If you’re ready to buy a home in the Asheville area, a little prep work ahead of securing a mortgage will go a long way in making the process smooth and enjoyable. Here are some tips to set you on the path to success.

Credit score check

First off, check your credit, since this is the first thing potential lenders will do when you apply for a loan. Make sure it’s accurate, and that the numbers haven’t been fraudulently tampered with by someone with access to your credit. If you see inaccuracies, accounts that you didn’t open, or other mistakes, now is the time to take immediate steps to stop what could be identity fraud. And if your credit score isn’t where you’d like it, by taking certain measures you can see improvement in six to 12 months. Most mortgage programs require a minimum credit score of between 580 and 620.

Improve debt-to-income ratio

Next, it’s time to improve your debt-to-income ratio, the percent of your monthly income that goes toward repaying debt. This ratio will dictate whether you can get a mortgage loan. To improve your ratio, it’s important to pay off as much debt before applying for a mortgage, including credit cards, car loans, and college loans. 

Get the loan lowdown

Before you jump into shopping for a home, determine how much you can afford (factoring in down payment and closing costs) and how much you will have to borrow, then research your loan program options. Decide how you want to approach your loan, whether it’s finding the plan with the lowest down payment, the lowest monthly mortgage payment, the shortest duration, a fixed rate, or an adjustable rate.

A key step ahead of home buying is getting a pre-approval letter from a lender. You will need to provide the lender with tax returns, paycheck stubs, financial statements and the like, which the lender will review before deciding how much you can afford. 

Find the perfect agent

To make the home-buying process less complicated and intimidating, it’s important to have a trusted, knowledgeable real-estate agent by your side. Mosaic Realty’s community-minded agents approach your individual needs with respect, honesty and integrity, and take great pride in their ability to deliver results for buyers in Western North Carolina. Mosaic’s client-centered approach is integral to finding the perfect home, neighborhood and lifestyle for your unique needs.

For more information about real estate anywhere in Asheville or the Western North Carolina area, contact us at Info@MyMosaicRealty.com, or call us anytime at 828-707-9556.

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Lake Toxaway, featuring the largest private lake in N.C., is a picturesque community 51 miles southwest of Asheville that boasts quick access to breathtaking waterfalls and miles of hiking trails. The Greystone Inn and the adjacent Lake Toxaway Country Club anchor Lake Toxaway, and offer a spa, gourmet dining, lake cruises, golfing, tennis and water activities. 

Since the early 1900s, people have flocked to Lake Toxaway, drawn to its stream-fed waters and 14 miles of shoreline. Situated between Brevard and Cashiers on U.S. Highway 64, Lake Toxaway is in the heart of the “Land of the Waterfalls,” replete with stunning cascades surrounded by miles of hiking trails. Among popular waterfalls in the area are Toxaway Falls, Upper Whitewater Falls, Rainbow Falls, and the many falls of Panthertown Valley.

An array of lake activities in Lake Toxaway

Water activities on the lake are a popular pastime for visitors and residents alike. Because it is a private lake, access is limited to vacation home renters, Greystone Inn guests, and private owners. Everything from kayaks, paddleboards, canoes and motorboats to tubes and lake toys can be rented for use on the lake. Swimmers can also enjoy the refreshing mountain waters of Lake Toxaway.

The Greystone Inn, built in 1915 as a private estate, became a luxury inn in the 1980s. Today, it features 30 well-appointed rooms, as well as a restaurant, bar and spa, and is a popular destination for visitors to the area. Lake Toxaway Country Club also provides inn guests with access to golf, tennis, croquet and a marina.

Residences in Lake Toxaway include everything from sprawling estates to rambling ranches and cozy cottages. Lots with long-range mountain and lake views provide the perfect location for building your dream home.

Mountain adventure, just minutes away

For a daytrip from Lake Toxaway, consider the Brevard area. Just a 20-minute drive away, this part of Western North Carolina boasts a unique mix of the eclectic and the enchanting: Distinctive boutiques dot downtown streets, while epic outdoor adventures make it one of the most visited natural attractions in the Southeast. Nestled between Pisgah National Forest, DuPont State Recreational Forest and Gorges State Park, the area is known as one of the top mountain biking destinations in the U.S.

For more information about real estate in Lake Toxaway, or anywhere in Asheville or the Western North Carolina area, contact us at Info@MyMosaicRealty.com, or call us anytime at 828-707-9556.

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As the Asheville area settles into spring, it’s time to turn your yard green – in more ways than one. Eco-friendly tools and strategies for building up a beautiful outdoor space are easy to implement. Here are a few to consider:

Help nature naturally

Try mulching grass clippings back into your lawn as you mow, instead of bagging them for the landfill. Mulched clippings can also be used around flower beds, trees and plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Instead of bagging leaves, you can blow them directly into flower beds, where they will decompose into food for your plants and a natural layer of warmth and protection for new growth.

Skip chemical-laden fertilizer for your garden in favor of compost. You can create an at-home composting system to turn food scraps into free, nutrient-rich nourishment for your yard, or you can subscribe to Asheville-area services like CompostNow, which allows anyone to compost without the maintenance of a compost bin. Members receive bins that they can fill with compostable items; the bins are collected on a weekly basis and returned with earned compost, either to you or to a local community garden of your choosing. (www.compostnow.org)

Water wisely

There are many ways to water smart and still keep your yard happy. Harvesting rainwater via a rain barrel – which connects to your roof gutter’s downspout – cistern or rain chain means you’ll be using much less household water. Another option is to install a smart irrigation system with a sensor, which only waters when needed and can save thousands of gallons a year.

Give gas the boot

Lawn mowers, hedge trimmers, leaf blowers and other yard equipment long depended on gas – but today’s market is filled with electric and battery-powered options that eliminate the noise and air pollution so damaging to our environment. And if you have a small parcel of grass to cut, consider a tried-and-true push mower.

The amazing shrinking lawn

To trim down the time, energy and resources needed to keep your lawn in check, consider replacing it. Ground cover – such as creeping perennials or clover lawns – requires little to no mowing, and can flourish with very little care. You can also replace grass with pavers, stones, pea gravel and the like. 

To learn about real estate in the Asheville area, connect with us at Info@MyMosaicRealty.com, or call anytime at 828-707-9556.

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One of the oldest towns in Western North Carolina, Rutherfordton is teeming with eclectic art and interesting shops, not to mention plenty of outdoor recreation. The Thermal Belt Rail Trail runs through the town, connecting it to Ruth, Spindale and Forest City via a 13.5-mile paved path perfect for biking, walking or jogging. A city rich in history, Rutherfordton is home to a number of sites listed on the National Register of Historic Places. 

Established in 1787, Rutherfordton (55 miles southeast of Asheville) features rolling vistas against a Blue Ridge backdrop. Homes in Rutherfordton range from historical structures to compact cottages to expansive lots for building your dream property.

image by: Brian Stansbury license

Rutherfordton Boasts Outdoor Recreation in Western N.C.

The Rutherfordton area is an outdoor adventurer’s dream. There are plenty of nearby trails, ranging from easy to strenuous. Among the many popular ones are Bearwallow Mountain Trail, Broad River Greenway, Catawba Falls Trail, Chimney Rock State Park and Green River Gamelands. Road cycling is big here, with plenty of country roads to traverse, as well as annual bike tours and the Lake Lure Olympiad bike race. Mountain bikers can enjoy trails at South Mountains State Park and Chimney Rock State Park. Even horseback riding enthusiasts can get in on the action, with several stables and venues for riding.

Downtown Rutherfordton is home to many points of interest: At the Bechtler House, you can learn about a private mint that produced the first gold coin in the nation; KidSenses Children’s Interactive Museum features 20 interactive exhibits as well as the Factory, a hands-on maker space; the Rutherford County Visual Arts Center is home to works by 200 local artists; the 1925 City Hall and Fire Station, which now houses the Firehouse Inn and the Blue Ridge Design studio, is another popular stop.

Day trips from Rutherfordton

Nearby areas to visit include Spindale, featuring an array of restaurants, live music, and performing arts; the popular summertime destination of Lake Lure; and the Tryon International Equestrian Center, with many competitions and free family-centric events.

For more information about real estate in Rutherfordton, or anywhere in Asheville or the Western North Carolina area, contact us at Info@MyMosaicRealty.com, or call us anytime at 828-707-9556.

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Nestled in a picturesque valley just 27 miles west of Asheville, Lake Junaluska offers the perfect mix of pristine beauty and thrilling outdoor activities. The lake is anchored by a popular spiritual retreat center, and serves as the ideal spot for water sports. An array of homes dots the lush forests surrounding the lake, serving up stunning views and relaxing settings. 

Lake Junaluska was established as a mountain retreat for the United Methodist Church in the early 1900s. The lake town, part of Haywood County, has a population of around 2,700, but draws thousands of visitors every year to its serene locale. The spiritual retreat’s mission – to “renew the soul, mind, and body” – can also apply to the entire area, thanks to the plethora of scenic settings from which to enjoy all manner of activities, both peaceful and active. 

Enjoy Western N.C. living at its finest

Lake recreation includes canoeing, paddleboarding, kayaking and swimming. (You’ll find canoe, kayak and paddleboard rentals, as well as other recreation equipment, at Lake Junaluska Outfitters.) Boat tours of the lake are also available. The lake is stocked with everything from bass to catfish to crappie for fishing (no motorboats allowed). Circling the lake is a mostly flat, 3.5-mile paved trail, perfect for walking, running or biking. There is also an 18-hole golf course with a layout designed for all levels. A daily activity pass affords admission to the lakeside swimming pool, mini golf, tennis, pickleball and shuffleboard.

There are a number of gardens and parks in Lake Junaluska. And for mountain lovers, Lake Junaluska is perfectly positioned for easy access to both the Blue Ridge Parkway and Smoky Mountain National Park. Hiking, mountain biking, waterfall walks and camping are all popular activities that can be experienced just a short drive away.

Lake Junaluska homes against a Blue Ridge backdrop

Many homes in Lake Junaluska are optimally perched to drink in the stunning views. Everything from modern mountain designs to established cottages and condos to rambling ranches are sprinkled throughout the area. There are also many lots available to build your dream home from scratch. Schools in nearby Waynesville serve Lake Junaluska families.

For more information about real estate in Lake Junaluska, or anywhere in the Asheville area, contact us at Info@MyMosaicRealty.com, or call us anytime at 828-707-9556.

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With springtime emerging in Asheville, it’s time to focus on prepping your home’s outdoor spaces for maximum warm-weather enjoyment. Here are a few tips for outdoor cleaning, sprucing and setting up for spring.

Reseal exterior wood

Outdoor wood on areas such as decks, fences and railings should be stained and sealed regularly, especially ahead of the heavier use warm weather will bring. Doing so will ensure that the woodwork lasts longer and stays in better condition.

Clear gutters

Removing all of the leaves and other debris that have accumulated in your gutters and downspouts over the winter months is an important early step. Doing so helps to prevent damage from spring rains, protects wood trim from rot, and diverts rain properly so water doesn’t collect around your foundation.

Prep for yard care

Now is the time to sharpen mower blades, check sprinkler systems for leaks, and make sure other yard-care equipment is in working order. If you have perennials planted in your yard, sprinkle fertilizer, spread mulch and cut back dead growth in preparation for new blooms. If you’re looking to spruce up your patio, adding planters or hanging flower baskets is an easy and inexpensive way to welcome spring.

Clean or update outdoor furnishings

If you’ve got patio or deck chairs or couches, give them a good cleaning to remove debris that’s accumulated over the winter months. Toss removable cushion covers in the wash. If you’re looking to update or add outdoor furnishings, look for pieces that are weather proofed: Think aluminum, teak or specialty outdoor synthetics, including fabrics that are UV-protected. Add umbrellas or retractable awnings to create shady spots. 

Get ready to entertain

Warm weather invites backyard gatherings. To create the ideal outdoor entertainment spot, start by adding festive lighting: Consider string lights hung around a patio, or in-ground solar-powered lighting along pathways. Fire pits are easier than ever to install, and even come in smokeless designs. Al fresco dining can be enhanced with an outdoor grilling or cooking system.

For information about real estate in the Asheville area, connect with us at Info@MyMosaicRealty.com, or call anytime at 828-707-9556

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The unincorporated community of Bat Cave, in Henderson County, boasts more than just a unique name. Sitting along the scenic banks of the Broad River within the Hickory Nut Gorge, the Bat Cave area is home to waterfalls, wineries, hiking trails – and of course the one-of-a-kind cave for which it’s famed.  

Located 22 miles southeast of Asheville, Bat Cave features the largest known granite fissure cave in the world, with the main cave chamber more than 300 feet long and 85 feet high. Although the cave, home to the endangered Indiana bat, is off limits to protect its inhabitants, the community offers plenty of nearby spots to explore. 

One-of-a-kind establishments in Bat Cave, NC

Eclectic shops, inns and restaurants are a hallmark of the Bat Cave area. Everything from apple-themed groceries to vintage and antique wares to unique knick knacks and gifts can be had in Bat Cave. A range of restaurants, cafes and breweries just a short drive away in Chimney Rock offers something for everyone.

Properties for sale in Bat Cave come in a variety of options: everything from rambling farmhouses to mountain cottages to wide open acreage for creating your dream home. The Henderson County Public Schools system has 23 schools in four districts, with the student population growing to over 13,500.

Bat Cave's popular nearby attractions

Just a short drive from Bat Cave is a number of popular attractions. The town of Chimney Rock, named for the large granite rock anchoring the eponymous state park, sits 2.7 miles from Bat Cave and features historic inns, delicious farm-fresh food, eclectic shops, and views for miles. Spend the morning kayaking the Rocky Broad River or exploring the state park, then enjoy an afternoon soaking in the old-time feel of Chimney Rock’s Main Street.

Lake Lure, 11 minutes from Bat Cave, offers many spots for enjoying the area’s beauty and natural features. Most prominent is, of course, the lake itself. Lake Lure beach, open from Memorial Day to Labor Day, is the perfect place for cooling off, with lifeguards, a water slide, and other fun water sports. You can also kayak, rent a boat, or take a tour boat. Hiking and mountain biking options are also plentiful in and around Lake Lure. 

For more information about real estate in Bat Cave, contact us at Info@MyMosaicRealty.com, or call us anytime at 828-707-9556.

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Creating storage solutions for your home is important for both efficiency and aesthetics. Thinking outside the box will allow you to utilize novel spaces, create built-ins, and incorporate dual-purpose furniture to keep things tucked away, with easy access for the items you use most. And in the end, organized storage helps you to wrangle clutter, saves you time looking for things, and can add to the beauty of your home. Start with these handy tips for creating more storage in your home. 

Built-ins – Permanently incorporating shelving, cabinets and the like into underutilized spots throughout your house is a great way to create added storage – and added value – to your home. For instance, an alcove is the ideal spot for integrating a built-in desk, either traditional seated, or standing, with room for drawers and shelves. Under-window cabinetry takes unused space and turns it practical, at the same time creating the opportunity for an interesting focal point. And a built-in mudroom bench with storage is the perfect place to corral backpacks, shoes, umbrellas and other grab-and-go items.

Bathroom – Smart storage solutions are often necessary in the bathroom, where toiletries, towels and other personal items can easily accumulate. Such things as tower rolling carts and slim bathroom stands take advantage of the typically unusable space between toilets and vanities. Maximize more of your unused wall space by mounting towel racks that incorporate shelves or cubbies. More involved storage solutions can involve such things as mounting recessed mirrored medicine cabinets, or adding storage drawers under sinks (designs can even work around pipes). 

Garage, shed and workshop – These spots are magnets for clutter, but a few simple storage ideas can keep things under control. Peg board storage is one way to both utilize wall space and keep the items you use the most at arm’s reach. Hooks, shelves, shallow drawers and small bins easily attach to the boards; often you can find complete peg board kits with all of the storage components included. Attach weight-bearing hooks or track systems high up on walls to store shovels, rakes and other awkwardly shaped items. Large, sturdy wall hooks are also useful for bulky items such as folded camping chairs, umbrellas, bikes, extension cords and hoses. Vertical shelves, especially on wheels, help to keep things organized but easily moveable.

Closets – Shelving in closets often stops short of utilizing all the wall space. If this is the case in your closets, adding shelves all the way up can give you the perfect storage solution for boxes or items you may not need to access as often (think off-season clothes, holiday décor and the like). If you plan to store items in boxes, implement clear containers so you can easily see what’s inside without having to bring them out and open them. Baskets, rolling carts, and over-the-door racks can work in everything from bedroom closets to kitchen pantries, maximizing space while at the same thing making things accessible.

For more information about real estate in the Asheville area, contact us at Info@MyMosaicRealty.com, or call us anytime at 828-707-9556.

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Mosaic Community Lifestyle Realty is proud to announce that 12 of its brokers have been named among Movement Mortgages’ top 100 brokers in residential sales in Buncombe County for 2021. These top-producing brokers boast in-depth sales knowledge and experience, helping them to stand out among the hundreds of agents working in the Asheville area. They are Mike Figura, Stacey Enos, Carol Marin, LeAnn Bound, Caley Bowman, Vanessa Byrd, Eric Albee, Megan Shook, Alyssa Augustine, Laura Moye, Elizabeth Putnam and Trip Howell. 

Mosaic’s consistently high performance in Asheville-area residential sales is no accident: The agency’s brokers know what it takes to sell a home, from properly positioning it in the market to implementing grassroots promotions that engage potential buyers. Listening to, then acting on, a seller’s needs and desires is key – so whether a property is ideal for the first-time homebuyer, the green-build enthusiast, or the luxury property client, these top-selling agents have found success by implementing their keen knowledge and spot-on guidance.

Mosaic's buyers agents are adept at helping clients find the perfect home, negotiate the offer and coordinate the purchase. Finding a home in the Asheville area market is not an easy job, but Mosaic agents have the necessary skills to find you your dream spot in a tight market!

For more information about selling (or buying) real estate in the Asheville area or Western North Carolina, contact us at Info@MyMosaicRealty.com, or call us anytime at 828-707-9556.

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Nestled amid the breathtaking beauty of Pisgah National Forest sits Bear River Lodge, a picturesque Madison County community that offers amazing access to both exhilarating outdoor adventure and quaint mountain towns. Everything from trout fishing to river rafting to hot springs and spas surrounds Bear River Lodge, only 40 minutes from [...]