Author: Gretchen Tipps

Start your spring with the new Smith Mountain Lake Regional Chamber of Commerce event Rockin Brews & BBQ’s, Saturday, April 30th from Noon – 5pm in Downtown Moneta. The site of the SML Business Expo will be transformed from tents filled with businesses into tents filled with tasty BBQ and rockin music. A variety of barbecue will be served from North Carolina to Kansas City and everything in between. Admission is $5. Children 12 and under free.

Sign up to be a volunteer and receive free admission. For more information, or to volunteer, contact Jim at 540-721-1203 or e-mail at jims@visitsmithmountainlake.com.

Professional home stagers consult with homeowners on ways to sell their homes quickly and for the most money possible, but often lost in the design process is the fact that men are involved in buying decisions as well.

When having your home staged, it’s important to remember to appeal to both sexes and do some things that will pique a man’s interest just as much as a woman’s.

Professional stagers take into account buyer demographics, buying psychology, and utilize design elements in planning out the rooms and space and the use of lighting and its effect on the space. Don’t be afraid to let them know if the home is leaning too far on the woman’s side.

Women tend to look for cozier settings or rooms that facilitate intimate conversations, while males gravitate toward rooms with gadgets, televisions and electronics.

Open spaces and higher ceilings are also a draw for men as psychologically they have a larger sense of personal space. Professional stagers with men in mind try to create rooms where a man can feel as if he can walk through the house easily without stepping around all sorts of furniture.

When it comes to men, the garage and yard tend to be high up on the priority list, so it’s important to get these areas as perfect as possible.

Garages that have painted walls, clean floors and enough storage for various male-oriented hobbies will impress. Shelf space is almost always looked at as a good thing here and a place to hang tools or a workbench would make a fine addition to attract male buyers. And remember, an empty garage looks much bigger than one with a car parked in it.

With the yard, showcasing a well-maintained lawn will help sell the male. Thick, healthy grass, minimal bushes to trim and easy to clean garden beds will meet the landscaping criterion the male buyer looks for.

Appealing to both sexes when staging and selling a home requires an emotional investment that will pay off in the end for all parties, just don’t forget that men need a connection, too.

National survey echoes Smith Mountain Lake consumers’ belief in real estate as a good investment

The majority of America’s potential homebuyers and sellers — 68 percent — believe that the real estate market and property values will recover in the next year or two, according to a new survey by Prudential Real Estate and Relocation Services, a Prudential Financial, Inc. [NYSE:PRU] company.  This exceeds the 47 percent of Americans who expected house prices would rise in a similar survey conducted in April 2010, underscoring a more bullish outlook for the real estate market today.  In addition, 86 percent of Americans believe real estate is a good investment despite the market volatility of the past few years. The Prudential Real Estate Outlook Survey of 1,253 Americans between the ages of 25-64 in the market for buying a home was conducted Jan. 20-27, 2011.

The national survey reveals that six in 10 respondents are more interested in buying real estate (58%) and are optimistic about buying given the momentum of the economic recovery (59%).  It also shows that although the price of many Americans’ homes declined during the recession, 89 percent recognize they can also buy a new house at a lower price.

“This survey clearly demonstrates that Americans nationally and locally continue to be optimistic about the real estate market and believe that home prices will rise,” said Catherine Daniel, Principal Broker, Prudential Waterfront Properties.  “A key take away from the survey is although consumers recognize that it is a good time to buy, they are concerned about their ability to sell their homes. This is one of the reasons for a slowdown in Smith Mountain Lake’s recovery.”

For those on the fence about buying, uncertainty about selling an existing home (77 percent), concern about getting a fair price for the home (67 percent) and emotions (58 percent) are holding them back.  For those who have sold homes in the past year, despite the down market 78 percent report that they were satisfied with the sale.  Of these, 32 percent were very satisfied with the final price of their home and 46 percent were grateful they were able to sell given market conditions.  A relatively small number, 22 percent, indicated that they were disappointed or resentful about the price they received for their home.

The survey highlighted Americans’ interest in trading up their homes.  Of the 45 percent looking to trade up, 64 percent wanted more space or property, 49 percent a nicer house and 41 percent a better neighborhood.  Only 21 percent surveyed said they were looking to scale down, and 34 percent said that they wanted a similar home.

The survey highlighted the importance of getting the right price in today’s market —74 percent of buyers believe that many homes could meet their needs and that price is a significant differentiator, while 26 percent stated that they were willing to pay top of market for a home that specifically suits their needs.  In setting the right price, however, sellers were split—with 53 percent wanting to price right at or slightly below market to attract more bids and 47 percent wanting to price slightly higher than market and hoping to find a buyer willing to pay more.

The majority of respondents underscored the importance of real estate agents in the process of buying or selling their home.  Seventy-five percent of those surveyed said that an agent is very important or essential to this process, with only 24 percent saying agents are helpful but not imperative.

“Americans continue to see real estate agents as having a very important role in helping them price, buy and sell their homes; which is reflective of our market as well,” added Daniel.  “Although the data underscores the value real estate agents provide, it also shows that the industry needs to continue to work hard to meet clients’ unique needs.”

The Prudential Real Estate Outlook Survey was conducted online. The margin of error is +/- 3 percent. A more detailed breakdown of the data is available, as well as supporting charts and visuals, at www.news.prudential.com.

Prudential Waterfront Properties markets property throughout Smith Mountain Lake and the surrounding areas. As members of the Multiple Listing Service, Prudential Waterfront Properties REALTORS® are able to assist buyers and sellers with all listed properties in a variety of price ranges and locations throughout the lake and surrounding areas. Prudential Waterfront Properties REALTORS® are consistent leaders in sales as well as customer and client service.

Prudential Real Estate and Relocation Services is Prudential’s integrated real estate brokerage franchise and relocation services business. Prudential Real Estate franchises are independently owned and operated. Companies are selected based upon outstanding performance records, high levels of customer service and shared business values with those of Prudential. Prudential Real Estate is one of the largest real estate brokerage franchise networks in North America, with more than 1,600 franchise offices and 54,100 sales professionals in the franchise Network as of Dec. 31, 2010.

Prudential Financial, Inc. (NYSE: PRU), a financial services leader with approximately $784 billion of assets under management as of Dec. 31, 2010, has operations in the United States, Asia, Europe, and Latin America. Leveraging its heritage of life insurance and asset management expertise, Prudential is focused on helping individual and institutional customers grow and protect their wealth. In the U.S., the company’s Rock symbol is an icon of strength, stability, expertise and innovation that has stood the test of time. Prudential’s businesses offer a variety of products and services, including life insurance, annuities, retirement-related services, mutual funds, investment management, and real estate services. For more information, please visit www.news.prudential.com.

A year has gone by since The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) instituted the new Good Faith Estimate form in an effort to make a homebuyers’ journey through the mortgage process a bit easier, but many in the mortgage industry are not happy.

The form has gone through many different looks through the years, varying from lender to lender and software platform to software platform. Now, it has expanded to three pages and includes one “lump sum” for all lender charges.

The new standardized GFE must contain the exact language specified by HUD, which HUD says “consolidates closing costs into major categories to prevent junk fees and display total settlement costs prominently on the first page so the consumer can easily compare loan offers.”

The most significant changes to the new HUD-1 Settlement Statement were made with the intention of having consumers be able to easily compare their settlement charges on the GFE with those on the HUD-1.

HUD claims that the new regulations, which went completely into effect on April 20, 2010, is saving borrowers an average of $700. However, the goal was to make things clearer and a lot of confusion still exists.

One common complaint is that the new GFE does not fully explain to the consumer some of the more vital information the consumer is looking for, such as how much money they need to take to the closing.

Another is that the Total Estimated Settlement Charges listed on the new GFE forms does not include the down payment, which inevitably results in thousands of dollars more than what is expected.

There’s also a fear that consumers cannot distinguish between mortgage brokers and correspondent lenders.

The redesigned GFE also now requires consumers who are shopping for a loan to complete multiple loan applications with multiple mortgage providers, have their credit pulled by multiple mortgage providers, and possibly pay upfront fees to each of these providers.

HUD’s goal is to help consumers become better shoppers for settlement services. After all, right on the top of the first page it reads “Only you can shop for the best loan for you. Compare this GFE with other loan offers, so you can find the best loan.”

The new GFE goes a long way in doing this by forcing people to not infer general conclusions from their observations but actually apply rules and regulations.

While the mortgage industry may have complaints, the process was designed to help those searching for the loan and HUD believes they have done so.

Several businesses that serve the Smith Mountain Lake area have already made commitments to support the 2011 Charity Home Tour, to be held Friday, Saturday and Sunday, October 7-9, Home Tour officials have announced.

“At this early stage—only a few weeks into the effort to contact potential sponsors–we are delighted by the enthusiasm we’re seeing from businesses that want to be part of this year’s Charity Home Tour and make it a huge success for the participating charities,” said Phil Servidea, who is leading the sponsor recruiting effort for the Tour’s Executive Operating Committee.

Centra Medical Group, providers of cardiovascular, urology and primary care services to patients at SML as well as in Lynchburg, Gretna, Altavista, Big Island, Brockneal, Danville and Farmville, is the first to sign on as Royal Sponsor.

“Their generous support as a leading sponsor again this year provides an all-important cornerstone to the 2011 sponsorship effort,” Servidea said.

“Centra Medical Group is excited to be the Royal sponsor for the third year running,” said Centra Vice President Skip Leavitt. “We understand the importance of investing in local charity organizations, which in turn support the residents of Smith Mountain Lake area and surrounding communities. In our effort to support the lake region, Centra serves residents through the Village Family Physicians and our Specialty Clinic, both of which are located in Moneta. We are continuing to work on our plans to expand our services in the lake area.”

Centra has also agreed to supply the hospital “booties” Tour-goers wear to protect floors and carpets, saving the Tour from purchasing them and thus increasing the funding that will be given to each participating charity in November.

Pacesetting Diamond Sponsor is The Willard Companies, developers of Westlake Towne Center and several residential & country club/golf-course communities on the shores of SML.

“The Willard Companies is proud to sponsor the Charity Home Tour because the event benefits a variety of local charities while attracting a large number of visitors to Smith Mountain Lake. While we certainly realize the current economic challenges, we hope other area businesses are able to find a way to support this wonderful cause,” said Christopher Finley, Director of Marketing and PR for The Willard Companies.

Capps Building Supply Center was the first Gold Sponsor on board for 2011, signaling a return in a big way of one of the founding and traditional sponsors of the Tour, going back 20 years.

Pacesetting Silver Sponsor is Dale E Angle, Custom Builder.

Westlake office supply and quick-print supplier Print-n-Paper led the way as the first of what is hoped will be many Bronze sponsors, and “Friends of Marty Bowers” became the first Patron with a donation in honor of Marty’s many years of service as Home Tour Chairperson.

Participating 2011 charities, chosen by lottery drawing from among the qualifying 501C-3 organizations serving the SML area that applied, will each receive an equal share of this year’s Home Tour proceeds. They are: Bedford Christian Free Clinic; Bedford Pregnancy Center; Crisis Line of Central Virginia; Franklin County Humane Society; Free Clinic of Central Virginia; Helping Hands of Franklin County; Lake Christian Ministries; and SML Good Neighbors.

This year’s 21st annual Charity Home Tour will be held on Columbus Day weekend, Friday, Saturday and Sunday, October 7, 8 & 9. Now in its 21st year, the Charity Home Tour has donated over $2.5 million to help those in need. More information can be found on the Tour website, www.smlcharityhometour.com.

Prudential Waterfront Properties, Smith Mountain Lake’s Premier Real Estate Company, is exceptionally proud that we have an outstanding retention rate for our staff and sales associates.  In a field that so often experiences frequent turnover, it is testimony to our company as well as a reflection of the quality of people that are a part of our team to be able to recognize an associate for length of association with the company.  We were able to do just that when we honored Vicki Millehan and Carolyn Pruett in January for being with the company for 20 years. Congratulations to both Vicki and Carolyn!

Smith Mountain Lake is a wonderful place to set your anchor for great fun.   No matter the season, there’s a good reason to come to Smith Mountain Lake to relax, kick back and enjoy yourself.  Contact the Visitor Center at 800.676.8203 or 540.721.1203 to find out more about the following events scheduled for this year.

2011 Calendar of Events

April

April 29  –  8th Annual SML Business Expo Sponsored by the Smith Mountain Lake Regional Chamber of Commerce, this annual event showcases member businesses, service providers and their products. Public invited. Held at Downtown Moneta.

April 30 – Rockin Brews & BBQ’s an annual spring ‘music, food and fun’ event in the Smith Mountain Lake area.  Held at Downtown Moneta, Route 608 and 122, Noon – 5 p.m., Saturday, April 30. $5 Admission, Children 12 and under free.

May

May 7  –  14th Annual SML Triathlon

Come participate or cheer your favorites in swimming, biking and running events at the beautiful Smith Mountain Lake State Park located in Huddleston off of the Smith Mountain Lake State Parkway (Route 626).

May 7   –  24th  Annual Take Pride in Smith Mountain Lake Cleanup  Day This event marks the 24th annual lake-wide clean-up effort. Volunteers from the entire community get involved in sprucing up the lake and shore for the coming summer season. Volunteers can register individually, as a group or organization.  Call the Smith Mountain Lake Visitor Center for more information at 540.721.1203.

May 13-15—Pigg River Ramble   The Pigg River Ramble is a 3-day whitewater packed weekend full of excitement and adventure. You can race against other Ramblers or simply float for fun down the Pigg River. Friday, May 13, 2010 at 9:00pm kicks off the Pigg River Ramble weekend with the fun of a night-time float on the Blackwater River with the “Blackwater Blackout.”

Saturday, May 14, at 10:00am the Annual Pigg River Ramble kicks off with a competitive style float down the Pigg River, with canoeists/kayakers from all over the East Coast.

Sunday, May 15, at 7:00am Breakfast on the Blackwater starts off with a homestyle breakfast and wraps up the weekend with one more float down the Blackwater River. Info: www.franklincountyva.org/parks 540-483-9293

May 23   –  15th Annual Corporate Cup Golf Classic

The opening of the spring golfing season at the lake is a much-anticipated event by golfers from the surrounding communities. The tournament will be held Monday, May 23rd at The Waterfront Country Club. This prestigious annual event is an excellent way to showcase your company, meet new business prospects and entertain top clients – all while enjoying a day of relaxation on one of the area’s finest golf courses.

May 20, 21   –  Tom Maynard Memorial Poker Run

Special charity event that involves playing poker from watercraft.   Prizes are awarded for both winning and losing hands and best “decked out” boat and crew.  The Poker Run is dedicated to good fun and all proceeds go to a worthy cause.  Other special events surrounding the Tom Maynard Poker Run weekend include a welcome dinner with entertainment as well as a special boating safety orientation class.

June

June 18 – Juneteenth Celebration at Booker T. Washington National Monument

Freedom is the focus of this emancipation celebration for the whole family. Tour the Burroughs Plantation – music performed by local gospel groups. Free admission. www.nps.gov/bowa, 540-721-2094.

July

Independence Day Celebration  –  July 2nd(Raindate-July 3)

Loaded with fun, entertainment and grand fireworks for all to see, this major event takes place at Parkway Marina in Huddleston to celebrate our nation’s independence.  No Pets will be allowed on the Point!

September

September 16 & 17  –  Smith Mountain Lake Antique and Classic Boat Show

In and out of the water antique and classic boats, a display of antique automobiles and a great selection of quality craft vendors.  The event will be held at Mariners Landing in Huddleston, VA.  For more information contact SMLRCC at 800.676.8203 or visit www.woodenboats.net.

September 24 and 25   — 23rd  Annual Smith Mountain Lake Wine Festival This amazing weekend event includes 28 Virginia wineries participating offering their finest vintages. Try wine tastings, more than 85+ quality food and craft vendors plus live entertainment— it’s one of the lakes truly GRAPE events!

October

October 7, 8, 9   –  Smith Mountain Lake Charity Home Tour Visit eight beautiful waterfront homes reflecting a variety of architectural and decorating styles. Tour the featured homes by car or boat.

October 15 — A Night at the Races, The Rotary Club of Smith Mountain Lake’s Fall Fundraiser will be held Saturday night October 15, 2011, at the W.E. Skelton 4-H Conference Center. This will be a very exciting evening of trumpets blaring, horse racing, dinner, refreshments, door prizes, 50/50 raffle, race card winner’s drawing for prizes, and even a woman’s hat parade and contest.

November

November 5  –  9th Annual Smith Mountain Lake Fall Chili and Craft Festival

Enjoy a full-day event featuring music, crafts and a spectacular competitive chili cook-off, with awards for Best Chili, People’s Choice and Showmanship!  Held at Bridgewater Plaza, it’ll be a hot time at Smith Mountain Lake.  Savor the essence of fall with ‘chili…just the way you like it’ at the Smith Mountain Lake Fall Chili & Craft Festival. The event is slated for Saturday, November 6th at Bridgewater Plaza. This will be the eighth fall event sponsored by the Smith Mountain Lake Regional Chamber of Commerce and it captures the best of everything with plenty of activity, great chili for tasting, craft vendors, awards and a beautiful lakeside setting.

November 26 –  13th Annual Virginia Dare Flotilla for Toys Christmas Boat Parade

An evening event, with a parade of boats ‘decked out’ for the holiday season with lights and displays.  The boats leave port from the Virginia Dare Marina at 7 p.m., travel to Halesford Bridge at Bridgewater Plaza, circle past the SML State Park and return to the Virginia Dare Marina. This event is a local toy drive with all gifts distributed by the Lake Christian Ministries.

Congratulations to The Water’s Edge, The Waterfront and The Westlake Golf and Country Club who were featured in the 10th Annual Best of Smith Mountain Lake Awards. The Water’s Edge received the Platinum “Best Private Golf Course” award, The Waterfront received the Gold “Best Private Golf Course” award and The Westlake Golf and Country Club received the Platinum “Best Public Golf Course” voted on by readers of the Smith Mountain Laker Magazine.

If you are interested in all things Smith Mountain Lake, Virginia and would like more information about our beautiful community, feel free to visit us online at www.smithmtnlake.com or call our office at (800)-858-4653 to request a free DVD, Visitor & Newcomer Guide or Map.

Prudential Waterfront Properties announced Carolyn Crabtree, REALTOR® has joined their sales team.

In 1994, Crabtree and her husband, Tony, bought their first Smith Mountain Lake property from Prudential Waterfront Properties. They spent summers and weekends with their three daughters exploring the lake and surrounding areas. In 2002, they relocated from Greensboro, North Carolina to make Smith Mountain Lake their permanent residence. “Throughout our 17 years at Smith Mountain Lake, on several occasions, we were very satisfied customers of Prudential Waterfront Properties. I am proud to now be affiliated with the company as a sales associate and look forward to providing the same level of outstanding service to buyers and sellers,” said Crabtree.

According Cathie Daniel, Principal Broker, “We are very happy to welcome Carolyn to our company and anticipate great success for her. Carolyn is knowledgeable, well-connected and involved in the community, which are the qualities it takes to succeed in this industry and what our clients have come to expect.”

Originally from Miami, Florida, Crabtree has lived in many regions of the country. She was a Flight Attendant with Eastern Airlines for nine years and also worked for Napp Deady in High Point, North Carolina as a Sales Representative for six years. In addition to living on Smith Mountain Lake, Crabtree also owns a farm in Moneta where she raises goats.

Crabtree is a member of the Roanoke Valley Association of Realtors, Virginia Association of Realtors and National Association Realtors. As a member of the Multiple Listing Service, Carolyn is able to assist buyers and sellers with all listed properties in a variety of price ranges and locations.