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Your accommodation is one of the factors that determine just how much you get to enjoy your holiday. The traditional option is a hotel, but in popular vacation spots like Smith Mountain Lake, you can also choose from among the many vacation homes for rent.

A vacation home rental offers many benefits, but it might not be the right option for you. To help you make the decision, here’s a look at some of the pros and cons of staying in a rental.

Advantages of renting a vacation home

• You get more space

Hotel rooms tend to be quite small, and a standard room can typically accommodate just two persons. If you’re traveling in a group, this means you may have to rent two or more rooms.

If you rent a vacation home, you can choose one that can fit in your entire group. At the end of the day, everyone can relax and spend more time together. Also, living in a home away from home means you get much more privacy and freedom to come and go as you please.

• You get to cook your meals

Eating out in restaurants when you are on holiday is a great way to enjoy the place, but it can get quite expensive. Many Smith Mountain Lake vacation rentals come with their own kitchens, so you can cook your own meals when you want to. Not only can this help you save money, you also get to enjoy food just as you like it.

• You get affordable luxury

Hotels can be expensive, which means you may have to compromise on luxury if you want something more affordable. If you’re in a large group, however, you can pool your money together and afford a vacation home with opulent amenities. Many Smith Mountain Lake rental homes have their own Jacuzzi or swimming pool that you can enjoy in private. A good number also come with a deck where you can have a barbecue or breakfast with a great view. You can also choose a property that gives you easy access to your favorite activity in the area, such as a beachfront home, or one close to a fishing dock or a golf course.

Disadvantages of renting a vacation home

• There’s no round-the-clock service

One of the best things about staying in hotels is that somebody is available to help you 24/7 – the kind of service you’ll likely not get in a vacation home. You might even find that nobody is there to greet you when you arrive, and that you will have to deal with your luggage yourself. Some properties may not have beddings and towels available, so you might need to bring your own.

• The property might turn out to be disappointing

When you stay in a hotel, especially a chain, you pretty much know what to expect. Staying in a vacation rental, however, can be far more hit and miss. The pictures on the internet may seem lovely but the reality when you arrive can be somewhat different.

• You have to rely on self-service

You will most likely need to clean after yourself, since most vacation homes do not come with maid service. The absence of a concierge also means you have to rely on your own resources in planning your itinerary, booking transport services, renting equipment, and making other arrangements.

If you’re looking to invest in a vacation rental or your very own second home in Smith Mountain Lake, I can help you find the right property. Call me today at 540.493.1690 or send an email to Jane(at)JaneAtTheLake(dotted)com.

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Home improvements can help enhance your lifestyle and make staying at home more enjoyable. In choosing home remodeling projects, however, it’s best to pick those that can help increase the value of your property as well, especially if you’re planning to sell it in the future.

We have highlighted three home improvements that will give you good returns on your investment while adding to your comfort and convenience.

1. Bathroom Upgrades
   Buyers looking at Smith Mountain Lake properties for sale will often inspect the bathroom more closely than any other room. This means a bathroom upgrade can make your home more attractive and add value to it.

   In cold climes, a bathroom with a heated floor will really grab peoples’ attention. According to Zillow, the cost of heating your bathroom floor will be around $5 to $10 per square foot. This does not cover the cost of the flooring above the heating. If you do make this investment, you can expect to see an increase of around 24% on the value of your property.

   Everybody loves a shower after a long, hot day. And for something that is truly invigorating, there is nothing quite like a steam shower. The total cost of having a steam shower installed is anywhere from $2,500 to $10,000. The cost will depend largely on whether you are installing a steam shower from scratch, or having an existing shower upgraded. The higher end may seem like a large outlay, but homes with steam showers may sell for around 29% higher than those without.

2. Kitchen Remodeling
   The heart of the home is the kitchen, and upgrading it can pay off in the long run. Replacing old kitchen appliances with new, energy-efficient models is one way to add value to your property.

   For something a little more special, consider having a pizza oven installed. Zillow reports that this can cost you around $500 to $1,000 if you do it yourself, and between $1,500 to $4,000 if you have a professional do it for you. This relatively low-cost investment can increase your property’s value by around 26%.

   If you fancy yourself as a Gordon Ramsey in the kitchen, then you are also likely to want some fine wines to go with your creations. What better place to keep them than in a wine fridge? Many wine fridges can be concealed in cabinets, so they blend in seamlessly with your interior. Having one installed can cost anywhere from $200 to $2,000. The higher-end models will offer more functionality such as the ability to have different temperature zones for different wines. Depending on which you go for, a wine fridge can add on average around 22% to your property’s value.

3. Solar Panels
   Solar panels are a clean energy option that helps you do your part in protecting the environment. That’s not the only attraction, though. They also allow you to go off-grid and thus get substantial savings on your utilities bill. After tax credits, you can expect to pay around $11,000 and $15,000 for a 6 KW system. On average, homes with solar panels sell for around 21% more than those without, while those at the lower end of the market can sell for around 40% more than they otherwise would.

Thinking of selling your home and looking for ways to improve its value? As a Smith Mountain Lake real estate expert, I can help. Call me today at 540.493.1690 or send an email to Jane(at)JaneAtTheLake(dotted)com.

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Owning a lakefront home – whether as a primary or secondary residence – is a dream for many. There’s nothing like waking up to a serene view and enjoying water activities all day long.

However, purchasing lakefront property is not without its risks. To get the most out of your investment, it’s important to do due diligence and ask the right questions before buying.

Here are a few of the things you need to know:

1. Will the home flood?
   As idyllic as living beside a lake can be, there is the very real risk that it could flood. Check if the property you’re eyeing is in a flood zone. If it is, this could mean you will have to buy flood insurance. Additionally, find out if the home has been flooded in the past, and if it has, take the extra precaution of checking the property for any damage or problems caused by the flooding.

   Historically, flooding is very rare in Smith Mountain Lake, but it could happen in a severe storm. When the water level is expected to rise, SML lakefront homeowners are advised to secure their boats and other docked belongings.

2. What is it like in the winter?
   During the summertime, there is no better place to stay than in a beautiful lakeside home. The reality can be very different when the winter arrives, however. Dropping temperatures, snow, and storms can make some areas difficult to live. If you’re planning to use the property only in the summertime then this should not be a problem. If you wish to stay all year round, though, you should find out what the conditions are like during the winter.

   Fortunately, Smith Mountain Lake also makes a great winter retreat. There’s a host of events and activities to look forward to, including winter bass fishing, wine tastings, carriage rides, and live performances at The Harvester Performance Center.

3. How will the property be taxed?
   If you’re buying a lakefront home as a secondary property, renting it out when you’re not using it can help you pay for the investment. However, you will need to pay tax if you rent it for more than 15 days in a year. Also, if you choose to sell the property, you can expect to be liable for capital gains tax. Ask your accountant about these tax liabilities. Your real estate agent can guide you, as well.

   On the flipside, you can enjoy certain tax benefits, such as deductibles for your maintenance costs, furniture, and other expenses related to your rental business.

4. Is there a homeowners’ association?
   Some Smith Mountain Lake waterfront homes for sale will be in neighborhoods with a homeowners’ association (HOA). This can benefit you as it will help to keep the area well maintained. If you’re a second home owner, you can rest assured someone is looking over your property even when you’re out of town.

   However, this also means paying regular HOA fees that go to the upkeep of the neighborhood. It may also mean abiding by restrictions placed by the HOA on what you can do with your home and around the neighborhood. Check to see what restrictions might be in place for a property you’re interested in and which activities are allowed.

As an experienced Realtor who knows the area well, I can help make sure you know what to expect when you buy a Smith Mountain Lake home. Call me today at 540.493.1690 or send an email to Jane(at)JaneAtTheLake(dotted)com.

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There are plenty of retirement homes in Smith Mountain Lake, but when it comes time to enjoy that stage of your life, how do you choose one that suits your needs? The following tips will definitely help.

1. Pick a home with one level

   Previously, retirement homes were built with two levels so that a larger number of residents could live on the property. Managers and retirees, however, have come to recognize a major problem with this design: stairs.

   Stairs can be challenging to navigate, especially if you deal with mobility issues. You can have lift chairs installed when you need it, but it’s an avoidable expense. Consider limiting your home search to houses with only one level so it’s easier for you to get around the property.

   It if it can’t be helped to buy a two-storey retirement home, arrange it accordingly so that everything you need is in the ground floor. The second floor can be for staff and guests.

2. Mind the showers

   Another high-risk area is the shower. Getting in and out of a shower pose some risks due to accessibility. You can easily slip, slide, and hit parts of your body with blunt force.

   Walk-in showers are a safer alternative to bath tubs. You can purchase non-slip rugs from the home depot or invest in anti-slip tiles. Handrails help keep yourself stable. It also provides assistance when you get in and out. Still, accidents happen, so an emergency alert switch in easy reach is a must.

3. Check out the lifestyle programs

   Retirement is a great time to reacquaint yourself with past hobbies, pick up new skills, and even make new friends to enjoy this golden period with. Hence, it’s wise to check the local lifestyle programs offered in the area.

   There are many retirement communities in Smith Mountain Lake that offer a plethora of lifestyle and recreational programs. But if you decide not to live in a retirement community, you’ll find that the Smith Mountain Lake area as a whole has plenty of activities perfect for retirement.

4. Look for engaging social programs

   Socializing is good for your mental health, which is why it’s highly recommended to retire to a place where you have friends and family or a variety of social programs.

   Ask about local events and programs for retirees and see what they offer in terms of games, outings, live entertainment, and other group activities. These will give you opportunities to mingle and get to know other residents.

5. Verify specialized care services available in the area

   Most retirement communities are going to provide some semblance of on-site medical care, even if it’s general care. What you should take interest in, however, is how the home is equipped for special medical conditions, such as Alzheimer’s, Lyme Disease, and arthritis.

   While there are homes committed to treating specific healthcare issues, one that can accommodate those needs as they occur will eliminate the need to move into a new home in the future, which can be an incredibly distressing experience.

Retire in Smith Mountain Lake

With over 30 years of experience working in Smith Mountain Lake’s real estate market, I can help you find the perfect retirement home. Call me today at 540.493.1690 or send an email to Jane(at)JaneAtTheLake(dotted)com.

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You’ve always heard friends, co-workers, and neighbors talk wistfully about how much they’d love to live by the water. But what are the actual benefits of living in a waterfront home? Here’s a quick overview of the main perks.

1. Peace and privacy

   Most waterfront properties in Smith Mountain Lake are spaced at a safe distance from each other. Therefore, you can enjoy some peace and solitude in your waterfront home. Even if you do end up having neighbors on the lakefront, chances are they chose the location for the same reasons you did. They will value their privacy and thus respect yours.

2. Easy access to other areas

   Don’t confuse the word “seclusion” for “isolation.” Indeed, some waterfront properties are quite remote, but those in Smith Mountain Lake are conveniently located near urban centers like Lynchburg and Roanoke. Both locations boast shopping, entertainment, and dining options. Traffic really isn’t an issue, so you can enjoy the best of city conveniences and serene lake living to the fullest.

3. It’s good for you

   Simply being near the water for a few minutes can be a relaxing experience. Now imagine living near the water, the lake just outside your window, the sound of waves filling the day. Far from the noise of the city, a lakefront home exists in a world and atmosphere all its own.

   Some studies even suggest that living by the water helps improve mental health, like this research by Health & Place. It posits that when you living exposed to blue space can reduce psychological distress.

4. High property value

   It’s common knowledge that waterfront properties tend to have higher market values than most of its counterparts located further inland. The scenery alone is enough to increase its value, but other factors help boost it even further.

   Investment-wise, while this does mean that a waterfront property can come at a higher price tag, it can also mean a significant return on your investment, especially if selling the property after it appreciates is part of your plan.

5. Natural beauty and outdoor recreation right at your doorstep

   The adage “location, location, location” has a lot of weight when it comes to waterfront properties, especially in places like Smith Mountain Lake. Imagine waking up in the morning to gorgeous lake scenery!

   Aside from some of Mother Nature’s best work at hand, living by the waterfront also opens doors to plenty of great outdoor recreation and entertainment opportunities.

   There’s no need to travel hours for some much needed R&R. Just go out of your house and explore Smith Mountain Lake. Lake activities include swimming, wakeboarding, and fishing, while on land, you can go hiking, camping, horseback riding, or visit one of the many attractions in the area.

If you feel the call of lakefront living, contact me today. Together, we’ll explore waterfront homes for sale in Smith Mountain Lake to find your dream lakefront home. Give me a call at 540.493.1690 or send an email to Jane(at)JaneAtTheLake(dotted)com.

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Buying an investment property is a great way to circulate your money, especially in areas like Smith Mountain Lake. As you begin your foray into real estate investment, keep these six tips in mind.

1. Make plans

   Buying real estate can be an emotional experience. Rushing into a decision could mean spending more money than you planned and forcing yourself to shift gears. This is counterproductive, as with investment properties, the main goal is usually to generate income.

   Keep a level head and make plans before you shop for an investment property. Are you keeping it and let it appreciate, then sell? Or are you turning it into a vacation rental? For the latter, it would help to identify your target market as early as possible. Most importantly, create a budget and hold yourself to it. It can act as a buffer that will keep your decision-making in check.

2. Find out what’s already in the neighborhood

   As with real estate investments, location is everything. Before you invest in the property, take time to get to know the neighborhood.

   What’s in the area? Is it already developed or up-and-coming? How close is it to facilities, amenities, and local attractions? Is the location aligned with your plans for the property? For instance, if you want a secluded retreat, investing in a property far from all the hubbub would be best. If the area is already saturated, consider changing how you market the property or pick a different location entirely.

3. Take a friend with you

   Even if you don’t want a partner for the investment property itself, involving a friend in the buying process is one of the easiest ways you can keep yourself on track.

   Before you begin your search, tell your buddy exactly what you’re looking for in great detail. Go over every property that catches your eye with them to make sure everything hits each point on your checklist.

4. Hire a local realtor

   Your workload is halved when you work with a local realtor. He or she will help you throughout the entire buying process, such as planning out your investment and shopping for the best loan. Having a good working relationship with your realtor also helps take some of the pressure off of the buying process.

5. Consider hiring a property manager

   There are two types of property investing: passive and active. Regardless of which one you choose, it will require dedication and time to be a successful venture. Because of this, it’s difficult to balance property investments with a full-time job.

   As you make plans, consider hiring a professional to manage your investment property. This will help, especially if you choose to be a passive investor.

6. Study your loan options carefully

   In the rush to secure your dream property, don’t overlook the loan options available to you. More offers from lenders mean different payment terms and time frames, so carefully read the fine print and make sure you understand what you’re getting locked into. Your real estate agent can also help you discover loan options that may not be apparent to you.

Searching for an investment property? Explore Smith Mountain Lake properties for sale with me. Call me at 540.493.1690 or send an email to Jane(at)JaneAtTheLake(dotted)com.

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Smith Mountain Lake will delight you all year round with its gorgeous views and numerous opportunities for outdoor recreation. To add to all these, there’s never a shortage of great eats in the area.

Whether you’re in the mood for a fancy dinner date or need a sandwich on-the-go, you’ll find what you’re looking for in the wide variety of dining destinations around the lake.

Here’s a quick guide to some of your best gastronomic options:

Delis and coffee shops

The Smith Mountain Lake area is home to coffee shops, delis, bakeries, and food booths where you can go for brunch, mid-afternoon coffee or tea, or a sweet treat any time of the day, be it after enjoying activities with the family. Check out these charming places:

• CJ’s Coffee and Sandwich Shop
  213 Scruggs Road, Moneta, VA
  (540) 488-4223
• Rocky Mount Daylight Donuts
  918 Tanyard Road
  Rocky Mount, VA
  (540) 493-3311
• Diamond Hill General Store
  1017 Diamond Hill Road
  Moneta, VA
  (540) 297-9309
  (540) 297-7009
• Hawk’s Country Store & Deli
  1100 Celebration Avenue, Suite 208
  Moneta, VA
• Sugar & Slice Cupcakery and Confections Café
  96 Builders Pride Drive, Suite 106
  Hardy, Virginia
  (540) 721-2253

Fine and casual dining

Eating out is also an adventure in Smith Mountain Lake. Discover new cuisines and new dining experiences every time. Come with the family and enjoy home-cooked style food in cozy bistros. Celebrate a milestone at an award-winning restaurant. Or simply take in the stunning view and enjoy fresh seafood at a waterfront grill. If you’re craving for sushi, or an Italian or Mexican classic, there’s something for you here, as well.

These are just a few of your choices:

• Bedford Social Club
  124 S. Bridge Street
  Bedford, VA
  (540) 586-9454
• The Blackwater Café
  4730 Scruggs Road
  Moneta, VA
  (540) 721-4333
• Olde Liberty Station
  515 Bedford Avenue,
  Bedford, VA
  (540) 587-9377
• Old Oak Café
  400 Scruggs Road
  Moneta, VA
  (540) 719-3388
• The Landing Restaurant
  773 Ashmeade Road
  Moneta, VA
  (540) 721-3028
• Cancun Mexican Restaurant & Grill
  13383 B.T. Washington Highway
  Hardy, VA
  (540) 719-2884
• Vinny’s Italian Grill and Pizzeria
  16547 Moneta Road
  Moneta, VA
  (540) 297-0030
• Edo Grill & Sushi
  1035 Mercantile Street #104
  Moneta, VA
  (540) 297-6888
• Mitchell’s Restaurant
  3553 Trading Post Road
  Huddleston, VA
  (540) 296-0664

Bars & Grills

The fun continues as dusk falls over Smith Mountain Lake. The place comes alive with revelers and diners enjoying their barbecue fix, some craft beer or wine, and perhaps a dose of live entertainment. Come by land or by water – you can dock your boats on many of these spots while you dine and drink the night away.

Here are a few of the top destinations here:

• Mango’s Bar and Grill
  16430 B.T. Washington Highway
  Moneta, VA
  540-721-1632
• Waller’s
  1617A Crystal Shores Drive
  Moneta, VA
  (540) 297-0055
• Portside Grill & Bar
  3619 Airport Road
  Moneta, VA
  (540) 297-7100
• The Mill Iron Grill
  10190 Stewartsville Road
  Goodview, VA
  (540) 890-4766
• Jake’s Place
  1041 Harbour Inn Lane
  Moneta, VA
  (540) 297-4732

Whether you’re staying for good or simply want to spend your holidays in Smith Mountain Lake, you’re bound to have the time of your life. Being an experienced realtor, I can help you find the perfect home for sale. Call me at 540.493.1690 or send an email to Jane(at)JaneAtTheLake(dotted)com.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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