The start of a new year always compels people to take a fresh look at their goals, from health and career to relationships and finance. But with historically low mortgage rates, increased home sales and price growth, and a tight housing inventory, the time is right to also make some homeownership resolutions for 2021. Home […]
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 :)
10 Ways to Give Back to the Smith Mountain Lake Community This Holiday Season
This year has demonstrated, perhaps more than ever, the importance of our family, friends, neighbors, and community. It truly “takes a village” to keep a community functioning effectively, whether that’s by keeping Smith Mountain Lake clean, feeding the hungry, teaching our kids, or supporting small businesses. With the holidays right around the corner, December offers […]
The New Normal: A Strong Housing Market Expected to Continue into 2021
“2020 will be known for a lot of things, and a record-breaking year for real estate will certainly be one of its more unexpected legacies,” prominent economist Daryl Fairweather said.1 And he’s right: most of us would have expected the housing market to suffer from circumstances like a once-in-a-hundred-years pandemic and historic inventory shortages. But, […]
5 Secrets Buyers and Sellers Must Know About Virtual Home Tours
For years now, virtual home tours have helped real estate buyers far and wide find the perfect home. From long-distance military personnel being relocated, to investors expanding their portfolio, to homeowners looking for a vacation getaway, this technology makes finding a house that’s a bit out of driving distance much easier. And for real estate […]
Move-Up vs. Second Home: Which One Is Right For You?
The pandemic has changed the way many of us live, work, and attend school—and those changes have impacted our priorities when it comes to choosing a home at Smith Mountain Lake or elsewhere. According to a recent survey by The Harris Poll, 75% of respondents who have begun working remotely would like to continue doing […]
Lowest Mortgage Rates in History: What It Means for Homeowners and Buyers
In July, the average 30-year fixed-rate mortgage fell below 3% for the first time in history.1 And while many Americans have rushed to take advantage of this unprecedented opportunity, others question the hype. Are today’s rates truly a bargain? While average mortgage rates have drifted between 4% and 5% in recent years, they haven’t always […]
Is now a good time to buy or sell real estate?
Traditionally, spring is one of the busiest times of the year for real estate. However, the coronavirus outbreak—and subsequent stay-at-home orders—led many buyers and sellers to put their moving plans on hold. In April, new listings fell nearly 45%, and sales volume fell 15% compared to last year.1 Fortunately, as restrictions have eased, we’ve seen […]
20 Ways to Save Money and Stretch Your Household Budget
These days, it seems like everyone’s looking for ways to cut costs and stretch their income further. Fortunately, there are some simple steps you can take to reduce your household expenses without making radical changes to your standard of living. When combined, these small adjustments can add up to significant savings each month. Here are […]
Smith Mountain Lake Condo Remodel is an Upscale Downsize
A Smith Mountain Lake condo remodel wasn’t exactly what my friend and client was looking to tackle a few years ago. But take one look at the new issue of Smith Mountain Lake HOME Magazine and you’ll see it turned out to be the perfect decision. WOW! Just wow. The stunning cover is a photograph […]
How to Create Functional Spaces in Your Home During the Coronavirus Outbreak
Since the outbreak of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19), many of us are spending a lot more time at home. We’re all being called upon to avoid public spaces and practice social distancing to help slow the spread of this infectious disease. While it can be understandably challenging, there are ways you can modify your home […]
Navigating difficult times: How can we help you during the coronavirus outbreak?
And just like that, the world is now bound together in one common goal — to not let this virus take us down. Please know that The Beran Team is available to help. We want to be a resource to our clients and the Smith Mountain Lake community through good times and bad. If you […]
Top 5 Home Design Trends for a New Decade
Whether you’re planning a simple refresh or a full-scale renovation, it’s important to stay up-to-date on the latest trends in home design. Sellers who make tasteful updates can generate increased buyer interest and, in some cases, a premium selling price. And buyers should consider which features of a home will need updating immediately (or in […]
Take Advantage of Your Home Equity: A Homeowner’s Guide
Homeownership offers many advantages over renting, including a stable living environment, predictable monthly payments, and the freedom to make modifications. Neighborhoods with high rates of homeownership have less crime and more civic engagement. Additionally, studies show that homeowners are happier and healthier than renters, and their children do better in school.1 But one of the […]
2020 Outlook: Real Estate Market Forecast
We’re in the midst of the longest economic expansion in U.S. history, and economists think there’s still room to grow. A recent survey by the National Association for Business Economics found that experts believe the U.S. economy will remain positive throughout 2020.1 Still, given that recessions are a natural (and necessary) part of a business […]
Most Expensive Homes at Smith Mountain Lake, VA
The most expensive homes at Smith Mountain Lake feature beauty, variety and amazing architecture. And, of course, they all come with the perks of living at Virginia’s premier lake! Whether you’re out for a boat ride or just surfing Virginia lake home listings online, it’s always fun to take a look at these amazing Smith […]
12 Tips if You’re Leaving Your Smith Mountain Lake Home for the Holidays
If you plan to leave your Smith Mountain Lake home for the holidays, follow these smart tips to keep your property safe (and possibly save a few bucks while you’re gone): Put mail and newspapers on hold Having an overstuffed mailbox or a pile of newspapers at the bottom of your driveway alerts potential thieves […]
Smith Mountain Lake Real Estate Market Update
Here is your December 2020 Smith Mountain Lake Real Estate Market Update for waterfront single family homes, condos, townhomes and lots. Information is based on active and pending properties as of Jan. 6, 2021, and closed activity through December 2020. Single Family Homes: Active – 39 homes with an average list price of $1,774,165 and […]
Smith Mountain Lake VA Real Estate Sales Transactions
If you’re wondering what homes are selling for at Smith Mountain Lake, Virginia, you’ve landed in the right spot. Bookmark this page to see the latest Smith Mountain Lake real estate transactions, updated monthly. Bonus Links: Waterfront Listings at Smith Mountain Lake ($0-$799,000) Luxury Waterfront Listings at Smith Mountain Lake ($800,000+) Lake Access Listings at […]
10 Money-saving hacks for your Smith Mountain Lake home
The changing of the season is a great time to take a fresh look at your Smith Mountain Lake home and make tweaks that will help you save money this fall and winter. Take a look at these 10 ways you can adjust your habits and make small, affordable household changes that will lower your […]
Smith Mountain Lake Fireworks: Where is the best place to watch fireworks at SML?
Smith Mountain Lake fireworks shows and Independence Day celebrations are among the most popular events each year for SML visitors and locals. [Updated for 2019!] 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 […]
