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Sapphire Valley Celebrates Winter With Unique Event

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Sapphire Valley Celebrates Winter With Unique Event

Sapphire Valley, NC

Lynn Kimball, your guide to Highlands, Cashiers and the Sapphire Valley

Sapphire Valley celebrates winter with a unique event. The annual Outhouse Race is a fun-filled unique experience for the entire family. After all, how many people can say they have watched and/or participated in an outhouse race? This is a time to celebrate the end of the ski season in a good old fashioned community gathering, One that draws residents and visitors alike from across the Highlands/Cashiers NC community.

What can you expect to see in an outhouse race? A spectacular race for starters. The vehicles in this race are homemade contraptions on skis being raced by those inspired to create an outhouse that will race down the slope quicker than the competition. Participants are dressed in crazy outfits and their vehicles are handmade outhouses on skis.

Are you wondering how you can enter the race? The rules are simple: register ahead of time and build an outhouse that is at least five feet tall. In addition, the outhouse must include a toilet seat, toilet paper, and be built on skis.  The more creative the better! The race takes place on February 17. There will be an afternoon parade followed by the race at 3 pm.  Learn more by clicking here.

Learn more about Sapphire Valley

Contact me, Lynn Kimball, today to learn more about Sapphire Valley real estate. I welcome the opportunity to update you on current market conditions while helping you get to know our part of the Southern Blue Ridge Mountains. Let my knowledge and experience serve as your guide to the Highlands and Cashiers area. I hope to see you at the Outhouse Race, Sapphire Valley’s unique celebration of the end to these season.

What Sellers Should Expect From a Professional Realtor®

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Highlands Newspaper
Investing at 4118 Feet
December 10, 2015

There is nothing more gratifying than having a happy client. The following are guidelines of what to look for when hiring a Realtor®:

• Listen carefully to seller’s motivation for selling…offering advice on the best way to serve their particular needs
• Provide information on local market conditions
• Provide closed sales and current competitive properties to find the optimal listing price
• Offer suggestions for improvements to help make the property more appealing
• Offer a Professional Guarantee stating that seller may cancel their listing should the promise of agent’s services not meet with the seller’s expectations
• Provide full color professional photos for MLS, flyers, advertisements and internet
• Make a skilled Virtual Tour of the home to be posted in MLS and on the internet
• Place a Property Information Book in the home for buyers and buyer’s agents to reference home features, survey, flyers, tax office info and other available pertinent information
• Hold a Broker Open House to introduce the home and get other broker opinions
• Provide the best marketing the internet has available, along with the best Berkshire Hathaway Home Services has in resources, advertising and international exposure
• Implement an advertising plan including featured listings and area information on their user friendly, professional broker websites with regular updates that has a webpage for each individual listing
• Implement a plan for printed local advertising with professional looking and easy to read ads
• Place property on multiple internet sites where buyers go to search for properties
• Firm’s website to be located near the top of the search engine page
• Contact the seller each time the property is shown with feedback from the showing agent
• Send regular emails showing how many times property has been viewed on the internet
• Send regular updates on market conditions and monthly marketing reports
• Listen carefully to the seller’s wants and needs, be cheerful and helpful
• Show how to make the listing and sale process easy, convenient and problem free
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Starting with a professional Realtor® will help make these things clearer and easier on the front end. An experienced Realtor® will always give you good direction regarding these matters.
Lynn Kimball has over 41 years of real estate experience, with over 30 years serving the Highlands Cashiers area. She has gained Emeritus Status with the National Association of Realtors and is currently serving as Vice President for the Highlands Cashiers Board of Realtors. Whether you are interested in searching properties or comprehensive information about our area, you are invited to visit her user friendly website at www.signatureproperties-nc.com. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Meadows Mountain Realty has two locations, at 41 Church Street in the Old Edwards Inn complex or visit Lynn at her 2334 Cashiers Road location across from Highlands Falls Country Club. Lynn Kimball may be reached at 828-421-8193 or by email at Lynn@MeadowsMtnRealty.com.

selling Highlands real estate

Contributed by
Lynn Kimball
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices
Meadows Mountain Realty

When it Comes to Selling, Little Things Add Up

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     When it comes to selling a home, it’s those little things that add up. Whether you are talking chipped paint on a window sill, dirty windows, a torn screen, or a weed poking through on the front walkway, individually these things may not be a big deal, but together these small things add up to making a bad first impression. When making the decision to sell a home you are making the decision to prepare your home. A home is more likely to sell faster and at a better price after taking care of the small stuff.
Prior to hosting your first showings, start by walking around your home and view it with as clear a vision as possible. Take in what looks great and pick apart the nitty gritty details. A clean and well-organized home that appears well taken care of is what buyers will be attracted to. Taking the time to prepare your home for potential buyers will pay off in the end.
Selling a home involves cleaning, inside and out. There are professionals in our area who specialize in this. Doing the cleaning yourself can be tedious, but it is an inexpensive way to instantly upgrade the look of your home.
The most important place to start when preparing the inside of your home is the front entry. This is your home’s calling card…the introduction to what a buyer will experience when he walks through your home. Walls, floors, and objects should be rubbed and dusted. If walls need a fresh coat of paint this will be a step you will not regret. Likewise a new runner or small area rug could add a pop and make a statement.
From your entryway continue on to the rest of your home. Pack away clutter, make sure drawers and closet shelves are organized and clutter-free. The more you can make your home shine the easier it will show. Cleaning is an important tool in your marketing kit.
Curb appeal gives a potential buyer the desired invitation to want to come inside. Yard clean-up, landscaping, trimmed bushes, etc are a great start. On the home’s exterior, pressure washing and touch-up paint make a good first impression. Even subliminally, a clean and fresh exterior avoids a potential buyer from concentrating on negatives before they walk in the door. An exterior lacking maintenance weighs on a buyer with concerns of all the things they will have to do if they purchase the home….thus it affects their offering price.
Last but not least, after getting everything in order, it is a good idea to have a Home Inspection. There are usually small things that can easily be corrected. You can be assured that a buyer will have an inspection. Your own inspection will avoid unnecessary surprises for you as well as the buyer. Most of us do not examine what goes on under a house, especially moisture issues which are common to our area. We also get used to things like those electrical outlets that don’t work and a small crack or foggy window caused by a leak in the seal. The least their inspector finds will give a buyer comfort in closing on the property. Additionally, when a buyer hires an Appraiser, the Appraiser will take the condition and general “feel” of the home into consideration, making for a higher appraised value.
Starting with a professional Realtor® will help make these things clearer and easier on the front end. An experienced Realtor® will always give you good direction regarding these matters.
Lynn Kimball has over 41 years of real estate experience, with 30 years serving the Highlands Cashiers area. She has gained Emeritus Status with the National Association of Realtors and is currently serving as Vice President for the Highlands Cashiers Board of Realtors. Whether you are interested in searching properties or comprehensive information about our area, you are invited to visit her user friendly website at www.signatureproperties-nc.com. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Meadows Mountain Realty has two locations, at 41 Church Street in the Old Edwards Inn complex or visit Lynn at her 2334 Cashiers Road location across from Highlands Falls Country Club. Lynn Kimball may be reached at 828-421-8193 or by email at Lynn@MeadowsMtnRealty.com
Lynn head

Contributed by

Lynn Kimball

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices

Meadows Mountain Realty

Focus On Outdoor Spaces and Surroundings

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Highlands Newspaper
Investing at 4118 Feet
May 14, 2015

lynn laurel

 

 

 

 

 

Contributed by Lynn Kimball
Meadows Mountain Realty

From walls of windows to spacious decks, and expansive patios to lush gardens, the focus of many homes capitalizes on the fabulous outdoor lifestyle our area offers. There are many trends that are being seen around the nation that are prevalent right here.

Covered decks that offer comfortable outdoor living spaces, including seating that could fit just as well inside plus outdoor fireplaces are common in luxury homes in Highlands. Likewise the outdoor kitchen has made its mark, expanding outdoor entertaining to capitalize on the fresh mountain air and views. Beautifully landscaped gardens also add value to homes in our area and our lifestyle, enhancing the natural beauty surrounding us.

Whether you are planning to sell your home or simply want to enhance its value, it is important to remember what draws people to our area in the first place. If your home boasts great views, a beautiful lawn or a wonderful spot to enjoy the sunshine and fresh air, take the time to make improvements to enhance your surroundings.

Making landscaping improvements around your home adds to your home’s curb appeal, and curb appeal is what makes your home attractive to potential buyers. Spring has arrived and now is a great time to weed your flower beds, prune your trees and shrubs, and plan what you want to plant for the growing season. We live in a spectacular area, ripe with natural flora and fauna and a place where flowers flourish. There is no time like the present to make improvements to your property.

Spring is the time of year when many second home buyers are thinking about summer and where they like to spend their time. As we approach the busiest time of year for real estate in Highlands, all signs are pointing to a busy summer. The vacation home market is on a rebound, great news for our area. More and more people are feeling financial confidence which is translating into spending more money and making real estate investments. Vacation home markets around the nation are showing signs of strength and the Highlands area is no different.

Lynn Kimball has over 41 years of real estate experience, with 30 years serving the Highlands area. She has gained Emeritus Status with the National Association of Realtors and is currently serving as Vice President for the Highlands Cashiers Board of Realtors. Whether you are interested in searching properties or comprehensive information about our area, you are invited to visit her user friendly website at www.signatureproperties-nc.com. Meadows Mountain Realty has two locations, at 41 Church Street in the Old Edwards Inn complex or visit Lynn at her 2334 Cashiers Road location across from Highlands Falls Country Club. Lynn Kimball may be reached at 828-421-8193 or by email at Lynn@MeadowsMtnRealty.com.

THINKING ABOUT MAKING A CHANGE?

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Highlands Newspaper

Lynn Kimball Realtor

Lynn Kimball Broker

Lynn Kimball, Broker

Investing at 4118 Feet
May 23, 2013
Contributed by Lynn Kimball
Meadows Mountain Realty

At certain times in our lives, most of us will make major lifestyle changes. Changes require much consideration, especially in the changing world of real estate. These financial decisions are usually the largest we make during our lifetime.

When a change of location is involved or a substantial investment opportunity is on the horizon or if you’ve been waiting for prices to bottom out before buying that second home…here is some food for thought.

There has been a significant increase in Highlands’ sales activity over the winter and spring months this year…..even ahead of our banner years in the past. We are seeing multiple offers on properties again, with sale prices averaging out to 90% of the list prices. This creates an atmosphere for the best time to sell we have seen in years, particularly if you plan to purchase another property. Prices have stabilized with the reduction in inventory. As more inventory is depleted, we will see an increase in prices. The best time to buy is while prices are still at their lowest and before prices are on the rise.

If you own investment property, which may include commercial, vacant land or qualifying rental property, this may be the time consider making a move. There may be another property that has more advantages for income, a more suitable location or a better value today for potential appreciation in the future. If you sell now, then purchase another qualifying property, an additional advantage could be in a 1031 Tax Deferred Exchange. (only with advice from your qualified tax professional)

Another important factor to remember is that interest rates are still lower than we’ve seen in generations. A thirty year fixed rate mortgage can be obtained as low as 3.5%.

Finding the right Realtor® is the key to your success. After taking the time to find someone you can trust…who is an experienced professional and knows the Highlands market, you can settle back and allow them to do what they do best…provide the service and expertise you need in buying or selling a property.

If you want a good overall introduction of our area and to search available properties, you are invited to visit my user friendly website at www.signatureproperties-nc.com and our company site at www.MeadowsMtnRealty.com. Meadows Mountain Realty has two locations, at 41 Church Street in the Old Edwards Inn complex and at 2334 Cashiers Road across from Highlands Falls Country Club. Lynn Kimball can be reached at 828-421-8193 or by email at Lynn@MeadowsMtnRealty.com.

Why Retire to Highlands NC?

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Highlands NC

Lynn Kimball, Highlands NC real estate

Have you been asking yourself the question why retire to Highlands NC?  The simple answer would be that our area focuses on an active lifestyle, both physically and mentally.  In addition there are many opportunities to get involved in the Highlands community which adds to the overall quality of life.

There is no doubt that Highlands North Carolina offers a stunning backdrop. The Southern Blue Ridge Mountains represent one of the most beautiful areas of our region.  The beauty outdoors is echoed with every adventure you choose, from fly fishing to bird watching and hiking to mountain biking and everything in between.

In addition to the great outdoors there are a variety of educational and cultural opportunities throughout the year.  From the performing arts and the visual arts to learning about nature or taking a computer class there are ways to expand your mind.

Contact me, Lynn Kimball, today to learn more about retiring to Highlands NC.  Staying active and enjoying life is important to many.  I can get you started on your Highlands real estate search and help you get to know our area like a local.

Testamonial

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I am so happy having made the decision to turn over the sale of our family’s mountain home of 37 years to Lynn. In an otherwise dismal vacation real estate market and the in the middle of Winter, she and her team were able to secure a buyer in 17 days on the market, at almost asking price. Not only that, but we had a second backup contract 2 days later as well! Now granted, it was a very desirable location, and these results may not be typical, but nevertheless I was impressed, as the house needed major repairs and renovation as well.

I liked the fact that Lynn did her homework and provided me at our initial meeting both quantitative market analysis as well as qualitative listing expectations. Prior to agreeing to take the listing, she consulted with her associates to establish a realistic asking price. That took 2 weeks because of the Christmas/New Year’s holidays. Her valuation (i.e., right selling price) was validated by both the buyer’s offer and the ultimate lender’s appraisal. She was truly professional in not rushing into the listing – she wanted to make sure I was happy with the price and comfortable with her agency’s approach.

Once the listing was signed, she coordinated all of the tedious legwork obtaining an accurate property survey (which had never been done) and communicating with the City zoning department to navigate the lot building limitations (which might have been a big negative to a buyer) versus what was grandfathered because of the structure’s age.

Lynn (and her team) communicated at ever stage in the closing process (including an extension because of the lender’s delay).

I am very happy to recommend Lynn – she is truly outstanding! I have used many realtors over the years both buying and selling, and my experience with Lynn was by far the best.

Stanley Street

Washington, DC

Technology A Focus in Highlands NC Schools

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Highlands NC

Lynn Kimball, Highlands NC real estate & community information

Technology is a focus in Highlands NC schools.  Some students in the high school have been given iPads as a replacement for text books and the experiment has been well-received.  In a small school system that is considered rural the importance of modernizing may be felt more than in other areas.  Technology is an important part of any school today.

Education plays a role in Highlands real estate values as our area becomes more attractive to those considering relocation if there is quality education available.  The inclusion of technology in the classroom is vital in preparing our youth for higher education and the ability to compete with other nations.

Contact me, Lynn Kimball, today to learn more about education in Highlands NC.  My goal is to educate my clients on all aspects of living in the Highlands area.  Start your home search here and get to know the Highlands Plateau at the same time.

Click here to read “Highlands students and teachers give iPads a thumbs up” from The Highlander.

OFFERS TO PURCHASE OR CONTRACTS?

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Lynn Kimball

 

 

Contributed by Lynn Kimball

Meadows Mountain Realty

Highlands Newspaper

November 1, 2012

 

We’ve had a great deal more activity this year with prospective buyers and Offers to Purchase.  However, buyers and sellers are not coming together in many cases…thus not ending in sales Contracts.

What are the issues creating this scenario?  Most real estate professionals agree that we are at the bottom of our market.  I had a local man recently tell me that he had to buy some local real estate because they are giving it away!  However, buyers and sellers often do not agree with the “bottom price”.  Buyers in this economy are expecting to make an exceptional deal.  Sellers in many cases have drastically reduced their prices downward over a period of time from previous market conditions.  They may be already at the bottom of the market.

Here are examples of what we are experiencing:

A seller may have started listing their property at a price of $600,000 and by now have reduced their price to $395,000.  The buyer makes an offer at $300,000.  The seller feels like they are already at their bottom BEFORE they received the Offer….when in fact $395,000 could be an excellent value.

The other side of the coin is that a seller may have an elevated opinion of their property based on previous years.  In this case it is difficult to get agents and/or clients to even look at the property.  A buyer decides it is probably a nice property…although pricey, but feels the seller will come down to today’s market value.  These cases rarely come together and conclude in a sale.

I believe this is a phase.  Activity is an improvement, but bringing together buyers and sellers is much better.  In time, I believe it will even out.  The best new is we are experiencing an upswing in real estate sales….which is the backbone of our economy in Highlands.

I highly recommend finding a professional Realtor whom you can trust to guide you in the best direction.

If you want a good overall introduction of our area and to search available properties, you are invited to visit my user friendly website at www.signatureproperties-nc.com.  Meadows Mountain Realty has two locations, one is downtown at 41 Church Street in the Old Edwards Inn complex and the other is at 2334 Cashiers Road across from Highlands Falls Country Club.  Lynn Kimball may be reached at 828-421-8193 or by email at Lynn@MeadowsMtnRealty.com

Considerations for Retirement and Second Home Buyers

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Highlands Newspaper

September 13, 2012

Contributed by:  Lynn Kimball

Meadows Mountain Realty

Considerations for Retirement and Second Home Buyers

     Highlands has long been known as haven for second home residents as an escape from the summer heat of the south and a place to enjoy these beautiful mountains and our quaint mountain town.  Our community has been blessed with many amenities that we could only have because of the charitable contributions of many of these summer residents.

When I moved here in 1985, the majority of second homes were conservatively priced and modestly appointed and were selling like hotcakes.  For many years it appeared that there was no end to high appreciation rates.  Many second home buyers started with small condos, then moved on to medium priced homes and ultimately moved up to high-end, luxury homes which became extremely popular starting in the late 90’s.  Homes priced over $1,000,000 couldn’t be built fast enough for the demand.

We all know that times have changed since the recession started in 2008.  It seems that no one, including the wealthy, has been unscathed by the economy since. The inventory of available homes in all price ranges has increased magnanimously.  Since the beginning of this year, we have seen many more people looking at properties and have also seen more sales.  Real estate is stabilizing and those who have been waiting to purchase do not want to wait until prices come up.  There will always be those who are comfortable with purchasing high end homes, but many are going back to more conservative choices.  Stepping stones with prices as low as they are today, will serve as a way to get into a second home in Highlands and allow you to get your foot in the door.  Also, it makes sense to those more conservative buyers to purchase something today that will be easiest to sell later in case things change in their futures.

As a potential second home or pre-retirement buyer today, these are some questions you may want to ask yourself:

Do I need to look at purchasing a high-end home now that I will enjoy for years to come?  Or would it be better to start with something smaller and less expensive that I may rent out or enjoy until the time for retirement comes nearer?  Is it best to pay cash or obtain financing at rates lower than we have seen in generations?  Qualified second home buyers can borrow at around 3 ½% with as little as a 10% down payment.  There are also many sellers willing to hold owner financing at these low rates.  Could your 401K, IRA or other retirement holdings be better served by investing in Highlands for future retirement?

One thing’s for sure, the reason people choose Highlands for a second home remains the same in any economy.  There is truly no place like Highlands.

If you want a good overall introduction of our area and to search available properties, you are invited to visit my user friendly website at www.signatureproperties-nc.com.  Meadows Mountain Realty has two locations, one on Church Street in the Old Edwards Inn complex and the other is on the Cashiers Road across from Highlands Falls Country Club.  Lynn Kimball can be reached at 828-526-4101 or by email at Lynn@MeadowsMtnRealty.com.