Continued Improvement For The Smoky Mountain Real Estate Market

Posted by Gatlin on

Nationally the real estate market is improving and the statistics for single family homes in Sevier County show that the Smoky Mountain region is no exception. The numbers show strong improvement over last year in most categories for the first half of the year, let’s take a look.  

June’s numbers keep 2012 ahead of last year in the category of Total Residences Sold. With a difference of 21% or 111 more homes sold than the same period last year we see that buyer activity continues to be strong.

In the Total Dollar Volume Sold category 2012 outperforms 2011 with a 7% increase. This is just under seven million dollars more real estate sold than in the first half of 2011.

The Average Sold Price is still behind 2011 but shows improvement from last month. Through June the average price is down 11%, last month it was a 14% decrease from 2011. The number of foreclosures that are being sold and leaving the market continues to help with improving this number.  

In the last category of Average Days On Market we see signs that buyers are in the market and ready, willing and able to buy. With a 7% decrease in time on the market there is no doubt that the Smoky Mountain real estate market is active.  

The market is changing for the positive at a steady pace and we believe this trend will continue. Considering the purchase of a Smoky Mountain home? This is the time to take advantage of current mortgage affordability and the wide variety of available homes for sale. Spend some time browsing our website to see everything the area has to offer. When the time is right we are ready to assist you on your path to owning a mountain home.

Here Are A Few Of My Featured Listings:

Private Chalet Minutes To Downtown Produced $23,207 rental income for 2010 & right at $20,000 for 2011! Great location only a mile from the 441 Parkway and about 1.5 miles to downtown Gatlinburg. Type: Single Family Home Location: Chalet Village Price: $189,900 Get more information >

 

Two Acre Mountain Retreat Charming log cabin on a private two acres. Type: Single Family Home Location: Pigeon Forge Price: $189,900 Get more information >

 

Great Home Or Home Away From Home Custom built home in desirable Norton Creek. It is in such good condition, you’ll think it was just finished. Thoughtful design for year around low maintenance make it suitable for retirement, second home use or as a family home. Type: Single Family Home Location: Gatlinburg ,Tennessee Price: $269,900 Get more information >

 

 

Expect Strong Improvement For The Real Estate Market In 2012

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When we looked at the Smoky Mountain market statistics for January through May of 2012 it was noted that homes are selling faster, sales volume is up but prices are still down by 14% from last year. We believe that this is directly related to the still existing inventory of distressed homes that are lingering on the market. Distressed homes affect not only the market but families, communities and the overall economy. It is positive news that both lenders and government have been working through several new options and getting more aggressive in their  attempts to liquidate inventory and prevent more from coming to the market. The National Association of REALTORS believes that increasing access to affordable loans and committing more resources to loan modifications and short sales is the key to calming the situation.

As we move through the year we expect to see the average sales price move more and more towards stronger numbers. Buyers are actively involved in the market and mortgage rates are at all time lows. The pieces are falling in place for a market recovery and every month we see more positive news both locally and nationally. The National Association of REALTORS reports that although the last four years in home sales have been essentially flat they forecast a solid increase of around 400,000 more homes sold in 2012. Nationally all major home price trackers are showing a trend of rising home prices in many areas. Harvard University’s Joint Center for Housing Studies released it’s Annual State of The Nation’s Housing report for 2012. The report points to increasingly strong market fundamentals and says home sales could see serious improvement this year.

Slower job growth, the above mentioned distressed properties and the slow pace that young people are moving in to their own homes are a few things hanging over the recovery but things are moving in the right direction. With rentals getting pricier and mortgage affordability at an all time high, demand continues to increase. The report from Harvard includes a detailed graph showing how much more affordable mortgage payments have become compared to rental rates. We expect to see many more first time buyers entering the market as the year progresses.

With the flurry of activity in the market now could be a great time to consider putting a home on the market as buyer exposure is continuing to increase. Wondering how much the market may have changed this year? We are happy to prepare a free Market Analysis for you to give you an idea of what buyers are currently paying for homes similar to yours.

Thinking of buying a mountain home? With plenty of properties at great prices still to be found in the Smoky Mountain region and mortgage rates so low, now is the time to enter the market. We are happy to assist you with getting pre-approved, finding the right home and assisting with your path to home ownership. Why not take a look at all that is available at our website?

Here Are A Few Of My Featured Listings:

Like Brand New
The effective year built on this cabin is basically 2009. A very impressive top to bottom remodel has totally transformed it into one the nicest and most up to date you’ll find.
Type: Single Family Home
Location: Chalet Village
Price: $488,000
Get more information >

 

Custom Built Home On The River
Custom built home on the Pigeon River with year around mountain views in one of Sevierville’s most sought after neighborhoods.
Type: Single Family Home
Location: Sevierville,TN
Price: $389,700
Get more information >

 

Secluded & Private Country Home
Over $30k rental income in both 2010 & 2011! This secluded & private country home is located in the heart of the Arts & Crafts community.
Type: Single Family Home
Location: Gatlinburg ,Tennessee
Price: $289,900
Get more information >

 

The Smoky Mountain Real Estate Market Is Heating Up

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As we look at the statistics for single family homes in Sevier County through the end of May we are met with positive news in several categories. Buyer activity in the market continues to be strong, distressed properties are closing and disappearing from the market and higher priced homes are starting to move. Let’s take a look at what the numbers have to say.

2012 continues to stay ahead of last year in the category of Total Residences Sold. With a difference of 21% or 94 more homes than the same period last year there is no doubt that the market is active.

May gave 2012 some momentum and overtakes 2011 with a 4% increase in the Total Dollar Volume Sold category. This is an increase of just over $3,000,000 in real estate sold.

The Average Sold Price is the only category that is still not ahead of 2011, showing a 14% decrease. This can be attributed to the continued liquidation of distressed homes and as the year continues we can expect to see this number looking more positive as well.

In the last category of Average Days On Market we continue to see signs that we are in an active and improving market as we see the time on the market decrease by 9% vs. last year.

If you have been thinking of putting your Smoky Mountain property on the market now is a great time to get a free market analysis and measure what the market may have to offer. Properties are certainly moving and buyers are continuing to stream in to the market. Thinking of purchasing? There are still several great deals available and a wide variety of properties to choose from. Why not take a look at our website and see if your dream property is waiting for you here in the Smoky Mountains?

Here Are A Few Of My Featured Listings:

Consistent $$$ Maker At A Great Price!! CONSISTENTLY RENTED OVER 200 DAYS PER YEAR FOR THE PAST FOUR YEARS, WITH REVENUE RANGING FROM $38,000-$41,000! Wonderful and spacious 3-level cabin tucked away in Gatlinburg and only a short drive to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park! Type: Single Family Home Location: Gatlinburg ,Tennessee Price: $250,000 Get more information >

 

Simply Unforgettable Over $20,000 in rental income for both 2010 & 2011! Located near Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail this charming log cabin is sure to please. Beautiful wooded setting, very private and serene. Type: Single Family Home Location: Gatlinburg ,Tennessee Price: $199,900 Get more information >

 

Updated & Mountain Views Want a great investment property? Then this is it! Already on a rental program and has a great rental history. Recently updated, offers private bedroom suites, and has a sky walk to balcony and mountain views. Type: Single Family Home Location: Chalet Village Price: $219,900 Get more information >

 

The Housing Market Sees Best First Quarter In Five Years

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Existing home sales rose 3.4 percent over last year in April and the National Association of REALTORS has reported that the first quarter of 2012 has been the strongest for home sales since 2007. Lawrence Yun, NAR Chief Economist said “It is no longer just the investors who are taking advantage of high affordability conditions. A return of normal home buying for occupancy is helping home sales across all price points and now the recovery appears to be extending to home prices.”

We believe that there are many factors contributing to improving conditions. We are seeing all time low mortgage rates with Freddie Mac reporting the national average rate for a 30 year, fixed rate, conventional mortgage at 3.91 percent in April. With that trend, first-time buyers rose to 35% of purchasers in April. As confidence in the market continues to rise we will see even more improvement.

NAR President, Moe Veissi, highlights how important it is for home buyers to look into financing at the early stages of searching for a home stating, “With the tight lending environment it’s a good idea to consult with a REALTOR about mortgages and program options in your area and tips for boosting your credit score well in advance of making an offer on a home.” Being pre-approved is one of the strongest negotiation tools a buyer can have on their side. You may find out more about the process in a previous post titled “Why Should You Get Pre-Approved To Purchase A Smoky Mountain Home?”

For sellers, we see a lowering percentage of foreclosures and distressed homes on the market which is helping home prices. Yun said, “We now have broad shortages of lower priced homes in much of the country, with very tight supply in Western states for homes through the middle price ranges. This is good news for many sellers who wish to list now or for those waiting for prices to improve.” In April, the median existing single family home price was up 10.4% from April of 2011 nationally. In the South, existing home sales rose 3.5% in April and was 6.5% higher than a year ago with the median price raising 8% from April of 2011.

As we move forward further into 2012 with an eye on 2013 economists predict that conditions will continue to improve. As a buyer, now may be just the right time to start searching for your perfect Smoky Mountain home. With plenty of inventory to choose from and favorable lending rates, why not stop by our website and see what the market has to offer?

Here Are A Few Of My Featured Listings:

Smoky Mountain Views Found Here! Magnificent mountain views but just minutes to downtown Gatlinburg. This mountain get away is perfect for the buyer looking for a prime location at a great price. Type: Single Family Home Location: Chalet Village Price: $147,900 Get more information >

 

Character, Details & Views! Pictures do not do justice to the view! Picturesque home with tons of space and lots of windows. Wine cellar/tasting room are just one of the many unique features you will enjoy. Type: Single Family Home Location: Gatlinburg ,Tennessee Price: $384,200 Get more information >

 

Come Be A Happy Bear Great rental potential with $12,270 in rental income just for August – December of 2011. Type: Single Family Home Location: Gatlinburg ,Tennessee Price: $269,900 Get more information >

 

Smoky Mountain Homes Are Moving Fast In 2012

Posted by Gatlin on

We are still experiencing some glitches with the Great Smoky Mountains Association of REALTORS statistical reporting however some data is available. This week we would like to take a look at how 2012 is shaping up so far for the Smoky Mountain real estate market. The numbers below are for Sevier County single family residences and show a positive trend in a few key areas over last year.

In our first category of Residences Sold Through April we see good news with a total of 58 more homes sold in 2012.

As we take a look at the Total Volume Sold through April we see the numbers very close to 2011 with only a 3% decrease.

The category of Average Sold Price is also down from last year. This is still encouraging news as we see that in April almost half of the properties sold were foreclosures being liquidated. It is positive to see banks taking the needed steps to get distressed properties sold and off the market. As this continues to happen at a rapid pace we will start to see prices leveling out again.

In the last category, Average Days On Market, we again see a positive trend over last year with 30 less days this year than in 2011.

May continues to be busy in 2012 with a flurry of buyer activity in the area. Now is the time to take advantage of some of the great deals that are still to be had. Whether you are looking for an investment, vacation home or even land to build on, plenty of opportunities are available. Take a look at our website to browse all that the region has to offer.

Here Are A Few Of My Featured Smoky Mountain Deals:

Come Home To A Resort Setting Just one mile from Ober Gatlinburg is where you will find this super affordable condo. Nestled in a resort like community you will enjoy all of the best amenities the Smoky Mountain area has to offer. Type: Condo Location: Gatlinburg ,Tennessee Price: $75,000 Get more information >

 

180 Degree Mountain & City Light Views $14,300 rental income in 2010 with 2011 already ahead at $14,500 through October. Very private ridgetop retreat w/ wraparound covered deck that has amazing 180 degree views of the mountains & city lights. Type: Single Family Home Location: Price: $189,900 Get more information >

 

Beautiful Ridge Top Property! Great Deal Beautiful ridge top property with level building site. Clear a few trees to have a wonderful mountain view. Driveway to the top of the ridge. VERY MOTIVATED SELLERS! Type: Land Location: Gatlinburg, Tennessee Price: $33,000 Get more information >

 

Nestled In The Smoky Mountains, Pigeon Forge Is A Great Place To Call Home

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This month we would like to shine the spotlight on the quaint mountain town of Pigeon Forge. Let’s take a look at some of the history of this town and everything it has to offer to today’s home buyer.

Surrounded by the blue mist of the Great Smoky Mountains, the community of Pigeon Forge, Tennessee is filled with rivers and streams, waterfalls and native flowering plants and trees. Pigeon Forge is packed with southern hospitality and as many as 11 million tourists visit each year making the town not only one of the fastest growing tourist destinations in the southern states, but a charming real estate market with a strong economy.

Located along Highway 441 only five miles from Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge is an action-packed town nestled in the breathtaking setting of eastern Tennessee. It is a wonderful place to call home, or to invest in a home away from home. Some of the more popular attractions in Pigeon Forge are the Dollywood theme park and water park, golf courses with rolling hills, tubing, hiking, backpacking, camping, horseback riding and helicopter rides over the misty blue mountains. Follow any of these activities with dinner at one of many diverse restaurants offering cuisines to inspire all tastes.

Ultimately, the greatest appeal of Pigeon Forge is the natural surroundings that boast four distinct and mild seasons to satisfy the lifestyles of all residents and visitors alike. If the never-ending recreational opportunities of this outdoor mecca do not inspire homebuyers, perhaps they will be by the distinction given by Southern Living Magazine Readers™ Choice Award in 1996 as being the shopping paradise of the south, with unlimited outlet malls and retail shops, surrounded by a thriving real estate market.

One of the earliest settlers to the Little Pigeon River in the Sevier County region was a man named Richard Fanshiers, and the town held his name, Fanshiers, until the early 1800s. Along the beautiful river that flowed through the land grew beech trees and the beech nuts feed the now extinct species of Passenger Pigeons that flocked to the river. In 1820, Isaac Love built an iron forge along the river, and in 1841 a post office was established under the name of Pigeon Forge. In 1885, a mill was built in the location and is still in operation today, using the same machinery. The mill is a National Historic Landmark and a proud part of the history of Pigeon Forge.

In 1946, changing the face of history, an old tobacco barn was sold and became Pigeon Forge Pottery. This sale officially marked the first tourism-related business in the region and the beginning of what would transform cornfields into tourist attractions to create the backbone of the local economy. This once sleepy mountain community is now a bustling real estate market in Pigeon Forge offering single family homes, cozy or resort style log cabin homes with stunning mountain vistas, gated communities, condos and townhomes, golf course homes and large estate homes. Sevier County is proud of its low crime rate, exceptional educational systems and healthcare, along with a booming work environment.

The small town atmosphere of Pigeon Forge, filled with genuine southern charm and hospitality, is one of the other many reasons to call this community home. Homes for sale in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee are reasonably priced and exceptional in value. Buyers looking to relocate or invest in a second home, will find the real estate market in Pigeon Forge to be varied in styles and amenities, offering mountain charm and modern conveniences, surrounded by the tranquility and hanging blue mist of the Great Smoky Mountains.

With something for everyone, why not take a look at all the real estate choices Pigeon Forge has to offer. You can start by browsing available homes at our website.

Here Are A Few Of My Featured Pigeon Forge Listings:

Private Log Cabin In The Mountains Did over $20K in rental income in just six months of 2011! This is a really fantastic log cabin. Huge rooms, great lay out, high ceilings and all wood interior. Type: Single Family Home Location: Pigeon Forge Price: $275,000 Get more information >

 

Enjoy A Mountain Sunset From Here Incredible large diameter log construction creates a special, solid, and timeless appeal. Type: Single Family Home Location: Pigeon Forge Price: $450,000 Get more information >

 

Smoky Mountain Money Maker Smoky Mountain money maker did over $26,000 in rental income for both 2010 & 2011. Nestled in a resort like neighborhood this large cabin is filled with amenities & is close to Dollywood. Type: Single Family Home Location: Pigeon Forge Price: $179,900 Get more information >

 

The Forecast Calls For An Improving Housing Market

Posted by Gatlin on

As we have mentioned in previous articles, this year has remained steadily busy and we are seeing higher home sales prices than have been evident in quite some time. We see the Gatlinburg and Sevier County markets moving steadily and economists are pointing to improvement in the national real estate market as well. We would like to apologize for not providing the monthly market statistics for March. Our local MLS system is experiencing technical difficulties and is not reporting accurate numbers. We hope this issue can be remedied soon. In the meantime we would like to share a little bit about what is going on overall in the real estate market.

In a recent article, Lawrence Yun, NAR Chief Economist, said the recovery is in the process of settling into a higher level of home sales. Existing home sales were slightly down in March but are still 5.2% above the same period in 2011. The National Association of REALTORS reports that inventory has tightened and home prices continue to show signs of stabilizing. Mr. Yun stated, “The recovery is happening though not at a breakout pace, but we have seen nine consecutive months of year-over-year sales increases. He went on to say, “Existing home sales are moving up and down in a fairly narrow range that is well above the level of activity during the first half of last year. With job growth, low interest rates, bargain home prices and an improving economy, the pent-up demand is coming to market and we expect housing to be notably better this year.”

Nationally, the median existing home price for all housing types was just under $164,000 in March. Short sales and foreclosures made up 29% of March sales compared with 40% in March of 2011. In the South, existing home sales are reported at 3.6 percent higher than one year ago.

Freddie Mac reports that the national average commitment rate for a 30 year, conventional, fixed rate mortgage was 3.95 percent in March, down from 4.84 percent in March of 2011. This makes financing very attractive for homebuyers and is opening up options for many.

All of this points to a steady move towards a positive outcome for the 2012 real estate market. Locally we are seeing a shift in buying patterns with more buyers present in the market and able to procure financing. Now is the time to enter the market, take advantage of extremely low mortgage rates and great housing deals available in inventory. With many financing options it may be a prime time to speak with a lender, see what is available and get pre-approved. Having a pre-approval in hand will put you in a great position when you find your “Smoky Mountain Dream”. There is a lot to choose from, start at our website and view all that the Great Smoky Mountains have to offer.

Here Are A Few Of My Featured Listings:

Heirloom Quality Throughout Not often does a living piece of history come available for sale, perhaps once a generation. Such a time is this. Heirloom quality throughout this solidly built stone cottage boasts quality not often seen in homes built today. Type: Single Family Home Location: Pittman Center Price: $395,000 Get more information >

 

Private Mountain Retreat Private three bedroom, three bath Log Cabin with great mountain views from three decks. Type: Single Family Home Location: Pigeon Forge Price: $320,000 Get more information >

 

Character, Details & Views! Pictures do not do justice to the view! Picturesque home with tons of space and lots of windows. Wine cellar/tasting room are just one of the many unique features you will enjoy. Type: Single Family Home Location: Gatlinburg ,Tennessee Price: $384,200 Get more information >

 

Great Things Happening For The Gatlinburg Real Estate Market

Posted by Gatlin on

It has been not only an exceptionally busy year but also a year that has brought great news for the local housing market. Many sellers fear that buyers are not willing to spend much money and many buyers fear that banks are not willing to lend much, especially on investment or second homes. Recent events point to a very different story for both buyers and sellers. On March 14th, our team closed the largest residential real estate transaction that our local MLS service has seen in over five years. This was not a cash deal nor a distressed sale. It is simply a feel good story of willing buyer, seller and lender coming together. The home pictured above is a twelve bedroom vacation rental property here in Chalet Village above Gatlinburg. Many thought it would be impossible to sell in today’s market. With conventional bank financing and a willing and able buyer we were able to gain an acceptable offer and successfully close the transaction with a purchase price of $1,750,000. What does this mean for your real estate plans? The fears of a slow market are becoming a thing of the past. The market is saturated with buyers and banks are lending money. If you have been considering putting your home on the market, now may be a great time to request a market analysis.

This kind of market movement is combined with recent attention for the area from Forbes magazine. In a recent article they have named Gatlinburg one of the Top 10 Prettiest Towns In America. Calling upon experts from the Travel Channel, National Geographic, travel authors and others to bring the list together, Forbes cites many reasons why Gatlinburg made the list. Zain Habboo, National Geographic’s director of travel stated “The wildflowers around Gatlinburg and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park are absolutely spectacular in the spring as they burst with wildflowers at their peak.” Others pointed out access to whitewater rafting, hiking and the dramatic mountain backdrop as reasons Gatlinburg has become a hotspot. It is truly a beautiful mountain town filled with charm, history and nature. As a top tourist destination we believe the Gatlinburg area is one of the best places in America to consider purchasing an investment property.

There is plenty of inventory available, homes are moving and banks are lending. Is now your time to purchase that Smoky Mountain dream property? Take a look at our website to browse all that the Smoky Mountains have to offer. When the time is right our team is ready to help you turn dreams into reality.

Here Are A Few Of My Featured Gatlinburg Properties:

Travel Through Time Take a walk in the park just by stepping off of the deck. Perfectly preserved, this mountain home is just steps from the Great Smoky Mountains National Park Boundary and will take you back in time. Type: Single Family Home Location: Chalet Village Price: $179,900 Get more information >

 

Mount Leconte Views Beautiful mountain home with view, wrap around decks, updates throughout including kitchen, new appliances, quartz counter tops and glass tile back splash. Great for permanent residence or rental. Type: Single Family Home Location: Chalet Village Price: $239,900 Get more information >

 

Unparallelled View of Great Smokies!! Contemporary home with many interior updates and incredible view of ski slopes at Ober Gatlinburg and Great Smoky Mountains. Type: Single Family Home Location: Gatlinburg ,Tennessee Price: $224,900 Get more information >

 

High Above Gatlinburg: What Makes Chalet Village A Premiere Mountain Community?

Posted by Gatlin on

Last week we talked about my experience on Mt. Leconte with the annual helicopter supply drop and ended with a note about being able to see Chalet Village from that high vantage point. Today I would like to explore more facts about Chalet Village and why I think it is a great place to consider for your mountain home purchase.  One of the great advantages is being able to have a view like the one you see pictured above, but let’s take a closer look at this beautiful community above Gatlinburg.

Easily accessible from four major roadways on Ski Mountain in Gatlinburg, Tennessee is the mountain resort community of Chalet Village. Residents are close to countless opportunities available at Ober Gatlinburg Mountain Ski Resort, Ripley’s Aquarium, Dollywood, Outlet Mall shopping, Splash Country, numerous restaurants and other attractions. Many recreational options are also available at the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, which lies adjacent to Chalet Village. It is not unusual to see people hiking, biking, rafting, fishing or enjoying any number of other activities. Chalet Village is in the center of all the fun of the eastern Tennessee mountains.

Chalet Village offers homeowners exclusive resort communities that are great for second homes, investment properties for rentals, or full-time residency. Homebuyers in Chalet Village can find older single family homes, chalets, condos or breathtaking new and luxurious log cabin homes. If you are wishing to build a custom home, lots and land are readily available and provide breathtaking views of the mountains surrounding Chalet Village.

The prestigious Chalet Village, with around 2,000 residential/rental lots, is the last community before entering the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Not only do residents enjoy breathtaking views of mountain peaks, but also spectacular views of Gatlinburg and the ski slopes at Ober Gatlinburg Mountain Ski Resort, which is located in the village. A route of the Gatlinburg Mass Transit runs over Chalet Village and makes stops within the national park.

Despite its close proximity to Gatlinburg, the community is nestled and secluded in the never-ending mass of forests for the ultimate in privacy and peacefulness. Three main sections make up Chalet Village, and these neighborhoods offer the best amenities including tennis courts, swimming pools and playgrounds. The main subdivisions of the Chalet Village area adjacent to Gatlinburg are Alpendorf, Chalet Village North and Tryolea.

Residents of Chalet Village are served by the Sevier County School System. For residents of all ages, The Arrowmont School of Arts and Crafts, established in 1945, is world-renowned for arts and crafts instruction. It is located within minutes of this charming mountain hideaway.

Set in a serene and quiet environment, yet surrounded by big city amenities and recreation, Chalet Village offers the finest choices in mountain living amidst the blue mist of the Great Smoky Mountains range. Our office is also located here in Chalet Village, give us a call anytime to explore the neighborhood and all it has to offer. With many Chalet Village homes available, you can visit our website to start your search.

Here Are A Few More Featured Chalet Village Listings:

 

Views Of The Highest Mountain Peaks
Over $24,193 rental income for 2010 & $9,956 for only 5 months of 2011! At the very top of Gatlinburg at around 3200ft in elevation sits this gem of a cabin along the boundary line of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Type: Single Family Home
Location: Chalet Village
Price: $399,900
Get more information >

 

Wide Open Spaces
Dances With Bears is a spacious chalet with soaring ceilings and an open floor plan.
Type: Single Family Home
Location: Chalet Village
Price: $179,900
Get more information >

 

Everything You Are Looking For
You will find all the features you are looking for right here in Creekside Serenade. Make this one your personal mountain retreat or your personal income producer. Consistent rental income & tons of amenities!
Type: Single Family Home
Location: Chalet Village
Price: $205,000
Get more information >

 

 

Are Short Sales The Best Way to Get A Great Deal On Smoky Mountain Real Estate?

Posted by Gatlin on

As we have all watched the national housing market work through difficult times in the last few years many have realized it to be a good time to buy. With mortgage rates at all time lows and a wide variety of inventory we agree that it is a great time to consider purchasing. There has been a lot of buzz that purchasing a short sale home is the best avenue for getting a deal. Although it is possible to get a great deal on a short sale, we believe there are numerous other avenues to finding a great home at a great price. Let’s explore some common questions and answers about short sales.

What is a short sale? A short sale occurs when the current owner of a home is negotiating with their current lender to accept less than the full amount of what is owed on their mortgage as a payoff. This gives homeowners the opportunity to put their home on the market at prices that may be lower than when they purchased and helps them to avoid a foreclosure if they are having trouble making their monthly mortgage payments.

Are short sales deeply discounted? Not in most cases. When a homeowner begins the process of negotiating a short sale with their lender the first thing they are usually told is get an offer to purchase and then we will negotiate. Often, homes will be put on the market at a lowered price to encourage offers with a disclaimer that the final price will have to be approved by the seller’s lender. Once there is an offer on the table the bank will usually request a comparative market analysis from two different agents to determine the current fair market value of the property. Most agents do price short sales at the current market value but this is not always the case. Though the seller is selling for less than they owe on the property the banks still look for offers that reflect the current value.

How long does it take for the bank to respond to an offer? This is the question with no true answer. Once you submit an offer the wait time for a response can range from thirty days to several months. There are many factors that go in to their decision-making process. They will require a large amount of financial information from the seller, the above mentioned comparative market analysis from an agent and sometimes an appraisal just to begin the approval. As they move forward other things may come in to play, such as a second mortgage or past due property taxes that will also have to be negotiated.

Will the bank or seller make repairs to the property? Not usually. In a short sale situation the bank does not own the property and cannot make repairs. Most homeowners in this situation do not have additional funds available to make repairs. In most cases a short sale property will be sold as is. We always recommend a home inspection by a qualified home inspector prior to purchase.

We still find that there are a wide variety of homes on the market that can be purchased at a great price whether they be short sales, foreclosures or  traditional listings. Sevier County Tennessee has held a reasonably stable market through 2011 and moving in to 2012. There are a lot of properties to choose from and homes are moving. In an active market with low mortgage rates available it will be easy to find your Smoky Mountain home or investment property. Take a look at our website to see all that is available in the Sevier County real estate market.

Have other questions about short sales? I am a Certified Short Sale Specialist and would love to hear from you! Call, email or post your questions on our Facebook page.

Here are a few of my featured listings:

Mountain Chalet With A View Over $20,000 rental income in 2010 & 2011! Nice spacious chalet with fantastic Mt. Leconte views. Type: Single Family Home Location: Chalet Village Price: $139,900 Get more information >

 

Hot Buy On Authentic Log Cabin Over $30,000 in rental income for both 2010 & 2011!! Soaring ceilings and three walls of glass create a dramatic feel and bring the expansive views into the living space of this modern day cabin. Type: Single Family Home Location: Pigeon Forge Price: $149,900 Get more information >

 

Wide Open Spaces Dances With Bears is a spacious chalet with soaring ceilings and an open floor plan. Type: Single Family Home Location: Chalet Village Price: $179,900 Get more information