Gatlinburg Homes and Residences Across the Nation Showed Gains in September

Posted by Gatlin on October 27, 2010

Gatlinburg real estate in existing-home sales showed gains in September 2010, like the rest of the U.S. In previous blogs, we have covered the statistics for existing-home sales. This category of home sales covers; single family, townhouses, condo’s, and co-ops. It’s purpose is to track trends in the housing market for the National Association of Realtors and it’s members. Existing home sales increased 10.0% in September 2010 to 4.53 million, over August’s totals. The stats remain below the 5.60 million mark set in September 2009. Readers should note that during this period last year, buyers were rushing to qualify for the deadline of the “home buyer tax credit” that expired in November 2009.

NAR’s chief economist, Lawrence Yun, is anticipating a housing recovery. However, it could be complicated with the current foreclosure review, now impacting the country’s housing markets. Low mortgage interest rates and favorable housing affordability are assisting buyers. However, job creation in the economy and rising inventories of homes for sale, may impact the housing market into the future. Yun feels that clearing out vacant homes and mortgage delinquent residences is important for a housing recovery. Reducing home inventories especially in the deeply discounted sector of the market will improve price stability in U.S. housing. First-time buyers continue to be a force in the current home market. September revealed that 32% of purchased homes were bought by first time homebuyers.

Today’s residential market offers buyers and sellers good opportunities. Sellers need to set pricing at realistic levels and stage their property for maximum buyer appeal. Approved buyers will find attractive low interest rates on mortgages. There are also plenty of homes to consider in making a selection. Buyers can get started in their search online. Our website offers adjustable criteria to limit selection to a buyer’s specific needs. This saves everyone time and our Smokies’ property team is ready to help you finalize your purchase. Contact us today to get started.

Here are a Few of My New and Current Listings:

Lots of Upgrades and Convenient Location
Beautiful home w/lots of upgrades and convenient to shopping and restaurants in Gatlinburg. Big spacious decks with level parking and fenced in yard. Perfect home for entertaining!
Type: Single Family Home
Location: Gatlinburg ,Tennessee
Price: $189,900
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 National Park.
Type: Single Family Home
Location: Chalet Village
Price: $239,900
Get more information >

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: $235,000
Get more information >

Is a Gatlinburg Home For Sale, Your Next Purchase?

Posted by Gatlin on October 6, 2010

Today’s blog examines local residential property statistics and the status of Tennessee Smoky Mountain real estate. The source for this blog comes from the Great Smoky Mountain Association of Realtors. GSMAR is a great local association that among many duties, provides it’s members with data on sales in a variety of real estate categories. This information can often be used to predict market trends, and aid people in buying or selling their property. As we have mentioned in previous blogs, market trends are best spotted in examining large spans of time. However, year-to-date comparisons can prove helpful to determine personal timing for selling or buying investments, like real estate. As we get into these statistics, bear in mind a caveat, that bears repeating. Today’s financial markets from; real estate to intangibles, are seeking their own balance. At this stage, many areas like real estate have been artificially manipulated by government and global forces that have distorted their “free market” direction. When you view current statistics, realize that government intervention brought many first-time home buyers into the residential markets to claim their tax credit. This acceleration of home buying is bound to create a slack period, once the federal stimulus ends. This “end of stimulus” period is where we are currently. Factor this into your personal evaluation of our residential sales figures that compare 2009 to 2010 year-to-date (at the end of September 30th for each year).

In total residences sold, 2010 is leading by 119 at 1,158. This is an 11% increase.

Dollar volume sold year-to-date shows the current year down by 17% or $38,831,402.00. Sales through September 2009 were $234,825,691.00.

Average residence sold is greater last year at $226,011.00. 2010’s average residence is 25% lower or $56,759.00 less.

The 2010 category for active listings is greater by 833 (13% higher) with a total of 7,024 listings. These categories reveal that first-time home buyers and discounted foreclosure/short sales are driving forces in the stimulus era, and beyond.

Today’s residential market requires sellers to stage ,and price their property strategically to move them quickly. Qualified buyers will find ample opportunities to select great real estate. Mortgage interest rates are very low. There are numerous selections in property inventory. Prices appear to be stabilizing, but they are off their highs. The turbulence in other financial markets with; increased risk and low yields, could make a home in the Smokies, the perfect choice. Go online or call us today, to get started on an exciting adventure to find your property.

Here are a Few of My Current Listings:

Location, Location, Location/ Great View
Great location on top floor and corner unit! The mountain views are breathtaking. Amenities include pool, hot tubs, and sauna.
Type: Condo
Location: Gatlinburg ,Tennessee
Price: $99,500
Get more information >

Mountain Villa w/ Private Pool
Mountain villa with private solar-heated salt water pool and cabana on a peaceful lakefront setting. Chef’s dream kitchen and fantastic mountain views.
Type: Single Family Home
Location: Gatlinburg ,Tennessee
Price: $799,000
Get more information >

Private with Beautiful Mountain View
Plenty of community ammenities, private, yet close to town. Enjoy nature and wildlife at this tastefully furnished log cabin from three covered decks, all with mountain views. Spacious for family gatherings, with two game rooms as well as a living room.
Type: Single Family Home
Location: Pigeon Forge
Price: $325,000
Get more information >

Positive Aspects for Gatlinburg Real Estate in Today’s Economic Uncertainty

Posted by Gatlin on September 15, 2010

Explore the advantages of Smoky Mountain real estate in our current time of unknown outcomes. In preparing this blog, I drew upon my years of buying and selling East Tennessee Mountain real estate. I combined this experience with data fresh out of the National Association of Realtors. Their inspirational article was recently published (Sept 2010) and it explored positive angles in today’s property market. The NAR research reveals that the economy is finding some stability and there is growth. Despite the apparent weakness, the private sector is also creating some jobs. National confidence among consumers is low, but the confidence level has risen off the bottom. This indicates an improvement. A highlight in the current market is 30 year mortgage rates.

Qualified buyers will find these 30 year rates at very low levels. The stimulus plan for home buyers has lessened the huge inventory of homes for sale. The decrease in homes for sale has led to a stabilizing in median home prices. NAR research shows that home-price-to-income ratios are at justifiable levels with fundamentals. The article went on to forecast that NAR economists feel home prices will increase in upcoming years. The NAR material also states that delinquencies are up. However, recent loan origination’s with their tighter qualifications are currently performing well. The data from NAR concluded with the idea that our national recovery could be assisted by long-term gains coming from housing-wealth.

If we take these positive highlights from the September NAR article, they can easily integrate with an investment program to initially purchase or perhaps upgrade a property here in the Tennessee Smokies. Most stories of successful investing state that the best bargain in any investment portfolio are usually acquired when prices are off their highs and the mass of humanity is uncertain what to do. Are property prices headed lower? No one knows for certain. However, if the government keeps printing money, home prices will most likely rise because new/replacement homes will cost more in materials and labor costs. This should help drive up existing home costs. Long term recovery will definitely be linked to job creation from the private sector. Government job creation is only a temporary fix. History shows that prolonged government spending without legitimate tax revenues to back that spending, will inevitably harm the nation’s currency. If current government policies do not change, hard assets like real estate will hold value better than intangible assets. For some of these reasons, real estate could be a great buy at this time. As an added bonus, 30 year mortgage rates are quite low. You could lock in a fine property ranging from a permanent home to a vacation rental. Location is a key to property value. It is difficult to find a more convenient, beautiful area, filled with amenities, like the Smokies. Go online today and get started finding the perfect property investment for you and your family.

Here are a Few of My Current and Latest Listings:

Exceptional View and Location!
Exceptional cabin with exceptional views, amenities, and location. Fully furnished.
Type: Single Family Home
Location: Gatlinburg ,Tennessee
Price: $299,900
Get more information >

Incredible Smoky Mountain Home & Views!
Outstanding workmanship and distinctive design make this gorgeous mountain getaway 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 >

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 Nat’l Park you can hear the relaxing sounds of the Little Pigeon River from the decks.
Type: Single Family Home
Location: Gatlinburg ,Tennessee
Price: $769,900
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 National Park.
Type: Single Family Home
Location: Gatlinburg ,Tennessee
Price: $350,000
Get more information >

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

Posted by Gatlin on September 8, 2010

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 >

NAR Reveals Gatlinburg Homes For Sale and Across the Country Surged in April 2010

Posted by Gatlin on June 23, 2010

The National Association of Realtors data showed Smoky Mountains homes and existing-home sales across the nation continued their improvement in April 2010. For real estate market observers, these results were totally expected. April was the last month for buyers to sign a contract on a home to qualify for the federal homebuyer tax credit. Sales of existing-homes include; single family houses, townhomes, condo’s, and co-ops. This market analysis measures homes under contract, yet not officially closed. These transactions normally close within 1-2 months. April 2010 figures were 7.6% above March 2010 and were 22.8% above April of 2009. Chief economist, Lawrence Yun, expects some decline in sales, as the tax credit ends. However, he sees a growing buyer confidence returning to the U.S. home buying market. He feels that overall economic improvement, home buyer confidence, and home price stabilization will assist the home market in regaining it’s momentum.

NAR President, Vicki Cox Golder shares some additional observations on today’s housing market. She sees many buyers are still remaining in the market, searching for just the right home. Affordability conditions are good and Freddie Mac reports rates are still low at 5.10% on a 30 year fixed loan. Total housing inventory rose slightly in April by 0.3%, but it is 11.6% below the record set in July of 2008. The NAR President, sees buyers shifting into a “buy and stay mode”. This may be too early to view the change, but the “buy and flip” mentality may be slowly disappearing. April data shows 49% of homes were purchased by first-time homebuyers. This was up 5% from March. The national median priced home for April 2010 was $173,400. This is a 4.5% increase over the previous year. Single family median prices rose in 18 out of 20 metropolitan statistical areas across the country, with 6 of these seeing double digit increases. The Northeast led the nation in the number of existing -home sales as well as in the highest median-priced home. Here in the South, existing home sales figures were close to being in the middle of the statistical results. The Southern median price for an existing-home is $150,000 just above the Midwest at $146,400. This makes our area quite attractive for home buyers looking for value on their purchase.

All of these current trends and statistical results indicate that our real estate market is favorable for property investment. If buying a house or property in the East Tennessee Smokies is a priority, check us out today! The Jason White Team has a website geared to begin a buyer’s search for property. We have made it so user-friendly, that some may find their dream real estate totally online. We offer all the resources and expertise to turn your dream into a reality. Call us today to get started! 877-678-2121

Here are a Few of My Current Listings:

Sits on Beautiful Pigeon River!!
Located on the state’s most pristine river this is truly a one-of-a-kind property. Listen to the sounds of the river on this 2.8 ac in upscale subdivision of Riversong. This home offers a gourmet kitchen, huge game room and even a playroom for the kids.
Type: Single Family Home
Location: Pittman Center
Price: $1,195,000
Get more information >

Easy Access and Great for Large Groups
Three level chalet with big rooms and cathedral ceilings to accomodate that large group or family reunion. Bring the mountain views and outdoors in with all the glass windows. Fun awaits you with a gameroom and 3 levels of decks with hot tub.
Type: Single Family Home
Location: Gatlinburg ,Tennessee
Price: $259,900
Get more information >

Short Sale’ Great Location!!
This conveniently located home is within walking distance of Community Center, Mills Park, schools, and Gatlinburg shopping and dining. Lovely wooded setting and nice furnishings.
Type: Single Family Home
Location: Gatlinburg ,Tennessee
Price: $179,900
Get more information >

Call today to view these or any other properties!! 877-678-2121 Ask for myself or Buyer Specialist, Stephanie Huskey!

Never Underestimate Mother Nature

Posted by Gatlin on March 17, 2010

The U.S. real estate market in recent months has closely tracked our country’s weather patterns. An exceptionally cold winter with ample precipitation tends to discourage leaving a warm house. The past winter was a classic example of how humanity is still at the mercy of the forces of nature. The federal government in Washington DC even shut down as some tenacious “Northeasters” dumped heavy snow on the nation’s capital. All this cold weather and precipitation ranging from; flooding, monsoon-style rains, to freezing varieties like record snow fall has gripped most of our nation, off and on for the past several months. The consequence of these challenging weather patterns has been a slow down in shopping for real estate. The extreme weather has impacted recent trends in the Homebuilder Sentiment Index for March. Even my realty news sources at the National Association of Realtors echo this same idea.

NAR’s chief economist, Lawrence Yun addresses the issue of an abnormally severe and pro-longed winter on real estate shopping across the U.S. in his March 4th, 2010 report. Yun explains that abnormal activity must be anticipated in all markets. However, the real estate arena still has pent-up demand from buyers looking to utilize the homebuyer tax credit. With the weather improving, buyers are expected to use the tax stimulus and the first half of 2010 should be strong.

Here in the Smokies, my team and I are seeing a growing number of buyers coming to look for property. Old man winter is slowly releasing his icy grip on the weather. Each weekend seems to build with additional people coming into the area. Spring bulbs are popping up everywhere and in warm locations the daffodils are starting their bloom. It will be a little bit before the trees flower, but it is coming. If you are thinking about buying property in the Smokies in 2010, contact us on the web or by phone- 865-436-2121. We want to give each client the time they need and weekends sometimes can get busy. Help us pre-plan for your arrival. There are many ways to facilitate this process; you can pre-screen properties on our website and meet with your lenders to become pre-approved for financing. Our website allows you to create a screening filter set from your own personal wants and needs in selecting a property. Contact us at the Jason White Team to get started today on finding your property in the Great Smoky Mountains.

Here are a Couple of My Latest Listings:

Smoky Mountain Homes and Cabins Sold Year-To-Date in 2009

Posted by Gatlin on November 5, 2009

A year-to-date comparison of Smoky Mountains homes and cabins sold in 2009 can help us get a feel for real estate trends in Gatlinburg and nearby areas. I try to keep past and future clients aware of market movement in Smoky Mountain real estate. This can assist people in making a decision on when to buy or sell their property. I crunched some data that was available to me thru our local Great Smoky Mountains Association of Realtors in compiling the following comparisons.

Our first review is for residential real estate sold in the Great Smoky Mountains area for the month of October 2009. October’s total number of residences sold was 123 compared to October 2008 with 111 units sold. October ’09 saw 12 more residences sold than October last year or a 12% increase.

This October had total volume sold of $20,389,112 versus October ’08 at $23,222,284. October ’09 was $2,833,172 lower or 12% down in total volume.

This October’s average sale per residence was $165,765 opposed to $209,210 in October 2008. The average residence sold was down $43,445 or 21% smaller than last October ’08.

October ’09 active listings was 4,321 against 3,530 for October ’08. Active residential listings in October ’09 were 791 more or 22% higher than the same month in ’08.

Our second comparison is January 1st thru October 31st in these 4 parameters for 2009 vs. 2008. This year to date evaluation is often helpful. Number of residences sold in GSMAR YTD is 1,150 vs. total sold in 2008 for the same time frame of 1,242. 2009 has 92 fewer residences sold so far that 2008 or 7% less.

Total dollar volume sold in 2009 YTD in the Great Smokies is $207,966,703 compared to $239,638,614 in 2008. Total dollar volume in ’09, so far is $1,671,911 loss or lower by 13% than ’08.

The average sale for 2009 per residence is $180,841 vs. $192,946 per residence in ’08. The average price per residence sold is $12,105 less or 6% off from ’08.

The active listings in ’09 YTD are 7,924 vs. 6,701 in ’08. There are 1,223 more active listings or 18% higher this year than last.

This data gives us some possible current views on Smokies real estate. Number of residences sold, overall dollar volume, and average dollar volume sold, are down from ’08. Active listings are up which could be influences from the first-time-home-buyer tax credit. It seems that this stimulus is working, but first time buyers are focused on lower-priced homes. Other lower price influences could be from an inventory of foreclosure properties that impact the market with their fire-sale pricing. The increase in active listings could be from home owners seeking to move into an upgraded residence, but they need to sell their existing home first. In either case, buying or selling a home, there are opportunities now to do either. Mortgage rates are low and there is certainly a good inventory of new or older homes or cabins for sale in Gatlinburg or other parts of the Smoky Mountains, then contact the Jason White Team. Our web site can get you started on finding the Smoky Mountains real estate of your dreams. Click here to see our listings.

Here are a Couple of My Latest Listings

Updated with Mountain Views and Privacy
Enjoy the mountain view from your hot tub deck while watching the tram nearby. This private, updated, contemporary home is very close to downtown Gatlinburg and the Great Smoky Mountain Nat’l Park. This is a must see!
Type: Single Family Home
Location: Gatlinburg ,Tennessee
Price: $169,900
Get more information >

Private with Beautiful Mountain View
Plenty of community ammenities, private, yet close to town. Enjoy nature and wildlife at this tastefully furnished log cabin from three covered decks, all with mountain views. Spacious for family gatherings, with two game rooms as well as a living room.
Type: Single Family Home
Location: Pigeon Forge
Price: $325,000
Get more information >

Gatlinburg TN 4th Annual Smoky Mountain Tunes & Tales

Posted by Gatlin on May 29, 2009

Gatlinburg TN (http://www.miamiseasonalrental.com)

A great festival for people visiting the Smoky Mountains this year is the Gatlinburg TN 4th Annual Smoky Mountain Tunes & Tales from June 12th – August 8th.

This summer long festival inspires the past culture of the Smoky Mountains.

All through downtown Gatlinburg, Appalachian history will be on display such as clogging, historical mountain melodies, and even the sound of a dulcimer.

Also keep an eye open around 5:30 in the evening for a horse-drawn wagon which will be carrying artists to their performance areas.

For more information on this Gatlinburg community events or Gatlinburg real estate, please contact Jason White, a Gatlinburg TN real estate agent by email or 877-678-2121.

Chalet Village Vacation Properties

Posted by Gatlin on May 15, 2009

Chalet Village in Gatlinburg TN (thanks to ubin_malla on flickr.com)

Nestled in the hills of Gatlinburg, TN lies Chalet Village. This beautiful area offers fully furnished cabins and chalets to house your next corporate retreat, family vacation or reunion, or even a romantic getaway in the Smoky Mountains.

Many of these cabins and chalets offer guest fantastic view of the area and amenities such as outdoor pools and hot tubs, tennis courts, and access to up to 3 different club houses.

Of course you and your guests will want to take full advantage of Chalet Village’s great location near the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, numerous hiking, biking, and horseback riding trails, and the fantastic fishing and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Let’s not forget about the many golf courses that can challenge the golf aficionado in your family.

Jason White, a local Gatlinburg real estate agent, can provide more information to any Chalet Village vacation inquiries. Please contact him by email here or at 877-678-2121.

Mountain Top House For Sale, Gatlinburg TN

Posted by Gatlin on April 22, 2009

Mountain Top Home For Sale, Gatlinburg TN

If you are looking for the ultimate mountain house to lodge your entire family, look no further!

This 11 bedroom, 11.5 bathroom mountain top home for sale is beautiful architectural marvel complete with hardwood floors, quality furnishings, and antique decor throughout.

Handcrafted details prevail throughout this Gatlinburg home for sale, such as the cedar staircase and over 50 antique European stained glass windows.

The luxurious touches in this mountain home for sale include a sun room with a swim spa and sauna, media room, and over 2500 square feet of decking that highlight the panoramic views of the Great Smoky Mountains.

For more information about this spectacular home or other Gatlinburg real estate, please contact Smoky Mountain real estate agent, Jason White.

Tag: Gatlinburg real estate