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The Importance of Home Winterization in the Mountains

meadowsmtn — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 20:59:34 +0000

Winterizing is taking precautions to prevent cold weather related disasters. This winter of 2011-2012 has been most unusual. Although we saw temperatures in Highlands dip to 7 degrees in early December and some snow, January turned out to be the most mild in recent memory.

Cold winter temperatures can play havoc with household plumbing, particularly in seasonal homes, and in year round homes when the residents leave for a vacation. Traditionally we counter this by turning off the water “at the street,” or well pump. Then we open all the faucets, drain the toilets, dishwasher, washing machine, refrigerator. Employ RV/marine antifreeze in the traps. The next level of defense is to drain the main lines. Insulating pipes in crawlspaces, sealing air infiltration gaps in foundation walls, keeping heat on at a low level such as 52 degrees. Ask yourself what will freeze should there be high winds or an ice storm and downed power lines? If you feel awkward about accomplishing these protective measures yourself, consider hiring a professional property manager or plumber to take care of this for you.

Even for year round homes it makes sense to be aware of these steps in case of that power loss. Stock your pantry with candles, flashlight batteries, drinking water, pet food and non-perishable food. Getting snowed in, even without a power loss, seems less romantic with every passing hour.

If you are thinking about using an auxiliary kerosene heater, or gasoline generator, remember to provide fresh air for ventilation, and a Carbon monoxide detector to monitor your success.

For more information on winter home care, please contact Bill Peavey at Meadows Mountain Realty at 828.526.1717 or contact Bill by email at billp@meadowsmtnrealty.com.

Use Tax Season to Organize for the Future

meadowsmtn — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 17:21:37 +0000

Jane was not looking forward to going through her parents’ belongings to get their house ready to sell. Their health had been failing for some time and they finally agreed to move to a retirement community. Now that they were both comfortably moved into their new apartment, it was up to Jane to get rid of the things they no longer needed.

Her parents had lived in the same house for more than 50 years, so Jane expected to find things that should have been tossed out years ago. But she was amazed to discover 50 years of tax returns and bank statements carefully stored in boxes in the attic. Her parents had saved all their financial records!

Many people are confused about what records they need to keep and for how long. They hold onto tax returns, bank records, brokerage statements and other financial information simply because they don’t know if they’ll need it again. Like Jane’s parents, the documents get packed in boxes that eventually take over valuable living or storage space.

Financial planner Rick Rodgers, author of The New Three-Legged Stool: A Tax Efficient Approach To Retirement Planning (www.TheNewThreeLeggedStool.com), says tax time is a great time to get organized.

“Most people are going through their records to get ready to file their return,” he says. “This is the time to get smart about what you need to keep and then set up a system to store it efficiently going forward.”

Rodgers suggests these five steps to help you effectively organize your finances for 2012 and beyond:

1. Out with the old – Discard the records you no longer need: Tax returns older than seven years; bank records and credit card statements that are not related to the tax returns you’re keeping; brokerage statements that aren’t related to purchases of current holdings. Be sure to shred all your old documents before throwing them out.

2. Go digital – Convert the documents you plan to save into digital images that are stored on your hard drive. Invest in a good scanner and scan as you go through your paperwork, shredding and tossing the hard copies as you go. On your computer, file by tax year, so your 2011 folder will contain your tax return for 2011 and all pertinent bank records and receipts. Organize the previous six years the same way. Next year you can delete the oldest folder when you add the 2012 folder.

3. Save a forest – All of the financial institutions you deal with would prefer to send your statements electronically. Stop receiving paper statements. Instead, download your statements electronically and store them in your new filing system. Most banks and credit card companies keep at least a year’s worth of statements available. You need to download these files only once a year to complete the year’s file.

4. Save backups in case of emergency – Make backup copies of your files on a CD. Choose a CD-R (recordable) as opposed to a CD-RW (rewriteable), because CD-R cannot accidentally be overwritten. Depending on your computer operating system, you may be able to continue adding data to a CD-R each year, until the CD is full. However, some operating systems won’t allow that, so you’ll need a new CD for each year.

5. Go paperless – Your new electronic filing system can be expanded to include all your financial records, from car maintenance receipts to pay stubs. Wills and insurance policies can also be scanned and stored but, of course, keep the originals of those in a safe deposit box or fireproof safe.

Gone are the days of saving your financial documents in box and shoving it into the attic. Technology advances have made organizing your personal finances easier with minimal cost. Make 2012 the year you get organized by moving your finances into a 21st century filing system. For more information, visit www.rodgersspeaks.com.

For more information about Highlands and Cashiers North Carolina, and for access to the HighlandsNC/CashiersNC MLS, contact Meadows Mountain Realty today, 828-526-1717 or email us today at info@meadowsmtnrealty.com.

Highlands NC Hotel Receives Recognition

meadowsmtn — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 00:56:35 +0000

A Highlands NC hotel has recently received some very positive recognition. The Old Edwards Inn and Spa was noted as a top hotel in the United States, quite an accolade for the Highlands NC cornerstone. TripAdvisor just published a list of the 25 best hotels in the USA, and the Old Edwards Inn and Spa was granted fourth place.

When one thinks about all of the incredible destinations in our nation, from beach locales and cities to desert towns and mountain villages, there are numerous spots from which to choose for a vacation. The honor of the Old Edwards filling the shoes of a best hotel is more than great news for the hotel, it is great news for Highlands North Carolina.

Highlands NC is a popular destination in the Southern Blue Ridge Mountains. The stunning scenery offers a magnificent backdrop for a myriad of outdoor activities, from golfing and fishing to hiking and biking. In addition our fabulous area offers top notch shopping, fine dining, and of course luxurious pampering.

Contact us today to learn more about vacationing in Highlands NC. We have access to all Highlands NC real estate that is currently listed for sale as well as some fabulous Highlands vacation properties available for rent.

Click here to read more about TripAdvisor’s list of the 25 best hotels in the USA.

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.

Romance Alive in Highlands NC This Weekend

meadowsmtn — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 19:27:19 +0000

Meadows Mountain Realty, Highlands NC Real Estate

Romance will be alive in Highlands NC this weekend, a little precursor to the holiday of love that falls in February. The annual Romance Weekend puts a little love in the air and offers a variety of lodging, dining, shopping and spa specials throughout Highlands. This is a great opportunity to escape and start the year off appreciating your special someone. The Romance Weekend will take place from Friday January 20th through Sunday, January 22nd.

On Friday there will be a delightfully romantic dinner at the Cyprus in Highlands. Island Hopping the Med will be a Mediterranean inspired multi course dinner prepared by Chef Nicholas Figel. Complete with champagne this will be a lovely meal to enjoy with your love.

One highlight of the Romance Weekend in Highlands NC will be at the Old Edwards Inn and Spa, where a sumptuous dinner can be followed by a champagne toast and tango dancing to live music. There will also be free guided hikes for those taking advantage of the Romance Weekend package at the Old Edwards Inn, and of course ample opportunities to indulge in the spa.

If you like to expand your skills there will also be a photography class offered this weekend at The Bascom, taught by photographer Newington on Saturday from 10 am to 4 pm. The Bascom will also be hosting a fabulous exhibit throughout the weekend, The Bascom Instructors Exhibit, which will be on display through the first of March.

If you own a home in Highlands North Carolina you can have a weekend of romance any time you want. Contact us today to learn more about Highlands NC real estate opportunities. We have some of the area’s finest homes listed and can help you find your dream getaway.

Inn in Highlands NC Receives Green Award

meadowsmtn — Thu, 12 Jan 2012 10:17:56 +0000

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”.

Winter Barn Dances, Special Times in Highlands NC

meadowsmtn — Mon, 09 Jan 2012 20:43:34 +0000

Winter barn dances offer special times in Highlands NC. In fact one of the greatest aspects of life in Highlands NC is the ability to get away from it all, through a variety of fun, social activities, both outdoors and indoors. The winter barn dances, held at The Bascom in Highlands North Carolina, offer a unique opportunity to step back in time and let loose on the dance floor.

Dancing away the evening is a wonderful way to enjoy a weekend night and in Highlands NC everyone looks forward to the opportunity to partake in a barn dance. The winter barn dances will take place at The Bascom on January 28, February 25, and March 31, from 7 pm to 10 pm. Live music, beverages, and dinner will be available. The cost is $5 per person but the experience is priceless!

Whether you live in Highlands NC or are simply visiting, the barn dances offer a great way to mingle with old friends and make new friends, demonstrating one of the truly unique experiences to be had in our wonderful area.

Contact us today to learn more about Highlands NC. In addition to providing access to all Highlands NC real estate that is currently available for sale, we can help you get to know why so many choose Highlands NC as a backdrop for their memories in the making.

Click here to learn more about barn dances in Highlands NC.

Highlands NC Birds Put On Map

meadowsmtn — Fri, 23 Dec 2011 02:12:01 +0000

Birds who inhabit Highlands NC have been put on the map, a bird map that is. Audubon North Carolina has recently published a a detailed book complete with information about the most notable bird habitats in North Carolina. Important Bird Areas of North

Meadows Mountain Realty, Highlands NC real estate

Carolina is a full-color publication available online pointing out important bird habitats, and the Highlands Plateau is highlighted as an important area for a few types of birds.

The Highlands NC area is known for its birding but it is important to recognize it for its responsibility towards specific bird species as well. Noted birds that call Highlands home for at least part of the year include the Canada Warbler, the Veery, and the Brown Creeper. Protection of these bird species is important to Audubon North Carolina. Click here to learn more about Important Bird Areas of North Carolina and perhaps download the publication.

Highlands NC is an area dedicated to preserving natural habitats as well as enjoying the great outdoors. Please contact us today to learn more about our unique area, as well as to explore the number of exceptional Highlands NC real estate opportunities that currently exist.

Inn in Highlands NC Expanding

meadowsmtn — Sun, 18 Dec 2011 15:26:03 +0000

Everyone’s favorite inn in Highlands NC is expanding. The Old Edwards Inn and Spa recently announced plans for expansion that include additional rooms and additional amenities. Whether you stay at the Old Edwards Inn and Spa or simply visit it for its fine dining or spa services, when you are in Highlands North Carolina, you are aware of the inn’s unique and special character. The expansion of the Highlands landmark will be in keeping with its current design and structure.

Among the new additions to the Highlands property are new rooms, guest cottages, and an outdoor heated mineral pool. The Old Edwards Inn and Spa offers luxurious accommodations and top notch service to those visiting the Highlands NC area. Click here to read a press release on the new changes being made at the Old Edwards Inn and Spa.

Contact us today to learn more about staying in Highlands NC. The Southern Blue Ridge Mountains have so much to offer and Highlands is in the heart of this natural beauty, offering a variety of educational and cultural opportunities as well. We have access to all Highlands NC properties that are currently listed for sale, as well as the experience you need to find your ideal home away from home.

Christmas Parade in Highlands NC Saturday

meadowsmtn — Thu, 01 Dec 2011 02:22:58 +0000

There will be a Christmas parade in Highlands NC this Saturday, a true highlight of the season. The Highlands Olde Mountain Christmas Parade is about to celebrate its 22nd jaunt down Main Street, exhibiting some of the area’s finest local talent, groups and “celebrities”. This parade is nothing short of old time, small town, Highlands NC fun!

The parade will kick off at 11 am on Saturday, December 3rd, offering a perfect opportunity to get in the holiday spirit. Residents of Highlands NC, local groups, churches, businesses, and the fire department will all be represented from the more than 80 entries in this unique holiday parade. Don’t forget, Santa Claus will be present as well!

The holidays are a magical time in Highlands North Carolina. This Saturday alone, aside from the parade, there will be ample ways to get in the spirit, from the closing of the Giving Trees exhibit to caroling, and Christmas crafts. Call us today to learn more about living in Highlands NC. Our unique area offers a place to make memories that will last a lifetime.

Highlands North Carolina, It’s All About The Holidays

meadowsmtn — Fri, 25 Nov 2011 15:34:08 +0000

Highlands NC Real Estate and Meadows Mountain Realty

In Highlands North Carolina it is all about the holidays at this time of year. Still full from Thanksgiving many have started their holiday shopping, others have already begun to decorate their Highlands homes, and others are simply taking in the cheer that is available at this time of year. Saturday is a day filled with holiday festivities in Highlands, certain to put a smile on the faces of residents and visitors alike.

This Saturday, November 26, anyone in Highlands NC can participate in the annual lighting of the tree, meet Santa, or perhaps create an art project for someone special. Whether you are feeling creative, festive, or both, you will certainly have a wonderful time in Highlands this weekend.

Saturday, November 26

Santa will be available at the Highlands Visitor Center from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m., and again after the tree lighting ceremony at 7:15 p.m. This is a great opportunity for a photo, to whisper a wish in Santa’s ear, and to make a memory that will last a lifetime.
The Highlands Annual Christmas Tree Lighting will take place at 6:30 p.m. at the Highlands Methodist Church. Fun for the whole family this annual event has singing, Santa, and a big beautiful tree!
The Bascom has a variety of activities for all ages on Saturday. From knitting and needlepoint to “Friends Around the Globe” children’s activities, there is always an opportunity to get hands-on at The Bascom. In addition there is the ongoing Giving Trees exhibition and a marketplace to buy unique gifts.

Highlands North Carolina is a beautiful setting in which to live, and those who are lucky enough to visit our neck of the woods dream of returning. Contact us today to learn about Highlands NC real estate opportunities, insuring your return to our unique quality of life and stunning mountain setting, again and again.