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 >

Have you considered your Gatlinburg Home for Sale?

There can be challenges for selling mountain homes or other real estate.  This week’s blog will share 7 tips for a better home closing.  The source for this material came    through the National Association of Realtors.  This valuable Trade Association shares money saving tips that benefit both buyers and sellers.  Through the years, the NAR has seen people lose out on potential savings because they felt they were done in the property sales process.  Often the entire process of selling one home and buying another can leave one baffled by all the steps that are required.  These following 7 tips could save you additional money at closing time.

Tip #1: Avoid potential hassles by contacting all utility and service providers for; shut off, or transfer to your new address on the official closing date.  Make sure automatic scheduling of; fuel oil, propane, or other items is not an unintended gift for the new buyers of your old home.  Also be sure your home insurance ends at closing, and refunds of any prepaid premium are paid to you.

Tip #2: Notify important contacts of your change of address, in advance of the closing date.  Typically you file post office changes of address paperwork, 2-4 weeks before closing.  Obviously, credit card companies, subscription personnel of publications, brokers and financial institutions, as well as friends and families should be informed of the date of the change and new address.

Tip #3: Allow enough time to select a good moving company.  If your move is long distance, evaluate what should be moved.  Weight is a critical factor.  Also, contact your insurance agent to determine the extent of coverage, during the move.

Tip #4: Double check the math on your HUD-1 Settlement Statement, the day before the closing.  Everyone is human, mistakes can occur.  Make sure your statement is correct.

Tip #5: Along with #4 review all charges on your settlement statement.  Were all discounts or promises included? Were critical deal closers omitted?  Beware of statement omissions that could set you up for legal liability later on.

Tip #6: Make sure the settlement company credits you for prepaid expenses.  These may include; property taxes, homeowner association fees, partial tanks of fuel, etc.

Tip #7; Check all accounts to be sure none of your money is being held in escrow.  It is best to get your money right away, rather than to forget about it, or have it lose value over time.

Here at the Jason White Team, we have enjoyed much success because of our great clientele.  In return, we do everything possible to help and empower our clients. From our customer geared website with it’s market oriented blogs, to our experienced personnel, we work at giving you a rewarding win/win experience in real estate.  As a buyer or seller, we earn your respect one property transaction at a time.  Contact us today, at 877-678-2121 and let us assist you in achieving your real estate goals.

Here are a Few of My Current Listings:

Two Master Suites/Spectacular Mtn View
Two master suites with spectacular mountain views of the Great Smoky Mountains and Ober Gatlinburg Ski Resort. Fully furnished for immediate enjoyment of this beautifully decorated chalet. Great for permanent residence or rental.
Type: Single Family Home
Location: Chalet Village
Price: $239,900
Get more information >
Fully Furnished and Ready for Rental
Great deal on a three level home that is fully furnished. Large bonus room that could be a theatre/bonus room.
Type: Single Family Home
Location: Chalet Village
Price: $179,900
Get more information >
Update w/ Spectacular Views of Mountains
This updated, meticulously maintained home is a beauty! Enjoy the spectacular northern view of the mountains from a level yard on one of many decks.
Type: Single Family Home
Location:Gatlinburg ,Tennessee
Price: $219,900
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 >

On the Quest for Smoky Mountain Real Estate?

Winter Stream in Great Smoky Mountains

 

Searching for a Gatlinburg home or a property in any location, requires a certain amount of preparation.  Our blog for this week zero’s in on the advance planning that buyers need to do before their home purchase.  The source for this material comes from the National Association of Realtors.  They put out an article to their members on 10 ways to prepare for home ownership  .  It offers great home buyer advice that is worth sharing.      

Home Buyers need to determine what they can afford.  This is the first step. Typically most people can buy a home that is two to three times their gross income.  The home buyers second step is to set up a wish list for the new home.  This wish list should be prioritized before the actual home search.  Step three is determining where you want to live.  Select three or more areas with neighborhoods that you like.  Factor in travel time to; work, school, recreation, and other daily activities.  Consider the quality to all facets of the area, and potential resale.  Fourth on the list of preparation is begin saving for your home purchase.  Shoot for a minimum of 20% for a down payment.  An additional 5-10% for miscellaneous closing costs will cover attorney fees, taxes, transfer fees, etc.  Getting your credit in order is the fifth item.  Request a copy of your credit report and make sure it is accurate.  If there are problems, begin immediately to get them corrected and take steps to improve your credit.     

 The first five steps we discussed take a future homeowner to the half way point in preparation.  Step six is to set up mortgage qualifications.  How large of a mortgage can you get?  Explore various options on loans like; fixed or adjustable, term length, etc.  Determine your best option and your best loan source.  The seventh item of preparation is to get pre-approved on your loan.  This requires submitting necessary documentation like; prior years’ tax forms, W-2’s, 1099’s, pay stubs, etc.  Step eight requires creativity to see if there are other potential sources of funding for the down payment.  For instance, are there any state or federal programs that offer assistance for down payment money?  Some retirement funds may be used without penalty, for some aspect of a home purchase.  The ninth step in home ownership preparation is to calculate all costs associated with owning a home.  These include; insurance, maintenance, utilities, association fees, property taxes, and future repairs.  It is best to be prepared for all aspects of the successful home owner lifestyle.  The final step is to find a realtor you can work with, and one who can truly help you. Some Realtors specialize in certain kinds of property.  Make sure they have the patience often needed for first-time buyers.  This may require getting referrals from people you know and conducting your own screening, or interview process.  Be respectful of people’s time during this selection procedure.  These ten steps will prepare any first time, or seasoned buyer for the road to owning a home.  Completing these steps certainly eliminates many of the hassles in the path to acquiring a new home.       

If you are considering any kind of home purchase here in the Tennessee Smokies, the Jason White Team can simplify your search.  Everything from our user-friendly web site, to our realtors’ expertise is geared to help both buyers and sellers alike.  Contact us today 877-678-2121, and have fun finding your home in the Tennessee Smokies!   

Here are a Few of My Current Listings: 

Surrounded by The Great Smoky Mountains!
Enjoy total privacy in one of the most picturesque settings in the area. Located in the prestigious community of Riversong and surrounded by The Great Smoky Mountains National Park. You can hear the relaxing sounds of the Little Pigeon River from the deck
Type: Single Family Home
Location: Gatlinburg ,Tennessee
Price: $769,900
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 >
Mt LeConte View w/Large Open Floor Plan
5 bedrooms all with in suite baths for privacy. Huge great room for those family gatherings and could walk to trolley to take to town or to Nat’l Park.
Type: Single Family Home
Location: Gatlinburg ,Tennessee
Price: $350,000
Get more information >

Are you a First Time Buyer Looking at a Gatlinburg Home for Sale?

Gatlinburg City Night Lights

Gatlinburg homes, like others across the nation, offer challenges to a first time home buyer.  Today’s blog explores five mistakes that novice home buyers commonly make. The source for our material came from the National Association of Realtors.  As the key trade association for real estate in the U.S., much research is conducted to advise our membership.  This material helps agents assist buyers and sellers in the potentially complex transactions of real estate exchange.  

Mistake number one is the novice buyer fails to ask enough questions of their lender.  This can lead to missing a great deal on a home.  Especially in our current home market, getting pre-qualified is crucial.  Today there is a fast pace driven by foreclosures and short sales.  Knowing what amount and whether you qualify in this tighter credit market is key.  First-time mistake number two is failing to make a quick decision.  This allows someone else to buy your house.  As previously noted, speed is the quintessential element in discount priced property.  Mistake number three is not finding the right agent.  New buyers need a representative who is patient and relates well to them.  Home buying is a huge commitment and it is critical to have a trustworthy ally on your side.  This takes much of the first time stress and fear out of the process.  The fourth common mistake is first time buyers do not make their offer look appealing to a seller.  The best deals offer a win/win for both parties.  There are often extra items that can sweeten a deal for the seller.  Often something like more time or flexibility on some aspect of the negotiation would not cost the buyer, but it could seal the deal.  The last of the five common mistakes is failing to think about resale before purchasing a home.  The U.S. average is four years living in a first time home purchase.  What might be a deal today, could become tomorrow’s nightmare, if the new home is not easily resold.  Nobody wants to tie up their capital in a home that is not easy to resell.  

Avoiding these five mistakes are important even for experienced home buyers.  The Jason White Team gears our website, and the experience of our people to help our buyers avoid these 5 potentially expensive mistakes.  We encourage buyers to work with lenders in advance.  With pre-approval you can act with confidence when a deal appears.  Also, setting up your personal search criteria on our website, allows you to focus on only those properties that match what you want. We can also send you listings daily or weekly that match your needs.  Contact us online or by phone 877-678-2121 and begin today. 

Here are a Few of My Latest and Current Listings: 

Foreclosure/ Furnished!
Foreclosure with ample parking. This property is generating a strong rental income in 2009 of $46,503! 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: $329,900
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: $109,900
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: $249,900
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 >

The 2010 Residential Summary For Smoky Mountain Real Estate

Winter in the Smokies

Our local Great Smoky Mountains Association of Realtors has compiled 2010’s residential sales through the end of the year.  These figures can be helpful in determining market trends.  The data can assist people in their timing for buying or selling real estate.  Yearly totals are for residential sales, which consist of; single family homes, condos, townhouses, and co-ops.  The summary takes in sales from 1/1/10 thru 12/31/10 and compares residential sales to the same time period in 2009. 

In the category of Total Residences Sold;  2010 had 1,588 sold, vs 2009 with 1,469 sold

2010 saw an increase of 119 or an 8% gain 

For the category of Total Dollar Volume Sold;  2010 had $266,748,392.00, vs 2009 with $259,545,334.00

2010 again saw an increase of $7,203,058.00 or a 3% gain 

In the category of Average Residential Price;  2010 was $167,978.00, vs 2009 with $176,682.00

2009’s average residence price was $8,704.00 higher leaving 2010 with a 5% decrease 

In the category of Active Listings;  2010 had 7,438 listings, vs 2009 with 6,818 listings

2010 led 2009 by 620 listings, or a 9% increase 

We can see from these statistics that 2010 saw increases in most categories.  Some of this may be due to a strengthening market, but caution is required.  The two years in this comparison were heavily influenced by government stimulus in the real estate market.  The results we see are not “free market” forces at work.  With this being said, there are positive factors in play.  People are selling their properties, as witnessed by the increase in active listings.  This makes a good selection of homes for sale.  Interest rates on mortgages are still quite low.  In addition, pricing is reasonable with competition coming from discounted foreclosures, and short sales.  All of these factors combine to offer both buyers and sellers, opportunities in the current market.  Our website and members of our sales team can provide you with resources to either purchase, or sell real estate in the East Tennessee Smokies.  Contact us today at 877-678-2121 to get started.

Here are a Few of My Latest  and Current Listings:

Fully Furnished & Close to Pigeon Forge
Conveniently located, just minutes to downtown Pigeon Forge and Walden’s Creek Riding Stables if you like horses. Fully furnished with beautiful decor overlooking the great mountain views. Great rental or permanent residence. Great rental income as well!
Type: Single Family Home
Location: Sevierville,TN
Price: $179,900
Get more information >
Fantastic Mountain Views and Private!
The private location and awesome mountain views make this home a winner. It is on a level lot, 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: $369,900
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: $139,900
Get more information >

Call us today to see these listings or any others!  877-678-2121

Changes in Tourism Can Create New Trends in Smoky Mountain Real Estate

Happy New Year From All of Us at the Jason White Team!

Choosing the perfect Gatlinburg home for sale, may shift property buyers into new options.  For this reason, we keep our readers aware of area changes that may impact purchase decisions.  Real estate is most often the largest expenditure that many people ever make.  As area representatives for property buyers and sellers, we want your decisions to be the best choices that current information will allow.        

The Jason White Team utilizes a multitude of resources, to keep our clients updated on this area’s real estate environment.  Over the holidays, I read an interesting article in our local Sevier County, Mountain Press newspaper.  Managing Editor, Bob Mayes gave a abbreviated version of a Smoky Mountain survey conducted from the Spring of 2007 through the Spring of 2008.  This year long survey was conducted by the Ackermann public relations firm out of Knoxville, TN.  The research focus of the Ackermann team was to determine, what the allure of the Smoky Mountains is to tourists.  The distillation of their studies provides some interesting results. The Ackermann research revealed that tourism is changing.  At the time of the survey, the estimate of yearly tourists visiting the area was just under 11 million.  Some of this number are day tourists, who leave home, take in various attractions, and then return home in the same day.    A sizable number of people were coming here for the first time.  The typical influx of tourists based on seasonal patterns was also shifting.  Some of this may be due to changing school schedules throughout the nation, but the area surrounding the Smokies is becoming an all year attraction.  Over 1/3 of first time visitors are staying at high end lodging, and over 1/3 of first time visitors are youngsters under 3 years old.  Many of today’s visitors are flying in, rather than driving, and many are from more affluent areas.  New attractions are bringing in double digit growth despite the challenged economy.  Another aspect to our modern tourist is that they travel all over the  area ( NC and surrounding states), rather than remain parked in their lodging.       

This article about the survey is intriguing.  It gives today’s property buyer other aspects to consider in making their purchase.  You can find more information available on our website and gain valuable insights from the experience of the Jason White Team.  Contact us today at 877-678-2121 to get started.        

Here are a Few of My Latest Listings:

A-Frame w/Serene Setting/Incredible View
Total privacy with this A Frame home with incredible mountain vista and mature native mountain laurel. Located in Gatlinburg and walking distance to community pools, tennis courts, and Ski Resort.
Type: Single Family Home
Location: Gatlinburg ,Tennessee
Price: $169,900
Get more information >
Fully Furnished/Remodeled Condo/In Town
Newly remodeled condo in the heart of Gatlinburg. Close to all the shops and dining. Fully furnished! Great rental income!
Type: Single Family Home
Location: Gatlinburg ,Tennessee
Price: $149,900
Get more information >
Fully furnished/walk to Gatlinburg!!
Walk to downtown Gatlinburg from this condo. Use as a second home or overnight rental. Fully furnished!
Type: Single Family Home
Location: Gatlinburg, Tennessee
Price: $149,900
Get more

Looking to Buy Smoky Mountain Real Estate Before 2011 Closes?

Gatlinburg at Christmas Time

If you want to purchase a Gatlinburg home before this time next year, here are 5 fast track tips.  These were spelled out in some of my realty sources via Tara @ Trulia. This savvy business woman provides us with a 5 step plan to buy real estate. Her first tip is to focus on the dream of home ownership and stock pile your cash.  Avoid the trendy wardrobe upgrades and other impulse buys of the holiday season.  Nothing enhances one’s esteem and amps up net worth better, than becoming a homeowner.  The trinkets we buy at this time of year all reduce our cash reserves and they seldom become an appreciating asset, like real estate.  It takes serious cash to cover closing costs, so get started today.  Use high yield savings accounts that pull out of your paycheck, and that are not easy to pull funds out.  This keeps you focused on the prize, and avoids raiding the cookie jar for impulse buys.  Her second tip is to utilize online resources; to find the best financing, research home locations, check pricing, and find prospective agents.  You can do an awesome amount of pre-work in front of your computer, in the privacy of your current living quarters.  This briefs you on the basics, so you can finalize your search with confidence, when the opportunity presents itself.  A third point is to fine tune your credit by pulling reports on your credit score.  You can enhance your score by boosting your weaknesses in advance of applying for a home loan.  The forth focal point is to run your numbers,  and get pre-qualified, if possible.  This prevents you from buying a home that you can’t afford.  Go over monthly budgets and have all your finances in order.  This leaves you confident in knowing what you can afford.  The last area to nail down is choosing a real estate agent, and a mortgage broker.  Finding compatible, knowledgeable people you can work with, is critical for a great home purchase.   

Here at the Jason White Team we advocate this process to our clients.  We gear our website to serve prospective clients on all levels of the real estate transaction.  We think prepared clients make better decisions and this makes our job mesh with our customers expectations.  Go on our website and get started today.   

Here are a Few of My Latest and Current Listings:  

Custom Built Home w/ Fantastic Mtn Views
Custom built home, stately curb appeal, fantastic mountain view, great neighborhood in Sevierville, and vaulted ceilings throughout. Don’t miss seeing this one level living home!
Type: Single Family Home
Location: Sevierville,TN
Price: $229,900
Get more information >
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 >
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 wfireplace that overlooks Mt. LeConte views.
Type: Single Family Home
Location: Gatlinburg ,Tennessee
Price: $495,000
Get more information >

November 2010 Update on Sales of Homes in Gatlinburg and the East Tennessee Smokies

Downtown Gatlinburg all dressed up for the Holidays

Smoky Mountain real estate typically slows down as people begin their cold weather, winter hibernation.  Much of the population’s buying focus, shifts into year-end gift purchases.  Previous blogs have explored the awesome savings that careful “Black Friday” style property purchases can yield.  The November 2010 data reinforces the opportunities available in today’s East Tennessee real estate market.  However, let’s explore the figures and then draw your own conclusions. 

The following material is available to members of the Great Smoky Mountains Association of Realtors.  My bias is to compare year-to-date figures from the previous year with year-to-date numbers of the current year.  This can reveal some present market trends.

Total Residence Sold  through November 30, 2010-  120 sold vs. through November 30, 2009-  139 sold. 2010 less 19 than 2009. Down -14%.

Residential Dollar Volume Sold through November 30, 2010-  $21,105,121.00 vs. Through November 30, 2009-  $22,929,426.00.  Summary: 2010: $1,824,305.00 less or down -8%.

 

Average Sale Price through November 30, 2010-  $175,876.00 vs. through November 30, 2009-  $164,960.00.  Summary 2010: Increase $10,916.00 or up +7%.

Quantity of Active Listings through November 30, 2010-  3,755 listings vs. through November 30, 2009-  3,295 listings.  Summary 2010: Increase of 460 listings or up +14%.

As my blog readers are advised, today’s real estate markets are anything, but  free market.  Current markets are still seeking equilibrium after massive government intervention.  The homebuyer tax credits skewed data toward the low-end, first-time buyer. What savy real estate buyers know, is the following facts.  Today’s market favors qualified buyers.  Active listings are up, so there is a great selection of properties.  Mortgage interest rates are still quite low to finance.  Prices are off their highs,and there is market price competition from discounted real estate like; foreclosures and short sales.  All of these factors stack the deck in favor of today’s real estate buyer.  If you want the year-end gift that provides a multitude of dividends, go online and start your Smokies property search today.  Our website and our people are geared to provide the results you seek.

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 and swimming. 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 >