Gabe Swinney -Asheville New Urbanism and Traditional Neighborhood Developments

Looking back at the first Asheville Halloween M.O.N.S.T.E.R. Jam

Gabe Swinney Asheville New Urbanism (Gabe Swinney) — Thu, 20 Nov 2008 10:38:45 -0600

Well, Halloween this year was one for the record books. First time I ever dressed at the command of a three-year-old, (Ruby insisted I be a pirate) the most trick-or-treaters I have ever had, (we turned out the light after handing out over one thousand pieces of candy!) and it was the scene for the first Hickory Nut Forest M.O.N.S.T.E.R Jam. If you would like to know what the acronym stands for I will refer you back to other blogs, however I can sum it up by saying that it is all of the good stuff, words like sustainability, eco, and mountain. We started off preparing for the event by gathering a modest thousand apples or so from the Eco-Communities organic orchard, probably the last major pick of the year. These delicious little prizes went one after another into the cider press as friends new and old arrived to mingle and play on what was one of the most beautiful fall days this season. The trail system was being explored by some of the more curious of the guests and the children couldn't take their eyes off the balloons, or the bags of candy they were tied to. It is hard to have a bad day when there is bluegrass music playing and people laughing, and that was certainly the case at the Hickory Nut Forest M.O.N.S.T.E.R. Jam.

If you were there then you know and if you couldn't make it, well then we hope to see you next year.

New Asheville Hiking Trail

Gabe Swinney Asheville New Urbanism (Gabe Swinney) — Thu, 20 Nov 2008 10:33:26 -0600

Asheville Eco Community Hickory Nut Forest has been getting people together for various events over the past several months. This November the sustainable community is hosting the inaugural trek along the new Hickory Nut Gorge Trail. Many people from the Asheville area are expected to attend this exciting event. The hike will be followed a by a pot luck style dinner as well as bonfire. To me this sounds like a great chance to get out into the woods and explore with good people; and there are few things I like more then sitting around a bonfire and enjoying nature with my friends and family, there is just something about that glow after twilight especially when accompanied by the sound of a creek running by that seems to tie together an otherwise ordinary night and make it a holiday. The Asheville area has such a love for things like these; hiking, food, camp-fires, and community; and these are some of the reasons that this is such a special place to live.

Feel free to give me a call if you would like more information about this event, or would just like to know more about sustainability in Asheville, NC.

What to do for Halloween - Asheville NC

Gabe Swinney Asheville New Urbanism (Gabe Swinney) — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 10:20:38 -0500

Hey there this is my spooktacular second installment of a short series focusing on what to do around Asheville, NC this Halloween season. In the last blog we looked at two of the best trick or treat haunts and talked briefly about events. This time I want to talk more specifically about events. Three in particular that seem to focus on fun for the whole family.

One I want toalk about is the MONSTER Jam out at Hickory Nut Forest. This event features family entertainment in the form of costume contests, pumpkin carving, guided trail treasure hunts, and more. I think the two chief strengths of this Halloween event is that its location is stunning, nestled out in the mountains of Gerton outside Asheville the setting couldn't be more alluring. Secondly, the MONSTER Jam is set for Sunday the 26th, leaving Halloween itself open to explore more of the community events. Another exciting event is held out in Brevard on Halloween day; this event is the Tranysylvania Countys contribution to the season; it features a costume parade, bike rodeo, pumpkin carving and lots of Halloween fun, lastly I wanted to mention the Ghost and Goblins in the Gardens event which takes place on the 28th. This sounds awesome with costumed guides and spooky Halloween characters along the way as you make your way through UNCA's Botanical Gardens.

I hope to see you all out there at these events and in the neighborhood trick or treating this Halloween in Asheville, NC.

Asheville Halloween

Gabe Swinney Asheville New Urbanism (Gabe Swinney) — Mon, 13 Oct 2008 14:25:16 -0500

It is that time again in Asheville, North Carolina. The leaves are changing, the shadows are growing a little longer, and the nights have taken on a certain surreal enchanting indicative of those last few weeks before Halloween. Asheville Halloween is a wonderful and exciting holiday, the only trouble is people often don't know exactly where to go to enjoy this time of year with their community. And so I wanted to take a moment to write about some of the things that I know are going on and that make this one of my favorite times of year.

First and foremost on most people's mind when it comes to Halloween is trick-or-treating. For this time honored night time walk around town I have to suggest heading to either Black Mountain or Brevard, NC. Black Mountain transforms from the quaint picturesque little village that it is into a Mardi Gras for kids of all ages. Hundreds if not thousands of children come out with their families, the city closes some of the streets, and lots of spooky and sugary fun ensues. Brevard also hosts masses of happy trick-or-treaters during Halloween. And after all it is in Transylvania County!

I also really want to talk about the Monster Jam at Hickory Nut Forest. This Halloween season outside Asheville, NC Hickory Nut Forest is inviting out the community to come and join them out in the mountains nestled in hundreds of acres of conservation easements for their first annual Monster Jam; Monster being a Green Halloween inspired acronym for Mountain Music, Organic Foods, Natural Building, Sustainable Living, Treasure Hunt, Eco-Friendly, Renewable Energy. A little wordy maybe but still lots of good stuff. The event should consist of pumpkin carving, Halloween costume contests, guided trail treasure hunts, and organic snacks throughout the day. They are also encouraging everyone to brings their instruments and really make it a "Monster Jam". The event is slotted for the Sunday before Halloween, the 26th, so it should be a great chance to get the family out and really kick off the Asheville Halloween season. I look forward to seeing you there.

Asheville, Halloween is a great time of year, one that really showcases the fun loving creative spirit that our area is so loved for. I myself can't wait.

Asheville Traditional Neighborhood Developments

Gabe Swinney Asheville New Urbanism (Gabe Swinney) — Mon, 05 May 2008 10:01:37 -0500

Asheville traditional neighborhood developments are a growing force in the Asheville real estate market. No surprise there, with so many people moving to the mountains of North Carolina from out of state, developers are taking advantage of every opportunity to receive them. A substantially large portion of the new arrivals are people moving up from Florida. The Florida market was more or less the hometown for the concept of New Urbanism, largely put forward by Seaside and than followed by such communities as Rosemary Beach and Celebration. What are some of the things these traditional neighborhood developments have in common? Well for one the share a history of massive rates of appreciation, and secondly they share national recognition as groundbreaking concepts, resort communities, and general tourist destinations. Makes sense that the Asheville area would be open to this relatively new style of development.

There are other reasons for traditional neighborhood developments to do well in Asheville. Some of the basic principals behind New Urbanism harmonize nicely with some of the mind sets that Asheville has become famous for. Another name for the traditional neighborhood development is transit minded community, meaning that the planning for these towns keeps in mind making transportation to amenities and work simple, efficient, and environmentally friendly. Traditional Neighborhoods are built around a "town center", a sort of hub for the community to gather for events, activities, or just about anything you can think of. The people of Asheville are well known for loving to get together and have a good time. Anyone who has ever been to Asheville on a Friday night in the spring has witnessed a town teaming with happiness, life, and enthusiasm. One more thing that the principals of traditional neighborhood developments have in common with Asheville is the struggle to control sprawling development. Many people in Asheville have very strong feelings against new sprawling development which they feel threatens to change the wonderful culture and image their fair city enjoys. New Urbanist communities are intentionally designed to create and draw together communities while preventing urban sprawl. The lot sizes in TND's are smaller and homes are often built more vertically than horizontally. The anti-sprawl effect is considered one of the chief virtues of Traditional Neighborhood Developments.

And so it seems to just make sense that with so many new arrivals to the Asheville area every year that the new urbanist traditional neighborhood development is a great tool to provide communities for the new residents. With change being inevitable we must do the best we can to make these changes for the best.

Asheville Vacation Rentals

Gabe Swinney Asheville New Urbanism (Gabe Swinney) — Mon, 28 Apr 2008 09:15:58 -0500

Asheville vacation rentals are now a powerful and growing force in the Asheville, NC real estate market. Why is this? The answer seems fairly simple and yet is made up of a few different factors.

For one thing the tourism and vacation industry has been growing by leaps and bounds over the last several years. People now come to Asheville to vacation from all over the world. They call the city and its surrounding mountains, shangri-la, the Paris of the South, and the happiest city in the nation. Naturally the Asheville vacation rental business is doing just fine amidst such heavy praise. The appeal is also multi-faceted. Some people come for the culture and the history filling their vacation itinerary with tours of the Biltmore house, the Grove Park Inn, and the countless summer festivals. Some others come to Asheville for the outdoor recreation. After all, even if Asheville is only recently becoming common knowledge it has long since been legendary among the river kayakers, mountain bikers, rock climbers, whitewater rafters, backpackers, and fly fishers. It just makes sense that Asheville vacation rentals are in demand.

The other big factor, as far as I can see, is the national market being in something of a "slump" at the moment. In the last five years or so Asheville has been experiencing an enormous influx of new residents. Every income bracket was practically forming a wagon train and setting there sights on the blue ridge mountains around Asheville. The current market however has made it difficult for some potential immigrants to sell property other places. This has not made them forget there goals by any length. Every day I talk to several people who are just waiting for the market to turn so they can move to Asheville. Obviously this has not effected everyone in the same way. The demographic with free capital is taking full advantage of the best buyers market in years by investing in areas like Asheville, NC, Breckenridge CO, or other desirable parts of the nation. But for all the rest of us who need to wait before we can buy this is no time to remain idle. Now is the time to visit and get a feel for the Asheville area, to build relationships, and get an eye for what you really want from such a diverse area. And once again, the Asheville vacation home owner benefits.

So, it seems that amidst a constantly shifting economy the Asheville vacation rental is a flexible and thriving investment. And I look forward to meeting you when you get here.

Gabe Swinney

Welcome to the New Urbanism and Traditional Neighborhood Development Group!

Gabe Swinney Asheville New Urbanism (Gabe Swinney) — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 14:53:27 -0500

I settled in the Asheville region after leaving Alaska so that I could be closer to my family. After getting established I became interested in new urbanism and the communities that were being designed alongside it's principals. I have been fortunate enough to have traveled extensively within our great country. And my favorite places have been those that have clung to a sense of community against the tide of urban sprawl. Traditional Neighborhood Developments seem to encourage the values that bring communities together. I once had a philosophy teacher who told me, " If you ever want to be rich or successful all you have to do is find something forgotten in the past and re-invent it." The planners, architects, and developers who are behind this growing trend are doing just that. They have taken it upon themselves to re-invent the American community, something to many of us have just learned to just live without.

Traditional Neighborhood Developments such as Seaside, Celebration, and Rosemary Beach have come on the scene and dramatically changed the way America looks at development. And as the old saying goes, money talks, these developments have experienced almost unheard of rates of appreciation. Only natural, as America notices the benefits of new urbanism and starts on it's way home.

Asheville New Urbanism

Gabe Swinney Asheville New Urbanism (Gabe Swinney) — Fri, 07 Mar 2008 10:29:44 -0600

Asheville New Urbanism

New Urbanism is a powerful growing force in the Asheville green real estate market. In many ways the traditional neighborhood design is a knight in shining armor for the Asheville area during this time of rapid growth. one of the reasons for this praise is that New Urbanism inherently works against urban sprawl. This development design standard also tends to attract a demographic who appreciate green development, community, and the great outdoors. All of these things are values that Asheville is known for.

The amazing growth that the Asheville region has been experiencing has raised many questions about maintaining our unique sense of place as well as our environmental standards. As growth is unavoidable the best course of action is responsible growth. This is where sustainable development comes into play. New Urbanism ties together housing, resteraunts, jobs, and basic amenities. This type of planning therefore focuses growth in a responsible way while simultaneously enriching the sense of community and therefore the quality of life.

There are currently some developments who have embraced these standards around Asheville and a few more up and coming. The Village of Cheshire in Black Mountain and Breakaway just to the north of Asheville are two outstanding examples.

One thing that is for sure is that life is good here in "the happiest city in the country", and things are getting better all the time.

Asheville Land

Gabe Swinney Asheville New Urbanism (Gabe Swinney) — Thu, 28 Feb 2008 13:06:26 -0600

Over the years I have been privileged to have lived in and visited many wonderful places. Asheville, North Carolina is one of the places that I am most proud of having in my life. Seeing this fair city develop and gain the fame and respect she deserves could be likened to dating a girl in high-school who would one day become a movie star and warmly watching her glowing career assured that she still loves you. It is true that more and more people continue to move here trying to see what the "happiest city in the country" has in store for them. And even though this place seems to draw the socially and environmentally conscious it can still be a tad bit unnerving to witness such growth. Sometimes its enough to make me consider switching careers from sustainable real estate and conservation to straight up conservation.

All in all, Asheville, NC and its surrounding rivers, hills, plains, springs, waterfalls, mountains, and ridges are a dream to live in and having a chance to watch the organic garden of its society grow is a great privilege that I am overwhelmingly grateful for.

Thanks for giving me a chance to do what I do best.

Asheville Waterfall Properties

Gabe Swinney Asheville New Urbanism (Gabe Swinney) — Mon, 18 Feb 2008 13:01:46 -0600

Asheville Waterfall Properties

As a green real estate agent I have many workplaces. Sometimes my office is my car sometimes its the local coffee shop. I could just as easily find myself on a ridge top as the actual office itself. That being said, some of my favorite places of work are the Asheville waterfalls. And there are millions of gallons of them. There are few things I know of in this world that are more relaxing, enchanting, and soul cleansing than the sound of falling water. Bearing witness to the mountain springs as they tumultuously careen their way down the slopes eventually join the French Broad or Catawba rivers is certainly one of the jewels in the Asheville crown.

A lot of Asheville's waterfall properties are protected by the state or federal government, set aside for the enjoyment of the public in places like Pisgah National Forest or Dupont State Park. There are still many waterfall properties on the market today some developed and some undeveloped. I think that there are probably more substantial Asheville area waterfalls than any one person knows for sure. They tend to pop up a sometimes unexpected highlight to land and property,

I was recently thinking about my time backpacking in Maine. I remember that even though I found myself surrounded by pristine peace and beauty there was always something going on in my head. Some song or stupid jingle from a commercial I heard when I was twelve. The only thing I know that ever just quieted my mind and smoothed out all of the nonsense was the sound of flowing water.

Now that things are busier than ever I am thankful that the Asheville waterfall properties are one of the places I work...and play.

black and white courtesy of John Narrin

Asheville Conservation Land Broker

Gabe Swinney Asheville New Urbanism (Gabe Swinney) — Wed, 13 Feb 2008 10:04:48 -0600

Asheville Conservation Land Broker

Lately I have been thinking quite a bit about what an adventure working on land deals around Asheville, North Carolina is. The familiarity with the land that is demanded by this work makes me reminiscent of my time working in the Alaskan Wilderness. These days there are so many factors and big players stepping up to the Western North Carolina mountains that it can often be complicated as well as a test of one's ethics. I believe that it is at times like these that we must cling to our values the strongest.

I can fondly remember so many nights in the wilderness wrapped snuggly inside a sleeping bag and pouring my mind over a map by the light of my head lamp before closing my eyes for a well earned rest. These days the office has transformed from a tent to a remodeled bungalow in West Asheville. I get less rest, and I have to leave the head lamp at home. However, the map is still there. Sitting around the table with my associates drawing lines with our fingers across the sections of a large topographical map. Climbing its mountains with our finger-nails and getting excited over the hundreds of "pocket-gems" that the map subtly insinuates.

Asheville real estate, and in particular Asheville land, is in high demand. And it is in demand by a very diverse demographic. It is not uncommon to be contacted by serious groups looking to sustainably develop land as a green housing compound or start an organic farm that end up going head to head with other developers with a taste for plastic, clear cuts, and a vulnerability to land slides. I have heard other brokers say things about how they would love to work with more sustainable developers but the money is the most important thing. Perhaps that is true to some extent. I see this mentality as not working hard enough to make your deals work the right way. I believe that responsible land brokerage means conserving the things that make the Asheville area so desirable in the first place.

So these days my tent and head-lamp have to wait for the occasional weekend excursion. But the spirit of my adventures in the woods is embodied in my business, and I have every intention of holding true to the values that I learned out there.

Asheville Greenways

Gabe Swinney Asheville New Urbanism (Gabe Swinney) — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 13:54:44 -0600

Asheville, North Carolina the shining green star of the east is closing in on another fantastic innovation that will permanently improve the quality of life in Western North Carolina. The Asheville Greenways Plan will soon connect the lives of thousands of residents in a whole new way. After all, what is better than a walk down a trail on a beautiful day? Now imagine if some of your favorite trails that you hike, bike, or just meander down could be transplanted and dropped in place to connect your neighborhood and your place of work or perhaps your downtown. If you can visualize that then your starting to catch a glimpse of the future in Asheville and its surrounding towns.

Already well underway, when the Asheville Greenways Project is complete there will be a minimum of 14 corridors and 29 miles of trails connecting the lives of the good people who call this place home. Just think about spending a Sunday walking along a tunnel of conservation and quality of life with your family while on your way to town for lunch or ice cream. Greenways are everything sidewalks hope to be when they grow up.

Almost everybody is waiting with much enthusiastic anticipation for the finished product: everyone that is except all of the outdoor enthusiasts. No, the famous Asheville outdoorsman and outdoorswoman are furious about the new trails. These runners, bikers, hikers, etc. who have spent years trying to get to know all of the natural wonder of the Asheville area are upset at the new work load. Do you have any idea how taxing it is to try and hike all the trails around Asheville let alone remember all of there names you can impress your friends? " I am just exhausted, how am I ever going to learn about all these trails if they keep adding more?!", is a common remark to hear around some of the Asheville area's outdoor outfitters. All I can say is that I am very excited about the Asheville Greenways Project, and I am really sorry for all of those poor tired outdoor enthusiasts.

Asheville Green Building and Real Estate

Gabe Swinney Asheville New Urbanism (Gabe Swinney) — Thu, 07 Feb 2008 08:27:57 -0600

A Day in the Life of: Asheville Green Building and Real Estate

This is just a brief peek into today and my adventures in Asheville's green building and real estate market. Although today should be pretty busy it is more or less a typical day and a good indicator of several parts of the green real estate brokerage process.

First thing is first. That means getting up early and heading to the local Black Mountain coffee shop, The Dripolator, to touch base with various clients and write something on ActiveRain about what I am going to do today. Great part of the day, sitting at the window watching the sleepy mountain town spring to life while I sip my green-tea.

Next thing is next. In a few minute I will "head up the hill" to a small development that I think of as one of the best kept secrets in the greater Asheville area. I offered to give a green builder friend of mine a hand working on the foundation of a spec house he recently started. I love getting my hands dirty from time to time; it is good for the soul.

After I have enough fun with construction I will hop on over to meet some other friends of mine from a conservation non-profit and go preview a sustainable development as a possible venue for an environmental contribution award ceremony that we are working on together.

Lastly assuming all has gone well, I will head back to Black Mountain to meet some of my old clients at the Pisgah Brewing Company to sip a fresh organic brew and talk about how good life is here; one of our favorite past times.

Buying Asheville Green Real Estate

Gabe Swinney Asheville New Urbanism (Gabe Swinney) — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 10:54:59 -0600

Buying Asheville Green Real Estate

Something you hear a lot around our office when considering Asheville green real estate is the question, "what is important to you?". This is really a doozie of a query because of the nature of sustainable building. Some people are drawn to Asheville because they have a conservation mindset and want to belong to a community that tries to uphold these values. There are those that want to buy green because they know that it is an intelligent investment, the look at how green homes appreciate and sell and that is all they need to know. Some also seek the recognition that comes with owning a high performance home, similar to the mentality of buying a luxury automobile. Regardless of what stirs you to buy or build green, once the sustainable choice is made there are a myriad of questions to follow.

Now, what are the green features that are important to you? I think my personal green dream looks a lot like the wood cutter's cottage from Snow White, only with radiant floor heating tied to solar hot water and a wind generator next store. I would be singing to all the little animals everyday.

But again, how about you? If you were moving to Asheville and wanted to buy green but the market only had homes with three green features each, which three would make one right for you? Would you start on the inside and make sure that your materials were as sustainable and healthy as possible, i.e. zero VOC paints and materials, bamboo or other alternative flooring, maybe even exciting water conserving fixtures. Or would these considerations take the back seat to energy conservation and green power such as icynene insulation or solar voltaic cells?

It can sound a tad bit overwhelming, especially for someone like me who has never really liked shopping. Really though it is such a fun and exciting process. One that I enjoy every single time I am a part of it. So it remains the Asheville green real estate question: what is important to you?

Grove Park Inn Macon Ave. Real Estate

Gabe Swinney Asheville New Urbanism (Gabe Swinney) — Wed, 30 Jan 2008 13:36:38 -0600

The Grove Park Inn on Macon Avenue in Asheville, North Carolina is one of the regions most legendary sites. You name it and you can have it around the Grove Park Inn. Luxury, relaxation, beauty, history, and perhaps even a brush with the supernatural are all things that this part of Macon Avenue are famous for. The Grove Park Inn itself draws visitors form all over the world and Macon Avenue real estate is some of the most sought after in the Asheville area.

The famous Grove Park Inn was completed in 1913. It was the dream of a man named E.W. Grove. Grove had made his fortune peddling a miracle elixir that at one point was outselling Coca-Cola. The giant resort was constructed out of granite boulders hauled from the local Sunset Mountain and modeled after the grand railway hotels of the American west. The setting was flawless, overlooking Asheville, North Carolina, the happiest city in the country like a stone monarch. A fitting counterpart to the nearby Biltmore Estate.

The landmark on Macon Avenue was not spared an ounce of captivating history, welcoming into its grand hall numerous presidents and legendarily distinguished guests. The Grove Park Inn is also famous as a haunted landmark. For more than three quarters of a century hotel employees and patrons have been reporting sightings of the Grove Park's Pink Lady. Believed to be the earth bound spirit of a young girl who tragically fell to her death on the grand hall, the Pink Lady has become a fascinating part of the Grove Park Inn's mystique.

Working with Macon Avenue real estate is working with part of the ongoing story of this splendid part of our region. The homes between The Grove Park Inn and Asheville's thriving downtown area generally as beautiful and historic as they are sought after.

Grove Park Photography

Asheville Housing Market

Gabe Swinney Asheville New Urbanism (Gabe Swinney) — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 10:54:32 -0600

You don't have to search to deep with Google to find out that Asheville's housing market is still in pretty good shape. Their are many many reports and blogs on this subject. This is a comforting fact for someone like me, who works in the Asheville Real Estate Market but listens to dark speculation about the national market every day on my way to work. What we are currently faced with is not a depression but a ridiculous amount of opportunity.

I have heard other brokers say to me and their clients that Asheville is still a sellers market. I think this is true only so far. We have been effected by the national housing market slump and scare in the sense that our growth has slowed down a little. This slowing has been caused by the fact that people caught up in injured markets other places in the country are having trouble selling before they can move or retire to Western North Carolina. The thing about it is, we live in America, and although I may not always agree with the actions of our country, I believe in the greatness we share here. People in the United States will not allow things to go to bad. We are a tenacious people gifted with the ability to build our dreams. And even if the season of our economy or housing market nears winter, the wise investor will be preparing for spring. The continued growth of Asheville and a few other markets in America are the ripples on the water that indicate a big fish to the fisherman. Asheville is not a seller's market, it is an investors market as well as the market for families still trying to build a better and greener American Dream.

When the national housing market turns around, which is inevitable with so many intelligent people working to solve the problem, all of the potential energy built up during this slump will be unleashed and those people who have been brave enough to invest in the right markets will reel in all of the benefits. Happy 2008!

Asheville Sustainable Developments

Gabe Swinney Asheville New Urbanism (Gabe Swinney) — Tue, 22 Jan 2008 16:45:55 -0600

Asheville real estate has taken a turn for the green. With Western North Carolina quickly becoming America's number 1 place to relocate and Asheville unveiled as the happiest city in the nation, more and more developers are trying to find a way to do what they do with the limited mountain terrain. Some of those developers, who will remain nameless for the purpose of this article, have little interest in preserving the spectacular natural setting that actually draws their prospects here. These developers only see the golden opportunity to capitalize on a good thing.

However, there are many other developments that are trying to simultaneously embrace Asheville's sustainable mindset and the ripe real estate market that makes it possible to develop. One large example of these sustainable developers is Creston. Creston, which is located between Black Mountain and Chimney Rock, has absolutely earned its reputation for a true conservation community. The Creston development is made up of 11,000 stunning acres with giant views in every direction. In my opinion Creston's largest contribution to the environment is the environment. By that I am eluding to the hundreds upon hundreds of acres they have set aside in conservation easements.

Another great example is the green in-fill project and traditional neighborhood development that is Gaia. Nestled within walking distance of thriving West Asheville, Gaia ties together some of the most sought after green features such as solar hot water and radiant floor heating, with a traditional village atmosphere comfortably placed around common green space. It is truly a beautiful design.

And so the Asheville real estate market continues to grow. I for one believe that Asheville will continue to grow in a green and sustainable direction. It just makes sense that America's happiest city would be its flagship for sustainable development.

Asheville Green Building

Gabe Swinney Asheville New Urbanism (Gabe Swinney) — Fri, 18 Jan 2008 12:16:28 -0600

"The Asheville green building business is booming, they just cant build them fast enough!", I overheard a man say at my favorite local fair-trade coffee shop the other day. And you know what, he was right. The growing real estate development in Western North Carolina has absolutely shown us where the demand is: Green Sustainable Development. And now contractors and real estate investors are scrambling to create the supply. It is so refreshing to see a trend that reflects the healthy interests of the market. It is also nice to know that local government is following suit, for example back in 2006 Asheville City Council passed a resolution ensuring that all new municipal buildings are up to LEED specifications.

Many different states now have some sort of program going beyond Energy Star specifications, setting a new standard for sustainable development. North Carolina's version of the new standard is called the Healthy Built Homes Program. Environmentally minded and profit minded builders are quickly adopting this new standard, as the numbers clearly show. There are currently 97 Healthy Built Homes in Western NC and guess how many under construction, not 100, not 200, not even 300, but 492!!! Can you believe it? Amazing!

One of the best and most respected resources for green building in Asheville is the Western North Carolina Green Building Council. The WNCGBC began modestly eight years ago when five building visionaries gathered for dinner to share their common love for education about sustainable building practices. The council has now grown into a major identity in the Asheville Green Community.

It warms my heart. I cant say for sure what is going to happen, but the future looks bright here in Asheville, North Carolina, the happiest city in America.

Asheville Green Buyer's Agent

Gabe Swinney Asheville New Urbanism (Gabe Swinney) — Wed, 16 Jan 2008 10:45:18 -0600

For me, being a green buyer's agent in Asheville, North Carolina is the only way I could work as a real estate broker. The are many reasons for this, from a passion for this area to my commitment to a sustainable relationship with our environment.

Asheville's realty market has been growing in great ways over the last several years. Even this year's housing slump has only highlighted its desirability as it remained one of the last healthy markets in the nation. To name just a couple of contrasting accolades; Asheville was named "Best Southern Town" by Outside Magazine as well as the number one most popular place to retire according to Topretirements.com. This kind of growth and attention has brought out a lot real estate agents. There are a lot of brokers in the Asheville area doing just what traditional real estate agents do, trying to get every listing they can get their hands on. I don't see any problem with this mind set, I guess, it just isn't how I do business. My background before becoming an Asheville real estate professional was mostly focused on conservation, service, and wilderness guiding. My experience has helped shape my business. I prefer to work as a buyer's agent because for me it is more like acting as an interpreter and guide in a place that I love. I am not out there hunting down listings, I am getting to know like minded clients and helping them hunt down their dreams. It may be a little non-traditional to meet clients on a hiking trail to discuss options or to explore the local resteraunts before the local properties...but hey, Asheville is a pretty non-traditional city.

I feel like it is much easier to build relationships as a buyer's agent. For one thing, payment is generally coming from the seller's side. With money out of the way it makes it a lot easier for people to trust me. Also, because I am not representing the property, people can feel secure that they are finding out all the information that is important to them and that nothing is hidden. Being a green buyer's broker has more in common with being a well informed and helpful friend than it does with any other professional relationship. And that is the only way I would have it.

Asheville, North Carolina - The Happiest City in the Nation

Gabe Swinney Asheville New Urbanism (Gabe Swinney) — Mon, 14 Jan 2008 15:19:32 -0600

Living and working in the Asheville green real estate market is not just day to day life for me... it is kind of an obsession. This fact is not hidden from my family and friends. And the result is much the same as it is for many of us these days when our family and friends know something about us...they forward every single piece of information remotely pertaining to your favored subject straight to your email. I could write a small book containing all the accolades our fair city is honored with, and in turn is sent to my in-box. The heart of the matter is that people just love it here and they like to sing, paint, or write about it.

Yesterday I came upon a very great distinction for Asheville. It seems that there was a piece recently on ABC's 20/20 exploring something we all want: happiness. Part of the coverage went over journalist Eric Weiner's new novel, "The Geography of Bliss". In his book Eric travels the world doing research about happiness. I will let you read the book to find out where people are the happiest in the entire world. But, you guessed it, Asheville, North Carolina was named the happiest city in America. Why is this do you think? Anyone who knows Asheville or happens to read my blog, know at least a few of the reasons; the natural beauty, music, art, culture, and mindfulness are always on the list. Thinking about it brings to mind a book my mother gave me several years ago, "The Alchemist" by Paulo Ceolho. At one point in this wonderful story the protagonist hears a story about the meaning of life or some other huge elusive truth. I can recall that it had something to do with one being given a spoon containing some oil and then being asked to talk a long walk through an elaborate and richly ornamented castle. The challenge however was to not spill any of the oil and still take in all the wonders of the castle. This anecdote reminds me of Asheville because Asheville seems to be a city that never lost any of the charm, warmth, and magic of a small town during it's sometimes rapid growth.

I love it here.

Asheville Green Commercial Real Estate

Gabe Swinney Asheville New Urbanism (Gabe Swinney) — Sat, 12 Jan 2008 13:56:19 -0600

Green commercial real estate in Asheville, North Carolina is starting to make a big impression on the market. Green real estate has quickly established itself as a growing powerhouse for Western North Carolina. Asheville has put itself on the map once again for approving one of the countries largest LEED certified projects the Weirbridge Project. Weirbridge Village is a 16 building, 21 acre, 100 million dollar project, designed to be LEED certified. This is also the second largest of its kind in the nation. Following suit, developers are looking for more opportunities to build or renovate sustainably in this Asheville market whose demographics are gobbling it up. You just cant beat it when values and value come together.

Another great example of green commercial property in the Asheville area is the Campbell Building located in Black Mountain. The Campbell Building was the second LEED certified commercial property in Buncumbe County and is helping set the standard for professional space in Western NC.

The current belief regarding the Asheville real estate market both commercial and residential is that it is among the healthiest in the country, but poised to experience very rapid growth when the nation wide market turns around. Developers and investors alike are taking advantage of this ripening fruit.

Green Real Estate Photo-shoot Follow Up

Gabe Swinney Asheville New Urbanism (Gabe Swinney) — Thu, 29 Nov 2007 09:22:45 -0600

Hi there! A couple of weeks back I posted about a photo-shoot that our firm went on in Dupont State Forest. This is the sort of thing we do from time to time. Heading out to the woods to get pictures capturing the natural beauty of the Asheville area is a great way to get marketing material. These short retreats also gives us a nice change of pace that can yield valuable perspective.

I was working the digital camera and my talented associate John Narrin was using one of his exotic, manual, and impressive cameras bearing a German name I couldn't pronounce if I tried. John modestly let me know that there were only a few shots he felt were, "in the ballpark". As promised here a couple of the pictures John Narrin took.

I feel so privileged to work with such talented people.

Driving Home - Asheville Green Real Estate Perspective

Gabe Swinney Asheville New Urbanism (Gabe Swinney) — Tue, 27 Nov 2007 12:21:44 -0600

"Climb the mountains and get their good tidings. Nature's peace will flow into you as sunshine flows into trees. The winds will blow their own freshness into you, and the storms their energy, while cares will drop off like autumn leaves.", These were the words of John Muir the great conservationist and explorer. Over the week-end, traveling back from my Thanksgiving Holiday i could feel myself gradually slipping back into the realty of these powerful and elevating words. I was coming back from a great time with even greater people outside of Detroit. The experience was certainly giving strong reminders of so much that I have to be thankful for. I was very happy. But, as I continued driving south down I-75 and the Appalachians began to swell around me like a crone beginning to stir in the morning underneath her thick homemade quilt, I began to realize more and more how much I had missed my home, even over such a short break.

For me landing in Western North Carolina was stepping into a life unexpected. There is humming energy here that is always spring time. And the longer I stay within it the more I know that much of my spirit is restful here. My town, Black Mountain, is my spouse, Asheville; my best friend, and these old hills have become my surrogate grandmother. Driving back home was like walking the seasons, from winter back down to spring.

This is part of why I prefer working as a "buyer's agent" in the Green Asheville Real Estate Market. I get to act as an interpretive guide for a place that I love, and share my enthusiasm with new friends who are filled with all of the excitement that comes with realizing a new dream.

It is wonderful to feel connected to a place, as John Muir clearly understood.

ECO Real Estate Photoshoot

Gabe Swinney Asheville New Urbanism (Gabe Swinney) — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 09:25:29 -0600

A big part of working in the ECO Real Estate business here in Asheville, NC is proper marketing. Our presence in our community must be one that conveys our values of stewardship, green development, and appreciation for this wonderful natural world we have around us. At our firm we often try to use photos to express these green values. Fortunately for us, John Narrin, a member of our team, is an accomplished photographer.

Going out with John on photo shoots feels more akin to fishing than marketing. First, we establish the location, settling on one of those natural wonders that make this place so nice to call home. This time we rambled down to Dupont State Forest, a giant waterfall dappled network of trails and rolling hills. John and I spent a good part of the day traversing the trails from cataract to cataract trying to find the best light while getting to as many of these legendary waterfalls as we could. You see Dupont is located just south of Asheville in Transylvania County, which is not as scary as it sounds; most of the vampires where wiped out a long time ago. Well anyway, Transylvania County is famous for its large endowment of gorgeous waterfalls. And the falls in Dupont State Forest are among the royal family of this village of undines.

It was a perfect location and a beautiful fall day. Those waterfalls were exemplary of the natural features that make the Asheville area so desirable. Woods, hills, and rivers that resonate with the heart and provide a comforting backdrop to the way of life that has so interestingly taken root here.

While the pictures that John took that day were all on a full manual camera and pending development; here are a few of the pictures we got on the digital that was brought along for back up. Having a chance to do things like this while working in Green Real Estate makes me so happy, being able to market happiness, stewardship, and nature in a place I love.

Traditional Neighborhood Developments and New Urbanism

Gabe Swinney Asheville New Urbanism (Gabe Swinney) — Tue, 16 Oct 2007 14:05:17 -0500

One of the major trends in real estate I focus on here in the Asheville and Black Mountain area of the Western North Carolina mountains is Traditional Neighborhood Developments . Many residential architects and planners are looking back for a clue as to how some of us may move forward. And why not? I once had a wizened old philosophy teacher who said that if you ever decided to be rich just look in history for a forgotten invention and reintroduce it. In many ways this is the case of Traditional Neighborhood Developments or simply TND's.

Arguably the largest problem facing urban planning in the western world is urban sprawl. New Urbanism, another name for TND's is one of the urban planners best tools in slowing it down. While there is a seemingly never ending amount of information on the subject I plan on using this post as a brief introduction and a resource for the resources on TND's. I will be following up with posts specifically focused on some of the Traditional Neighborhood Developments in Asheville as well as Black Mountain,North Carolina.

The Resources:

Traditional Neighborhood Design

The Ins and Outs of Infills

Breaking the Habit of Suburbia

Bill Blair's Blog