lynn

Highlands NC Homes, Landscape Matters

October 14, 2021 by lynn

Highlands NC Homes, Landscape Matters

Landscape matters when it comes to Highlands NC homes. Our mountain community is known for its stunning natural environment, inciting a great appreciation for the outdoors. As such, properties capitalize on native plants, bushes, and trees that thrive and add aesthetic value to homes. Outdoor living spaces matter in the mountains and add value and appeal to Highlands NC properties.

Buyers are drawn to beautiful yards

Buyers of Highlands NC real estate are attracted to homes with attractive yards. This can mean simple, understated yet well-kept yards or yards with ornate flower beds and trimmed hedges. Regardless of the extent of the landscaping, utilizing atrial features like creeks and ponds can add ambiance to any home. Everyone wants space to enjoy the fresh mountain air and natural beauty outside and when this can be done at home it adds greatly to anyone’s lifestyle.

Maintenance matters

Maintaining the landscape surrounding a Highlands NC home equates to protecting an investment. This includes the front yard, backyard, and outdoor living spaces like decks, patios, and fire pits. Additionally, spring and fall are great times to focus on these spaces. While spring is a time to prepare for summer, fall is the time to put everything to bed for winter. Right now leaves should be raked, irrigation systems should be blown, and flowers should be cut back. This is also a great time of year for planning landscape improvements for the coming year.

Learn more about Highlands NC homes

Contact me, Lynn Kimball, today to learn more about Highlands NC real estate. I welcome the opportunity to update you on the market while answering all of your buying and selling questions. Let my knowledge and experience serve as your guide to Highlands NC homes.

Click here to read “Yard Appeal Is a Priority for Buyers” from REALTOR Magazine.

Buying Highlands NC Real Estate, Choosing a REALTOR

October 10, 2021 by lynn

Buying Highlands NC Real Estate, Choosing a REALTOR

Lynn Kimball, answering all of your Highlands NC real estate questions

Choosing a REALTOR is an important step when buying Highlands NC real estate. Buying a home can be complicated, from navigating the market and conducting a property search to making an offer and securing financing. Having experience on your side can make the buying process run more smoothly. The right Highlands NC REALTOR can help ensure that you are making a wise investment.

Find the right REALTOR

Finding the right Highlands NC REALTOR involves taking time to select someone with whom you feel confident and comfortable. It is important to have a good fit when selecting a REALTOR. As a result, a buyer should understand that he does not have to go with the first REALTOR he meets. Get recommendations from family and friends and talk to a few real estate professionals. Furthermore, keep talking to real estate professionals until you know you have a match. There is no pressure and not everyone will be a good fit.

Ask Questions

Asking questions will help you find out important information. Find out how long a REALTOR has lived in the area. Also, ask how long a REALTOR has been working in real estate. It is important to get referrals as well. Check out current listings and ask about recent sales. The more information you can get the better! It is important to realize that how a REALTOR appears on paper can be different than meeting them in person. Find a person that is compatible. If you have confidence in your REALTOR then the buying process will run more smoothly.

Learn more about buying Highlands NC real estate

Contact me, Lynn Kimball, today to learn more about buying a home in Highlands NC. I welcome the opportunity to update you on market conditions while walking you through the buying process. Let my knowledge and experience serve as your guide to buying Highlands NC real estate.

Click here to read “How to Find a Real Estate Agent: A Few Things You Might Not Have Thought Of” from Realty Times.

Selling Highlands NC Real Estate, Eliminate Outdoor Clutter

October 7, 2021 by lynn

Selling Highlands NC Real Estate, Eliminate Outdoor Clutter

Lynn Kimball, Highlands NC real estate

Selling Highlands NC real estate involves preparation and this includes eliminating outdoor clutter. Everyone remembers to de-clutter the inside of a home but it may be easy to forget the outside. Curb appeal is a home's calling card and this includes everything a potential buyer will see when he pulls up to a home for the first time. The more attractive a home appears from the exterior, the more inviting a Highlands NC home will be.

Look around

It is so important to walk around a Highlands NC property prior to listing it. Furthermore, the more objective you can be, the better. Make sure there is not an excessive amount of patio furniture. Additionally, furniture should be arranged thoughtfully. Focus on walkways as well, making sure they are free from obstacles and nicely edged and weed-free. Likewise, steps and porches should be free of clutter. Look around the yard as well and make sure that toys and tools are organized and contained.

Looks matter

Appearance is important when preparing a Highlands NC home for sale. The exterior is, after all, the first thing that buyers will see. A home that is neat and organized inside and out holds appeal to buyers. It is extremely important to remember that you will never get a second chance to make a first impression. Pay attention to a home's curb appeal and help it get sold.

Learn more about selling Highlands NC real estate

Contact me, Lynn Kimball, today to learn more about selling Highlands NC homes. I welcome the opportunity to update you on market conditions while sharing a complimentary listing presentation at the same time. Let my knowledge and experience serve as your guide to selling Highlands NC real estate.

Click here to read "7 Curb Appeal Mistakes You Need to Avoid" from HGTV.

Highlands NC Homes, Value Found In Small Upgrades

October 3, 2021 by lynn

Highlands NC Homes, Value Found In Small Upgrades

Value can be found in small upgrades to Highlands NC homes. While remodeling and renovating can be costly ventures to undertake, there are relatively small projects that pack a punch without a big hit to the budget. Most homeowners spruce up homes prior to listing them for sale. Take time to understand the impact of small projects and how they can help a Highlands NC home for sale.

Front door

A new front door is an easy and impactful home improvement project. After all, the front door is a home’s calling card. The options are to purchase a new door and have it installed or refresh the current door with a coat of stain or paint. Either way, you can have a new look for your Highlands NC home. Ultimately, this is a low-cost way to update a house.

Lighting

Switching out lighting is another easy update for a home. This can include indoor and outdoor lighting. Replacing dated sconces, chandeliers, and recessed lighting with more modern options can add a wow factor. There are so many options and all you need to do is hire an electrician.

Fixtures and findings

Changing out fixtures in the bathrooms and kitchen, as well as findings like doorknobs, hinges, and drawer pulls is another value-added fix. This is perhaps the easiest and most affordable update for a home. Additionally, this is something most homeowners can tackle on their own. Adding value is a big part of homeownership, protecting the investment and helping tremendously when it comes time to sell.

Learn more about Highlands NC homes

Contact me, Lynn Kimball, today to learn more about Highlands NC real estate. I welcome the opportunity to update you on the market while getting you up to speed on current home trends. Let my knowledge and experience serve as your guide to Highlands NC homes.

Click here to read “3 Minor Upgrades That Boost Value Instantly” from REALTOR Magazine.

Highlands NC Homes, Window Treatments Impactful

September 30, 2021 by lynn

Highlands NC Homes, Window Treatments Impactful

Lynn Kimball, Highlands NC real estate

Window treatments are impactful when it comes to Highlands NC homes. Let’s face it, windows are a very important feature in a home. Furthermore, windows frame exceptional views in our mountain environment. As a result, windows are a huge focus and should be treated as such. Whether you are preparing a Highlands NC home for sale or simply redecorating, consider what window treatments will showcase the windows best.

Windows have a lot to offer

Windows offer views, let in natural light, and open to allow fresh air into a Highlands NC home. There are also times when it is desired to close windows and block the light. As a result, window treatments in bedrooms may have different needs from window treatments than windows in a kitchen or living room. In a living room or dining room, for example, window treatments may serve more of a decorative function. Alternately, window treatments in bedrooms will be used on a daily basis.

Design matters

Window treatments can add a lot of flair to any room. Depending on the overall design of a home, these treatments can follow a color scheme that fits with individual spaces. Additionally, windows come in many sizes. As such, length, material, and style come into play. Among the options are Roman shades, shutters, floor-to-ceiling draperies, and simple curtains. Hopping online to sites like Pinterest and Houzz can offer a glimpse of how different styles can affect the overall look and feel of rooms. Consider taking a close look at the windows in a Highlands NC home when looking at a design update.

Learn more about Highlands NC homes

Contact me, Lynn Kimball, today to learn more about Highlands NC real estate. I welcome the opportunity to update you on market conditions and current design trends. Let my knowledge and experience serve as your guide to Highlands NC homes.

Click here to read “Et Tu, Draperies? The Rise of Roman Shades” from Realty Times.

Buying Highlands NC Real Estate, Best Option a New Home?

September 25, 2021 by lynn

Buying Highlands NC Real Estate, Best Option a New Home?

Lynn Kimball, answering all of your Highlands NC real estate questions

If you are buying Highlands NC real estate have you wondered whether your best option might be a new home? Whether buying new construction or buying land on which to build, a new home could be the answer. A new home can hold great appeal. Not only will this home be brand new but it will most likely have the most up-to-date finishes as well. Sit down with your Highlands NC REALTOR to evaluate your options.

New construction or design and build?

When the decision is made to purchase a new home there are options to consider. An existing new house is most likely a spec house, a home designed and built to put on the market when completed. This can be a great option, offering a home that has never been lived in. The only downside of a newly constructed home is that a buyer is not involved in the decision-making process. The layout, design, and finishes have already been chosen. However, this also removes the stress of making these decisions. Building a new home in Highlands NC gives you the opportunity to choose the size, layout, and design of a home.

New home appeal

A new home holds great appeal but it is not for everyone. Many buyers want to bargain for a house and rarely can you bargain for a new Highlands NC home. A fixer-upper can offer an opportunity to create a virtually new home with negotiating room but renovating costs will have to be factored in. New homes have a lot to offer, especially when a buyer cannot find what he is looking for.

Learn more about buying Highlands NC real estate

Contact me, Lynn Kimball, today to learn more about buying a home in Highlands NC. I welcome the opportunity to update you on the market while getting you prepared for your property search. Let my knowledge and experience serve as your guide to buying Highlands NC real estate.

Click here to read “12 Ways Buying New Construction Is Better, Worse, And Way Different From Other Homes” from Realty Times.

Highlands NC Real Estate, Vacation Home Sales Remain Hot

September 21, 2021 by lynn

Highlands NC Real Estate, Vacation Home Sales Remain Hot

There is no doubt that Highlands NC real estate is fueled by second-home sales and right now vacation sales remain hot around the nation and right here in our mountain community. Throughout the pandemic, vacation home ownership has boomed because of the fact that people can work remotely. As a result, working from paradise holds far more allure than working from an urban area. Individuals and families have been able to enjoy a sought-after quality of life while getting work completed at the same time.

The primary market is cooling

There is evidence that primary markets are cooling down. However, the vacation home market is expected to remain hot. In addition to being occupied by owners, vacation home rentals are a sought-after commodity. As a result, buyers of vacation homes can recoup some costs by renting when not in use. Mountain communities and resort communities that have traditionally seen an off-season are experiencing less downtime.

Highlands NC is a sought-after second home market

Highlands NC homes for sale hold great appeal as second homes. The mountain lifestyle is an active one and many buyers are looking to come to the area to enjoy hiking, biking, fly fishing, and golfing among other activities. Gated communities offering country club memberships like Highlands Falls Country Club, Wildcat Cliffs Country Club, and the Cullasaja Club offer access to social activities in addition to golf, tennis, and fitness facilities.

Learn more about Highlands NC real estate

Contact me, Lynn Kimball, today to learn more about the Highlands NC vacation home market. I welcome the opportunity to update you on market conditions while getting you familiar with the area. Let my knowledge and experience serve as your guide to Highlands NC real estate.

Click here to read “Yun: Vacation-Home Sales Defy Housing Market Slowdown” from REALTOR Magazine.

Selling Highlands NC Real Estate, Keep Anxiety At Bay

September 17, 2021 by lynn

Selling Highlands NC Real Estate, Keep Anxiety At Bay

Lynn Kimball, Highlands NC real estate

Keep anxiety at bay when selling Highlands NC real estate. It’s easy to get anxious. Whether during negotiating, in the midst of the due diligence period, or preparing to move, buying a home is full of anxiety-inducing opportunities. Information and knowledge can certainly help as knowing what to expect can alleviate some frustration. An experienced Highlands NC REALTOR will offer a wealth of information to prepare for the selling process.

Tips to help avoid anxiety

There are many things that can help alleviate stress and anxiety throughout the selling process. Firstly, being prepared is the best defense and can help the selling process run more smoothly. Start with organizing and packing up unnecessary personal items. Follow this up with a thorough cleaning. When a Highlands NC home for sale starts off in exceptional shape it is easier to keep in show-ready condition along the way.

Negotiation tips

Selling a Highlands NC home can be nerve-racking from the onset because a seller never knows when the first offer will come in, never mind how many offers will come in. Pricing a home fairly to start improves the odds of a home attracting buyers. It is important to realize that an offer is negotiable. Whether a seller wants to respond to the price, dates, or contingencies, every aspect of a contract can be negotiated. Likewise, it is important to realize that the first offer will not necessarily be the only offer. A knowledgeable REALTOR will help navigate this process.

Learn more about selling Highlands NC real estate

Contact me, Lynn Kimball, today to learn more about selling homes in Highlands NC. I welcome the opportunity to share a complimentary listing presentation with you while helping you determine a fair price for your home. Let my knowledge and experience serve as your guide to selling Highlands NC real estate.

Click here to read “5 Mistakes Home Sellers Make” from Realty Times.

Highlands NC Homes, Fall Chores On Horizon

September 14, 2021 by lynn

Highlands NC Homes, Fall Chores On Horizon

Lynn Kimball, your guide to Highlands NC real estate

Fall chores are on the horizon for Highlands NC homes. It is hard to believe that September is in full swing, a wonderful time of year here in our mountain community. This is a time when we are outside enjoying crisp mornings and warm days. It is also the time of year when we start planning for the change of seasons. There are many things involved with preparing for winter, most of which involve putting summer to bed. Taking care of a Highlands NC home is an important part of homeownership.

What are fall chores for a Highlands NC home?

Fall chores incorporate both the inside and outside of a home as well as the property itself. This includes preparing systems for winter, like the HVAC and irrigation systems for starters. Other chores will include clearing the gutters of debris, having the chimney inspected and/or swept, and yard chores like raking and aerating the lawn. It is also important to have the sprinkler system blown out. Additionally, checking the hot water system is always a good idea.

Avoid issues

Winter on the horizon means colder weather is coming. Taking care of certain chores prior to the first frost is important and can help avoid costly repairs. Freezing temperatures mean that water in exposed pipes can freeze. I turn, this can mean that pipes can burst. This is why it is so important to disconnect all hoses and turn off irrigation. Blowing out irrigation lines will ensure that irrigation lines do not burst as well. It is also a great idea to make sure that any exposed pipes, in a garage or in a basement or crawl space, are insulated to avoid bursting as well.

Learn more about Highlands NC homes

Click here to read “5 Home Maintenance Tips for Fall” from REALTOR Magazine.

Selling Highlands NC Real Estate, Keep Surfaces Clutter-Free

September 10, 2021 by lynn

Selling Highlands NC Real Estate, Keep Surfaces Clutter-Free

Lynn Kimball, Highlands NC real estate

Keep surfaces clutter-free when selling Highlands NC real estate. This is as true for shelves and walls as it is for counters. The neater and more organized everything is the more appealing a home is to potential buyers. Keeping a home clean should be a priority when selling. Furthermore, a Highlands NC home for sale should be ready for showings at all times. Ultimately, the more clutter-free a home is the easier this task will be.

Cleanliness is not easy for everyone

There is no doubt that keeping a home clean is easier for some than for others. As such, it can be easier for those missing the neat gene to pack some belongings up while preparing to list a Highlands NC home. Boxing up items that a seller can live without can automatically get rid of clutter. Furthermore, this also helps prepare for moving.

Focus on counters

Counters in bathrooms and the kitchen are a great place to focus. If you need items that are currently on the counters it can be a good idea to add shelving. Shelving can create space and work as a display area. Counters, especially in the kitchen, are coveted. The roomier a counter appears the more appeal they hold. Additionally, adding spice racks, wall-mounted knife holders, and rolling storage can be very helpful.

Learn more about selling Highlands NC real estate

Contact me, Lynn Kimball, today to learn more about selling real estate in Highlands NC. I welcome the opportunity to update you on the market while sharing a complimentary listing presentation at the same time. Let my knowledge and experience serve as your guide to selling Highlands NC real estate.

Click here to read “15 Clever Ways to Clear Off Your Countertops” from HGTV.