The New Year is here and we all know what that means...New Year Resolutions and goals for 2024! Most of us always set goals for being healthier and loosing weight or how to increase our income or get rid of debt but how many of home owners set goals for their homes?! If you do, well way to go! If not, I am right there with ya and here are a few different goals that you can set for your home this New Year! 

1) Work out a weekly system for keeping your house clean - Daily things that can be such as dishes always going into the dishwasher, dirty clothes in the hamper and hang up clean clothes and coats! Weekly cleaning can be made easier by keeping all cleaning supplies including gloves and cloths in one portable carrier to make each task easier. Clean from the top down i.e. wipe down cabinets counters etc and finish with sweeping and mopping. Most importantly, utilize your family members, HAHA

2) Shrink your bills - There are always to go green besides adding solar pannels to reduce your energy usage. Think of replacing light bulbs with LED bulbs. Turn lights off when your not in rooms. Turn back your A/C or heat when no one is home. Turn off your power strips. Keep computers off or in sleep mode when not in use. And hey, try composting! We do live in Asheville :) 

3) Streamline your Stuff - We just celebrated Christmas which means most of us just acquired a lot more things. Try to declutter the old items to make room for the new stuff and do it more than just this one time. Group similar items together. Use baskets to stash stuff like remotes, movies and even your kicked off shoes, they're simple and an easy fix. 

4) Clean out your cabinets & drawers - We all eventually get that junk drawer that some how just keeps getting bigger and bigger. Not to mention that cabinet with all the tupperware. 

Don't limit your goals to just these, there will always be ways to keep improving our home and making life easier at home! 

Happy New Year! 

With Christmas being RIGHT around the corner theres no better time than now to put a little list together of Fun Holiday Party Ideas. I know most of us will be hosting and if you're anything like me, you're trying finalize dinner and ingredients and figuring out just what to do with everyone. Hopefully the ideas below will be just what you needed to finish up your holiday party! 

1) Cookie Exchange - You can't go wrong with cookies

2) Holiday Karaoke - Always fun, even if singing isn't what you do best

3) White Elephant Gift Exchange - Set a limit and set some bounderies haha this one is sure to get a little crazy depending on your guests 

4) Ugly Sweater Contest or Costume Party - Embrace your cheesy Christmas spirit 

5) Christmas Crafting or Ornament Making - This is fun for both big and small 

6) Hot Chocolate Bar - Again, fun for both big ans small! Add some delicious Bailys for the adults in the group! 

Buncombe County stats are in for the month of November! And just like last month most numbers are still up. It is hard to believe that the average sales price is just over $735,000 when just last year it was only $526,856. Thats a whole 39.5% increase in just one year! Thankfully when looking at the year to date column, it's not nearly as shocking. November 2022 we were seeing an average sales price of $557,227 to now $599,242, only a 7.5% increase. 

Another number to note that is moving up is the Months of Supply of Inventory. Last year we had 2 months of supply and now this year we are creeping up to 2.6 months of supply, roughly a 30% increase. We want to see this number keep coming up, creating a more neutural market between buyers and sellers. 

For more information on the current market stats in Buncombe Coutny or the surrounding areas, don't hesitate to reach out and ask!  

Could it be?! Could it really be that we are FINALLY starting to see the interest rates for mortgage loans creep their way back down? The most recent rates are at their lowest since a couple months ago which we can all only hope that they continue to creep down and make buying a home a little more possible for everyone. Click the link below to read more about the current mortgage rates.

Realtor.com Interest Rate Low

As the vibrant colors of summer begin to fade, it's time to shift our focus to the crisp, cool days of fall. Welcoming the changing seasons involves more than just swapping out your wardrobe; it's about ensuring your home is ready for the upcoming challenges that autumn may bring. In this guide, we'll explore essential steps to prepare your home for fall, covering everything from maintaining gutters to inspecting your roof and fireplace.

1. Clean Gutters: One of the first tasks on your fall home maintenance checklist should be cleaning your gutters. Over the summer, leaves, twigs, and debris can accumulate, leading to clogs that can impede proper drainage. As the fall season brings an increase in rainfall, it's crucial to ensure that your gutters are clear to prevent water damage to your home's foundation and roof. Grab a sturdy ladder, some gloves, and a trowel, and get to work removing any blockages in your gutters.

2. Inspect Your Roof: A thorough roof inspection is essential to identify and address any issues before they become major problems. Check for loose or damaged shingles, inspect flashing around chimneys and vents, and ensure that there are no areas where water could penetrate. Addressing roof issues promptly can save you from potential leaks and costly repairs in the future. If you're uncomfortable or unsure about conducting a roof inspection yourself, consider hiring a professional roofing contractor.

3. Inspect and Clean Chimney and Fireplace: As the temperatures drop, many of us look forward to cozy evenings by the fireplace. Before you light that first fire of the season, it's crucial to inspect and clean your chimney. Over time, creosote, a highly flammable substance, can build up in the chimney, posing a fire hazard. A professional chimney sweep can remove creosote and ensure that your fireplace and chimney are in good working order. Additionally, check for any obstructions like birds' nests or debris that may have accumulated over the summer.

4. Replace Furnace Filters: With cooler temperatures comes the need to switch on your heating system. Before you do, take a moment to replace your furnace filters. Over time, filters can become clogged with dust and debris, reducing the efficiency of your heating system. Regularly replacing filters not only improves air quality but also helps your furnace operate more efficiently, potentially saving you money on energy bills.

As the leaves fall and the air becomes crisper, taking the time to prepare your home for the changing seasons is a wise investment. From cleaning gutters to inspecting your roof, chimney, and fireplace, these essential tasks will not only keep your home in top condition but also ensure a comfortable and cozy living space throughout the fall and winter months. Embrace the season with a home that's ready for whatever autumn has in store.

Its always nice to see the stats when they come out. And no one market is the same, thats for sure! In Buncombe County we can see that things are still hot and going strong. Year over Year and Year to Date even though we are seeing prices increase we are not gaining inventory, which is creating and keeping the us in a sellers market. 

In today's world of rising housing costs, many buyers are looking for ways to still be able to buy a home. Some of them have found a solution in multi-generational living.

Multi-generational living is when two or more adult generations live together under one roof. This includes siblings, parents, or even grandparents. Here’s an in-depth look at why more buyers are choosing this option today, so you can see if it may be right for you too.

Reasons To Buy a Multi-Generational Home

According to a recent study by the National Association of Realtors (NAR), the top two reasons people are opting for multi-generational homes today have to do with affordability (see graph below):

Cost Savings: About 28% of first-time buyers and 11% of repeat buyers are deciding on a multi-generational home to save on costs. By pooling their resources, households can share the financial responsibilities like mortgage payments, utilities, property taxes, and maintenance, to make homeownership more affordable. This is especially helpful for first-time homebuyers who may be finding it tough to afford a home on their own in today's market.

More Space: Another 28% of first-time buyers and 18% of repeat buyers are doing it because they want a larger home they couldn’t afford on their own. For some of the repeat buyers who listed this as a main motivator, it could be because they find themselves taking care of older parents while also welcoming back young adults who've returned to the nest. With everyone chipping in and combining their incomes, suddenly, that big dream home with more space is within reach. As the Triangle Business Journal explains:

“Choosing multi-gen living allows people to purchase a home much larger than they could afford on their own by leveraging the combined income, credit and a down payment of those that they will be occupying the home with.”

Lean on an Expert

If you’re interested in this too, partner with a local real estate agent. Finding the perfect multi-generational home isn't as simple as shopping for a regular house. That’s because there are more people with even more opinions and needs that should be considered.

You've got to make sure everyone has their own space, find room for shared household time, and possibly even create adaptable areas for older relatives. It's a puzzle, and the pieces need to fit just right. Your real estate agent has the expertise and local knowledge to help you find that home where everyone can be comfortable without breaking the bank. As MoneyGeek.com puts it:

"Having a good multigenerational property can improve the prospects of success when living with loved ones. A multigenerational home should fit the specific needs of most family members regardless of age or health. Speaking to a real-estate agent can help you gain clarity and locate a fit."

Bottom Line

Buying a multi-generational home can be a smart way to tackle some of today’s affordability challenges. When you team up to share expenses, you can make your dream of homeownership more attainable. If this sounds like an option for you and your loved ones, let’s connect to help you find a home that’s the perfect fit.

Moving into a new home is a thrilling experience, but budgeting wisely is essential. Here are key items to splurge on:

1. Mattress: A quality mattress ensures restful sleep and better overall well-being.
2. Flooring: Invest in durable, attractive flooring to enhance your home's appeal and value.
3. Sofa: A comfortable, high-quality sofa becomes the centerpiece of your living space.
4. Kitchen Cabinets: Quality kitchen cabinets add value and functionality to your home.

On the flip side, you can save on items like home decor, end tables, and lighting. These areas offer budget-friendly options that can help you maintain a stylish and welcoming home while respecting your financial goals. And who doesn't love a good thrift store shopping excursion!?!

The latest pickleball craze has taken the sports world by storm, sweeping across the nation and gaining a dedicated following like never before. This unique racquet sport, often described as a fusion of tennis, badminton, and ping pong, has captivated players of all ages and skill levels. With its relatively simple rules and quick learning curve, pickleball has become a go-to recreational activity for families, seniors, and fitness enthusiasts alike. What sets it apart is its accessibility, as it can be played on both indoor and outdoor courts, making it a year-round favorite in communities across the globe.

Pickleball's appeal lies not only in its ease of play but also in its social aspect. It encourages friendly competition and fosters a sense of camaraderie among participants. The sound of the paddle hitting the perforated ball, affectionately known as the "pickleball pop," has become a familiar sound at local courts, parks, and sports clubs. As the sport continues to grow in popularity, it's no surprise that new players are joining the ranks every day, and communities are investing in more pickleball facilities to meet the rising demand. Whether you're looking for a fun way to stay active or a new hobby to connect with others, the latest pickleball craze offers an exciting and inclusive experience for all.

Where to Find Pickleball in Asheville?

1) Murphy-Oakley Park - Asheville - Fall Pickleball Nights Tuesday Nights in October & Novemeber

2) Montford Park - Asheville - Multiple courts

3) Asheville Racquet Club - South Asheville - Multiple Indoor Courts

4) Kenilworth Park - Asheville - Multiple Courts 

5) Weaver Park - Asheville - Multiple Courts

6) Malvern Hills - West Asheville - Multiple Courts 

Interested in Joining the Asheville Pickleball Association? Heres your link to do so! Asheville Pickleball Assoication

There are so many things to love about fall, especially in the mountains of WNC! 

Western North Carolina truly comes alive in the fall with a plethora of exciting activities that celebrate the season's beauty and spirit. One of the most anticipated events is the stunning transformation of the region's lush forests as the leaves change colors. As the temperature drops, the mountains and valleys of WNC burst into a vibrant tapestry of red, orange, and yellow foliage, creating a breathtaking backdrop for outdoor adventures. Hiking along the Blue Ridge Parkway during this time is a must-do, providing visitors with panoramic views of the stunning autumn scenery that stretches as far as the eye can see.

In addition to the mesmerizing foliage, WNC hosts a range of festive events during the fall season. The Blue Ridge Pride Festival, held annually, showcases the region's inclusive and diverse community. This vibrant celebration features live music, food vendors, and a colorful parade that winds through the streets of Asheville. For those seeking a more thrilling experience, WNC offers a host of haunted trails and corn mazes that provide spine-tingling fun. These attractions combine the beauty of the season with the excitement of Halloween, making it an ideal destination for both families and thrill-seekers looking to immerse themselves in the magic of autumn in Western North Carolina.

Click the link below to see all the fun fall festivites happening! 

2023 Fall Festivals