A modest gain in the level of home sales is possible over the next couple months, and an improvement is forecast for the second half of this year as more buyers are able to access affordable mortgages, according to the latest forecast by the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®.

The Pending Home Sales Index, a forward-looking indicator based on contracts signed in April, rose 6.3 percent to 88.2 from a reading of 83.0 in March. It’s the highest index since last October, but remains 13.1 percent lower than April 2007, when it stood at 101.5.

Lawrence Yun, NAR chief economist, says pending sales contracts have picked up notably in areas undergoing significant price drops.

“Bargain hunters have entered the market en masse, especially in areas that have experienced double-digit price declines, but it’s unclear if they are investors or owner-occupants,” he says. “Sharp price reductions are leading to a quicker discovery of price equilibrium points. The West is already seeing year-over-year gains in pending contracts.”   

“More than 8 out of 10 recent home buyers were “very satisfied with their agent’s

Knowledge of the purchase process and their agent’s honesty and integrity.” 

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 Located on the Hiwassee River in western North Carolina, stretching 22 miles northwest to southeast. It is immediately upstream from Appalachia Reservoir.

Surrounded by the Nantahala and Cherokee National Forests, Hiwassee and the adjacent Appalachia Reservoir serve as a rich habitat for deer, wild turkey, and other animals. Below Hiwassee Dam a day-use park on Appalachia Reservoir provides access to boating, fishing, and exploring the reservoir and its tributaries.

The Hiwassee is exceptionally beautiful and well suited for canoeing, rafting, and learning the basics of whitewater boating. The flow of water in the reservoir comes from deep below the surface and is chilly, even in the summer.

In addition to recreation, Hiwassee Reservoir serves a number of other purposes, including flood control and power generation.

 Each month Southern Mountains Realty will feature a new article of interest from our local mountain area.  From the lakes and communities  of northeast Georgia to the rushing rivers, miles and miles of United State Forest Service Lands, State and National parks and high mountain vistas of western North Carolina.

Whether your goal is to have that perfect log home, cabin or parcel of land here in our beautiful Appalachian mountains; let Kathryn Shanaberger, Owner Broker of Southern Mountains Realty guide you through the process, local areas and representation. Having a REALTOR®  with over 10 years experience in North Carolina and Georgia real estate sales gives you the added power you need to make the right purchase for the least amount of money. 

Office 828-837-1554     Fax 828-837-1554    mountains@dnet.net

Cherohala Skyway

Crossing through the Cherokee and Nantahala National Forests from which it gets its name  - Chero, from Cherokee, and hala, from Nantahala - this ridge route connects Robbinsville in North Carolina to Tellico Plains in Southeast Tennessee.  

The route through the North Carolina side looks down on the Appalachian Mountains and the Snowbird, Slickrock and Joyce Kilmer Forests. On clear days you can see as far as the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.  

On the Tennessee side you will enjoy the splendor of the Cherokee National Forest, including Bald River Falls and the Tellico River.

 Motorcycle enthusiast, cruising sport cars and anyone else just up for a fantastic drive enjoy the many vistas the Cherohala Skyway has to offer. With its 50 miles of meandering curves and striking views, one can only feel the scene of appreciation and wonder the Appalachian Mountains hold. As you cruise, you will travel up to approximately 5,300 feet in elevation. Bring lunch, the park offers many picnic areas and pull-offs for that perfect photo.

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Questions or comments? E-mail us at mountains@dnet.net or call 828-837-1554

Copyright© Southern Mountains Realty www.southernmountains.com

Home inspections will vary depending on the type of property you are purchasing. A large historic home, for example, will require a more specialized inspection than a small condominium. However, the following are the basic elements that a home inspector will check. You can also use this list to help you evaluate properties you might purchase.

For more information, try the virtual home inspection at www.ASHI.org, the Web site of the American Society of Home Inspectors.

Structure: A home’s skeleton impacts how the property stands up to weather, gravity, and the earth. Structural components, including the foundation and the framing, should be inspected.

Exterior: The inspector should look at sidewalks, driveways, steps, windows, and doors. A home’s siding, trim, and surface drainage also are part of an exterior inspection.
Doors and windows

· Siding (brick, stone, stucco, vinyl, wood, etc.)

· Driveways/sidewalks

· Attached porches, decks, and balconies

· Roofing: A well-maintained roof protects you from rain, snow, and other forces of nature. Take note of the roof’s age, conditions of flashing, roof draining systems (pooling water), buckled shingles, loose gutters and downspouts, skylight, and chimneys.

Plumbing: Thoroughly examine the water supply and drainage systems, water heating equipment, and fuel storage systems. Drainage pumps and sump pumps also fall under this category. Poor water pressure, banging pipes, rust spots, or corrosion can indicate problems.
 

· Electrical: Safe electrical wiring is essential. Look for the condition of service entrance wires, service panels, breakers and fuses, and disconnects. Also take note of the number of outlets in each room.

Heating: The home’s heating system, vent system, flues, and chimneys should be inspected. Look for age of water heater, whether the size is adequate for the house, speed of recovery, and energy rating.

Air Conditioning: Your inspector should describe your home cooling system, its energy source, and inspect the central and through-wall cooling equipment. Consider the age and energy rating of the system.

Interiors: An inspection of the inside of the home can reveal plumbing leaks, insect damage, rot, construction defects, and other issues. An inspector should take a close look at:

       Walls, ceilings and floors

· Steps, stairways, and railings

· Countertops and cabinets

· Garage doors and garage door systems

Ventilation/insulation: To prevent energy loss, check for adequate insulation and ventilation in the attic and in unfinished areas such as crawlspaces. Also look for proper, secured insulation in walls. Insulation should be appropriate for the climate. Excess moisture in the home can lead to mold and water damage.

Fireplaces: They’re charming, but they could be dangerous if not properly installed. Inspectors should examine the describe solid fuel burning appliances.

Source: American Society of Home Inspectors