It’s been a while since I’ve updated here, in large part because (Yes!) I’ve been busy. We’re seeing some buyers; we’re making a few deals. And though things aren’t as slow as they’ve been for much of the last year or so, we’re still seeing some of the same common trends.

Basically this: buyers are expecting amazing deals and a few are finding them–from sellers who need to sell or who just want to cut bait and put cash elsewhere.

And sellers who don’t have to sell who are just sitting tight and content to do so. As I’ve pointed out a number of times, it’s an ironic benefit for the buyers that the market hasn’t tanked here as it has in many places, showing the overall health of Highlands and the area. They may not find the prices they are hoping for, but they’re still finding value.

After all, the mix that makes Highlands and the surrounding area unique hasn’t changed: cool summer temperatures, awe-inspiring natural beauty, great sports and culture and cuisine. These factors maintain value even in the worst of markets.

Over the last month or so, we’ve seen typical Highlands at its best.

The fall colors are close to their peak as I write this; it’s been a beautiful if not spectacular fall. The temps have dropped, but as of yet, we’ve not seen a frost, which supposedly makes the colors more brilliant.

And rain!!! I know you Atlanta and North Georgia people aren’t impressed, but we’re no longer in a drought up here. The last couple of years have been relatively dry, but that 90-some-odd inches per year that is supposed to be average up here: let’s just say the pendulum has swung. Over a period of a couple of weeks in late September, I’m betting we had 30 inches. I never saw an official number, but based on how many times I poured five inches out of my gauge–it had to be close!

Twice in the last week or so, I’ve had moments: just standing still with colors speckling the world, listening to wind and waterfalls. Makes me, yet again, thankful that I live where I live, able to enjoy this very spot of the world.

*****

Here are a few pics I’ve taken with my I-Phone recently. Not bad, huh? If you have $6.9 mil, this 25 acre parcel can be yours….