Asheville Real Estate Blog from GreyBeard Realty » Uncategorized

Will Asheville Real Estate Market Follow the National Trend Toward Fewer McMansions?

Sally — Mon, 21 Feb 2011 18:18:53 +0000

There are several signs that larger homes, often known as McMansions, may be headed the way of the dinosaur…or at least the albatross. The American Institute of Architects survey in 2010 indicated that close to 60% of respondents noted that homes were getting smaller while the remainder reported that home sizes were staying the same. Almost no one responded that homes were getting larger.

The interest in smaller homes can be understood given the recent tightening of mortgage restrictions, making it even more difficult to finance these larger homes. In addition, with the national decline of home values in the current economy, those hoping to upgrade to a McMansion may find it harder to get their value out of their existing home.

McMansions may be on the way out.

This trend toward to smaller homes is even making its way into the second home market. In major markets across the country, developers are moving away from large vacation homes and moving toward smaller, more compact homes. Again, financing a second home can be more challenging than in the past, and potential homeowners seem to be looking for value and convenience over opulence.

In addition to being more difficult to finance, these larger homes, both primary and second homes, are more expensive to furnish, heat and upkeep, all of which is making the move away from super-sized homes more appealing.

Locally, since 2005, the number of larger homes sold has decreased in Buncombe County. In 2005, 140 homes of 4,000 sq. ft. and 57 homes of 5,000 sq. ft. sold. In 2010, those numbers of units sold had decreased to 93 units and 30 units respectfully. For more information or help in choosing the right sized home in the Asheville area, please contact Greybeard Realty.

Asheville Cabin Day Trip

Sally — Mon, 12 Jul 2010 14:25:05 +0000

If you are looking for an international cultural event within a short distance from your Asheville cabin, consider taking in the 26^th annual Folkmoot USA International Festival taking place in various Western North Carolina counties from July 22^nd to August 1. One of only two international folk festivals in the US, Folkmoot USA, centered in Waynesville, NC, features more than 300 traditional dancers and musicians from 10 to 12 countries each year. This year’s festival has 21 ticketed performances as well as 34 private and charitable performances, some held as close as Asheville. Of course, the first step is choosing the right Asheville cabin. Greybeard Realty can help you make the right decision. Choosing the right festival event is up to you.

Want the best sports seats in the house with a mountain view? Check into this Asheville Cabin.

Sally — Thu, 04 Mar 2010 02:54:50 +0000

What if you want it all? Can you find an Asheville cabin minutes from the city with an incredible mountain view and all of the modern amenities plus some extras? Yes, if you check into Cedar View, one of our most recent additions to the Greybeard Realty rental homes.

This cedar planked home, located on a secluded cul-de-sac, features remarkable views from its two level decks. Just up Town Mountain Road, a mere ten minutes from downtown Asheville and the Blue Ridge Parkway, this recently renovated house has a screened-in porch and a six-seat hot tub. Walk through the beautifully landscaped gardens, play pool, surf the net, or bathe in the claw-foot tub.

Find Sanctuary at the Biltmore – extraordinary Asheville vacation rental

Chip Craig — Fri, 26 Jun 2009 13:27:18 +0000

Sanctuary, an Asheville vacation rental condo located in the Biltmore Village Villas, lives up to its name, providing Asheville renters with a beautiful getaway within close proximity to Asheville. This professionally decorated condo features two bedrooms, each with a private bath and ample closet space.

The unit, adjacent to Historic Biltmore Estate, includes a fully equipped kitchen with granite counter tops as well as a spacious living room with comfortable sofas and matching desks for your laptops. The living room has a large flat screen television and a gas fireplace. With the condo’s amenities, renters can prepare their meals at home or travel just minutes to dine out in Asheville.

In the same way, renters can curl up by the fireplace on the sofa and read a great novel or surf the net with the high speed internet, sit out on the private outdoor patio, or travel a short distance to enjoy the beautiful mountain hiking trails in the area. Luxurious sheets and towels provided by the owners make this rental condo a complete vacation package.