Abe and Wags Blog

Trail Maintenance and MB Riding June 19, 20

Robert Wagner (Prudential Preferred Realty 3802 St RT 31 Donegal, PA 15628) — Mon, 07 Jun 2010 14:04:24 -0700

In support of the Laurel Mountain Volunteer Group's (LMVG) first of three 2010 trail care days, PTAG (Pittsburgh Trails Advocacy Group) will be hosting a "Laurel Mountain Work and Roll Weekend", June 19-20th, 2010.

This is a great opportunity for everyone who enjoys the beautiful trails at Laurel Mountain to kick something back, break a sweat and make the trails even better and more enjoyable!

After a hard day's work, PTAG will be providing cold, tasty, FREE Penn Brewery Craft beer!

The DCNR will be providing FREE camping on Laurel Mountain Saturday night!

On Sunday we FREE-ride and enjoy the fruits of our labor!

Details:
* When: Saturday, June 19th - Sunday, June 20th

* Work: Saturday, 9:30am - 2:30pm. Meet at the Warming Hut parking lot on Summit Road near the entrance to the Laurel Mt. Ski Resort.

* Camp: The DCNR has generously granted us permission to camp over for free Saturday night. PTAG will be providing free beer after Saturday's work session at the camp area. BYO Everything. Bring telescopes too as this site offers a tremendous skyline view. Camping will be located at "Motorized Site #1. Directions: http://www.dcnr.state.pa.us/forestry/camping/forbes.aspx

* Ride: Sunday, 10am. Both brisk and casual-paced rides will be offered with multiple bail points. Everyone rides!

For additional information contact: Frank@dirtragmag.com, 724 433 4486

Seven Springs, PA Sheriff Sale 5-10

Robert Wagner (Prudential Preferred Realty 3802 St RT 31 Donegal, PA 15628) — Mon, 17 May 2010 14:17:25 -0700

What a shame! This once to be, multi-million dollar property will be up for Sheriff Sale Friday May 21, 2010. The sale will be held in the main lobby of the Somerset County Courthouse, 300 North Center Avenue, Somerset, PA 15501 at 1:30 PM.

This 5.95 acre parcel was purchased in 2004 for $255,000. It's lot #5 known as 154 Ptarmagin Way. The building process began quickly and according to the sellers disclosure the roof was installed in 2005. However, the house itself has never been completed and has weathered several winters without heat.

This two story dwelling has 5 bedrooms, 6 baths, 5 fireplaces, and a 3 car integral garage. The deed book number is 1788 page 14. We see someone with their own construction company being the successful bidder of this one!

According to the sheriff's department all interested parties should do a lien search PRIOR to bidding to see who is in the first lien position. If you are the successful bidder you will need to have 10% down (cash or certified funds) and the remaining balance paid before the following Friday.

This is a rare occurrence at Seven Springs! One reason for that is that since real estate development began at Seven Springs there has NEVER been a case of overbuilding! It's all about supply and demand.

Pheasant Run is a gated community with 31 parcels ranging from 3 to 12 acres. There are still 8 parcels offered for sale according to the Seven Springs web site.

Seven Springs New “Premier” Properties

Robert Wagner (Prudential Preferred Realty 3802 St RT 31 Donegal, PA 15628) — Thu, 22 Apr 2010 09:03:48 -0700

Seven Springs had a booth at the 2010 Home and Garden Show in Pittsburgh last month. They had a sign promoting a new community. Locally we haven't heard any new marketing concerning the newest offerings across the street from the Villages.

But when a home owner shared that there is to be a model open by this Thanksgiving we dug out the original materials. This community was first pitched back in 2008 and tagged "The next Premier Property at Seven Springs Mountain Resort." It's in Middlecreek Township, Somerset County.

According to the Feb 19, 2008 article by Kirk Swauger in the Somerset Tribune Democrat the "The townhomes and cottages were designed by renowned resort architect Jack Johnson Co. of Park City Utah. They will have 9-foot ceiling with vaulted family rooms, private patios, and decks."

Prices then were to range from the high $400,000s into the half million dollar arena. Two to four bedroom properties were in the plans, many with garages. With only a few Southwind properties undelivered the process of another community appears to be underway. The hand out we have has the following disclosure, "The material presented herein is conceptual only, for general information and does not constitute an offer to sell real estate. All details are subject to change at any time. Any decision to proceed with this or any other real estate project is subject to regulatory requirements, including but not limited to a Public Offering Statement and required municipal and State approvals."

PA Resort Slot License Update

Robert Wagner (Prudential Preferred Realty 3802 St RT 31 Donegal, PA 15628) — Sat, 10 Apr 2010 14:57:14 -0700

A month or so ago we blogged about Nemacolin Woodlands Resort resubmitting an application for the last of the Category 3 (Resort) Slot Licenses. We just had an update from the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board sharing that there are NOW a total of 5 resorts that have submitted applications.

Below are some links to the 5 resorts and how the local newspapers are reporting on what it would mean to snag that last license! Here's a map so you can see where they are hail from in Pennsylvania.

Mason-Dixon Resorts, LP
Eisenhower Hotel, Conference Center and Resort, 2634 Emmitsburg Road, Gettysburg, PA 17325
Cumberland Township, Adams County,

Woodlands Fayette, LLC
Nemacolin Woodlands Resort, Most recent Pittsburgh Tribune Review 1001 Lafayette Drive, Farmington, PA Wharton Township, Fayette County

Penn Harris Gaming, LP
Holiday Inn Harrisburg West, from the Pennsylvania Local News 5401 Carlisle Pike, Mechanicsburg, PA Hampden Township, Cumberland County

Bushkill Group, Inc.
Fernwood Hotel and Resort, East Stroudsburg, PA Middle Smithfield Township, Monroe County

Wyo Gaming, LP
Crown Plaza Reading, Wyomissing, PA Wyomissing Borough, Berks County

The vetting of the applicants and their paper work has no time constraints! We'll keep you updated!

Marcellus Shale Gas Leases

Robert Wagner (Prudential Preferred Realty 3802 St RT 31 Donegal, PA 15628) — Thu, 11 Mar 2010 12:22:32 -0800

Back in October of 2008 at our State Association of REALTOR (PAR) meetings we had a session on gas leases. The power point was provided by Greevy & Associates, 1460 Washington Blvd., Williamsport, Pa, 17701. ( 570-326-6561). Attorneys Lester Greevy and Dale Tice presented a great over view of what's happening in Pennsylvania and across the nation. They are located in Tioga County which has been a hot area for tapping into Marcellus Shale.

Our biggest lesson learned then was that sub-surface rights (under ground) always trump surface rights. Next biggest was that title searches are only required to go back 60 years and that most gas leases were recorded in the 1800's!! Buyers always take a property SUBJECT to the lease.

It's very safe to say that trying to negotiate a lease without representation is not going to optimize your real estate portfolio. Terms of lease were reviewed and include cash bonus, royalties - 1/8 is state minimum, length of usually 5 years (watch out for the option to extend), and modifying by an addenda. Pricing revolves around several factors including how much land and how many bidders. Throw in the tax ramifications too and it's time to contact these fellows or an attorney that specializes in gas leases!

The big caveat for agents, buyers and sellers, came out to understanding the consequences if there is a lease in place. Another issue that is currently being tested is the Clean and Green programs and whether a gas well leased by a separate party should jeopardize the owner of the property by being subject to removal from the program. This is currently left up to the county! Our State PAR NOW has a Google Group for Oil and Gas issues that our members are running into!

Within the past few months we're hearing more discussions concerning the leasing of gas rights in our state FORESTS. On Tuesday the local Somerset Daily American paper had a story by Bruce Siwy concerning Ohiopyle, Laurel Ridge, Kooser, and Laurel Hill State PARKS. It appears all of the mineral rights are NOT owned by the state.

In January the Republican Herald ran this story by Robert Swift concerning state FOREST land. According to the article "Pennsylvania will realize $128 million in revenue from leasing drilling rights on 32,000 acres of forest in north-central Pennsylvania based on high bids submitted earlier this week by five companies."

Here's an editorial page from PennLive.com by the Patriot-News Editorial Board in February recommending a severance tax to be enacted on Marcellus Shale. We have been watching the oil and gas pages on the Department of Environment (DEP) web site. There's a ton of information including updated maps of areas that have signed leases.

We bring this to your attention so you too can be a concerned citizen and begin to follow what is happening in our back yards!!

Pittsburg market impacts second homes

Robert Wagner (Prudential Preferred Realty 3802 St RT 31 Donegal, PA 15628) — Wed, 03 Mar 2010 17:03:24 -0800

Are PA housing markets over-valued or under-valued?

Wednesday, March 3, 2010By Austin Jaffe, Ph.D.

In 2006, a research study by National City Corp. and IHS Global Insight ranked U.S. housing markets on whether or not median home prices in 299 markets were "priced correctly."

They found that 213 of the 299 cities selected for the study were over-valued. Number one on the over-valued list was Naples, FL, with a whopping 84 percent of its housing stock selling for more than what was thought to be the "correct" price or fair value. The 2010 follow-up study found that housing in Naples now sells at a 29-percent discount to fair value. Median prices fell from more than $390,000 to about $165,500.

By 2010, only 87 of 330 cities studied were over-valued. The most under-valued market in the 2010 study was Las Vegas at 41 percent below fair value, followed by Vero Beach, FL, down almost 40 percent; Merced, CA, down nearly 38 percent; and Cape Coral, FL, down almost 37 percent.

How do Pennsylvania cities compare? Here are the numbers:

All Pennsylvania cities show evidence of relative price declines from their fair value estimates from 2006 to 2010, except Harrisburg, which extended its over-valuation, and Scranton, which is about the same.

The primary implication of these numbers is that the median prices in the overvalued cities may decline further while the undervalued set (except Pittsburgh) overshot their fair values during the recent years' declines. The Steel City was slightly undervalued in 2006 and is even more so now.

It is important to note that it is quite possible for over- or under-valuations to persist for some time. Economics and other forces exert pressure on prices to "revert to the mean" but this process may take several months - or even years.

The conclusion of the report observed that for a few years, the average buyer "should forget about home purchases as investments." But homebuyers, especially in under-valued markets, can expect long-term appreciation as prices approach fair values.

You and 4 people like this post. Unlike

About Austin:
Austin Jaffe, Ph.D. is PAR's Consulting Economist from the Smeal College of Business at Penn State University.

Hidden Valley Spring Carnival

Robert Wagner (Prudential Preferred Realty 3802 St RT 31 Donegal, PA 15628) — Wed, 03 Mar 2010 13:31:26 -0800

Hidden Valley Resort will present the annual Spring Carnival March 6 - 7, 2010. More than 220 inches of snow this winter have provided awesome snow conditions this March, and the time has come to celebrate the fact that spring is just around the corner! Guests will enjoy a full schedule of games, activities, and entertainment at the third annual Spring Carnival.

Spring Carnival kicks off on Saturday morning with the opening of the Hidden Valley boardwalk. The Ski Lodge plaza level will be converted into a boardwalk scene. Vendors will be selling barbecued goodies, funnel cakes, chocolate delicacies and other treats. The entire family will enjoy contests and carnival games, free caricatures, face painting, and a strolling magician.

There will be a wide variety of events for everyone to participate in during the carnival. The events are all about having fun with the entire family. With seasonal temperatures in the 40s or warmer and hopefully plenty of sunshine, Spring Carnival will be the perfect time to get out and enjoy the incredible snow conditions.

A few events like the Family Obstacle Course and The Captains Awesome Pirate Adventure Race will require people to have skis or a snowboard and navigate various challenges as they descend the beginner area. Other amusing activities include a tug-o-war, snow volleyball, a hula hoop contest, snow rafting and a snow golf - closest to the pin contest. For the more competitive types, the resort offers a Giant Slalom race. The third and final event of the HV Park Series will take place on Sunday, March 7. This event will be a boarder/skier cross competition. There will be a registration fee for the HV Park Series event and the Giant Slalom race. Events that take place on the slopes do require a valid ski ticket.

The kids will also find plenty of fun beyond the boardwalk scene. Youngsters will have an opportunity to play on the Snowcano near the ski lodge or compete in the Kids Crazy Hat and Helmet Race. Hidden Valley is working with the Family Life Fund of Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh's Foundation to present the Family Fun Zone and Sweet & Treat Bar. This area will feature children's crafts, cookie decorating, smoothies and candy. There will be a nominal fee to the Family Fun Zone activities with proceeds benefiting the Family Life Fund.

Make plans to spend the entire weekend at Hidden Valley with our attractively priced lodging packages which start at just $118 per person and includes lodging and ski tickets. Call 814.443.8000 to make reservations.

For more information on the Spring Carnival and everything Hidden Valley has to offer visit our web site at www.hiddenvalleyresort.com.

Houselogic.com

Robert Wagner (Prudential Preferred Realty 3802 St RT 31 Donegal, PA 15628) — Wed, 17 Feb 2010 15:10:45 -0800

Our National Association of REALTORS (NAR) has rolled out our newest consumer tool! Houselogic is in response to frustrations of consumers that fall into bogus sites while surfing the Internet for housing information. Sites that promise to help them through their years as home owners and in reality only want to sell them something or capture their information for resale purposes.

This site begins with 5 tabs at the top of the page, Improve, Maintain, Engage, Taxes & Incentives, Finances & Insurance, and News and Activity. Under each tab you'll find subcategories that take you into greater detail about the topic you're investigating. Read it and leave or build a binder with projects that you'll see through from start to finish!

For over 100 years the REALTOR Association has championed home owner rights. When you become a FREE member of Houselogic, NAR may ask you to partner on issues or legislation that may impact you as a homeowner. It's up to you whether to participate in these causes. Remember the people in DC work for us. Hearing from us allows them to best represent their constituents!

Take some time to try out Houselogic and share your thoughts with our other readers. Remember if you are house hunting to search REALTOR.com by zip code (Hidden Valley 15502, 7Springs 15622) for the most up to date accurate information on properties for sale!

Pennsylvania Tourism Facts

Robert Wagner (Prudential Preferred Realty 3802 St RT 31 Donegal, PA 15628) — Thu, 11 Feb 2010 14:20:34 -0800

The 49 Tourism Promotion Agencies representing all 67 counties of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania have an incredible informational piece that outlines how vital tourism is to Pennsylvania's bottom line. I'm reciting some facts just in case you don't have time to open the link!

"Did you know that Tourism ranks as the second largest industry in Pennsylvania! How about, that our state is the 4th most visited state in the country! In 2007, visitors generated a total of $2.8 billion in state and municipal tax revenues (a little more than 10% of the total General Fund Expenditures in 2007-08).

Due to the major tax revenues generated by tourism industry in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, each one of our 4.9 million households benefits with $575 in tax savings. Put another way, if not for tourism industry, each household would have to pay $575 in additional taxes to maintain the current level of state services."

In deed, we as REALTORS focusing our business on Hidden Valley, Seven Springs, and the immediate area in the Laurel Highlands are extremely biased in our support for the tourism industry. "We urge Gov. Rendell and our legislators to maintain FY 2009-10 Tourism Promotion Assistance funding at $8 million - funding that has already been contracted and awarded.

Without this support of a key state industry, the second round of cuts included in the Governor's FY 2009-10 budget revisions would leave PA's total tourism promotion expenditures at 65% below FY 2008-09."

Here is the link that shares how YOUR VOICE can make a difference! Through a call, letter, or e-mail YOU can help to keep tourism a viable factor in our economy!

PLEASE TAKE ACTION TODAY!

Donegal Township 2009 Real Estate Commercial and Farm Sales

Robert Wagner (Prudential Preferred Realty 3802 St RT 31 Donegal, PA 15628) — Mon, 08 Feb 2010 12:33:56 -0800

Given the state of the economy we were stunned to see multiple transfers of commercial and farm properties in 2009. These sales were not transferred through the West Penn MLS. What that means is if you wanted to use them as comparables you would either have to search the Westmorland Deed site or visit the court house in Greensburg.

We keep sharing with you that there are strong currents working to make Donegal a memorable Gateway to the Laurel Highlands. Building and expanding our local businesses certainly will help! You spending time and money here keeps the excitement growing!

Family Dollar - It's the first franchise store along the Route 31 corridor after the fast food and gas stations that you pass by when you exit off of the turnpike at Donegal. This store just celebrated its first anniversary, it's that new! We picked up the transfer dated September 2009 for $880,000.

The 6 Pack Shop NOW Taylor Jo's 6 Pack Shack- This parcel is located on the right when you turn on to 711 from Route 31 as you're headed to 7 Springs. The building had several rentals inside along with the small restaurant (great fried chicken) that sits on just less than an acre. Dine in or take out, they're running daily specials 724-593-2401. The property transferred December 2009 for $250,000.

Leepers Grocery- This was once a grocery store and is located on Route 31 headed towards Mount Pleasant about 2 miles off of the Donegal turnpike exit. Lots of remodeling going on here! New owners have made rental space available. With just over an acre of ground this property transferred in June of 2009 for $190,000

Laurel Highlands Personal Care Home -This parcel is on the right as you cross the bridge off of Route 31 onto Route 711 headed to Ligonier. With approximately six acres and a large building this property transferred in December 2009 for $875,000.

There were two farms sold in Donegal Township during 2009. Both showed more than 100 acres! Both of these transferred in April 2009. One for $660,000 and the other was for $550,000.

If you'd like to be a part of our growing community here's a great opportunity! This parcel is DIRECTLY ACROSS from the Family Dollar store. With over 2 acres the site has frontage on both Route 31 and School House Lane. Seller is willing to sell or rent. Upgrades include new roof and paint in 2007, lot seal coated and lined in 2009. Call Wags for more details at 800-419-7653.

Amtrak Stopping In Rockwood, PA?

Robert Wagner (Prudential Preferred Realty 3802 St RT 31 Donegal, PA 15628) — Fri, 29 Jan 2010 14:25:19 -0800

You say Rockwood, Pennsylvania? WHY and who cares? Rockwood is just one of the TRAIL Towns located along the Great Allegheny Passage. The passage is an awesome 320 mile Bike Trail from Pittsburgh to Washington, DC. Wags and some friends did the whole trail in 5 days, my girlfriend and I have been doing segments!

According to the article in the Somerset Daily American Amtrak is reconsidering train service to Rockwood. Apparently a study done by Amtrak last year indicates that a stop in Rockwood would result in a net increase of $56,000 with projections of 2,100 more passengers.

Rockwood residents have embraced riders of the bike trail and have worked really hard at making their community a memorable stop. We have been sharing the push for our area to become even better known as a great day or overnight get away. This is just one of many ideas that may come to fruition! Here's a study that was released last February regarding the IMPACT the trail system has on our economy.

February 26 is the next meeting date. State Representative Carl Walker Metzgar shared that for this to happen there will be a need for fund raising! Stay tuned for more details!

Where Do Our Resort Owners Come From?

Robert Wagner (Prudential Preferred Realty 3802 St RT 31 Donegal, PA 15628) — Fri, 22 Jan 2010 10:03:52 -0800

For many years sellers have been under the impression that the majority of BUYERS come out of the DC area. We believe this idea came from the days when both Kettler Brothers and Kettler Forlines Homes were exclusive builders at the resorts. Kettler Brothers were builder/owners at Hidden Valley and Kettler Forlines Homes were building exclusively at Seven Springs for over 25 years. Yes, there is a blood connection but the companies are two separate entities.

Kettler Brothers is known in the DC area for the Montgomery Village community. It was the FIRST planned community. When they became owners of Hidden Valley they marketed extensively to their home owners in MD. Home owners at Hidden Valley invited friends and family up and you would see license plates galore from out of state.

Kettler Forlines Homes was the exclusive builder developer at Seven Springs from the early 80s until 2007. Abe spent 18 years with them beginning with the Swiss Mountain Community through the Villages. Bus trips from DC made runs every weekend to the resort exposing many to Seven Springs for the first time.

However, Maryland and or DC are NOT our primary buyer source! A year or so ago we ran the zip codes of the home owners from BOTH resorts and found the following. 81% of the home owners at Hidden Valley had Pennsylvania zips showing as their primary residence. Seven Springs came in at 79%. While we were running the stats for 2009 we took a close look at the newest buyers to become home owners. We wanted to know if there was a shift given the challenging economy.

You'll see that the purple bar, which is the combined total of both 2009 resort home owners shows that the Pennsylvania trend continues. Note that our information comes from recorded real estate transfers which are public records. Unfortunately some show the home owners address as the resort address or the title company and then we do our best on Google!

It doesn't matter where you are coming from! The point is more and more people are discovering the incredible natural resources, amenities, and facilities available in the Laurel Highlands!

2009 Real Estate Markete Review for Seven Springs, PA

Robert Wagner (Prudential Preferred Realty 3802 St RT 31 Donegal, PA 15628) — Thu, 21 Jan 2010 14:56:58 -0800

The good news is that the number of resale transfers is up! As you can see in the chart below in 2008 there were only 28 sales recorded, in ‘09 that number climbed to 39.

Year	2004	2005	2006	2007	2008	2009
# of Resales	94	67	80	41	28	39

We know that EVERYONE ALWAYS wants to buy BEFORE the market begins to recover! The increase in number of transfers is one indicator of a shift in the market!

We are here to tell you that in the last six weeks of 2009 we personally negotiated 7 agreements! This is the first sign of a pulse for our markets. NEVER HAVE BUYERS HAD THE PRICES, INVENTORY, AND INTEREST RATES THAT ARE NOW AVAILABLE!

Average sales prices have come down from $391,648 in 2008 to $326,534 in 2009. Swiss Mountain carried 41% of the 39 resales with Southwind following with 15%.

Speaking of the Southwind community there were 19 new construction town homes that transferred at an average sales price of $786,738. The average in 2008 was $679,852. Resales totaled 6 with an average sales price of $660,000, the 2008 average was $674,800.

Not all sellers have embraced the fact that the numbers are lower and that is why, once again, we strongly encourage you to work with a designated BUYERS AGENT. And if selling, consider us as your listing agent for cutting edge market information!!

Always ask your DESIGNATED REALTOR about the other stats you should be considering PRIOR to making an offer! Remember there are great properties available for sale or rent in ALL price ranges in the Laurel Highlands!

2009 Real Estate Market Review for Hidden Valley, PA

Robert Wagner (Prudential Preferred Realty 3802 St RT 31 Donegal, PA 15628) — Thu, 21 Jan 2010 14:53:13 -0800

We had hoped that the increased sales that we saw after the Buncher group purchased the resort in 2007 would begin a new trend. Unfortunately the economy, increased inventory, and declining prices at Seven Springs have derailed our expectations.

In 2008 there were 80 recorded resale transfers. In 2009 there were only 48. Reviewing the chart below you can see what a tough year this was and how much further up it can go!!

Year	2004	2005	2006	2007	2008	2009
# of Resales	156	155	84	79	80	48

The average sales price here has also declined. In 2008 it went from $225,266 to $210,700 in 2009. When you look around the US at other resort areas and the hits they have taken on prices both of our Pennsylvania Resorts are holding their own!

Only one of the new South Ridge Place condos has transferred. Active listings total 98 with several properties headed into their second year on the market. Our advice is the same on this side of the mountain; make sure you are working with a designated agent!

The Pittsburgh market has come around and that should mean the resort markets will be following. With the stats we watch we believe that this year may very well be the upturn SELLERS have been awaiting. In other words if you are a buyer, NOW is the time to get into your mountain home!

Buyers have great selection with 98 active listings at Hidden Valley and 87 at Seven Springs. Many floor plans offer at least two properties to select from with interior merchandising and location being key factors in the buyers' decision making process.

If 2010 is our turn around then buyers will begin to see falling inventory which means fewer choices! Know that once inflation kicks in the interest rates will start to climb! We share much more in depth statistical information with our clients. We know it gives them a strong competitive edge as 53% of our 30 listed residential properties from 2009 were either SOLD OR PLACED INTO AN AGREEMENT THAT'S WAITING TO SETTLE!!!

We know for a fact that that more and more people are finding what we already know that the Laurel Highlands offers incredible YEAR ROUND ACTIVITIES!!

Great snow for upcoming XC events

Robert Wagner (Prudential Preferred Realty 3802 St RT 31 Donegal, PA 15628) — Tue, 19 Jan 2010 15:19:37 -0800

By Larry Walsh, Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

Rick Garstka of Munhall waxed enthusiastic while describing the quality and quantity of snow that has fallen in the Laurel Highlands since Dec. 28:

"Bonanza." "Heaven sent." "Phenomenal."

"We've been waiting a long time for this," said Garstka, the president of the Pennsylvania Cross Country Skiers' Association. "The season has gotten off to a super start, the best in years."

And downhill and cross-country skiers, snowboarders, snowtubers, snowshoers, sled-, saucer- and tray-sliders and tobogganists are reveling in it.

"We haven't seen snowfall like this since the 2002-03 season when we received a total of 208 inches," said Dick Barron, director of ski and snowboard operations at snow-blessed Seven Springs.

As of 4 p.m. yesterday, the resort had received 57 inches of natural snow since Dec. 28 and more was on the way.

"We'll have more than 60 inches, perhaps much more, before this system moves on [this] evening," Barron said.

Seven Springs received the most new snow of any resort in the country - 27 inches - during a 48-hour period this week, according to OnTheSnow.com.

The Web site posts snowfall information it receives from resorts. Top honors for the most new snow in 24, 48 or 72 hours usually goes to the big western resorts.

"We received a total of 78 inches for the season so far," Barron said. "It's wonderful."

Garstka agrees.

"We've had smiles on our faces since December," he said. "We hope to have plenty of snow for our scheduled events in January and February."

Garstka was referring to the association's free cross-country lessons for adults and children at Laurel Ridge State Park next weekend and Jan. 23-24, Feb. 6 and Feb. 20. It also has a Nordic Picnic Jan. 23 and the annual Pennsylvania Nordic Championship Races Feb. 7.

The lessons, also offered to those with intermediate skills, will begin at 1 p.m. in front of the rental concession. Although you don't need to be a member of PACCSA to participate, a trail pass is necessary and can be purchased for $6.

Garstka said beginners will learn double-poling, uphill and downhill techniques and the diagonal stride. The instructors then will take them out on an easy trail to practice what they've just learned and will provide individual critiques along the way.

A complete set of equipment - skis, boots and poles - can be rented from the concessionaire at the park (724-455-7303). Rental equipment also is available at Thrifty Ski Rental in Donegal (724-593-6404), Route 31 Board and Ski in Somerset (1-814-443-1282) and Peak Ski and Board near Boyce Park in Plum (412-793-6600).

Be advised: It's first-come, first-served. Get there early, especially when snow conditions are as great as they are now.

The association has a cross-country ski team - the Yellow Jackets - for children ages 5 to 12. Kids of all abilities, including beginners, are welcome. Garstka said the youngsters learn to ski by using skill sessions and games based on Cross Country Canada's Bunnyrabbit and Jackrabbit developmental programs.

The team skis Saturdays in January and February at Laurel Ridge State Park and will make occasional trips to Kooser State Park and other locations close to Pittsburgh.

Although registration for this season has closed, parents can learn more about the team by taking their children to the free lesson sessions and/or the Nordic Picnic.

"Cross-country skiing is a great way to stay fit during the winter," Garstka said. It can be as energetic as you want it to be - from walking pace to race speed."

A PACCSA membership costs $6 per individual or $9 per family. For more information, go to paccsa.org.

Larry Walsh writes about recreational snowsports for the Post-Gazette.

Read more: click here

Fire and Ice Festival Begins TODAY Jan 15, 2010!

Robert Wagner (Prudential Preferred Realty 3802 St RT 31 Donegal, PA 15628) — Fri, 15 Jan 2010 10:46:41 -0800

Celebrating its 15^th year the Fire and Ice Festival in Somerset, PA will offer up its 48 creative ice sculptures throughout up town Somerset and the Georgian Place. Mastro Gourmet Quality Ice from Pittsburgh will once again be delighting the crowds with their one of a kind pieces! This is a three day weekend with the Martin Luther King, Jr Holiday on Monday. Both Seven Springs and Hidden Valley are expecting awesome crowds!

Fireworks are set to begin tonight at 6 p.m. You may have caught, Little Big Shots, the local company responsible for tonight's display on Dirty Jobs seen on the Discovery Channel. They are sure to delight everyone! New this year is the karaoke contest.

We always enjoy Crazy Alice's Catering before checking out the carvings! They serve breakfast and lunch which you can enjoy dinning in or taking out (101 West Main St, Glades Court Mall, Somerset).

Fire and Ice headquarters may be found at 113 East Main Street, (Across from the PNC Bank for those of you who don't have the GPS gadgets!) Somerset, PA 15501. Warm up there from 10-8 Friday and Saturday and 12- 4 on Sunday. Here's a schedule for all of the fun filled events!

Wood Carvings by local and regional carvers are back again this year Saturday has a "Hot Stuff Chili and Soup Cook-OFF" contest in the American Legion basement, 162 West Main. Note that this event and several others require admission by the Fire and Ice Pin. They can be purchased at Headquarters and other local retailers. Here's the story from our local Somerset Daily American! Enjoy!

Hidden Valley, PA December Real Estate Transfers

Robert Wagner (Prudential Preferred Realty 3802 St RT 31 Donegal, PA 15628) — Sun, 10 Jan 2010 16:15:44 -0800

2742 Powder Ridge		$273,500
471 Gardner Road		$230,000
1467 Gebhart Way		$154,000
533 Kooser Circle		$180,000
2407 South Ridge		$322,000
5034 Summit		$279,000
1736 Snowfield Drive		$320,000
2421 South Ridge Plaza		$310,000
1922 South Ridge		$250,000

Stayed tuned for the 2009 year end updates on market stats!!

Seven Springs, PA December Real Estate Transfers

Robert Wagner (Prudential Preferred Realty 3802 St RT 31 Donegal, PA 15628) — Sun, 10 Jan 2010 16:12:40 -0800

T4 SunRidge		$420,000
313 DeerRidge		$700,000
3001 Swiss Mtn		$118,000
153 Southwind		$1,250,000
49 Southwind		$765,000

Stay tuned for the 2009 update on year end market stats!

Gaming at Nemacolin Woodlands?

Robert Wagner (Prudential Preferred Realty 3802 St RT 31 Donegal, PA 15628) — Fri, 08 Jan 2010 16:29:09 -0800

Since Governor Rendell has blessed table games in Pennsylvania (just yesterday) Nemacolin Resort has decided they now want that last available resort license! If you remember back in 2006 they had submitted an application for a license. But before the vote they withdrew it!

At the time they cited the $25 per person charge requirement for their change of mind. That fee has been reduced to $10! Another change in the license is that the number of allowable slots has gone from 500 to 600. Add with table games being added to the mix the opportunity becomes much more interesting!

They announced that they have a casino management and marketing agreement with Isle of Capri Casinos. This is a relatively large corporation in the industry. They own and or operate 14 casino properties in six states and the Bahamas. There are several other resorts vying for this license! Our bet is on Nemacolin!

Check out the article in the Trib Total Media!

Telepalooza at 7 Springs January 30/31

Robert Wagner (Prudential Preferred Realty 3802 St RT 31 Donegal, PA 15628) — Mon, 04 Jan 2010 16:14:16 -0800

Telepalooza Telemark Ski Event is the Largest in the Mid-Atlantic for the Eighth Year Running.

January 30 and 31^st 2010

Seven Springs, PA

Telepalooza, a weekend gathering of telemark or "free heel" skiers is being held at Seven Springs Mountain Resort in Seven Springs, PA.

The event features two days of races, lessons, prizes, food, beverage and fun.

This is the eighth year the Appalachian Telemark Association (ATA) has sponsored Telepalooza and it is anticipated to be bigger and better than ever.

This multi-day, multi-event, multi-fun festival celebrates "free heel" or telemark skiing, a style that originated in Norway.

Telemark skiing is the predecessor of today's downhill skiing and is experiencing a resurgence of interest. The skis are similar to downhill, yet the bindings and boots allow the boot heel to come off the ski.

There will be lessons for children and adults, from beginner through expert from certified instructors. Children sixteen and under are free and discounted lift tickets are available. Demo equipment is available from Karhu, K2 and Garmont. Prizes awarded from great producers such as Cloudveil, Kahru, Leki and more.

The price for two days is $99 and $79 for a single day (Saturday or Sunday). Early payment discount of $10. Tickets available on the web site www.telemarker.org Pay Pal is accepted. Discount lift tickets to Seven Springs Resort are available.

###

To learn more about Appalachian Telemark Association and see the Telepalooza 2010 PDF flier go to www.telemarker.org

Jim Kapp is the founder of Telepalooza and available for additional information at 724-989-8913, or he can be contacted at kapperzootie@aol.com

Announcing Market SnapShot, Buyer and Seller Research Tool

Robert Wagner (Prudential Preferred Realty 3802 St RT 31 Donegal, PA 15628) — Sun, 03 Jan 2010 13:38:47 -0800

It is one more tool that we NOW offer our readers to help stay on top of current market conditions. Although we intended its use to be for the resort and Laurel Highlands market area it will work for any properties in the WestPenn Multiple Listing Service!

This report is a snapshot of the past three months of sales, active listings, community and school information. There is a mapping feature but we caution you that our 911 system and property addresses ESPECIALLY at the resorts seldom match up. If you share your contact info you'll receive a monthly update!

Buyers will want to keep focused on the sales to compare to the asking prices of properties they may be of interest to them. As communities and floor plans differ you may need help sorting out all of this information. Catch up with us so if we can't help you we can refer you to a DESIGNATED AGENT!

Sellers or prospective sellers will want to watch how much competition there is of their design or in a similar price range. Figuring out HOW to give you the information YOU want may prove to be challenging! Not to worry! That's why we're here!!

For EVERYONE, the trick in getting relevant information pertinent to your needs is in the set up! Try going into the advanced screen to tailor the market areas YOU are interested in for buying or selling! Better yet catch up with Abe and she'll help walk you through the system!

To try it out and see just what's on the market and what has sold go to: www.LaurelHighlandsHomeValues.com

Buyers New Years Resolutions

Robert Wagner (Prudential Preferred Realty 3802 St RT 31 Donegal, PA 15628) — Wed, 30 Dec 2009 19:47:57 -0800

As a prospective buyer for property at ANY resort (or area) here are a few New Year's Resolutions. These few easy resolutions will help to ensure a sturdy real estate portfolio for MANY MORE YEARS TO COME!!

I resolve that I will research REALTOR.COM for competitive properties as they are easily found by the zip code in the area I'm looking for property. I refuse to waste my time on other web sites that have outdated or incorrect information.

I resolve myself that I will ONLY work with a DESIGNATED AGENT. A REALTOR that is looking out for my best interest and NO ONE ELSES (including their own).

I resolve to INTERVIEW the DESIGNATED AGENT BEFORE I agree to be their client. I'll want to know how long they have worked the market I'm interested in, what type of stats they can share on the properties I'm interested in, if they have continued their education through certifications or designations, AND if they will stay in touch with me through the communication model I choose.

Most of all I promise TO TAKE ADVANTAGE OF the greatest selection of inventory, the incredible LOW interest rates, AND THE COMPETITIVE PRICES BEFORE the market begins to rebound! By doing this,

I resolve to never have to say, "I wish I would have bought back when....."

Sellers New Years Resolutions

Robert Wagner (Prudential Preferred Realty 3802 St RT 31 Donegal, PA 15628) — Mon, 28 Dec 2009 14:06:25 -0800

You have decided to sell your property in a very challenging market. There are multiple properties like yours on the market making pricing your property critical. However there are signs that Buyers confidence is coming back. To maximize your bottom line here are our recommendations for your New Years Resolutions.

I resolve to interview at least TWO DESIGNATED agents, one to be Abe and Wags. I want to ensure that my concerns are a top priority.

I resolve to ask how many properties the agent was involved with last year. And what their list to sell average was, I'll be shooting for over 90%.

I resolve to see a written marketing plan for all types of media that will expose my property to the greatest number of prospective buyers. I will research REALTOR.COM and see what my competition looks like.

I resolve to listen to the agent's review of the market statistics and their suggestion on my pricing and merchandising strategies.

I resolve to work with an agent that will communicate with me the way I am most comfortable be that snail mail, e-mail, texting, and or social networking.

By adhering to these resolutions,

I resolve to be SOLD by December 31, 2010!! Here's to a PROSPEROUS NEW YEAR!

Laurel Highlands Mining Permit

Robert Wagner (Prudential Preferred Realty 3802 St RT 31 Donegal, PA 15628) — Mon, 21 Dec 2009 15:03:16 -0800

Last week I attended a public meeting regarding a deep mine application for New Enterprise Stone and Lime. This stone quarry is across the street from Hidden Valley. It wasn't a very large turnout and only three people shared their concerns. We were surprised not to see any representatives from Hidden Valley Resort or the Home Owners Association.

When you're on top of the mountain you can see only a portion of New Enterprise surface mining operations. They propose to deep mine 240 acres for LIMESTONE, NOT COAL. Approximately five and a half additional acres would be surfaced mined to open up an entrance. Here is a link to an aerial map.

Concern arises from the amount of impact the operations may have on the Shaffer Run watershed. Shaffer and Kooser Run are tributaries that may be impacted by the mining. They both feed into Laurel Hill Creek. If you recall, this creek made its way to one of America's top 10 endangered rivers. More recently it made the headlines when a bottling company wanted to with draw 108,000 gallons of water a day. That permit was denied.

The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Recourses (DEP) is an incredible web site for homeowners. You can search by your zip code or check out their digitized maps to see if there is mining underneath your property! So far 11 of 43 Pennsylvania county maps are posted. Somerset County is still being processed. They even have a Help Desk, the number is 1-800-922-1678.

The DEP has an e-letter that you can sign up for if you would like to keep up with their news! Here's the Link!

Visual Tours

Robert Wagner (Prudential Preferred Realty 3802 St RT 31 Donegal, PA 15628) — Thu, 17 Dec 2009 16:12:01 -0800

One of the marketing products we offer our sellers is called Visual Tours. It is a software program that uses pictures of the property and stitches them together. When you view the end product it looks like you are standing in the room looking around!

This company continues to upgrade their services and recently came up with multiple offerings for exposing properties on social media sites. We now have a link in our e-mail signatures that will open a gallery of all of our active listings.

If you have social media sites you as the seller and we as your agent can now insert the Visual Tour for friends to see! This is another way of exposing our listings to the masses! Last I checked they offered formats for 12 different social media sites!

Another new feature is a format for posting the Visual Tour on Craig's List. The views on our properties have skyrocketed since we began using this one! We currently post our listings in Pittsburgh, DC, and Toronto.

We're working on a project to document and share pictures of the communities at Hidden Valley and Seven Springs. This eventually will include exterior tours so buyers will be able to see locations and interior tours of the different floor plans within each community. Not a project that's going to get done overnight! We even have a wide angle lens ordered to give you the largest visuals possible. Stay Tuned!