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Highlands NC Real Estate, Second Home Market Looking Strong

meadowsmtn — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 18:42:29 +0000

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.

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.

Highlands NC Real Estate, Fantastic One Level Home For Sale

meadowsmtn — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 18:18:42 +0000

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.

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.

Mortgage Rates Staying Low, Great for Cashiers NC Real Estate

meadowsmtn — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 04:08:06 +0000

Cashiers NC Real Estate, Meadows Mountain Real Estate

Mortgage rates have been staying low which is great for Cashiers NC real estate. It has now been 8 weeks in a row that rates have stayed below 4%, an amazing and unheard of feat. Real estate data around the country appears to be more positive yet rates will most likely remain low until recovery has truly permeated all corners of the US, which is great for Cashiers real estate.

There are many opportunities in Cashiers NC, whether you be looking for a primary residence or a vacation home. These opportunities are enriched by low rates which can save a great deal of money over the lifetime of a loan and make monthly payments significantly less.

This past week mortgage rates were averaging 3.98% for a 30 year fixed rate loan, a benefit not to just home buyers but a benefit to owners of Cashiers real estate who wish to refinance their current loans as well.

Now is a great time to consider whether refinancing or buying Cashers real estate is right for you. Contact us today to learn more about Cashiers NC real estate, we know lenders and can help introduce you to one who will make buying your dream home a reality.

Click here to read “Mortgage Rates Reverse Course on Positive Housing Data”, from Realty Times.

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.

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 Real Estate, Things to Consider When Buying a Second Home

meadowsmtn — Thu, 05 Jan 2012 18:48:08 +0000

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!