Asheville NC, not just for Floridians any more.

Asheville has always been a destination area. Evident as far back as Mr. Vanderbilt’s days, people have flocked to the Appalachian Mnts. for many different reasons. Some of the current attractions one might note include the Biltmore House, Grove Park Inn, downtown night life, music, endless outdoor activities, fine dining, art galleries, and other various shopping. Even looking back to one hundred years ago people would often come to this area for it’s healing purposes. A myth then was the mountain air was good for lung ailments such as TB. Over the last 5-10 years we have had a steady surge in the real estate market here. Although prices have risen, we have not had an over bearing “spike” like many other markets have endured. Our market has enjoyed 6%-10% averages of the last decade with certain localized sectors soaring above that. This steady, somewhat slower growth, has proven Asheville to be more resistant to the national real estate crisis. The idea of investing in a more stable market has attracted buyers from all around the world. From a national standpoint, we are seeing the most buyers coming from Florida, California, New York, New Jersey, Ohio and even Colorado. My personal experience has been more so with Fl, NY, and NJ. A combination of high taxes, high insurance (if you can get it in FL), potential climatic catastrophe, and extreme hot/cold weather has pushed many people out of this environment and into our more stable one. From a geologic perspective, our mountains are old. This stability gives us decreased chances in a catastrophic earthquake. We are far enough in from the coast where we only get kick off rains from hurricanes, and it’s hard for a tornado to form in the mountains. All of these factors combine for a pretty safe place to live. As a real estate agent, I welcome any and all business, no matter where you are from. I grew up in the South and enjoy sharing my southern hospitality whenever possible. This actually brings up a very interesting point. What happens when you mix good ol’ fashion local mountain folk with big city transplants? I have heard mixed reviews on this. I would be curious to hear if any of you have had one of these experiences.