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REAL ESTATE | SELLING TIPS
Tips for first-time buyers and sellers BY JAMIE SHELL AND LUKE BARBER
Purchasing a home can often be a milestone moment in the life of an individual or family. Whether buying that first house or piece of property or selling the same, it is wise to enter the process knowing what to look for and how to best set yourself up for success in the market. First-time home buyers are granted numerous perks when house hunting. Benefits such as specialized loans, tax breaks and community programs make buying a more manageable process with exciting advantages. But, when those purchasers are ready to move on to another property, as firsttime sellers they must make multiple decisions. A significant resource in your home-selling experience is a real estate agent. Agents often have years of local expertise and know the lay of the land, as well as how and what the market bears at a particular time. Their expertise can streamline the process by pricing the property based on local trends, finding motivated buyers and ensuring the legal aspects are covered. Throughout the Avery County area exists a number of professional, and highly qualified real estate agencies with a breadth of experience in the local housing market who possess the tools to assist first home sellers to move on to that bigger, better piece of property. Whether a family is selling their home because they’re welcoming a new member to the family, or a couple is beginning to start one and needs additional space, local agents such as Mike Lacey and Patricia Combs are more than prepared to offer their assistance. Lacey, owner of Lacey Realty in Newland and Linville, has been in the real estate business for more than four decades, following in the footsteps of his father, who opened Avery County’s first real estate office in 1962. Through his experiences, Lacey has learned to note the area trends and assist customers in order to have the
PHOTO BY LUKE BARBER The staff at Lacey Realty have the experience and professional expertise to help the first-time home seller get their house on the market and into the hands of a potential buyer. Pictured from left are Ally Long, Mike Lacey and Amy Vaughan. Not pictured are Bruce Lacey, Debbie Lacey, and Ivy Stafford.
maximum earning potential and success when it comes to homes and real estate property. He, along with Combs of Blue Ridge Realty, have assisted countless individuals and families with their real estate needs, noting their insights from experience in a number of areas to look for when buying and selling property.
COMPLETING REPAIRS One crucial way to ensure value in your home when deciding to sell is to make gradual improvements to the home while living there. According to Combs, a homeowner tends to live in their first home from two to five years before selling, which keeps them from paying capital gains taxes. This timeframe presents a great opportu-
nity to make updates and create a more comfortable space, not just for yourself but for the future owners as well. While major renovations may not make sense when putting the home up for sale, it’s crucial to ensure the home is move-in ready before going to market. Rather than focusing on removing walls or extending the living space, spend time inspecting your appliances. Try to make sure that all water equipment is free from leaks, the floors are sturdy and your HVAC system is up to date. It can be a dealbreaker when a homebuyer visits the property and notices that they must make significant investments in updating their appliances. SEE TIPS ON PAGE 4
PREPARING YOUR HOME FOR SALE • Update appliances • Beautify the entrance to the home • Declutter • Remove all family photos • Repair the roof • Replace lights • Fix small issues like loose doorknobs or squeaky hinges • Mow the yard and keep it maintained • Remove valuable items, like antiques • Put on a fresh coat of paint where needed • Fix plumbing issues • Clean extensively • Place flowers inside the home • Pressure wash the driveway and the exterior • Hiring professional staging company (optional)
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DIANNE DA V ANT &ASSOCIATES Margaret Handley,
ASID
Dianne Davant Moffitt, ASID Pamela McKay, ASID Priscilla Hyatt Councill,
Banner Elk, North Carolina 828.963.7500 Stuart, Florida 772.781.1400 davant-interiors.com
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In addition to the inside of the home, make sure the outside is well maintained and that the yard and pathway to the front door is landscaped properly. First impressions are everything. “A lot of times, people will get me in their house and say, ‘We want to put it on the market. Tell us what we need to do.’ Well, you need to update painting, update your roof, update your appliances and plumbings, fixers and remove all personal items from your house. Declutter it as much as you can. Take down all the pictures of the family and the kids. Pack it away. You’re getting ready to move. (In the meantime), do everything you can to get the house bright and new,” Combs said. Lacey noted that from his expertise, there are three primary things a customer would be wise to consider when it comes to planning to buy or sell a home: a disclosure on residential property, a survey and an owner’s title insurance policy. “A homeowner is required to give you a disclosure on residential property, which asks a whole series of questions, and a seller can respond “yes, there’s a problem, and this is what it is” “no, there is no problem,” or “no disclosure,” Lacey explained. “Usually the no disclosure can indicate that someone has inherited the house or the bank has foreclosed on the house, or the individual has never lived in the house and doesn’t know. In theory, if they know of the problem, they will respond with a ‘yes’ and disclose whatever the problem may be, so I’d always suggest getting the home inspections. It’s always worth the money and is like its own little insurance policy, so that if something goes bump in the night you have some coverage and some protection.” Lacey added that the survey also helps a buyer or seller from any unforeseen surprises along the way. “I’ve surveyed about 35 houses in my surveying career. That isn’t a whole lot, but if you’re one of the those 35 houses, it is a whole lot to you. The repercussions on when you find a setback restriction or whatever, for the cost of the survey, it’s
Patricia Combs with Blue Ridge Realty stresses the importance of hiring the right real estate agent who has knowledge of the local area.
like another insurance policy,” Lacey added. “The bank doesn’t make you get a survey, but if something goes wrong, the way they work it, the title insurance company will protect the bank but not protect you. So a survey can determine whether the house is all right, and most of the time it is.” An owner’s title insurance policy, Lacey explains, is a potential money-saving investment that helps the equity in an owner’s home. “The bank will require that you get a lender’s policy. For example, let’s say you purchase a house for $100,000. You put $20,000 down, and something goes wrong the day after you close, like a judge awarding ownership of the property as native homelands, or any of a variety of reasons the day after you close. At any rate, you’ve lost it,” Lacey explains. “They’re going to pay off the mortgage and the bank is covered for the $80,000, but there’s nothing covering your equity unless you get an owner’s policy. Once you have that owner’s policy, you have that $20,000 covered, and if it’s 20 years down the road, when you owe the bank $20,000 and your $80,000 is in equity, then you’ve got coverage for your $80,000. Title insurance policy is good for as long as you own the property.”
IS THERE A RIGHT TIME TO BUY OR SELL? Timing may also play a role in when a good time is to sell or purchase property. If you aren’t in a rush to sell your home, waiting for a summer selling season can help get the most value and quickest turnaround. According to the National Association of Realtors, warmer months show to have the most aggressive house hunters, while sales significantly slow during the winter. Of course, the weather can vary dramatically,
depending on your region. Timing the market right is another benefit you gain when working with an experienced agent. Combs points out that the summer months of August and September are the busiest for people to buy, while winter months are notoriously slow, with some exceptions. After all, the three most important words in real estate are location, location and location. “Now, if you’re on Beech Mountain or Sugar Mountain, it’s a whole different ball game, but you typically want to put your on house on the market around May or June,” Combs said. “People tend to wait and see if something has been sitting on the market, or they’re trying to move in before school starts. People are here more in the fall looking to buy.” Lacey concurred with the notion that summer months tend to generate greater interest in the real estate market, as he notes that the months of July through early-to-mid-October are the strongest months in the High Country when it comes to real estate. “The slower time in this location and offseason is typically between November and March. Much of the market up here is summer folks, plus not very many people want to look at a house when it’s cold. So when it’s December, people aren’t thinking about houses; they’re usually thinking about the holidays and Christmas. There’s not as many people here, as a lot of folks have gone back to Florida, South Carolina, Charlotte or wherever, and it’s cold,” Lacey stated. Lacey has been around the field long enough to almost pinpoint that time when the interest tends to wane, based on the climatological signs and people’s habits. “For the longest time, for most of my career, sales season
was July through October. You’d start doing stuff in April, and each month you’d get a little busier as you went. May and June you’re picking up, but showtime was July through October. By the end of October it’s like Elvis has left the building, specifically the weekend not immediately after the leaves fall, but the following weekend,” Lacey observes. “Let’s pretend that the leaves have fallen on a Wednesday. That next weekend’s going to be busy because no one knows off the mountain that the leaves are not available to look at, so they come. But when they return to their area and the word gets out that the leaves have fallen, that next weekend won’t be busy, so the season ends the weekend after the leaves fall, generally until the next spring. We sell very little in the winter season. I normally go into December expecting to sell nothing, and you’ll usually sell a few places, but nothing like in the summertime when there’s people and it’s warmer.”
THE COVID EFFECT ON AREA REAL ESTATE Real estate sales in the year 2020 was an anomaly all its own, according to Lacey, as the COVID-19 pandemic altered the habits of real estate customers in a way seldom previously seen in the market. “The past several years, we saw sales slowly beginning to build in April and May, leading into the busy season. That wasn’t the case last year because that was at the time that Covid was becoming an issue. April was a dead time and the phone didn’t ring, but come May we had an explosion of activity like a balloon has burst,” Lacey reflected. “We’ve never had a year like 2020. I’ve never experienced the demand and frenzy that we had this past year. The pandemic started in
March, and for that month and April nobody was calling. There were times I had to pick up the phone to make sure it was still working. Then around the first of May things broke loose and we went from zero to 80 immediately.” Lacey attributed the COVID effect on the market in the High Country to what he viewed as five contributing factors: a strong economy in areas outside of aviation, restaurant, hotel, bar or gym businesses; to the High Country as a popular area for Floridians to come to get away from the heat while also seeking more rural, less urban and population-dense locations; the safety of the rural mountain region versus urban areas with potential for civil unrest; an influx of buyers from non-traditional states such as New York and New Jersey to the High Country; and the trend of working-class individuals and families who wished to work from home in a serene and more visually appealing location. Staging and showing Hiring an expert to stage your home before an open house or showing is a strategy implemented by a number of realtors. The visual of how space is used can entice prospective buyers who can imagine how the property will work for their daily lives. Even if the house is already vacant, it’s beneficial to fill it with furniture, bedding and lights to give it an attractive ambiance. “Staging can be what an owner does on their own, like decluttering or putting some plants around, but a lot of homes are empty. They’re completely vacant. Sometimes we’ll come in with staging companies and it does help them sell,” Combs said. According to Lacey, there are advantages and disadvantages to staging. However, it ultimately comes down to what the future buyer’s preferences are. In either case, it is important to get rid of personal items in the home and prepare it for a new individual or family to move in. “If you have furniture there, someone might envision what the space will look like with their furniture in place. On the other hand, if all the furniture is gone then the house will appear bigger but not be cluttered,” SEE TIPS ON PAGE 5
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Lacey added. “One thing I would caution someone when it comes to selling is if there’s anything in the house that you won’t part with, I’d recommend getting it out of there before showing it. If you have Grandma’s ancient dresser that you aren’t going to give up with the house for any amount of money, then remove it from sight when it is being shown. Just as sure as you leave that item in the house, when we show the house to a potential buyer, that person is going to point to it and tell us they will purchase the house, but only if that one item that you said you don’t want to part with comes with the house. If you have something you won’t give up, make sure that you don’t have it in the house. If it isn’t in there, you can’t be arguing about it.”
REFERRALS ARE IMPORTANT Finding or being referred to a trusted realtor should be considered a long-term relationship, as many home and property owners seek familiarity and consistency when it comes to finding the right realtor for their constant or changing needs. “The longer you’re in business, obviously the better the percentage of business will come through referrals because you’ve made more contacts with people over the
years, so I’m sure it plays a big part,” Lacey noted. “I have people I serve who I have worked with, and I worked with their parents and helped them, so it’s been ongoing through many years. My dad was in real estate in 1962, and some of the people I’m dealing with are the children of the customers that he dealt with. If you’re working with a broker, find someone you are comfortable with and get along with, and stick with them.” Another vital piece of advice is to find a realtor who is familiar with the local area and who is also familiar with the particular home for sell. Many larger real estate companies tend to sell homes that are miles and miles away from where they themselves live. The upside with hiring a local agent who is within the same area as the home for sale is that the agent possesses an innate knowledge of the local schools,
businesses, community resources and important amenities within the area that you hope to call home. “You need the right agent that knows the area. That’s a big thing I see a lot. Let’s say there’s a home in Minneapolis right on the Toe River or in Frank or Roaring Creek, you’ll see brokers out of Charlotte listing these houses. They don’t have a clue what they’ve got. You really need a local, educated broker that is privy to the area that you want to live in. It’s not always best to go hire the company that has the big name. Hiring the right broker for the right area is more important than that,” Combs said. Combs can be reached by clicking to blueridgerealty.net/team/patricia-combs or calling (828) 737-3100 or (828) 733-9694. Lacey can be reached by clicking to www.laceyrealtync.com or calling (828) 733-2151 or (828) 733-5770.
Avery County’s Oldest Realty Firm Main Street - Newland, NC (828)733-2151 • (828) 733-5222 Linville Office • Linville, NC (828) 733-5770 Mike Lacey- Amy Vaughan For more listings see our website: www.LaceyRealtyNC.com, or contact us at amyv65@yahoo.com or allyblong@gmail.com Mike Lacey: 733-5044 • Debbie Lacey: 733-4475 Amy Vaughan: 733-1678 • Ally Long 828-260-6369
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REAL ESTATE | SELLING
Make the most of your listing STAFF REPORT
If planning to sell a home, it’s important for community members to understand what helps properties sell and the nature of the local real estate market. Purchasing or selling a house can sometimes be stressful and time consuming, but realtors across the High Country have tips to make buying a new home and selling one an easier process. When purchasing a home, Roxanne Weavil, the broker in charge at RE/MAX Realty Group in Boone, said buyers should start by identifying what they want and also what they need. “In a tight market, like today’s, they will need to prioritize their needs, and understand that their wants may have to take a back seat,” Weavil said. “Things like location, structural integrity and price need to take priority, while wants — all the bells and whistles — can perhaps be put
on the back burner and updated at a later time.” The National Association of Realtors stated that most homebuyers were looking to avoid renovations and problems with plumbing or electricity, and that heating and cooling costs were the most important environmental features in buying decisions. But Weavil said in today’s market, chances are not every need will be met so needs have to be prioritized. RE/MAX Realty has 10 fulltime, “well-educated, experienced associates who continually search for new and better innovations to serve our clients,” Weavil said. When buying a home, Kathleen Medlin of Century 21, suggests working with a local realtor who knows the area, has good communication and organization skills. “Be sure to obtain a home SUBMITTED PHOTO SEE LISTING ON PAGE 10
A recent listing is shown by RE/MAX Realty Group.
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See where to:
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Why the community I love gets all I can give. As your listing broker, I will use
As a breast cancer survivor,
my 20 years of marketing experience to maximize exposure for your home’s listing on paper, digital, and all social media outlets worldwide, Your home will also be listed on the Charlotte metropolitan Multiple Listing Service–a bonus not offered by all brokers.
I felt a need to help people in my community fighting this horrible disease. I started the High Country Breast Cancer Foundation four years ago to help women and their families during their struggle with breast cancer. 100% of donations to the Foundation go directly to patients in the High Country. I use the proceeds I earn from my real estate practice to cover every Foundation expense, including t-shirts, gi s and promotional items.
When I represent buyers, my services include an ongoing 24/7 search of available properties. I preview any home of interest to see if it checks all your boxes before you make the trip to view it. I attend all property inspections, to give you added confidence with your investment. Plus, you will have the resources of Allen Tate Realtors, the number one independent brokerage firm in the Carolinas at work for YOU!
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inspection ASAP after going under contract, and a realtor who will know how to negotiate repairs or compensation in lieu of repairs if needed,” Medlin said. “Communicate what you’re looking for to your agent and be open to looking at a property they chose for you. In this market, be prepared to act quickly.” Century 21 Mountain Vistas has been serving the Boone and surrounding areas for more than 35 years and is a “proud veteran owned business,” Medlin said. When selling a home, Weavil said first impressions are of “utmost importance.” “Preparation for a sale should involve decluttering and cleaning,” Weavil said. “Countertops should be free of clutter and cabinets and closets cleaned and organized to maximize the appearance of storage space. The home will be advertised all over the internet, and the way to attract buyers is with the photographs.” Medlin also agrees that first impressions are very important when selling a home. “First impressions matter — spruce up the entryway, make your home warm and inviting,” Medlin said. “Use an agent who provides professional photography and even a virtual tour in your listing.” Century 21 also stated that when selling, an agent will provide clients with the latest comparables of sold properties to help determine asking price. Active listing prices do not de-
termine selling price. Both Medlin and Weavil said when finding an agent, one who communicates and listens to their clients needs is ideal. More information on Century 21 can be found at www. c21mountainvistas.com/ and more information on RE/MAX Realty Group can be found at www.remax.com/real-estate-offices/remax-realty-group-boonenc/100429093. Realtor Pam Vines, of Blowing Rock-based Jenkins Realtors, said the housing market is competitive, to say the least, and is coming off of a high. “2020 was an incredible real estate year up here,” Vines said. “Houses were selling really easily and the numbers were fantastic.” Vines said the combination of classic supply and demand, the state of the economy, low interest rates and the pandemic combined to make the market fast-paced and not for the faint of heart. “You have to be ready to make an offer,” Vines said. “Right now, you can’t look at a house and say, ‘Oh well I’ll come back to it.’ You have to walk in there ready to walk out with a deal done, because right now houses aren’t lasting long enough for you to just browse.” She noted that any house under $400,000 does not last on the market, with some being sold within days of the initial listing. Vines noted the COVID-19 pandemic forcing people to work from home has contributed to the housing demand. “People are at home more and thinking and realizing they want
Wednesday, February 17, 2021
PHOTO BY DANIEL BARLOW Barbara Thomas, left, owns the office and a broker of 20 years with her daughter Roaxnne Weavil who is the broker in charge.
to be in a better one or just one in a different place,” Vines said. “If you have to be at home all day, or you’re now working solely from home, why not have that home be in the High Country?” While it may sound like the perfect time to cash in on a house, Vines said not to rush to sell. “You have to have an exit strategy,” Vines said. “Sure, you can sell a home in less than a week, but you still have to have somewhere to live.” Scott Warren of Boone Realty said prospective sellers are typically excited about the values they can get for their current homes, but then start looking at the prices for vacant land where they might build. Warren cautioned home buyers who are looking to rent as they are building, as the rental market is also tight. “If they are to buy an existing home, the same market prices that caused their current home to appreciate in value is driving higher prices for the houses they might buy, too,” Warren said. “So at what point are they really better off is the question they have to ask and answer.” Warren said an option for those wanting to sell their current home, buy a piece of land and build a new home is to buy a fixer-upper to live in while their home is being built. Those opportunities, though, are getting increasingly more
scarce and the numbers don’t work nearly as well as perhaps they did 18 months ago. That alternative is harder to pull off now, Warren said. Warren also noted that the inflation in cost of building and development plays a role for home buildings, as the uncertainty of materials cost and the shortage of skilled trades — such as plumbing, electricity and cabinetry — create risk. Warren said he prepared a budget for building his personal home in March then shopped for the materials in — within those months some of the materials had quadrupled in price. Aside from the “exit strategy” Vines noted other important things for selling a house. She said the online presence has to be strong. The National Association of Realtors stated that the first step for 44 percent of recent buyers was viewing the properties online. Because home buyers are doing their research online before even visiting a property in person, it’s critical to craft an attractive listing description. Vines added that the importance of staging cannot be underestimated. She said that when she works with selling a home, professional photographers and cleaners are brought in to present the ideal version of a home. The National Association of
Realtors stated that home sellers should make sure to highlight bathrooms, bedrooms, entertainment spaces and the landscaping in their online listing. An appealing listing can entice buyers to schedule a visit. Sellers should also consider offering a virtual tour with an agent. “The ability to view the home digitally is an excellent starting point for buyers, especially in the age of social distancing,” according the National Association of Realtors. Heading up the Leslie Eason Real Estate Team for Keller Williams High Country Realty, Eason noted that the current High Country market through the COVID-19 pandemic is unprecedented. Eason said the economic lockdown has kept people from visiting the area, so they are conducting searches online even more so than before. She said realtors at her agency are even selling properties through video calls. Eason listed three factors that were driving the nature of the market’s extraordinary demand. This includes investors moving money out of the more volatile stock market and into more stable real estate investments. Additionally, more people are realizing they can work from home, and may occupy their vacation or seasonal home SEE LISTING ON PAGE 11
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longer and more frequently. Eason also said that there is a migration of people out of urban markets and into more rural or less densely populated living environments. Vines also noted that the market demand does not open the door for overvaluing a house, while people may be searching for houses at a high rate, they still will be working with a budget. Vines said the biggest red flag when looking to buy a home is if it does not have a price tag or a listed sale price — which should be of note to home sellers. She also warned that there’s no “good deals” in the market right now, saying that people are highly unlikely to find a deal that severely undervalues the house for what it is. Vines said the first task she has clients who are looking to buy do is get pre-approved for a loan. “You have to know what your budget is, so I always have my clients get pre-approved before we start looking,” Vines said. “It makes it clear what you’re looking for. Sometimes, people will look and sign a contract for a house out of their budget, but sometimes people will have more money to work with than they thought they would.” Vines also noted that people can be scared off by a six-figure price tag, but with proper budgeting and being realistic, many can afford a home they never thought they could. For more information about Jenkins Realtors, go to www. jenkinsrealtors.com. More information about Boone Realty can be found at www.boonerealtync. com. Known for its year-round recreational activities that range from skiing and hiking to fishing, horseback riding and rock climbing, the High Country of Northwestern North Carolina has become a prime location for family getaways, with many adventure minded folks choosing to purchase property in the region. Local realtors, including regional real estate giant Allen Tate Realtors, have long offered families looking for the perfect seasonal escape top-of-the-line properties and superior service. According to Scott Macintosh,
SUBMITTED PHOTO A listing by RE/MAX Realty Group was staged by the Cabin Store.
Branch Leader of Allen Tate’s Blowing Rock office, the path to finding the perfect High Country getaway starts with finding the perfect real estate agency. “Align yourself with a reputable company, a company that is established and has the professional documentation that you need,” said Macintosh. “It’s really aligning yourself with a professional that’s going to be able to assist you and has the understanding and the tools to get the properties in front of you as soon as they’re listed.” Properties sell at a slow or fast rate depending on the current market. For example, a seller’s market could mean that properties in the regions could go quickly. Because of this, it is imperative that a real estate agent not only has comprehensive knowledge of the market, but also an understanding of the latest technologies. This could mean the difference in snagging a home in time to purchase the perfect vacation spot, or letting it slip away. “Because the inventory is low, when a property hits the market it goes quickly,” Macintosh said. “So, you have to have someone who understands the market, understands Facetime, understands virtual and follows the
rules of COVID-19. Because typically we are driven by a second home market so a lot of folks aren’t here.” Warren said it is not uncommon in today’s market to have what realtors call “sight unseen buyers” from out of town. “They realize how tight the inventory is up here, so (they) will try to get a property under contract, and then plan a trip up here to see it,” Warren said. “That’s a little risky for both the seller and the agent because sometimes those buyers get here and back out of the contract, for whatever reason, so the seller and agent have to start over again. But I have also seen them as successful, too. It mostly depends on how aggressive that offer is and what the terms are.” Before looking to buy, home buyers are urged to have all proper documentation and proof of funding in hand. Also, don’t be afraid to ask a realtor to provide up-to-date market conditions before beginning a search. According to Macintosh, a good realtor should keep the buyer informed about what kind of paperwork is need in order to purchase a home and what market conditions are like. “Align yourself with someone
who’s got experience, is professional and is able to assist you with market conditions and provide you with comparable market analysis when it comes time to look at the pricing. Also, align yourself with a pre-approval letter or proof of funds because when you do find something, that’s something that’s going to be needed to submit that offer,” Macintosh said. If planning on being away from a second home for extended periods of time, maintenance and general up-keep should also be considered. Getting acquainted with a good inspector, along with a general contractor could save money down the road. A real estate agent should be able to show a professional service disclosure regarding any issues surrounding the house. “Look at the age of the house, when you go through your inspections ask how old the HVAC system is. What is the septic? Does it have a generator? You have got to take certain steps to ensure that the property is in good shape, that it has been well taken care of,” Macintosh said. “Of course that would mean aligning yourself with a good inspector who will do an inspection on the house, followed up by a good relationship with a
general contractor who is going to be able to investigate anything that the inspector found.” At the end of the day, selecting a realtor that has a client’s best interest in mind is key. As a buyer or seller, be sure to bring up any needs that should be addressed regarding a purchase or sale. Macintosh said home buyers should actually be interviewing a realtor to ensure they are a good fit. Eason said home buyers or those trying to sell need to have an agent they can trust and are comfortable with. “That agent takes care of you, acting as your clearinghouse of information on various properties,” Eason said. “A lot of times, people think they can do it themselves and they wait too long to get a professional agent, and they keep missing out on opportunities because they don’t know who to call or when to call.” More information about Eason and Keller Williams can be found at www.mountainhomesnc.com. Information about Allen Tate can be found at www. allentate.com. Moss Brennan, Ian Taylor, Andrew Cole and David Rogers contributed reporting to this article.
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REAL ESTATE | TRENDS
Making the move to rural areas Experience the abundant opportunity of small-town living BY BAILEY LITTLE AND CHANDA RICHARDSON
Buying a home can be an exciting yet anxious experience for first-time buyers, and even those who have previously been through the process. Throughout the county, many realtors and home buyers express their fondness for the diversity Ashe County can bring. You can be centered close to downtown West Jefferson or you can be tucked away into the woods in the town of Lansing or Glendale Springs. The close access to surrounding amenities, such as rivers, hiking trails and shopping hot-spots allow Ashe County to put itself on the map as an exquisite place to live. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, many have found themselves migrating to Ashe County in order to get away from the hustle and bustle of metropolitan life. Ashe offers vast views of mountains, rivers and greenery, giving movers a sense of peace and calm as opposed to car horns and police sirens. John Blevins, a broker at Regency Properties, gave insight to how and why people choose to move up to the mountains, especially when living in a global pandemic. “Right now, the inventory, thinking of houses as inventory, is low compared to years past,” Blevins said. “That’s primarily due to an influx of people from other areas and other states, trying to get away from the hustle and bustle and the physical closeness that comes with more urban settings.” With COVID-19 regulations, gatherings, both inside and out, have been drastically cut down to reduce spread of the virus. Living in a city can cause obstacles for these regulations, which is why many choose to settle down somewhere quiet, like Ashe. Jennifer Price, a real estate agent with Century 21 Heritage Realty, described that she has
PHOTO COURTESY OF JOHN BLEVINS Life in the High Country is surrounded by wide open fields, countless trees and spanning views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
seen an increase in clientele from cities such as Charlotte and Raleigh amid the pandemic. “I think now that people are able to work remotely and see that they can work from most anywhere, a smaller, less populated town is more appealing,” Price said. “I also believe people love this community and the people in it. I have had several out-of-town clients comment on how friendly and easygoing the locals are.” The Ashe County School system also attracts some families to make the move. In past years, Blevins has had the opportunity to work with the high school in promoting engineering and machining as a career opportunity for students. “Thanks to our school system, most students excel,” Blevins said. “Future opportunities are great for students. There’s just a willingness to engage and what comes of that is a lot of scholarships awarded in this area.” This often becomes a selling point as parents are more likely to bring their children into an area where educational and career options are present and resourceful. For at least 50 percent of who Blevins has crossed
paths within realty business, the school systems are important and their success tends to help in the buying and selling process. Blevins also stated how there aren’t many single people who move to the area. Families that are younger and retirees often find themselves coming to the mountains. According to Price, most of the buyers she has interacted with are looking for a getaway or a retirement home instead of a full-time residence. Therefore, education has not been a large point of interest for her clientele. However, she does agree that there are wonderful schools in the area and she has experienced that firsthand because she and her children attended school in Ashe County and there were benefits to having a smaller student body. The county is known for its slower-paced lifestyle. Unlike larger cities, residents do not have to navigate public transportation systems or big crowds. There is also quick access to shops, restaurants and activities that do not require traveling in SEE RURAL ON PAGE 13
REAL ESTATE AGENCIES IN ASHE COUNTY Ashe Rental Agency 10 N Jefferson Avenue, West Jefferson (336) 846-6800
Ashe High Country Realty 7 S Jefferson Avenue, West Jefferson (336) 246-6348
High Country Realty of NC 214 S Jefferson Avenue, West Jefferson (336) 846-6875
Realty One Group Results 19 E Ashe Street, West Jefferson (336) 846-8111
A1 Mountain Realty 1 N Jefferson Avenue, West Jefferson (336) 846-4900
Regency Properties 204 E Main Street, West Jefferson (336) 246-2307
Jon Gatewood | NC Mountain REALTOR 19 E Ashe Street, Suite B, West Jefferson (828) 773-9852
Carolina Mountain Properties & Rentals 8 N Jefferson Avenue, West Jefferson (336) 246-8203
Mountainscape Realty 434 McConnell Street, Jefferson (336) 846-8977
Peak Mountain Properties Inc 406 Graybeal Avenue, West Jefferson (336) 846-7325
Vannoy Properties 9 E Main Street, West Jefferson (336) 846-2484
Brandon Walker 19 E Ashe Street, West Jefferson (512) 971-4960
Blue Ridge Realty & Investments West Jefferson 10 N Jefferson Avenue, West Jefferson (336) 489-3042
Century 21 Heritage Realty 11 Beaver Creek School Road, West Jefferson (336) 246-2664
Julie E Townsend Real Estate Services 1795 Mt. Jefferson Road, West Jefferson (803) 977-4832
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a hectic city environment. Many buyers come for these options and more associated with the small county. There have been less concerns in an area like Ashe. “Somewhere quiet and secluded is the biggest request I have,” Price said. She added that her clients who are seeking relocation to a rural area are looking for a change of pace. According to Blevins, a good portion of those who show interest in relocating to the High Country live in the coastal or the piedmont region. “Temperature plays into it, they get tired of the 90 degrees, they want something that is a little bit more mild,” Blevins said. “They come to the mountains and they realize that there is an abundance of water and water-related activities, be it fishing or canoeing or kayaking.” He added that some of his recent clientele include those living in the areas of Raleigh, Cary and the Florida Keys. Price said that at Century 21, during the past few years, they have seen it transition
PHOTO COURTESY OF JOHN BLEVINS In the High Country, residents can experience everyday views of fields lined with Christmas trees and exprience the thrill of all four SEE RURAL ON PAGE 14 seasons, which includes leaf season during autumn months.
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Patricia Lambert Combs REALTOR/Broker 3616 Mitchel Ave. Unit 3 Linville, NC
828-260-6932 trishpmre@gmail.com
My Reputation is on the SOLD SIGN
• Nationally Connected • Regionally Recognized • Locally Owned & Operated
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from a buyer’s market to a true seller’s market. She said that several of their agents have had clients from Texas, but the majority of her clients have been from large cities in North Carolina. Suburban living offers beautiful properties with significant amenities and while the asking price for these buildings may be considerable, families can find great deals on a home that provides a larger living space in terms of square footage and features. There is also more value in purchasing a home in rural areas as opposed to larger cities due to the limited space available. “There is for sure a better value in this area compared to say Charlotte for instance,” Price said. “Not only do you get a better price per square foot, you get acreage, possibly views and privacy.” Blevins offered some pointers for first-time buyers in the High Country. He encourages people to educate themselves on the different aspects of living in a rural area such as having your own septic system versus city sewage and water.
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He described realtors as being a “wealth of information” and encouraged those looking to purchase a home or purchase land to build upon, to reach out and communicate with agents. “Talk to your realtor, get their insights, be very clear about what your expectations are,” Blevins said. “And also listen when they start telling you about septic systems, wells and things of that nature.” For those who are trying to sell their home, Blevins said one major step to take is to depersonalize the space. This is because those who are interested in purchasing a home want to imagine themselves in that space, versus the appearance of the home instilled by the current homeowner. It is also important to focus on the exterior of the home as well as the interior, because curb appeal plays a major role in whether somebody decides to purchase a home or not. Something as simple as an unmowed lawn can deter a potential buyer, despite how wonderful the interior of the home may be. When providing tips for sellers, Price spoke of the importance of decluttering the home and ensuring any obvious repairs that need to be made are completed. She added that
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decluttering can go a long way in influencing how people see the home and as a result, positively impact the selling process. “If someone is interested in selling their home, now is a great time,” Price said. She has been selling real estate for almost three years and previously worked at the county’s vehicle and license plate office for 11 years. After her daughter passed away from cancer, she said she needed a change and real estate was something she had always been interested in. “I truly enjoy helping people find their home or sell their home so they can move onto their next stage in life,” Price said. “I have been really fortunate to have been so successfully so quickly.” Residents in metropolitan areas tend to maintain a sense of “anonymity” among crowds while those who reside in small towns or more rural areas feel a shared sense of community. The High Country’s close-knit nature offers unique experiences for those who want to make an impact on other residents and connect with their neighbors. Moving to a rural area is ideal for those who wish to make a big impact in a smaller community.
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THE BANNER ELK EXPERTS WE LIVE HERE ALL YEAR LONG Winter is incredible here. Fall and summer too. But springtime in the High Country is what you live for when you call this place home. The mountains thaw, the vistas come to life with color and all things outdoors become your world again. We know this firsthand because we live here. We ride horseback, hike, fish, golf, play tennis, sit on the deck and more. We are experts at living here. We are also experts at buying and selling the High Country real state in this beautiful place we call home. Engel & Völkers Banner Elk. We Live Our Expertise Every Day. Engel & Völkers Banner Elk 610 Banner Elk Highway . Banner Elk . NC 28604 . +1 828-898-3808 Learn more at bannerelk.evrealestate.com
©2021 Engel & Völkers. All rights reserved. Each brokerage independently owned and operated. Engel & Völkers and its independent License Partners are Equal Opportunity Employers and fully support the principles of the Fair Housing Act.
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REAL ESTATE | TRENDS
Buy or Sell an Energy Efficient Home Energy efficiency is all the rage when it comes to the real estate market. Buyers and sellers alike have taken to the importance of implementing smarter, more efficient appliances and systems into their homes. Whether you’re buying or selling, energy-efficient homes are commodities on both sides of the market. Properties that are already equipped with environmentally friendly appliances can speak to buyers on a budget and those who are cautious of their carbon footprint. As a seller, upgrading your home’s equipment can differentiate between a sale at the asking price or a lower offer. Check out a few interesting statistics discovered in the 2019 Energy-Efficient Home Design Trends Survey, conducted by Fixr. • The majority of homeowners are personally motivated to save energy to save money. • Ducts and windows are the two most effective places to save through air sealing. • Heat pumps are the most popular method used to heat an energy-efficient home. • Solar power is the most common way to utilize renewable energy in a property. Find out more about top energy-efficient home trends that home buyers expect, as reported by the National Association of Realtors.
ENERGY STAR APPLIANCES The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency approves appliances that boast the Energy Star logo as the same or better than standard products, only they use less energy. The equipment ranges from machines like refrigerators, dishwashers and dryers to household necessities like
doors and windows. Ensuring your home is equipped with certified devices can be a selling point in your listing that attracts more buyers.
HVAC EQUIPMENT The home’s HVAC system can be a significant investment and an expensive repair
if it isn’t working correctly. Suppose you do not perform regular maintenance on your equipment. In that case, it’s essential to hire a licensed expert to conduct an inspection. If you skip the assessment and go forward with the sale, a home inspector may discover it is on the brink of failure, leaving the buyer’s perception of you as dishonest.
SOLAR PANELS Equipping the home with power-generating solar panels can lower the electricity bills and reduce reliance on fossil fuels. Make sure you can pay off the installation cost as even after the property sells, some loans can’t be transferred.
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REAL ESTATE | FINANCIAL CONCERNS
Judging a Home’s Resale Value Even if you plan to purchase your forever home, it’s essential to think of the future. Life may take you in an unexpected direction. Before buying a property, you should know how to understand its resale potential. Ensuring it will appeal to others if you must make a move is necessary to make the purchase a positive investment. One way to stay on top of your home’s value after the purchase is by hiring an appraiser to estimate its worth. They will analyze factors such as the structure’s quality,
the square footage, a home’s rooms and the neighborhood’s characteristics. Their expertise is beneficial to gain before putting in an offer on a property, even if the seller has already hired their own professional. As you navigate open houses and private showings, know what to look for when judging the resale value of your potential home.
RESEARCH THE LOCATION The location of a home
directly impacts the value and demand of the property. Do your research to find out about its school systems, economy and nearby entertainment. Finding a property developed in an up-and-coming neighborhood can turn your initial purchase into a sizable return in the future. Even if you don’t have or plan to have children, local schools are essential to increase the value of a home. When you live in an area without nearby educational institutions, your buyers’ pool is limited to a specific collec-
tion of purchasers by mostly excluding families. Curb Appeal The home’s interior may have been the main selling point, but make sure the exterior shows off plenty of curb appeal. The outside of your property is the first thing others notice as they pull in for a listing or drive by to view it in person. Even if it lacks appeal right now, consider how you can improve it. Sometimes, a fresh coat of paint and an investment in landscaping can improve the appearance dramatically.
RED FLAGS Besides looking for the best features of a home, consider these red flags before committing to making an offer. • It’s been on the market for an extended period. • It’s the highest-priced listing in the neighborhood. • The home requires significant renovations before it is suitable for living. Research crime rates, the police presence and the types of businesses that thrive to ensure the community is safe.
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REAL ESTATE | TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF
Manage Emotional Stress Selling your home can be stressful, especially if you have an emotional connection to a property. When the process begins to affect your mental well-being, it’s critical to take a step back and manage your feelings. Rushing through a transaction to get it over with can lead to negative financial results or regret. Before hiring an expert to list your home, make sure you’re emotionally ready, and the decision is right. If you’re hesitant, draft a list of the reasons you plan to sell and the advantages you may acquire by staying. If you find more things you like about living in the property, consider forgetting the idea and re-evaluating it in a few
months. However, if you’re committed to selling, consider these tips to control your emotions.
YOUR HOME IS A PRODUCT Regardless of the memories you created within the property, to a potential buyer, it’s a home where they will lay their roots. Showcase the house in its best light while avoiding the feelings that may arise. If you painted your walls with bright and vibrant colors, consider repainting them with more neutral tones that speak to a broader audience. It’s also an excellent idea to hire a professional cleaning service be-
fore going to market. They can remove unnecessary clutter, clean the carpets and polish parts of your home that are often forgotten.
INVOLVE YOURSELF IN THE PROCESS The stress of being left out of the loop during a real estate transaction can be challenging to manage. Be honest with your real estate agent and explain that you wish to be involved in the process. It’s essential to find a balance between remaining active and being intrusive to your agent. While you shouldn’t get in the way while they work, it’s beneficial to
respond to feedback, keep the home tidy between showings and ask your expert for updates.
TURN TO FRIENDS AND FAMILY Sometimes taking a step back from the sale can provide stress relief. Rather than worry yourself about the transaction, try to find time to connect with friends and family. Discuss your concerns with them about the home sale for a different perspective. Perhaps they have gone through the same emotional struggles that come with selling your property and will provide you with honest advice.
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REAL ESTATE | BUYING TIPS
Should you Buy a Foreclosure? Many buyers consider foreclosed homes when looking for their next house. While an attractive option because of price, this may not be a good fit for every buyer. A home foreclosure is like the repossession of a vehicle or other valuable possession. If a previous owner failed to make their payments on time, the loan holder moves to take the property back. Foreclosure laws vary from state to state, so it’s imperative to do your research before making an offer or waiting
for the property to become available. Depending on your location, the process can take months to years. There are two categories of foreclosed homes and knowing the difference can help improve your negotiating power. • Bank owned. Once a bank has finalized the foreclosure, they typically put the home up for auction. Potential buyers will make their bids, allowing the lender to recover some of their financial loss. • Real estate owned. If a property fails to sell at auc-
tion, the home is generally listed traditionally. A specialized agent will show the house to interested shoppers and can result in a great deal after not selling initially.
GET THE MOST VALUE Investing in a foreclosed home comes with unique risks over a traditional home purchase. For instance, the property has likely been vacant for a considerable period as the bank tries to settle their legal issues. Empty buildings
are prone to vandalism, theft and dangerous conditions like the development of mold or mildew. When researching a property, it’s crucial to hire an inspector and receive bids from contractors if repairs are necessary. Use the reconditioning costs to build your negotiating power before making an offer. If you know of a homeowner facing foreclosure, you can sometimes score a great deal while helping them alleviate their financial struggles.
READ THE FINE PRINT Some states institute a law called the “right to redemption,” which means property owners who have been foreclosed have a period to buy back their home. Ensure the process is completed before attempting to buy a house at an auction or from a bank. You may find yourself moving in and fixing up your new purchase as the previous owner strives to earn it back.
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KEEP heating BILLS CHILL! Harsh temps force your heating system to work extra hard to keep up with the thermostat setting. But you can keep costs chill by managing energy use.
Help bills relax with these tips: • Lower your thermostat. Heating your home accounts for about 42%* of the typical utility bill. Lowering the thermostat by even 1 or 2 degrees will reduce your electricity costs related to heating. • Find and seal air leaks. This can save you anywhere from 5% to 30%** per year on energy costs. • Change filters regularly. A dirty filter can slow air flow and make your heating system work harder. That increases electricity use and your bill. • Take advantage of saving tools. Usage Tracker is a free tool that shows how much electricity you’re using each day and the impacts of outside temperatures. Find Usage Tracker on “My Account” at BlueRidgeEnergy.com.
Find more solutions to keep costs mellow at BlueRidgeEnergy.com/101. *According to energy.gov
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**According to the U.S. Dept. of Energy
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REAL ESTATE | LOCAL TOWNS
Towns of the High Country BOONE No matter what activity draws you to the High Country, it’s likely that you’ll end up in Boone at some point during your visit. Boone is the hub of Watauga County, the gathering place for people from all walks of life, whether resident or visitor, student or retiree, socialite or seeker of peace and quiet. The town is home to Appalachian State University, one of the 17 colleges and universities that make up the University of North Carolina system and draws more than 20,000 students. Interest in the school boomed after the Mountaineers’ football team won three consecutive NCAA Division I national championships in 2005, 2006 and 2007. The university’s presence helps create a young and friendly vibe throughout the town. Just make sure not to cross anyone by mispronouncing the name: It’s “App-uh-latchun.” Adjacent to the university is King Street and the surrounding area, one of the town’s best shopping destinations. Oneof-a-kind stores and eclectic boutiques dot the landscape, interspersed with legal offices and a diversity of restaurants to suit almost any taste. For more information, visit www. townofboone.net.
BLOWING ROCK Blowing Rock manages to cram a ton of beauty and fun into just three square miles. The town’s name comes from an immense cliff overlooking Johns River Gorge, where the winds whip in such a way that light objects thrown over the rock float back to their owners. Anyone wishing to experience the phenomenon firsthand can visit The Blowing Rock attraction, which showcases the town’s namesake and the Native American legend that surrounds it. The trails surrounding Moses Cone Memorial Park and Bass Lake offer a scenic stroll. There’s also the Blowing
FILE PHOTO A past December’s First Friday Celebration in downtown Boone is filled with Christmas spirit and preparation for the holidays.
Rock Art and History Museum in downtown, where you can experience art and discover history. The museum features year-round exhibits, cultural programs, art workshops, lectures and more. The picturesque town of Blowing Rock is the perfect place to have an active summer vacation — or to relax and do nothing at all. For more information, visit www.blowingrock.com.
VALLE CRUCIS Just off N.C. 105 south of Boone, Valle Crucis offers simplicity and serenity in a pastoral riverside community. The valley contains the site of the only known Native American village in the immediate area. The first European settler of Watauga County, Samuel Hicks, also built a fort in the area during the American Revolution. Today, the community offers several historic inns, restauSEE TOWNS ON PAGE 23
FILE PHOTO Jitendra, Shilpa and Aadhya Ratnakar of Morrisville take a hayride around Blowing Rock during the 2019 WinterFest.
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PHOTO BY JEFF EASON Some of the best photo opportunities in the High Country are at the Blowing Rock.
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rants, art galleries, farms and churches that provide service and comfort to all who enter. The Episcopal Church has played a role throughout the community’s history. An Episcopal bishop entered the community in 1842 and provided its name, which is Latin for “Vale of the Cross.” The Valle Crucis Conference Center, on the National Register of Historic Places, stays busy with retreats for numerous groups, and Crab Orchard Falls is a short hike from the conference center. The original Mast General Store provides a central gathering space in the community, as it has since 1883. Residents appreciate the store for its
post office, morning news and coffee, while visitors can also find gifts, apparel and souvenirs. Just down the road is the Mast Store Annex, which opened about 25 years later. Behind the annex is a gravel road to the Valle Crucis Park, a recreational area with walking paths, riverfront, picnic areas, sports fields and live music during the summer. Dining highlights include Over Yonder and The Ham Shoppe, which boasts some of the best sandwiches in the High Country. For more information, visit www.vallecrucis.com.
TODD Todd is a town so nice it’s claimed by both Watauga and Ashe counties. The community’s main drag, Railroad Grade Road, is popular with bicyclists and walking tours, as it
winds along with the New River, one of the few in the world that flows north. The Todd General Store was an old-fashioned mercantile that dated back to 1914 and was built in anticipation of the Norfolk and Western “Virginia Creeper” railroad. Todd was the last stop of the route and got much of its supplies from the train. The Todd Mercantile features the work of local artists and crafters, as well as mountain honey and other local goods, while also hosting monthly square and contra dances, with traditional mountain music by local performers. The ever-crafty Elkland Art Center, known for its colorful parades and environmentally conscious puppet shows, offers summer workshops and programs for those with a flair for creativity. The river itself provides plenty
to do, from canoeing and kayaking to excellent fishing. Several companies, including RiverGirl Fishing Company and Wahoo’s Adventures, have outposts near Todd to provide gear and instruction for anyone interested in hitting the river. For more information, visit www.toddnc.org.
FOSCOE Nestled between Boone and Banner Elk is the unincorporated community of Foscoe. But don’t let its size fool you. The community is brimming with shopping, art, dining and outdoor fun. Shopping includes mementos and more at Bear Creek Traders, treats, snacks and other tail-wagging goodies for your furry friends at Mountain Dog & Friends and the luxurious linens of Dewoolfson Down. If you’re
shopping for outdoor fun, cast a line with Foscoe Fishing Company, or pan for gold with the Greater Foscoe Mining Company. Some of the High Country’s finest gourmet sandwiches and baked goods await at Eat Crow, while burgers, billiards and family fun are on cue at Country Retreat Family Billiards. Foscoe’s also home to one of the views that made Grandfather Mountain famous — the ridgeline’s iconic profile of an old man reclining.
SEVEN DEVILS From elevations of some 5,200 feet, the town of Seven Devils straddles both Watauga and Avery counties. From many areas in the town, one has views of Grandfather SEE TOWNS ON PAGE 24
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PHOTO BY ANNA OAKES Winter hiking can be invigorating. The Beech Tree Trail at Elk Knob State Park is covered in snow in December 2017.
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Mountain, as well as Beech Mountain, Sugar Mountain, Rich Mountain and Mount Rogers in Virginia. Seven Devils is just a few minutes from Boone, Blowing Rock, Banner Elk and Valle Crucis and can be found off N.C. 105. One of the smaller towns in the region, Seven Devils began life in the 1960s as the Seven Devils Resort, and, in 1979, the resort became incorporated as the town. How did it get its name? According to the Seven Devils website, “The founders wanted a catchy, unique name that would bring attention to the
mountain. They noticed the repeated appearance of the number seven, including the seven predominant rocky peaks surrounding Valley Creek, as well as the many coincidental references to ‘devils.’ ‘Seven Devils’ seemed to suggest a frivolous, mischievous resort where people could experience the temptation of Seven Devils.” In the 1960s, the town grew with a golf course, ski slope, lake, riding ground and camping area. After the resort venture experienced financial trouble, the town was incorporated. While the golf course and ski slope have been closed for a number of years, Hawksnest has become one of the town’s centerpieces. Among the attractions at Hawksnest
(www.hawksnestzipline.com) is year-round ziplining. For more information and events at Seven Devils, visit www. sevendevils.net.
BANNER ELK The mountain valley town of Banner Elk has grown from a tiny hamlet to a town offering year-round amenities and memorable vacations for the entire family. Banner Elk is home to LeesMcRae College, a small, private, four-year coeducational liberal arts college affiliated with Presbyterian Church U.S.A. with more than 900 students from more than 20 states and countries. The old stone buildings nestled across campus make for a photographer’s delight.
The town hosts numerous shops and restaurants and stays abuzz with activities and events. Visitors can picnic or walk in the town park, hear live music, enjoy exquisite shopping or simply relax by the mill pond and stay in one of the inns after dinner in a fine restaurant. Banner Elk is in the heart of the High Country’s many attractions, and just a short drive will take you to numerous natural settings where you can relax and revel in nature’s beauty. Banner Elk also offers many cultural happenings, with a celebrated summer theater program by Lees-McRae and art festivals by some of the area’s many galleries and artisans.
Visitors are encouraged to return to Banner Elk each year for its Woolly Worm Festival, which attracts close to 20,000 people annually. Cutting between the peaks of Sugar Mountain, Beech Mountain and Grandfather Mountain, the topography of the town provides natural definition and gentle undulation through the town’s boundaries. For more information or a calendar of events, call Banner Elk Chamber of Commerce at (828) 898-8395, or visit www. bannerelk.org.
BEECH MOUNTAIN At 5,506 feet, Beech Mountain is the highest town in Eastern North America. SEE TOWNS ON PAGE 25
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That means two things: When winter comes, it’s a great place to ski, and, even on the hottest day of the summer, it’s cool on top of Beech Mountain. Even when it’s steamy in the “lowlands” of 3,000-plus feet, the temperature stays comfortable. The rest of the world seems distant when you settle down on the front porch of a rental condominium and survey the magnificent view that is one of Beech Mountain’s trademarks. Beech Mountain is a four-season resort. There are more than 5,000 beds available on top of the mountain. These range from rustic cabins to mountain chalets to luxury condominiums. When it’s time to eat, you can enjoy anything from a deli sandwich to pizza to a gourmet meal by candlelight. During the days, there are many specialty stores for shopping, a golf course, horseback riding, tennis, swimming and hiking. There are nearby canoe and raft runs that are among the best offered in the Eastern United States. Nightlife is alive and well on the mountain. Whatever your musical taste, you can find a spot to enjoy an after-hours scene. There’s another good thing about Beech Mountain. The mountain is so large that much of it remains in a natural state, with rich forests dotted by rolling farmland. And it’s only a short drive from the “downtown” to the country or resorts. Take your pick. Our guess is if you spend some time in Beech Mountain, you’ll want to come back to do some real estate shopping. Or at least book a slopeside condo for the ski season. For more information, visit www.beechmtn.com.
CROSSNORE Crossnore is a town steeped in educational history. The town is home to Crossnore Academy, founded by Drs. Eustace and Mary Martin Sloop. The Sloops traveled the steep dirt trails in isolated mountain valleys to bring medicine to the people and convince farmers to let their
children come to school. Because of poverty and distance, the Sloop school in Crossnore eventually took in boarders and built dormitories to accommodate them. It gained a national reputation for effectiveness in changing lives and in breaking the cycle of poverty, moonshine and child marriages of mountain families. Mary Martin Sloop eventually put these tales to paper in her autobiography “Miracle in the Hills,” which has since been used as the basis for a drama of the same name that takes place each summer in present-day Crossnore. The Sloops built a school, hospital, dental clinic and, eventually, a boarding school to give children the basis for an improved life. They brought to Avery County the first electricity, telephones, paved road and boarding school. Through the Sloopses’ advocacy, public schools flourished in Avery County. Today, Crossnore Academy carries on the work of the original school and has reclaimed the educational foundation beneath its commitment to give hurting children a chance for a better life. The school’s teachers enable it to meet not only the special needs of Crossnore residents, but also the needs of area students who live at home and whose educational needs are best met at Crossnore. The school is also home to Miracle Grounds Coffee Cafe & Creamery, a working vocational classroom, featuring specialty coffee drinks, homemade snacks, sandwiches, milkshakes, ice cream, Wi-Fi and more. Crossnore is famous for its Independence Day parade and celebration, and the town’s Meeting House is home to the Crossnore Jam, a series of gatherings and concerts by local musicians on the first Friday night through the summer and fall months. For more information, visit www.crossnorenc.com.
ELK PARK The town of Elk Park borders the state of Tennessee and offers a unique visiting experience. From the old-time feel of Brinkley’s Hardware Store to the additional Lower Street
antique shops and classic barbershop, Elk Park takes visitors back to a simpler time. The town’s original thoroughfare, Lower Street, and many businesses originated when Elk Park hosted a train depot for the old East Tennessee and Western North Carolina Railroad, better known as Tweetsie. Elk Park thrived due to the industry and remained vibrant after the trains stopped running through town. For more information, call Elk Park Town Hall at (828) 733-9573.
LINVILLE The community of Linville is located just south of the intersection of U.S. 221 and N.C. 105 in Avery County. The community was founded in 1883, designed by Samuel T. Kelsey of Kansas and named for William and John Linville, who were reportedly killed by Cherokees in 1766. East Tennessee and Western North Carolina Railroad passed through the community from 1916 through 1940, when a major flood washed away the tracks. The old rail route later became N.C. 105 in 1956. Linville has three country clubs in the area: Eseeola, Grandfather Golf and Country Club and Linville Ridge, all open late spring to early fall. A number of local tourist areas within a short drive share the Linville name, including the Linville River and majestic Linville Falls, Linville Caverns on U.S. 221 and the Linville Gorge wilderness area. For visitors considering making Linville a part- or full-time home, they can visit Linville Land Harbor, where units are available for sale or rent in a cozy community featuring its own golf course and amenities. A number of residents reside at Land Harbor part time, while others stay year-round to enjoy the beauty of the area’s four seasons. During the winter months, Linville is only a short drive to nearby ski slopes at Sugar Mountain and Beech Mountain, popular skiing and snow-tubing destinations. Perhaps the most popular tourist attraction housed in Linville is Grandfather Mountain.
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The Grandfather Mountain attraction offers picturesque views during all four seasons, animal habitats and the famous Mile High Swinging Bridge. Grandfather Mountain State Park offers hiking trails and backcountry camping opportunities.
NEWLAND The highest county seat east of the Mississippi River at 3,589 feet, the town of Newland was incorporated in 1913 as the county seat of the newly formed Avery County. Its original name was “Old Fields of Toe,” because it is located in a broad flat valley and is at the headwaters of the Toe River. Newland was a mustering place for Civil War troops. Toe is short for “Estatoe,” an Indian chief’s daughter who drowned herself in the river in despair because she could not marry a brave from another tribe. A town of about 700 residents, Newland succeeded over three other areas for the honor of county seat. The recently renovated courthouse, originally constructed in 1913, overlooks a classic town square, bordered by shops and churches and complete with a memorial to Avery County veterans. Adjacent to the courthouse building is the original jail, which has been converted into the Avery County Historical Museum. Exhibits in the museum, which is free to visit, include the original jail cells, numerous artifacts and information about the history of Avery County. During the autumn and fall months, visitors can check out the farmers’ market that meets on Saturday mornings outside of Newland Elementary School, and visitors traveling out of town can picnic or hike at Waterfalls Park, a unique recreation spot sponsored by Newland Volunteer Fire Department. Heritage Park hosts rodeo events on weekends during the summer and is the permanent home for the county’s annual Agriculture and Heritage Fair each September. Newland hosts an annual Christmas parade through downtown, with decorations adorning the town reflecting
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the area’s rich Christmas tree industry. With a number of restaurants and boutiques downtown, Newland is a prime destination for dining and shopping, or just to stop in on a visit to nearby Roan Mountain, Tenn., or Grandfather Mountain. For more information, visit www.townofnewland.com.
SUGAR MOUNTAIN If outdoor activity is your thing, look no further than the village of Sugar Mountain. Offering more than just great skiing, Sugar Mountain also provides its visitors with an array of ways to get outside and enjoy the beauty of the High Country. One attraction in particular is the summer lift rides on Sugar Mountain. On weekends, weather permitting, visitors can ride the ski lift to the 5,300-foot peak of Sugar Mountain. The 40-minute round-trip ride features a spectacular view of the High Country and runs from Independence Day weekend to Labor Day weekend. If heights aren’t what you’re looking for, Sugar Mountain can also be seen on foot. With numerous trails that wind throughout the village of Sugar Mountain, you can see both the brilliant greens of summer, the vibrant reds and yellows of fall, and the white of winter. The trails of Sugar Mountain are not just for those on foot. Many cyclists choose the village of Sugar Mountain for its variety of challenging and picturesque terrain. The village of Sugar Mountain also gives tennis and golf lovers an opportunity to enjoy their favorite sports in the beautiful mountain setting. With Sugar Mountain’s golf course, six fast-dry clay courts and full-service tennis pro shop, visitors will never be faced with the problem of finding something to do. Whether you come for a day or stay in one of the many comfortable lodgings the village has to offer, Sugar Mountain will soon become your destination for great outdoor fun. For more information, visit www.seesugar.com.
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CRESTON
treehousemountainrealty.com info@treehousemtn.com
828-765-1655 Making Buying and Selling an Easy and Comfortable Experience. Dedicated professionals working to help you reach your goal.
167 Locust Street (Lower Street) Spruce Pine, NC
Located in the northwestern corner of Ashe County, Creston lies on the border of Tennessee. The curvy winding roads can offer travelers some of the most beautiful, scenic byways in the area. The Riverview Community Center is located off of N.C. 88 West in Creston and is home to festivals and other events all year long. Worth’s Chapel at Creston United Methodist Church is located in Creston and was listed as a National Historic Building in 2005. The chapel was built about 1902. The interior of the chapel is finished, in part, with American chestnut wood, harvested before the blight reached the northwestern mountains of North Carolina.
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GLENDALE SPRINGS Home of the breathtaking and awe-aspiring fresco painting by Ben Long at Holy Trinity Episcopalian Church, Glendale Springs has become revered for its budding arts scene. The community has become a must for anyone visiting Ashe County. Proximity to the Blue Ridge Parkway is an added bonus as summer sets in and fall colors begin to explode.
GRASSY CREEK Just south of the North Carolina-Virginia border, Grassy Creek is a tightly knit community that is dotted with smiling faces and countless rows of Fraser fir Christmas trees. Check out the sights around the nationally renowned New River, where you will also find the River House Country Inn and Restaurant for delectable dinners.
FLEETWOOD
JEFFERSON
Located just off of U.S. 221 between West Jefferson and Deep Gap, Fleetwood is home to great community gatherings at the Fleetwood Community Center and the local volunteer fire department. On your way to and from the busy towns of Boone and West Jefferson, stop by to look at local crafts, antiques and civic pride in Fleetwood.
A rich history, dating from 1799, lies in the picturesque town of Jefferson. Jefferson was founded prior to its counterpart, West Jefferson, and stood at the base of Mount Jefferson. The town was first known as Jeffersonton, but then became Jefferson, and was one of the first towns in the nation to SEE TOWNS ON PAGE 27
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bear the name of U.S. founding father Thomas Jefferson. The town is the county seat of Ashe and is home to the new courthouse, as well as the historic 1904 Courthouse. The Museum of Ashe County History is located in Jefferson and can be found in the 1904 Courthouse. The museum, through items collected and on display, offers a look at who the citizens of the county are, where they came from, how they got to the town, what did they do on the way and where do they go next? Ashe County Park and Foster Tyson Park are also located in Jefferson, the former of which hosts a nationally celebrated disc golf course.
LANSING Whether you’re looking for a town reminiscent of the past or a town that offers whispers of tomorrow, the small, friendly town of Lansing beckons to travelers from near and far to visit and relax, while browsing its shops, trying some home cooking and tasting some locally made wine. The town, in the northwestern section of Ashe County, is 20 minutes from Jefferson and West Jefferson and only 45 minutes from Boone. Travelers can arrive in the town in less than an hour from Abingdon, Va., or Mountain City, Tenn. The town has one stoplight, and several businesses line the street. Home-cooked meals can be found at Country House Restaurant, while pizza, sandwiches and salads, along with specialty teas and fresh roasted coffee, are available at Pie on the Mountain. The first post office in the town was established in 1882 and served a rural community, made up of a village and outlying farms until the railroad made its appearance, according to www.lansingnc.com. The economy and population began to take off by 1914 as the Norfolk and Western Railroad, better known as the Virginia Creeper, came to town. A big commodity for area residents was iron ore mined from the mountains. The railroad served as an avenue to
FILE PHOTO It was a past winter wonderland in West Jefferson, with birds resting on tree branches covered in snow.
transport the ore to markets in Richmond, Va., and Pittsburgh, Pa. During its history, Lansing had a cheese plant, clothing store, coffin shop, doctor’s office, bank and a restaurant, according to the town’s website. The cheese plant allowed area farmers to bring their goods to sell instead of having to travel into West Jefferson. The town was chartered and incorporated in 1928. Lansing faced two devastating fires in the 1930s and ‘40s and faced Hurricane Hugo later that century. Despite these setbacks, the town continued to flourish and expand. The Works Progress Administration built the Lansing High School in 1941, using local granite stone. Former school still stands today. The scenic Virginia Creeper biking trail is available to visitors, as is the town’s park. For more information about Lansing, visit www.explorelansingnc.com.
LAUREL SPRINGS Another border community, Laurel Springs prides itself
with small town charm and beauty that entices motorists from the Blue Ridge Parkway for a quick bite to eat before continuing their adventure on the scenic byway. Although it touches Wilkes, Alleghany and Ashe counties, Laurel Springs is never more than a 30-minute drive from the listed county seats. Also, be sure to stop by the Thistle Meadow Winery for individualized tours of a family-owned wine business.
WEST JEFFERSON With a thriving arts district and Christmas trees galore, West Jefferson makes its mark on the High Country as a destination for locals, as well as visitors. The town was built around the Virginia-Carolina Railroad depot during the early 1900s. According to the town’s history, the first ownership of the valley now known as West Jefferson began in 1779 when N.C. Gov. Richard Caswell granted 320 acres to Col. Ben Cleveland, who battled the British at King’s Mountain. More than a century later,
the West Jefferson Land Company surveyed the new town and fixed its limits as a square one-half mile north, south, east and west of the Virginia-Carolina Depot. The town was chartered in 1915. The town’s initial growth came through the railroad, but early development was also spurred by the opening of the First National Bank of West Jefferson in 1915. The bank’s branch office, built in 1962, is now home to West Jefferson Town Hall. The town continues to thrive today and has a little something for everyone. Those visiting the town can browse one of the many art galleries, gift shops and retail stores. West Jefferson is home to many varieties of artwork, from paintings and photographs to sculptures and quilted items. More information about the area’s art district can be found at the Ashe Arts Center, located at 303 School Ave., just off of East Main Street. The center is home to the Ashe County Arts Council,
which sponsors a variety of community programming and exhibits throughout the year. A popular spot in the town is the Ashe County Cheese Plant where visitors can see cheese made and go across the street to the Ashe County Cheese Store to purchase a variety of cheeses, from cheddar to pepper jack and the celebrated cheese curds. Old-fashioned snacks and candies and locally made wines can also be purchased at the store. The cheese plant is open year-round and located at 106 E. Main St. in West Jefferson. Just outside West Jefferson, in the Beaver Creek community, St. Mary’s Episcopal Church can be found. The church is the location for a fresco of Jesus on the cross by renowned artist Ben Long. A painting of Madonna with child also hangs on the sanctuary wall. Local eateries and cafes offer all sorts of tasty treats, coffee, spirits and more, from one end of the town to the other. For more information, visit www.visitwestjefferson.org.
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