Brevard NC Real Estate Blog

October Land Sales - Brevard NC

Tue, 10 Nov 2009 14:44:50 -0600

Land sales in Transylvania County continued to struggle during October. The last several months have actually faired as good or better than last year, but overall the number of sales is still very flat. In October there were 9 land sales that closed compared to 11 in September, and 13 in August. Of those 9 that closed, 7 were under $100,000, 2 were $100K-$200K and one was in $400K-$500K range. The average list price for the month was $94,530 and the average selling price was $85,015 or roughly 90% of the list price.

All this being said, although the buying "season" for homes is typically strong through October and November, the fall and winter months are the best time of year if you are considering making a land purchase. The leaves are down and the summer haze is long past, making it much easier to see the views and the lay of the land. Plus, since there are over 1,000 land listings currently on the market, it is a buyer's market in every sense.

For more information about land for sale in Brevard area, contact the Clay Team at 828-551-6290, 828-551-6291 or visit us online at BrevardNCProperty.co m.

October Market Report - Brevard, NC

Tue, 10 Nov 2009 09:20:58 -0600

For the third consecutive month, there was an increase in residential home sales in the Brevard, NC market. While the increases have been small, sales the last three months have kept pace, or surpassed sales during the same time last year. Overall, the market has not rebounded from they hey day of 2006, but this recent "buying season" shows signs of stabilizing.

In October there were 30 residential home sales. The majority of those sales were in the $100K to $200K price range, but there were sales in all price ranges including the $500K an higher price point. The average listing price during October was $319,916 and the average selling price was $294,963, or roughly 92% of list.

For more information about homes for sale in Brevard, NC and surrounding communities, call the Clay Team at 828-551-6291, 828-551-6290, or visit us online at BrevardNCProperty.com.

My calendar says 2009, how about yours?

Thu, 05 Nov 2009 12:58:31 -0600

The last two weeks, I have had the strange feeling that some sellers think it's still 2006. We've been really busy lately so just in case, I double checked my calendar and sure enough, I was right. 2009 is winding down and 2010 is just around the corner.

In some respects, I can't blame sellers for wishing it was 2006. Three years ago, things were cranking! Business was good, prices were strong, and there were lots of transactions. But things have obviously changed. It took a while for the decline in real estate to hit the mountains of NC but by 2008, one by one, buyers started falling by the wayside, the number of transactions began to free fall, and frankly, life as we know it in the real estate business changed dramatically.

So why is it that so many sellers still think it's 2006? Have they not noticed that financing is harder to get and that there is a glut of inventory for sale? If they know those things, I'm really struggling to understand why a seller would cling to a 2006 pricing strategy.

This week one of our buyers made a cash offer (yes....CASH) on a high-end home that has been on the market for nearly three years. It's a nice enough home, but not without issues. When the home hit the market three years ago, it had a big shiny price tag. But it didn't sell. It has languished on the market since then and has been reduced a couple of times, but still isn't where it needs to be. So when we wrote up our buyer's offer, we knew it was a little low, but certainly enough to "get on the dance floor" so we could start the negotiating process. I was confident that we could find a happy place in the middle and in 45 days, we'd be sitting around the closing table. Less than 30 minutes after submitting our offer to the listing agent, we got a return phone call. There was no counter offer...just a flat NO. HUH? This offer wasn't out of line for the market and certainly warranted at least a conversation. If I was a seller who had been trying to sell for three years, and I got an offer of any kind, I do believe I would have at least returned with some kind of counter offer.

Frankly, I'm left with the nagging feeling that either the listing agent has done a disservice by not providing the seller with up to date market information...or the seller, with their rosy 2006 glasses, really don't want to sell. Either scenario is not good and everyone's time was wasted.

I'm afraid there are still too many sellers like this one who see their home through the same eyes as when they bought it...eyes that seem closed to what the market is now. Truth is, sometimes we go to listing appointments knowing that we may not get the listing because we can't tell the seller what they want to hear and that what they want for their house just isn't realistic in today's market.

In the meantime, our buyer has moved on to another property and "Mr. and Mrs. three-years-on-the-market" lost the chance to possibly sell their home. What a shame.

Get Away to Lake Toxaway, NC

Thu, 05 Nov 2009 10:39:09 -0600

There's just nothing quite like having a place on the lake....Somewhere you can go to get away from the hurried hassles of everyday life. A place where you wake up to the sounds of nature, grab a cup of coffee, and take a short walk down to your private boat dock where you take in the splendor of the morning light glistening on the water, the mountains framing the background, and you think....ahhhh, this is good!

This home in Toxaway Point is located in beautiful western North Carolina on the shores of the famed Lake Toxaway and it's waiting for you. At Toxaway Point, you can relax and enjoy your time in the mountains knowing that everything has been taken care of. Your yard will be cared for, the tennis courts are swept, and the heated lakeside pool is there whenever you are ready for dip after a day on the lake.

Toxaway Point is centrally located about 20 minutes from Brevard, NC and Cashiers, NC. It's close to restaurants, hiking, waterfalls, and rivers for some of the best fly fishing in the southeast. But it's also the kind of place where you can sit on your porch swing and catch up on your reading if you choose. Cozy and convenient, this home being sold furnished with few exceptions.

For more information on this great lake house for sale in Lake Toxaway, give us a call at 828-551-6290 or visit us online at BrevardNCProperty.com.

Rate vs Price - Which is the better deal?

Thu, 05 Nov 2009 10:05:25 -0600

Which is the better deal for a buyer? A $10,000 price reduction or a full price purchase with a lower interest rate? At first glance, a lot of buyers would jump at the price reduction. But that's not always the best choice if you are buying a home that you plan to live in for awhile.

Consider this home for sale in Brevard, North Carolina. In this scenario, a buyer could pay full price for the home and still save nearly $45,000 more than if they bought it after a $10,000 price reduction. It's possible with a simple seller credit at closing that reduces the buyer's loan rate. In the case of this home at 5 Crestview Drive, Brevard NC, a buyer would save $123.84 a month on their mortgage payment or $44,582 over the course of a typical 30-year loan.

For information about this or other properties for sale in the Brevard NC area, contact the Clay Team today! Or, visit us online at BrevardNCProperty.com.

SOLD IN HENDERSONVILLE, NORTH CAROLINA

Mon, 05 Oct 2009 12:13:10 -0500

THIS HOME IN HENDERSONVILLE, NORTH CAROLINA WAS UNDER CONTRACT IN 47 DAYS AND JUST CLOSED FOR 92% OF ASKING!

If you are interested in buying or selling real estate in the Brevard or Hendersonville area of western North Carolina, visit us online today at BrevardNCProperty.com, or just give us a call at 828-551-6290 or 828-551-6291. Be sure to ask for a copy of the most recent market report.

I just love happy endings!

AR Spam

Tue, 29 Sep 2009 06:50:21 -0500

Good morning fellow AR fans.....

I've been getting a ton of spam comments on some of my blog posts. Mostly links and junk for UGG boots. This morning I had about 8 that I "reported as a concern".

Anyone else having this problem....and what is the solution??

Thanks in advance.

FORECLOSURE - 8.8 acres Glenville, NC

Fri, 25 Sep 2009 08:55:22 -0500

CALLING ALL INVESTORS. This 8.83 acre parcel is located in the Sims Valley development in the beautiful mountains of Western North Carolina. Perched high in the mountains at 4,000+ elelvation, it feels like you're above the clouds and far, far away from the hussle and hassle of city life...because you are!

Sims Valley is convenient to Lake Glenville and located approximately 20 minutes from the mountain community of Cashiers, NC.

For details, contact the Clay Team at 828-551-6291.

Leaf Season Is Here in the Mountains

Wed, 23 Sep 2009 11:23:04 -0500

Say good-bye to summer! Fall is officially here and in western North Carolina that means leaf season has begun.

Peak leaf season runs from mid-October into early November although there is usually still plenty of color around as late as Thanksgiving as long as there are no heavy rains or winds to blow the remaining leaves to the ground. Sourwood and tulip trees traditionally kick off the season in late September with splashes of reds and yellows followed by the deep purple of the Bradford Pears (which aren't really pear trees, by the way). As we get into October, the birches, maples, oaks, sweetgums, and hickories join the party and everywhere you look is a blaze of color.

Naturally the higher elevations being to show color first. Around the Brevard area where the elevation reaches 3,000 ft., we're already seeing signs of fall in certain trees. Of course, pumpkins have been popping up at area tailgate markets and road side stands along with colorful mums and dried cornstalks, more sure signs that the season of crisp clear days, roaring fireplaces, and snugly sweaters is upon us.

Every year, I am confused about what truly determines whether or not we will have a good leaf season. Some experts say we've had abundant rain this year so the leaves aren't stressed and that will lead to a great season. Others say too much rain means there won't be as much color. I never know who to believe. According Wikipedia the color we see every year is actually there all year long. During the growing season, chlorophyll is produced at a faster rate which keeps the leaves green. But as the growing season comes to a close and the days become shorter, chlorophyll is used up faster than it is being produced in the leaf and over time, the green begins to fade away...revealing the "fall" colors underneath.

The fall season is also a great time of year if you've been thinking about land for sale in the Brevard, NC area. During the summer months, when the trees are full, it can be difficult to appreciate the value and location of a property. As leaves begin to drop, you have a much better idea about the "lay of the land", what is around it, and what kind of views are possible. It's also cooler and the summer bugs have gone where ever it is they go in the winter making the whole experience of walking land that much more enjoyable.

If you are planning a trip to the mountains, the Asheville Chamber of Commerce is a great source for tracking fall colors for the entire area. And if you're planning a trip to the Brevard area (only 30 minutes west of Asheville) be sure to check the new Visit Waterfalls website. It's chock full of great information about the Brevard area, the abundant outdoors activities, and more.

For more information about homes and land for sale in the Brevard, NC area, visit the Clay Team online, or call us at 828-551-6290 or 828-551-6291.

Western North Carolina Flooding

Mon, 21 Sep 2009 21:15:23 -0500

We live across from the Horsepasture River in Transylvania County...about 30 minutes west of Brevard. Even though we can't see the river from our front porch, we always hear it. It's typically a nice flowing mountain river that meaders through our community. Just down the street is a park where we can follow the river down to a waterfall.

All that has changed after days and days of torrential rain here in western North Carolina. In the park, the river, which normally runs about 2 feet below the edge, is now spilling over at least 20 ft from where it usually is. And the water fall....well, see for yourself.

FORECLOSURE Opportunity in Hendersonville, NC

Mon, 21 Sep 2009 16:04:05 -0500

Champion Hills is a member-owned country club community in Hendersonville, North Carolina, located approximately 30 minutes from downtown Asheville. At the center of this development is the Tom Fazio designed championship golf course that was just named as one of the top 5 golf courses in the entire state of North Carolina by Golf Digest magazine. Links Magazine also recognizes Champion Hills as one of America's Premier Properties for its perfect combination of mountain life style with world-class amenities.

Now, you can be a part of the Champion Hills community with the purchase of this amazing home. The home was built by Morgan-Keefe builders, one of the areas finest builders, in 1999. The low country design with it's sweeping wrap around porches recalls you to days past when life was a little more simple, and moved a little more slowly. Inside you'll find soaring 32 ft ceilings, 5 fire places, a private library, and unmatched craftsmanship. Equally special are the nearly 3 acres the home sits on. The level yard and mature trees creates your own private forest complete with a gazebo for enjoying the long range views.

This home is listed over $800,000 below the tax value. As a foreclosure property is represents a unique opportunity for the right buyer. Call today for current pricing.

For more details, contact the Clay Team at BrevardNCProperty.com, or call 828-551-6290.

Where to eat when you're in Brevard, NC

Mon, 21 Sep 2009 10:21:49 -0500

When I visit a small town like Brevard, whether I'm there for a vacation, or just passing through, I like to look for those small out of the way places where the locals go. Chain restaurants are fine in a pinch, but it's special when good food meets local charm. That's what you'll find at a new eatery in Brevard, NC called The Gate Keepers Table. You'll find it in the WalMart shopping center on the corner of Hwy 64 and 276 which is also the entrance to the Pisgah National Forest. If you're here to visit a while, the Hampton Inn is right across the parking lot.

We first tried Gate Keepers for lunch which is when we met Lynley Todd, the owner. Lynley is a local gal and single mom of three teenage boys. She was busy that day serving tables and visiting with the growing lunch crowd. The lunch menu is an eclectic blend of fresh home-made Mexican cuisine, vegetarian, and all American staples like hamburgers and sweet potato fries. Lynley will happily point out that they never fry beef or poultry in their vegetable fryers so vegans, or anyone who just doesn't eat meat, can be assured that no animal products were used in the preparation of their meal. Robert had the American hamburger that day ($6.50). It was a big 8 oz burger with all the fixings and it didn't stay long on his plate. I had the warm goat cheese salad ($8.95). Two hearty slices of goat cheese are breaded with sliced almonds and bread crumbs then lightly sauteed to create a warm crispy crust.They are served on a bed of greens, including spinach, sprinkled with dried cranberries, granny smith apples, and cucumbers, and topped with the restaurant's own honey-poppy seed dressing. That dish alone will bring me back for lunch any day of the week. Other lunch items we tried since that first visit include the warm cashew chicken salad, and the grilled chicken breast sandwich. Both tasty. Veggie lovers will find plenty of choices on the lunch menu including a veggie fajita burrito, open face veggie burger, and a fresh veggie sandwich. For south of the border flare, try taquitos mexicanos, spinach enchiladas, quesadilla de fajitas, or my favorite, the caldo de pollo soup. I haven't tried the desserts yet but with choices that include homemade roasted walnut-cranberry bread pudding topped with brandied granny smith apples, homemade REAL chocolate mousse, crepe of the day, and fresh grapefruit-mint sorbet, you can be sure I'll have a hard time choosing!

Gate Keepers has also become a popular spot for breakfast so one Sunday morning we stopped in with a group of friends to give it a try. If breakfast is your favorite meal of the day, you'll have lots to love at Gate Keepers. They serve only cage-free eggs, the grits are stone-ground and cooked with milk and cream and plenty of real butter, and their sausage is home-made. The specialty is their homemade southern buttermilk pepper biscuits. From our table, the omelets got high marks for fresh ingredients and plenty of them. The peppery buttermilk biscuits were tasty, but a little confusing for folks who like lots of jelly on their biscuits. But eat them simply with some butter or have them under some of the homemade sausage gravy and it's wonderful thing. If there was one item that came up short it was the pancakes. Personally, I like my pancakes big and fluffy and these were more like crepes. Tasty for sure, but next time I think I'll opt for the French Toast of the day which looked divine.

So the next time you're in Brevard and feeling hungry, stop by The Gate Keepers Table. It's only open for breakfast and lunch. You can reach them at 828-877-2200. Tell them the Clay Team sent you! We give it 4 Spoons!

Photo Source: Flickr.com

Does it have to be a TKO?

Mon, 07 Sep 2009 10:13:38 -0500

Negotiating a deal with "the other side" is a fundamental part of this business. Whether it's the price, the repairs, or any other part of the offer, the process of going back and forth is expected, and for some people, it's the part of the game they like most. But why do some agents and their clients feel like the only way to "win" is by a knock out punch, leaving the other side feeling beat up and bruised?

I guess it's my nature, but in all aspects of life, I'd rather work towards consensus than conflict. I'd rather find that middle ground where both sides, including the agents, come to the closing table feeling like they've gotten a fair deal.

Lately I've been in negotiations where my ability to do my job has been questioned and buyers have asked for far more than I believe they are entitled to, and frankly, I don't like it. No matter what side I'm on, I take my fiduciary responsibility seriously and work hard to get the best deal I can for my client, staying professional and above board along the way. Unfortunately, that isn't the way all agents operate. Recently, a buyers agent actually asked me if I had pulled comps on one of our listings when we priced it. What I wanted to say was "Nope, I just pulled that number right of thin air"...but I didn't. The point is, there's a big difference between stating one's case then backing it up with facts....and questioning someone else's integrity and ability to do their job. And with buyers, here's a news flash....there is a point in the price negotiations where getting a good deal morphs into greed.

Maybe it's just the times we live in. It's a buyers market and those buyers and their agents feel like they have the upper hand...and they use it to try and clobber the seller side.

Luckily, not all deals are like this. We're headed to a closing in a couple of weeks where both sides have bent over backwards to be accommodating. When we all meet at the closing table, there will be friendly hand shakes all around and everyone will leave feeling like got what they wanted. Isn't that really the bottom line?

Brevard NC Ranks Among Top US Cities For Raising "Outdoor Kids"

Thu, 03 Sep 2009 07:03:40 -0500

According to the August 2009 Backpacker Magazine, there's one more reason why Brevard, North Carolina is a great place to call home. The magazine, along with The Outdoor Foundation, have identified America's top 25 cities to beat what they call "nature deficit disorder" and Brevard ranks among the top 25 in a list that includes Bozeman, Montana; Boulder, Colorado; Burlington, Vermont and others.

To come up with this list, they examined 38 seperate metrics, including non-outdoor factors such as unemployment, obestity rates, and others. The formula gave greatest consideration, though, to climate and trail-specific data. Some of the key sources for data were the U.S. Census, Centers for Disease Control, American Lung Association, County Business Pattern Data, USDA Economic Research Service Natural Amenity Scale, Google Earth, Boy Scouts of America, American Camp Association, Bureau of Labor Statistics, and city-data.com.

It's no surprise to us that Brevard would be included in this list. Afterall, Pisgah National Forest, Gorges State Park, and Dupont State Forest are right here in our backyard!

If you would like more information about Brevard, North Carolina....contact the Clay Team, or visit us online today!

Farm Fair in Brevard NC!

Fri, 28 Aug 2009 09:35:01 -0500

If you're looking for a fun way to spend the Labor Day weekend, come visit the Brevard area and take in the Transylvania Farm Fair and Founders Day on Saturday, September 5 from 9 am - 2pm. Celebrate our rich mountain heritage and enjoy food from many of our local farms. Begin the day with breakfast with farm fresh eggs, sausage, and more. While you're there, be sure to pick up a jar of local honey or any of the other items available for sale thoughout the event.

From 10 am - 6 pm Transylvania Heritage Museum will be holding their first Annual Founders Day Fair, celebrating the Founding Families of Transylvania County. Starting at 10 am, crafts people will be demonstrating their skills in the old-fashioned arts of spinning, weaving, patchwork, woodcarving, and more. They will be selling their wares, many dressed in period costumes. Raffle tickets will be sold by the Museum for a hand-carved bowl made that day by Walter Kluge, with the winner announced at 6 pm, the close of the event.

Farm Fair is sponsored by the Brevard/Transylvania Chamber of Commerce. For more information, visit online, or you can call the Chamber at (828) 883-3700.

Home for Sale - Near Cashiers, NC

Wed, 26 Aug 2009 07:36:33 -0500

If you are considering a move to the mountains of western North Carolina, -
where the summer breezes are cool and life moves a little slower - you owe to yourself to visit Burlingame at Sapphire Lakes. You'll find a welcoming community with friendly people and outstanding country club amenities including a championship golf course, state of the art fitness center, pool, tennis, and more....all conveniently located between the mountain towns of Cashiers and Brevard.

Burlingame at Sapphire Lakes is approximately a hour's drive from Asheville Regional Airport and only a short 2.5 hr. drive from the Atlanta area.

This 3 bedroom, 3.5 bath home is perfect for a year round residence or as a seasonal home. When company comes, and you know they will, the lower level has a full family room, a guest suite with private bath, plus an additional bedroom and bath so everyone can enjoy their own space. There is also a full apartment above the garage that is perfect for more guests, or use it yourself as private fitness studio, art studio, library, in-law suite....or any other number of ways.

Throughout the entire home, you'll find a distinguishing quality, design, and style including Brazilian Cherry and Rosewood floors and stained glass windows designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. Large windows across the great room and the master bedroom let you enjoy the beautiful scenery with every change of season. And with the open and flowing floor plan, multiple decks and porches, it's a wonderful home for entertaining.

For complete details about this home for sale at 161 Old Still Road in Sapphire Lakes, contact us at BrevardNCProperty.com, or call 828-551-6290.

If you love all things southern...ya'll are gonna love this!

Sat, 22 Aug 2009 10:03:33 -0500

For GRITS like me (Girls Raised In the South), there's just nothing better than stone ground corn bread cooked in an iron skillet, buttermilk fried chicken, and all the other great southern food treats that I grew up with. My family roots run deep in southern soil and some of my fondest memories are from summer vacations at my grandparents small home on Pine Island, Louisiana where this kind of food was a way of life. We didn't worry about fat grams or fiber, we couldn't care less about calories, and it was a known fact that everything just tastes better with a bit of bacon grease. Sitting down to eat was all about sharing good home cooked meals made from scratch using recipes that were nearly as old and seasoned as the cast iron skillet that were used to cook with. Home grown green beans and tomatoes that we "put up" every season, country ham and homemade biscuits, turnip greens and pinto beans were staples in our family for as long as I can remember. Sadly, I don't have the time to cook like my grandmother did. I buy my buttermilk biscuits frozen, and my mom's fried chicken is reserved for a special occasion. But this time of year, when the tail gate markets are brimming with local farm raised vegetables, I still cook my yellow squash with onions and bacon and the smell takes me right back to my mom's kitchen.

So, when a friend of mine passed along this great website, I just knew I had to pass it along. It's all about southern cooking and the southern way of life in a style that looks like it came out of a 1950 Betty Crocker cookbook. You'll love the cooking instructions and the recipes. Right now there is a recipe for buttermilk pie that is high on my list! Be sure to check out the blog too. If you love all things southern, ya'll are gonna love this!

http://www.sugarpiefarmhouse.com

Market Report - Brevard NC area, July 2009

Thu, 13 Aug 2009 15:21:34 -0500

Home sales in the Transylvania County dropped slightly in the month of July. There were 20 closings compared to 25 in June. As has been the case all year, the lion’s share of sales have been in the $100K-$300K price range. The total number of closings were also down just slightly from July 2008 when there were 25 closings.

In July 2009 there were two closings under $100K; five sold in the range of $100-$200K; nine sold between $200-$300K; three homes sold between $300-$400K, and only one home was sold for more than $500K.

The average home sold during July was $241,255 and the median price was $232,500. Both numbers were down from June and from this same time last year.

The average number of days from listing to close rose slightly to 200 days.

For additional information about the home you see pictured, click on the image. For more information about all homes for sale in the Brevard NC area, contact the Clay Team at 828-551-6290, or visit online at BrevardNCProperty.com

Extradordinary Foreclosure Property - Hendersonville, NC

Fri, 07 Aug 2009 09:19:01 -0500

This is an exceptional opportunity to own an estate size home in the golf course community of Champion Hills. Tax assessed value is $2,131,100 but it is now offered as a foreclosure property at $1,239,900 - nearly $900,000 below tax value.

At the center of Champion Hills is the Tom Fazio designed golf course, recently named one of the top 5 golf courses in North Carolina according to Golf Digest. But whether you are a golf aficionado or not, you'll appreciate the upscale, but relaxed life style of the community and all the amenities and social activities available to the residents. Champion Hills is located approximately 15 minutes from downtown Hendersonville, and approximately 30 minutes from Asheville.

This 7,770 square foot home sits on nearly 3 acres on a private road, over looking the fairway. The stately low country designed home was built in 1999 by Morgan Keefe builders, one of the area's most recognized luxury home builders. The grounds include a grand, custom water feature with multiple waterfalls and Koi pond as well as a gazebo designed to compliment the architectural style of the home. Step inside and you'll find soaring 32 ft ceilings in the living room, 5 fireplaces, 4 bedrooms, 4 full baths and 2 half baths, and a beautiful library with it's own private deck. The home also features a media center complete with a home theater, whole house sound system as well as a billiards room with a custom made billiards table. All included in the price.

For more information about this home, or to schedule a preview, contact the Clay Team at 828-551-6290 or visit online at BrevardNCProperty.com.

Price Reduction! 104 Shepherd St - Hendersonville, NC

Tue, 28 Jul 2009 17:47:42 -0500

REDUCED $10,000!

NOW AVAILABLE FOR ONLY $155,00!

If you love the bungalow design, you'll love this home for sale in Hendersonville, North Carolina. It is loaded with period charm including original hardwood floors, fireplace, doors, and more. The back yard is plenty big enough for kids and pets. Plus, this home is convenient to Flat Rock and downtown Hendersonville.

Cozy, comfy, and just right!

For more information, contact the Clay Team today at BrevardNCProperty.com, or call 828-551-6290.

Help from your credit card company? Fat Chance!

Sat, 25 Jul 2009 11:42:32 -0500

Today's economic climate has spawned a whole new batch of "financial experts", each of whom have a different take on how to survive during these tough times. One of their gems of wisdom is the suggestion that you call your credit card companies and talk to them about lowering your interest rate. DON'T DO IT!

I got a call yesterday from a client/friend with an unbelievable story that further hardens my feelings for credit card companies. This guy is in the construction business and through no fault of his own, his income has been greatly reduced this year because of the downturn in building in this area. But, he's paying his bills, making sacrifices, and doing all the right things to keep current on all his payments. Yesterday, he called his credit card company to see if he could get his interest rate lowered from the 12.99% he was paying to something more in line with his other credit cards which are around 6%. His balance on this card was around $5,000 and he had a credit limit of $13,000 so his ratio wasn't too bad. He had never been late, he wasn't past due.

Well, guess what...after talking to the credit department at FIA (they took over Wachovia's credit card business recently), and explaining his situation, not only did they NOT lower his interest rate, they immediately cut his credit limit to $5,500 which instantly maxed out his credit card. That may end up affecting his credit score or his ability to get any other lending assistance and ultimately make his situation even worse.

Let me be very clear about this. These blood sucking credit card companies don't care about you, or me, or anyone else. If you think for a second that you can call them and get a little help.....forget it. Their only concern is their bottom line....not yours.

The next time you hear anyone suggest that you can "negotiate" your credit card rate....feel free to laugh out loud. The only people who can "negotiate" a credit card rate successfully are people who don't really need the credit in the first place.

SOLD! In 12 days!

Thu, 16 Jul 2009 10:52:13 -0500

Who says people aren't buying real estate?

We just closed on a residential lot that we had on the market for 12 days. We have a closing on a home this week that we sold in under 90 days. And another closing next week on a home we sold that had been on the market for only about 2 weeks before we brought the buyer!

Best of all, despite the dire news about lending, we haven't had a client yet that couldn't get solid financing.

What we haven't seen are people lining up or even asking about the $8,000 first time home buyer incentive. The effectiveness of that little nugget remains to be seen.

Western North Carolina Real Estate Market Report - June 2009

Thu, 16 Jul 2009 10:20:57 -0500

The real estate market in western North Carolina, including the areas in and around Hendersonville, Pisgah Forest, Connestee Falls, and Brevard, is very seasonal. Typically, the “buying season” starts in the spring, sometime before Memorial Day and peaks during the summer months. After the kids start going back to shool business slows slightly but picks up again during the leaf season. After Thanksgiving, or the end of leaf season (whichever comes first), the streets are quiet until the following spring when we ramp up once again.

This year has been no exception and while the overall numbers are reflective of the downturn in the economy, the pattern is the same.

In Henderson County, there were 111 homes closed during the month of June, a 29% increase over May, but only a very slight increase over June 2008 when there were 108 closings. Much like the neighborhing Brevard area in Transylvania County, the largest number of sales occured in the $100-$300K price range. There were 13 closings at $100K or less; 44 at $100k-$200K; and 34 closings in the $200-$300K price range. Homes in the $300-$400K price range had 12 closings. And there 4 closings in the $400-$500K range and in the $500K and up price range.

The average selling price in June was $220,091, only slightly higher than May, but it was a 20% drop from June 2008. The median price was $197,000, only a $10,000 increase over May and an 8% drop from the year before.

For more information about homes and land for sale in the Hendersonville or Brevard area, visit the Clay Team online at brevardncproperty.com, or call 828-551-6290/551-6291.

Brevard NC Real Estate Market Report - June 2009

Thu, 16 Jul 2009 09:44:38 -0500

The real estate market in western North Carolina, specifically the Brevard area, is very seasonal and typically ebbs and flows in synch the visitor industry. Season will begin in the spring, usually around May, followed by a peak during the summer months. Business slows after the kids start going back to shool but peaks again during the leaf season. After Thanksgiving, or the end of leaf season (whichever comes first), the streets are quiet until the following spring when we ramp up once again.

This year has been no exception and while the overall numbers are reflective of the downturn in the economy, the pattern is the same.

In June there 25 residential closings, a marked uptick from May when there were only 14 homes closed. For the first time since February, homes in the $200K to $300K price range outpaced any other bracket with a total of 9 closings. In the $100K-$200K range, the numbers dropped off slightly from 9 closings to 5. There were 5 closings in the $300K-$400K range, the most significant increase in that price range since October 2008. Two homes closed in the $400K-$500K range, an increase from the month before. And 3 homes closed in the $500K and up price range, marking the best month in that price range since December 2008.

As a result, the average closing price in June increased to $292,280, a 42% increase over May. It is also nearly a 13% increase over June 2008. The median price was $274,000 for a 39% increase over May and a 29% increase over the same time last year.

For more information about homes and land for sale in the Brevard, NC area, visit the Clay Team online at brevardncproperty.com, or call 828-551-6290/551-6291.

Smell busters

Thu, 09 Jul 2009 08:48:03 -0500

I am looking for some suggestions that I can pass on to our seller. The home is very cute, but has smell issues. In the kitchen, I think it could be the disposal. In the bedroom, it's pet smell.

Does any one have any tried and true methods for eliminating these kinds of smells...and any suggestions for telling a homeowner that their home "stinks"?

Thanks in advance!