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Here is what the Smith Mountain Lake Chamber has listed for this weekend:
Building an outdoor grill in your backyard can help you enjoy pleasant weather while providing your family with delicious meals. Whether you do it yourself, hire a landscape architect, or get a kitchen specialist to design your outdoor kitchen, you’ll take full advantage of your outdoor space and the comforts and entertainment it can provide. There are many items to consider when installing a built-in outdoor grill, including location, ventilation, type of grill, and features. Will you need to install a gas line to the grill? Will there be water available? Do you plan to have other kitchen functions such as storage, an ice maker and an outdoor dining area? You’ll want to locate the grill at least 10 feet from the house. Use fire-retardant materials such as stainless steel, stone, or bricks for countertops and retaining walls. Most grills have lids to retard fire, but where the smoke blows are also crucial. The BBQGuys maintain that proper ventilation sucks out scorching heat and keeps smoke and odor away from you while you’re grilling and your guests. It also vents grease, fumes and discoloration from your outdoor kitchen surfaces which reduces fire hazards. If you prefer gas, contact your gas company to find a reputable gas contractor and get more than one bid. Charcoal and propane tank grills offer more flexibility in where you install them. Make grilling outdoors more convenient by finishing out the area with amenities like built-in trashcans, side burners, sinks and a drink station. Don’t forget to check into your local building codes; there may be rules you need to follow, and your project could require a building or plumbing permit, depending on the scope of your plans. |
There is a wealth of opportunities to witness glorious sunsets at Smith Mountain Lake. When the sky gets painted in gradually deepening hues of orange, pink, and purple, it’s a natural phenomenon you wouldn’t want to miss. Here are some suggestions on how to best enjoy Smith Mountain Lake’s most beautiful show.
Go on a night cruise. Whether you’re aboard the historic Virginia Dare, chartered a boat, or you’re on your own craft, going on a night cruise is one of the best ways to enjoy the sunset. It’s awfully romantic too, making a perfect setting for a date. Whether you’re alone or with a significant other, cruising at night allows you to watch the last of the sun’s rays glisten across the lake as it rests behind the Blue Ridge Mountains. It’s a wonderful way to cap off an amazing day at Smith Mountain Lake.
Watch it from the Blue Ridge Parkway. Labeled as one of the country’s most scenic drives, the Blue Ridge Parkway is definitely a place to be to enjoy the sunset. You can take a drive to the parkway and just stop on the side of the road or hike up either one of the parkway’s peaks (Sharp Top, Harkening Hill, and Flat Top) for a more majestic, bird’s eye view. You can do this by yourself or with your favorite group of friends. For an even more relaxing time, bring a cooler loaded with your favorite drinks. Amazing views, great friends, and your favorite cold drink – it’s the perfect combination. Life is good.
Take part in Hickory Hill’s Sunset Saturdays. Hickory Hill Vineyards is one of the best places to get your wine fix. Located in Moneta, the vineyard hosts their aptly-named Sunset Saturdays. Enjoy the splendor of the setting sun in the vineyard with your favorite bottle of wine and fare as different artists fill the air with good music. For more information on this event, log on to http://www.smlwine.com/calendar/sunset-saturdays.
Here’s a roundup of what’s been happening in our community as of late:
Real Estate
South Harbour: SML’s newest waterfront community
This waterfront community located on Dudley Amos Road off Scruggs Road was built on the property formerly known as “The Lakewatch Club”. This new residential haven is planned to contain 40 properties with the following lot size and price range:
The community is strategically located in an area where shopping, healthcare and dining destinations are not far from reach. With the Waterfront Country Club just a few minutes away, homeowners can join the club with no initiation fee; and enjoy outstanding amenities including tennis, championship golf, fine dining, swimming, and a wide range of club events and gatherings.
South Harbour is a project of The Willard Company’s real estate division, BerkShire Hathaway HomeServices and a formal partnership with the Amos Estate.
Tourism
The new 2015 Guide to Lodging at SML
Laker Media recently launched their newly updated lodging guide, which provides updated and comprehensive information on accommodations found in and around Smith Mountain Lake. The guide includes addresses, the establishment’s Channel Marker and Map I.D., as well as phone numbers, accommodation price range (exclusive of tax), websites and an indicator if the accommodations allow pets, dock privileges and Wi-Fi.
The accommodations found in SML are arranged in the following categories:
You may view the SML Lodging guide here [see link: http://goo.gl/t3Hpyj] or you can get your own free printed copy found all over the region or at Laker Media’s offices found at 272 Westlake Road, Hardy (behind Kroger).
Employment
Edelmann Technology sets up shop in Franklin County
The German company will be planting their North American headquarters in Franklin County, serving clients from the United States, Canada and Latin America. The company is expected to provide an initial 5-10 jobs to Franklin County.
Edelmann Technology designs and manufactures off and in-line slitting and winding machinery for the nonwovens industry.
Community News
Green box sites changes in Franklin County
Franklin County’s green box sites will now be manned. Supervisors are considering a schedule of 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. and future plans include replacing the boxes with trash compactors.
Waterfront properties in Smith Mountain Lake are hot property this year – as they often are. Sales for properties in the area were double for January compared to the same period in 2014, starting the year with a great momentum for buyers and sellers in the area.
No tax increase in Bedford County
The county’s board of supervisors has declared that there is no anticipated tax increase for the coming fiscal year. The decision was a result of a backlash that occurred when an increase of $0.02 was added to real estate tax in 2014, which resulted in a calculated loss of $1.5 million in land value for the area based on the county’s assessment. With real estate taxes not increasing anytime soon, buyers and sellers are at a great place to invest in real estate in the area.
Predictions for 2015
According to Forbes magazine’s prediction of what the housing market will look like for 2015, buyers have increased confidence when it comes to purchasing property. With home prices rising at a steady and predictable rate, housing continues to stabilize after almost seven years of being in a tentative state, prices are expected to level out. Great news for homebuyers looking to purchase much coveted waterfront property at Smith Mountain Lake!
Advice for buyers and sellers in Smith Mountain Lake
With a high demand for properties in the Smith Mountain Lake area, buyers and sellers are expected to deal with a lot of negotiations, which means you’ll need to be on your toes when it comes to dealing with the tough competition. Consider the fact that paying in cash doesn’t necessarily put you at an advantage, and that when it comes to negotiating, timing and confidence is important. For buyers in particular, be wary of going over budget.
It is predicted that millennials will take a huge chunk of the buyer’s market; eventually overtaking buyers who belong to Generation X. Sellers should take into account the difference in perspective and behavior of this market segment, as their consumer behaviors are distinct from those of Gen X-ers. Taking this into account will significantly require real estate marketing efforts to be more substantial and targeted.
Smith Mountain Lake is known for its abundance of outdoor activities such as boating, fishing and horseback riding. Spending endless hours of fun outdoors will definitely help build an appetite! Luckily for you, Smith Mountain Lake offers many dining options giving you the freedom to enjoy the outdoors and experience great food. Many of the restaurants at Smith Mountain Lake are located on the water, providing you with breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and crystal clear water while you dine.
Residents and visitors of Smith Mountain Lake have plenty of options when it comes to food:
The Landing Restaurant
The Landing Restaurant offers fine dining experiences and beautiful lakefront views. Having received awards such as Best Lake Area Restaurant for the past 10 years and the Best Restaurant at Smith Mountain Lake, The Landing Restaurant is a top pick for residents and visitors of Smith Mountain Lake.
The Blackwater Café
Opened in November of 2005, The Blackwater Café is one of the favorites of Smith Mountain Lake. Though the restaurant is not lakefront, it is known for its extensive wine list and focuses on serving great food and providing excellent customer service. Make sure to check their website for special menus and events.
Waller’s
Waller’s is a Bar & Grill that sits right on the water. Serving burgers, seafood and BBQ, Waller’s offers a little something for everyone. The spectacular views and live entertainment gives your family a wonderful experience when dining here.
Dining in Smith Mountain Lake
Smith Mountain Lake offers so much more when it comes to dining. From Italian to sushi to Mexican or down-home Southern cooking, there are options for diners of all ages. With dozens of places to choose from on Smith Mountain Lake, just pick a direction and feed your palate! Please be sure to call first since some of the restaurants are open seasonally.
Feel free to contact me for more information on the Smith Mountain Lake area and the communities within. I’m ready to answer your questions and am committed to providing the best customer service possible! I look forward to speaking with you soon!
Located just 30-45 minutes from Roanoke and Lynchburg, Smith Mountain Lake is surrounded by the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains. While better known for its outdoor recreation offerings, it also provides charming shopping options. One-of-a-kind boutiques and quaint shops provide a memorable shopping experience that keeps visitors coming back for more and locals feeling like they never have to leave.
Whether you’re looking for souvenirs to remember your time at the lake, sporting goods, art, or even some great jam, Smith Mountain Lake’s retail options are vast and plentiful offering a little something for everyone. Visit the country store at the Homestead Creamery for dairy milk, cheeses, fresh produce, and so much more! Then enjoy a delicious lunch and sample some of their homemade ice cream in so many delectable flavors while you’re there. During the summer months, residents and visitors of Smith Mountain Lake can also visit the Westlake Farmer’s Market for locally grown produce, jams and crafts.
In addition to the variety of stores located within the communities at the lake, Smith Mountain Lake also has shopping centers like Bridgewater Plaza and Westlake Towne Center that boast many different one-of-a-kind stores to cater to tourist and residents.
Shopping at Smith Mountain Lake
Bridgewater Plaza at Smith Mountain Lake has family fun for everyone! This area is home to the Smith Mountain Lake Visitors Center and offers shopping, dining and entertainment all in one place. Enjoy a game of miniature golf, scale the rock-climbing wall, or visit the Fun-N-Games Arcade. You can even rent boats and jet skis at Bridgewater Marina located right in the plaza.
Westlake Towne Center is another key destination for shopping and retail in Smith Mountain Lake. Located just a mile away from the Westlake Golf and Country Club, the town center offers a range of services including the Westlake Cinema, Westlake Salon & Spa and plenty of dining options. Make sure to take a look at The Cottage Gate in Westlake Towne Center for seasonal décor and gift items. The store changes daily and features many local artisans to provide a unique shopping experience.
With the different options for shopping at Smith Mountain Lake, you’re sure to find what you are looking for. From clothing boutiques to souvenir gift shops to sporting good stores, you’ll have something to remember the wonderful memories at Smith Mountain Lake. If you are considering a move to one of Virginia’s premier lakefront communities, please give me a call today. I would love to answer any questions and help you find your perfect home!
