August 2010 Residential Sales for Gatlinburg Homes and Other Tennessee Smoky Mountain Communities

Posted by Gatlin on
August 2010 figures are available for Gatlinburg properties and other communities that make up the Great Smoky Mountains Association of Realtors.  This data can be helpful in spotting trends.  It can also be good in timing when to list, or purchase property.  The examination of August 2010 residential sales begins with the comparision of residences sold. 

Last August (2009) there were 136 residences sold.  Residential sales include; single family, townhouses, condo’s, and co-ops.  August of 2010 dropped 14, to 122 residences sold or 10% off the 2009 August Figures.

In the category of dollar volume sold, August 2010 came in at $22,275,984.00.  This compares to August of 2009 at $22,662,581.00 or less by 2% (down $386,597.00). 

Comparison of average cost of residence sold, favors August of 2010.  August 2010 comes in at $182,590.00 vs $166,637.00 for August of 2009.  This year’s August is up by $15,953.00 or 10% higher.

Active listings sees August of 2010 also leading at 4,083 or 596 more (17% increase).

Long term analysis is needed for accurately determining market trends.  However, some of this market data can be helpful.  Total residences sold, dollar volume sold, and average price per residence sold, may all be sorting out , after the impact of the federal stimulus ended.  Intervention by congress tends to muddy up the waters of the market.  It can take some time for true market trends to clearly reveal themselves, after an artificial stimulus ends.  Data suggests that the first-time homebuyer tax credit certainly fired up the lower-priced entry level of the residential market.  Number of homes sold, total dollar volume, and average residential price were all influenced by the stimulus.  An accurate assessment may not be possible in these categories for some time.  It does appear, that even with the decrease in overall residences sold (off 10% in August 2009 vs 2010), the average residence sale price is increasing and total dollar volume sold is almost even.  Currently the high end of the residential market is not as active as the entry level.  Buyers appear to be more selective and not as frenzied, as they were before the market peak.  With mortgage interest  rates low, and active lisings up, this is a great time to find a dream property.  Prices appear to be stabilizing, yet they are off their peak.  You can test the market, searching out properties in your own free time 24/7. Simply go to our website, search.smokymountainhomesnow.com. You can set up search criteria that exclusively pinpoints your own real estate needs.  This saves you time by providing only those properties that match what you desire.  It only takes a little investment of time to get started on your search.  Start today to find your Smokies dream property.

Here are a Few of My Current Listings:

Authentic Log Cabin/Great Rental Income
Authentic log cabin with fantastic rental history. 2 bedroom & bathroom suites each with total privacy.Amenities include game room,outdoor hot tub,on site pool and is located in the desirable Arts and Craft District to name a few.
Type: Single Family Home
Location: Gatlinburg,Tennessee
Price: $159,900
Get more information >
Pigeon River Right Outside Your Door!
This remodeled riverfront home is a sure to please. With the calming sounds of the Pigeon River right outside your door this completely remodeled home complete with sauna and hot tub are sure to take the stress away!
Type: Single Family Home
Location: Gatlinburg ,Tennessee
Price: $329,900
Get more information >
11 Bedroom- Smoky Mountain Stunner!
This 11BD/11.5BA mountain top home is designed with hardwood floors, high quality furnishings and antique decor throughout. A stunning handcrafted cedar staircase, sunroom w/large swim spa, sauna, media room, over 2500 sq ft of decking to enjoy the view!
Type: Single Family Home
Location: Gatlinburg ,Tennessee
Price: $1,475,000
Get more information >

Homes in Gatlinburg and Across the Nation See Mixed Results in July 2010

Posted by Gatlin on

Smoky Mountain real estate follows general property trends like much of the nation.  The July 2010 numbers from the National Association of Realtors in Washington, D.C. reveal some interesting results.  July 2010 figures for existing-home sales were substantially lower by 27.2% from June of 2010 and were off 25.5% compared to July of 2009.  The July 2010 3.83 million units sold is at a level equal to 1999, when existing home sales records began.  Existing home sales represents finalized transactions on; single family homes, townhouses, condominiums and co-ops.  Single family homes have typically made up a majority of the existing-home sales.  However, single family house sales are at lower levels not seen since May of 1995. 

Lawrence Yun, NAR’s chief economist, had predicted this soft period in existing home sales.  He expected the rush for the home buyer tax credit, that ended in April, would create this lull .  The Chief Economist expects the soft pace in existing home sales is probably going to continue through September of this year.  Yun is optimistic that housing affordability, combined with very low mortgage interest rates, could boost home sales later on.  The real key in a healthy housing market remains with the creation of jobs throughout our economy.  If serious job creation occurs, the existing-homes sales will increase.

However, there is encouraging news in single-family existing home prices.  The median price for a single-family home was $183,400 in July 2010.  This median price was up 0.9% from a year ago.  Across the county 11 out of 19 metropolitan statistical areas saw increases in home prices.  This price increase occurred even when the overall sales figures were declining.  If you are interested in buying or selling property in the Smokies, the Jason White Team can help.  As a buyer, you can start your search online.  Our website allows you to set parameters specific to your personal search.  Begin now to find that ideal property and utilize some very low mortgage rates.

Here are a Couple of My Latest Listings:

Fantastic Mountain View & One Level!
Want one level living and great mountain views? This home is for you! Private, level ground with yard and southern exposure not to mention the shady covered front porch and sunny open deck with hot tub.
Type: Single Family Home
Location: Gatlinburg, Tennessee
Price: $179,900
Get more information >
Premier View of Smoky Mountains!
Condo with sought after mountain views and 3 bedroom plan. Indoor and outdoor pools, hot tubs and saunas and really close to the Great Smoky Mountain Nat’l Park and ski resort.
Type: Condo
Location: Gatlinburg, Tennessee
Price: $115,000
Get more information >

As Summer’s Inferno Begins to Ease, Will Smoky Mountain Real Estate Heat Up?

Posted by Gatlin on

Homes in Gatlinburg and property sales across the area, often mimic the activity of our local festivals.  It will be interesting to see if Smoky Mountain real estate increases in property sales as we progress into fall.  It seems that most of the world has been resting from one of the hottest summers on record.  Temperatures in East Tennessee have only recently declined from their record heat.  This temperature easing coincided with the beginning of another school year.  The resumption of school sessions reminds us that autumn is only weeks away.  These mountains of East Tennessee are a center of local festivals and community activities that really pick up momentum as the year moves into fall.  With the weather cooling to a more universally accepted range of temperature, people seem to venture out of air conditioned comfort and explore this area in greater numbers.  The beauty of this area seems enhanced, when crossing a parking lot no longer feels like a trek across a recent Hawaiian lava flow.

This week’s blog will hopefully bring you out of your air-conditioned lair, Wherever it is located and entice you to come explore the “Wonders of Autumn in the Smokies”.  Fall brings great harvest festivals all across the area.  Beginning August 1st through November 20th there is a Gatlinburg Farmers Market held each Saturday from 8:00 to 11:30 am at 705 East Parkway in the Alamo Steakhouse parking lot.  It allows visitors to stock their kitchens with healthy local food to supplement all the fun restaurant dining the area also offers.  September 25th and 26th will be the 11th Annual Smoky Mountain Trout Tournament.  Avid anglers can get details by phone or online.  “Fall Colors in the Smoky Mountains” began August 10th and runs until November 15th.  Mother Nature works with the area’s biodiversity and elevation to provide an on going display of color that varies daily, within a multitude of micro climates across the region.  The Smoky Mountain Harvest Festival kicks off September 1st running through October 31st.  It contains numerous activities, but the art shows and Craftsmen’s Fairs are a delight for all ages.  Sprinkled into the mix is the “13th Annual Taste of Autumn.  This is a fundraiser for the United Way of Sevier County.  It allows participants to sample fare from some of the area’s fine restaurants and it allows vendors to showcase their culinary expertise.  Please realize that this blog does not begin to explore the vast array of fun local activities.  Go online to tap the multitude of options available to visitors. 

You might also want to consider purchasing property in the Smokies.  The opportunities for real estate in this area are as vast, as the possible ways to enjoy a visit to our area.  Go online and set your parameters on the Jason White Team website.  You can control your property search from your own home.  When you are ready to view or finalize in person, our expert staff is here to assist you.  Begin today to find your dream property.

Click here for a Few of My Latest Listings:

Fantastic Mountain Views and Private!
The private location and awesome mountain views make this home a winner. It is on a level lot with level parking and side yard, 3 mi to Gatlinburg so close to everything, open floor plan with 4 master suites which is always desirable for privacy and space
Type: Single Family Home
Location: Gatlinburg ,Tennessee
Price: $389,900
Get more information >
Take tram to Gatlinburg from this home!
Walk to Ober Gatlinburg Ski Resort or Community Pool. Updated, private and mountain views! Great investment property or personal home!
Type: Single Family Home
Location: Gatlinburg ,Tennessee
Price: $149,900
Get more information >
Heritage Log Home w/ Views of Mt LeConte
This beautifully built Heritage Log Home in prestigious Chalet Village has great views of Mt. LeConte. Private yet close to downtown shopping and dining. Three master suites for privacy and on a open lot with level parking.
Type: Single Family Home
Location: Gatlinburg ,Tennessee
Price: $374,900
Get more information >

Adjustment to the July 2010 Sales of Smoky Mountain Homes

Posted by Gatlin on
 

An apology to my blog readers on my report about July 2010’s Gatlinburg real estate and other area property sales.  I pulled data from our Great Smoky Mountain Association of Realtors to put in the blog.  The July 2010 residential sales figures looked rather robust in several catagories. However, I put the figures into my 8/4/10 newsletter/blog.  A short time later, I learned that the data included some large commercial transactions in those residential numbers.  Obviously, this corrupted the stats, so here are the corrected figures. 

July 2010 “Total Residences” sold was 121 vs July 2009 at 145.  This was a decrease of 24 residences or 17% less over July of last year.  These residential figures include; single family homes, condos, townhomes, and co-ops. 

“Total dollar volume” sold and the “average residential sale” were the 2 categories most impacted by the inclusion of the commercial properties.  July 2010 “Dollar Volume Sold” was $18,941,603.  The July 2009 Dollar Volume Sold was $25,725,551.  This July was off by $6,783,948 for a decrease of 26% from July 2009.

All of these numbers lead us to an”Average Residence Sold” at $156,542 in July 2010.  This is less than July 2009’s average sale at $177,418.  The average sale is down $20,876 or a 12% decrease from July of 2009.

The category of “Active Listings” in residences comes in as a winner in July 2010.  This July’s active listings was 4,119 vs. 3,523 for July of 2009.  This leaves last month with 596 more residences listed or a 17% increase. 

Behind these figures, the property market is revealing itself.  Without the huge commercial properties in the mix, the real estate market looks different than my August 4th blog reported.  Smokies real estate is in transition.  The market place is still searching for balance after the end of the federal stimulus. The revised figures do not currently show a pronounced shift toward higher priced homes. Recent activity appears to be focused on the lower priced properties.  However, with active listings on the increase there is a great selection for buyers.  This combined with low mortgage rates, could make this an ideal time to purchase your property in the Smokies.  Click on our website today to get started on your search with the Jason White Team.

Here are a Few of My Current Listings:

1.3 acre w/ Spectacular Mountain Views
Quiet living on 1.3 acres with phenomenal MT Leconte and Smoky Mountain views and lots of level parking. 5 Private suites, with loft and game room located on cul-de-sac. Plus two huge decks to enjoy the incredible views of the mountains.
Type: Single Family Home
Location: Gatlinburg ,Tennessee
Price: $449,000
Get more information >
Overlooking Stream in Gatlinburg Condo
This conveniently located condo is only 1.5m from downtown Gatlinburg’s shopping and dining. Even has a woodburning fireplace and balcony to enjoy the beautiful mountain stream.
Type: Condo
Location: Gatlinburg ,Tennessee
Price: $83,500
Get more information >
Exquisite Lofty Mountain Retreat!!
Detail and excellent craftsmanship throughout this lofty mountain home will please even the most discriminating buyer. Complete with an outdoor living space with fireplace that overlooks Mt. LeConte views.
Type: Single Family Home
Location: Gatlinburg ,Tennessee
Price: $495,000
Get more information >

Smoky Mountain Real Estate and Gatlinburg Home Sales Mirror the U.S. Housing Market

Posted by Gatlin on

 

 Our country’s housing market, like our Smoky Mountain real estate, is still adjusting to life without stimulus money.  My news sources at the National Association of Realtors in Washington, D.C. are confirming widely predicted results for the country’s property sales.  “Pending Home Sales” tracks homes under contract, but not officially closed.  July 2010’s pending home sales index moved lower by 2.6% from June 2010.  NAR’s chief economist, Lawrence Yun had predicted this pullback in housing activity, earlier in the year.   Yun felt that the congressional extension of the homebuyer tax credit would amplify the normal spring homebuyer surge.  The stimulus incentives did bring hesitant buyers into the market.  It worked well at accelerating home purchases across the nation.  In the short term, home prices have stabilized in most areas, as inventories of homes for sale have dropped.

However, it was expected among real estate economists that this artificial acceleration of buyers into homes, would lead to a period of lower home sales, when the federal stimulus ended.  What we are seeing in the current real estate market, is the lull as the market re-adjusts.  NAR’s Yun anticipates some months of reduced home sales during this re-adjustment period.  The chief economist expects a pick-up in home sales later in the year, as long as the U.S. job market continues to improve.  In the short term, inventory of homes for sale may increase, but Yun feels pricing on homes has reached justifiable levels where they should not change meaningfully from today’s levels.  He sees some local markets across the country showing price improvement.  Mortgage interest rates are also expected to remain at these historically low levels for most of this year.  The critical factor in a strengthening U.S. housing market lies in serious job creation across the nation.  NAR’s chief economist feels employment growth is paramount to lasting improvement in the U.S. housing and real estate markets. 

It seems as though most of today’s national real estate news was expected and not surprising at all.  The current real estate environment is still favorable for investment in the East Tennessee Smokies.  Prices are off their highs.  Inventory of properties for sale offer a great selection.  Qualified buyers can obtain historically low mortgage interest rates.  The Smokies provide; a beautiful , centrally-located destination, with great climate, and a reasonable cost of living.  If you are considering a real estate investment, we have everything from; rental cabins to primary and secondary homes.  Jump on our website today and see how the Jason White Team can help you find the property you always wanted.

OPPS!! Our latest figures for the month of July are incorrect. Unfortunately, the figures included commercial and there was a very large sale in the commercial side of real estate which threw off my figures. I usually have figures for residential only. I will have the correct figures in next weeks blog.  My apologies!

Here are a Couple of My Latest Listings:

Ridgetop Property/Heart of Pigeon Forge
If you want peace and quite on top of a ridgetop with phenomenal mountain views, then this is the property for you. Located in the heart of Pigeon Forge.
Type: Single Family Home
Location: Pigeon Forge
Price: $159,900
Get more information >
Pristine Mountain Views!
Located in heart of Pigeon Forge with all the amenities this property offers a pristine mountain view as well!
Type: Single Family Home
Location: Pigeon Forge
Price: $189,900
Get more information >

Call today to view these properties or any others!  877-678-2121

July 2010 Gatlinburg Real Estate and Mountain Homes of East Tennessee

Posted by Gatlin on

Smoky Mountain real estate took positive steps in it’s move toward a market without federal stimulus.  I just received July 2010 real estate sales results from the Great Smoky Mountains Association of Realtors.  The results in various categories reveal clues to our market’s behavior.  Please keep in mind, this data covers July 2010.  Accuracy in market trends is best verified over a longer period of time, and not just 1 month.  In reviewing the GSMAR data, we should begin with number of residences sold.  This catagory includes; single family homes, condos, co-ops, and townhouses.  The current period had 111 residences sold vs 145 one year earlier.  The units sold is down by 34 or -23%.  This would seem negative until we examine other categories.

 Dollar volume sold for July of 2010 is $90,421,283 compared to $25,725,551 of July 2009.  July 2010 is up $64,695,732 or 251% higher.

Furthermore, July of 2009 saw an average sale of $177,418 per residence. Our July of 2010 average sale jumped to $814,606 for an increase of $637,188 or 359% higher.

In our final category of active listings, July 2010 has 4,058 compared to 3,545 in July of 2009.  Active listings are up 513, for a 14% increase.

In evaluating this data, some market aspects may be revealing themselves.  Currently, the federal homebuyer tax credit has expired.  This program was a powerful incentive for new homebuyers to enter the market.  In the short term, it has brought many new homebuyers into the market and it helped absorb some excess home inventory.  However, the data reveals that most of the homebuying occurred at the lower end of the market.  With the stimulus almost over (because of congressional action a few late closings may still trickle in), unbiased market activity is revealing itself. These July 2010 stats are showing that experienced homebuyers are coming off the sidelines to purchase higher priced properties. Without the large number of new homebuyers picking up lower end real estate, the “total dollar volume sold” and the “average sale price” has massively increased for July of 2010.  It is too early to be certain, but seasoned buyers could be returning to the real estate market.  These July 2010 figures seem to indicate that this activity is starting.

If you are considering East Tennessee real estate for some of your investments, begin on our website.  We have geared our site to be user-friendly, and we constantly update, to keep it current.  You set your personal search criteria, and it saves valuable time in viewing only property that meets your needs.  When the time arrives to personally view and close on your property, the experience and expertise of the Jason White Team is available to make your dream a reality.

Here are a Few of My Current Listings:

Fantastic Views With Great Rental Income
This unique one of a kind home is totally updated and is in excellent condition. The fantastic mountain view is enjoyed on the covered or sun decks. The level parking is an absolute bonus!
Type: Single Family Home
Location: Cobbly Nob
Price: $289,900
Get more information >
Spacious- Great For Entertaining!
Spacious with extraordinarily large deck to enjoy the beautiful mountain view. Fully furnished with tasteful furnishings and just around the corner from the Chalet Village Club House to enjoy swimming and tennis.
Type: Single Family Home
Location: Chalet Village
Price: $199,900
Get more information >
Great View Of Great Smoky Mountains
Live in the prestigious community of Riversong. With the Little Pigeon River close by to enjoy fishing,swimming, etc. This private 1.26 acre property is a must see with wonderful mountain views and just around the corner from the Great Smoky Mountains.
Type: Single Family Home
Location: Pittman Center
Price: $359,900
Get more information >

A View of Gatlinburg Real Estate and Smoky Mountain Homes

Posted by Gatlin on

Currently, East Tennessee’s Smoky Mountain real estate is still a great location for investment.  In this week’s blog, I want to share general trends in our current property market that make it a great place to buy or sell.  First off, the area is positioned in a beautiful, cental location.  Over 1/2 of the U.S. population lives in the eastern half of the country, within 10 hours drive of our mountains.  Our location makes for an easy car ride to visit the area.  Given current economic conditions, this is important.  In addition to a cental location, our area overflows with a natural beauty, that the earth’s creator lavished upon these mountains.  The awesome vistas are enhanced with a cornucopia of plants and animals, that add their interest into the mix.  On top of natural beauty, you add the man-made attractions that have multiplied over the years.  These amenities begin with outdoor-oriented fun like; camping, hiking, horse back riding, kayaking, and white water rafting.  They progress into amusement opportunities like: miniature golf, go carts, and thrill rides.  Then there are activities that offer simple enjoyment and relaxation.  These range from; simple to higher-end dining, hot-tubbing, boating, arts and crafts, shopping, dinner theaters, or rocking on a porch viewing the wonderous mountains.  The spectrum of the natural and man-made attractions in the Smokies are limited only by the participants.  In addition, our high elevation playground has been mostly uneffected by oil spills and hurricanes that wreak havoc on coastal, lowland locations.

Besides beauty and location, the Smokies never got crazy in the real estate bubble of recent years.  While the area’s property values increased, they never exploded like hot markets (Las Vegas).  Consequently, our properties are reasonably priced compared to other areas.  In addition to conservative values, buyers find prices off their highs.  Property taxes and other living costs are low compared to other parts of the country.

Financing of real estate has become tighter, as a consequence of preventing future real estate melt-downs.  However, qualified buyers with good credit will find mortgage rates at historic low levels.  Good financing, combined with a fine selection of properties, and stabilizing home prices could make this a great time to buy or sell real estate in the Smokies.  Start your property adventure on our user-friendly website.  When you need local, professional expertise that knows the area well, contact the Jason White Team online or by phone at 877-678-2121 and let us help you seal the deal.

Here are a Few of My Current Listings:

Nestled Among the Trees w/ Mtn View
This chalet is nestled among the trees with close access to area attractions, ski lodge, shopping and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Type: Single Family Home
Location: Chalet Village
Price: $239,900
Get more information >
Spectacular Home w/ Spectacular Views!
This spectacular custom built home offers so many unique features. Waterfall shower off master bedroom private deck, atrium green house, and includes all furniture and furnishings. Plus plenty of level parking and only one step into the cabin.
Type: Single Family Home
Location: Chalet Village
Price: $379,900
Get more information >
Quality Built Home on Private Corner Lot
Formal,custom built home on a very nice and private corner lot in beautiful neighborhood of Belle Meadows. Close to hospital and all the amenities that Sevierville has to offer.
Type: Single Family Home
Location: Sevierville,TN
Price: $297,000
Get more information >

A Look At Property Taxes for Sevier County’s Smoky Mountain Real Estate

Posted by Gatlin on

I receive many questions regarding what our property taxes are here. So this week’s blog looks at Sevier County property taxes on mountain homes.  The property tax rate is per $100 assessed value of the home. County tax for Sevier County is $1.54 per $100 assessed value. City tax per $100 assessed value is:   Sevierville is $0.31. Pigeon Forge is $0.1242, Gatlinburg is $0.1493, and Pittman Center is .77.  The ratio of assessment is 25% for residential/rental property. This applies to owner occupied homes and second homes.  See the examples below for a home assessed at $100,000 and $250,000.

                                               For Sevier County Tax
Sevier County tax is $1.54 per $100 assessed value:
$100,000 Home     25% of $100,000 = $25,000 x $1.54 = $385.00 tax paid per year
$250,000 Home     25% of $250,000 = $62,500 x $1.54 = $962.50 tax paid per year

                                                       For City Tax
Sevierville is $.31 per $100 assessed value:
$100,000 Home     25% of $100,000 = $25,000 x $.31 = $77.50 tax paid per year
$250,000 Home     25% of $250,000 = $62,500 x $.31 = $193.75 tax paid per year

Pigeon Forge is $0.1242 per $100 assessed value:
$100,000 Home     25% of $100,000 = $25,000 x $0.1242 = $31.05 tax paid per year
$250,000 Home     25% of $250,000 = $62,500 x $0.1242 = $77.63 tax paid per year

Gatlinburg is $$0.1493 per $100 assessed value:
$100,000 Home     25% of $100,000 = $25,000 x $0.1493 = $37.33 tax paid per year
$250,000 Home     25% of $250,000 = $62,500 x $0.1493 = $93.31 tax paid per year

Pittman Center is $.77 per $100 assessed value:
$100,000 Home     25% of $100,000 = $25,000 x $.77 = $192.50 tax paid per year
$250,000 Home     25% of $250,000 = $62,500 x $.77 = $481.25 tax paid per year

Plus 30% of contents for personal property tax
There is no Income Tax
Sales Tax 7%
 
Many visitors to our area find our property taxes very reasonable.  The planning and working with tourist traffic over the years has helped to develop the Sevier County infrastructure.  The influx of visitors provided a revenue stream that has assisted in sharing the costs for developing the area.  This has helped to keep costs lower for residents by maintaining reasonable local living taxes.

If you are interested in living here, or owning investment property that keeps you coming back with tax incentives, then check out the Jason White Team website.  You set your own search criteria, and view only those properties that fit your criteria. When it is time to take a personal look, our team of property professionals are here to assist you.  Contact us today to begin your Smoky Mountain property acquisition.

Here are a Few of My Latest Listings:

Estate Home on Lake Peninsula
This palatial, custom built, heirloom estate is a perfect home for entertaining or just relaxing by the waterside. Expansive views of Flat Creek(Douglas Lake) and surrounding mountain ridges. Beautiful professionally landscaped gardens.
Type: Single Family Home
Location: Douglas Lake
Price: $1,120,000
Get more information >
Updated with Private Bedroom Suites!
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: $249,900
Get more information >
Dramatic Mt LeConte View/Newly Updated!
Totally updated Chalet with dramatic Smoky Mountain (Mt LeConte)views. Level parking which is a bonus as well as within walking distance of pool and tennis courts at Owner’s Club
Type: Single Family Home
Location: Chalet Village
Price: $349,900
Get more information >

Homes For Sale in Gatlinburg and Across the Country are Adjusting

Posted by Gatlin on

Smoky Mountain Real Estate joins the rest of the country in an adjustment to life without federal stimulus, for buying houses.  The May news out of the National Association of Realtors for Pending Home Sales was totally expected.  The report for May showed the Pending Home Sales Index fell 30% from the April index reading.  This forward-oriented index tracks home purchase contracts that are signed, but the transaction is not officially closed.  The Pending Home Sales Index has proven to be a useful gauge in tracking home sales.  Trends are more accurate in longer term comparisons.  For instance, there is better accuracy in time frames year vs year, than in month to  month match-ups.  The significant drop from April to May was almost a forgone conclusion.  The extension of the “homebuyer tax credit” artificially forced hesitant homebuyers into the market.  This provided robust home sales figures for; February, March, and April of this year. When the homebuying incentive ended, activity fell off. 

NAR’s chief economist, Lawrence Yun expected this homebuyer behavior from the federal stimulus.  He is pleased that congress has extended the deadline on official closings, because approximately 180,000 buyers missed the original June 30th close date.  Unusually long closing times were caused by tighter lending qualifications, and by lengthy short sale processing.  Yun also expects June figures to be low, as the adjustment to a more natural home buying market takes effect.  The Chief Economist is pleasantly surprised, that some markets have seen increased home purchases without the federal stimulus.  Furthermore, the tax credit appears to have helped stabilize home prices.  Additional good housing news appears in a congressional renewal of the National Flood Insurance Program.

Today’s housing and real estate market is still a great place for purchasing a home or investment property.  Given the uncertainty across the world’s investments markets, Smoky Mountain real estate looks quite good.  There is ample inventory for sale and  qualified buyers will find low interest rates on mortgages.  Our mountain area is geographically beautiful, with many man-made attractions throughout the region.  Check out properties on our user-friendly web site, using your personal search criteria. Contact the Jason White Team to finalize your purchase with help from our experienced real estate professionals.

Here are a Couple of My Latest Listings:

Private Bedroom Suites w/Mountain Views!
Incredible mountain views with private bathroom suites.
Type: Single Family Home
Location: Chalet Village
Price: $269,900
Get more information >
Mountain Community w/Serene Privacy
Nestled among 13+ acres this Mountain Community offers a mountain stream, tennis courts, pool and many more amenities. This hand crafted custom log home is ideal for retirement living due to the layout.
Type: Single Family Home
Location: Gatlinburg ,Tennessee
Price: $399,000
Get more information >

A Look at June 2010 Gatlinburg Homes For Sale

Posted by Gatlin on

Gatlinburg homes sales and real estate transactions from nearby areas are reported monthly to members of the Great Smoky Mountains Association of Realtors.  The June 2010 results are out, and the comparisons to June of 2009 are complete.  This data can be useful in spotting trends and identifying local pockets of amplified sales activity. The June 2010 analysis reveals a mixed bag of results with some areas up and others down in sales.  There certainly appears to be evidence of the tax credit stimulus having an influence on residential sales.  June 2010 was the final month where qualifying homes had to close for the tax credit. The total residential results for all areas seem to indicate this stimulus influence.  Number of residences sold in June 2010 vs June 2009 is up 7% to 123.  However, total residential volume sold is down 4% to $20,619,568 for this June.  In addition, the average sale for a residence is down 9% to $167,639 for June of 2010.  All this data indicates that last minute, first time homebuyers were scrambling to qualify for the tax credit.  Their activity was the driving influence for this June’s residential sales.  Another item of interest is that the quantity of active listings is up 17% to 4,067 for June of 2010.

This material can be helpful for finding your Smoky Mountain dream property.  Current interest rates are quite low for qualified buyers.  These Great Smoky Mountain Association of Realtor results show active listings are up.  That gives today’s buyers a great selection and good mortgage interest rates which is a great combination.  You can start your Smoky Mountains property search with no commitment to go further than you want.  Simply go on our website and avail yourself to our real estate resources.  When you decide to buy that special home or property, contact us and use our expertise to purchase that special piece of Smoky Mountains real estate.

Here are a Few of My Current Listings:

Fantastic Views of Mt LeConte!!
Enjoy the fantastic views of Mt LeConte and the tram from the spacious decking of this nicely decorated cabin. Each bedroom has in suite baths as well. This is a must see!
Type: Single Family Home
Location: Gatlinburg ,Tennessee
Price: $249,900
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Outstanding Mtn Views, family retreat!!
This classic mountain chalet has spectacular mountian views and used previously as a private family retreat. High ceilings, lots of glass and 2 beautiful mountain stone fireplaces, plus lots of level parking and walking distance to community club house.
Type: Single Family Home
Location: Gatlinburg ,Tennessee
Price: $269,900
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Incredible Smoky Mountain/Valley Views!
This home is truly Above and Beyond. Even has an elevator! The mountain and valley views are worth viewing this home! Incredible log details throughout.
Type: Single Family Home
Location: Wears Valley
Price: $669,000
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