Heading Into 2014, The Great Smoky Mountain Real Estate Market Continues to Show Slow, But Steady, Growth

The Road To Recovery

Throughout this past year, we have seen both the national and local real estate markets continue to show slow, but steady, growth on the whole. As we look at the statistics for the Great Smoky Mountain real estate market through December of this past year, we will see that these trends, particularly in this real estate market, are largely holding steady, as we now begin into a new year. Let’s now see what the numbers have to say.

In the category of Residences Sold, we see that in comparing December 2013 to that of December 2012, the number of residences sold held steady with an increase by 1% in terms of homes sold, in that 13 more homes were sold as of December 2013, as opposed to December 2012. This continues a trend of steadiness, and even very slight growth, in the real estate market as a whole, and as we look at the rest of the statistics, we will see that the market does indeed reflect a steady and slowly growing trend on balance, and we see that the market continues to show gradual, but steady, growth on the aggregate.

RESIDENCES SOLD - GRAPH 1

In the category of Residential Dollar Volume for the year, we see an increase of 7% through December of 2013, as opposed to through December in 2012. With the steadiness of the numbers as it relates to Residences Sold, the recent local and national trends of increasing home prices still continue to show that a greater dollar volume in homes are being sold, along with still continuing to show a slow and strengthening market reflective of greater confidence on the part of both buyers and sellers.

TOTAL RESIDENTIAL VOLUME - GRAPH 2

There is also continued good news for sellers in the Average Sold Price Category. In line with statistics so far for the past year, prices still show a slow, but gradual, rise of 6% in December of this year versus that of December 2012, reflecting the recent local and national trends towards gradually higher home prices. As confidence continues to grow between potential buyers and sellers in the market as a whole, we see that the trend of higher home prices will likely continue for the foreseeable future.

AVERAGE SOLD PRICE - GRAPH 3

 

In addition, available homes on the market are actually increasing in terms of inventory. Through December 2013, as opposed to December 2012, there is a slight increase by 1% of homes being listed as available on the market, or an increase of 29 more available homes on the market, in December 2013, as opposed to December 2012. We see that higher home prices, as well as the very slight increases in homes being sold, may be contributing to more people wanting to place their homes on the market, thereby causing a slight increase in available housing inventory. While it is still too early to tell if the trend will continue into 2014, there are more available homes on the market in December 2013, as opposed to one year ago, which could further indicate greater confidence on the part of those wanting to place their homes on the market.

AVAILABLE INVENTORY - GRAPH 4

 

As markets continue this gradual trend of growth locally and across the nation, these statistics, heading into 2014, are largely expected to remain steady, showing continued slow, but steady, strength and growth into the new year. Mortgage rates still remain at historically low rates, and there are still plenty of housing options to choose from, especially in the Great Smoky Mountain real estate market. Why not start your Great Smoky Mountain home search now by visiting our website, browsing our available properties, and seeing what the Smoky Mountain area has to offer for you? Let us help you make your home ownership dreams a reality today!

 

Here Are A Few of My Featured Listings:

High Chalet Condo Near Ober Gatlinburg! Contemporary, 2 BD/2 BA, well-maintained, condominium unit w/views of Ober Gatlinburg and the surrounding Smokies! Type: Single Family Home Location: Gatlinburg, Tennessee Price: $77,900 Get more information >
Unique Chalet Adjacent to Nat’l Park! The enchanting, twinkling lights of Gatlinburg far below and majestic mountain vistas are what you’ll see from this pristine 12 acre estate. Imagine having your own 530,000 acre backyard! Type: Single Family Home Location: Gatlinburg,Tennessee Price: $697,000 Get more information >
Unique Contemporary Home w/Mtn Views Come & enjoy this one of a kind, unique, contemporary home! This 5000+ sq ft, 4 BD/3 BA home is located just off the Parkway in Sevierville in a beautiful, private neighborhood! Type: Single Family Home Location: Sevierville,TN Price: $299,900 Get more information >

The Jason White Team
Century 21 Four Seasons Realty
1441 Wiley Oakley Dr
Gatlinburg, TN 37738
Toll Free: 877-678-2121
Fax: 865-436-7227
Email: jason@jasonwhiteteam.com
Website: www.gatlinburgrealestateforsale.com

Latest News from the National Association of Realtors (NAR) Shows Existing Home Sales Are At Their Highest Levels Since 2007

real_estate_contract

 

Existing-home sales increased in August and reached the highest level in six-and-a-half years, while the median price shows nine consecutive months of double-digit year-over-year increases, according to the National Association of Realtors (NAR).

Total existing home sales, which include completed transactions for single-family homes, townhomes, condominiums, and co-ops, went up by 1.7% to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 5.48 million units in August from that of 5.39 million units in July. This is also 13.2% higher than the 4.84 million units sold in August 2012, one year prior to August 2013.

Sales are at the highest pace since February 2007, when they hit 5.79 million, and have remained above year-ago levels for the past 26 months.

According to Lawrence Yun, the chief economist for NAR, “rising mortgage interest rates pushed more buyers to close deals, but monthly sales are likely to be uneven in the months ahead from several market frictions.” These could include decreasing existing home inventories, as well as more restrictive lending standards, along with the potential for higher interest rates in the long-term.

In addition, while it is unclear at this point, the ongoing government shutdown could also pose potential longer-term complications from agencies, such as FHA (Federal Housing Administration), the IRS, and others, being at least partially shutdown or closed all together. External pressures such as these also could have a longer-term impact on the market itself.

However, according to NAR President Gary Thomas, “As the equity position of most homeowners continues to improve, some who have been on the sidelines will list their home for sale,” he said. “Most of those owners also will be buying another home, but higher levels of new home construction going into 2014, combined with some reduction in demand from less favorable affordability conditions, will help to moderate price growth to more sustainable levels.”

What does this all mean for you? Right now, there are still many great properties available in the Great Smoky Mountains real market, and if you are interested in buying a new home, today is the best time for you to realize your dreams of home ownership. Please feel free to browse our available properties, and see what we can do to help you find a new home here in the Great Smoky Mountains today!

 

Here Are A Few of My Featured Listings:

Great Mountain View Consistently produces income in the high $20k range. Cabin with a view, tongue and groove throughout, wood floors, recreation room with pool table and air hockey for your enjoyment. Type: Single Family Home Location: Pigeon Forge Price: $239,900 Get more information >
Picture Perfect Log Cabin Almost $25,000 in rental income for 2012! Well built log cabin with privacy and only 5 miles to Pigeon Forge. Type: Single Family Home Location: Gatlinburg ,Tennessee Price: $219,900 Get more information >
Close Up City & Mountain Views Almost $50,000 in rental income for 2012! This is designed to be a year around home or an income producing rental. Type: Single Family Home Location: Gatlinburg ,Tennessee Price: $439,900 Get more information >


The Jason White Team
Century 21 Four Seasons Realty
1441 Wiley Oakley Dr
Gatlinburg, TN 37738
Toll Free: 877-678-2121
Fax: 865-436-7227
Email: jason@jasonwhiteteam.com
Website: www.SmokyMountainLifestyle.com

 

Come Enjoy the 38th Annual Gatlinburg Summer Craftsmen’s Fair from July 19-28, 2013!

craftsmens-fair

From July 19-28, 2013, Gatlinburg is home one of the Southeast’s most popular events – the 38th Annual Craftsmen’s Fair, which will be held starting Friday, July 19th, and goes until Sunday, July 28th, at the Gatlinburg Convention  Center, located in downtown Gatlinburg.

 

The 38th annual fair features 200 booths from artisans and craftsmen all over the United States, featuring the most unique and top quality arts and crafts. There also will be free live country and bluegrass music at the event, including Dennis Lee and Band, along with Tim Watson, “The Fiddle Man,” who will perform at 12 p.m., 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. each day of the fair.

 

The 38th Annual Craftsmen’s Fair in Gatlinburg will be 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily, except for Sunday, which is 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission for adults is $6, and children 12 and under are admitted free. The Gatlinburg Convention Center is located at Traffic Light #8 in downtown Gatlinburg. For more information, please visit http://www.craftsmenfair.com, or call (865) 436-7479.

 

Gatlinburg is home to a very unique arts and crafts community, and fairs such as the Craftsmen’s Fair, held every Summer and Fall, are highly popular and draw considerable interest to the area. In addition, these unique events are one of many reasons the Great Smoky Mountains are a great place to live or purchase an investment property. Studies continue to show that first-time homebuyers, along with looking for available properties, are also looking for a sense of place and for activities that create a greater sense of community for them. As people come to Gatlinburg to enjoy this unique event, people will also have the opportunity to explore the many properties available in the area for those looking to become a part of the many unique and special communities in and around the Great Smoky Mountains, including Gatlinburg. There are numerous home choices available, and we are here to help you through every step of your journey towards being a homeowner.

 

Here Are A Few of My Featured Listings:

3 BD/2 BA Home w/Rolling Hills This recently built 3 BD/2 BA contemporary home is located only minutes from downtown Sevierville and Dollywood in a growing subdivision. Type: Single Family Home Location: Sevierville,TN Price: $149,900 Get more information >
Chalet w/ Amazing Mtn. Views Beautiful 3 BD/3 BA Mountain Contemporary Chalet located minutes from downtown Gatlinburg and Ober Gatlinburg! Type: Single Family Home Location: Gatlinburg,Tennessee Price: $299,900 Get more information >
Beautiful Private Cabin w/City View Beautiful, private 4 Bedroom/3 Bathroom home located just below Ober Gatlinburg. Type: Single Family Home Location: Gatlinburg,Tennessee Price: $195,000 Get more information >

 

 

The Jason White Team
Century 21 Four Seasons Realty

1441 Wiley Oakley Drive
Gatlinburg, TN 37738
Toll Free: 877-678-2121
Fax: 865-436-7227
Email: jason@jasonwhiteteam.com
Website: http://www.smokymountainlifestyle.com

The National Real Estate Market Continues to Hold Steady Halfway Through 2013

Housing Recovery

 

As we now reach the halfway point in 2013, there are some very noteworthy trends that are emerging nationally that continue to show a steady real estate market nationally. As we continue into 2013, here are some of the trends that are now emerging, and will have a noteworthy impact on real estate nationally, as well as locally.

According to the latest news from CoreLogic, the first indicator of note is that U.S. home prices have jumped 12.2% in May 2013 from a year ago, the most in seven years. The increase suggests the general national housing recovery is relatvively steady, and is, in fact, slowly strengthening. In addition, on average, national residential home prices rose 2.6% in May 2013 from April 2013, which is the 15th straight month-over-month increase, as measured. In many states, including Tennessee, home prices are gradually increasing and showing a generally positive increase.

The other notable indicator shows us that, according the U.S. Commerce Department, there was an increase in home construction, by 6.8%, in terms of overall pace of homes being constructed, in May 2013, as opposed to 14.8% decline in home construction in April 2013. Based on this, while not dramatically increasing, home construction is also holding steady and even gradually increasing, as well as with home prices.

Furthermore, according to Realtor.com, May of 2013 saw median list home prices were 2.10 percent higher than April 2013 home prices. This reflected a general and gradual trend towards higher home prices as a whole, and we see that the home prices are reflecting a steady national trend towards higher home prices, as well as greater consumer demand for homes.

The basic reasons for these trends are many, but generally can be attributed to greater demand, limited numbers of homes for sale, and fewer foreclosures, as well as steady hiring in the job market and relatively low mortgage rates. Based on this data, we foresee a gradual continuation of these national trends, especially with respect to home prices and available housing inventories.

There are still many great deals on homes available as we see home prices gradually rising nationally, especially in the Great Smoky Mountain market. If you have thought about purchasing a property in the Great Smoky Mountain region, now is the time to start looking. We invite you to visit our website to browse the available properties in the area.

Here Are A Few of My Available Listings:

 

Classic Mtn. Chalet w/Mt. LeConte View This high quality classic contemporary mountain chalet features four master suites each with deck access. Fantastic peninsula lot with beautiful views of Mount LeConte. Type: Single Family Home Location: Gatlinburg,Tennessee Price: $279,900 Get more information >
Custom-Built Home on Douglas Lake Custom built home on a lake front peninsula surround by water on three sides with expansive views. Type: Single Family Home Location: Douglas Lake Price: $899,900 Get more information >
Updated & Luxurious Move in ready, recently painted & in excellent condition. Lovely patios front & rear and lawn in back, extras such as dimmable lights, upgraded light fixtures, beautiful 18 heated tile in master bath & oak flooring make the home feel special. Type: Single Family Home Location: Sevierville,TN Price: $239,900 Get more information >

First Time Home Buyer? Some Tips To Get You Started

Real-Estate-AdvisorsWith mortgage rates being at all time lows, making home loans more affordable than ever more buyers are considering their first purchase. If you are thinking of taking the leap you may be wondering where to start to locate the right home and have a smooth transaction. We would like to share some tips from the team and answers to common myths here today.

Myth 1: You have to have perfect credit to buy a home.

It is correct that the higher your credit score the more options you will have in choosing a mortgage. However, having a score in the lower ranges does not mean it is impossible to obtain a loan. If you are thinking of a purchase talking with a lender will help you to navigate your credit report and verify the loan options that are available to you.

Myth 2: You must have a 20% down payment.

Having a large down payment will lower your payments but is not always necessary. Many loan programs are available that will allow as little as a 3.5% or in some cases no down payment. Talk with your lender about options such as an FHA or Rural Development loan.

Myth 3: Buying a foreclosure will get me a huge discount.

Yes, the banks are looking to thin their inventory but they are also trying to protect their interests as well. Though some foreclosed properties are offered at lower than market value prices this is not always the case. The bank obtains a market analysis of the property and sometimes a full appraisal prior to listing it on the market and price it accordingly to see what the market will bear. In most cases the bank would prefer to lower the price in small increments until they obtain a reasonable offer rather than accept a cut rate offer.

Myth 4: The perfect home is out there if I just keep looking.

When you step into the house that is right for you for the first time you will know it. Prior to viewing homes make a list of the things that are most important to you in a home and of what things would be a deal breaker. Once you have an accepted offer we encourage you to have a home inspection which will reveal if any of your deal breaker items exist or if there are simple maintenance items that you are willing to address so that you do not lose the opportunity of owning the home that was meant for you.

Tips From The Team:

*Give yourself time to look and be flexible. With this being a busy vacation area many properties you are interested in may not be available on certain days, especially weekends. Purchasing a home is a serious investment and is worth taking a few days away from other obligations when you are ready to look. Scheduling a trip during the week instead of on a weekend will make your trip much more productive as more homes will be available and there will be less traffic to delay your day.

*The market is moving at a pretty rapid pace. It is crucial to have a mortgage pre-approval or proof of funds letter in hand when you come to look. Many sellers will not even approve a showing unless we are able to provide this ahead of time.

*All of the areas we serve offer different amenities. Know ahead of time what is most important to you about location such as views, level roads or mountainous and proximity to town. Doing this we will help us make sure we are spending your time here at homes you will love.

We hope that this information is helpful to you as you begin to pursue a new home. We invite you to begin at our website to see all that is available in the Sevier County region of The Great Smoky Mountains.

Here Are A Few Of My Featured Listings:

2 For The Price Of 1 A great opportunity to own two Chalet Village lots for the price of one. Type: Single Family Home Location: Chalet Village Price: $15,000 Get more information >
180 Degree City & Mountain Views Produced over $14k in rental income in 2012. Very private ridgetop retreat w/wraparound covered deck that has amazing 180 degree views of the mountains & city lights. Type: Single Family Home Location: Chalet Village Price: $189,900 Get more information >
A View Second To None Over $40,000 in rental income for 2012! Aptly named A View Second To None, this chalet has breathtaking views of Mt. LeConte. Located just minutes to downtown Gatlinburg & Ober Gatlinburg Ski Resort. Type: Single Family Home Location: Chalet Village Price: $269,900 Get more information >

Plenty Of Reasons To Plan A Spring Trip To The Smokies

Spring SmokiesAside from the beauty of the flowers and trees blooming and things turning green in the mountains there are numerous other reasons to plan a visit this Spring. As is customary in the area each season is celebrated with a multitude of festivals and events. Let’s take a look at a few of the upcoming choices for those looking to experience a Smoky Mountain celebration when they visit.

An always anticipated event, the season opening for Dollywood, kicks off in just a few short weeks on the 23rd with Dollywood’s Festival of Nations. This event lasts through April 22nd and this year features The Paper World Show by Mimirichi with entertainers from Ukraine. Many other acts will be performing as well. Take a journey to Ireland with Spirit Of The Dance, enjoy the Zambian Vocal Group bringing us songs from Africa and much more.

Someone in the group love to fish? Enter the Smoky Mountain Trout Tournament for a chance to win over $10,000 in cash and prizes! On April 6th & 7th visitors of all ages can enjoy getting in to the outdoors and trout fishing over 20 miles of Smoky Mountain streams. More details may be found at the event website.

Want to take a walk down memory lane? April 19-21 will be the return of the Spring Grand Rod Run. One of the all time favorite events for the region, it is a great time to visit and enjoy a metal and chrome display all the way down the Parkway. With thousands of cars and vendors from all across the nation someone is always on hand to tell the stories about these beautiful machines. There are numerous booths, demonstrations and contests to enjoy making it the perfect time to enjoy a piece of yesteryear.

The Titanic Museum will be hosting numerous events as well including a Children’s Weekend on May 11th & 12th and several events focusing on our Veterans. Things will continue on in to Summer with Dolly Parton’s 28th Annual Homecoming Parade on Friday May 10th. Very similar to other parades, this one features gorgeous floats, marching bands, horses and more. The big difference? Dolly herself leads the festivities through town! You should arrive early to get a great view as the event draws more than 50,000 visitors to the area.

All of these events throughout the year are designed to make the Sevier County region of the Great Smoky Mountains a favorite place to visit. Attracting millions of visitors each year it is also a hot spot for real estate activity. If you have dreamed of letting your mountain vacations pay for themselves why not take a look at some of the and see if a vacation rental investment or maybe even a permanent move might be right for you?

Here Are A Few Of My Featured Properties:

Custom Built Dream Home This is a well built custom one owner home on a 3/4 acre level corner lot with mountain views of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Type: Single Family Home Location: Cosby Price: $239,900 Get more information >
Large Lot Borders National Park Residential lot located within Gatlinburg city limits but borders the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Type: Land Location: Gatlinburg ,Tennessee Price: $55,000 Get more information >
Beautiful Setting On The River Consistently produces almost $40,000 gross annual income!! Once you see it you’ll never want to leave. Directly on the pristine Middle Prong of the Pigeon River, found to be the cleanest river in the state by the Tennessee Resource Defense Council. Type: Single Family Home Location: Pittman Center Price: $399,900 Get more information >

Expect Good Things For Real Estate In 2013

Housing Recovery2012 closed out with definite signs of continued market improvement. Reports and trends are pointing to these gains continuing this year. January has started at a fast pace for the local real estate market and in recent weeks we have experienced multiple offer situations and bidding wars on homes. When we look at January’s statistics next week we expect to see an increase in activity.

New home construction is reported to have accelerated to its highest rate since 2008. As existing inventory continues to move we believe we will see new home construction continue to rise. Other reports show that repairing and remodeling of existing homes has picked up as more owners are preparing their homes for the market spurred on by positive signs of recovery.

The Joint Center For Housing Studies at Harvard University released a 32 page report on January 23rd relating to improvement of the housing industry. The report shows that in most metropolitan markets home prices have steadily risen with new home construction climbing by almost 30% in 2012 and existing home sales passing the four million mark for the first time since 2007. As momentum builds in the market it is expected that the remodeling and home improvement industry will get a boost as well. The report goes in to depth about how and why that industry will see a flurry of activity and how it relates to the current real estate market conditions. You may download a full copy at their website.

In another report released this month they go on to say that even after the housing crash, as the market begins its recovery the dream of home ownership is alive and well in America. In one survey by Pew Charitable Trusts 81% of those surveyed agreed that buying a home is the best long term investment in the United States. Using information from the National Housing Survey data from 2010-2012, Drew and Herbert found that of both owners and renters 94% of people between the ages of 18 and 44 anticipate buying a home in the future. While having the desire to own a home is different from actually purchasing, we believe that as prices are still low as long as favorable mortgage conditions remain we will see a large number of buyers entering the market this year.

There are still many opportunities to purchase a residence or investment in the Great Smoky Mountains. As conditions improve we are seeing increases in inventory as more owners are moving forward with delayed plans to sell. We believe prices will continue to rise and now is the time for buyers to take advantage of still available deals and for sellers to consider getting a to determine if now is the time to put their home on the market. We are happy to help with achieving your 2013 real estate goals. Spend some time at and let us know when you are ready to begin exploring all that the Smoky Mountain market has to offer.

Here Are A Few Of My Featured Listings:

Gone With The Wind Almost $22k in rental for the first 10 months of 2012!! If you have dreamed of having a luxury chalet on top of the mountain with sweeping views of the valley, city and mountains then you have to look at this one. Type: Single Family Home Location: Chalet Village Price: $299,900 Get more information >
Add Your Own Touches Here is your opportunity to create a mountain getaway with your own unique style and personality. High quality materials and construction are a great jumping off point to add your finishing touches. Type: Single Family Home Location: Sevierville,TN Price: $112,500 Get more information >
Amazing Views & Unique Features This charming home offers a spectacular view and some really unique features. The living room has soaring ceilings, warm wood flooring and a unique see through fireplace with the dining area on the other side. Type: Single Family Home Location: Gatlinburg ,Tennessee Price: $208,700 Get more information >

Sevierville – A Great Place To Make Your Smoky Mountain Home

seviervilleNamed after John Sevier, the first governor of Tennessee, Sevierville is proud to be the eighth oldest town in the state and the largest city in the county. The city boasts a Heritage Museum, located in the historic downtown area, and a one-mile Riverwalk along the banks of the Little Pigeon River.

While capturing the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape, this modern mountain town offers a diverse selection of real estate options that is sure to please even the most discerning of tastes. Once farmland, the City of Sevierville is now an urban metropolis and suburban paradise with residential properties ranging from the cozy condo to the sprawling estate.

Sevierville was founded in 1795 and later incorporated in 1901. One of the more charming aspects of the city is the Trolley system that serves the area on two trolley routes, one extending into Pigeon Forge.  Sevierville is conveniently located near I-40 and the entrance to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the most visited park in our great nation.

Festivals abound in the eastern Tennessee mountains, and there is no better place to be than in Sevierville, with community involvement and enthusiasm showing throughout the city. A few of the festivals and events to enjoy are:

*Bloomin’ BBQ & Bluegrass Festival in May

*Smoky Mountain Harvest Festival in October

*The Annual Christmas Parade in December

*TN Smokies baseball

These are only a few of the reasons why residents love living in the great City of Sevierville. If festivals celebrating life in Sevierville are not reason enough, the vistas surrounding the city and the recreational options they provide are another reason to call Sevierville home. Residents in Sevierville can enjoy golfing, fishing in Douglas Lake, hiking on more than 650 miles of trails, and camping in the untouched forests around the city. Horseback riding and canoeing along the French Broad River are action-packed options for a great day in Sevierville. Other forms of recreation are scattered throughout the city including shopping, dining, theaters and museums, just to name a few.

Sevierville, Tennessee offers the finest choices in residential living including urban condos, rural country homesteads, private gated communities, lakefront homes, golf course homes, affordable single family houses and mountain chalets all with modern amenities and conveniences home buyers are searching for to make a house the perfect home. Sevierville has it all, and more!

Here Are A Few Of My Sevierville Area Listings:

Large Lot & Ready To Move In To Very nice neighborhood with quality homes on big lots in a scenic setting. Easy access to both Sevier County and Knox County via pretty country roads. Type: Single Family Home Location: Sevierville,TN Price: $219,900 Get more information >
Custom Built Home On The River Custom built home on the Pigeon River with year around mountain views in one of Sevierville’s most sought after neighborhoods. Type: Single Family Home Location: Sevierville,TN Price: $349,000 Get more information >
Busy Location for Office/Residential! Great, busy location ideal for commercial office site. Has a separate entrance for lower level so could be used for two businesses or in-law quarters if used for residential. Type: Office Location: Sevierville,TN Price: $249,900 Get more information >

Why Purchase In The Smoky Mountains?

Whether you are considering a permanent move, looking for an investment or a second home there are numerous reasons why the Great Smoky Mountain area is a great choice to consider. With a variety of locations, year round beauty and the inspiring mountain backdrop it is a wonderful place to call home.

Gatlinburg is a rare gem. This tiny city may very well have been lost such as many remote southern rural towns. However, the creation of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park changed the destiny of this city immediately. Restaurants and hotels sprang up rapidly to accommodate the influx of tourists coming to see the “Nation’s Most Visited National Park”. Hemmed in by mountains on all sides, Gatlinburg is never at a loss for magnificent views. Clean, rocky, boulder-strewn creeks and rivers run through the city with a beautiful zen-like quality. Wildlife such as; deer, black bear and turkey roam the area even into the city. Ober Gatlinburg gives the city the allure of being a ski resort/winter sports center. Year-round activities and festivities keep this tiny burg hopping. The topography of this location makes it easy to access the city amenities and within minutes you can escape to the seclusion of your own private cabin, chalet or condo.

The greatest appeal of Pigeon Forge is the natural surroundings that boast four distinct and mild seasons to satisfy the lifestyles of all residents and visitors alike. It is close to The Great Smoky Mountains National Park Entrance and a short drive to Cades Cove. Homes for sale in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee are reasonably priced and exceptional in value. Buyers looking to relocate or invest in a second home, will find the real estate market in Pigeon Forge to be varied in styles and amenities, offering mountain charm and modern conveniences, surrounded by the tranquility and hanging blue mist of the Great Smoky Mountains.

Located between Pigeon Forge and Townsend, Wears Valley is a peaceful and secluded setting surrounded by breathtaking mountains and within reach of the Great Smoky National Park by way of Metcalf Bottoms, its own entrance to the National Park and one of only five. Wears Valley is a prime location for investment properties, second homes for peaceful vacations, or single family homes for full-time residents. The low crime and tax rates of Sevier County, along with excellent public schools run by the Sevier County School District, are what make Wears Valley a fabulous location to own property.

These are just a few of the distinctive locations to consider in the Great Smoky Mountain region. Looking at just these three locations leaves no doubt that Sevier County is a prime location to consider a real estate purchase. All of this coupled with an improving real estate market make now a great time to start looking. We invite you to begin at our to search out the right opportunity for you.

Here Are A Few Of My Featured Listings:

Gone With The Wind Almost $22k in rental for the first 10 months of 2012!! If you have dreamed of having a luxury chalet on top of the mountain with sweeping views of the valley, city and mountains then you have to look at this one. Type: Single Family Home Location: Chalet Village Price: $299,900 Get more information >

 

Walk To The Parkway Three level log cabin in the heart of Pigeon Forge that is walking distance to the action packed Parkway and the trolley stop. Type: Single Family Home Location: Pigeon Forge Price: $199,900 Get more information >

 

87 Gently Rolling Acres Await 87 gently rolling mountain top acres with outstanding 270 degree uninterrupted panoramic views of the major peaks of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park including Mt. Cameror, Geyot, Webb, Greenbriar, and LeConte. Type: Single Family Home Location: Gatlinburg ,Tennessee Price: $1,750,000 Get more information >

 

Moving In To Winter The Smoky Mountain Market Is Still Heating Up

It’s time to take our monthly look at the Smoky Mountain area real estate statistics. Following the trend we have witnessed in previous months the market is still showing good news. Once we take a look at our usual categories for 2012 we would also like to discuss changes in the year to date 2012 vs. 2011 statistics compared to the 2011 vs. 2010 trends. There we will find signs of improvement as well.

In our first category of Total Residences Sold Through October we stick with the same upward swing we saw in September with an 18% increase over the same period in 2011.

The Total Dollar Volume Sold reflects the above numbers with a 9% increase from last year. That equates to almost a fifteen million dollar increase in volume sold.

The Average Sold Price is down 8% but still shows a 1% increase from September. We have watched this category work its way towards positive numbers throughout the year.

The time homes for sale spend on the market also continues to improve with a 3% drop from the same period last year.

The market continues to improve and we feel the following data is also important to share:

*2012 vs. 2011 total volume is up 9% compared to 2011 vs. 2010 being down 11%

*2012 vs. 2011 number of homes sold is up 18% compared to 2011 vs. 2010 being down 8%

*We started 2012 with 13% more inventory than the previous year and through October there are only 4% more homes available on the market than the same period in 2011.

We expect the numbers to continue the upward swing and feel now is the time to start looking for your Smoky Mountain home. Inventory is decreasing and homes are spending less time on the market. As this continues prices will also continue to improve. Take a look at our website to for your next purchase.

Here Are A Few Of My Featured Listings:

Log Home On Over 3 Acres Charming farmstead Appalachian style log home on over 3 beautiful wooded acres of idyllic Smoky Mountain countryside. Enjoy ridge views along with lots of hardwoods, rhododendron, mountain laurel, hemlock and dogwoods throughout the four seasons. Type: Single Family Home Location: Pittman Center Price: $159,900 Get more information >

 

Money To Be Made!!! Income potential with consistent rental history. $25,737 in 2009, $26,127 in 2010 & $20,352 in 2011. Don’t miss out on all these features! Type: Single Family Home Location: Chalet Village Price: $169,900 Get more information >

 

Great Price For Views Like This Spectacular views and luxury abound in this perfect vacation cabin high above Gatlinburg. Won’t last long with views like this! Type: Single Family Home Location: Chalet Village Price: $169,900 Get more information >