Smoky Mtn Black Bear
As areas become more populated with people, wildlife comes out of their comfort zones to forge for food. This year there have been more bear and coyote sightings than ever before in Haywood County.
Some of the carnivores that live in the mountains are black bears, bobcats, skunks, coyotes, raccoons, weasels, wolves, and more.
I do not tell you this to frighten you. Just to inform you. Living in the mountains in peaceful harmony with nature takes some common sense and measures. Clean up debris, seal home and other buildings; don’t leave trash or food out. Most of these animals have a keen sense of smell. You should always avoid contact with a wild animal. Although some are cute and look cuddly; looks can be deceiving.
Bears have become clever forging for food from human sources like dumpsters, trash cans, orchards, even parked cars. They are also excellent climbers. Black bears mate between mid-June and mid-July; they hibernate through the winter months. The males weight approximately 130 up to 600 lbs. Females from 100 to 400 lbs. They have good eyesight, smell, and hearing. One of the most interesting sites I have viewed on NC black bears can be found at http://www.covebear.com/BlackBearDens.htm You can experience black bears in their dens. This is a very well done site with loads of information.
Coyotes were introduced to control the deer population. Their number is increasing. For photo and a little information go to http://www.extension.org/pages/8604/coyotes
So remember these tips: Do not feed wildlife! Remove and/or secure food sources! Protect yourself – do not approach animals in the wild. Keep dogs under control!
Report all wildlife sightings in people inhabited areas. Learn how to co-exist. Come live safely in the Great Smokies and Western North Carolina. The beauty here is second to none.
Lyndia Massey, Realtor, Exit Hometown Realty, Maggie Valley, NC
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Did you know the fall colors we enjoy are nature’s way of protecting the trees? There has been a new scientific discovery on fall foliage and the colors that are so vibrant. I would like to share a link with you so that you can discover the story and enjoy some of the most breathtaking photos of fall this writer has ever seen. CLICK HERE FOR YOUR FALL PREVIEW!
Now we know we are well into fall, the colors peaking, long sleeves coming out of the closets, and thoughts of lighting the first fire in the fireplace. Now for the winter lovers, we even have a hint of our first snowfall due to arrive this week. Days are pleasant with temperatures in the high 50’s and lower 60’s. Nights are promising to drop to the upper 20’s and low 30’s. That is why we love the mountains; they tease with promises to come. Grab your long sleeves and come join us. Ahhh…..FALL! – Lyndia Massey, Realtor, Exit Hometown Real Estate, Maggie Valley, NC
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Do you remember looking for your home? What did you look for? Top on our list for buyers is, and I know you have heard it before, CURB APPEAL.
What does curb appeal mean? Very simply, cleanliness: house, yards, and garage. If you have your house on the market look at it from a buyer’s eye. Take down all the personal pictures, clean up those corners, make it a showcase home. Visit a model home and take your cue from there. It doesn’t have to be expensive fixes but things like cleaning, even drawers, painting, and yard cleanup will go a long way in attracting a buyer to your home. Set yourself out from your competition. Try to go through your home as if it were the first visit, what do you see? What do you smell? Is there mildew in the shower, trash in the corners, dirty laundry visible, or even dust bunnies? A little elbow grease, a little fresh paint, a little Internet research for tips to get your home in tip top shape, and a good REALTOR….your ready!
Happy Selling. – Lyndia Massey, Exit Hometown Realty, Maggie Valley, NC
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Sellers can be more motivated to deal at the end of the year.
Most buyers move in the summer so summer months are peak for real estate. The smart buyer can take advantage of a slower period and can possibly have that home of their dreams for a substantial savings. If the seller is motivated then your negotiation power is greater. On the average you can save from 1 to 3% on a home in the fall and winter if the seller is motivated to sell.
If you were a seller in the summer months and you need to satisfy the 180 days period from that sales closing to meet the capital-gains deferring 1031 exchange requirements; fall and winter are the times to act.
Here in the mountains the fall scenery is brilliant, the air crisp and cool, and if you are looking for a vacation home at a higher elevation; fall is the perfect time to find that home. It is to be noted that some of the winter months you may not be able to get to the location to see the home and property. Find it in the fall; close by the end of the year, enjoy in the summer!
Whatever you are seeking, year round living or vacation home, fall in Maggie Valley is a must see. Of course, it would be my honor and privilege to be your realtor of choice.
Have a happy fall and thank you for following my blogs. I am appreciative. Lyndia Massey, Exit Hometown Realty, Maggie Valley, NC
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In 2009 reports showed that 78% of internet users were United States residents. That makes a pretty big target. As a responsible Realtor I have an interest in knowing what is out there and what to warn my clients about. Unfortunately, these types of scam(s) can happen to anyone. The best defense is to research and the old adage that “If it sounds too good to be true….well you know the rest”!
I want to share with you some links on this subject. Not all internet scam is limited to real estate but interesting enough real estate too has become a victim.
The first site is the IC3 (The Internet Crime Complaint Center) http://www.ic3.gov/default.aspx here you will find the latest consumer alerts and you can file a complaint if you suspect internet fraud.
The next is the official FBI (Federal Bureau of Investigation) site http://www.fbi.gov/scams-safety/fraud/internet_fraud they list the common fraud schemes and have many safety tips.
The last link is a blog written on the Nigerian real estate scam by a Realtor in Fredericksburg, VA. I would do you a disservice if I did not share her link. The writing is interesting and the research extensive. When I first came across this blog my thought was my readers need to know this information too. http://sarahiouslyspeaking.com/2009/06/internet-real-estate-scam-update-2/
As I have said in the past; with this type of information available to us all there is no need to rewrite on the same subject just share with everyone the information that is out there for all of our benefits.
Happy home hunting and safe surfing! – Lyndia Massey, Realtor, Exit Hometown Realty / Maggie Valley, NC.
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If you are looking for a home or property in Haywood County, NC our six cities are Maggie Valley, Waynesville, Lake Junaluska, Clyde, Canton, and Hazelwood. We have 15 townships. At this writing there are 27,747 records in Haywood County and 3,347 for sale.
Haywood County was formed in 1808 and was named for John Haywood, state treasure of NC from 1824 to 1827.
We are situated in the Blue Ridge Mountains, the Great Smoky Mountains in the west, Plott Balsams and Great Balsam Mountains in the South. A portion of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is in the northwestern sections of the county just north of Maggie Valley. Several mountains rise over 6,000 feet in elevation.
From the Pisgah National Forest to the peak of the famous Cold Mountain; the views, terrain, and culture will amaze you. Haywood County is a sought after vacation destination and to own your own little piece of it is a dream come true for many people.
With prices down across the country, low interest rates, and amazing homes to choose from now is the time to visit and perhaps make your own Mountain Dream come true.
Fall colors peak around here about mid-October; that just gives you time to pack your bag, book your reservation, and come on! See you soon– Lyndia Massey / Realtor / Exit Hometown Realty, Maggie Valley, NC 828.400.0282
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As September 11th approaches there are reminders everywhere of the American tragedy we all now know as 911. The stories, the images, the meaning will forever remain in our hearts and minds. How can they not? It is how these types of life changing events are handled and we as a people CHOOSE to pick up the pieces. Story after story you hear about people setting up foundations and helping others to honor their loved ones memories. For all that can go wrong in the name of religion, freedom, or other causes the human condition is to make a difference; isn’t this the best we can ask for? To me,it is! As long as we care for one another, as long as we remember, we can as a combine effort make a difference. Not just here in America, but across the world. Tragedy no matter how it comes, man made or by nature is just that…..tragic! Never lose your caring America, forgive and know that the bad actions of a few are not that of an entire people. How we have handled tragedy throughout history makes me proud to be an American. No matter what; we have shown as a people that we care!
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Are you watching the headlines? Homes sales across thecounty are on an upward trend. Mortgage rates reported “hitting historical lows”. Rates expected to climb but still expected to stay around 5.5 to 6% by the end of2012. Bank-owned homes selling for far less than comparable homes and on thenational average it is considerable: about 40% less. “Chicago”- buyers rush tomake offers and this trend is hitting the country. What does that say to me asa Realtor? The same thing it should say to you as a buyer; with interest ratesat an all time low, sometimes under 3%, now is the time to buy and/orrefinance. Please understand that rates can vary in your area but it is easy toget today’s rates by going to sites like www.bankrate.com– there will be a place for you to enter your zip code and check it out. As oftoday, September 2nd, 2011 the results range for Asheville, NC was4.10% APR to 4.63% APR for a 30 year fixed mortgage with 0 points; for a 15year fixed mortgage with 0 points the range was 3.25% APR – 4.70% APR with thenational average of 3.48%.
Thinking of buying, selling, or investing? It’s worth yourtime to check it out. Amazing tools are available to us all. – Have a superLabor Day Weekend! – Lyndia Massey
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Did you ever notice that the headlines today that raise the hair on the back of our necks seem to change tomorrow and the next day, etc?
You see headlines like that and you have to stop to consider the source. As a Realtor; it is my job to keep up with what affects my clients and the industry I have chosen to serve. President Obama proposed in his budget to stop high-income earners’ mortgage interest payments deductions as well as charitable deductions. Under this proposal, taxpayers in the 33% and 35% tax brackets would only be able to deduct their contributions for either at the 28% rate. – Tami Luhby, senior writer money.cnn.com
When you read these kind of reports; it makes me proud to be part of an organization that is looking out for all of us. The real estate industry is a strong voice in Washington. Did you know that the Realtors Association and the Home Building Industries spent in excess of $68 million on lobbying in 2010? Tami Luhby, senior writer money.cnn.com
We all agree that the tax break makes owning a home more affordable and our National Board of Realtors and the Home Building Industries and working to have their voices heard for all of us.
In my opinion – that is why home sellers and buyers need a reputable Realtor on their side; changes can affect the way you buy or sell. What was good today may not be tomorrow. Wherever you are; seek out a Realtor who knows your area and the laws that affect you. You would not go to a mechanic for dental work; don’t go real estate alone. Knowledge is a powerful tool in any industry; assign knowledgeable people to be on your team.
Until next time – do your homework and happy selling and investing – Lyndia Massey, Broker/ABR
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Biltmore House in Asheville, NC
I like to explore all the wonderful things Western North Carolina has to offer. I confess; I am a seasoned ticket owner for the famous “Biltmore House” in neighboring Asheville. There are a lot of events that are worth checking out at the Biltmore House. Just though I would share the link with you. Come see us in Maggie Valley and make the Biltmore House at Biltmore Estate one of your NC days. You’ll be glad you did.
Click Here To Learn More. Enjoy! – Lyndia
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