Some Areas of Smoky Mountain Homes Are Red Hot!!

When evaluating Gatlinburg real estate for sale, or other locations within the East Tennessee Smokies, it is crucial to rely on experienced expertise.  The seasoned advise of a true professional can literally save you a lot of money when shopping for property.  This week’s blog relies on data compiled by the Great Smoky Mountains Association of Realtors.  The GSMAR material evaluates residential sales figures across the region covered by their membership.  Residential sales for this blog are composed of; single family homes, condo’s, townhouses, and co-ops.  Our resources material shows that some areas within Great Smoky Mountain Association of Realtors are way ahead of this time frame one year earlier, while other locations have seriously declined.  In some aspects of property purchase, location becomes far more critical.  For instance, if one wants a residence for rental purposes or short-term investment, then the location becomes more crucial than a long-term purchase.  Be sure to define your real estate objectives and share these with your realtor so they can help you fulfill your property goals. 

In the category of Total Residence Sold, 2011 lags 2010 year to date by 100 (959 vs 1,059) or off by 9%.

For Total Dollar Volume Sold, 2010 again leads 2011 through the end of August by 10%. 2010 is $22,801,505.00 ahead in residential dollar volume over 2011.

In Average Residence Sold, 2011 narrowly lost out to 2010 YTD by $5,962.00 or 3%.

However, in the category of Active Listings 2011 leads 2010 by 563 or 10%.

Our blogs have long emphasized that real estate sales across this great nation have been skewed by government stimulus and other forces.  With current economic challenges at work, sales are resilient.  As we stated initially some areas are ahead of 2010 in their residential sales.  Clearly define your property purchase objectives and share these with your real estate professionals.  In this way, they can assist you to maximize your dreams. Contact us today!!

Here are a Few of My New Listings:

Breathtaking Mountain Views!!!!!
Enjoy the breathtaking mountain views from this chalet. Located close to town of Gatlinburg for all you shopping and dining adventures, yet private and quiet for your relaxation. Greenbrier River and Greenbrier entrance to the Nat’l Park just minutes away
Type: Single Family Home
Location: Pittman Center, TN
Price: $339,900
Get more information >
Furnished With Incredible Mountain Views
Great Rental History-2010 of $27,121. Mountain log home located near the Arts and Crafts Community of Gatlinburg and only minutes to downtown. Three master suites, lots of windows to enjoy the great mountain views, hardwood floors, & cathedral ceilings.
Type: Single Family Home
Location: Gatlinburg ,Tennessee
Price: $239,900
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. Gravel driveway to the top of the ridge. VERY MOTIVATED SELLERS!
Type: Land
Location: Gatlinburg, Tennessee
Price: $70,000
Get more information >

Good News on Homes in Gatlinburg

If you are undecided on a Gatlinburg home for sale, then read on.  Our blog regularly brings month-end residential sales data, provided by the Great Smoky Mountain Association of Realtors.  After our latest month end comparison, we noticed that some areas within GSMAR were outperforming the overall monthly states. 

Residential Real Estate in Gatlinburg is one example of an overachieving location.  The Great Smoky Mountain Association of Realtors residential data overall for July 2011 lagged July 2010.  However, this was not true for residential sales within Gatlinburg’s boundaries for this past July.  The interesting thing about Gatlinburg Residential Sales, is that all categories were even or above the numbers for July of 2010.

 In total number of Residences Sold, July of 2011 had 1 more at 126 than July of 2010, for an increase of 1%.

The category of total Residential Dollar Volume sold was also up by 1% or $218,208.00.

The Average Median Sale was higher in July of 2011 by 8% or $13,250.00.

In number of active listings our current July exceeds July 2010 by 115 or 15%.

As an uncommitted buyer, you might feel that these increases are not large.  While this may be a valid conclusion, it does reveal that there is strength in the Gatlinburg residential market.  With many areas across the nation in decline, this is good news.  There could be serious strength revealing itself in an otherwise bearish market.  With weakness appearing in the world’s stock markets and uncertainty launching riots in overseas countries, it could be comforting to buy a residence in a stronger property market.  If you want to check out the possibilities for Gatlinburg real estate, then hop on our website.  This client-friendly tool is a perfect place to begin.  You can set your own criteria for a property search.  You proceed at your own pace in the privacy of your own current residence.  When you want to finalize your selection, contact the professionals of our team.  We stand ready to assist you with years of experience.

Here are a Few of My Current and New Listings:

OPPS! HAD THE WRONG PRICE! LOWER!
DOING GREAT ON RENTAL INCOME! Log home in Gatlinburg with private setting, extraordinary construction, and top of the line furnishing. Wall of glass, granite countertops, and hardwood floors are just a few of the features in this lovely home.
Type: Single Family Home
Location: Gatlinburg,Tennessee
Price: $239,900
Get more information >
Private Acreage with Creek Frontage/View
Private acreage with beautiful mountain view and creek frontage and waterfall. Panoramic view with easy road access. Truly a dream come true for just the right person.
Type: Land
Location: Gatlinburg ,Tennessee
Price: $149,900
Get more information >
Top Floor w/ Best Mountain Views !!
Best views in the county. Really close to the Great Smoky Mountains with direct views of large peaks and city lights of Gatlinburg. This top floor condo is furnished nicely with access to outdoor pool and indoor pool area with amenities.
Type: Condo
Location: Gatlinburg ,Tennessee
Price: $110,000

Checking the Market on Gatlinburg Homes for Sale?

Our month-end blog focuses on the current state of Smoky Mountain real estate.   These cumulative figures cover residential sales year-to-date through July 31st for 2011 vs 2010.  Our source on this data comes from the Great Smoky Mountains Association of Realtors.  Residential sales are composed of; single family homes, condos, townhomes, and co-ops.  The GSMAR numbers are helpful in choosing when to buy or sell.  They can assist in determining pricing for either side of the property sales transaction.

In the first category of Total Residences Sold, we see 2011 lagging 2010 by 96 residences.  2011 had 817 vs 913 in 2010 or 11% decrease. 

The Total Residential Dollar Volume of 2011 is lower by $20,731,912.00 or 13% less.  2011 was $134,531,002.00 compared to $155,262,914.00 in the 2010 period ending July 31st.

An Average Residential Sale in 2011 was $164,665.00 opposed to $170,058.00 in 2010.  This leaves 2010 ahead by $5,393.00 or 3% above our current year.

Our final category of comparison is in Quantity of Active Listings.  Our current year is a winner with 5,679 vs 5,135.  The margin of victory is 544 or 11%.

Throughout 2011 we have seen lower figures in a lot of categories.  It is crucial to factor in the influence of government stimulus on these numbers.  The tax credit certainly brought some buyers into the market earlier than they might have done on their own.  Our current year numbers are not radically lower than 2010.  This is good because there was no government rewards for buying in 2011.  Selection inventories are good and interest rates are not jumping up in a huge leap.  All of this makes for positive reasons to consider a home purchase. 

Check out our client-friendly web site.  You can set your own personal search criteria.  Then in your own home, at your own pace, choose the time to call the pros on the Jason White Team and seal the deal.  Begin today on your new adventure.

Here are a Few of My Current and Sold Listings:

Wonderful Family Home/Fenced Yard!!
Great family home with additional space for possible, media room, in-laws quarters, or teenage paradise. 2 car garage, fenced back yard, and close to Knoxville or Sevierville.
Type: Single Family Home
Location: Sevierville,TN
Price: $279,900
Get more information >
SOLD!!! CLOSED IN 40 DAYS FROM LIST DATE
Heirloom quality custom built two owner home in downtown Gatlinburg. Walk 5 min to many restaurants/ shops and Ober Gatlinburg Tramway. Maintance free masonry stucco so you can enjoy your vacation in the mountains. Spacious, storage, level yard, & carport
Type: Single Family Home
Location: Gatlinburg, Tennessee
Price: $289,900
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: $229,900
Get more information >

Homes in Gatlinburg and Across the Tennessee Smokies are Deals for Buyers

If you are considering Smoky Mountain real estate, now is a good time for buyers.  The inspiration for this week’s blog comes from the Great Smoky Mountain Association of Realtors. GSMAR provides it’s members with stats on property sales within the association’s area.  The data compares residential sales (single family, condos, townhouses, and co-ops).  This is a repeating theme that we have blogged about, but repetition is for emphasis.  We also utilize cumulative numbers (year-to-date) that are better in our opinion to compare yearly month ends.  The YTD figures even out “over-active” time periods possibly induced by government stimulus.  This can help spot market trends which generally reveal themselves over wider spans of time. 

In Total Residences Sold, 2011 lags 2010 by 85 total or 13% less (566 vs 651). 

In Total Residential Dollar Volume Sold, 2011 is $18,059,163.00 behind 2010 or 16% lower ($94,742,880 vs $112,802,043).

In the Average Residence Sold category, 2011 is only $5,885.00 less than 2010 or 3% lower ($167,390 vs $173,275).

In the data for Active Listings, 2011 trumps 2010 with 605 more or an increase of 14% (5,052 vs 4,447).

So here is a possible scenario of what may be happening.  As 2011 progresses, we are getting further away from the influence of government stimulus. The forces of a market driven economy may be revealing themselves, at least to some degree.  The large divergence of numbers in stimulus 2010 vs non-stimulus 2011 seems to be fading.  The average residence sold is only about $6,000.00 less in 2011.  The overall number of sales and dollar volume is now close to 15% less in a stimulus-free market, while active listings continue to climb.  It could be that prices have bottomed or are close to a bottom.  There is plenty of residential inventory to choose from.  For potential buyers with cash or great credit this is a great time to buy.  You can lock in a hard asset (property) that allows you to insulate yourself from some investment “volatility”. There could always be more downside even in real estate.  However, what investment allows you to enjoy one of the earth’s most beautiful areas than property in the Smokies?

Any investment requires personal research and due dilligence.  If you feel that real estate in the Tennessee Smokies provides benefits, as well as investment potential then surf our website at your convenience.  We geared everything to make your property search as easy and fun as possible.  Begin today and find your dream.

Here are a Few of My Latest Listings:

Totally Furnished w/ Screened Porch!
Full furnished with very nice decor. Covered screened hot tub deck for relaxing while enjoying the mountain view. Stone F/P in the living room and stainless steel appli in the well designed kitchen.
Type: Single Family Home
Location: Pigeon Forge
Price: $234,900
Get more information >
Level Ridge Top w/ Amazing Mtn Views!
Level ridge top property with amazing mountain views to enjoy from the wall of glass in the open great room. 2 private bedroom suites, one on each level. Tongue and groove throughout. Even a community pool to enjoy on those hot days.
Type: Single Family Home
Location: Gatlinburg, Tennessee
Price: $219,900
Get more information >
Fully Furnished Log Cabin!!
Fully furnished with beautiful decor. Soaring ceilings with lots of windows, log look with all wood inside including hardwood floors. Whirlpool tub, loft gameroom, hot tub are just a few amenties that make anyone’s stay more enjoyable.Great rental history
Type: Single Family Home
Location: Gatlinburg ,Tennessee
Price: $144,900
Get more information >
Private Suites, Mountain View!
This home has a large level parking area for guest and great mountain view. Large bedroom suites, beautiful mtn stone F/P in the cathedral living room and recreation room with all the amenities to make your stay enjoyable.
Type: Single Family Home
Location: Chalet Village, TN
Price: $225,000

A Perfect Time To Buy That Gatlinburg Home For Sale?

Gatlinburg properties, like other areas of the Smokies are flashing a potential time to purchase signal.  Data from the Great Smoky Mountains Association of Realtors is revealing possible buy indicators.  We will take a look at their figures which compare residential sales for April 2011 vs April 2010.  Remember residential numbers include; single family homes, condos, townhouses, and co-ops.  Another important item to remember is that last year’s marketplace was impacted in a major way by the government stimulus for housing. 

In Total Residences Sold, April 2011 had 108 vs. April 2010 with 151.  Last year with the stimulus it was 28% better or 43 units more .

In Dollar Volume Sold, April 2011 has $16,742,437 compared to April 2010 with $25,818,457.  Last April was $9,076,020 higher or 35% more.

In Average Price Per Residence Sold, April 2011 was $155,023.  April 2010 was $170,983.  Again 2010 was greater by 9% or $15,960.

In Active Listings, April 2011 is at 3,474, while April of 2010 was at 3,148.  Our current April is up 326 listings or 10% more.

With an interpretation of data, it is critical to factor in government or other outside interference in the market.  In addition to serious government stimulation, we must also consider our weather.  We spoke about this in earlier blogs, but it merits repeating.  Most of the east coast including our Tennessee mountains had an exceptionally long, cold, and snowy winter.  Most potential property buyers are not inclined to go driving around looking for real estate when the weather turns nasty.

However, this past April is definitely down from April of 2010 in all categories except active listings.  The current market seems to favor property buyers.  Prices and sold homes are down along with the average price.  Active listings are up.  These factors tend to help buyers over sellers. When you view this, along with the reasonable price of mortgage rates, now could be a great time to buy.

Check out our website and begin your property search.  Set your own parameters and search criteria.  Check out property at home, online, at your own pace.  Our expert team is ready to assist when we are needed.

Here are a Few of My Latest and Current Listings:

Custom Log/Incredible Rental Income
Wow!! The rental income of $40,262 in 2010 for this 1 bedroom/1bath makes this custom built log home a fantastic opportunity for someone. 3 levels w/fantastic Smoky Mountain views, private on top of a mountain, but only 5 mins to the center of Gatlinburg.
Type: Single Family Home
Location: Gatlinburg ,Tennessee
Price: $199,900
Get more information >
Log w/ Amazing Views of the Smokies
This log home has a fantastic rental history of $43,270 gross income in 2010 as well as a fantastic view of Mt LeConte and the Smokies. Privacy is a bonus while enjoying the covered wrap around decks. Great floor plan w/2 bedrooms and 2 baths on each flr.
Type: Single Family Home
Location: Gatlinburg, Tennessee
Price: $339,900
Get more information >
Furnished w/ Strong Rental Income!
This property is generating a strong rental income in 2010 of $47,313! Massive open floor plan with cathedral ceilings. Features include movie projector,bar w/fridge,hardwood floors,gourmet kitchen and much more.
Type: Single Family Home
Location: Gatlinburg ,Tennessee
Price: $299,900
Get more information >

Looking at Homes in Gatlinburg?

Mountain homes across the Smokies are great as an investment, or a vacation home.  This sector of the real estate market experienced good results in 2010.  A March 30th, 2011 article details the research on this material.  The data was compiled and published by the National Association of Realtors.  The article states that in 2010, vacation and investment home sales held their position in the property market place.  Vacation homes accounted for 10% of the market.  Investment home sales were 17% of the total homes sold.  These numbers are intriguing, because sales volume for the overall market declined from 2009.

This news is quite significant for a number of reasons.  The most important factor is that credit in the housing market is tight.  To avoid another bubble with bad mortgages, the federal government has cranked down the screws on easy lending.  This makes it tougher to qualify for financing.  Investment and vacation homes, have even more stringent lending guidelines.  All cash purchases make up a significant percentage of investment/vacation homes.  The buyers of the second home market are savy.  Foreclosures or discounted property made up a greater percentage than primary home buyers.  The median price for this “non-primary” home market is significantly below prices for primary homes.  It would appear that many investors are purchasing second homes as investment.  These homes preserve the value of hard-earned dollars, provide a great place to enjoy, and avoid the roller coaster ride of the stock markets.

If you are contemplating a second home for vacations, or investment, consider the Smokies.  This area is in the leading quadrant of the nation for secondary home purchases.  Our website provides a perfect springboard to begin your dive into investment property.  Contact us today to get started.

Here are a Few of My Current Listings:

Excellent Views /Architectural Icon!
This commanding architectural icon is an award winning design. Fantastic floor plan, quality contruction, outrageous mountain views from all rooms, gas generator, lots or level parking and 5 master suites all with their own screened in porch. Must see!
Type: Single Family Home
Location: Chalet Village
Price: $990,000
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: $99,900
Get more information >
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 Nat’l Park.
Type: Single Family Home
Location: Chalet Village
Price: $229,000
Get more information >

February Real Estate Comparison Report for Smoky Mountain Homes

Monthly year-to-year comparisons can be useful in evaluating the value in a Gatlinburg home or other East Tennessee property.  These statistical reviews can offer insights into trends and potential future direction.  For this reason, we like to offer our readers a look at data compiled by the Great Smoky Mountains Association of Realtors.  Before we get into this material, it is important for new readers to view the data with several facts in mind.  First, this data is not entirely the work of free market action.  Early last year, we had  heavy real estate activity stimulated by serious government tax incentives.  So when you compare early 2010 to early 2011 keep this in mind.

In Total Residences Sold, 2011 has 68 sold, while 2010 had 124 sold.  The difference is 56 less for our current year or 45% lower.

In Dollar Volume Sold, 2011 has $11,009,476.00, while 2010 had $23,345,043.00. 2011 was 53% less ($12,335,567.00 lower in volume).

In Average Price Per Residence Sold, 2011’s average is $161,904.00, while 2010’s average is $188,266.00. The current year is $26,362.00 lower or 14% less than 2010.

In the category of Active Listings 2011 has 3,304 listings, while 2010 had 3,004 listings. Currently we have 305 more listings for an increase of 10%.

Comparing these two years is tough because the government intervention has biased the data.  However, some items are still true.  Residences are still selling, listings are up, and the lower end of the market appears more active.

Here at the Jason White Team, we work with real estate buyers and sellers.  Our website has tips for both parties.  We like to prepare our clients as best we can for the current market conditions.  Be sure to log on today and see how we earn our position as an industry leader in property sales for the Tennessee Smokies.

Here are a Few of My New and Current Listings:

Awesome Views and Beautifully Decorated!
Wow!! The Mountain Views! This cabin is loaded with decks so you can enjoy the beautiful scenery. Fully furnished with den/media room, plus recreation room for entertaining. Sit by the fire on a cool evening. This is a must see!
Type: Single Family Home
Location: Pigeon Forge
Price: $229,900
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: $289,900
Get more information >
Mountain Villa w/ Private Pool
Mountain villa with private solar-heated salt water pool and cabana on a peaceful lake front setting. Chef’s dream kitchen and fantastic mountain views.
Type: Single Family Home
Location: Gatlinburg ,Tennessee
Price: $795,000
Get more information >

National Trends Often Influence Gatlinburg Real Estate

East Tennessee mountain homes sometimes follow general market trends of the nation.  In a Wall Street Journal article from earlier in February 2011, there is evidence that cash buyers are generating serious activity in real estate across the country.  A lot of the transactions are in seriously depressed markets. The author of this article feels that this action could be signaling a bottom or near-bottom in the property market.  As an example; last year in Miami-Fort Lauderdale, cash buyers accounted for over 50% of sales vs. 13% of buys in the 4th quarter of 2006.  Phoenix cash buyers were 42% in 2010. This was 3 times the cash purchases in 2008.  Market analysts are optimistic that a renewed vigor is returning to the nation’s property markets.  The increase of cash buyers can be good and bad.  The positive side of cash purchases is they are quick and easy transactions without the lenders involved.  The other side of cash purchases is that they are bargain driven.  If someone is plunking down a chunk of cash, they want a deal.  Sometimes the sellers are taking a beating especially in the country’s most depressed property markets. 

The Tennessee Smokies was never an out-of-control, high-flyer market.  We were much more conservative, unlike areas in California, Florida, Nevada, and Arizona.  Our market has remained healthier than most, in the recent decline.  If you are a cash buyer on a property search in the Smokies, there are still plenty of bargains available.  For those of you who wish to finance, getting pre-approved by your lender will give you the ability to move quickly, like a cash buyer.  Contact the Jason White Team today at 877-678-2121 to get started on your new and exciting search for property.

Here are a Few of My Latest Listings:

Fantastic Rental Income & Mtn View!
Incredible furnished rental with fantastic Mt LeConte view. Lots of decks w/hot tub to enjoy the view. Bedroom suites with recreation room and kitchenette for entertaining. Lots of room for large groups. Sleeps 18.
Type: Single Family Home
Location: Sevierville,TN
Price: $489,900
Get more information >
Close to Everything w/ Mtn View!
Close to everything including shopping,dining, etc. in Gatlinburg. Club house with pool and tennis courts close by as well. Green space/unbuildable lot across the street to insure privacy comes w/house. Great for detached garage!
Type: Single Family Home
Location: Chalet Village
Price: $249,900
Get more information >
Pre-Approved Short Sale! Mtn Views!!
Pre-approved short sales with an incredible view of Mt.LeConte. Fantastic log home with private setting! Many, many features including home theatre and private bath for each bedroom. Wow! Don’t miss this one!
Type: Single Family Home
Location: Gatlinburg ,Tennessee
Price: $379,900
Get more information >

A January Smoky Mountains Homes’ Sales Comparison

It can be helpful when shopping for mountain homes, to evaluate sales figures year vs. year.  Our blog for this week takes a look at sales data compiled by the Great Smoky Mountains Association of Realtors.  Their figures compare January of 2010, to January of 2011 in residential sales.  Please remember, that residential sales is made up of; single family homes, condominiums, townhouses, and co-ops.  It is also important to factor in that January of 2010, home sales were activated by the federal home buyer stimulus program.  So we are definitely not evaluating two free market time frames. 

In the category of Total Residences Sold, January 2011 had 83 Residences Sold while January 2010 had 91.  This current January had 8 less or a decrease of 9% from 2010. 

In the category of Total Dollar Volume Sold, January 2011 had $14,493,030.00 sold, while January 2010 had $15,461,952.00 sold.  Our current January was down $968,922.00 or a decrease of 6% from 2010.

In the category of Average Cost per Residence Sold, January 2011 had an average of $174,615.00, while January 2010 had an average of $169,912.00. January 2011 had a greater average price by $4,703.00 or 3% higher than 2010.

 

In the category of Active Listings, January 2011 has 3,369 listings, while January 2010 had 3,053 active listings.  January of 2011 had 316 more active listings or 10% more.

As we mentioned before examining these categories of comparison, 2010 figures were definitely a reason to feel good.  Our current year has no artificial stimulus driving sales or bringing buyers into the market to get a tax break.  Even without the incentives, the numbers are less than 10% different.  In addition, the average cost per residence sold is rising and there is an increase in active listings. 

All of this shows that 2011 could be a good time to buy or sell a home.  Sellers need to stage their homes and price them strategically to sell them quickly.  Qualified buyers with pre-approved financing or cash buyers are definitely in a great position for today’s real estate market.  If you are interested in property here in the East Tennessee Smokies, contact the Jason White Team at 877-678-2121. The Smoky Mountain Lifestyle website is dedicated to providing our clients with an ease of operation that caters to their individual search criteria.  Contact us today and find that property you have always wanted!

Here are a Few of My Current Listings:

Exceptional View and Location!
Exceptional cabin with exceptional views, amenities, and location. Fully furnished.
Type: Single Family Home
Location:Gatlinburg ,Tennessee
Price: $279,900
Get more information >
Incredible Smoky Mountain Home & Views!
Outstanding workmanship and distinctive design make this gorgeous mountain get away with five master suites, gourmet kitchen, HUGE rec room and magnificent,unblemished views of the Smokies a one of a kind!
Type: Single Family Home
Location:Gatlinburg ,Tennessee
Price: $799,900
Get more information >
15 Acre Mountain Lodge!!
Breathtaking views from this Mountain Lodge, on 15 acres, located in prestigious Chalet Village. 12 Master Suites all with their own whirlpool baths, LCD TV’s,king beds & private balconies w/views! Room to entertain 100 people with parking for 14 cars.
Type: Single Family Home
Location:Gatlinburg ,Tennessee
Price: $1,950,000
Get more information >

Great News for Gatlinburg Real Estate!

Cabin in the Smokies

 All areas of Smoky Mountain real estate are beneficially impacted by the source for this week’s blog.  The Wall Street Journal ran an article on January 10th, 2011 that caught my attention.  This story was titled “Market for Vacation Homes is on the Rise”.  The journalist explained that in 2010, popular vacation destinations across our nation experienced a surge of buying activity unseen since real estate peaked in 2006.  The target areas for this article focused primarily on popular ocean front locations.  Cape Cod, MA saw a  9% increase, Hilton Head, SC, increased 13.6%, Mercer Island, WA, jumped 181.8%, and Palm Beach, FL, was up 39.3% in 2010.  Usually the vacation home market is not split out from other home sales.  Even with federal stimulus, 2010 was not a stellar year overall, for real estate.  However, this data reveals that the vacation home market may be outperforming everything else.  With results buried in the general home market, it is easy to see how this got overlooked. 

National Association of Realtors’ Chief Economist, Lawrence Yun feels that the U.S. economy improved enough last year, to have wealthier families begin buying second homes.  Properties in these affluent areas are off their highs, and they offer an attractive investment option in these times of economic uncertainty.  Despite their low percentage of the overall home market, vacation homes are often high dollar.  In today’s market, this vacation home surge is good news.  However, both buyers and sellers must exercise caution.  Pricing is critical and must be evaluated to attract buyers.  Financing for buyers has been a challenge.  Big down payments and clean credit is key, or go to a cash purchase. 

While our Tennessee Smokies may not be Palm Beach, we remain a popular vacation destination for much of the nation.  The scenic beauty, central location, and multitude of man-made attractions make us a tourist magnet.  If you are interested in our area for any type of property, go on our website, or contact us directly at 877-678-2121.  We can match you up with any real estate investment that you desire. 

Here are a Few of My Current 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 >
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: $299,900
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: $349,900
Get more information >