 188390

Caesars Cove Drive: Check out this BREATHTAKING VIEW!! Immaculate 4BR/ 3BA cabin overlooks beautiful Tusquittee Valley. Rock FP, custom cabinertry, lg covered rocking chair porch. One car garage. Private 1.6 acres lot. $229,000. 189789

Shelagh Whitney Cell 828-508-8272 Office 706-896-2140 shelagh@dnet.net • www.exitng.com NC Lic. #181344 • GA Lic. #217361

LOTS OF TROUT at this creek front cabin, private with 140’ frontage. 2 Bedrooms, 2 Baths with big bonus plus huge screened room, Hardwood floors, SS appliances, high end up-grades with rustic touches. Owner/Agent $249,900 MLS#186072

Shooting Creek Cabin: Private Creekfront cabin with your own swimming hole. Beautiful setting with large rock outcroppings & natures landscaping. 2BR/2BA main level & a totally finished lower level 2BR/1BA, kitchenette w/its own entrance. Perfect set up for guests or as a rental unit. $299,000. 190753

WOODLAKE LANE: Charming Cape Cod in a great neighborhood. This 3BR/3BA home features an open flr plan, cath.ceilings. newly remodeled kitchen, custom cabinetry, island, pantry. Downstairs is completely finished. 2 car carport ,storage bldg., garden area. Excellent condition…just needs a family! $218,500. 187724

Ask For My Report:

“Why Maybe You Should NOT Buy Just Yet!” Has the Market reached the bottom? Just starting to Look? Is this the right time for You? Need an un-biased Opinion? Do you need Facts...not “Fluff”? Do you want the Brutal Truth? Are you looking for a Foreclosure? For a FREE-No Obligation report. Contact me - email or call. Do you need a real estate question answered?

Email: RealtorKenny@gmail.com Full Time. Professional. Knowledgeable.

Hiawassee, GA/Hayesville, NC GA Broker Lic. #H45969 NC Broker Lic. #C13198

Kenny Schrader GRI - REALTOR North Georgia Mountain Realty 800-721-6924

January/February 2010

Jackrabbit mountain bike & hiking trails Written By: Joanna Padgett-Atkisson

Situated between the destination sites of Tanasi and Tsali, the recently constructed Jackrabbit trails are the latest addition to this mecca of the Southern Appalachians. Located in a small western North Carolina community near the town of Hayesville, this trail system has been constructed on a peninsula of beautiful Lake Chatuge on the North Carolina/Georgia border. Its stacked-loop design helped meet the goal of creating a trail system that appeals to all skill levels. For starters, the all-access Central Loop is family-friendly with a perfect length of 3.1 miles. In contrast, the one-mile High Point trail has a 75ft. rock crossing, elevated ladder bridge, steep inclines and descents to create a challenge for advanced riders. Most trails are fast and furious, with bermed turns, dirt jumps and whoop-de-dos. Others, such as SABA Beach, are tight and twisty. Jackrabbit offers great lake views while meandering through the woods alongside stately oaks and a multitude of flora and fauna. Currently the system offers close to 15 miles of singletrack while work continues on adding technical trail features and trailhead amenities. A connector trail is in the planning stage, which will tie the trailhead to its neighboring campground (of the same name). The trails are also convenient to the towns of Hayesville, North Carolina and Hiawassee, Georgia, which offer lodging choices from quaint B&Bs to five-star resorts. It wasn’t by accident that this network of trails turned out to be one of the area draws. Like many other success stories, having a core group of individuals who share a com-

mon goal and a well-thought-out action plan was key to its success. It began in early 2001, when I was approached by the administration of the Clay County School system (where I am employed as School Nurse) who knew of my love of cycling. They asked if I would be interested in helping to coordinate a mountain bike component for a newly formed after-school and summer program for middle school students, called Pathways. I worked closely with the Pathways Director, Cindy Curtis, to plan this specific activity for the program. It was very difficult to find appropriate entry-level trails, neither too technical nor too lengthy, that the students would enjoy. We would travel out of our county, and many times out of the state, for such trails. This sparked the question in my mind: “Clay County is surrounded by forested public lands, so why don’t we have any mountain bike trails?” If trails existed locally, then more people could be introduced to the sport, and those who already enjoyed it could bike more frequently. In late 2002 I began making inquiries to the Tennessee Valley Authority and the U.S. Forest Service, Tusquittee Ranger District, about gaining access to public lands for the purpose of building trails. It was readily evident that this project would take a collaborative effort between committed organizations that share common goals—promoting mountain biking not only for our community but for the whole region, to help promote environmental conservation and “green” tourism. A tight collaboration began between the Southern Appalachian

www.MtnsAndLakesOnline.com

Bicycling Association (SABA), the USFS Tusquittee Ranger District, and the Clay County Communities Revitalization Association (CCCRA). The potential economic impact of a welldesigned system of trails was a no-brainer for the CC¬CRA’s involvement, and they continue to be instrumental in writing grants and obtaining funding for this project. Funding was very difficult during the initial planning stage, but we were fortunate to have HandMade in America as an avid supporter. HandMade (www.handmadeinamerica. org) is based in the Blue Ridge Mountains of western North Carolina and serves as a support system for small-town revitalization, economic development and heritage tourism. This organization has been a great friend to Clay County. Jackrabbit not only received funding from Clay County Travel and Tourism, but also from the neighboring community of Hiawassee, Georgia, demonstrating its regional impact. Examples of donations from the private sector have included labor and use of machinery to clear and grade a 400ft. parking area; two pontoon boats that were auctioned with proceeds to benefit the trail; labor to construct a covered bridge; and monetary donations that were crucial for matching grants. SABA member Fred Lewis and I have donated the use of our homes not only to archeologists during the environmental assessment phase, but yet again to a trail crew for two and a half years to help cut the cost of trail construction. School & community involvement is paramount in a small, rural area lacking large corporate sponsors. During the planning and construction phase, the students at Pathways helped SABA with fundraising efforts by selling bicycle raffle tickets. Senior students at both Hayesville and Murphy High Schools did senior projects on “building sustainable trails” for school credit. Boy and Girl Scout Clubs have also conducted projects on-site. The entire process was not, however, flawless & without error. In the initial excitement and anticipation of having our very own local trail system, flagging and clearing was begun without sufficient knowledge of basic design

principals based on sustainability. It was not until SABA recruited trail guru Mike Riter of Trail Design Specialists to do an initial walk-through that we realized the mistakes made in the initial layout. To gain more knowledge, SABA requested a visit from the IMBA Trail Care Crew, who were onsite in November of 2005, marking the beginning of actual trail construction. Afterwards, funding was obtained to have Mike Riter return to help construct some great trails that have perfect flow and the ultimate “yee- haw” factor. As popular as the trails have been to mountain bikers, they are equally popular among those traveling by foot. Not only does the local hiking club (Mountain High Hikers) schedule routine hikes at Jackrabbit, but they are widely used for trail runs by individuals & school cross country teams. SABA would like to continue to enhance trail access, promote environmental education and inspire conservation. Plants of interest have been identified & marked with the goal of creating signs containing this information. The past seven years have been like a whirlwind. I have been told that I do nothing but eat, sleep and drink “Jackrabbit.” Every project needs someone to be the catalyst or driving force, and this has been “my baby,” but I sure have been lucky to have a lot of great nannies! Most of those involved in this project are employed full-time, with most of the planning/trail design/clearing and finish-work taking place on weekends or evenings. A multitude of sacrifices have been made by those conducting trail clearing in preparation for machine construction, along with hours spent with writing and submitting grant pro- posals. Those who helped create this masterpiece have formed a bond that will truly last a lifetime. Therefore, in a nutshell, it shows that even though one individual may give birth to a certain project, it takes a community to raise it. After many years of hard work, we can now say that it’s time to go “Ride the Rabbit.” For more information, check out www. sabacycling.com.

January/February 2010

Main Office Ellijay Office 706-632-7311 706-276-1254 1-800-307-0777 1-866-372-2734 274 West Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA 30513

www.cbhighcountry.com

LONG RANGE YEAR ROUND MOUNTAIN VIEWS! Secluded privacy! 3BR/2BA cabin on quiet, wooded lane. Gated & paved community. Hot tub on deck. In successful rental program. 1.78 acs. MLS #194055, $209,000.

LAKE BLUE RIDGE HOME! Near town & pvd rd access. Grt water & best Mtn Views Lake Blue has to offer. 6bd/5ba furnished home w/surround sound, security, Viking appls. Mother-in-law suite. Boat/swim dock. 1.99 acs. MLS 193550, $1,099,000.

LAKE NOTTELY boat ramp nearby. 4bd/2ba ranch home on 6+ acs of wildlife heaven. Full finished bsmnt w/lrg den & bdrm, room to add 3rd bath. Bsmnt would be grt in-law/teen suite & 1 car garage. Pvd road frntg & near town. MLS 193723, $259,000.

SENSATIONAL YEAR ROUND MOUNTAIN VIEW! Very private 2 bedroom 2 bath cabin on almost 6 acres. Enjoy the sunsets from the screened porch or the deck with hot tub. A Must See Property! MLS 193549, $199,900.

POPULAR MOUNTAIN COMMUNITY of Cherry Lake! Lrg 3BR/3BA cabin w/year round mtn views, lrg GR, finished bsmnt & lrg deck. Near Blue Ridge, Rich Mtn Wilderness & Benton MacKaye Trail. MLS 193854, $233,900.

FORECLOSURE! 2bd/1ba country cottage surrounded by nature. Energy efficient. Fully remodeled in 2007 w/insulation, fixtures & More! Whirlpool tub & stepless ceramic tile shower. Seas’l mtn view/ pasture/crk. Storage bldg. Owner/Agent. MLS #193560, $124,900.

COUNTRY SETTING! Beautiful 3bd/4ba log home w/spac open GR, sunroom, huge scrnd porch & country KIT. 2 Mstr suites & jetted garden tub. Bsmnt partially fin’d in-law suite, lrg workshop & oversized garage. Outbuildings. 5+ acs. MLS 193798, $432,500.

FAMILY WANTED! 3bd/2ba ranch home is waiting for you. Grt yd complete w/treehouse. Cath ceilings, window treatments, laundry area w/washer & dryer, front porch/rear deck. Extra tall dry crawl space for tons of storage. MLS #193322, $149,900.

IMMACULATE! Log cabin sits on level/gentle 1.35 acs. Privacy for this 2bd/1ba home w/trl to Briar Crk. Huge rock f/p, wd flrs, T&G thruout & lots of windows. Upper & lower decks. Must See! MLS #193411, $135,000.

ADORABLE MTN GET-AWAY! Well maintained 3bd/2ba cabin w/eat-in KIT, LR w/rocked wall & f/p & lrg dining area. Deck offers f-time mtn view. Mstr on main. 2 add’l bdrms on upper. Come and enjoy mtns! MLS #193272, $159,000.

FIGHTINGTOWN CREEK FRONTAGE! 3bd/2ba country cottage w/e-o-r privacy. Massive mstr BR w/sitting rm & huge tile bath. Very private cottage yet near town. Perfect for f-time or week-end getaway! MLS #193873, $287,000.

GREAT YEAR ROUND MOUNTAIN VIEW! 3BR/3BA secluded cabin w/hot tub & a sauna room. Would make a great rental or full time home. Concrete drive, off paved roads & near town. 1.9 acres. MLS #193705, $295,000.

Lynn Stephens Cell: 404-558-0844

Email: lynns@ellijay.com Web: www.lynnsellsellijay.com

Ellijay Office: (706) 276-2500

Amazing views from this 2/2 home in Ellijay’s only golf community. Quiet cul-de-sac location with useable fenced backyard which backs up to 13th hole. Upgrades in kitchen with all new appliances and countertops. Paved roads and convenient location. The view is to die for!!!!! $239,000. MLS# 193468

Intown convenience just off the Ellijay square. This adorable 2/2 cottage home has a metal roof, all appliances, new floors, lots of storage, carport and a recent home inspection with repairs completed. Oh, did I mention the great view? A great buy at $99,000. MLS# 192794

You can see for miles and miles from this well maintained 3/3 Walnut Mountain Ridge Cabin. Come enjoy all Walnut Mtn has to offer. This one has a new roof, new siding, new floor in kitchen, a sunporch, 2 FP’s, finished terrace level & a large garage. All paved roads. $245,000. MLS# 192300

Nearly new 2/2 cabin on paved road in gated resort. Cabin has lots of T&G, granite countertops, all ss appls, wood burning FP, tile in BA’s w/jetted tub in upstairs BA. Wooded backyard & several porches. Lots of parking & drive-under garage. Basement is stubbed for a third BR & BA. $199,000. MLS# 193975

Nice 3/2 ranch style cabin on quiet cul de sac and within walking distance to indoor pool. This private but not secluded cabin features a full length covered porch, wood burning FP, metal roof and full basement ready to finish if expansion is needed. A fantastic buy at $149,999. MLS# 190355

Well built log cabin w/a BR/BA on each floor. Hear the bubbling creek from your front porch or take a walk to the river or fishing pond in this gated resort in Ellijay. Cabin has wood burning FP, metal roof, covered front & back porches, large laundry room w/sink & dining alcove. Owner wants an offer. $184,000. MLS# 191919

Mtn Views at an affordable price. Cabin located in Big Creek Mtn a gated community. Long range views & listen to the sounds of the creek across the street. Open GR with 2/2, all appliances included & a large screened porch. Cabin has new roof and T&G in GR . This is the real deal! $121,000.MLS# 193197

20.6 ACS w/Long Range Views of Cohutta National Forest, 5 building sites, preliminary soil work completed & new road cut through property. Property is private, yet has easy accessibility. 1000’ along the ridgeline offering stunning views.$9,500 per acre or best offer. Some owner financing possible with 20% down. MLS# 185107

www.MtnsAndLakesOnline.com

Don’t Miss Out On These... Upcoming Area Events! January 2010 Events: 1st: The Temptations in Concert at the Anderson Music Hall in Hiawassee, GA. Concert starts at 7:00PM. Cost: Level 1 - $37.00 Level 2 - $27.00. For more information call 706-896-4191 or visit our website at www.georgiamountainfairgrounds.com 6th: Crane Creek Vineyards in Young Harris, GA is hosting Wine for Women from 5:00PM – 7:PM. For more information call 706-379-1236 8th: The John C. Campbell Folk School in Brasstown, NC invites you to join them in welcoming the nations top clawhammer banjo master, AdamHurt.to the Keith House Community Room. Show starts at 7:30PM and admission is free. For more information please call 800-837-2775 or visit them on the web at www.folkschool.org. 14th: Blue Grass pickin’ featuring local talent. Admission is free and concert will be held at the Gilmer County Senior Center. For more information call 706-632-3786 15th: The John C. Campbell Folk School in Brasstown, NC invites you to join them in welcoming Alan Jabbour to the Keith House Community Room. We are sure you will enjoy Alan’s old time fiddle tunes from Virginia, West Virginia & North Carolina. Show starts at 7:30PM and admission is free. For more information please call 800837-2775 or visit them on the web at www.folkschool.org. 16th: Brasstown Valley Resort will be hosting a Vine to Wine Educational Seminar. Seminar is from 1:00PM – 5:00PM and admission is $20.00 per person. For more information please call 706-379-4606 or visit Brasstown Valley on the web at www. brasstownvalley.com 21st: The John C. Campbell Folk School in Brasstown, NC invites you to join them in welcoming Ken Kolodner, master of the hammered dulcimer to the Keith House Community Room. Show starts at 7:30PM and admission is free. For more information please call 800-837-2775 or visit them on the web at www.folkschool.org. 29th: The John C. Campbell Folk School in Brasstown, NC invites you to join them in welcoming Frogtown Four to the Keith House Community Room. Show starts at 7:30PM and admission is free. For more information please call 800-837-2775 or visit them on the web at www.folkschool.org. 30th: The Fannin County Performing Arts Center presents “Music and Stories: Appalachian Style”. Bob and Melody Thomson will warm your hearts with gospel and bluegrass dulcimer music along with plenty of stories. Show starts at 7:30PM and admission is free. For more information call 706-632-1772 30th: Bad Company will be in Concert at the Anderson Music Hall in Hiawassee, GA. Concert starts at 7:00PM. Cost: Level 1 - $32.00 Level 2 - $22.00. For more information call 706-896-4191 or visit our website at www.georgiamountainfairgrounds.com

February Events: 3rd: Crane Creek Vineyards in Young Harris, GA is hosting Wine for Women from 5:00PM – 7:PM. For more information call 706-379-1236 5th: The John C. Campbell Folk School in Brasstown, NC invites you to join them in welcoming Berea College Bluegrass Band a talented student band from Kentucky to the Keith House Community Room. Show starts at 7:30PM and admission is free. For more information please call 800-837-2775 or visit them on the web at www. folkschool.org. 7th: The Peacock Playhouse in Hayesville, NC presents Moscow Nights, a colorful and exciting trio of musicians performing traditional Russian folk music. Show starts at 2:30 and admission is $14.00 for adults and $7.00 for students. For more information call (828) 389-2595 or visit their website at www.mapaa.org 11th: Blue Grass pickin’ featuring local talent. Admission is free and concert will be held at the Gilmer County Senior Center. For more information call 706-632-3786 12th – 14th : The Blue Ridge Community Theater starts off it’s “Year of Comedy” with the hilarious play by Ken Ludwig, “Leading Ladies”. “Ludwig’s newest comedy is so funny, it will make sophisticated and reasonable men and women of the 21st century cackle till their faces hurt.” The Houston Press Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday’s at 2:00. Ticket prices are $15.00. For more information call 706632-9223. Show also runs the 19th, 20th, 21st, 26th, 27th & 28th. 13th – 14th : Brasstown Valley Resort in Young Harris, GA will be having a Winter Arts & Crafts Festival. This is a juried event with outstanding and talented vendors, artists and crafters presenting their work. We will be featuring at least 10 different categories of crafters and artists during this (2) day event. The show will be open on Saturday the 13th from 10am until 5pm and again on Sunday the 14th from 10am to 2pm This event is free to the public 27th: Habitat for Humanity Towns/Union Co. 4th Annual Bowling Tournament to be held at Galaxy Lanes in Blairsville, GA. $25.00 per four person team. For more information call 706-745-8750 27th: George Jones in Concert at the Anderson Music Hall in Hiawassee, GA. Concert starts at 7:00PM. Cost: Level 1 - $37.00 Level 2 - $27.00. For more information call 706-896-4191 or visit our website at www.georgiamountainfairgrounds.com

January/February 2010

The McDream Team... “Selling the Mountains and Lakes one Dream at a Time!”

Donna Bragg 706.897.0215

1-800-950-4183 224 Chatuge Way * Hiawassee, GA 30546

P.J. McClure 706.897.4550

Visit our website at www.LakeChatuge.com

MLS #185947 1000’s BELOW COST! Lake access homesite, paved streets, U/G utilites, prestigious neighborhood! Excellent location close to Hiawassee and Young Harris, GA. Boat slip on Lake Chatuge included! $159,000

MLS #189460 Beautiful lake views from this nearly new 3BR/3BA home in prestgious Lake Forest Estates! Split plan, granite counter tops, vaulted ceiling, generous master suite on main, full finished basement Short Sale! $349,000!

MLS #168731 LAKE ACCESS COMMON AREA ON CHATUGE! Newly remodeled, light & airy 2BR/2BA, great for vacation home or rental income, walk to lake! A STEAL @ $77,000!

MLS# 167614 Comfortable and affordable mountain living! 3BR/2BA split floor plan newer modular on 1.86 wooded acres. Abundant wildlife! Located close to town, lake, golf, & trout fishing. $89,900

MLS #180188 New home INVESTMENT in Young Harris! Quality and affordability! 3BR/2BA+ loft, ample closet space, spacious kitchen w/island. Level lot and driveway within walking distance of College! $139,000

MLS #176427 Log-sided 3BR/2BA home w/year ‘round mtn views! In the country with no restrictions! Rock FP, wood floors, wrap-around porch, unfinished bsmt., central HVAC, workshop/storage building, and a great spot for garden! $179,900

MLS #184156 Stay the Summer or Year ‘Round at this spacious well-kept 3BR/2BA home. Sit on your front porch & enjoy the tranquility! Dbl. garage, workshop/ storage, fruit trees, garden spot, convenient location close to lake and golf! $119,000

MLS #188474 DEEP WATER Lake House with Pizzazz! 3BR+/3BA Luxury & style define this Timberframe home, den/ media room, wine cellar, granite, hardwood, lots of porches & stonework. Boat dock w/ Party deck! REDUCED! $999,900

MLS #183395 This is it! 3BR+/ 3.5BA, 4 car garage, hardiboard siding, 2 master suites, oak & tile floors, gourmet kitchen w/SS appliances, central VAC, rock FP, HUGE porch to enjoy the lake view! $439,000

MLS #168730 AFFORDABLE 2BR/ 2BA home with loft on Lake Chatuge! New kitchen, vaulted ceiling & skylights in great room, central HVAC, full unfinished bsmt, private wooded lot, dock included. REDUCED! $400,000

MLS #186738 3BR/3BA home overlooking Lake Chatuge w/dock slip! Granite kit. counters & SS appl’s, hickory floors, vaulted ceiling, master w/his & her closet, large rec. room w/2nd FP & wet bar on terrace level, great location! SELLER MOTIVATED!!!

MLS #178628 BRASSTOWN CREEK FRONT HOME in Young Harris! Beautifully crafted 3BR/2.5BA, vaulted ceiling, wood/tile floors, 2 fireplaces, sc. porch, private wooded lot, park-like setting! Great neighborhood! $339,000

MLS #166139 New 4BR/4.5BA home in prestigious gated tennis & swim community. Quality throughout, gourmet kit. w/Bosch appliances, formal dining, keeping room w/FP, great room w/floor to ceiling stacked stone Fireplace. Reduced! $679,900

MLS #184226 REAL LOG CABIN! Rustic mountain 2BR/2BA getaway on private 2 acre wooded lot! Lots of decks to enjoy the great outdoors, metal roof, central HVAC, large country kitchen and outdoor picnic pavilion! $139,900

MLS #167341 EVERYTHING ON ONE LEVEL! Newer 2BR/2BA home on level lot, convenient to Hiawassee. Wood & tile floors, granite kit. counters w/SS appliances, corner fireplace, dbl. garage, front porch to enjoy the peaceful mtn. views, $232,300

MLS #191731 This cozy recently remodeled home features 2 full baths, screened porch, storage building, and level fenced yard, convenient location! Modestly priced at $77,000

MLS #192589 The exclusive gated mtn community of Rocky Knob is where you will find this beautifully wooded homesite. Amenities include paved streets, UG utilities, fiber optic cable, fire hydrants. Close to golf, YHC, and USFS. $159,000

MLS #185722 Wonderful 4.938 acre elevated homesite with gorgeous mountain views and mature hardwoods. End-of-road privacy, septic approved, priced thousands below seller cost! Reduced to $89,900

MLS #193590 BANK FORECLOSURE! Rare estate-sized 17.0 acre lot w/lake, mountain & pasture views! Multiple building sites along ridge line. Located in well-established area of high-end homes w/UG utilites & paved road frontage, close to lake & golf! $299,000

MLS #181858 REDUCED! Overlooking Chatuge Shores Golf Course! Several homesites to choose from with year ‘round views, gentle terrain, and wonderful location! Lot prices start at $55,000.

www.MtnsAndLakesOnline.com

... l l a C o T ime T d Goo

Mountain Realty, Inc.

P.O. Box 10, 325 N. Main St. Hiawassee, Georgia 30546

706/896-2283 • 800-433-9307

Serving Your Real Estate Needs Since 1971 Carmolita Haney, ABR, CRB, GRI Broker/Owner

P.O. Box 972, 590 Main Street Young Harris, Georgia 30582

706/379-3115 • 888-393-7366

JUST WHAT YOU’VE BEEN LOOKING FOR. Country cottage, 2/1, on 1.52 acres! Mountain & woodland Views, light & airy style with a cool screened porch to enjoy your privacy! Getaway to the mountains! $79,850! F192163A.

THIS IS A GREAT DEAL, $99,000! This great older home has 3/1, attached carport w/storage + detached carport, garden spot! Great original pine floors, nice cozy rooms, comes furnished! A194085N.

EASY CONVENIENT LEVEL LOT holds this 3/2.5 home in town! Brick rancher with potential for beautiful mtn views w/some tree trimming. Walk to the town conveniences! $159,900. M178254C

RUSTIC CABIN ON 1.57 ACRE w/Cov’d porch to enjoy the peaceful setting on warm days & gas log FP to cozy up to on cool evenings! Garden area, storage bldg, mtn views & small branch. $179,900. S190492B.

QUIET ESTABLISHED NEIGHBORHOOD with short walking distance to Lake Access Dock! This 3/2 home offers large rooms and great year round lake views for your peaceful enjoyment! $199,000. W169877N.

IMMACULATE HOME IN HIAWASSEE CITY LIMITS, JUST $219,000! Nice Kit w/granite counters, Hwd floors, central vac system, 2/2, privacy fence & nice patio. Don’t miss this deal! R179148JA.

BEAUTIFUL NEIGHBORHOOD, NEAT AS A PIN country rustic 3/2 home on a peaceful wooded lot w/garden spot! Porches/decks, det. 2-car garage. Easy care lot w/beautiful landscaping. $235,000. M188444N

ENJOY THE VIEWS from your rocking chair porch in this spacious 3/3 with full fin Bsmt w/garage. Maple floors & cabinets, rock FP, lots of windows plus extra storage room. All with a warm inviting feeling! $239,900. H182097JA.

NEW COUNTRY RETREAT, JUST $249,900! Fantastic mtn/valley views, beautiful rock FP, wood floors, vaulted ceilings, jetted tub w/beautiful rock surround, lg Laundry & more! Pretty rock accents. Acre+ Wooded lot. H185720C.

EXTRA NICE 3/2 ON WOODED 1.25 ACRES in upscale S/D! Wood & carpet floors, nice cov’d porch for peaceful cool evenings in a private setting! Part Fin Bsmt w/workshop, FP in lg GR + nice eat in Kitchen! Walk to Hiawassee River! $264,900. L173833S.

AWESOME LAKE & MTN VIEWS from this new quality built 3/2.5 home w/open floor plan! Main floor master, tile & wood floors, great Kit w/solid surface counters, floor to ceiling rock FP, concrete patio for outdoor dining & to enjoy the views! Upscale address! $324,900. W178700JA.

LAKE & MTN VIEW HOME JUST $339,900! Private 3/2.5 on 1.41 acs close to town & Lake Chatuge! Enjoy the lg LR w/rock wood-burning FP & nice master suite. Large wrap around deck & Fantastic Views! The Eqpd Kit w/wood floors has 2 Bfast Bars, pantry, + a FR, 2/1 & Gar. Also a det Dbl Garage w/offc upstairs! D181347C.

QUALITY CUSTOM CRAFTSMAN DESIGNED HOME Overlooking Young Harris & Lake Chatuge! Extraordinary in every way, this 2/2.5 home offers many beautiful features & outstanding views. Call for details! $449,000. S191694B.

END OF ROAD PRIVATE 8.48 ACRES & A spacious 4/3.5 home! Mtn & Valley Views from open deck & Cov’d porch! Spacious master w/jetted tub & sep shower, LR w/FP, lg eat in Kitchen & many more amenities! $599,000. W192453C

LAKEFRONT HOME FOR THE PRICE OF A LAKE LOT! Almost 200 Ft of frontage on Lake Chatuge, includes a 3/2 home plus detached 2+car Garage/workshop w/efficiency apartment. Yr round Lake & Mtn Views! Your own private picnic park area next to your own boat dock! $495,000. G192162A.

SUPER OPPORTUNITY TO OWN THIS UNRESTRICTED LAKE LOT! With frontage on 2 sides, 356 feet! Very gentle to the water, large hardwoods & close to town! $549,900. M190533B.

AWESOME LAKE VIEWS looking at the Tusquittee & NC Mountains from this Furnished LAKEFRONT HOME! With a prestigious address, this 3/3 has a wrap around porch, hot tub, and covered boat dock! $774,000. T182026C.

BEAUTIFUL LAKEFRONT HOME, Nice walking community holds this 3/2.5 with master suite w/huge tiled shower & walkin closets, spacious Living/Kit Area, brick FP & more! Soon to have boat slip! $599,000. S184657JA.

AWESOME OPPORTUNITY to own this approx 2400 SF of Executive Office Space! With 8 offices, conference room, 2 baths, 2 kitchens - all beautifully finished & ready to go! $399,900. R191967JA.

8.8 ACRES, LAKEFRONT COMMERCIAL! Beautiful piece of property located just west of Hiawassee with 1600+ Ft on US 76! Fantastic views, easy access, unlimited possibilities! $999,000. H192068C.

Visit our website @ www.mountainrealty.com • Advertised on www.realtor.com January/February 2010