Somersby Park’s unique location is perfect for privacy and investments.
Nestled in the picturesque landscape of Somersby Park, this gated community offers a unique blend of serene woodland surroundings and convenient access to modern amenities. Located near Laurel Park, residents enjoy the feeling of being in the heart of nature, with lush woods and peaceful scenery enveloping the area. Yet, just a quick ten-minute drive takes you to downtown Hendersonville, where you can find a variety of restaurants, shopping, and healthcare facilities—all the essentials for a comfortable lifestyle.
For those seeking both privacy and potential investment, lots four and six in Somersby Park present a unique opportunity. These adjoining lots allow you to build your dream home on one lot while keeping the second lot as a private buffer. This setup not only enhances your privacy but also ensures that your beautiful surroundings remain undisturbed. The outstanding views from these lots further elevate the appeal, making it an ideal spot for those who appreciate both nature and exclusivity.
"Somersby Park’s unique blend of nature and convenience makes it an ideal place to call home."
If Somersby Park sounds like the perfect place for your next home, feel free to reach out to me via call, text, or email anytime. My number is (828) 674-0900 and my email address is cricket@ashevilleluxurybrokers.com. I’d be delighted to help you explore this exceptional community and find the perfect lot to suit your needs.
A virtual walkthrough of a modern yet tranquil North Carolina condo.
Are you looking for the perfect condo? Today, I will take you on a virtual walkthrough of the property that may be just what you’re looking for. in this charming Western North Carolina condo at Southside Village, you’ll get to experience coming home to the feeling of tranquility and serenity as you’re surrounded by nature. Not only that, this 3-bedroom, 3-bath home also features a modern, fully equipped kitchen, a spacious living room perfect for relaxation and entertaining guests, and a balcony with peaceful views of nature.
"Experience modern living with a touch of nature in this North Carolina condo."
If you’re interested in making this beautiful condo your new home, call us at (828) 674-04900 or email cricket@ashevilleluxurybrokers.com for more information and to schedule a viewing. I look forward to hearing from you!
Three reasons why your home isn’t selling and what to do about it.
Are you struggling to sell your home this summer? As we transition from the spring to the summer housing market, inventory is increasing in our area. More people need to sell, so if you expect your house to fly off the market like it’s April, you might be in for a rude awakening. The good news is that you don’t have to settle for a drawn-out home sale. By taking the right steps, you can still receive top dollar and sell quickly in this market. Here are three things you can do if your home isn’t selling:
1. Make sure your price is right. Since more homes hit the market during the summer months, the market rate for your house might be changing. Double-check comparable properties, especially those that have hit the market recently, to see if you need to make an adjustment on price. Your real estate agent can also run a comprehensive market analysis, which will give you a more complete picture of where your home stands in the current market.
“Inventory is increasing, so you need a good marketing strategy.”
2. Address condition and accessibility. The two biggest issues buyers have with homes in this market are condition and accessibility. Right now, buyers want to put as much money down as possible so they can lower their monthly payments. This means they don’t have a ton of money for repairs, so make sure you’ve addressed major issues before getting to negotiations. Next, make sure your house is as available as possible for showings. The more showings you have, the more offers you’ll receive, and the better deal you’ll ultimately get.
3. Reexamine your marketing strategy. Depending on your real estate agent, your marketing strategy might be out of date. We are no longer in the red-hot pandemic market, and you need a more aggressive strategy to be successful. If your agent isn’t doing effective follow-up with buyers, advertising your property online, or guiding you through the market, it might be time to find another Realtor.
If your home is struggling to sell, please call or email me for a copy of my marketing plan. I can also run a comparative analysis on your house to check if it is priced correctly for your market. I look forward to hearing from you!
Learn how to prepare your home for buyers and the open market.
Are you looking to sell your home this summer? While we’re still in a strong seller’s market, there is a widening gap between homes that are ready for the market and those that aren’t. If you want your home to be a winner on the open market, you probably need to make your home as ready and attractive to buyers as possible. It’s proven that the more showings you have, the more likely you are to have a faster sale and net a higher price. That’s why today, I’m sharing three ways you can get your house ready for showings this summer:
1. Take care of minor repairs upfront. Right now, buyers’ number one concern is higher interest rates and affordability. As a result, they want to put as much money down as they can to lower their monthly payments. This means that if you take care of repairs upfront, buyers will be more interested in your house and might even be willing to pay a premium. Taking care of cosmetic repairs upfront is a good idea even in a normal market, but higher interest rates mean this step is more important than ever.
2. Do some staging. Think about a model home: It’s clean, standardized, and impersonal. Your goal should be to get as close to that image as possible. Your home likely has a lot of personalized touches, like odd furniture, family photos, or maybe even an off-colored wall. I recommend trying to depersonalize your home as much as possible so prospective buyers can picture themselves living in your property. Plus, by packing everything away, you’ll make moving easier once you sell your house.
“Buyers will pay a premium for homes in good condition.”
3. Have a plan for children and pets. Your showings probably won’t go smoothly if your dog or young children are running around. Instead, work with your agent to create a showing schedule with blocks of time when your home is ready for buyers. This way, you and your buyers won’t be disrupted. I recommend putting dogs in kennels just for the short time when you’ll be having showings. While moving your pets around might be a little work, it’s worth it to keep your house in pristine condition when buyers are viewing it.
If you want a detailed showing plan or list of repairs to make before you list your home, please call or email me. I’d love to help you navigate this housing market!
Discussing the key benefits of offering competitive buyer agent rates.
In case you don’t know, the real estate world was flipped on its head recently. A lawsuit against the National Association of Realtors is challenging how buyer agents get paid, and it’s left a lot of people confused. Here’s the short version: A court recently ruled that the current structure of buyer’s agents’ commissions was illegal and needed to change. In the past, the seller would pay full commission to their agent, and the seller’s agent would then split that commission with the buyer’s agent. In this way, the buyer wouldn’t actually need to put any money down for their representation. Now, the buyer commissions are negotiated separately from the seller side.
So, do you still need to pay the buyer’s agent’s commissions when selling your home? If you want the best representation possible, yes, and there are a few key reasons why:
1. Setting a rate upfront avoids negotiations. Since buyer commissions are now negotiable, it’s better to get ahead of things and agree to a rate before negotiating. If you wait until closing to negotiate your buyer commission rate, it could become a sticking point that slows down your sale or jeopardizes the translation altogether. You may even have to end up paying extra just to make your buyer happy. Instead, I recommend communicating upfront about what you’re willing to pay to avoid confusion and unnecessary negotiations.
“Set your rate based on comparative home sales in your area.”
2. Offering a competitive rate will help your home sell. Just like you look at similar homes in your area to determine your listing price, you should also look at similar buyer’s agent rates in your area to determine how much commission you offer. A higher rate is a sign to buyers that you’re serious about getting your home sold and will probably reduce your time on the market. However, you don’t want to make your rate too high and end up paying unnecessary fees. Work with your agent and look at similar homes in your market to find a Goldilocks rate that isn’t too high or too low.
3. Offering no commission to buyers comes with risks. You may think it makes the most sense to offer zero commission upfront and simply negotiate a low rate at closing; however, this isn’t how things will work in practice. Just because you list your home and offer a 0% rate upfront does not mean you won’t pay any buyer commissions—most buyers will simply ignore your home if they think their representation won’t be compensated. Instead, it means you’ll have to negotiate the rate at closing, which can lead to a drawn-out sale and potentially paying more than you would have otherwise.
I know this topic can be a little confusing, so don’t hesitate to call or email me if you have any questions. Plus, I offer a flexible commission menu so that you can pay for representation no matter what your budget is. I look forward to hearing from you!
Transform your home with these simple upgrades for maximum ROI.
How do I get the most bang for my buck when it comes to home improvements? Spring is a time when flowers bloom and home sales peak, but it’s also a time when we can shake the dust off of our home improvement projects. It’s a time when you’ll find homeowners out renovating their gardens and inside painting their walls to refresh their homes for the new season. But, for those who are interested in selling this spring, what kind of home improvement projects will net them the biggest return on their investment? It's a crucial consideration, as not all improvements will significantly enhance your home's value. Today, I'll go over what projects to avoid, what repairs to make, and how to select a good contractor to do the work.
1. Avoid these upgrades. While upgrading is a great way to build on your home’s existing value, there are plenty of upgrades that aren’t worth your time or trouble. Upgrading your kitchen to top-of-the-line or professional grade, or making lavish landscaping changes aren’t very cost-effective. You also want to avoid partial upgrades at any cost. While finished projects may net you at least something in return, a half-done project might actually hurt your final sales price. When you embark on a project, make sure to see it through to completion. Don’t rip out the cabinets in your kitchen, tear up the tile in your bathroom, or pull up the carpet in the living room unless you plan to finish the job.
2. Try these instead. Adding to your home’s value, however, isn’t impossible. You’ve just got to pick the right projects to pursue. Consider replacing your garage door with something newer and fresher. While you’re at it, manufactured stone veneer is a great touch to the exterior of the home. Improvements that catch the eye and make a good first impression are almost always worth looking into. While you don’t want to go too in-depth, making sure that the landscaping is clean and nice is a great first step. Inside, look for mid-range remodels to the kitchen and touchups like fresh carpeting and paint. Don’t break the bank, but make sure things are up-to-date and functional.
“Think about the impact of each improvement on your home's appeal and value.”
3. Now for the contractor. One of the most critical considerations for any home improvement project is the contractor that you choose to perform the work. The right contractor will help you control costs, suggest high-quality additions that fit your budget, and get the details right the first time. In order to find this gem of a contractor, start by asking around to your friends, family, and even things like a neighborhood Facebook group. Generate a list of the top candidates and interview each of them to find the best fit. Don’t just review their proposals, however. You also want to ask for examples of their finished work and any licenses or certifications that they possess.
These improvements not only make your home more attractive to potential buyers but also have a track record of providing a solid return on investment. As you consider preparing your home for sale, think about the impact of each improvement on your home's appeal and value. Remember, strategic investments in your home can make a significant difference in its sale price.
Ready to take the next step in maximizing your home's value? As with anything related to real estate, the answers could change based on your location and comparable sales. I'm here to help. Contact me by phone or email for more personalized suggestions and any questions you might have. Let's work together to get the best possible price for your home!
What homeowners need to know about buying a home before selling.
Selling your current home before buying a new one is the conventional way to move. However, depending on your situation, there will be times when buying before you sell is the better option. Whatever your reason, you should know that buying first comes with additional risks, such as paying two mortgages, if your current home takes a long time to sell.
If you’re in a situation where you must buy first before selling, don’t worry. It’s not impossible, but it takes some strategic planning to make it happen. Here are three things that will help you buy before you sell:
1. Use a home equity line of credit. A home equity line of credit, or HELOC, is a second mortgage that allows you to borrow cash based on the value of your home. In other words, it allows you to use your equity without selling your home. While lenders vary on how much they’ll let you borrow, 85% of your equity is industry standard. If you choose this option, you’ll need to act fast. Getting approved for a HELOC often takes longer than a traditional mortgage approval, so you should have it in place before applying for the mortgage on your new home. Once you have moved into your new property, you can put your old one up for sale at your leisure and pay back your HELOC using the profits.
“You need to move fast in our competitive spring housing market.”
2. Finance with a bridge loan. A bridge loan is a short-term, high-interest loan. When you buy with a bridge loan, you can use your existing home as collateral to get a loan for your new house. To close your bridge loan faster, try to align the closing dates of your buying and selling transactions.
3. Use a service that will help you make a cash offer. Companies like Knock and Homeward are revolutionizing the way people buy and sell homes. These types of companies offer game-changing home loan products that let you make competitive cash offers on your dream home before the sale of your current one and help you avoid paying two mortgages simultaneously.
Buying a new home before selling your existing one has its unique challenges, but if you can leverage the three options above and utilize the guidance of an experienced agent, you can come up with the best solutions for your situation. If you want more details about this topic or have any real estate concerns, don’t hesitate to call or email me. I’ll be happy to help.
Getting lowball offers on a home that you’ve invested so much money and time in can be frustrating. I get it—the first thing you’re inclined to do may be to completely ignore those offers, and who can blame you? But even though you might not find it enjoyable, dealing with lowball offers is a necessary part of home-selling negotiations. If you don’t know how, don’t worry because today, I will explain how you can handle lowball offers in these three simple ways:
The first thing you should do when you get a lowball offer is to make sure your comps are correct. This means reassessing the price of your listing is around the same range as other properties in the area, because sometimes lowball offers may indicate that your home is overpriced. It is important to note, however, that when you’re assessing the value of your home, you also need to factor in the supply and demand, as well as the current rate of absorption in the market, in order to determine the actual value of your home.
Once you’ve re-checked and re-assessed your home’s value, the second thing you have to do is counter the offer. If the offer seems too low, I suggest that you counter it with a full-price offer. But whatever the offer may be, it is important that you counter the offer because some buyers may actually be able to afford your property even though they don’t make it obvious.
"Even though you might not find it enjoyable, dealing with lowball offers is a necessary part of home selling negotiations."
The third thing you have to do when dealing with a lowball offer is to negotiate the terms. You may find that some terms matter to you more than the price of the home itself. This includes your due diligence fee, due diligence timeframe, earnest money deposit, and your closing date. In this case, you may consider negotiating to adjust the closing costs, or there may be other things that can be addressed. But if you and the buyer aren’t able to agree during the negotiation, that is when you have to decline the offer.
So, if you’re planning to sell your home this spring, make sure you take note of my suggestions to get yourself ready to deal with lowball offers, especially if your home has been on the market for some time. If you have any questions about the spring market, please don’t hesitate to reach out via call at (828) 674-0900. Whether you’re buying or selling, I would love to walk you through everything you need to know.
If you're in the market for a luxurious new home in Asheville, North Carolina, then you won't want to miss the opportunity to take a sneak peek at this gem, located inside of The Cliffs at Walnut Cove. This new construction model home is currently available for sale, with an 18-month leaseback. Although the home is still under construction, it's already evident that it will be nothing short of breathtaking.
Asheville, North Carolina has been recognized by US News and World Report as the 4th best place to retire and the 16th best place to live in the entire country. With its stunning natural beauty, vibrant arts scene, and thriving culinary culture, it's no wonder that Asheville has become a sought-after destination for those seeking a high quality of life.
To truly appreciate the height of luxury living at The Cliffs at Walnut Cove, reach out to Asheville Luxury Brokers for a private tour of this immaculate home. Cricket Benfer, a leader in luxury real estate in Asheville, NC, has decades of experience helping people find their perfect luxury homes. With her expertise, she can guide you through the process of finding your dream home at The Cliffs at Walnut Cove.
Why Choose The Cliffs at Walnut Cove?
The Cliffs at Walnut Cove offers a unique opportunity to experience the pinnacle of luxury living in Asheville. Here are some reasons why you should consider this exclusive community:
Unparalleled Location: Nestled in the heart of Asheville, The Cliffs at Walnut Cove provides easy access to all the amenities and attractions that make this city so desirable. From the vibrant downtown area to the breathtaking Blue Ridge Mountains, you'll have everything you need right at your doorstep.
World-Class Amenities: Residents of The Cliffs at Walnut Cove have access to a wide range of world-class amenities. Whether you're looking to relax by the pool, play a round of golf on the championship course, or enjoy a rejuvenating spa treatment, you'll find it all within this prestigious community.
Customizable Homes: The Cliffs at Walnut Cove offers a variety of home designs to suit your unique preferences and lifestyle. From spacious single-family homes to elegant townhouses, you can choose the perfect layout and features to create your dream home.
Natural Beauty: Surrounded by the stunning natural beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains, The Cliffs at Walnut Cove offers breathtaking views and a tranquil setting. Imagine waking up to the sound of birds chirping and enjoying your morning coffee on your private patio overlooking the picturesque landscape.
Active Lifestyle: If you enjoy an active lifestyle, you'll love living at The Cliffs at Walnut Cove. With miles of hiking and biking trails, as well as access to nearby lakes and rivers, there are endless opportunities for outdoor recreation right at your fingertips.
Experience Luxury Living in Asheville
Need personalized assistance? Our experienced real estate agents are here to guide you every step of the way. Whether you have questions about the home-buying process or need help negotiating the best deal, our agents have got you covered. Contact us to schedule a consultation today!
Biltmore Park is a haven for adventure seekers and tranquility enthusiasts alike! Have you ever found yourself daydreaming about a place where natural beauty meets modern convenience, where you can savor the warmth of a friendly local community while exploring endless possibilities?
Say hello to Biltmore Park, where unforgettable memories await around every corner.