Mountain Heritage

Garage Sale MAggie Valley Sat October 22, 2011 @ 8am

2011-10-20T02:55:00.000-04:00

Info on 6 family garage sale... http://www.facebook.com/pages/Mountain-Heritage/63567411989?sk=photos#!/event.php?eid=100132393433152
Huge yard sale on Hwy 19 across from Realty World.
photos of some of the STUFF - http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10150324577641990.348156.63567411989&type=3

Chinese Symbol for CRISIS=Danger + Opportunity

2011-08-23T22:00:00.000-04:00

(I like this agents perspective:)Real Estate Crisis has taken a toll on many, but not everyone. Someone is always asking me about the state of the real estate market, with a bad perception already in their head. The Chinese symbol for Crisis is Danger and Opportunity. In anything, while one is in pain there is always someone with something to gain.

There are two lessons to learn:

1.1. Don't be a victim to anyone. Read and ask questions. Don't be afraid to say no or walk away, even from a "GREAT DEAL"

2. Don't complain and hate from the sideline when everyone is in the pool having fun, put on your swim wear and jump in. Real Estate has been around forever and is not going anywhere, find a (legal and ethical) way to prosper nicely off it also.

Information on Property Values in Haywood County

2011-04-06T17:53:00.000-04:00

Tax Re-evaluations have recently been mailed to all residents in Haywood County North Carolina. This has caused a good bit of discussion amoung property owners as they compare the new values against the older values.

if you would like to see what other properties have sold for in recent years - the Haywood Tax Map has alot of useful information. This site is complicated to use if you are not familiar with it and the local Smokey Mountain News has created a useful article to help navigate the site to get the most useful info from it.
http://www.smokymountainnews.com/

Call me if you have any questions about property values. I am never too busy for your referrals.

Seed Saving of Heirloom Varieties in your garden

2011-03-27T02:55:00.003-04:00

It is very rewarding to save seeds from your own garden from year to year. It can also save money. Some seeds are 'easier' to grow and save, than others. Check out this link for more info on seed saving of heirloom vegetables and flowers. The company Sow True Seed - is local in Asheville! I was able to buy everything I needed from them this year.

This summer go to our local Waynesville Farmers tailgate market when you have the opportunity...

Bold Creek with Waterfalls and bridge to home - 4 bedroom 3 bath

2011-03-16T12:12:00.001-04:00

MLS 482895

Check out the creek on this house! Paved state road access in wooded mountain neighborhood.

"Art After Dark" in WAynesville

2010-10-02T13:30:00.001-04:00

On the First Friday of the Month through December 3rd (for Christmas Shopping)...
Stroll the Historic Streets of Waynesville - sip on wine and feast on the wide array of local and hand made arts...
Stop in for dinner or dessert and enjoy the sounds of Live music along Main Street.

Big Ideas for Small Spaces

2010-09-04T10:52:00.004-04:00

With a 3 day Holiday many of us have time for a home ikmprovement project. Check out the ideas below:

Homeowners: Big Ideas for Small Spaces
By Jean Patteson
RISMEDIA, August 2, 2010—(MCT)—As we exit the era of the McMansion and begin to embrace the concept of the “big-enough” home, we need to rethink some of our interior-design ideas.

Whether your home is a house, condo or apartment, if you’re making do with reduced square-footage, you’re likely wondering how to make boxy rooms look bigger and function effectively.

A new design guide on HGTV showcases a variety of small spaces, showing how designers use color, furniture placement, special installations and other devices to create the illusion of spaciousness. In the process, they explode a number of long-standing decorating truisms. Among them: Avoid bold patterns, large furniture and knick-knacks; embrace mirrors and white walls.

Orlando, Fla., interior designer Debbie Sheaf agreed that white walls are not always the answer to visually expanding small rooms. “Select a contrasting color such as topaz or coral, that will cast a glow while keeping cabinets and ceiling white to reflect light,” she advises.

The HGTV experts offer a different approach to using color to make a room appear larger: Paint walls and ceiling the same favorite shade so the eye doesn’t stop at the ceiling line.

Letting in as much natural light as possible makes rooms seem airier, says Sheaf. “Skylights capture light and make a room appear larger. Glass blocks can take the place of a window, providing privacy without blocking light.”

And when designing window treatments, “The less you cover, the more light will flood in and the larger your small space will seem,” she says. “Choose a sheer fabric, or blinds or shades that expose the entire window when drawn up or aside.”

Mirrors, which reflect light, can make a small room seem bigger. But what if you don’t want to turn a room into a hall of mirrors?

Turn it into a mini-art gallery instead, surrounding yourself with paintings you love, suggests HGTV consultant Roderick Shade.

Banning knick-knacks from a small room will make it appear more spacious—but also more sterile and less homey. Instead, edit your collectibles carefully and display them in just one or two places, not scattered throughout the whole room, advise the HGTV experts. A group of similar objects, or different objects of the same color, creates a “visual destination” in a room and avoids a sense of stifling clutter.

Conventional wisdom suggests that bold, busy patterns cramp the style of a small space. On the other hand, “Big bold prints on the walls and lots of pattern in a small space really distract you from the size of the area,” says HGTV consultant April Sheldon.

The key to making this work is to vary the scale of the patterns, she says. If the rug has a large-scale pattern, for example, contrast that with wallpaper or draperies in a petite print.

Finally, while small furniture takes up less space and makes a room feel more open, it may not be as comfortable as larger pieces. The trade-off: Make do with fewer large pieces.

And do consider built-ins, says Sheaf. Murphy beds, bookshelves, window seats and shallow cabinets save space while providing storage and adding design interest.

Tips to make small rooms look bigger
-Determine your priorities, making rooms fit your needs and lifestyle. If a desk is more important than a dining table, for example, eat at the kitchen counter or coffee table.
-Furniture designed using clear materials such as Lucite and glass give the impression of openness while delivering function.
-Lamps placed at different heights brighten small rooms and make them seem larger.
-Round tables, rugs and pillows in addition to chairs and sofas with curves help small rooms feel less boxy.
-Floating shelves instead of cabinets add storage but look airy and chic.

(c) 2010, The Orlando Sentinel (Fla.).

Distributed by McClatchy-Tribune Information Services.

Four years, five continents, 100 musicians, One Love—Playing for Change.

2010-01-09T22:35:00.001-05:00

No more war...

One Love | Playing For Change | Song Around the World

2010-01-09T22:24:00.001-05:00

What a concept!!!

Realty World Dodge Ball team takes 3rd place

2009-10-30T06:24:00.004-04:00

I am proud to announce that the Realty World Heritage Professional Dodge ball Team placed 3rd out of 16 in Thursdays tournament. After a first round loss, the team came roaring back and won 5 straight to win the "Losers" bracket. At the end of the night the team finished in 3rd place. The only casualty was Pat, who strained a hamstring while attempting to avoid a fastball, but he did great for an old guy.

The night was a bunch of fun for all and the team represented Realty World better than our wildest imagination (it was a blast!)

Team Members:

Pat Bennett (Captain)
Tom Mallette
Kenny Wells (Realty World Lawn Guy)
Dustin Wells (Realty World Lawn Guy Apprentice)
Adam (Carolina Vacations Maintenance)
Adam's Girlfriend (it is late and I have forgotten her name)

Cheer Squad:

Christine Mallette (Cheer leader)
Breyson Mallette
Kayden Mallette
Lynda Bennett (Lead Strategist)

If you see any of the "dream team" walking around give them a pat on the back for a job well done! (and give Pat a shoulder to lean on until he can walk again)

I cannot believe you read all this! Tom

"You can't talk about reform without talking about health" Ada Fisher

2009-08-26T22:17:00.001-04:00

Dr. Ada M. Fisher has a clear and helpful approach.

Mountain Heritage on Face Book

2009-07-29T07:44:00.002-04:00

Mountain Heritage on Facebook

3/50 Plan to Save Local Businesses is Picking Up Steam

2009-07-09T14:13:00.004-04:00

The Poster and the Concept... Click HERE http://www.the350project.net/home.html

Local Efforts to Save Main Street Bring In Traffic
Campaigns Give Neighborhood Stores Short-Term Boost, but Long-Term Effects on Businesses Remain Unclear...
By RAYMUND FLANDEZ
Ginger MacCutcheon's tiny pet supply shop is no Petco or PetSmart, but lately she has managed to turn that to her advantage.

After her store, Ginger Pet House, came close to folding this past winter when sales slipped 35%, Ms. MacCutcheon got involved with the 3/50 project, a movement backed by small enterprises that encourages shoppers to pick three independently owned businesses and spend $50 a month at them. She downloaded ready-made fliers and brochures from the project's Web site advertising its "buy local" mission.

Ms. MacCutcheon said results for the four-year-old Independence, Ohio, store were dramatic: Foot traffic increased by as much as 30 new customers a week on top of the usual trickle. By mid-June, sales for the month had topped $3,000, more than double that of some previous months. "I'm so excited because I thought I was going to go out of business," said Ms. MacCutcheon, 51 years old. "I don't think that's going to happen now."

The economic downturn has prompted many consumers and neighborhood groups to actively support small businesses in their local communities, as residents pitch in to try to avoid boarded-up shops on Main Street. Still, it remains unclear whether buy-local campaigns provide just a short-term boost or a lasting impact on revenues.

Dan Collins, owner of high-end pen store Gilbertson Clybourn Inc. in Chicago, sold only about two dozen Montblanc pens this past holiday season, as opposed to previous seasons' 200 to 400 average of the $350-plus pens.
So he put up a hand-written sign in the store's window: "Dear Customers, I understand why you're not coming in these days. This is a great time to buy a fine pen. All pens are drastically reduced. Sincerely, Dan."

After the local paper wrote a story about the sign, Mr. Collins saw 20 to 30 people drop by daily. "I don't know if they felt bad or sorry, but they actually came to my rescue," he said.
Eric Fridman, an assistant dean at Northwestern University's Kellogg School of Management in Evanston, Ill., picked up a $300 Visconti Van Gogh, discounted at 25% off. "I was feeling a little bit guilty in not supporting my local merchant," Mr. Fridman said.

But Mr. Collins said the bump in sales was temporary. Now, he only sees about one or two people dropping by, with many of them just wanting a refill. "That only lasted so long," he said.

A survey released in January by the Institute for Local Self-Reliance, a Minneapolis nonprofit research group, found that community efforts can often at least protect independent companies from the worst of the recession. Independent retailers in cities with buy-local campaigns saw holiday sales drop 3.2% from the previous year, compared with 5.6% in cities without them. There are about 100 such campaigns across the country, the group estimates.

Douglas Bachtel, a demographer at the University of Georgia in Athens, Ga., said buy-local campaigns can succeed when customers understand that "dollars stay home" when they support independent companies in their communities.

"Hopefully, it's not just a fad but will continue to pick up," said Mr. Bachtel, also a professor of housing and consumer economics. "Educating a local population on the importance of buying locally is a long-learning process."

Groups such as the American Independent Business Alliance in Bozeman, Mont., help communities organize buy-local campaigns. The key, said co-founder Jeff Milchen, is to convince consumers "that choosing a local independent business is often the best overall value."
The 3/50 Project, created by Cinda Baxter of Minneapolis in March, has taken the buy-local creed across the country from Lake Havasu City, Ariz. to Hoboken, N.J. "It's really an investment program," Ms. Baxter said. Customers are investing their dollars in locally-owned businesses, which, in turn, improve their customer service. "It's making a difference," she said.
In Skippack, Pa., a group of 19 independent businesses worked together to spread word of the campaign. Each put in $10 to print out about 2,000 postcards that advertised to local customers that if they spent $150 total at any of the participating businesses, they'd get 10% off meals in local restaurants. More than 50 people have taken up the offer, handing in their postcards with stapled receipts to get a discounted dinner.

Customer Susan Steele, an e-marketing manager at Siemens Corp., said she now thinks first about patronizing local businesses, even though shopping online or at a nearby mall's chain stores is more convenient.

This week, she bought a pair of shorts at a local women's clothing boutique. "It takes a little bit more time, but it's worth it," she said.

For Ms. McCutcheon, the buy-local campaign has helped keep her shop afloat. For now. "This gives you the hope to keep fighting," she said.
Write to By Raymund Flandez at raymund.flandez@wsj.com
copy Wall Street Journal http://online.wsj.com/article/SB124631541083270621.html

Red, White and Boom in Maggie Valley, NC (69 Degrees right Now)

2009-07-04T12:14:00.005-04:00

Are you looking for a cool place to spend the 4th of July - drive to Maggie Valley for 69 degree weather and a Free Independence Day Celebration... Red, White And Boom!

Details:2-10pm
The festival Grounds in Maggie Valley, NC... bring chairs and a blanket. Lots of good music and food will be available... couldn't find a cooler place to be than the Mountains of North CArolina!

Lynda Bennett, a Peak Experience since 1986
Realty World Heritage
Maggie Valley, NC
www.MountianHeritage.com

Post and Beam Home for sale Maggie Valley NC

2009-06-01T23:06:00.005-04:00

www.mountainheritage.com/listings/l0019.html

Maggie Valley NC, NC 28751`
(828) 926-5200 ext 112

Lynda Bennett

Comfortable Classic Post and Beam
Classic mountain home with beamed ceilings... stone fireplace (woodstoves) in LR and DR and bedroom upstairs... lots of Glass for the VIEWS in all major rooms... Post and Beam style construction... complete privacy... Mountain views over the Maggie Golf course... Many upgrades... solid surfaces... brick floors... romantic master bedroom... lots of details... open and covered decks... Garage & work shop in basement PLUS large detached pole barn shop... Great style... For those that are looking for a special home in a gated golf community... complete info on the web www.mountainheritage.com/listings/l0019.html

Contact: Lynda Bennett, Realtor Maggie Valley and Waynesville

Ghost Town Open for new 2009 Season, Maggie Valley NC

2009-05-25T02:02:00.002-04:00

Everyone in the Maggie Valley is pleased to see Ghost Town open its doors Friday for the New Season. For more information follow this link to the Mountaineer News Article: http://www.themountaineer.com/newsite/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=1401:ghost-town-opens-friday&catid=25:the-project&Itemid=27

Lynda Bennett, realtor
www.MountainHeritage.com
Maggie Valley and Waynesville, NC

Timberframe home in Maggie Valley NC - Home for sale

2009-05-18T00:34:00.005-04:00

Now Under Contract

Cool Elevations and Top Quality amenities in an affordable price range.

http://www.mountainheritage.com/listings/l0018.html Click HERE: For complete information on this Timberframe Home in Maggie Valley above the Maggie Club.

Post and Beam... sophisticated quality of construction. Outstanding workmanship... delightful views... interesting interior spaces... multiple outdoor living areas... cozy stone fireplace in open ceiling room with loft overlooking... timberframe beams and mortised joints apparent throughout... Tasteful decor... very livable floor plan... Cool altitude in gated community above golf course... lots of trees... mountain driveway... Furnishings available... mountain views of Maggie Valley.

Post and Beam construction... Heat Pump... stone fireplace... covered porches and open decks... Hot tub on the covered porch with views... Loft overlooks the fireplace

Your Peak Experience in real estate since 1986

Lynda Bennett

Maggie Valley and Waynesville NC Realtor

MountainHeritage.com

2009-05-09T10:54:00.001-04:00

Attended the 'Opening Night' of Star Trek, in DP (digital Picture). Wow... was it fun! It is a must do. So new... yet so many good memories - the story line gets you in the first 5 minutes.

Affordable home for sale near Maggie Valley NC... with Mountain Views and Bold Stream on border

2009-05-04T00:06:00.005-04:00

http://www.mountainheritage.com/listings/l0003.html Click Here for the link to the web page for this house with complete info and PhotoGallery.

Life is pleasant on the large front porch of this mountain home. Listening to rushing creek and watching the clouds drift in front of the Maggie Valley Mountain views... Inside the Large Living room features the wood burning fireplace... located not tool high up just off Black Camp Gap.

Contact: Lynda Bennett for a showing

Mountain Heritage, a Peak Experience since 1986

Maggie Valley Condo for sale - Like New... Golf and Mountain Views

2009-05-03T22:57:00.006-04:00

http://www.mountainheritage.com/listings/l0002.html .. Click Here - Web Page for this listing with photo gallery and complete info about the condo.

Located close to the clubhouse for easy tee times and walk to dinner convenience... enjoy the club life style. Bright cheerful home with high ceilings... open great room... split bedroom plan.... Breakfast bar... gas fireplace... covered porch for al fresco dining... elevator... Garage may be available (extra)... The climate in Maggie Valley can not be beat year round. Come relax and enjoy.

Contact: Lynda Bennett, Realty World Heritage for showing or additional info

For Vacation Rental info: 828-926-1616 The Maggie Valley Club

The Amenities in the "Barn" are the style you would expect in a much more expensive home in Waynesville

2009-05-03T17:58:00.008-04:00

http://www.vrbo.com/199249 Rental info available
http://www.mountainheritage.com/listings/l0015.html Web Page for the "Barn"
Scoll down for more info....

6 Deer Run
Bethel, NC 28786
(828) 926-5200
Click here for price
Stunning Upscale Barn near Waynesville
Upscale as much as imaginable... high design features. This quaint, quality cottage affords a country ambiance but is it France or Italy? Designed as a get away but with all the comforts of home. .. Viking 6 burner stove... French farmhouse sink... Italian patio... claw foot tub... post and beam construction... with open loft bedroom, great yard, open living,furnishings available. Hear the river from the porch. Lake Logan community. Guest bedroom or office. Click Here for complete Information.
Click on this Link for Photo Gallery: http://www.flickr.com/photos/mountainheritage2/sets/72157617535432085/

Contact: Lynda Bennett

for more info and showing

http://www.mountainheritage.com/

Founding Fathers on the Public Debt

2009-05-02T11:14:00.002-04:00

Click on this Podcast to hear what our Founding Fathers Said about Public Debt - BTW was George Washington Republican or Democrat??? http://ping.fm/IfmZ1

2009-04-29T00:33:00.001-04:00

It is grand to be back in Carolina again. Enjoyed the visit with Mom on her birthday.

Contemporary Victorian - Top Quality construction near Waynesville - Home for Sale

2009-04-26T02:07:00.008-04:00

http://www.mountainheritage.com/listings/l0001.html Click Here for Complete info and virtual tour, videos, fliers, photo gallery... etc!

http://www.weblisters.net/Flyers/WebFlyer.cfm?ListingID=5846&ID=129 Click Here for web Flier

General:
• 1.6 Acres of privacy
• 2300 Square Feet Heated
• Built 1998
• 3 Bedrooms/ 2 ½ Baths
• Two story Contemporary Victorian
• Private Well
• Dual Heat Pump, Zoned
• Septic
• Double car garage main
• Composition Shingle Roof
• Paved Street
• Maintenance Agreement $180 per year.

Exterior:
• Fiber Cement Siding
• Deck, screened in porch and Covered Porch with concrete floors
• Insulated Windows
• Mountain Views
• Paved access…year round

Interior:
• Great Room has fireplace…bank of windows for the Views
• Great design and floor plan
• Master on Main with
Whirlpool tub, Access to screen porch
• Study: vaulted ceiling in den…with fireplace
• Open Floor Plan
• Open Dining sun porch
• Pull-down attic stairs
• Hardwood and tile floors
• Gas Water Heater
• Laundry – off kitchen

Kitchen
• Eat-in with Breakfast Bar
• Glassed in Breakfast nook
• Oven/Range
• Dishwasher
• Microwave
• Refrigerator
• Solid Surface counters

353 Ridgeview Lane
Bethel, NC 28716
(828) 926-5200
Click here for price

Contemporary Victorian in picturesque View Setting
-Attractive contemporary open spacious Victorian style home... Mountain VIEWS... private yard & garden... paved access year round... 9' ceilings... gleaming wood and tile floors... Many floor length windows & several bays... all the extras... concrete porches... dual Heat Pump... gorgeous setting - you will be impressed... Vaulted ceiling & Fireplace in Den/Office... Plus, Great room has Fire Place, bank of windows, open to Dining sun Porch... Great Curb Appeal... Upgraded Kitchen - solid counter tops, eat-in dining bay... Master on Main with jet tub... Do Not miss the Virtual Tour...

MORE...

Foreclosure in Waynesville North Carolina on New Home

2009-04-25T00:19:00.001-04:00

In these interesting times, we find opportunities to buy quality properties for less.
http://www.mountainheritage.com/listings/l0013.html Click Here for complete information!

This may be one of those opportunities. This new home is on the market as a foreclosure property. The home has never been lived in and it is in one of the premier neighborhoods in Waynesville, NC.

So if this new construction is of interest to you please let me know. Be sure to notice the gorgeous VIEWS, the large windows in the great room with a 2-story fireplace, and big bedrooms. The full basement is unfinished at this time. The two car garages are on the main level, which makes for easy access.

Give a call or an email for additional info or a showing!

Top Quality Barna Log $875,000 - real estate in mountains of North Carolina - near Maggie Valley NC

2009-04-23T18:23:00.000-04:00

A picture is worth a thousand words ; so watch the virtual tour below. $875,000

Click on this photo to watch the Virtual Tour!!

Click on this link http://www.mountainheritage.com/listings/l0006.htmlfor complete photos and information about this Log Home near Waynesville.

4 Suites
Outstanding Views of the mountains
Gracious Kitchen for entertaining (with Butlers Pantry)
Huge workshop in basement
Master on Main
Interesting Archetectural features and massive Log accents

Welcome
This sophisticated rustic Log Home shows a tasteful use of natural materials combined with refined wood, polished granite and delightful fixtures.

The Logs
You will notice the beautiful 12”, 14”, and 16” round accent logs are hand peeled and are used as accents around the house.
9” round Barna Logs are used in the construction.

The View
The views wrap around the home on all sides. The house orients to the most dramatic sightings with a 270° degree long range view, but the remainder of the 360° degree view is pastoral and mountainous.

The Setting
This small neighborhood, The Glens of Ironduff, provides easy year round access with paved streets and year round neighbors as well. The knoll top setting shows off the house to its’ best advantage. The wide open views surround the house. There is small but charming creek on the border of the property in a peaceful wooded ravine of big oaks.

The 2.419 acres affords privacy as well as views. The house overlooks a neighbor but no houses feel like they overlook this home. There are neighbors but not right on top of each other.

In General
The quality of construction is evident in all areas of the home. The Barna Logs are upgraded to 9 inch round logs. The thermal pane windows on the main level are sliders that can be opened up like a screen room. There is a Mission theme that runs through out; that seems to blend with the logs without being too fussy. Solid wood beams and hand peeled accent posts offer support in some of the most visible areas of the home. The foyer makes a grand statement and is reminiscent of an indoor forest. The natural tone of the massive log trees adds a unique quality through out.

Approximately 5600 square feet heated
2005 completion, nearly new
4 Bedrooms and 4½ Baths plus a second half bath in the workshop, and a Media room upstairs
Workshop with all the extras in Basement
2 car Garage with storage and utility
Dream Laundry with craft space, and double sink
Two propane furnaces
Electric Air-conditioning
Two 50 gallon electric water heaters,

also an On - Demand propane water heater for Master suite
Hard wired generator, with separate panel box
Thermal pane windows
Wood, tile and carpet floors

The Grand Room
The first impression is ‘Wow’.
The open Foyer leads through the huge round logs to reach the wide open great room. You will be drawn to look out the floor to ceiling windows to enjoy the views. Then you will realize how beautiful and impressive the room is.
Tongue and groove wood ceilings accented with solid wood beams
Wood floors, Stone Fireplace
Rounded archways lead to Sunroom
French doors to the porches
Lovely sliding energy efficient windows

The Fireplace
The fireplace is masonry hand built for use with wood or as a gas log burning fireplace. This masonry construction is hard to find in today’s new construction. The unit is equipped with a turn key for the gas (off or on). There is the option to remove the gas logs and burn wood, according to the owner. The fireplace is constructed of stacked stone from the floor to the ceiling, up two stories high.

The Kitchen
A very large area encompasses the kitchen and dining. Heavily beamed ceilings, windows to the view, and French doors to the porch open the kitchen to the outdoors. The gas grill connections are conveniently located on the porch. Much thought went into the design and function of the kitchen.
Thermador double ovens (convection and conventional)
Glass top range with tumbled stone back splash
Island with second sink and stain glass fixtures
Cherry wood Mission style cabinets · from Kraft Maid
· Self close drawers
· Lifting shelf for heavy mixers
· Wine storage
· Glass accent doors with lighting
Butlers’ pantry plus walk in pantry
· Tile and wood floors
· Much storage and many shelves
· Access to Laundry and Garage
Appliances that remain with house
· Stove and Double wall ovens
· Generator Hot Tub and
· Two disposals
· Mowing Tractor available (extra)

The Main Suite
Open views
French doors to covered porch with hot tub
Wood floors
Jacuzzi Whirlpool tub
Double vanities
Tile walk in shower with ‘rainfall’ head
Large walk in closet
Stain glass accent fixtures

Sun Room
Open all the windows for a sun porch ambiance
Arched doorway to access from the Grand Room

Powder room
In the Foyer
Hammered copper bowl sits on a finished furniture Cabinet
Kohler fixture

Upstairs
3 bedrooms, 3 full baths
with walk in closets
(plus a media room)
Open loft area (for computer/study)
View in both front & back of house

Work Shop
On lower level
Deluxe accommodations for a wood shop, etc.
Plenty of plugs, High voltage
Easy entry – drive in
Huge porch attached
Could be a game room, or???
Heated and cooled

2 car Garage
With storage
On main level

Porches
Round log posts and railings
Wood ceilings and beams

http://www.mountainheritage.com/listings/l0006.htmlClick HERE to learn more about this Log Home near Waynesville NC home for sale.

Lynda Bennett

real estate Broker

REALTY WORLD - Heritage Realty, Maggie Valley, NC

Protect Yourself with Knowledge - Avoid Mortgage Loan Scams

2009-04-20T22:17:00.002-04:00

http://activerain.com/blogsview/1043207/HEY-MOM-WHERES-FANNIE-MAE-LOAN-MODIFICATION-THE-NEXT-CONSUMER-SCAM-SCANDAL

I have posted this article written by another Realtor. As a group, we are exposed to the pain and anguish associated with these difficult economic times.

To add insult to injury through these scams is completely unacceptable. Please pass this article on to others that may benefit from this warning.

Fun in the snow in Maggie Valley... April 7, 2009

2009-04-07T09:36:00.007-04:00

(Maggie Valley, NC) A fresh blanket of snow has covered western North Carolina mountains. We have seen snow and much colder temperatures in April, recently in 2007. But it always seems to surprise us here in the Southern Appalachians (emphasis Southern). It is beautiful.

Is it also a good excuse to work from home today??? There is four inches at the 3500 foot elevation, which could make it challenging to get to town. But realistically we know that travelling will be fine once we reach the main roads; they will be clear and safe.

It is still drifting down, so for a little longer I will imagine that we are snowed in! I like that thought.

Thinking Snow? Click Here... http://cataloochee.ning.com/profile/LyndaBennett
Lynda Bennett from Maggie Valley

What can a Realtor do for me (in Maggie Valley, NC?)

2009-03-23T23:44:00.000-04:00

A full service Realtor will do a lot of things for you. Have you ever heard the saying…

‘If you think hiring a professional is expensive; just wait until you hire some one who is not.’

My Successful Selling System includes the
15 Point Plan to Sell your Property

4 Main Categories
· Internet Marketing
· Local and Regional Marketing
· Mailings – Mass Marketing
· On site – In Home Marketing

Internet Marketing
Internet Marketing – reaching millions of Buyers (Craigslist, Zillow, ‘Backpages’ of Florida newspapers, DuPont Registry) through over 40 different site postings
Visual Tour – 360 degree photos
Realtor.com upgraded site with additional photos and link to Visual Tour
Personal web sites: http://www.mountainheritage.com/ and http://www.realtyworldheritage.com/
Web Marketing associated with all print advertising medias
Local and Regional Marketing
Multiple Listing Service for 5 Counties surrounding Haywood County – contact with these agents brings in more buyers.
Print Advertising monthly
Real Scope board full display in the office
Mass Marketing
Mail outs and postcards reaching 100 - 200 neighboring residents and my sphere of influence to ask if they know a buyer for this home.
Talking House – radio broadcaster in the house to reach the buyers car radio
On site Marketing
Brochures that market the property from a flier box in the front yard and can be emailed to buyers
Sign in the Yard
Keys and Lock Box installation for easy showings
Track showings, make appointments and provide feedback to seller about all showings
Prepare a Home Buyers Book to leave information at the property for Buyers to review.
Use Lynda Bennett, as your Realtor
Lynda Bennett, Realtor
Providing a Peak Experience Since 1986

www.MountainHeritage.com

Surprise! Housing Starts Surge (So how is Maggie Valley?)

2009-03-18T21:12:00.002-04:00

WASHINGTON -- Housing construction posted a surprisingly large increase in February, bolstered by strength in all parts of the country except the West.

While the surge in construction was far better than the continued decline economists had expected, experts viewed the rebound as a temporary gain given all the problems the housing industry still faces.

The Commerce Department reported Tuesday that construction of new homes and apartments jumped 22.2 percent in February compared with January, pushing total activity to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 583,000 units. (By Martin Crutsinger - The Associated Press)

(Haywood County, NC) Maggie Valley has not seen the effects of this new construction surge. Many of these new starts appear to be in the rental/apartment sector. That is not the focus of our construction industry. We are focused on resort/second home sales.

We previewed a beautiful new Log construction in the Cove, today on caravan priced in the $600,000's. It is about 2/3 complete at this time. And i have a new home that is in foreclosure for sale - see complete details at: http://www.mountainheritage.com/listings/l0013.html

Lynda Bennett, a Peak Experience since1986

NC Foreclosures Down 50% in February (Maggie Valley, NC)

2009-03-18T17:37:00.000-04:00

It is important to keep our eyes focused on the light at the end of the tunnel. Interpreting the news that we receive daily requires some filters. And I am hearing indicators that are beneficial to North Carolina. For instance...

While the rest of the country is reeling from an unexpected rise in foreclosure filings, the number of foreclosures in North Carolina fell 49.7 percent in February, according to data from RealtyTrac Inc..

The state had 2,039 foreclosures in February, with one in every 2,023 homeowners receiving a default notice, auction-sale notice or bank-repossession filing.

Foreclosure filings in North Carolina fell 14.5 percent in February from January.

Across the country, foreclosure filings rose nearly 30 percent last month from February 2008. There were 290,631 foreclosure filings, which affected one in every 440 U.S. households. Nevada, Arizona and California posted the top foreclosure rates in the country last year.

Source: North Carolina Realtor Report:from Charlotte Observer (link Below for full article).
http://www.bizjournals.com/charlotte/stories/2009/03/09/daily36.html

2009-03-18T16:37:00.001-04:00

We heard good news about real estate at our office meeting today,3/18/09. Also, Interest rates are low (around 5%) and we have buyers looking for houses (if they are bargains). So things are looking up.

Maggie Valley NC real estate broker attending Glenn Beck showing

2009-03-13T00:03:00.001-04:00

Will be attending the 'You Are Not Alone' viewing in Asheville tommorrow at the Holiday Inn- Smokey Park Hwy exit 44&I-40 at 4:00 for Glenn Beck.

Lynda Bennett
Maggie Valley Real Estate Broker

Freebies on a web site near you (Maggie Valley NC)

2009-03-08T01:56:00.001-05:00

Check out Freecycle.com - where everything is free and it is in your neighborhood. Great place to give things away or get things you need. I signed up for Waynesville, NC.

Maggie Valley NC does not have it's own community.

Maggie Valley, NC - Good News in North Carolina Real Estate

2009-03-07T00:12:00.001-05:00

(MAggie Valley, NC real estate) As if we do not have enough to read every day… now I am sending you more things.

Attached below is a good looking newsletter if you want to read and print it - then open the LINK.

If you want to view online – go to the link below.
http://ping.fm/E9uD2

You will see:

>Lower foreclosure rate in North Carolina
>Higher ‘Affordability Index’ than any time since 1970
>More people moving into North Carolina!!!
Open the LINK and find out more… I hope this helps!

FORECLOSURE FACTS
> Nationally, January foreclosure filings decreased
10 percent compared to the previous month.
> In January, the number of foreclosures
occurring in N.C. decreased 29.3 percent when
compared to January 2008. Nationally,
foreclosure rates were 18 percent
higher in January 2009.
> North Carolina continues to descend in
the official ranking of foreclosure rates, and
is 33rd nationally.
> Four states – Nevada, Arizona, California
and Florida – represented 53 percent
of the 274,399 foreclosures in the
U.S. in January.

ECONOMY
> North Carolina is consistently at the forefront of
affordable housing. Most recently, Cornelius was
named one of the most affordable suburbs in the
country. Fayetteville and Rocky Mount were both
recognized for high price appreciations.
> In 2008, North Carolina welcomed the
most newcomers (versus loss of
residents) of any state, according
to moving services website
Relocation.com. For every 100 people
leaving, 180 moved in.

Lynda Bennett

MAggie Valley, NC real estate

IOUSA Movie - Very important for Our Times... Please Watch

2009-02-20T23:04:00.000-05:00

It will take a few minutes of time but provides a concise view of how our economy got where it is and what we need to do about it. These are some very respectable leaders.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O_TjBNjc9Bo

Thank you for your time.

What does this Market Really Mean in Maggie Valley Real Estate?

2009-02-16T02:22:00.000-05:00

Market Analysis: Are you Behind the Curve?

As we have been hearing on the news; prices are falling in real estate. Appraisals are coming in lower. The market is different than it has ever been before. What does that really mean?

It is shocking. It means that the value/price/sales price/list price of a house or property for sale is actually going down each month it is for sale.

This means that if you have real estate for sale and the price is too high; then you are behind the curve and losing ground daily. Every month (or year) that goes by - the gap between ‘what the properties are going to sell for’ and the ‘list price’ gets wider. Creating a scenario in which it is increasingly difficult to get an offer.

The obvious solution is to drastically reduce the price to create an environment where an offer may come in. The list price needs to be within 6% of the realistic sales price. As time moves along, the spread between the list price and the sales price widens. That creates the need for a substantial price reduction.

This is not the experience that we have seen in past years. In the past, prices went up over time. That made things easier. If you wanted more for your house – all you had to do was wait and the prices would rise; eventually reaching the asking price. These were the ‘good old days’.

Waiting will only make this problem worse - since we are not waiting for prices to go up; but rather for them to go down.

If you want to sell your property, it is important that this concept be fully understood. Rather than waiting until a low offer comes in, and trying to explain all of this in the moment; it seems like a good idea to discuss it in advance.

This information is not what any one wants to hear. If you are one of the people that needs to sell or that must sell – then this information is essential.

If you are one of the sellers that do not have to sell or you are attached to the price; then this is not what you want to hear, but it may not affect your decision.

These two scenarios are creating essentially two markets – one that is competitively priced and the other market that is not. The discrepancy between the two markets is becoming more evident.

We are making sales – over 1000 homes sold in Haywood County last year. Only the houses that are competitively priced are selling.

The real estate agent is responsible for marketing the property, but the buyers will decide which ones are competitively priced and which one to make an offer on. The seller is responsible for creating an environment that encourages offers.

It is my belief that if you want to sell, then it can done. My Marketing Plan is as strong as any you will find. It generates inquiries and gets the word out.

The buyers are very conservative right now and they will not over pay. They are shopping around and know what is on the market – now – not last year. There are many choices for them.

They are real buyers and they will buy. Now is a great time to buy. Low interest rates, great prices and a large inventory create a perfect market for buyers. And the activity is apparent for the competitive properties. Offers are being made and properties are selling.

Capitalism in Maggie Valley NC - Free Enterprise in Action

2009-01-29T19:53:00.000-05:00

I have been reading some articles that make me think.

Real Estate is one of the great success stories of Free Enterprise and Capitalism.

Real Estate is the basic Free Enterprise with individuals making decisions - taking the risks and gaining the benefits. The benefits may not be as explosive as they were in previous years; but the risks will be less also. Sometimes that is comforting to investors.

The lowest prices properties that are the best buys are selling. That is a true free market in action.

I am not ready to give up on the Free Enterprise system. There has not been a time in recent history when Americans could say, ‘Nationalize the Banks’ without accusations of Socialism or communism. There is no other option but to let bad banks fail.

The only way to reign in Capitalism is let capitalism work. It works by teaching greedy companies or banks a lesson. The lesson is failure. Greed makes the system work; Fear of Risk controls greed. When the government takes away the fear, then greed runs rampant.

How did the government reduce the fear?

This bank is too large to fail. That institution cannot be allowed to fail. The taxpayer can buy up your toxic debt. We can not let the banking system fail. The taxpayer can buy stock in your company (generally a company which is failing).

If people can not be allowed to lose their homes through foreclosure; the why would a bank loan money on a house that they can not foreclose if the person does not pay them back? Why would they take risk if there is not enough reward? It sounds sweet to say we should not foreclose; but the result is the banks will not loan money on houses.

So the taxpayer takes the risk while the Banks and Institutions pay large bonuses to the very people that ran the company into the mess in the first place. Now that the profits are less; they want someone else to absorb the risk – after they enjoyed years of profit and greed.

This scenario does not mean the system is broken – only that it is out of balance and greed overcame fear. If left alone, the system is sensing fear and will adjust to the new rules. But not if we (the taxpayers) absorb the risk and reduce the fear.

The Economy is huge – the government/taxpayer is but a small spec in relation to the economy. The only thing that is large enough to fix the economy is the economy. The government just is not large enough – does not have a large enough oversight committees – is too involved in setting policy for energy, wars, health and welfare – to be able to ‘control’ the economy.

When the government controls business - the worry we have - is that the government is controlled by special interest groups, their own political future, favors they owe, and a basic lack of time to devote and a lack of understanding about the problem.

So let business people take care of business. Motivated by greed – (and the desire to make money for themselves and the other people that work for the business); and controlled by fear that they will lose everything and go bankrupt. This system has made us the biggest economy on earth.

What other economy do we want to be like?

Everyone wants to be like us. So why are we changing the very basic rules of our economy, just because we are having a down turn. Did you expect it to go up forever?
We know better than that – what goes up must come down.

It went up really high; very fast and it is coming down. It is a normal business cycle.

I am a real estate agent. This downturn has not been good for me. I am willing to ride it out without the government saving me. I do not want to see us change our basic system of Free Enterprise – just because the housing market went down for a while.

Most real estate agents will tell you that the market was turning around last summer – until the government announcements that the economy was tanking and the housing market was dragging it down. That is not what was happening. The housing market will adjust and fix itself with out government interference.

We need good interest rates such as the ones we have now. We need good values and lower prices such as we have now. And individuals will make the decision to buy, because this is a good time to get in and maybe make a dollar of profit. They are controlled by fear and will make solid decisions.

The real estate market will adjust to the times. The people that need to sell - will sell – they will decide to reduce the price until it is attractive to buyers. The people that do not have to sell will wait until the market bottoms out and solidifies – and turns back up. The lowest and best priced properties are selling first. Now is the time to buy.

Statistics are showing that the bottom has been reached in many local markets. Yes, there are some markets nationwide that have not reached the bottom. The majority have reached the bottom.

The lowest prices are selling first. The Free Market system is working. It is a sight to see it in action.
- by Lynda Bennett

Short Sale on Log Cabin - Maggie Valley Real estate

2008-12-27T13:11:00.000-05:00

Short Sale on Log Cabin in the Mountains of North Carolina with Maggie Valley Views

$190,000 - Short Sale approval needed on this log home. Price per sq. ft is very competitive. High quality wood T&G ceilings, logs, and wood floors create the feeling of quality. Lots of glass to take in the Beautiful views and for a feeling of spaciousness. Porches, garage, den and ofice. Great room with vaulted ceilings and lots of glass, very attractive home - compare this price!!! See Virtual Tour on www.mountainheritage.com

Three or four bedrooms/3baths big covered porch and open deck. Paved access near Maggie Valley in Jonathan Creek area. MLS# 426114

List price is well below loan value on the house requiring bank approval of contract. Contact Lynda Bennett for more details and a showing.

302 Cedarwood

Waynesville , NC 28786

(828) 926-5200

Click here for price

Reduced to $190,000 - Log Cabin Moving Sale

Moving must sell - reduced price on this beautiful log home. Price per sq. ft is very competitive ($102./Sq.Ft.)... High quality wood T&G ceilings, some log walls, and wood floors create the feeling of quality... Beautiful VIEWS. Lots of glass to take in the views and for a feeling of spaciousness ... Garage with work shop area ... den/TV room on lower level, open great room above ... 4th bedroom is an office ... lots of decks and porches - covered porches on two levels ...

MORE...

Fall Colors in Maggie Valley North Carolina

2008-11-02T01:01:00.000-04:00

(Western North Carolina) This season's leaf colors are as brilliant as we can remember in recent years. Maggie Valley is just past the prime but the lower elevations such as Waynesville and Cherokee are just looking spectacular! Come see our Fall Decorations and pick up a pumpkin for Thanksgiving.

Many festivals and craft shows are planned during this time. This is one of the most popular times to visit the mountains. Rent a mountain get away from http://www.carolinavacations.com/

Snow in the NC Mountains - in October!

2008-11-02T00:40:00.000-04:00

Two inches of Snow

Cataloochie decided to start making snow on October 28, 2008. This is the earliest of any ski resort on the east coast. Cataloochie Winter Resort in Maggie Valley has been open for a longer season in recent years due to increased snow making potential.

Mother Nature also pitched in with a natural snow fall totaling 2 inches for Maggie Valley and Waynesville in Haywood County, North Carolina. That's early!

FDIC Foreclosures, Maggie Valley NC real estate

2008-10-08T00:52:00.000-04:00

FDIC Foreclosures create a lot of activity in the Maggie Valley market. In fact these are the first ever FDIC foreclosures in Haywood County in recent history.

To be an FDIC foreclosure a property must be foreclosed upon by the Bank making the original loan. Then the Bank must be closed or placed in receivership. The FDIC then protects the assets as receiver and markets them to the public.

It is a time consuming and complicated process. The main advantage is the reduced pricing offered by the FDIC. This process does create interest. It seems many buyers are interested in purchasing; if they can get a ‘good buy’.

These 6 log cabins and the tract of land are top quality and in an attractive area. The prices are below market value.

Save Energy Dollars on Heating Costs

2008-09-16T12:32:00.000-04:00

Set thermostat to the lowest comfortable setting. For each degree you lower your thermostat in winter, you can save up to 5% on heating bills (depending on your climate). An ENERGY STAR qualified furnace will use about 15% less energy than a standard model. With thanks to: ashleyhansen@advantageinspection.com

Billions and Billions (updated)

2008-08-06T23:44:00.000-04:00

Billion Dollars - How much is a Billion? (see updates from Snopes.com)

The next time you hear a politician use the word “Billion” in a casual manner, think about this: A Billion (1,000,000,000) is a difficult number to comprehend, but here is some perspective for you:
1. A Billion seconds ago it was 1959.
2. A Billion minutes ago Jesus was alive.
3. A Billion hours ago our ancestors were doing absolutely nothing!
4. A Billion days ago no-one walked on the earth on two feet.
5. A Billion dollars ago was only 8 hours and 20 minutes, at the rate our government is spending it! - YUP, that’s right - our government is hard at work spending your hard-earned tax dollars at the tune of $2.88 BILLION PER DAY!

When checking with www.snopes.com specifically http://www.snopes.com/inboxer/trivia/billions.asp

The actual numbers are a little different – in some cases worse – but in all cases still impressive. Check it out.
1. A Billion seconds ago it was 1959. / Actually 31.7 years or 1977.
2. A Billion minutes ago Jesus was alive. / Actually 1,901 years AGO or 107 AD.
3. A Billion hours ago our ancestors were doing absolutely nothing!/ Actually 114,000 years ago or the ‘Old Stone Age’.
4. A Billion days ago no-one walked on the earth on two feet. / 2.74 million years ago, about when the genus Homo appeared in Africa.
5. A Billion dollars ago was only 8 hours and 20 minutes / Actually worse … it is double that amount. When these calculations were first made the annual budget was $1 trillion; it now exceeds $2 trillion. So 4 hours and 10 minutes to spend a Billion Dollars.

While this thought is still fresh in our brains, let’s take a look at New Orleans. It’s amazing what you can learn with some simple long division. Louisiana Senator, Mary Landrieu (D), is presently asking the Congress for $250 BILLION to rebuild New Orleans. Interesting number, what does it mean?
A. Well, if you are one of 484,674 residents of New Orleans (every man, woman, child), you each get $516,528.
B. Or, if you have one of the 188,251 homes in New Orleans , your home gets $1,329,787.
C. Or, if you are a family of four, your family gets $2,066,012.
According to Snopes.com these calculations are pretty accurate – just a little difference.
Washington, D.C. HELLO!!! ... Are all your calculators broken??

What can I do?
I have been writing my US congressmen/women and US Senators; also my State and local Representatives. Of interest is that it is really hard to find an email address for them and then sometimes they do not work!

My goal has been to request that they not implement any more new sources of revenue, no new appropriations, and no new legislation that must be funded. STOP SPENDING More THAN they HAVE.

If they do vote for new legislation, then I request that it be to LOWER our TAXES.

Good Addresses to find our representatives:
http://www.senate.gov/general/contact_information/senators_cfm.cfm
http://www.house.gov/house/MemberWWW_by_State.shtml

Isn’t the Internet a powerful tool for grass roots Tax Reform?

Virtual Tour of Waynesville NC

2008-07-13T11:52:00.000-04:00

Click this photo to view the Virtual Tour of Waynesville.

Virtual Tour of Maggie Valley NC

2008-07-13T11:37:00.000-04:00

Click here to see the Virtual Tour, enjoy!

Maggie Valley NC celebrates Bicentennial

2008-07-13T11:33:00.000-04:00

Maggie Valley, NC celebrates Bicentennial with Storytelling

Maggie Valley neighbors and visitors enjoyed a special day with regional and local storytellers and crafts people on July 12, 2008. As Maggie Valley celebrates its bicentennial, the storytellers told of country store politics, mountain preachers, hound dogs, and even the dumb blonde.

As one local storyteller stated,” I learned to laugh at myself early on; cuz I realized I would miss out on half the fun in life if I didn’t”.

The Stomping ground hall was a twitter with the snickers of the crowd, punching each other in the sides and nodding, and with toe tapping during the mountain music intervals. All this entertainment – and it was for free.

The Maggie Valley festival grounds were busy with the Arts and Crafts Festival. There were many crafts booths and tasty foods.

A motorcycle rally passed through the valley on a scenic tour. And it was scenic that day.

The weather was perfect for July; blue skies and a high of about 78 degrees. Does it get any better than that?

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park & Cataloochie Valley

2008-07-12T19:49:00.000-04:00

The nation’s most popular National Park is on the very doorstep of Maggie Valley. The Great Smoky Mountains 520,000 acres of pristine mountainous terrain are protected under a national park status.

Haywood County has its own gateway into the National Park via the Cataloochee Valley on the far eastern side of the park. Camping, hiking, trout fishing, tubing, horseback riding and mountain biking are some of the outdoor recreation opportunities the national park has to offer.

The popular and remote Cataloochee Valley (an historical section of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park) dips into the northeastern corner of Haywood County near Maggie Valley. The classification of Maggie Valley as the ‘Elk Capital of North Carolina’ is well deserved since the Cataloochee Valley is home to approximately 120 head of elk. This provides a favorite destination for many visitors especially at sunset and early morning.

The Cataloochee Valley gravel forestry road is well maintained and used by many visitors who enjoy getting away. This access road into the Great Smoky Mountains is not paved like the Newfound Gap Road (US Hwy 441) from Cherokee to Gatlinburg,TN.

Cattaloochee Valley makes a great day trip, but remember to take food and supplies into the valley. This area is not to be confused with the Cataloochee Ski resort on the other side of Maggie. To find the Valley, travel Hwy 276 North following signs to I-40. Just before you reach the I-40 entrance take a left on White Oak Road and follow signs to the Cataloochee Valley. The road is gravel for a long way so do not give up too soon.

Take only pictures – Leave only Footprints

Great Smoky Mountains, Maggie Valley NC

2008-07-12T19:33:00.000-04:00

The High Country of the Great Smoky Mountains
‘The High Country of the Great Smoky Mountains’ is an apt description of Haywood County because within its boundary are 19 mountain peaks, all reaching well over 6,000 feet above sea level. Haywood County’s 19 mountain peaks are the largest number of mountain peaks over 6,000 feet in any single county east of the Rocky Mountains.

Maggie Valley is well known as a steep mountain valley surrounded by these towering peaks. In the heat of summer, the air rises over these high mountains causing it to cool before it flows down into the valley providing a cool breeze. They also provide snow fall for the Cataloochee Ski area in the winter months. The long distance and dramatic mountain views are a trademark. All these factors contribute to make Maggie Valley a popular vacation destination.

“Its’ ever expanding communities of vacation homes and year round residents has made Haywood County one of the most prestigious regions in all Western North Carolina”, quoted from, Blue Ridge Highlander.com

Pat Bennett, Maggie Valley, NC real estate

2008-07-12T19:30:00.000-04:00

Pat Bennett

Pat Bennett was born in Miami, Florida, where his family arrived by covered wagon as one of the original settlers in 1892. It was a wonderful place to grow up with salt water fishing, pleasant climate, and his family living nearby. Pat graduated from Coral Park High School and went on to Miami Dade Junior College and on to graduate from University of Georgia with a BS-ED in Education with a history minor.

He returned to Miami to begin teaching. As he sat in bumper to bumper traffic, traveling to work one day, he decided times had changed and he wanted to raise his children in a different environment. So after spending many summers in western North Carolina outside Cashiers, he knew just where he wanted to be.

In 1975, an opportunity arose to become the Personnel Director for western North Carolina Department of Transportation. He learned a lot about politics and the mountains in that position. He lived in Maggie Valley and eventually purchased the IGA grocery store in town and operated it for several years with his Mother, before selling it to his brother. It seems that much of the family had gotten the same idea and had relocated to the mountains as well. Pat settled down and started raising a family with two daughters Rachael and Sarah.

Once Pat went into real estate in 1977, there was no looking back. He sold the grocery and ended up buying the real estate office he worked with, REALTY WORLD – Heritage Realty. This is probably the oldest operating real estate office in Haywood County.

Since those early days, Pat has seen a lot of real estate trends come and go:
•the high interest rates of the 1980’s followed by the Savings and Loans crash induced opportunities for creative financing,
•the origination of the MLS and then the internet have changed real estate forever,
•the addition of Rental Management (Carolina Vacations) and its growth to the largest rental management company west of Asheville,
•the building of REALTY WORLD – Heritage into one of the top producing companies in the county, and
•the knowledge gained in building eleven (11) residential developments from the ground up, in an ever changing regulatory environment.
Times have changed, and he has learned from each experience.

Pat is focusing on the development of Katua Falls at this time. New construction of homes in Katua Falls is next on the agenda. He has sold his interest in Carolina Vacations and REALTY WORLD – Heritage to business associates.

His extensive experience is a benefit to any project or investor with whom he is involved.

Hire a Professional - MAggie Valley NC real estate

2008-07-12T19:27:00.000-04:00

‘If you think hiring a professional is expensive; wait until you hire an amateur’
-anonymous

Please choose: Lynda Bennett
Real estate broker - Maggie Valley and Waynesville, NC

Maggie Valley NC real estate: Bank Owned Properties

2008-07-06T13:58:00.000-04:00

There is considerable interest in Bank Owned properties at this time. Six new log cabins have just entered the market, plus one track of land. These are located in Wolf Creek Resort, Maggie Valley, NC. the Bank owned prices start at $273,000 and top out at $353,000. This accounts for up to a $192,000 reduction in price. This is a summary of the price changes.

191 Driftwood Loop (Casa Lizzie)New MLS# 417636 - $273,000 -Old MLS #393762 $296,750

193 Driftwood Loop (Lazy Willow)New MLS# 417774 - $347,000-Old MLS #393858 $539,000

209 Driftwood Loop (Andre’s)New MLS# 417806 - $309,900-Old MLS #393860 $429,000

266 Driftwood Loop (Allen’s T.P) New MLS# 417828 - $273,000-Old MLS #393904 $429,000

282 Driftwood (Linen House) New MLS# 417878 -$353,900 - Old MLS #393905 $539,000

7 Acorn Way (Casa Abby) New MLS# 417903 - $275,000 - Old MLS #393903 $299,750
3.29 acres Acorn Way (Vacant Land) *New MLS#417919 - $170,000 *(All remaining vacant land in Wolf Creek Resort is now included in this listing)

Contact: Lynda Bennett for more information.
828421-7279

Maggie Valley NC real estate

2008-07-06T13:53:00.000-04:00

WHAT MAKES THE WESTERN NORTH CAROLINA MOUNTAINS SO SPECIAL?
by: Lynda Bennett

The answers are easy to find. Since the days when the locomotives first chugged up the
Saluda grade to destinations such as Flat Rock, Lake Lure, Waynesville, Black Mountain, Dillsboro and Asheville, “summer people” have been visiting the mountains. They may have come for different reasons such as the lack of air conditioning or the fear of mosquitoes laden with disease in the sultry southern lowlands, or a family connection brought them home. The original reasons varied from person to person.

The reasons they found to return year after year - and to love these mountains - can still be found here today.

All age groups will find a reason to come to the mountains … and to return year after year. Each visit brings new discoveries and a return to many places that have become favorites over a lifetime.

One reason the connection is so special is that people begin to develop “Roots” in the mountains that last through the generations. The connection brings people back and they in turn bring family and friends with them to share this special place. In time, many folks come to call these mountains “home” (or second home).

So what have all these summer people been doing with themselves?
What makes these mountains so special?

The Scenic Beauty:
Shining Rock Wilderness area
Water Rock Knob – a short climb
Blue Ridge Parkway – drive the top ridge of the mountains
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Maggie Valley – view from Hwy. 19 past Ghost Town

The Cultural Attractions:
Cherokee Indians – museum, basket making tradition, Unto These Hills
Handicrafts – local potters, quilt makers, wood working, and more
Mountain Music and Dancing
Local HART Theatre
Local Craft Shows

The Historical Aspects:
Cataloochie Valley – Elk preserve and old Mountain Heritage community
Historic Downtown Waynesville – for food, shopping and fun
Shelton House Museum
Canton Paper Museum and Opera House

The Great Outdoors:
Scenic Drives
White Water rafting, kayaking, and floating
The Southernmost Ski Slope on the East Coast
Waterfalls and Sliding Rock
Hiking
Mountain Biking – see Tsali Trails
Horseback Riding
Trout fishing in Jonathan creek, Maggie Valley

The Quiet Culture:
We call ourselves the ‘Quiet Side of the Mountains”
Read a good book about the region
Sip on a mug of tea
Play games
Chase butterflies
Identify song birds and raptors, wild flowers and trees
Build a fire and sit around it
Play in a creek

It will not take long before you will be planning to move here or at least to come back for your next visit.

Check out http://www.mountainheritage.com/ for specific information on these activities.