Although Highlands is usually thought of as a summer resort, the winter has its own special charm.  Gone are the crowds of summer, replaced by quiet, laid-back days and  nights full of brilliant stars.  Most years there are several snows and nothing is more beautiful than those flakes blanketing the earth, returning the landscape to a state of purity and innocence. The winter silence after a snow is amazing.  It’s wonderful to just walk out my road and the only sound I hear is of my boots crunching in the snow.

If we have a long cold snap, sometimes there is ice skating on local lakes. Winter hiking can be fun, too, but you must dress warmly in layers for it.  And things do go on.  The Bascom is open year-round for workshops and classes.  The Highlands-Cashiers Players do several plays during the off-season.  “Cat on a Hot Tin Roof” starts February 23^rd and runs through March 4th.  The Ugly Dog Pub features bluegrass on Wednesday nights and a Story Swap on the 2^nd Tuesday of each month by local writers and storytellers.  Many restaurants are open with more limited hours.

Come try it out sometime, but don’t tell everyone, okay?  We don’t want it to be just like the summer.  The cold may scare a lot of people off, but this winter has been especially mild.  We’re not complaining about that, either.

This blog was contributed by Betty Holt.   For more information about Highlands and Cashiers North Carolina, contact Meadows Mountain Realty broker, Betty Holt at 828-526-4101.   For access to the HighlandsNC/CashiersNC MLS, contact Meadows Mountain Realty today,  or email us today at betty@meadowsmtnrealty.com or info@meadowsmtnrealty.com.    

On December 30th, 2011 Signature Properties integrated into a Meadows Mountain Realty branch office and is operating under the Meadows banner.   

The owner of Meadows Mountain Realty, Judy Michaud, and the previous owner of Signature Properties, Lynn Kimball, have a long & successful history together.  They both moved to Highlands in the mid 1980’s and worked under Johnny White, Director of Sales, known at the time as ”Highlands Falls Realty”.  This team sold out Highlands Falls Country Club and in 1996 Lynn purchased the real estate firm from the developer of Highlands Falls.    She expanded the company into the general real estate business under the name of Signature Properties.   After 22 years as a Broker at Signature Properties, Judy had the opportunity to purchase another local real estate brokerage firm Meadows Mountain Realty.    She said “Although I loved working with Lynn and Johnny at Signature Properties, I saw this as an opportunity to build a legacy for my family.   I am blessed to have a great group of brokers and staff plus I get to work with my two daughters, Michelle Michaud Muraco and Patricia Michaud Cox, both of whom play a significant role in the success of our company.”     Lynn fully supported Judy in her endeavor and they have always remained close friends.

Their simple explanation for this move is that “although we were unique apart and we are powerful together.”   Kimball and Michaud both said, “It is truly a blessing for us to be working together again.” 

Judy plans to combine the best of what both firms have to offer into one dynamic real estate firm.   They both noted, “This is a new day in the real estate industry and technology is essential in marketing property”.  If you check it out on the internet, Meadows’ presence speaks for itself.   In 2011, Meadows Mountain Realty far exceeded the number of sales of any other real estate firm in Highlands.

Meadows Mountain Realty will now have two locations.   The original Signature Properties location across from Highlands Falls Country Club has become a Meadows office.   Lynn will remain as Broker-in-Charge and under Meadows Mountain Realty will have more time to do what she does best, list and sell real estate and assist the  team of brokers at the Highlands Falls location in doing the same.  Meadows will maintain their current office in Downtown Highlands.  However, in April they will move their Downtown location to Church Street, in the Old Edwards Inn complex.

For more information about Highlands and Cashiers North Carolina, and for access to the HighlandsNC/CashiersNC MLS, contact Meadows Mountain Realty today, 828-526-4101 or email us today at info@meadowsmtnrealty.com.    

We attended a charrette this evening after work at the Highlands Community Building on Poplar Street.    This was a public meeting of the Small Town Main Street Branding and Wayfinding Project for Highlands.   The public was encouraged to come and share their thoughts and feelings on what identity they feel best represents Highlands in order for this project to truly be a town effort.   An online survey on the Town of Highlands Website at www.highlandsnc.org was available for participants and those unable to attend to have their input.   

In 2009, Highlands won a position on the North Carolina Small Town Main Street Program to help us improve the look of our downtown and to promote its identity.   Last year the program was making progress when the State cut the budget.   Despite that financial set back, the Town Board felt that this was such an important program voted to continue and fund the project.  

About 40 Highlanders attended, some who were born and raised in Highlands, others like us, who chose Highlands for their home.  The  first questions for consideration was “If you had to tell someone who had never been here, about Highlands in 15 minutes, what would you say?”    The interactive discussion seemed to focus on two main aspects of life in Highlands – the natural wonders of the area, including waterfalls and mountains, and the cultural venues which abound in our community.   Many spoke to the warm and welcoming spirit of the people in Highlands.

A second topic of discussion centered around signage in the community.  Opinions ranged from those who preferred to remove as many signs as possible not only within the Town limits but along the gateways to Highlands as well to those who felt that we needed not only ”welcome” signs but signs which help visitors find their way around Town.    There definitely was consensus on what we do not want for Highlands – to become overly commercialized like Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge Tennessee. 

Local historian Ran Shaffner says. “It’s important that the community feel a sense of pride and ownership for this project to be Town effort..”    The group has met with business and government leaders and will visit many of the venues in Highlands over the next two days.   On Wednesday afternoon, a public meeting will be held at the Civic Center to share the findings and offer suggestions for signage, logos and artwork for use in promoting our community.

For more information about Highlands and Cashiers North Carolina, and for access to the HighlandsNC/CashiersNC MLS, contact Meadows Mountain Realty today, 866-526-3558 or email us today at info@meadowsmtnrealty.com.

Meadows Mountain Realty, Highlands NC Real Estate

Have you been waiting for just the right Highlands NC property? Wait no more, 36 Rocky Ridge Road in Highlands is just the property you have been waiting for! This lovely listing presents an opportunity to buy a prime Highlands NC getaway. This 3 bedroom, 3 ½ bath home is situated on a fantastic lot, offering great mountain, golf and lake views, plus all the  natural beauty that Highlands NC offers.

Located in the Valley Vista Subdivision this Highlands NC real estate boasts Highlands Falls Country Club living without the high HOA fees. This lovely home was remodeled in 2002 and offers beautiful wide plank floors, vaulted ceilings, large open spaces, and a spacious outside deck complete with a fireplace. Golf, swimming, clubhouse, and fitness center are nearby.

If peace and tranquility are what you seek then this Highlands home is a must-see. Today’s exceptional affordability levels combined with a motivated seller make this Highlands NC real estate too good to pass up. Contact us today to schedule a showing of this home or any other home currently listed for sale in Highlands NC.

For more information about Highlands and Cashiers North Carolina, and for access to the HighlandsNC/CashiersNC MLS, contact Meadows Mountain Realty today, 866-526-3558 or email us today at info@meadowsmtnrealty.com.

Maggie the Cat will heat up the cold evenings in Highlands as the Highlands-Cashiers Players set the stage for “Cat on A Hot Tin Roof” slated for February 23rd through 26th and March 2nd – 4th at the Martin-Lipscomb Performing Arts Center.   The winner of the 1955 Pulitzer Prize for Drama, this play is one of the finest examples of southern genre theatre.  The finely drawn characters and compelling dialoge has made the play a theatre lovers favorite even a half century after it’s debut.

We all remember the movie version featuring Elizabeth Taylor, Paul Newman and Burl Ives and  embrace the genius of  iconic playwright Tennessee Williams.  The play is thought provoking as it tackles the difficulty of family communication and the way we deal with those closest to us.   

The play is sponsored in part by local radio station WHLC with evening performances at 7:30 pm  and Sunday Matinees at 2:30 pm.   The Martin-Lipscomb Performing Arts Center is located at 507 Chestnut Street in Highlands.  For ticket information call 828.526.8084 or visit their website at www.highlandscashiersplayers.org.

For more information about Highlands and Cashiers North Carolina, and for access to the HighlandsNC/CashiersNC MLS, contact Meadows Mountain Realty today, 866.526.3558 or email us today at info@meadowsmtnrealty.com.

Highlands NC Real Estate / Meadows Mountain Realty

There is good news for Highlands NC real estate in that data suggests that the second home market is looking strong. A recent article from Realty Times, “Real Estate Drops But Second Home Market May See Increase”, suggests that buyers in many areas are waiting for home prices to hit bottom before buying a primary residence but that the second home market is showing strength. Highlands NC is the home of many vacation homes.

Why do people see strength in the second home market? As a large chunk of the population nears retirement age they start thinking about where they would like to retire, which is often in second home markets. Highlands NC is a desirable second home spot and retirement spot because of the quality of life it offers.

There are many healthy activities in Highlands, offering residents an active lifestyle. Whether you prefer golf and tennis or fly fishing and tennis, outdoor activities are accented by the cultural offerings and shopping and dining available in the area as well. The climate and beauty of Highlands North Carolina are appealing to say the least.

Contact us today to learn more about living in Highlands NC. We have access to all Highlands NC real estate that is currently listed for sale and can help you get to know our unique and wonderful area.

Click here to read “Real Estate Drops But Second Home Market May See Increase” from Realty Times.

For more information about Highlands and Cashiers North Carolina, and for access to the HighlandsNC/CashiersNC MLS, contact Meadows Mountain Realty today, 866-526-3558 or email us today at info@meadowsmtnrealty.com.

Meadows Mountain Realty, Highlands NC Real Estate

If you have been looking to buy Highlands NC real estate and have been waiting for just the right home, look no further we have a fantastic one level home listed for sale and it won’t disappoint! Wonderfully appointed and in immaculate condition, this Highlands home is a must-see.

Located in the Highlands Falls Country Club Subdivision, 35 Elm Court is situated on a cul-de-sac, offering the privacy and serenity that so many seek in Highlands NC. Close to the clubhouse, this Highlands NC home is perfect for anyone who would like to have a social membership or a golfing membership at the Highlands Falls Country Club, although membership is completely optional.

This Elm Court home is spread out on one level and includes 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, a beautifully remodeled kitchen, a wonderful living room, large family room, and a lovely flat yard with a fenced in area that is ideal for pets. Comfortable, attractive, and well-laid out, this home offers its owners a perfect Highlands NC retreat.

Contact us today to schedule a showing of this home or any other Highlands NC real estate that is currently listed for sale. There couldn’t be a better time to be a buyer and we have access to some the area’s finest homes.

For more information about Highlands and Cashiers North Carolina, and for access to the HighlandsNC/CashiersNC MLS, contact Meadows Mountain Realty today, 866-526-3558 or email us today at info@meadowsmtnrealty.com.

Meadows Moutain Realty, Highlands NC Real Estate & community information

Everyone’s favorite inn in Highlands NC has received a green award. The Old Edwards Inn and Spa has been awarded the NC Green Travel Award, and is the first in its industry in North Carolina to receive such an award.

The Old Edwards Inn and Spa in Highlands NC has implemented eco-friendly strategies in its day to day operations, including growing its own organic produce and serving fresh local food, utilizing energy efficient light bulbs, and improving insulation for energy conservancy.

The Old Edwards Inn and Spa has been a popular Highlands destination for many years. The inn’s efforts toward reducing its carbon footprint are helping to put Highlands NC on the map for being a green destination. The environment in Highlands is one of spectacular beauty, with nature being a huge draw for both residents and visitors alike.

Contact us today to learn more about Highlands North Carolina. We have access to all Highlands NC real estate that is currently listed for sale and can help you locate an environmentally friendly home in a beautiful setting.

Click here to read a recent article from The Examiner titled “Old Edwards Inn and Spa Receives First NC Green Travel Award From the NCDEAO”.

For more information about Highlands and Cashiers North Carolina, and for access to the HighlandsNC/CashiersNC MLS, contact Meadows Mountain Realty today, 866-526-3558 or email us today at info@meadowsmtnrealty.com.

Highlands NC Real Estate / Meadows Mountain Realty

If you are looking at Highlands NC real estate and considering buying a second home in the area, there are some points to consider throughout the process. Owning a vacation property is on the top of many bucket lists, and Highlands NC certainly provides an ideal spot for this dream to come true. In addition, there could not be a better time to invest in real estate, be it in Highlands or elsewhere. Still, locating a bargain that is truly a bargain takes a great deal of consideration.

So, what should you be thinking of when looking at Highlands NC real estate? Size, condition, and location are the first three items that come to mind. How many bedrooms would you like versus how many bedrooms do you actually need is one question to ask yourself. When you own a vacation home in Highlands NC you will have guests, that is a given.

How much will your new Highlands vacation home cost you? There is more than the upfront home price to consider. There will be property taxes, and utilities, as well as costs for general maintenance and repairs. If you rent your Highlands home you could help recoup some of your costs. Is this something that you would like to do?

Where would you like your vacation home to be? On a golf course? In town? On the lake? Do you want a maintenance-free condo, or a home on acreage? Considering the location will help you realize what you are truly looking for in a Highlands vacation property, which will in turn narrow your search.

Contact us today to learn more about Highlands NC real estate. We can help you realize your dreams of owning a vacation home and find the property that suits your individual needs!

For more information about Highlands and Cashiers North Carolina, and for access to the HighlandsNC/CashiersNC MLS, contact Meadows Mountain Realty today, 866-526-3558 or email us today at info@meadowsmtnrealty.com.

Meadows Mountain Realty, Highlands NC real estate

Fulfill your New Year’s resolution and buy Highlands NC real estate. Most of us have at least one resolution on the dawn of each new year, involving some semblance of self-improvement, healthier living, or becoming a better person after a period of self-reflection. If you have a resolution involving being healthier, more active, or perhaps to simply spend more time with family and less time working, then buying a Highlands NC home could help your realize your desires to improve your life!

Buying Highlands NC real estate offers an opportunity to spend time outdoors, participating in multiple activities (from epic fly fishing to exceptional golf), enjoy some of the finest restaurants in all of North Carolina, and the opportunity to create a lifetime of memories with family and friends.

Contact us today to examine Highlands real estate opportunities in the new year. We are ending 2011 on a positive note, with better economic news and extremely low mortgage rates. We can help you locate the Highlands property that will best suit your needs and help you fulfill your new year’s resolutions in the process.

For more information about Highlands and Cashiers North Carolina, and for access to the HighlandsNC/CashiersNC MLS, contact Meadows Mountain Realty today, 866-526-3558 or email us today at info@meadowsmtnrealty.com.