Jamie's Blog

Holiday Events in Pinehurst & Southern Pines

Jamie McDevitt (McDevitt Sotheby's International Realty) — Wed, 02 Dec 2009 00:05:12 -0600

The Christmas season in Pinehurst and Southern Pines is wonderful. There are so many traditional events for all ages, from tree lightings to parades to concerts and charity events. For a calendar of all the best holiday events and happenings, just visit: http://www.mcdevitttownandcountry.com/info/pinehurst-nc-events.htm

If you are new to the area or if you are considering moving to Pinehurst, Southern Pines or one of the neighboring communities, attend one of the events on the calendar - you'll be amazed at just how welcome you will feel. If you need any further info about the area, just give us a call at 800-788-8814 or locally at 910-693-7901.

Pinehurst Harness Track

Jamie McDevitt (McDevitt Sotheby's International Realty) — Thu, 15 Oct 2009 22:41:52 -0500

If you call Pinehurst home and you want to experience a little of old Pinehurst, try a visit to the Pinehurst Harness Track this Fall. It's October, and the barns at the Track are starting to fill up with horses and their trainers who winter in Pinehurst so that they can train harness racing standardbreds. In early Spring, don't miss the Matinee race, which is a great social event. And whatever you do, try out the Track Restaurant for breakfast. Best breakfast in town and very fast with great service. They are open for lunch as well. For more info about the Harness Track, visit http://www.mcdevitttownandcountry.com/info/pinehurst-harness-track.html If you are interested in Pinehurst real estate, visit our site at www.mcdevitttownandcountry.com or call us toll free at 800-788-8814.

Concert Series In Aberdeen - Fun For Residents in the Pinehurst Area

Jamie McDevitt (McDevitt Sotheby's International Realty) — Wed, 07 Jan 2009 01:09:42 -0600

The Rooster's Wife Concert Series takes place in Aberdeen, NC at the corner of High St. & Blue St. They have a lot of incredible musicians who participate in the series all year round. John Cowan, who is a true bluegrass star, will be playing on Jan 23, 2009. For more informaiton, visit: http://www.theroosterswife.org Or call 910.944.7502. This is just one of the great events that take place in and around Pinehurst and Southern Pines, NC. Aberdeen is an eclectic community just 3 miles from Southern Pines and within an easy commute to Fort Bragg and Camp Mackall. Because Pinehurst and Southern Pines are such small communities, people who are searching for real estate in the area often express concern that the area might not offer enough cultural activities to suit them. The Rooster's Wife Concert Series is just one of many examples of the many cultural experiences that exist in the Pinehurst Area. All of the concerts and events that they have are very family oriented - especially the Summer events where you can take a picnic and watch the show from the lawn with family and friends. For information about other local events, visit McDevitt Sotheby's International Realty on the web: http://www.mcdevitttownandcountry.com for real estate info. For info about events in particular, click here: Events Calendar for this Month in Pinehurst & Southern Pines You can also call us at 910-693-7901 or toll free at 800-788-8814.

Pinehurst NC Day Trips - Just An Hour From Home

Jamie McDevitt (McDevitt Sotheby's International Realty) — Sat, 27 Dec 2008 21:31:45 -0600

If you are considering buying a Pinehurst NC Home or if you already live in the Pinehurst Southern Pines area, there's plenty to do right here in Moore County. But, Pinehurst is only about an hour from the "Research Triangle" and Raleigh, Durham and Chapel Hill. So, if you decide to branch out at little, there are some wonderful day trips you can take if you have half a day to spare. Here's a list of our favorites: Pinehurst NC Day Trips

For more information about Pinehurst Real estate or homes for sale in the Pinehurst MLS, which includes Southern Pines Real Estate, check out our website at: http://www.mcdevitttownandcountry.com or give us a call at 800-788-8814.

Southern Pines NC Christmas Parade 2008 - The Best Ever

Jamie McDevitt (McDevitt Sotheby's International Realty) — Sat, 06 Dec 2008 21:09:01 -0600

The annual town Christmas Parade was held in Southern Pines today, and the turnout is sure to have been the highest ever. It was great to see so many people with their friends and family to celebrate an annual tradition in greater numbers than ever. With the media constantly trying to convince us that the sky is falling, it was refreshing to be among so many people marking one of the many traditions that make Southern Pines such a wonderful place to call home. We've got a lot to be thankful for even though the economy is struggling. Today was a reminder that things will get better!! If you missed the parade, try and make it next year if you are in the area. For more information about local holiday events, please get in touch with us at 800.788.8814 toll free or 910.693.7901 locally, or visit us on the web at http://www.mcdevitttownandcountry.com Check out holiday events here:

Pinehurst and Southern Pines NC events

Pet Grooming in Pinehurst Area Right in Your Home

Jamie McDevitt (McDevitt Sotheby's International Realty) — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 19:19:54 -0500

Too busy to spend a day taking your pups in for a good grooming? Look no further if you live in or around Pinehurst and Southern Pines, NC - The Driveway Dogs will come to your rescue in their mobile grooming van. They will come to your home anywhere in Moore County. With their state of the art van, they don't even have to bath your pups inside - they've got a pet shower right in the van. When they are done, they leave a "report card" on your kitchen counter with details and anything they found related to the health of your pet. We have 5, count'em 5 dogs and they love Beth and Jenny, who started their mobile grooming business just a couple years ago. They get an 11 on a scale of 1 to 10 because they'll exceed your expectations and your dogs will love them. Plus, your dogs will be so clean and happy, you won't believe it. We recommend Driveway Dogs to every one of our clients and friends, and everyone also has rave reviews, So treat yourself and your furry friends to a visit from DD's. You can also get gift certificates for your friends who really need to get their dogs groomed. You can get in touch with DD's by calling 910-783-WASH, or you can contact us at http://www.mcdevitttownandcountry.com and we'll give you a discount coupon!

The Fields - An Equestrian Community Near Southern Pines NC

Jamie McDevitt (McDevitt Sotheby's International Realty) — Wed, 13 Aug 2008 22:16:25 -0500

The Fields is a wonderful equestrian community located about 15 minutes from Pinehurst NC and Southern Pine NC in the rolling hills near Cameron, NC. The development is gated and is divided into 3 different phases. Phase 1 is virtually sold out. Phase 2 is about 70% sold out, and Phase 3 is under development and will be completed sometime in 2009. The Fields has a community Dressage Ring, a Jumping Ring, a 25 acre field for ground work, AND over 15 miles of trails for riding or walking. There have been some fabulous homes built at the Fields, and there are a few choice lots remaining. Lots at the Fields range from 10 - 20 acres, with most being closer to 10 acres. There are wooded tracts available as well as fully cleared lots. It is great place for horses and horse lovers because of the privacy. There is one lot remaining for $135,000, but most lots average about $16,500 per acre in Phase 2. Prices in Phase 3 will average about $20,000 per acre. For more info, call us at 800-788-8814 or visit: http://www.mcdevitttownandcountry.com or http://www.thefieldsnc.com

Or - go directly to http://www.mcdevitttownandcountry.com/thefields/index.html for detailed info about The Fields.

The Best of Southern Pines - The Sunrise Theater

Jamie McDevitt (McDevitt Sotheby's International Realty) — Sun, 08 Jun 2008 09:01:15 -0500

The Sunrise Theater, it's history and restoration say a lot about Southern Pines and what a wonderful place it is to live. There was a time when the historic theater was down and out. Then in the late 1990's, a group of local citizens decided to rally community support to restore the Sunrise to its original glory - and improve on it. Locals and newcomers alike responded by making contributions on time and money to bring the theater back to life - from a new roof to new seating to a new concession area. The vision was realized. Today, the Sunrise Theater in downtown Southern Pines shows independent films and foreign films. The stage also plays host to some wonderful concerts and plays. For example, the Kingston Trio had a concert at the Sunrise just a few weeks ago. The Sunrise is a real treat and is one of the best things about Southern Pines. The events at the theater are wonderful - and so is the concession stand, where you can get popcorn with real butter and a glass of wine! All of it, though, is really a reflection of the kind of people who live in the area and support the Sunrise. For more info about Southern Pines and the surrounding area, please give us a call at 800-788-8814 or visit us on the web at http://www.mcdevitttownandcountry.com

US Kids Golf World Championship Returns to Pinehurst, July 31 - Aug 2, 2008

Jamie McDevitt (McDevitt Sotheby's International Realty) — Sat, 07 Jun 2008 09:28:02 -0500

The Pinehurst Country Club and golf resort will be hosting the 2008 U.S. Kids Golf World Championship from July 31 - August 2, 2008, followed by the U.S. Kids Golf World Cup. In addition to Pinehurst, a number of other great local clubs will host competition play, including: Little River Golf Club, Longleaf Country Club, Midland Country Club, Mid Pines Golf Club, Talamore Golf Club, The Country Club of Whispering Pines. The World Cup will be held on the famed Pinehurst No. 2 course. Who knows, maybe one of the young competitors will return one day to play in the U.S. Open Golf Tournament at Pinehurst as an adult amateur or professional golfer!

Age Groups begin at 6 and under (boys) and 7 and under (girls) up to 12 year old groups for boys and girls. Qualifying for the tournament is tough and literally takes place all over the world; and tournament champions have come from the US and a number of other countries. Most of the entrants qualify regionally to compete in the event. Some competitors receive invitations based on past performance. In order to make the tournament a true family event, there's even a way for siblings of entrants to receive exemptions to play!

We attended this event last year and it is incredible (and a little humbling) to see how great these young golfers are. Watching children who are not even as tall as your putter hit long drives and chip to within inches on a routine basis is truly incredible. The event attracts families to Pinehurst to enjoy our local hospitality, and the Pinehurst Resort will do a wonderful job for the 3^rd year in a row to make this event one of the best of the year in Pinehurst.

McDevitt Sotheby's International Realty has a limited number of homes available for rent during the week of the tournament. For more information, please contact us at 800-788-8814, visit us on the web at http://www.mcdevitttownandcountry.com

For more info about the tournament in general, visit http://www.uskidsgolf.com/redirect.cfm?locationID=9401

Downtown Southern Pines - A Great Way of Life (and a good way to save money on gas!!)

Jamie McDevitt (McDevitt Sotheby's International Realty) — Tue, 03 Jun 2008 10:28:19 -0500

Downtown Southern Pines is a vibrant walking community full of great restaurants, shops, a theater and parks. With today's high gas prices, living in beautiful downtown Southern Pines can actually save you the time and expense of driving your car. Walk to a restaurant, to see a movie or take your children to the park to play tennis, shoot a few baskets or play at the playground. Most major religious denominations have churches downtown; and Amtrak operates train service from the historic train station downtown with service north to New York and South to Florida. Houses and condos within walking distance of town start in the mid $100,000's and end up in the $300,000's - a great value when you think about all the benefits of living in town. Housing options include historic homes built in the 1920's to brand new condos built in the last few years (some are still under construction). Southern Pines is in close proximity to Fort Bragg, and many of our men and women in the armed services have chosen to call Southern Pines home!! For more info about housing in Southern Pines, please give me a call at 800.788.8814, e-mail me at jamie.mcdevitt@sothebysrealty.com . Also, you can check us out on the web at: http://www.mcdevitttownandcountry.com

Springfest in Southern Pines - A Great Day of Family Fun

Jamie McDevitt (McDevitt Sotheby's International Realty) — Sat, 26 Apr 2008 19:40:28 -0500

Southern Pines, NC proved once again today what a great place it is to raise a family. The town hosted Springfest 2008, and streets lined with vendors, activities, great food, charitable organizations and much more. It was a beautiful day in one of the best small towns in the U.S. McDevitt Sotheby's participated by having several dedicated volunteers and the Moore County Humane Society Booth. At least 4 dogs were adopted today - and children of all ages enjoyed playing with puppies and picking out just the right pet to rescue. It was great to see children with their friends, parents and grandparents enjoying games, rides, live music - not to mention corn dogs and fresh squeezed lemonade. The vendors brought their arts and crafts and other interesting goods to make for a great day of shopping in addition to all of the other fun. If you are interested in property in the Southern Pines or Pinehurst area of NC, we would love to introdiuce you to the area - just give us a call at 800-788-8814. Or, just visit us on the web at http://www.mcdevitttownandcountry.com

Complimentary Lodging While You Shop for Real Estate in Pinehurst, NC

Jamie McDevitt (McDevitt Sotheby's International Realty) — Sat, 12 Apr 2008 09:35:32 -0500

At McDevitt Sotheby's International Realty, we offer complimentary lodging for 2 nights in a golf front condo while you visit Pinehurst to check out the area and look at homes or land. Pinehurst is beautiful especially in the Springtime. In addition to great values in real estate, low property taxes and an incredible lifestyle, the area offers some of the best golf in the world, great restaurants and shopping and above all, great people from all of the US and the world who have decided to make Pinehurst or Southern Pines, NC home. Give me a call at 910-724-4455. e-mail me at jamie.mcdevitt@sothebysrealty.com or visit us on the web at: http://www.mcdevitttownandcountry.com

Record Sale in Southern Pines Horse Country

Jamie McDevitt (McDevitt Sotheby's International Realty) — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 23:12:40 -0500

On February 1, 2008, McDevitt Sotheby's sold a horse farm for $2.3 Million, the highest price on record for a non-commercial property in the Southern Pines area in at least 4 years. The property, in horse country is the second $2 Million Dollar plus sale that the Firm has recorded during the 1st Quarter of 2008. McDevitt Sotheby's has a number of other multi million dollar properties for sale in both Southern Pines and Pinehurst. These extraordinary properties are still selling despite projections of doom for real estate everywhere. For more information about our area, visit our site at http://www.mcdevitttownandcountry.com

A Great Way to Learn About North Carolina - Our State Magazine

Jamie McDevitt (McDevitt Sotheby's International Realty) — Sun, 30 Mar 2008 20:38:53 -0500

If you are thinking of moving to North Carolina, but you don't know much about the State and want to learn more before narrowing down your choices, consider getting a subscription to Our State Magazine. Our State is a great magazine containing articles about North Carolina Places, Events and People - and much more. Naturally, we at McDevitt Sotheby's International Realty think that Pinehurst and Southern Pines are the most wonderful places in the State! But the truth is that North Carolina is full of great places whether you are looking for a new home or just a vacation spot - and there's a special place for every person and every family. We are happy to send you a complimentary copy of Our State to get you started. Just call us at 800-788-8814 or visit us on the web at http://www.mcdevitttownandcountry.com

Or e-mail me personally: jamie.mcdevitt@sothebysrealty.com

Record Sale in Pinehurst

Jamie McDevitt (McDevitt Sotheby's International Realty) — Thu, 27 Mar 2008 21:47:02 -0500

$2.35 MILLION - a record sale for Pinehurst, NC. The highest priced property sold in Pinehurst in over 3 years. Lovely "Shadowlawn" at the edge of Old Town. Truly one of the most exquisite properties, not only in Pinehurst, but in all of North Carolina. Discriminating Buyers recognize both the quality of life and the extraordinary properties located in Pinehurst. If you have a special client, please contact us for information on our portfolio of luxury properties. 800-788-8814 or visit us on the web at: http://www.mcdevitttownandcountry.com

Buyers - Comparison Shopping and Making the Right Real Estate Decisions

Jamie McDevitt (McDevitt Sotheby's International Realty) — Tue, 25 Mar 2008 14:09:17 -0500

If you are in the market for residential real estate, don't confine your search just to properties in your desired price range. It's important to know what you can get for a little less than your budget and what you would get if you spent a little more. The goal is not to spend more than you can afford or to pinch pennies when you don't need to; but rather, to make sure that you get the best value for the money that you do spend. You may find that you can get what you are looking for in a lower price range. At the same time, you may see features in a higher priced home that are very important to you; and then you can narrow your search to houses in your price range that have that particular feature. Visiting properties in an expanded pricing window will also help you identify houses that may be overpriced or underpriced. Obviously, you want to avoid the overpriced property and locate the underpriced property. If you are like the rest of us, your home is one of the biggest investments that you'll ever make. So, make sure that your real estate agent takes the time to broaden your search a bit in order to give you a thorough understanding of the market. Consult a real estate professional in your market for the best advice. For more information about real estate in Pinehurst or Southern Pines, NC, call us toll free at 800-788-8814, or visit us on the web at: http://www.mcdevitttownandcountry.com

Ten Things to Do When Buying a Vacant Lot in Pinehurst NC (or anywhere else)

Jamie McDevitt (McDevitt Sotheby's International Realty) — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 10:47:49 -0500

When choosing a vacant building lot in Pinehurst nc, southern pines nc or any anywhere else, consider these 10 very important things to do or questions to ask:

1. Ask for copies of all existing real estate surveys and consider getting one of your own to make certain that you are aware of any encroachments, easements, etc. on the property.

2. Find out whether public water is available to the lot when you build a new home. If so, what's the tap fee? If not, what is the price range of getting a well drilled? (a range is the best you are likely to get, even from the most reputable companies).

3. Find out if the property has access to a public sewer system. If so, what's the cost of hooking up? If not, what is the cost for constructions of a septic system and what is involved in the permitting?

4. What are the taxes?

5. Are there any homeowners fees or governmental assessments?

6. Are there any building setbacks, restrictive covenants or architectural guidelines that apply to building a new home? Read all of these documents before making an offer to buy. If there is a homeowners' association, don't be shy about calling the association president if you have unanswered questions.

7. What school district is the vacant lot in?

8. What can be built next door to the property?

9. Get a title search and when you buy, make sure that you get a title insurance policy that includes what is called "survey coverage".

10. Find out if there is any pending or threatened moratorium on building new homes. Believe it or not - it happens!

Get all of these questions answered by your real estate broker and by a lawyer who specializes in property and real estate closings. For more information, please also visit us on the web at: http://www.mcdevitttownandcountry.com or call 800-788-8814.

Jamie McDevitt is Broker/Owner of McDevitt Sotheby's International Realty, a full service real estate brokerage serving the Pinehurst and Southern Pines, NC market.

Visit Pinehurst and Enjoy the 2008 U.S. Amateur & Play a Few Rounds Yourself

Jamie McDevitt (McDevitt Sotheby's International Realty) — Sun, 09 Mar 2008 09:40:55 -0500

Pinehurst Travel Plans Should Include the 2008 U.S. Amateur Golf Tournament this August. From August 18-24, Pinehurst will host this prestigious event on two of it's famed courses, Pinehurst No. 4 and the signature course at Pinehurst, Pinehurst No. 2. Stroke play takes place on the first 2 days; and match play continues for the final 5 days. So, for 7 days, you can watch the future of professional golf in one of the most beautiful golf settings in the country. During your stay, schedule a round or two for yourself on one of 40 local world class courses, dine in the many wonderful area restaurants, or shop in the vibrant downtown shopping district of historic Pinehurst and trendy Southern Pines. Pinehurst is easy to reach from the RDU Airport, just 60 miles away in Raleigh. McDevitt Sotheby's International Realty is offering free tickets to it's clients who happen to be in town during this wonderful event. For more information, call 800.788.8814 and visit us on the internet at: http://www.mcdevitttownandcountry.com/

Fun at the Stoneybrook Steeplechase

Jamie McDevitt (McDevitt Sotheby's International Realty) — Sun, 09 Mar 2008 08:39:29 -0500

Thinking about visiting the Pinehurst and Southern Pines area? If so, consider making a trip during the first weekend of April. In addition to being a great time to play golf, the 57th running of the Stoneybrook Steeplechase takes place at the Carolina Horse Park on April 5. The Steeplechase is a full day of fun with family and friends, with a chance to see some very exciting horse racing. If you have a trip scheduled in March, consider visiting the Carolina Horse Park on March 15-16 again March 21-23 to see the Carolina Horse Trials and experience the speed and excitement of Eventing. For more information, call the Carolina Horse Park at 910.246.9808. For general information about the Pinehurst Southern Pines area in general, visit us on the internet at: http://www.mcdevitttownandcountry.com

In a Buyer's Market - Get a Home Inspection Before Listing Your Property

Jamie McDevitt (McDevitt Sotheby's International Realty) — Thu, 06 Mar 2008 07:27:49 -0600

When you are getting ready to list your home and you live in an area where there is a "Buyer's Market", make sure that your house is in great condition before showing it to potential buyers. With more homes out there to choose from, buyers are not going to be hunting for homes in poor condition or in need of a lot of costly repairs. In consultaion with your listing agent, select a qualified home inspector or contractor to inspect your house. Make any necessary repairs before lisitng your house. Your real estate agent can retain the documentation to show to potential buyers and their real estate agents. If there are repairs you do not wish to make, then disclose them to buyers right up front so that they do not get the impression that you are hiding them. Make the point that the repair(s) is needed, and that you have reflected the need for the repair in the price of the house. Remember, though, don't expect to get top dollar for a house that needs a lot of repairs. In our market in Pinehurst and Southern Pines, the market has slowed some - but not as much as in other areas. Amost everywhere, it is a buyer's market to some degree or another. You can greatly improve your sales chances by getting your house in great condition before trying to sell. For more info, please visit us at: http://www.mcdevitttownandcountry.com

Great Golf & Equestrian Property Opportunities for European Buyers

Jamie McDevitt (McDevitt Sotheby's International Realty) — Thu, 06 Mar 2008 05:44:58 -0600

Pinehurst, North Carolina is one of the best golf destinations in the US. In addition to being a great golf resort area, it is also a wonderful place to live. Best of all, it is still very affordable. The easy going quality of life in the area, combined with wonderful restaurants, an abundance of cultural activities, a superb health care community, and easy access to the RDU International Airport - make Pinehurst a perfect place for a second home or investment property for international property seekers. Homes and Condos, with Memberships to the famed Pinehurst Country Club, begin in the $100,000's USD. Pinehurst has a sister town that is the center of Equestrian activity in North Carolina. In Southern Pines, NC, hundreds of horse farms dot the landscape less than 5 miles from Pinehurst. Horse farms are available beginning in the $300,000's USD. Vacant tracts of horse property are also available in the area, beginning under $100,000 USD. When travelling to the US, don't miss Pinehurst and Southern Pines, especially if you have an interest in golf or horses. It is the perfect location for couples who pursue both interests to enjoy their hobbies year round in an area that combines small town charm with big city sophistication. For more information, visit us at: http://www.mcdevitttownandcountry.com

Healthy Real Estate Market in Pinehurst

Jamie McDevitt (McDevitt Sotheby's International Realty) — Thu, 17 Jan 2008 07:41:03 -0600

2007 was a great year for the pinehurst nc real estate market. Even though overall sales volume in the area was down about 4%, average home prices were up 3% compared to 2006. The bottom line - Pinehurst is a great place to invest in real estate, whether you are relocating or just looking for a second home or a transitional home. The area has a great climate, friendly people, a lot of amenities including world class golf - plus the low real estate prices and low taxes make homes a great value. For more information, visit us at: http://www.mcdevitttownandcountry.com

Southern Pines Area Horse Farm Maintenance - Contact Info You Can Use

Jamie McDevitt (McDevitt Sotheby's International Realty) — Mon, 14 Jan 2008 22:33:11 -0600

Farm Maintenance

When you own a horse farm, you will need help from time to time even if you have your own equipment and do most of your own work. Several local farm maintenance companies provide excellent service. When considering the purchase of a farm or vacant land to build a farm, the cost of maintaining pastures, correcting drainage problems, over seeding, fertilizing and mowing must be factored into any buying decision. At McDevitt Sotheby's International Realty, we have first hand knowledge about who to call for all of your farm maintenance needs whether you need to clear timber to create pastures or if you simply need to have soil analyzed to choose the right fertilizer.

Local Farm Maintenance Companies

Knollbrook Farm (Rod Lynch): (910) 692-4642 (office): (910) 315-6886 (cell)

Any type of earth moving, pasture clearing, farm road building/maintenance, seeding, fertilizing and general farm maintenance. Mowing.

Huberth Farm Service (Harry Huberth): (910) 692-5331. Specializing in farm maintenance, seeding, fertilizing, drainage issues, consulting on pasture stability and environmentally friendly farm maintenance. Mowing.

Mike's Backhoe Service: (Mike Simpson): (910) 245-3483. Earth moving, clearing and excavation including trenching and installation of septic systems.

Banfield Backhoe Service: (Jeff Banfield): (910) 315-3821. Mowing, seasonal seeding, excavation, brush clearing.

Superior Tree Svc. (Steve Farr): Tree removal and waste management:(910) 639-2180. Excavation and hauling of material, clearing, tree removal, brush removal, demolition.

Erik Parbst Land Clearing: (Erik Parbst): (910) 639-4983 or (910) 692-5891. Brush clearing, driveway/road maintenance. Mowing. Excavation.

For more info, visit us at: http://www.mcdevitttownandcountry.com

Marketing Your Horse Farm - What You Need to Know

Jamie McDevitt (McDevitt Sotheby's International Realty) — Mon, 14 Jan 2008 22:12:13 -0600

Guidelines for Marketing Your Horse Farm or Equestrian Estate

The idea of watching horses grazing peacefully outside the back door is a dream-come-true for many horse farm buyers. So, if you are planning on selling a horse farm or other equestrian real estate, there are some details that potential buyers will consider in addition to the pastoral image of rolling hills and endless fences. When you are preparing to market your home, you should always make an effort to get it ready with a thorough cleaning and a few repair items. A horse farm is no different; and potential purchasers of horse farms are usually just as concerned about their horses as they are about themselves. If you are selling a horse farm, here are some important details that you should consider addressing and a few tips to make your farm or horse property attractive to buyers:

The Barn: While barns are difficult to keep clean, make sure that you are doing your best! Get rid of cobwebs, keep barn aisles swept, and make sure stalls are "mucked" with fresh shavings before all showings. Consider purchasing rubber mats for each stall. While relatively inexpensive for the seller, most buyers ask if stalls have rubber mats and consider them a necessity.

Fencing: Prior to putting your farm on the market, evaluate the current fencing to make sure all fence boards are intact; and replace any old boards if necessary. If you plan to install fencing before putting your property on the market, wood fencing is the most appealing to potential buyers. Wood is traditionally beautiful and generally safe. Whatever kind of fencing that you use, remember that the primary job of a fence is to safely contain horses. The last thing you want a buyer to be concerned about is a horse escaping or getting hurt. That said, the aesthetics of your fencing will add appeal and beauty to your horse property.

Pastures and Turn Outs: On every horse farm, there should be ample room to turn out horses. Just as stalls should be kept clean, so should the turn outs. Mucking as well as mowing and trimming, especially in the spring and summer, is often necessary to keep the pastures maintained and groomed.

Arenas: Your equestrian estate or farm should have an existing arena or room to accommodate one. Don't underestimate the cost of building an area or improving an existing one. Footing is a considerable investment that will affect the soundness of horses and the amount of maintenance the area will require. Keeping the arena dragged and manicured is also important. While horse enthusiasts love a trail ride, many of the equestrian buyers coming to our area are serious competitors and use an arena almost daily.

Follow the above tips and your horse property will be ready to show!!

Jamie McDevitt is the owner of McDevitt Sotheby's International Realty, located in Southern Pines and Pinehurst. She is the area's leading horse farm and equestrian real estate broker. For more information and some examples of expertly

marketed horse property, go to: http://www.mcdevitttownandcountry.com/

Pinehurst NC - A great value in Golf Property

Jamie McDevitt (McDevitt Sotheby's International Realty) — Mon, 14 Jan 2008 21:42:57 -0600

I moved to pinehurst from L.A. 12 years ago, and wish I had made the move much earlier! Homes in Pinehurst, NC are a fraction of the cost of the west coast - and the lifestyle here is wonderful. The people are great, and hail from all over the US and the world. Pinehurst is like heaven for golfers. Homes in Pinehurst with a membership to the world famous Pinehurst Country Club can still be purchased from the $200,000's to well over $1 Million. For more info, visit http://www.mcdevitttownandcountry.com