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    The benefits of working with an experienced Realtor

    Happy couple and their real estate agent using laptop in the office.

    Happy couple and their real estate agent using laptop in the office.

    If you’re buying or selling a home, it’s important to work with a real estate professional who can guide you through the process and help you achieve your real estate goals like knowing the features to look for in a luxury home.

    In choosing the right Realtor, one of the things to consider is experience. How long has the agent been in business? Are they knowledgeable in the market you’re interested in? Have they worked on the type of property you want to buy or sell? While it’s perfectly alright to work with someone who’s new in real estate, there’s no substitute for genuine, first-hand experience.

    Here are the benefits you get when you work with an accomplished Realtor with a track record of success.

    1. They have learned from their mistakes

      As with most professionals in any other field, real estate agents are also bound to make a few mistakes, especially when they’re just starting out. A successful, experienced Realtor would have picked up valuable lessons from their mistakes. They now know what to avoid, can anticipate potential problems, and provide solutions based on situations they’ve encountered in the past.

    2. They’re highly familiar with the market

      As the adage goes, real estate is local. Each locality has different market trends and nuances, even within the same town or city. A Realtor who has been serving the same area for a long time knows the ins and outs of the market, allowing them to provide their clients with comprehensive and informed guidance and advice.

    3. They have honed their negotiation skills

      Negotiation is essential in a real estate transaction, whether you’re the buyer or the seller. In most cases, real estate agents do the negotiating on behalf of their clients. With years of experience behind them, many veteran Realtors have developed the intuition and subtlety needed to get all parties to agree to a mutually beneficial deal.

    4. They have developed a network with reliable vendors and services

      One of the benefits you get from working with a Realtor is access to a network of professionals whose services are essential in a real estate transaction. These include mortgage lenders, real estate attorneys, appraisers, title companies, inspectors, and more. A veteran Realtor would have developed strong relationships with time-tested companies who can help you with your needs.

    5. They know how to succeed in any kind of market

      The real estate market can constantly fluctuate and go from a sellers’ market to a buyers’ market over a span of a few years. A long-time Realtor would have experienced all kinds of market, and knows how to navigate each one based on previous results.

    6. They have developed a solid reputation

      A Realtor’s network often includes other real estate professionals, including agents, brokers, and developers. This gives them fast and early access to off-market properties, newly-listed homes, and new construction. An experienced Realtor’s connections and reputation can lead to less difficulty in arranging private showings or connecting with a buyer’s or seller’s representative.

    With over 30 years of experience as a Realtor in Smith Mountain Lake, I know what it takes to help you achieve your real estate goals especially with investing here. Put my expertise to work for you. Call me at 540.493.1690 or send an email to Jane(at)JaneAtTheLake(dotted)com.

    Things to do to make the most out of your Smith Mountain Lake vacation

    Canoe at Sunset

    Canoe at Sunset

    Vacationers and residents alike will find plenty of things to do in the most popular lake in Virginia, Smith Mountain Lake. Check out these fun activities.

    1. Visit SML Park

      This 37-acre community park offers swimming and fishing opportunities in a well-maintained environment. Spend a quiet afternoon on the fishing pier, claim a table in the picnic area, or rent a kayak and head for the water.

    2. Go out on the water

      SML Sailing School and Charters will teach you the basics of sailing and racing. The school also offers half-day sailing charters for groups of up to four people– navigate the waters of SML for a cruise you won’t forget.

      Virginia Dare Cruises, meanwhile, offers private and specialty charters for those who want to go sight-seeing. It can also be leased for special occasions like weddings, birthdays, and anniversaries.

    3. Go to Smith Mountain Lake Alpaca Farm

      Those who are confused about the difference between an alpaca and a llama can visit the SML Alpaca Farm to get educated and to meet a whole bunch of alpacas that call this place home. Also, learn about the rapidly growing alpaca industry and about alpaca fiber as an alternative to wool.

      Visiting the farm gives you the opportunity to interact with these amazing creatures. There’s also an on-site gift shop that sells high-quality alpaca scarves, blankets, and pillows.

    4. Attend a concert

      Harvester Performance Center has two stages and a seating capacity of approximately 460. Discover local and national talent at this prestigious entertainment venue. Past performers here include Edwin McCain, Don McLean, The Clark Family, and Fireside Collective. Bring the whole gang and get ready for a great time.

    5. Look at art

      The banks of SML is home to a thriving art scene. The Little Gallery has a fantastic collection of fine art and specialty gifts. Located in Historic Downtown Roanoke, art enthusiasts and collectors will appreciate the sculpture, paintings, jewelry, and glass art on display. They also have a corporate artwork program that includes services like custom framing, art installation, and art consultation and acquisition.

      Drop by SER Art Stained Glass Studio to see some gorgeous stained glass, glass paintings, and metal and wire work. Resident artist Shelly La Treill has over 25 years of experience in her craft and does custom orders.

    6. Eat out

      SML has an exciting restaurant scene, so don’t miss the chance to eat at any of the local establishments. Enjoy waterfront views while feasting on pan-seared Chilean sea bass and Peruvian roasted chicken at The Landing Restaurant. This upscale dining spot is the go-to restaurant for dinner dates, luncheon meetings, anniversaries, and other occasions. Come by boat or by car!

      The Blackwater Café serves Angus beef burgers, homemade meatballs, and other great dishes. This family-owned and operated restaurant offers seasonal dishes using fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

      For made-to-order sushi, come to Edo Grill and Sushi. Bestsellers include the volcano roll, rainbow roll, and the sushi lunch specials. They also serve Chinese dishes like sesame chicken and lo mein shrimp.

    7. Buy fresh produce

      Come to Boones Mille for this one-of-a-kind indoor market. Housed in an old lumber kiln for a modular housing factory, Boones Mill Market Place is a great stop for fresh produce and tasty treats like pumpkin bread, fall salad, apple muffins, and fried apples.

      The need for local agricultural producers in the area to have a farm-to-market outlet for their produce gave life to this market in 2017. Now, even merchants of artisanal items and food vendors are making their presence felt here.

    8. Go to an event

      SML hosts a series of annual events throughout the year. Come to SML Beer & BBQ Festival for the best BBQ and craft beer by the lake and groove to top hits by live bands. Then bring ye ol’ mateyswidya to SML Pirate Weekend, which features parades, fireworks, and swashbuckling mock water battles.

      Raise your goblets and mugs at the SML Wine Festival, where representatives from almost 30 local wineries and five breweries showcase their ales and spirits. There’s also the SML Fall Chili & Craft Festival, a highly anticipated event that lets you taste the best chili and craft beers while taking in the beautiful lakeside setting.

      Check out the SML Regional Chamber of Commerce for upcoming events and activities.

    Explore SML’s luxury real estate market. Let me, Jane Sullivan Horne, help you find the perfect home. Call me at 540.493.1690 or send an email to Jane(at)JaneAtTheLake(dotted)com.

    Top features luxury home buyers are looking for

    Modern Kitchen Living Room Hone design with open concept

    Modern Kitchen Living Room Hone design with open concept

    New trends in luxury home conveniences like outdoor dog showers and customized candy machines are being introduced to the luxury market. But still, there are several features that never go out of style and can go well with your renovation for an opulent vibe. Here are some of them.

    1. Open floor plans

      A Coldwell Banker survey revealed that open floor plans are in high demand among top-tier buyers. They prefer a single, expansive space where members of the household can interact with each other while going about with their business.

      Moreover, buyers no longer seethe kitchen, dining room, and living room as formal, separate spaces. The act of preparing meals in the kitchen –out of sight of guests –and bringing food to a dedicated dining room is a thing of the past.

      Open floor plans are ideal for entertaining, and luxury buyers want homes where they can show off their cooking skills while talking to their guests.

    2. Outdoor living

      Outdoor space is the ultimate luxury, especially in a coveted area like Smith Mountain Lake. Spacious yards, viewing decks, outdoor kitchens, BBQ grills, and comfortable seating and dining areas are requisites for a luxury home. These features allow buyers to enjoy SML’s unique lakeside setting.

      High-profile buyers also want a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor areas with the illusion of a large, singular space. This seamlessness is often achieved with the use of glass panel doors, flooring material, and overhead structures.

    3. Spa-style bathrooms

      It’s not enough for luxury bathrooms to have trendy avant-garde fixtures and marble counters. Luxury buyers want to feel like they’re stepping into a spa when they walk through the door. This means large, jetted tubs and walk-in showers with multiple showerheads and sprays. Massive vanities, plush chairs, and motion sensor faucets complete the package.

    4. Professional grade kitchens

      The kitchen is the heart of the home, and luxury buyers expect no less than high-end appliances. The growing popularity of cooking and restaurant management shows has also created a demand for specialty appliances like convection ovens and steamers. In other words, if it’s good enough for a chef, then it should be good enough for top-tier buyers.

      Large kitchen islands are the norm, as is custom cabinetry with pullout drawers. Storage space in the form of walk-in pantries is also a must for luxury buyers.

    5. Wine cellars

      Wine cellars are no longer just meant for storage – they now serve as showpieces that put the homeowner’s personal collection on full display. Glass cases with custom lighting can draw guests’ attention to rare vintages.

      These cellars also double as tasting rooms where guests can sit down and sample wines from the collection. That means comfortable seating, proper ventilation, and a full entertainment system with sound and flat-screen TVs.

    6. Showroom garages

      Car collectors need garages that double as showrooms that will allow them to put their vehicles on display. Most showroom garages can accommodate 16 to 20 cars, depending on the design. These are ideal spaces for entertaining, with seating areas, bars, pool tables, surround sound systems, and flat-screen TVs. These garages are also equipped with sophisticated security systems to help safeguard valuable cars.

    Putting a luxury home in the market? Let me, Jane Sullivan Horne, help you find qualified buyers. Call me at 540.493.1690 or send an email to Jane(at)JaneAtTheLake(dotted)com.

    Home renovation ideas for an opulent vibe

    imaginary home
    If you want to sell your home for top dollar, it needs to look the part. Give your home a luxurious look with these tips:

    1. Go for a minimal look

      In making your home look expensive, always remember that less is more. This minimalist approach makes your home look simple and sophisticated instead of messy or disorganized. To start, get rid of any unnecessary furniture and accessories. Keep the ones that you really need instead of the ones that you want. And when you go shopping for home furniture and decoration, buy fewer items instead.

    2. Improve the lighting

      Great lighting does wonders for any home. It immediately makes the space feel larger and enhances the look and mood of your home. For your house to look more elegant and expensive, pendant lights can add a more luxurious feel to your living space.

      Having a dimmer switch also adds to a home’s appeal. With a simple adjustment in the light’s brightness, your home will immediately feel warm and cozy.

    3. Mix and match different textures

      Don’t be afraid to mix and match different textures with your home’s interior décor. Having these elements in your home will immediately create an intriguing visual that will make you home’s interior look more sophisticated and custom-designed.

      Textures such wood, metal, and glass actually go well together because they contrast each other. To create a harmonious look among different textures, play with a variety of patterns until you find the right combination.

    4. Make use of textiles

      Another easy way to make your home look more expensive is to incorporate more textiles, especially when it comes to your throw pillows and rugs. Use interesting textiles such as a faux fur blanket or a jute rug. You can also add a textural throw pillow on a sofa or chair for a cozier look.

    5. Add molding

      There’s something about moldings that give homes a more elegant look. Crown molding, in particular, is often linked with upscale and expensive homes. This decorative finish is embellished along the point where the wall and the ceiling meet.

      Since you’re going for an expensive and minimalist look, use modern crown molding styles. You can also make use of ornate and layered crown molding for a more formal and regal-looking appearance.

    6. Hang art on the walls

      Art makes a home feel more personal. It also makes a great centerpiece for when you have guests over, especially if the artwork is large in size. You don’t have to pay thousands just to have great art hanging on your walls.

      You can search for affordable yet eye-catching pieces in thrift stores, secondhand shops, and flea markets. Or you could just make them yourself! All you need are a giant canvas and your chosen medium.

    Let me, Jane Sullivan Horne, get your Smith Mountain Lake home ready for sale. I am a trusted real estate professional with more than 28 years of home selling experience. Get in touch with me today at 540.493.1690/800.858.4653 or Jane(at)JaneAtTheLake(dotted)com.

    A buyer’s guide on mortgage pre-approval

    new house

    Many real estate agents strongly advise home buying clients to get a mortgage pre-approval letter before shopping for houses. But what is a mortgage pre-approval exactly?

    Here’s everything you need to know about this crucial home buying step:

    What is a mortgage pre-approval?

    A mortgage pre-approval is a letter from your lender that determines the amount of money you can borrow and your interest rate. Pre-approval is offered by several financial institutions such as banks, mortgage lenders, mortgage brokers, and credit unions. Although getting pre-approved isn’t an assurance of a loan, it does get one foot in the door.

    A mortgage pre-approval is also different from a mortgage pre-qualification. While you must submit documentation regarding your income, assets, and debt for pre-approval, you only need to give an overview of these statements for pre-qualification.

    A granted pre-approval is applicable for around 90 days so it would be best to purchase a new home within this period.

    Why do I need mortgage pre-approval?

    Sellers are more confident to work with buyers who have pre-approval, as compared with the ones who don’t. When you are pre-approved, it shows sellers that you are serious and financially ready to purchase their home. And since you now have an idea of how much you can actually afford, you’ll have an easier time looking for homes that are within your budget.

    Requirements for a mortgage pre-approval

    To qualify for mortgage pre-approval, you must submit the following requirements to your lender:

    • Proof of income – To check how stable your income is, lenders will require you to give copies of your last two pay slips or pay stubs, along with your income tax returns.
    • Proof of assets – Bank statements from your checking and savings accounts must be presented to show the lender that you are financially capable of paying the home’s down payment, closing costs, and other home buying-related expenses.
    • Credit information – Your credit score is also important when it comes to qualifying for pre-approval. An ideal credit number would be a FICO (Fair Isaac Corporation Lenders) score of 620 and above. Any number below that means you have to pay a higher down payment.
    • Proof of employment
    • Driver’s license
    • Social security number

    Tips for getting pre-approved

    • Avoid making any other big financial decisions such as applying for a new credit card, taking a new job or using a huge chunk of your savings account. Doing so could affect your eligibility to qualify for pre-approval. Lessen and manage your stress during this home-hunt.
    • Start paying off your debts and make sure that your bills are paid on time. Whether you’re applying for pre-approval or an actual mortgage loan, the lesser you owe, the better.
    • Know your credit score before applying. If you’re not sure whether your credit score makes the cut or not, head to the Annual Credit Report website to get a free report.
    • Don’t get discouraged if you don’t qualify. Work on improving your finances and credit score then once you’re confident, you can apply again.

    Ready to buy a home and live in Smith Mountain Lake, VA? Get in touch with me, Jane Sullivan Horne, at 540.493.1690/800.858.4653 to start your home buying journey. You may also send an email to Jane(at)JaneAtTheLake(dotted)com.

    Important questions to ask a home seller

    financial advisor

    Before you fully commit to buying a home, there are several things that need clarifying from a seller about their property. After all, making a home purchase is a huge financial decision and requires a good way of managing stress so it won’t be overwhelming. That’s why it pays to be prepared and to know as much as you can before you make that big leap.

    Here are 6 important questions for you to ask:

    1. Have there been any problems with the house?

      Sellers are typically obligated to disclose information about their home for sale and this differs from state to state. Virginia is among those states where home sellers are not required to disclose defects or flaws in their home. But the condition is that they must answer truthfully and honestly when asked questions about their home.

    2. Ask the seller if they have encountered any past problems with the house and how they dealt with it. While these problems may have been fixed or repaired already, it’s still best to know about it in case these recur.

    3. What’s the history of the house and how old is it?

      The age and history of the house can let you know more about its condition. The home’s roof, in particular, is an important subject to be addressed. An article from TheBalance.com states that a roof typically lasts for about 15 to 50 years. Its life expectancy depends on the kind of roofing material used. Knowing this information can give you a heads-up on the kind of maintenance required.

    4. Why are you selling your home?

      The most common reasons why sellers put their houses up for sale is because they’re upgrading, downsizing, moving for work or retiring. Knowing the seller’s reason for moving can give you more room for negotiation. If the seller is in a hurry to move, you could negotiate for a lower price.

    5. How long has the home been in the market?

      Another way to negotiate with the seller is to ask how long their home has been in the market. There are a number of reasons why a home stays in the market for a while – it’s because it’s priced too high, it’s not staged well or it’s in a bad condition.

    6. What’s in the neighborhood?

      Try to get as much information as you can about the house’s neighborhood. Where is the nearest grocery store? Are there any good restaurants in the area? Where are the schools located? Is the home part of an HOA (Homeowners’ Association)? How are the noise levels?

      Knowing the answers to these questions can help you figure out what to expect when you move into that particular neighborhood.

    7. Did I forget to ask anything?

      And lastly, ask the seller if you may have missed any questions. A good home seller would be more than happy to provide you with any information that you need.

    If you’re thinking about buying a home at Smith Mountain Lake, VA, do get in touch with me, Jane Sullivan Horne. I am a top-producing Realtor with over 28 years of real estate experience. Call me today at 540.493.1690/800.858.4653 or send an email to Jane(at)JaneAtTheLake(dotted)com.

    7 Smart Features to Include in Your Next Home Upgrade

    smart features for your home Person using home automation to control lighting, heating, air conditioning … etc in modern apartment with fireplace, large windows with blinds, wooden floor and concrete ceiling.

    Homebuyers today have become ever more discerning. They’re not just looking for a state-of-the-art kitchen or a well-appointed master bedroom, they’re also looking for convenient and money-saving features. If you’re looking to renovate your home, consider including these clever upgrades:

    LED there be Lights

    Here’s a bright idea: replace fluorescent or incandescent lights with LED bulbs, which consume up to 80% less energy. LED lights can also be integrated into home automation systems, allowing you to turn them on or off remotely with your smartphone. For even more savings, install occupancy sensors, which scan a room for people and turn off the light automatically if there aren’t any.

    Gadget-friendly Sockets

    Isn’t time to upgrade your home to suit today’s gadget-centric world? A great way of doing so is by adding built-in USB ports into your power outlets. This simple but useful feature lets you plug in smartphones, tablets, and other devices without the need for adaptors. A USB socket that outputs 4.8 amps should be enough to power most gadgets.

    Master Your Thermostat

    Thermostats should be adjusted according to the the season to maximize savings, but many homeowners forget to do so. With a smart thermostat, however, you can set desired temperatures throughout the day and throughout the year, so you only ever have to program it once. Your power company may even offer a rebate for installing such power-saving devices, making them truly a smart investment.

    Stress-free Lawn Care

    There’s nothing quite as beautiful as a verdant front lawn. Unfortunately, up to 60% of urban fresh water is used just to maintain front yards. Luckily, there are now smart irrigation controllers that utilize evapotranspiration calculations to determine the optimal time and amount of water to use on your lawn. With this simple tweak, you can save up to 7,600 gallons of water each year.

    All-natural Energy

    Installing solar panels can make your home more self-reliant, and potentially save you thousands of dollars in electricity costs. Though the upfront cost can be rather significant, there are federal tax credit programs that can offset your expenses.

    Outsmart Intruders

    Aside from making everyday living more convenient, smart upgrades can also make your home safer. Integrate an alarm panel into your home automation system, and it will send you a mobile alert if doors or windows are forcibly opened. Likewise, a smart lock automatically bolts a door when you exit the house, so you’ll never have to worry about forgetting to lock the front door.

    Level Up Your Smoke Detector

    Get more peace of mind by swapping out your old smoke detectors with a smart one. These devices send you phone alerts when they detect smoke, letting you report home fires even if you’re out and about. Another convenient feature: they’ll also notify you when the battery is running low, so you’ll never be caught off guard.

    Not quite sure where to begin with smart home upgrades? Jane Sullivan Horne can help!

    As one of the most trusted real estate professionals in the Smith Mountain Lake area, she has an extensive network of experts who can provide guidance to you. Give her a call at 540.493.1690 or 800.858.4653 or send an e-mail to Jane(at)JaneAtTheLake(dotted)com.

    7 DIY Projects You Should Leave to the Experts

    a man fixing the bathroom plumber at work in a bathroom, plumbing repair service, assemble and install concept

    There’s a certain pride that comes with DIY work, especially around the house. But the smart homeowner knows that some projects should never be undertaken by unskilled hands. To avoid injury and property damage, leave these renovation work to the pros:

    Flooring Revamp

    While floor renovation might seem like an easy DIY project, it’s far more complicated than you’d expect. To begin with, you may need special equipment to rip out the old flooring safely and efficiently. Laying down new flooring material requires very precise steps that, if not done correctly, could mean starting all over again. You may also find that the sub-floor is already cracked or rotten, and it would need to be fixed before any other work can commence.

    Roofing Work

    Replacing a few shingles is a fairly simple task that most homeowners can do themselves. However, bigger repairs (and especially replacement) should be tackled only by professionals due to the very real risk of falling from your roof. What’s more, poor workmanship might lead to a leaky roof, which poses a fire and electrical hazard.

    Window Replacement

    Replacing your old windows is a great way of improving your home’s energy efficiency. But for this upgrade to pay dividends, the windows need to be installed correctly to create an airtight seal. Otherwise, the cold/warm air from your HVAC unit will simply keep leaking. Moreover, windows are very fragile, and require expert handling to avoid damaging them.

    Major Plumbing Work

    Every homeowner should know how to fix a leaky pipe or a clogged sink. However, installing a bathtub or a new shower should never be done DIY, as these require accessing pipes inside walls or underneath flooring. Plumbing experts give this rule of thumb: if you can see what you need to do, you can DIY it. Otherwise, call the pros.

    Stove and Oven Installation

    A major aspect of kitchen renovation is replacing cooking ranges and ovens. But don’t be tempted to DIY this project, as natural gas is potentially explosive and poisonous. And if you’re switching from gas to electric, you’ll need a certified electrician to make sure the wiring is up to code.

    Electrical Wiring

    Speaking of electrical work, this is yet another project that even seasoned DIY enthusiasts should leave alone. Aside from potential electrocution, shoddy electrical work can also cause disastrous house fires. What’s more, many electrical projects require a permit before you can even begin work. Not only will you be putting yourself and home at risk, you may also risk breaking the law.

    Tree Pruning

    Overgrown trees aren’t just an eyesore, their falling limbs can also injure your loved ones and damage surrounding property. That said, resist the urge to pull out the chainsaw and lop off the offending branches yourself. Handling heavy equipment like chainsaws is no small matter, and there’s also the risk of falling from your ladder and sustaining injuries.

    Given the time and money you’ll save, it truly makes more sense to leave these projects to the pros.

    Need a referral to trustworthy contractors around Smith Mountain Lake? Feel free to get in touch with Jane Sullivan Horne at 540.493.1690 or 800.858.4653 or via Jane(at)JaneAtTheLake(dotted)com.

    7 Home Inspection Mistakes Buyers and Sellers Should Avoid

    Closeup Of Magnifying Glass And Green Paper House On Wood

    Closeup Of Magnifying Glass And Green Paper House On Wood

    You’ve found the perfect buyer or seller. You’re happy with the price. All that’s left is an inspection and you’re ready to close on the property. However, this crucial step can derail a done deal if not handled correctly. Below are some mistakes that all buyers and sellers should keep an eye out for:

    Choosing the Cheapest Inspector

    A home purchase will cost you good money, so it’s tempting to cut corners and scrimp on your inspector. However, the cheapest inspectors often have the least experience, meaning they might miss or gloss over defects. Luckily, your real estate agent can give you a list of trustworthy inspectors they’ve worked with before.

    Not Inspecting the Home Prior to Selling

    You might choose to relegate the pre-sale inspection to the buyer, but doing so is not always wise. Should buyers find problems during the inspection, you’ll have to do repairs on the double or risk delaying the sale date. That’s why it pays to conduct an inspection before selling so you have more time to address issues.

    Skipping the Actual Inspection

    A typical home inspection takes at least half a day, which is why many buyers and sellers skip it. However, this is a golden opportunity to ask inspectors about problems as they’re spotted. For the seller, it’s a chance to better understand a defect and how it can be fixed. For the buyer, this is a chance to see the house up close and do your own visual inspection.

    Being in the Way of the Inspector

    On the flip side, don’t be overly involved that you become a hindrance. It’s perfectly fine to accompany the inspector during his rounds, but don’t be too chatty as he might get distracted and miss something. Moreover, resist the temptation to do their job for them; you’re paying for their expertise, so leave the inspecting to the certified inspector.

    Expecting a Perfect Report

    It’s hard not to feel affronted when an inspection uncovers flaws in your house, but don’t overreact. A typical report will contain as many as 100 problems, but a vast majority of them will be minor. Read the report thoroughly to understand the magnitude of each issue, and don’t hesitate to ask the inspector what can be done. Likewise, buyers shouldn’t interpret the report as a knock on the property, but rather as a guide for improvements.

    Not Inspecting a New Construction

    If it’s new, it’s problem-free, right? Surprising as it sounds, even a newly built house can have egregious defects and code violations like an uneven foundation or problematic wiring. In fact, you’d be wise to get two inspections. The first should be done before the walls are closed, and covers the framing and systems installation. The second one should be done after completion, and should cover all the points in a standard inspection.

    If you hire a trusted professional and keep the results of an inspection in perspective, you should be well on your way to selling or buying a home. If you need professional advice on home sales, get in touch with Jane Sullivan Horne at 540.493.1690 or 800.858.4653 or via Jane(at)JaneAtTheLake(dotted)com.

    Membership Opportunities at the Waterfront Country Club

    Business colleagues playing round of golf on green course

    Business colleagues playing round of golf at Waterfront Country Club

    The Waterfront Country Club is one of the premier golf communities in Smith Mountain Lake. It’s also an exclusive private club. There are, however, many opportunities available to join. In this blog post, we’ll discuss the benefits of a Waterfront Country Club membership and how you can become a member.

    Membership Inclusions

    Members of the Waterfront Country Club are entitled to a variety of perks, such as access to the country club’s premier golf course, fitness center, and other facilities. As a member, you are also guaranteed an invite to many of the club’s social events. The following benefits are included in the regular membership at Waterfront Country Club:

    • Access to members-only golf tournaments
    • Access to men’s and ladies’ golf associations
    • Invites to social gatherings and functions
    • Access to social committees
    • Access to the fitness center and other facilities
    • Access to personal account
    • Four-time access to the Water’s Edge Country Club, which includes dining access, per year
    • Weekly tee time schedules given in advance
    • Golf classes from the Waterfront Country Club’s professional instructors
    • Full service in the Waterfront Country Club’s amenities, including the clubhouse, fitness center, swimming pool, golf course, and tennis/pickleball courts

    2018 Membership Opportunities at the Waterfront Country Club

    This year, the Waterfront Country Club extends its membership opportunities to interested individuals. Join the club now with zero initiation fee, which can lead up to savings of over $7,500. To learn more about this membership opportunity, visit this page.

    To qualify for a membership at the Waterfront Country Club, you simply need to submit your payment for the application and prorated membership fees a month before the closing date of the property. Aside from gaining member status for yourself, your immediate family (spouse and unmarried children under 25) also get to enjoy membership rights.

    Do take note that membership at the Waterfront Country Club is non-transferable.

    Types of Memberships at the Waterfront Country Club

    There are different membership classifications at the Waterfront Country Club, with their own respective fees and additional benefits:

    • Family membership is for parents with unmarried children age 22 (or 25, if the children are still studying and residing with the parents).
    • Single membership is strictly for single individuals only.
    • Class III/IIIA Nonresident membership is open to both single people and families.
    • Class IV/IVA Nonresident membership
    • Social membership is open for families and includes access to the clubhouse, pool, and tennis courts only.
    • Single social membership is similar to social membership, but this time for single individuals only.

    You can view the classification map together with the application form, which you’ll need to download to submit your application.

    To become a member, simply print out and fill up this form. Finished applications must be mailed along with the application and prorated membership fees to this address:

    The Waterfront Country Club
    Smith Mountain Lake
    P.O Box 540
    Wirtz, VA 24184

    Once the Board of Directors receives and approves your application, you will be sent a membership package.

    Become a member at the Waterfront Country Club. Learn more about this exclusive golf community at Smith Mountain Lake, contact me today at 540-493-1690 or [email protected].