What is the MLS? And Why is it Important to Your Home Search?

Imagine a group of dapper gentlemen sitting around a conference table, discussing the newest properties for sale in the city. Their three-button vests were freshly pressed just this morning, and their mustaches are expertly waxed. By sharing information about their client’s available properties, the brokers are engaging in an open quid pro quo: If you […]

Should You Buy a Vacation Home or a Vacation Rental?: the Pros and Cons

If it’s financially feasible for you, owning a second property can be an excellent investment. You can use the property as a vacation rental. Or you can retain it for your own vacation purposes and use it as a primary home during retirement.  However, before you jump on that cute bungalow you spotted on beverly-hanks.com, […]

4 Essential Agent Traits for a Great Home Buyer Experience

Just because your neighbor’s college roommate’s sister just got a real estate license doesn’t mean she’s the right agent for you. When you bring on a real estate agent to help with the home buying process, you’re making a hiring decision. This person will help you make one of the largest financial decisions in your […]

Buy a Fixer-Upper or New Construction Home: What’s the Best Decision?

So, you’ve recently decided to buy a home. First of all—congratulations! We know you’ve been working hard to pay down your credit cards, boost your credit score, and scrape together a modest down payment in the process. Your hard work is paying off! Buying a home can be a time consuming, complicated process. With the […]

3 Reasons Why We Shouldn’t Discount Foreign Home Buyers in the Mountains

People from Western North Carolina love it here—and for great reason! Our four distinct seasons are great for local businesses, residents, and visitors alike. The people are kind, the views are jaw dropping, and for most, the cities are just the right size. It’s no wonder so many people choose to Live Abundantly in WNC. […]

How to Set up Utilities in WNC: A Complete Guide for New Homeowners

There’s a lot of love that goes into buying a home. From discovering the perfect fireplace framed by built-ins to finding a space large enough for a growing household, it’s easy to see the whole process with rose-colored glasses. But unless you’re wealthy enough to have a butler who has a butler, you’ll have to […]

How to Tour a Home if You Live out of Town in 4 Easy Steps: 3D Tours

In today’s digital age, it’s easier than ever to research area communities and find the best real estate agent, even if you live out of town. You can search online for homes that meet your every criteria, from lot size and square footage to siding and flooring types. And with modern communication, the whole process […]

3 Ways Second Homes Differ from Primary Homes and Investment Properties

So, you’re thinking about buying a second home. Congrats! Whether your work has gone remote, or you’re looking for a way to get as far away from work as possible, there are many great reasons to invest in a second home. However, buying a second home is not the same as buying your first. There […]

6 Things You Need to Do before Joining an HOA (Plus 4 Once You’re in)

You’ve finally landed that raise, your kids are getting a little older, and you’re ready to move on up! Better than the east side, you’re headed to one of the swanky gated communities you’ve always dreamed of living in. And then you realized it’s governed by a homeowner’s association. What do you do? If you’re […]

How to Find the Best Real Estate Agent if You Live out of Town

With mega-search sites like Zillow and Trulia, accessing homes for sale in other markets is less of a challenge than it has ever been. However, with fewer homes available than we’ve seen in years, timing has become key. Finding your dream home still takes time, know-how, and often the help of a dedicated professional real […]