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Welcome to the March edition of the Leslie Eason Real Estate Team newsletter! In this jam-packed edition, we are leading off with a range of activities to explore during this time of year when we have more foggy and rainy weather.
Our market update shows that new listings are hitting the market at a pace above last year, and time on market is shortening. This is due in part to both buyers and sellers realizing that current interest rates are the new normal and not expected to change for some time.
On the topic of listings, we are including some featured listings not just from our team, but our whole office, for you to get back in the house buying and selling spirit. Our readers have enjoyed our curated links to listings by area and type.
Keep on reading to find not only upcoming events in the High Country, but also attractions and listings at the Crystal Coast of NC, where we are expanding our services.
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This time of year, we often have mist and fog, and it creates a great opportunity to explore other aspects of the High Country. For a full list of activities,
CLICK HERE!
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Mystery Hill:
Delve into the mysteries of this gravity defying attraction, from the mind-bending Gravity House to the perplexing forces that seem to make objects roll uphill. Mystery Hill also includes the Native American Artifacts Museum and several other attractions at the site. A visit to Mystery Hill promises an entertaining and puzzling adventure for those seeking a unique blend of science and amusement.
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Gem Mining:
Gem mining is a staple activity in the High Country for any day! Bring the family to explore the rich geological history of the region while engaging in hands-on discovery. We have several great places to mine for gems in the High Country, such as Foggy Mountain Gem Mine, Doc's Rocks, and Greater Foscoe Mining Company.
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Linville Caverns:
Embark on an adventure beneath the Blue Ridge Mountains as you explore the ancient stalactites, mysterious rock formations, and more while expert guides share the geological history of the caverns. Linville Caverns is an immersive experience that combines education and exploration.
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Blowing Rock Art and History Museum:
BRAHM has become a major cultural center in the area, offering a constantly changing range of contemporary and historical art. More than that, the museum offers popular regular weekly activities weekly such as the Tuesday Afternoon Art Club and summer camps for kids, studio staurdays for young adults, musical concerts, art roundtable discussions, and even a weekly mindfulness meditation group.
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February Real Estate Activity
The biggest news in February was the uptick in new listings, at a level we typically see in March and April. Median price was down from a slightly inflated January, as large number of lower priced homes sold versus a more high priced group of sales in January.
Closed sales were down, given that most of these homes sold went under contract in January, our slower time after the Holidays. This number was even with February 2023. We currently have 202 homes under contract, indicating a higher sales level to come.
While we wish interest rates could be lower, the strong economy numbers point to interest rates remaining at current levels for some time. The current rates do reflect the average historical rates, even if they are much higher than during the Covid Pandemic.
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As buyers and sellers get used to this 'new normal,' it is hoped that inventory levels will start to grow. For buyers who were putting plans on hold, the market is showing that there will not be a major decline in prices or interest rates.
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Here are some featured listings from our Keller Williams High Country Office | |
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(Above) App Ski Meltdown Games: (March 16-17)
Join the festivities at the App Ski Meltdown Games in Blowing Rock, NC, as they bid farewell to the ski season. The weekend is filled with exhilarating events, including the cardboard box derby, 3-person sled contest, railjam and the pond skim.
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Charlie Ellis at The Green Park Inn: (Every Friday & Saturday, 6pm)
Enjoy free jazz concerts by local musician Charlie Ellis every Friday and Saturday at Green Park Inn, Blowing Rock. . Enjoy the beautifully restored Inn's lobby, sitting rooms and The Divide Tavern..
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The Dawgful Dead: (March 21, 7:30pm)
Based out of Boone, NC, The Dawgful Dead features the musical traditions of Jerry Garcia and David Grisman. With fused elements of rock, folk, country, jazz, and blues, this trio brings all of the hits from The Grateful Dead back to life, performing at the App Theatre!
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Banff Mountain Film Festival: (March 21-23, 7:30pm)
Originating in Banff, Canada, the tour brings the best in outdoor and adventure documentaries, shorts, and feature films to audiences worldwide. Act quickly because tickets are almost completely sold out!
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Blowing Rock Trout Derby: (April 6)
The 44th Annual Trout Derby starts at sunrise.. Compete for the largest fish in age categories and special prizes for tagged trout in Mayview Lake. No entry fees or pre-registration required.
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Tweetsie Railroad Opening Day: (April 6)
[The familiar "Tweet, tweet!" of Tweetsie Railroad's historic narrow-gauge steam locomotives will be heard throughout the Blue Ridge Mountains once again when Tweetsie opens its doors for the 2024 season.
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We look forward to serving your real estate needs in the Crystal Coast of NC. Here are some of our favorites activities to enjoy all year. | | |
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Discover the well-preserved Fort Macon on the Crystal Coast, offering a fascinating journey through North Carolina's past. Built during the early 19th century and witness to Civil War events, this coastal fortress provides informative exhibits, coastal views, and interactive demos, in addition to access to some beautiful shoreline. | |
A Visit to Beautiful Beaufort, NC | |
With a rich history dating back to the early 18th century, Beaufort invites visitors to wander its charming streets lined with historical homes, explore the maritime museum, or embark on scenic boat tours. With shops, restaurant and quaint B&B's Beaufort is an ideal destination for the day or a week. | |
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Pine Knoll Shores Aquarium | | |
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Explore the fascinating underwater world of the Crystal Coast with a visit to the Pine Knoll Shores Aquarium. Featuring diverse marine life following origins of the water from the mountains to the coast. | |
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Featured Vacation Rental
Offered by Spectrum Rental Properties, this dog friendly Oeanview Rental in Atlantic Beach offers decks off all rooms and sleeps 10. For more information CLICK HERE
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Find your special place at the Crystal Coast: | |
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“Professional, thorough, and friendly, Leslie stayed on top of our listing from our initial contract up to and after closing. She provided great suggestions and guidance for pricing, listing, showing, and negotiations. My wife and I have bought and sold many houses during a career that took us to both Carolinas, Georgia, and Florida, and Leslie was without a doubt the best agent we have worked with.”
Seller, Banner Elk, NC 1/22/2024
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