Many of you already know Erica Tibbs as the friendly, steady presence behind the scenes at Deb Beran Properties. After six years as our Transaction Coordinator, I’m excited to share that she is officially transitioning into a new role as a REALTOR® and Buyer’s Specialist. Since moving to the Smith Mountain Lake area in […]
Deb Beran Properties Blog
I frequently update my blog to bring you the latest in news and events around the Smith Mountain Lake local area, in addition to insightful information on the unique real estate market here. I hope you will find some useful content here! Don't hesitate to reach out to me if you have any questions about the content you see here. I'll be happy to help :)
New Year, New Home Goals at Smith Mountain Lake
Happy New Year! I hope that you and your family had a wonderful holiday season. Now that the festivities have wrapped up, many of us are setting fresh goals for the year ahead. As you do, it’s worth taking a moment to think about your home. Does it still fit your lifestyle? If not, what […]
Smith Mountain Lake Events in January
Hello, friends! Things are definitely a little quieter around Smith Mountain Lake this time of year, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t fun-filled events going on. Live music, trivia nights, wine tastings and more are all on tap this month. The Smith Mountain Lake Insiders’ Guide provides comprehensive info on SML’s many happenings in January. […]
The Impact of a Personal Note
When was the last time you went to get your mail and found a personalized card from someone? Chances are, it’s been a while. And it’s become even more rare over time. This month, I’m sharing some simple tips on how you can get into the habit of sending personal notes. When you do so, […]
Smith Mountain Lake Events in December
Happy holidays, friends! December welcomes us with a festive flair and a wintry chill, offering a chance to experience Smith Mountain Lake’s characteristic charm in the traditional holiday season. Don’t miss out on the wide array of holiday concerts, open houses and parades, as well as numerous opportunities to bring the kids and grandkids to […]
Simple Ways to Show Appreciation This Thanksgiving
It’s often said that gratitude benefits the giver as much as the receiver — and I couldn’t agree more. From better sleep and reduced stress to an overall stronger sense of well-being, gratitude has a way of shifting our perspective and enriching our days. This month, I’m sharing a few simple ways to show […]
Smith Mountain Lake Events in November
Hello, friends! November keeps theautumn ball rolling with slightly nippier weather while still allowing us to enjoy Smith Mountain Lake’s signature splendor. There are many exceptional things to do and see at SML this month, including the SML Fall Chili and Craft Festival, Virginia Dare Lighted Boat Parade and Santa Around Bridgewater Plaza. The Smith […]
Stress-Free Prep for Your Smith Mountain Lake Home
Does fall home maintenance ever seem overwhelming? It’s easy to feel behind when the to-do list piles up and you’re scrambling to get everything done. One simple way to avoid that last-minute rush is to break your tasks into smaller steps now and spread them out over a manageable schedule. This month, I’m sharing […]
Smith Mountain Lake Events in October
Hello, friends! October ushers in cooler weather, exceptional fall foliage and outstanding things to do at Smith Mountain Lake. The premier event is the SML Charity Home Tour, which allows you to get a peek inside eight of SML’s most beautiful homes. Come by car or boat and help raise money for lake-area charities! Find […]
Take Care of Your Family’s Future Now
We’d do anything for our families and loved ones — and planning ahead is one of the best ways to protect them. When you create a will or an estate plan, you are taking an important step towards ensuring that their future needs will be protected. It’s especially important if you have younger children […]
Smith Mountain Lake Events in September
Hello, friends! September is one of the best times to visit Smith Mountain Lake because the weather is sublime and there’s still so much going on! The popular Smith Mountain Lake Wine Festival returns to Bernard’s Landing Sept. 27-28. Enjoy wine, beer, live music and more — all with a beautiful view of the lake. […]
Smarter Scheduling: Hack Your Day Like a Pro
How is your summer going? I hope you have been able to take some time and enjoy being with your family and friends at Smith Mountain Lake! Now that August is here, we tend to feel a bit “off” or wishful for the summer to extend just a bit further. That’s a perfectly natural […]
Smith Mountain Lake Events in August
Hello, friends! August is a month buzzing with excitement at Smith Mountain Lake! Enjoy a series of other outstanding festivities, including live music at numerous bars and restaurants around the lake. Our well-connected experts, Andie and Jennifer from Smith Mountain Lake Insiders, have compiled an extensive directory of SML events. So, why wait? Explore their […]
Big Dreams, Smart Loans: Tips for Securing a Mortgage
Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer, seasoned homeowner or are looking to refinance, one thing is usually the same—you’ll likely need a mortgage. For many, especially first-time buyers, the process can feel overwhelming. This month, I’m sharing helpful tips to make the experience less stressful, along with simple explanations of common mortgage types to help […]
Smith Mountain Lake Events in July
Hello, friends! There are tons of fun-filled events happening in July at Smith Mountain Lake, including Independence Day celebrations, SML Pirate Days and live music at various bars and restaurants around the lake. My friends Andie and Jennifer at Smith Mountain Lake Insiders have compiled the most comprehensive list of SML events, festivals and live music anywhere […]
America’s Favorite Home Styles Through the Decades
This month, I’m sharing a fun retrospective of America’s most popular home styles over the past century. From classic Cape Cods to cozy mid-century ranches to sleek modern designs, each one reflects how a house becomes something more — a home. Here at Smith Mountain Lake, you’ll find beautiful examples of many of these […]
Smith Mountain Lake Fireworks: Where is the best place to watch fireworks at SML? (2025)
Smith Mountain Lake fireworks shows and Independence Day celebrations are among the most popular events each year for SML visitors and locals. [Updated for 2025!] When are the fireworks at Smith Mountain Lake? Whether you’re looking to stay on land or get out on the water for Smith Mountain Lake fireworks you’ll find something to […]
Smith Mountain Lake Events in June
Hello, friends! There are tons of fun-filled events happening in June at Smith Mountain Lake, including poker and karaoke nights, concerts, wine tastings and live music at various bars and restaurants. My friends Andie and Jennifer at Smith Mountain Lake Insiders have compiled the most comprehensive list of SML events, festivals and live music anywhere on the […]
Rest and Recharge this Summer
Have you planned your summer vacation yet? If not, consider this your friendly reminder to do so! On this month’s flyer I’ve shared a few reminders of why it’s so beneficial to take a break and how to start planning time off. I’ve also included a few of the great places in the U.S. […]
Smith Mountain Lake Events in May
Hello, friends! There are tons of fun-filled events happening in May at Smith Mountain Lake, including the SML Triathlon, Take Pride in SML Cleanup Days and a new Poker Run. My friends Andie and Jennifer at Smith Mountain Lake Insiders have compiled the most comprehensive list of SML events, festivals and live music anywhere on […]
