What Smith Mountain Lake Property Owners Say – Real Estate Client Reviews

We had planned to interview three realtors to sell our home, and Deb was the first. She came to our house and sat down with us and we were so impressed with her real estate knowledge and the Smith Mountain Lake area. She answered every question we had. We signed her up right away, and we were definitely glad we did as her advice was spot on! She also has a first rate team working for her (loved Erica). Everything she arranged, i.e., photographers, signs, etc. were first rate. We sold our house with two full-price offers within two days of listing it. We highly recommend her! Barbara Juedes

We loved working with Judy Hawkins and the Deb Beran Properties team on our recent real estate purchase journey!
They were all so great from start to finish, and Judy truly went above and beyond in every way! Miranda Petrey

A huge thanks to Judy Hawkins and Deb Beran Properties for their expertise and dedication to making it all happen for us in getting our new home. It wasn’t easy, and they were champions; especially Judy, our eyes and ally on the ground. Highly recommended! Dave Moreau

We recently had the pleasure of working with Deb Beran to purchase a lake house at Smith Mountain Lake, and we couldn’t be happier with the experience. From start to finish, Deb demonstrated professionalism, expertise, and a genuine commitment to helping us find the perfect property.

Right from our initial consultation, it was clear that Deb had a deep understanding of the Smith Mountain Lake area and the local real estate market. She took the time to listen to our preferences, understand our needs, and tailor the search to properties that met our criteria. As a long time lake resident and real estate agent, she was able to provide little nuggets about every location on the lake where we looked at homes. She made it a point to let us know the pro’s and con’s of every location.

Over the course of 8 months we looked at many homes all over the lake. During this time we wrote contracts on three different homes all of which did not work out. Each time this occurred she kept an encouraging and positive attitude all throughout telling us we would get the right place. She was proven correct when on the fourth try we finally ended up with a great home that we are enjoying now! Our key takeaway from this process was that her number one concern was not selling us a house, it was finding the right property for us, no matter how long it took or what was involved. We truly appreciate this fact.

Once we had a contract, Deb had great recommendations for home, septic, and pest inspectors as well as settlement agents. We would also be remiss to not mention Erica who did an amazing job coordinating everything involved in the transaction. Thank you Erica!

Overall, we couldn’t have asked for a better real estate experience, and we wholeheartedly recommend Deb to anyone looking to buy or sell property at Smith Mountain Lake. Thank you, Deb, for making our lake house dreams a reality! We will miss working with you, but hope to see you around the lake! Tim Lackey

Peg was an amazing Realtor for my family. We would recommend her repeatedly. She was not just a realtor but became a friend. My husband and I were looking to buy land and our budget was not very high, which of course would result in not a very high commission. That didn’t seem to matter to Peg. Peg went above and beyond putting in a great amount of research and effort into the search, as if we were spending a million dollars. I mean, a TON of research. Peg cleared an entire weekend to accommodate our schedule. We were shown properties that we requested to see, and we saw properties we didn’t even know about. Peg was easy going, let us do and see what we wanted, and, in the end, we fell in love with a property that wasn’t even on the original list. All throughout the process we had a ton of questions, even though we had bought and sold several homes before. Peg was knowledgeable and available throughout the whole thing. We were thankful to have someone “hold our hand” through it all.Susan Lepanto

Deb Beran listed and sold our home quickly and over the asking price. She was a pleasure to work with from start to finish; never any pressure and quick to respond to any questions or issues during the process. Her knowledge and experience in the field shows through and I’d highly recommend her to anyone buying or selling in Smith Mountain Lake area. Steven Scripps

Deb and her team far exceeded our expectations in selling my elderly parents’ home. My parents had moved from the area and left everything in Deb’s capable hands. From staging the house, coordinating contractors, to getting the leftover furnishings donated to area charities once the house sold, Deb managed it all beautifully. She kept us informed and made helpful suggestions. Her list of contacts is lengthy and she gets things done! She has sold two homes for us and we would use her again without hesitation. Joyce F.

Thank you so very much for being our “Reserve Champion” sponsor for the 2023 Healing Strides of Virginia Golf Tournament! We had a great day of golf, fellowship and raising funds for a wonderful organization. Debbie Ferguson, Healing Strides of Virginia

We had the unusual experience of buying a house from several states away without ever personally stepping inside any of the many and varied homes we were interested in. Peg Wheeler was our long-distance representative and, without a doubt, she went above and beyond to give us the best possible remote idea of so many properties (just ask her—so, so many!). When we finally met her in person, the deal was done, and she was just as helpful and kind at the end of the road as at the beginning. We felt so comfortable with her help that the day we moved into our home was the first time we set foot in it. Not everyone would choose such a path but with Peg’s help we ended up just where we needed to be. Leigh and Tim Clark

Great experience from start to finish. Deb and her team made our lake house purchase seamless. Deb’s knowledge of the lake and surrounding area is so helpful when deciding which location on the lake to make home. We live out of state and it was very important to us that we be kept informed of the status of our purchase. Erica reached out to us by email as things progressed. Deb has provided referrals for professionals to do any work or repairs needed. We highly recommend Deb and her team to anyone looking to buy on SML. Nancy Shuler

Deb Beran and her team offer true concierge service.
We decided to sell our condo but my husband became ill and was inpatient. Driving out to the Lake (three hours from our home), was going to be impossible. No worries. Deb and her team have experience with absentee sellers. Deb walked me through the process and I was able to relax and concentrate on being with my husband. I have worked with other real estate agents in the past. Deb Beran Properties is in a class of its own. I highly recommend Deb Beran and her team. Susan Landsidle

I was new to the SML area and what I wanted (small house/big yard) was not available. Peg had so much patience. She showed me every option, around all sides of the lake without any hesitation or pressure. Peg also suggested what I didn’t consider, a perfect location that only had condos and townhomes. I immediately knew I wanted to live there. But nothing was for sale. A few weeks later Peg became aware of a unit that had just come on the market. I was on my way out of town but she reached me, showed me the place, had all the answers as I asked about fees, inspections, covenants, etc. She is the master of detailed, accurate comps. With Peg, I had great confidence that she acted in my best interest at all times. She is trustworthy and an agent of unquestionable integrity. Her character matters. I bought the condo with confidence and love living here. Wendy H.

Dear Deb,
Your continued support of our mission to help fight cancer means the world to us! Without the generous use of your wonderful truck, our shop would not continue. A small thank you for your generous heart. The Discovery Shop Transportation Committee

Dear Deb & Bob,
Thank you for your kind words, thoughts, prayers and friendship. We don’t know how we would have coped without your support. Oskar meant so much to us, he was out first child, and we miss him everyday. You both went above and beyond for us and we are forever grateful.With Love, Taylor, Brandie, Oskar & Emma

Deb, Our second Chicken Barbeque drive-thru event was another great success. Our local business partnerships and the community support we have are incredible. Due to this we are able to have the latest vehicles and equipment to serve our community and help keep our department members safe while we provide services. Thank you for your generous support of the Scruggs Volunteer Fire & Rescue Dept. Chicken Barbeque and hope you will consider supporting us again next year.June 2021
Chief Dempsey Moore and
Scruggs Volunteer Fire & Rescue Dept.

Deborah Beran and her Re/Max team were phenomenal throughout the entire home buying process. We searched a variety of properties from land/lots and fixer uppers, to more modern homes. She was patient in our search and provided helpful tips on properties and locations. Within a few months, we found our home, closed on it and now have a great family vacation home.

Deb’s knowledge of the area as well as a fully vetted list of contacts really made the home buying experience a breeze. Through her contacts list, we found a home inspection company, a mortgage company, and a closing attorney who came to her office. Her knowledge of SML and the people in the area continue to help us even after closing, we now have a reputable electrician, a dock guy, a tree service, and a landscape company.

Deb Beran and her team are truly a gem in the beautiful Smith Mountain Lake area.Lisa Barr

We thoroughly enjoyed working with Deb Beran on the sale of our home at Smith Mountain Lake. From the moment we first contacted her about the possibility of selling, she was responsive, knowledgeable and informative. She prepared a market analysis for our home, giving us her opinion on the value supported by comps, market trends and other data. With her years of experience and extensive knowledge of the market, we felt confident in Deb’s insights and abilities.

Once we made our decision to sell, Deb was with us every step of the way. Believe me when I say, she went above and beyond in helping us prepare the house for sale. She helped us in ways I dare say no other realtor would have! She is a treasure! Her energy, humor and positive attitude are reassuring during a stressful time. Thanks to Deb’s preparations and pre-marketing of our home, we had an offer within 48 hours of being officially on the market! She skillfully managed our contract negotiations and every situation that arose during the home inspection, appraisal and closing the deal. She was a calm voice of reason and experience that kept things moving along smoothly.

We highly recommend Deb Beran for any real estate needs anyone may have. Not only is she a lot of fun to work with, she’s also knowledgeable, resourceful and extremely responsive! She also has connections and resources for most anything you’ll be needing during the process of buying or selling a home. On a scale of 1 to 10, Deb is at the top with a 10! You can’t go wrong trusting your real estate transactions to her and her team!Rob & Ravelle Whitener

Dear Deb,
Just want to say “Thank You” so very much for all your help and kindness. I thought of you when I saw this card. The sunflowers are bright, sunny and perky, just like you!

You were so very helpful in all aspects of the sale in both homes. The use of your truck was wonderful! Even helping unload! Charlie and I are loving all the sights and sounds. We had wild turkey come by the other day when it was snowing. We watched the full moon the other night. Charlie took pictures to show at work. He said he felt like he had been here his whole life! We are happy as can be in our cozy new “home”!

Thank You! We love it HERE!

PS: Thanks again for your gift! You are a very caring person. Happy Easter!Janey & Charlie

Dear Debbie,
Thank you for your generous support of The Jennifer Fund. Due to the overwhelming turnout at the golf outing and contributions, we will soon be able to dedicate a consult room in the new University of Virginia Children’s Hospital. This room will be in honor and memory of R. W. Thompson. Before Ronnie passed, he had a sparkle in his eye whenever we talked about the future of The Jennifer Fund in regards to assisting sick children and their families. He gave so much time and energy to this cause and we hope to continue to fulfill his vision.Gratefully, Ginny

Deb-
I’m writing a short note of thanks to you regarding the purchase of my condo at Bernard’s Landing and for the “goodie package”, we have been enjoying it. We have enjoyed our time here, and agree, once you come to the lake, it’s hard to leave!

You took the time to listen to our needs, discuss with us options and truly understand what we wanted. You have a great knowledge of the real estate marketplace in the Smith Mountain Lake area, and have developed excellent working relationships with others associated with buying and selling of real estate.
Even the simplest real estate transactions can get tense and emotional, and you gave reassurance and provided sound advice throughout the process. Also, thanks for the use of your moving van “Maxine”, it was a great help as well!

Your professionalism and responsiveness was truly valued and separates you from the average realtor and we greatly appreciate the time and energy you put into working with us. I certainly am happy to serve as a referral and would recommend you to anyone who needs the experience and expertise of an excellent real estate professional in the Smith Mountain Lake area.

Thank you again, we hope to see you around!With warm regards, Brian Arnholt

Dear Deb- We want you to know how much we all here at the Agape Center appreciate you allowing us to use your truck. What a blessing it was and you are! God Bless.Betty Ann Allen, Lonnie Allen, Gordy Harper, Judy Harper

Deb, you are the exceptional realtor in my opinion. Master of follow ups, staying in contact etc with your past and future real estate prospects. The card with “When you think you can or can’t do something, you are probably right” by Henry Ford was great. Also perfect timing as Kroger announced they are acquiring Harris Teeter here in NC. Appreciate the gift card.Jeff and Jo Taylor

We want to thank you so much for representing us in the sale of our home. You did a wonderful job in advertising and marketing, as well as counseling us so ably during the negotiation process. During these tough economic times, your optimism, enthusiasm and professionalism kept us going. Thanks again.Jim and Jo Ann Harllee

Deb was wonderful in looking into details that I would have never thought of … FEMA maps, flood plains, Smith Mountain Lake property lines, county and neighborhood bylaws and lots of other things. She went above and beyond before, during, and after our closing. A pleasure to work with!Vic and Laura Goradia

Deb is easy to work with and learned quickly what I was and was not looking for, which meant my time was being spent wisely. Also, she was extremely knowledgeable, able to answer or find the answer. Additionally, she recognized a problem with the property lines that even the lawyer had not yet discovered, so we would recommend her to anyone who is looking for Smith Mountain Lake property.Betty Konchar

Deb came to us as a highly recommended realtor and she proved her reputation was well earned. She was very professional, thorough and provided some very good advice pertaining to the mechanics involved with the negotiation and closing process. She was a pleasure to work with and would highly recommend her to the seasoned as well as a first-time buyer.Verne & Marie Campbell

Deb is a great friend and realtor! She listened to our needs, came up with several options and found the perfect house for us! We couldn’t have done it without her. She is a very personal realtor without the pressure! Thanks, Deb.Phil & Betsy Gentry

Deb is very easy to work with and very accommodating to my schedule. She is very knowledgeable about the market and in explaining any conflicts of interest that might exist. She help structure and negotiate my offer to get the best deal for me. Deb and her staff facilitated the entire buying process from offer to closing—including getting permits for septic and dock, lining up the closing agent and meeting with the developer to discuss what can be done with the lot, etc. In other words, I believe that she really earned her fee!Ray and Candy Nasser

We have worked with Deborah Beran on two Real Estate transactions. In both cases her services and attention to our needs were excellent. We feel her marketing skills are second to none at the lake and exceeded our expectations. We always felt informed and that our best interests were served. We would definitely use her again and recommend her highly.Fred & Chris Tscheulin

You did a super job for us. Your knowledge of the region and Smith Mountain Lake property value was great. Knowledge of what had to be done to satisfy county with septic, etc. was up to date. Need a REAL ESTATE AGENT – Buy or Sell – Call Deborah Beran.Donald and Treva Lowe

The fact that I have used your Realtor services twice and recommend you twice (both of which resulted in a “closure”) is about the best compliment I could give you. Best regards.Ernie & Pat Staggers

Deborah, Jane and I are very pleased to provide a reference to you. We have very much enjoyed working with you on our two transactions and hopefully a third will be in the future. You are one of the few realtors that we do not have to follow up on. Your honesty, sincerity, knowledge and professionalism have made us huge fans. Best of luck,JA and Jane Savage

Dear Deborah, Thank you so much for being so caring and kind in a stressful time of our lives. You were GREAT to say the least. Thanks for the gift bag with SML reminders of the wonderful times we have experienced.Jim and Arlene Ebbs

Thanks again for representing me in my recent Smith Mountain Lake property transaction. Initially, your expertise was apparent when you listed and priced my home. Your advertising and marketing was unique and exceeded my expectations. Your personal investment so near to closing was invaluable and needless to say, greatly appreciated. Recommending you to others as a Realtor would come easy to me and I will pass your name along whenever the opportunity presents itself.Shirley B. Smith

The Beran & Steele Team had a level of class and professionalism that we were proud to have representing us in the sale of our property. The marketing materials that you developed were outstanding and of award winning caliber. Your team would be my first recommendation for anyone selling Smith Mountain Lake property in the higher end price range.Jim Hinson

From the first time we met to talk abut purchasing Smith Mountain Lake property, you were very friendly and professional. What I liked most was that we were treated not only as a client but also as a friend. You went the extra mile when we were looking to help us find what we wanted. It makes it such a pleasure to deal with someone as yourself. If I were to purchase again, you are the only Realtor I would work with and if asked by anyone you are the only Realtor I would recommend. It has bee a pleasure working with you over the past years. Thanks, again.Charlie Dull

You have always done an exceptional job as our realtor. Through four sales and five purchases you have kept up with every detail as if it were your own Smith Mountain Lake property you were buying or selling. We would be happy to recommend you and your team to anyone we know in need of realtor services. Thanks for all your help and kindness.Mike & Martta Edwards

I’d like to say a big THANK YOU to my realtor, Deborah Beran, for all she has done for me and Crystal as we deal with the nonsense we are having to deal with trying to get to closing. If anyone ever needs a realtor in the Smith Mountain Lake or Roanoke area, or just anywhere in this part of Virginia, give her a call. Trust me, you’ll be very happy!Edward Magalhaes