Author Noreen Hartkern c. 2012
“The Worst Year in Home Sales History?” 
Wow!  What a Year! Waterfront Continues to Amaze…

So….here we go again….the leading Housing Market Websites showed headlines like:

• “2011 Likely to Be The Worst Home Sales Yet”
• “Record Low New Home Sales 2011″
• “2011 Home Sales and Prices Likely To Be Very Flat”

And on, and on, and on……

What actually ended up happening is pretty amazing….Firstly, let me clear something up. We don’t really have new homes here at the lake….the only new homes right now are those being built by owners of lots….and trust me….we are cringing all the way. Lots are expensive and the cost of construction has not come down—at all—let me say that again….the cost of construction has not come down at all….so what does that mean for you?

Existing homes have so much bang for the buck it’s insane. Let me break it down for you:

What does it cost to build a new home at Smith Mountain Lake?

Depending on your ta$te you’re looking at $116-$200+/sq foot for just the structure. Oh and by the way…things like cathedral ceilings, open-spaced areas and layouts are all extra and a la carte. Why? Because roof lines and interior supports are expensive…think crickets and ice dams, beams, etc…

What that DOESN’T INCLUDE:

oh….gee….do you have an hour?

• The waterfront lot–if you don’t own one, you can figure $100K for a cliff and up to $1.5M for super flat estate type lot.
• a driveway (other than construction gravel)
• municipal, community water hookup or well—figure $4k on the low side
• septic tank and drainfield–figure $4k-$15K depending on the lay of the lot and whether or not you need an engineered field or a pump back septic
• finished basement–oh, figure another $60-$100/sq ft.
• a dock–figure about $35K for a single slip dock IF you can get a permit from AEP and $48K-$100K for something really fancy.
• landscaping–$1000 for just grading and seed with straw and everything else is up to you.

It ASTOUNDS ME That we can talk about a down economy all day long, and yet, NONE of the economic downturn has been passed off to the CONSUMER….Yep….Construction Costs have—if ANYTHING–continued to rise…and that’s not just materials my friends….

So where does that leave us?

That leaves us in 2012, with the knowledge that we can buy an existing home for pennies on the construction dollar…and I mean pennies…..with a simple calculator above you can do the math. I don’t know your taste or circumstances, so pardon me for not extending the numbers for you….

Now, without further ado,  for those of you who love statistics and data, here  were our 2011 Smith Mountain Lake Sales in a nutshell…

182 Smith Mountain Lake Waterfront HOMES  Sold and Closed 2011  [ Only 17 Less Than Last Year ]Click to view listing(s)

33 Smith Mountain Lake Waterfront LOTS  Sold and Closed 2011 [ Only 14 Less Than Last Year ]Click to view listing(s)

83 Smith Mountain Lake ACCESS HOMES  Sold and Closed 2011 [ 14 MORE Than Last Year!!! ]Click to view listing(s)

13 Smith Mountain Lake ACCESS LOTS  Sold and Closed 2011 [ Only 3 Less Than Last Year ]Click to view listing(s)

25 Smith Mountain Lake WATERFRONT  Pending and Poised to CloseClick to view listing(s)

15 Smith Mountain Lake LAKE ACCESS  Pending and Poised to Close  [ 9 MORE Than Last Year ] Click to view listing(s)

this data will no longer be available for viewing on 3/2/2012

THAT’S 351 ROCK-SOLID SALES IN THE MIDST OF WHAT THEY CALLED “A RECESSION, TURNED DEPRESSION”…..YEAH RIGHT! DON’T YOU JUST LOVE PROPAGANDA!???? THAT’S ONLY A TOTAL OF 13 PROPERTIES LESS THAN LAST YEAR!!!

SO…What’s Still Available?

IF YOU’RE ALREADY ON MY LIST, THEN YOU ALREADY KNOW…BUT IF YOU’RE NOT YOU SHOULD ACT NOW!

SIGN UP FOR OUR FREE MLS SERVICE TO FIND OUT!

And in all sincerity, I hope this finds you Happy, Healthy and Prosperous in the New Year!

Cheers!

Noreen

P.S. So….once again, you may be asking yourself those age-old questions:

“Did I miss the recession?”
“Are there any ‘deals’ left?”
“Can I see a whole list of foreclosures?”  You could if there were any!
“What’s Left That I Can ‘Steal’?”

And I can tell you that there are a few deals left, BUT! you need to make written offers in order to get them!

Did you know that you don’t even have to be here physically to do that???

I’m not advising you to do that, but! If you found a home or lot that you absolutely didn’t want to miss out on but couldn’t get here for a week or two, here’s how you could handle that:

You write an offer  “Subject To: Touring the property in person ”(with your spouse, with you business partner, with your home inspector)  and after a successful tour, you remove that “subject to”/”contingency” and then you finalize plans to close on the property.

In this way, if a seller accepts those terms and signs the contract, you will be first in line to tour the property and make your decision. That’s how that’s done, and believe me, it happens more often than not in resort areas because EVERYONE lives out of town before they get here!

Scheduling:
If you are thinking about coming to  the lake  to look at homes, I just wanted to let you know that my  Winter Calendar is as follows: I am available 7 days a week, and weekdays are always easier!

Just let me know by calling or emailing me As soon as humanly possible.
email: noreenhartkern@yahoo.com cell: 540-420-1294

————————————————————————-

Financing:
So many of you can’t wait to fulfill you dream of owning a lake home, and I’m here to help you with that,but you may be wondering how much you can really afford. Contact your local lending institution or if you are looking for a  Smith Mountain Lake Lender, contact one of the following reps and tell them I sent you so that you receive optimum care and guidance!

EMAIL ME IF YOU WANT TO RECEIVE THIS INFORMATION REGULARLY!!!

Noreen Hartkern WAINWRIGHT & CO (AT THE LAKE) 16503 B. T. WASHINGTON HWY MONETA, VA 24121 noreenhartkern@yahoo.com 540-420-1294 http://www.smithmountainlakefronthomes.com/

Bedford County, Virginia Moneta ONLY $199,000
Virginia Woods Subdivision Off Water but just minutes from Smith Mountain Lake.

Beautiful Corner Lot with amazing landscaping, custom fenced backyard perfect for kids or pets! 3 BR, 3 Full Baths, Main Floor Master and Laundry,Eat-In Kitchen! Love to Entertain? You need to see this 16 x 16 Oversized Custom Screen Dining Porch, Full Finished Walkout Basement 2 Gas Fireplaces, 2 Sheds, Gorgeous Gardens, Oversized 2 Car Garage, Convenient to everything and so much more…

For more information: Call Noreen Hartkern 540-420-1294

Wainwright & Company Realtors ONLY $199,000

PRICED FOR IMMEDIATE SALE!

NOREEN HARTKERN WAINWRIGHT & CO., REALTORS (LAKE) 16503 B T WASHINGTON HWY MONETA, VA 24121 Mobile - (540) 420-1294 Fax:(540) 904-4871 noreenhartkern@yahoo.com http://www.smithmountainlakefronthomes.com/

ONLY: $524,900

$120,000 UNDER ASSESSED VALUE

REDUCED $75,000

OWNER’S SELLING DUE TO JOB TRANSFER

Contact Noreen Hartkern to view this wonderful home with fantastic main channel panoramic view of the Smith Mountain Lake Main Channel. This neighborhood allows short-term vacation rentals

Call: 540-420-1294

Anything in this price range will not last!

Super close to the water!

Panoramic Views of Smith Mountain Lake Main Channel!

Seaview Drive, Goodview, VA 24095
List Price $ 399,000

Tags: smith mountain lake | smith mountain lake realty | smith mountain lake real estate | buying smith mountain lake homes | smith mountain lake virginia real estate

This road is 6/10th’s of a mile long and at the end of the road is a private entrance to the home. After the causeway, it’s another minute or so to the rock wall entrance. 5 Acres of land and an unprecedented 1,500 feet of shoreline….most homes have 100′ of shoreline…Now ONLY $1,199,000!

So…after one of the worst Economies since the Great Depression, the question I get asked the most is: “Has anybody bought homes at Smith Mountain Lakethis year…and if so, how did they do it?”

Well…I can tell you this! The answer is a resounding “Yes!”

Hundreds of properties on and with access to Smith Mountain Lake have sold this year…so far….remember…..2011′s not over yet!

From right now….early Autumn 2011 until December 31st, 2011 will be a race to end, to pick up the most incredible deals that the Smith Mountain Lake has seen since about 2002! In some rare cases, people are purchasing lake homes for what their owners paid for them all those years ago. Why? Simple…it’s a second mortgage that probably has a balloon due and people just don’t seem to plan well for these moments! Now is the perfect time to refi something like that, but you need a stable job and income….and interestingly, if you do, you are the minority in our country these days.

TIME TO PUT UP OR SHUT UP—

Seriously….here are the ACTION STEPS you MUST TAKE in order to FULFILL THE AMERICAN DREAM OF OWNING A WATERFRONT HOME:

#1) Contact your lending professional, or ask us for some local lenders.

#2) Get Pre-Qualified for a loan if you need one. A “pre-qual letter” will give you, what I call ”The Buyer’s Edge” and position you to grab a lakefront home when you are ready.

#3) Make plans to get here next weekend….don’t delay! The most incredible deals are scooped up in the worst weather…..when no one else is out looking. Come scout out everything in the fall and buy something this late fall or winter and you will be ready to use your home in 2012!

If you would like a FREE Report to see what’s available on Smith Mountain Lake, go here now and enter your name and email: http://www.smithmountainlakefronthomes.com/free_report.htm

Hope to meet you all this Autumn, no matter where you’re from!

Have a safe trip!

Noreen

Tags:  smith mountain lake | smith mountain lake realty | smith mountain lake real estate | buying smith mountain lake homes | smith mountain lake virginia real estate

#1 Rated Smith Mountain Lake Websites

Smith Mountain Lake Real Estate
Smith Mountain Lake FREE MLS

Smith Mountain Lake Virginia | Westlake: October 8, 2011

Last night the Westlake Cinema was a buzz with the red carpet opening of Smith Mountain Lake’s own “Lake Effects” Movie. The stars came out, as well as, area residents and local business owners for the screening. Limos were stretched from one end of Westlake Plaza to the other.

The plot as seen on IMBD reads as follows:  Sara and Lily grew up at Smith Mountain Lake. Sara became estranged from the family and without explanation moved to Los Angeles to study law. Her sister Lily, an artist, teaches locally and lives with their parents, Ray and Vivian, until Dad dies in an accident. Sara returns to help settle his estate, and all our ladies cross paths with an eclectic group of local oddballs, as they search for a Loch Ness-style monster they believe lurks in the lake’s depths. A few real Smith Mountain Lake characters make appearances. The next week at the lake is filled with adventure, tears, and laughter as Vivian and her two daughters finally understand, through the guidance of Dad’s spirit, if they still belong on the lake, even though Ray is gone. All paths converge at the Smith Mountain Lake Wine Festival, on course for a heart-warming and hilarious collision. As Written by Mike McKay

What a wonderful way to honor the memory of “Lake Effects“ writer Scott Winters, who died earlier this year–he will surely be missed, but his work will live on.

Smith Mountain Lake Lake Effects Movie Increases Waterfront Homeownership Tourism

Local News Outlets and papers are clear to remark that, not only do they foresee tourism increasing in 2012, they are certain that no matter what state you see this Jane Seymour movie in, you will be sure to want to visit Smith Mountain Lake, Virginia and all of it’s beauty and charm. And with this, lakefront lots and waterfront home sales should increase substantially in 2012 and beyond.

Watch for “Lake Effects” coming to your theater or DVD.

This marks the second major movie to be filmed on Smith Mountain Lake, Virginia–the first, was “What About Bob?” in 1991

To learn more about Smith Mountain Lake and obtain FREE Information Click Here.

Although you may not be a fan of Bill Murray or Richard Dreyfuss and their slapstick antics, “What About Bob” is the movie that put Smith Mountain Lake on the map as Southwest Virginia’s Premier Vacation Destination.

The movie setting is supposed to be on  Lake Winnipesaukee, New Hampshire, but yes, ”What About Bob” was filmed in our very own downtown Moneta, and right here on Smith Mountain Lake in 1991. There are several scenes showing Smith Mountain and the dam….. like this one…”I’m sailing…”

But it was also this scene that made any view of Smith Mountain a million dollar view when it comes to real estate…. The coveted view can be seen from both Bedford and Franklin County VA, but it holds a higher price tag to be sure!

So, When “Lake Effects” –our 2011 Smith Mountain Lake Movie, starring Jane Seymour–hits the silver screen near you, make sure you tell your friends that that is where you are looking for your vacation home!

GET YOUR SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKE FREE REPORT

Did you know that the absolute best time to make
a real estate deal is between Labor Day and Christmas Eve?

Seriously, everyone goes out looking for real estate
in the Spring and Summer and you know from experience
that that is peak season for waterfront…both lake and ocean…

That is the perfect time to scout out properties and then lie
in the grass and wait…and watch….

When do people blow it? Waiting until after February 1st…that’s
when listings come back on the market as “New” and top dollar…
The cycle starts over again and the comps are reborn at different
levels than the previous season….
That’s when EVERYONE is looking…
and I mean everyone…

So…my best advice to you is to search for bargains now…

Consider these tips…
do you have a boat?
There are a few homes that are conveying boats with them!
That can be a savings of $10K-$30K right up front!

Are you looking for homes that need a lot of work—
trust me…we have them…and they can be had for
fairly cheaply….you can spend the winter months
getting it ready for Summer 2012.

Are you looking for just a single or double-wide getaway…
again….check with your lender
but KNOW that singles are impossible to finance
and doublewides are very, very difficult…

Do you have cash?
Then let’s make some offers!!!!
the seller can counter offer or quit…
Then we can go make another offer…

There are a few homes on the market
that are overpriced and seem out of line
with what the market is demanding right now
and the sellers are just hoping and praying for an offer…..
I know some of them off hand…
they don’t want to lower the price but are waiting
for a lower bid…this muddies up the playing field
but the seller’s fear is that they would lower their
price below what someone is actually willing to pay….

We can gather a list of these properties by looking
at a large number of days on the market.

The bottom line is this….
It IS a Buyer’s Market….
but you need to know
what that means for YOU.

Just because there might be 400 homes available
on the lake doesn’t mean you can afford them all….
or that a large number of them will appeal to you and
fit your wants and needs.

It’s time to narrow down your search and decide
what you really want.

Once you have a clear picture in your mind and on paper
of what a lake home means to you and your family
you will find it quickly.

The best and most lucrative timeframe to make offers
starts now….

Trust me…you don’t want to wait until February 1st.

Call or email me today and let me know when you’ll be in town!

Where To Stay?

Take Advantage of Off-Season Rates

• Private Home Rentals
• Waterfront Condos For Rent

GET YOUR SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKE FREE REPORT

Happy Labor Day!
Noreen

Reduced $61,000!

Now ONLY:  $539,000

PRICED $106K UNDER ASSESSED VALUE FOR IMMEDIATE SALE! This Wonderful Lake Home is Deceivingly Large and Boasts: 3,032 sq. ft. 2 Kitchens, 2 gas fps an in-law suite, huge MBR & a wetbar in the garage for family reunions. Garage has a screen bay, fan and propane heat and can seat 30. The rear screen porch is 456 sq ft for lake view entertaining, a hidden hobbiest’s workshop and so much more! Paved road to dock, wide water cove just off main channel. Westlake, Convenient to Everything, Including Roanoke and Lynchburg Virginia.

24′ AQUA PATIO PONTOON CONVEYS WITH THIS SALE

To Learn More Visit: http://smithmountainlakefronthomes.com/260HalesPoint.htm

NOREEN HARTKERN
WAINWRIGHT & CO (AT THE LAKE)
16503 B T WASHINGTON HWY
MONETA, VA 24121
Mobile – (540) 420-1294
noreenhartkern@yahoo.com
http://www.smithmountainlakefronthomes.com/

When this home hits the Dupont Registry it will be
gone. Nestled on 5 acres, this home enjoys a
private entry and still all of the comforts of lake life
and community at the water. Maintenance free 5BR
home is perfect for extended families. Shown By
Appointment Only, Call Buyer’s Agent Noreen
Hartkern (540)420-1294 Today!
Smith Mountain Lake Buyer’s Agent Noreen
Hartkern is celebrating 10+ Years as founder of
SmithMountainLakefrontHomes.com and full time
waterfront home sales consultant, coach, blogger
and agent. Find Smith Mountain Lake Virginia Luxury Homes and so much more here: Smith Mountain Lake FREE REPORT

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Well the truth is….there have NEVER been a lot of foreclosures on Smith Mountain Lake, Virginia.  

Foreclosures around the country are at an all time high, and yet, if you look at waterfront property—the most valuable property in the country and around the world—you’ll probably see a trend…there’s not much in the way of foreclusures to choose from.
Why? Because of just that…it’s valuable, and there’s always a hungry neighbor, realtor, builder, developer or family member waiting in the wings to scoop up a sure thing.

So let’s talk quickly about foreclosures….
it’s gotten away from it’s owner…they’ve now missed more than 3 months of mortgage payments and the bank is going to get the property back. What is the condition of the home? Did they leave the keys on the kitchen counter or did they strip it of everything including the toilets? Is the flooring and sub-flooring soiled beyond repair? Is there water damage from neglect or simply from no one being there to care for the home?

In 2004-2005 banks welcomed this REO portfolio because it gave them something back to sell in the high, hot markets. But, now in 2011 and into 2012, the banks do not want REO properties hanging around on their books…. Why? Because it will not only effect their bottom line, it will in turn, effect their rating as a bank.

In 2010 I did not find one bank that was “willing to play” with cash buyers…..but now in 2011 “Cash is Queen”…
You may have heard it as cash is king, but it’s a fact that most women in the household control the budget…hence the expression “tighten the purse strings” and my version

Anyway–it is a cash buyer that is going to get the goods this year….but don’t expect foreclosures to be cheap—remember, the banks lent that money in “good faith” in the past and are due the money back. They are not in too much of a position to bargain and they aren’t really interested in giving you a loan to cover a bad loan. Make sense?

So, if you have CA$H and are ready to play with the banks I’ll send you a foreclosure list today. If you are pre-approved by your own lending institution and have a downpayment and good-faith deposit you may also want to see this list….

Just email me right now at:
noreenhartkern@yahoo.com with the
Subject: “Smith Mountain Lake Foreclosure List Request” or visit  http://www.smithmountainlakefronthomes.com/free_report.htm

and I will send your list out TODAY!
Have A Great Weekend!
Noreen

NOREEN HARTKERN
WAINWRIGHT & CO (AT THE LAKE)
16503 B T WASHINGTON HWY
MONETA, VA 24121
Mobile –             (540) 420-1294
noreenhartkern@yahoo.com
http://www.smithmountainlakefronthomes.com/

$749,000 Owners Negotiable!

http://www.smithmountainlakefronthomes.com/WaltonCove.htm
2 HOMES FOR THE PRICE OF ONE!
Was $825,000 Now $749,000 OWNERS ANXIOUS!
BRING ALL REASONABLE OFFERS 2011!
Home #1 3BR, 2.5 Bath Main House PLUS! Home #2: 2BR, 1Bth Garage Guesthouse in Bedford County, Moneta, VA on super flat lot only: $749,000 .70 Acres 100′ of private shoreline with beach, boatlaunch, boat dock with electric hoist and floaters.

Sellers are “negotiable” and looking at offers NOW. This Smith Mountain Lake Waterfront Home looks at the Smith Mountain Lake State Park so it will have a green view forever as no one can ever build on the land across from it. For More Information on this Featured Smith Mountain Lake House visit:

http://smithmountainlakefronthomes.com/WaltonCove.htm

Why forfeit your opportunity to buy a great deal on

Smith Mountain Lake, Virginia?

Price………that’s the most common answer…
“We can’t afford it…”

I guess the problem with that is this…prices aren’t going down….Yes, there have been some “price reductions”, but overall, each class of home, both waterfront and lake access on Smith Mountain Lake have been holding their own and there are average price ranges across the board for all types of homes.

But here’s the Good News!!

Did you ever consider that you might have options? Have you ever considered “Lake Access”?

Well… not just any lake access, but specifically:

“Lake Access with a Deeded Boat Slip”

Why is a “Deeded Boat Slip” so incredibly important and a rare find on Smith Mountain Lake? Well the answer is simple. They simply don’t do that anymore, and haven’t for years!

The reason it’s so important is also simple:

It saves you money in the long run!

Did you know that the average dock rental for a slip each year runs boaters approximately $2,000-$2,700/year just to rent a boat slip???

That’s an absurd waste of money isn’t it?

What if you could own that slip and the home and use the amenities in the community? That would be a “true lake access” model…again, really hard to find on SML…but there are a few left under $300K!

How about this one? This home is located on Indian Pointe in Westlake and has phenomenal year-round views of the surrounding mountains and Smith Mountain Lake plays with the daylight in the foreground!

Click Here to learn more about this amazing lake getaway for sale for only $269,900 with a deeded boat slip, community pool and picnic pavilion, community boat launch and trailer storage…truly a one-of-a-kind opportunity to own a piece of Smith Mountain Lake for so little!

Let me know if you need any additional information!

All the best!

Noreen

Noreen Hartkern WAINWRIGHT & CO (AT THE LAKE) 16503 B. T. WASHINGTON HWY MONETA, VA 24121 noreenhartkern@yahoo.com 540-420-1294 http://www.smithmountainlakefronthomes.com/

NOREEN HARTKERN REALTOR * 540-420-1294 noreenhartkern@yahoo.com

Tags: smith mountain lake | smith mountain lake realty | smith mountain lake real estate | buying smith mountain lake homes | smith mountain lake virginia real estate

SOLD BUT WE HAVE MORE HERE:

http://www.smithmountainlakefronthomes.com/free_report.htm

Smith Mountain Lake Waterfront Home For Sale: 3,200 sq. ft. | 4BR Plus Office | 3.5 Baths | on .498 acres | 132 Ft Waterfront with Unobstructed Views of Smith Mountain Lake |Fabulous Dock & Cabana with 24′ boatslip and 39′ x 15′ Party Deck | 2 Master Suites | Sleeps 10 or more has been…

Drastically Reduced $200,000!!!!

and is available for a quick sale
to a pre-qualified buyer.

Now Only $695,000!

You can’t build this home for what it is offered at! Builders home, upgrades galore! Don’t miss out!

Furnished Option Available for $725,000

(some personal exclusions apply)

For More Information and a Private Tour,

Contact Noreen Hartkern, Owner/Agent

540-420-1294

noreenhartkern@yahoo.com

Gorgeous lake music by composer Dave Grusin

Happy 4th of July Week!

Wow! Fireworks over the water, the smell of bar-be-ques and the boating adventures!

Well…so many of you said that you were tired of renting and are ready to own a home on Smith Mountain Lake! Seriously, it costs anywhere from $1,000-$4,000 per week to rent here in the summer months and that’s a mortgage payment….so why rent when you can own?

If you purchase one of the few homes left that can be rented on Smith Mountain Lake, you can collect those rentals and offset your mortgage, but hurry, there are so very few short term rentals left here!

Grab your FREE Report and see exactly what’s for sale on Smith Mountain Lake

Call me when you find something because 2010 deals are going fast!

FREE INSTANT ACCESS!

Smith Mountain Lake VA Waterfront Homes Report!

All the best!

Noreen

NOREEN HARTKERN WAINWRIGHT & CO (AT THE LAKE) MONETA, VA 24121 Mobile – (540) 420-1294 noreenhartkern@yahoo.com http://www.smithmountainlakefronthomes.com/

]]> http://smith-mountain-lake-realty.com/smith-mountain-lake-free-mls/feed/ 0 http://smith-mountain-lake-realty.com/smith-mountain-lake-mom-and-dads-50th-anniversary/ http://smith-mountain-lake-realty.com/smith-mountain-lake-mom-and-dads-50th-anniversary/#comments Sun, 01 May 2011 18:22:58 +0000 Noreen Hartkern http://smith-mountain-lake-realty.com/?p=304 Continue reading →]]> For those of you who were unable to make the trip to Virginia to Celebrate Marge & Bud Hartkern’s Golden Wedding Anniversary Party, I have created this blog post.

The only favor I ask is that you
PLEASE LEAVE A COMMENT BELOW-
-anything at all that would be fun and festive so that I can share your comments with my parents.  I hope this brings the celebration to you….
Many thanks to those of you who contributed your photos so that
I could make an accurate chronological re-enactment!
Cheers!

The Pizza Party: April 8th, 2011

Mom and Dad’s Actual 50th Anniversary

It’s Wonderful

“Oh, Happy Anniversary: (Horsing Around with Marc)

“Blow Out the Candles”

“The Flintstones: Happy Anniversary”

“Have I Told You Lately That I Love You” (The Rehearsal)

“Longer” (The Rehearsal)

“The Renewal” April 9, 2011 Resurrection Catholic Church, Moneta, VA

“Margie” Played by Le Hot Club de Big Lick

“Margie Sings Margie”

“My Buddy” The Movie

“Mom and Dad’s Silhouettes” (Watching My Buddy The Movie)

“Have I Told You Lately” (Musical Dedication for Mom–partial recording) Featuring: Nora  Stasio: Vocals & Noreen Hartkern: Vocals and tambourine, Marc Stasio: piano * Joan Stasio: organ, djembe drum, triangle * Joe Stasio: Guitar * Marc Stasio, Jr.: bass * Dave Hartkern: drums

“Longer” (Musical Dedication for Dad) Featuring: Nora Stasio: Vocals & Noreen Hartkern: Vocals and tambourine, Marc Stasio: piano * Joan Stasio:

organ, djembe drum, triangle * Joe Stasio: Guitar * Marc Stasio, Jr.: bass * Dave Hartkern: drums

“Route 66″ Featuring: Marc Stasio: piano * Joan Stasio: organ, * Joe Stasio: Guitar * Marc Stasio, Jr.: bass * Bud Hartkern: trombone, Dave Hartkern: drums, Noreen Hartkern: Vocals

“It Had To Be You” Le Hot Club de Big Lick along with Dave Hartkern, Bud Hartkern, Marc Stasio and Noreen Hartkern

“Our Love Is Here To Stay” Le Hot Club de Big Lick along with Noreen Hartkern, Dave Hartkern and Marc Stasio

“Joan and David Dancing to September Song” by Le Hot Club de Big Lick

Le Hot Club de Big Lick featuring: Dan Adams, Violin * Bob Casey, Guitar * Scott Fore, Guitar * Jeff Hofmann, Upright Bass

I just made my mom and dad a photo book of their 50th on Winkflash.com
Below you can see my page layouts in the book…these are low res images…
I have all of the hi-res photos. The slideshow will automatically play….

Click on the “Pictures” button and scroll back to picture 1
(the picture of them kissing) to start the slide show over again.

Enjoy!

Act Now or Miss Out…

is what we’re hearing from our mortgage reps…..

Yes, although mortgage rates dipped slightly between last week and this week:

Call or Email Me TODAY!

540-420-1294               noreenhartkern@yahoo.com

Noreen Hartkern

Author Noreen Hartkern c. 2011
“The Year They Said It Couldn’t Be Done! 2010″
Wow!  What a Year!

Despite the fact that we were constantly being fed “Gloom and Doom” with a Power Shovel and Bucket Loader….Smith Mountain Lake sales soared.

Remember, This was an exhaustive year of CNN, local news, morning shows all telling us how terrible the economy was, how many people are without J.O.B’s [just over broke] and how real estate would never make a comeback because of the multitude of foreclosures. Well, once again, just like our meteorologists, main street media was dead WRONG! In fact, retail sales during the holidays were at an ALL TIME HIGH in the U.S. with something like $500 million in holiday sales!

So how do you explain that?
Smith Mountain Lake has proven, once again, to be strong and resilient in the face of this downturn, and people are seizing the day and grabbing their  dream homes!

So, for those of you who love statistics and data, here is 2010 in a nutshell…

this data will no longer be available for viewing on 2/1/2011

THAT’S 364 ROCK-SOLID SALES IN THE MIDST OF WHAT THEY CALLED “A RECESSION, TURNED DEPRESSION”…..YEAH RIGHT! DON’T YOU JUST LOVE PROPAGANDA!????

SO…What’s Still Available?

SIGN UP FOR OUR FREE MLS SERVICE TO FIND OUT!

And in all sincerity, I hope this finds you Happy, Healthy and Prosperous in the New Year!

Cheers!

Noreen

P.S. So….once again, you may be asking yourself those age-old questions:

“Did I miss the recession?”
“Are there any ‘deals’ left?”
“Can I see a whole list of foreclosures?”  You could if there were any!
“What’s Left That I Can ‘Steal’?”

And I can tell you that there are a few deals left, BUT! you need to make written offers in order to get them!

Did you know that you don’t even have to be here physically to do that???

I’m not advising you to do that, but! If you found a home or lot that you absolutely didn’t want to miss out on but couldn’t get here for a week or two, here’s how you could handle that:

You write an offer  “Subject To: Touring the property in person “(with your spouse, with you business partner, with your home inspector)  and after a successful tour, you remove that “subject to”/”contingency” and then you finalize plans to close on the property.

In this way, if a seller accepts those terms and signs the contract, you will be first in line to tour the property and make your decision. That’s how that’s done, and believe me, it happens more often than not in resort areas because EVERYONE lives out of town before they get here!

Scheduling:
If you are thinking about coming to  the lake  to look at homes, I just wanted to let you know that my  Winter Calendar is as follows: I am available 7 days a week, and weekdays are always easier!

Just let me know by calling or emailing me As soon as humanly possible.
email: noreenhartkern@yahoo.com cell: 540-420-1294

————————————————————————-

Financing:
So many of you can’t wait to fulfill you dream of owning a lake home, and I’m here to help you with that,but you may be wondering how much you can really afford. Contact your local lending institution or if you are looking for a  Smith Mountain Lake Lender, contact one of the following reps and tell them I sent you so that you receive optimum care and guidance!

EMAIL ME IF YOU WANT TO RECEIVE THIS INFORMATION REGULARLY!!!

Noreen Hartkern WAINWRIGHT & CO (AT THE LAKE) 16503 B. T. WASHINGTON HWY MONETA, VA 24121 noreenhartkern@yahoo.com 540-420-1294 http://www.smithmountainlakefronthomes.com/

Wow…What an incredible year!!!

It’s strange how quickly time goes when it gets to the holidays.

Traditionally we reflect on how lucky we are, our many gifts and blessings of family and friends, great food, great company, and………..

how  the Smith Mountain Lake Market faired!

Well, this year, I’ll keep it short and sweet…

Here are the numbers to know………… 247, 84, 331

247 – Smith Mountain Lake Waterfront Homes, Lots, Condos and Townhomes SOLD AND CLOSED between December 28, 2009 and December 28, 2010

84 – Smith Mountain Lake Access Properties SOLD AND CLOSED between December 28, 2009 and December 28, 2010

———————————————————————————-

That Actually Accounts For A Rock Solid Year:

331 -TOTAL Smith Mountain Lake Related Properties SOLD AND CLOSED between December 28, 2009 and December 28, 2010

If you, or someone you know would be interested in this information in a detailed report, don’t hesitate to contact me at: noreenhartkern@yahoo.com

<or>

if you are interested in receiving FREE Smith Mountain Lake Real Estate MLS, just fill in the form to the right, or visit: http://smithmountainlakefronthomes.com/free_report.htm

Well, as promised, that’s it for today from the Smith Mountain Lake Real Estate Reporting Center! Again, we have the detailed data to support our findings and if you are serious about purchasing Smith Mountain Lake Real Estate in 2011, this is the information that you should have in your possession!

All the Best!

Noreen

and this morning’s was no exception……Here it is thanks to RISMedia and Lowes and their entire article

can be found here:  http://rismedia.com/lowes/8355/9864

Saturday, Oct 16th, 2010
	Brought to you by and sponsored by

For Your Clients: 6 Reasons it Pays to Shop Around Before Choosing a Mortgage By Paige Tepping RISMEDIA, October 16, 2010–You wouldn’t buy a house without shopping around first, right? Then why would you commit to the loan you use to buy that house without making sure you’re getting the best deal possible? From the experts at LendingTree, here are six reasons why it’s essential to take a few minutes to browse before you borrow: 1. To get the best interest rate possible Over the life of a $200,000, 30-year fixed rate loan, a one-tenth of a point difference in interest rate could save or cost you thousands of dollars. 2. To pay lower loan fees Once your loan application is accepted, the lender will get back to you with a good-faith estimate (GFE), including an itemized list of all the costs associated with the loan. If there are any parts of the GFE that you don’t understand, don’t be afraid to ask the lender to explain each fee that is listed. 3. To avoid a prepayment penalty In these transient times, it seems no one stays in their home long enough to pay down their mortgage the old fashioned way: in monthly increments over a period of decades. So you’ll want to be clear on whether the terms of your loan include a penalty if you pay off your mortgage early—either because you move or refinance. 4. To find a lender you feel comfortable with You don’t want any surprises popping up at closing time. Get a lender who is responsive to your questions and is willing to give you the details in writing. 5. To find a lender that specializes in your situation Recent volatility in the mortgage markets means that people with bad credit or little money for a down payment might have to look a little harder to find a lender. 6. To get the rate lock period you want Once you’ve found the lender offering the best mortgage rate and terms, you’ll want to get a written commitment, known as a “lock” that puts in writing that the lender will make the loan to you at that the specified interest rate. The length of the lock can vary from 30-90 days, but many lenders will charge a fee for a rate commitment of longer than a month. Negotiate the lock period that is right for you, depending on when you plan to close on your new home and if interest rates are expected to creep higher during that time.

It’s been quite a while since we’ve had so much excitement here at the lake!  Not since the filming of “What About Bob” with Richard Dreyfuss and Billy Murray has there been so much local buzz….oh, right, and then there was the announcement that David Baldacci, the famous Author was moving in … but now, we have Jane Seymour filming a movie here! Not only at Smith Mountain Lake, but about Smith Mountain Lake!

Here are just a few of the local headlines written in the past few days:

Life Out Loud Films is  filming the movie “Lake Effects,” which is in production now at Smith Mountain Lake, by Producer Sara Elizabeth Timmins of Moneta.

The script called for a formation of PWC riders to pass by the dock of family matriarch Vivian Tisdale, played by Jane Seymour who is best known for her lead role in the long-running TV series, “Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman.”

…In another scene filmed the same day, Seymour joined Dee Dee Bondurant–a local resident– as a passenger on her SeaDoo and the two, followed by actress Tamara Johnson riding solo on another PWC, took off with the posse of “She-Doos” as they departed the cove.

In other news Jane Seymour, who has a major role in the film, will be signing copies of her new book, “Among Angels,” on Friday, Oct. 22 at 5:30 p.m. at The Cottage Gate in Westlake Towne Center. She also will sign books at Barnes & Noble at Tanglewood Mall in Roanoke on Tuesday, Oct. 19 at 6:30 p.m.

We can’t wait until the movie comes out! I hope you’ll all go out and see it!

Needless to say, celeb visits, moves and movies throughout the years have made the lake more attractive for owning property here–why not come and join us?

For film clips of our gorgeous backyard here at Smith Mountain Lake and FREE information click here now!

P.S. The film is not yet released, but the cast and their bios can be found 
here:

All the Best!

Noreen

NOREEN HARTKERN Mobile – (540) 420-1294 noreenhartkern@yahoo.com http://www.smithmountainlakefronthomes.com/ Blog: http://smith-mountain-lake-realty.com/

The fact is, Market Watch posted an excellent article about what’s going on out there in the borrowing world  How about a 30-Year Fixed for 4.19%?
You can check out the whole article here: http://www.marketwatch.com/story/30-year-fixed-rate-mortgage-avg-at-all-time-low-2010-10-14-1025140

How incredible is that? 

Well…I can still remember 14% in the 80′s!!!
Here’s the only problem I see…

We’re running out of inventory below $500K—Yep, you read that right! The loans are so attractive, that homes are moving very rapidly.

So much so, that these are real numbers pulled today, October 14th,2010:
263 Lake Properties have Sold and Closed since Jan 1st and there are another 51 Under Contract right now waiting to close with quite a few of those 51 going under contract since Labor Day!

To have the aforementioned report emailed to you, drop me a quick note at noreenhartkern@yahoo.com

On a lake where the most expensive homes right now on the market hover around $5Million, remember that $500K is an absolute bargain!

Get on Smith Mountain Lake while there’s still time!

Go here to get started:
http://smithmountainlakefronthomes.com/free_report.htm

and let’s talk soon!
Noreen

Wow…when I look at sales and properties under contract
I am constantly reminded that we are doing great here at the lake…it was so busy yesterday on the water and that’s a testament to the economy here and the message that Smith Mountain Lake is alive and well.

What’s interesting and perplexing though, is the number of people who are still waiting for the bottom to drop out….not hundreds of you, but literally thousands of people surveyed by their agents about lake property! That’s a lot of people who are missing out on only a few hundred properties to choose from…….

Here are some secrets that perhaps you don’t understand….when you get listings that say, “reduced….reduced”…and then again in a few days, you get that house again, and it says “reduced”….it’s a marketing tactic by both the seller and their listing agent….

98% of what you receive are NOT my listings….at all…..
I’ve been a “Buyer’s Agent” for almost 10 years here now and want you to know secret tactics which everyone else employs…they THINK they’re savvy….but they’re really not….

You see…you guys are set up with auto emails…which you like to open each day at your leisure…that’s awesome….but here’s one of the tactics agents are using to get you to click on their properties or at least take a look, a million times:

They have a written agreement with their sellers to lower the price let’s say…$100/week….so….you end up seeing that property at least once a week…the perception is that you think prices are going down, down, down. But what’s really happening in your subconscience is this: you either grow to hate that house that you are being forced to see…OR you think I’M sending it because I’m trying to SELL you on a particular house…Nothing could be further from the truth!

At any rate, that tactic seems to backfire more than anything.

Frankly, the only thing that concerns me is when people wait around for years and miss once-in-a-lifetime “recession type” pricing…….this is the last chance to buy low and sell higher at Smith Mountain Lake and I truly see a pattern where people are looking, and looking and not visiting and not taking any action…

I can’t stop agents from doing stupid things with the database….and I can’t make anyone buy lake property, but I CAN tell you that if you want to get in on some real deals then you have to have a plan….and you definitely don’t want to wait until next season because blogs all over the internet have already put out their stastical data showing resort and luxury property sales on the rise….other than Florida and Gulf Coast…of course. AND TO THAT REGION OF THE UNITED STATES, WE SEND OUT OUR HEARTFELT SUPPORT, THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS FOR A QUICK CLEAN UP AND RECOVERY!

You need to know whether or not you need to borrow
a “jumbo” mortgage which is now more than $417,000 loan….Less than a jumbo? Well that’s great! Because mortgage rates are at an ALL TIME LOW!

Do you have 20% to put down? That helps you avoid PMI
Do you have less than 20%? No problem! There are products for that and local lake lenders are here to help…but you will have to pay mortgage insurance.

You only need a small property to get on the lake….later, you can sell that property and bump up with the leverage of what you have gained on your property sale…take the same sized mortgage and get a larger home….some people do this every 2-5 years and work their way up to mansions and estates…..

If you just need a small place on the lake, figure about $330,000 and up—even for a doublewide…and that’s been consistent for the past 4 years. That’s the bare minimum, and for trailers of any kind, you need cash because almost no one will lend on them now……..

So…here are our sales for the lake so far:

Waterfront Sold and Closed:
To See All 86 Click Here

Lake Access Sold and Closed:
To See All 33 Click Here

Smith Mountain Lake Lake Access and Waterfront Under Contract:
To See All 53 Click Here

I certainly hope that these updates help…..the best advice I can give you is to be ready to take action when you see what you want because as you can see, there are already 172 properties off of the table…

It’s time to take action and go grab your American Dream!
Everyone Else is………….What are You Waiting For?

All the best!
Noreen

P.S. The links above will only stay live for 2 weeks…if you would like these reports, you must sign up for a FREE FlexMLS Account by GOING HERE NOW:   http://smithmountainlakefronthomes.com/free_report.htm

ONLY $365,000!

SOLD BUT WE HAVE MORE HERE:

http://www.smithmountainlakefronthomes.com/free_report.htm

Final Reduction of $75,000! Won’t Last Long!

http://www.smithmountainlakefronthome… Smith Mountain Lake Virginia Waterfront Cottage Reduced another $75,000. NOW ONLY $365K COSTS THE SAME AS A LOT! Main Channel Sunsets, Fully Furnished, Short-Term Rental OK 540-420-1294

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NOREEN HARTKERN WAINWRIGHT & CO (AT THE LAKE) 16503 B. T. WASHINGTON HWY MONETA, VA 24121 Mobile – (540) 420-1294 noreenhartkern@yahoo.comFounder Serving Smith Mountain Lake Since 2001 http://www.smithmountainlakefronthomes.com/

Have you been looking, and looking and looking and hoping that the prices will drop, or that some mansion will fall into your lap for $400K?

Forget it…you’re kidding yourself and everyone around you…and even if something like that came along…some of you would not be here to scoop it up…there are still hundred of buyers that live here buying properties as they see them…and yet you have—if you email me today,

“The Buyer’s Edge”…

It’s amazing that folks that were ready to buy, 2 years ago, haven’t taken advantage of last year’s recession-type pricing and are still waiting for the other shoe to drop.

Listen, 9/11, Katrina, riots in Greece, the Euro Crisis and BP have ALL happened during my watch, and year after year, I watch people put their American Dream on Hold because they are so incredibly paralyzed by the crap that CNN feeds us, that they get to the end of the summer saying…

“Well….maybe next year’s my year…”

hoooooooooo hum….?

I’m literally writing to you today to say:

This is YOUR life, and while everyone’s here having fun, you’re still trying to figure out if you’re going to take action sometime this century.

Seriously, I just sold yet, another waterfront gem this week, and those folks will be on the lake on July 15th having barbecues, wake boarding, jetskiing, and chilling on their dock with mojitos. Why?

Because they took inspired action and we looked at 3 dozen homes and started making timed/expiring offers and whoever was the most motivated, took the bait and the rest is history!

• Get a pre-qualifiaction letter from your bank,
• set $5K aside for your “good faith deposit”–This will be applied 100% toward your closing.
• BANKS NEED 30-45 DAYS…LET’S GO!!

INTEREST RATES ARE AT AN ALL-TIME LOW AND THERE ARE SOOOOO MANY PRODUCTS YOU CAN USE TO PAY FOR YOUR LAKE HOME…JUST ASK YOUR LOCAL MORTGAGE REP. IF YOU DON’T HAVE ONE, WE HAVE MANY LAKE MORTGAGE REPS HERE, WHO WORK STRICTLY WITH SECOND AND VACATIONS HOMES READY TO HELP YOU!

Some of you….yes, you know who you are, having been “looking” for over 5 years! OUCH! Do you know that bargains you’ve missed?

ALL YOU NEED IS A LITTLE COTTAGE…800-1100 SQ FEET—AND NO…I’M NOT TALKING ABOUT A SINGLEWIDE…to get started. You can find these for under $400K—which is about the price of a waterfront lot. Wouldn’t you want to use it NOW? Why build when you can buy and have an instant vacation????

It’s waiting for you here, at Smith Mountain Lake, Virginia!

Stop dreaming…start living!
Noreen

PS: You’ve already missed the Poker Run, the ESPN Bassmaster’s Tournament Live on ESPN, Memorial Day, and Joyous Junque…a $75K garage sale…

Don’t miss the 4th of July, The Smith Mountain Lake Wine Festival, SML Chili Cook-off and everything in between!

I WILL PERSONALLY SEND YOU A LIST

THE DAY I HEAR FROM YOU!

CLICK HERE NOW TO GET STARTED!

Noreen Hartkern WAINWRIGHT & CO (AT THE LAKE) 16503 B. T. WASHINGTON HWY MONETA, VA 24121 noreenhartkern@yahoo.com 540-420-1294 http://www.smithmountainlakefronthomes.com/

Smith Mountain Lake Buyer’s Agent Noreen Hartkern is celebrating 10 Years as founder of SmithMountainLakefrontHomes.com and full time waterfront home sales consultant, coach, blogger and agent.

“I have a uniquely laid back approach to real estate…it’s all by the book, but it doesn’t have to be stressful…afterall…Life’s Too Short!

In the past 10 years I’ve been called ‘funny, cool, witty, and intuitive’ by my clients….and while I wouldn’t call myself “cool”…that’s not a bad run, I’d say!”

“What I can tell you is this…I came into this business to bring people together.  In fact, that was my first slogan: ‘Bringing buyers and sellers together…one household at a time…’ and the feeling and sincerity behind it has never changed. The best thing about being a smith mountain lake buyers rep is that you are in a position to truly help people attain, what they’ve set out to achieve.

Noreen Hartkern

Tags: smith mountain lake real estate | smith mountain lake realty | buyers agent for smith mountain lake | smith mountain lake buyers agent | smith mountain lake buyers rep

This Show, You Do Not Want to Miss!

Located at Bridgewater Plaza on HWY 122N at the Hales Ford Bridge.

COME BY BOAT OR BY CAR!!

Dealers Include:

• Webster Marine Center
• Hughes Marine
• Magnum Boating, Inc.
• Smith Mountain Yacht Club
• Virgil Naff Kawasaki-SeaDoo
• Smith Mountain Boat & Tackle

When?

• Friday May 7th noon – 6pm
• Sat May 8th 10am – 6pm
• Sun. May 9th 10am-5pm

FREE ADMISSION * FREE PARKING * FREE BOAT RIDES

YOU CAN ENJOY THE BOAT SHOW AND LOOK AT WATERFRONT REAL ESTATE IN BETWEEN.

CAUTION!!!!

IF YOU ARE LOOKING FOR A WATERFRONT HOME, PURCHASE THAT FIRST! BE SURE THAT YOU DO NOT RUIN YOUR CHANCES OF GETTING A WATERFRONT HOME MORTGAGE BECAUSE YOU PURCHASED YOUR BOAT FIRST!

FOR A FREE SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKE REAL ESTATE REPORT CLICK HERE NOW!

So…after one of the worst winters in the past 15 years, the question I get asked the most is: “Has anybody bought homes at Smith Mountain Lake this year…and if so, where did they come from?”

Well…I can tell you this! The answer is a resounding “Yes!” And the rest of the answer may surprise you….although it IS highly logical!

As I’m writing this, I’ve already sold about $3 Million in waterfront homes since January, and everyone was LOCAL!

Seriously, who else would’ve even been able to travel in the crazy weather we had this winter?! So now the question you may be asking yourself is: “What cities are local to Smith Mountain Lake, Virginia?”

I’m seeing a completely new trend. Buyers are coming from in-state; Roanoke, Reston, Herndon, Martinsville, Charlottesville, Forest (a suburb of Lynchburg), the greater Washington D.C. area, and from North Carolina we’ve had Raleigh-Durham, Winston-Salem, Charlotte and Greensboro just to name a few!

And what’s even better is that these folks are able to get here quickly and use their properties even more than the average vacation goer.

We still have an influx of New Jersey and New York boomers and retirees coming to Smith Mountain Lake, VA and it’s still a fun melting pot for people of all ages and all backgrounds. Having watched the trends since 2001 though, I can tell you that being local has recently been synonymous with being a buyer.

If you would like a FREE Report to see what’s available on Smith Mountain Lake, go here now and enter your name and email:  http://www.smithmountainlakefronthomes.com/free_report.htm

Hope to meet you all this summer, no matter where you’re from!

Have a safe trip!

Noreen

Tags:  smith mountain lake | smith mountain lake realty | smith mountain lake real estate | buying smith mountain lake homes | smith mountain lake virginia real estate

As many of you know, second homes, luxury homes and vacation homes do not qualify for the tax credit which is due to expire in mere hours….what you may not realize though, is that if you were thinking about “bumping up” your primary home here at the lake and were already ready to make that move, you need to get the home you are interested in purchasing under contract within the next 2 days and you can still meet the cut-off! Many lake lenders are happy to discuss financing options and I have several contacts for you if you are interested in a quick response to your financial solution!

Email me today for more information: noreenhartkern@yahoo.com

The $8,000 tax credit for first-time home buyers and the $6,500 tax credit for repeat home buyers expire on April 30, 2010. However, service members who were on official extended duty outside of the United States for at least 90 days between Jan.1, 2009 and May 1, 2010, may qualify for a one-year extension

If a binding sales contract is signed by April 30, 2010, home buyers have until June 30, 2010 to complete the purchase. This is possible if you act tonight through Friday only!!!

If you are in a position to write a contract and looking for an agent who is available to accomodate that in the next 48 hours, call me immediately at 540-420-1294

All the best!

Noreen

NOREEN HARTKERN WAINWRIGHT & CO (AT THE LAKE) MONETA, VA 24121 Mobile – (540) 420-1294 noreenhartkern@yahoo.com http://www.smithmountainlakefronthomes.com/ Serving Smith Mountain Lake since 2001