dirt.base: Last 35 Posts

dirt.base: Last 35 Posts http://highcountrydirt.com/dirt.blog/dirt.base/ dirt.base: Last 35 Posts en Wed, 03 Dec 2008 22:35:02 +0000 EDITOR on "Where to Golf in the High Country" http://highcountrydirt.com/dirt.blog/dirt.base/topic.php?id=45#post-46 Mon, 21 Apr 2008 18:01:44 +0000 EDITOR 46@http://highcountrydirt.com/dirt.blog/dirt.base/ Avery Elk River Club Hwy 194, Banner Elk ph. (828)898-9773 Grandfather Golf & Country Club Hwy 105, Linville ph. (828)898-4531 Land Harbor Golf Club Hwy 221, Linville ph. (828)733-8325 Linville Golf Club 83 Roseboro Rd, Linville ph. (828)733-4363 Mountain Glen Golf Course Hwy 194, Newland ph. (828)733-5804 The Beech Mountain Club Clubhouse Rd, Beech Mountain ph. (828)387-2372 Village of Sugar Mountain Golf Course Sugar Mountain Dr, Banner Elk ph. (828)898-6464 Ashe Jefferson Landing on the New River address: Hwy 16-88, Jefferson phone: (336)982-7767 Mountain Aire Golf Club address: 1104 Golf Course Rd, West Jefferson phone: (336)877-4716 Alleghany Crestview Golf Course 215 Crestview Ln, Ennice ph. (336)657-3471 High Meadows Golf & Country Club 355 Country Club Rd, Roaring Gap ph. (336)363-2445 New River Country Club Golf Course Rd, Twin Oaks ph. (336)372-4869 Olde Beau Golf Club Hwy 21, Roaring Gap ph. (336)363-3333 Roaring Gap Golf Club Route 1, Roaring Gap ph. (336)363-2861 Caldwell Cedar Rock Country Club 450 Cedar Rock Estates Dr, Lenoir ph. (828)758-4421 Country Acres Golf Club 1875 Beaver-Hilton Way, Lenoir ph. (828)754-1992 Granada Farms Country Club 10 River Dr, Granite Falls ph. (828)396-2313 Lenoir Golf Course 701 Norwood St SW, Lenoir ph. (828)754-5093 Orchard Hills Golf Course 2515 Connelly Springs Rd, Granite Falls ph. (828)728-3560 Watauga Blowing Rock Country Club Country Club Dr, Blowing Rock ph. (828)295-7311 Boone Golf Club 433 Fairway Dr, Boone ph. (828)264-8760 Hound Ears Club address: Route 3 Hwy 105 S, Boone phone: (828)963-5831 view more details Red Tail Mountain Hwy 421, Mountain City ph. 877-488-4646 Willow Creek Golf Course Bairds Creek Rd Hwy 105, Boone ph. (828)963-6865 Willow Creek Golf Course 354 Bairds Creek Rd, Boone ph. (828) 963-655 mikecoulter on "home/deck painting refinishing" http://highcountrydirt.com/dirt.blog/dirt.base/topic.php?id=44#post-45 Sat, 19 Apr 2008 11:55:52 +0000 mikecoulter 45@http://highcountrydirt.com/dirt.blog/dirt.base/ most wanted painting mikecoulter on "home/deck painting refinishing" http://highcountrydirt.com/dirt.blog/dirt.base/topic.php?id=44#post-44 Sat, 19 Apr 2008 11:55:11 +0000 mikecoulter 44@http://highcountrydirt.com/dirt.blog/dirt.base/ house painting EDITOR on "A Few Great Communities in the High Country" http://highcountrydirt.com/dirt.blog/dirt.base/topic.php?id=43#post-43 Sun, 30 Mar 2008 03:47:31 +0000 EDITOR 43@http://highcountrydirt.com/dirt.blog/dirt.base/ Linville Ridge <a href="http://www.linvilleridge.com/" rel="nofollow">http://www.linvilleridge.com/</a> Echota <a href="http://www.echotanc.com/" rel="nofollow">http://www.echotanc.com/</a> Jefferson Landing <a href="http://www.jeffersonlandingclub.com/" rel="nofollow">http://www.jeffersonlandingclub.com/</a> Eagles Nest <a href="http://www.eaglesnestbe.com/" rel="nofollow">http://www.eaglesnestbe.com/</a> Hound Ears <a href="http://www.houndears.com/" rel="nofollow">http://www.houndears.com/</a> The Reserve <a href="http://www.thereserveatsugarmountain.com/" rel="nofollow">http://www.thereserveatsugarmountain.com/</a> Stonegate <a href="http://stonegatenc.com/" rel="nofollow">http://stonegatenc.com/</a> Ginn Laurelmor <a href="http://www.laurelmor.com/" rel="nofollow">http://www.laurelmor.com/</a> Twin Rivers <a href="http://www.twinriversnc.com/" rel="nofollow">http://www.twinriversnc.com/</a> Sunalei Preserve <a href="http://www.sunaleipreserve.com/main.asp" rel="nofollow">http://www.sunaleipreserve.com/main.asp</a> Sweet Grass <a href="http://www.sweetgrass.com/" rel="nofollow">http://www.sweetgrass.com/</a> Headwaters <a href="http://www.headwatersnc.com/" rel="nofollow">http://www.headwatersnc.com/</a> Wilderness Trail <a href="http://wildernesstrailnc.com/" rel="nofollow">http://wildernesstrailnc.com/</a> Mountain Aire <a href="http://www.mountainaire.com/" rel="nofollow">http://www.mountainaire.com/</a> Grandfather Golf & Country Club <a href="http://www.grandfatherclub.org/" rel="nofollow">http://www.grandfatherclub.org/</a> EDITOR on "Boone General Information" http://highcountrydirt.com/dirt.blog/dirt.base/topic.php?id=41#post-41 Tue, 18 Mar 2008 14:23:19 +0000 EDITOR 41@http://highcountrydirt.com/dirt.blog/dirt.base/ Location/Population Boone is the Heart of the High Country and the premier “quality of life” community of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Consistently ranked as one of the “Best Small Towns in America,” Boone is a bustling university town and the center of tourism and commerce for Watauga County and the region. Known for its excellence in health care, education, shopping and the arts, Boone offers a palette of opportunity surrounded by four seasons of changing scenery. Watauga County in northwestern North Carolina has a land area of 321 square miles and adjoins Tennessee. Elevations here range from 2,000 to 6,000 feet above sea level. Boone, the county seat, has an area of about 4 square miles and an average altitude of 3,333 feet. Boone is a comfortable drive from I-77, I-81 and I-40 and is served by four major highways that intersect in Boone, US 421, US 321, US 221 and NC 105. Climate/Weather Boone’s climate is temperate with comfortable summers, dazzling autumn colors, a skier’s paradise come winter and crisp, green springtimes. The information reported here are approximations. Our website features accurate weather data and the most reliable forecasts all year-round: <a href="http://www.boonechamber.com." rel="nofollow">www.boonechamber.com.</a> History Historians note that this area was originally explored in 1752 by Bishop August Gottlieb Spangenberg of Pennsylvania, who was seeking land in the “back country” of North Carolina for Moravian colonists to settle. Although the Cherokee had hunted seasonally in this region, the first permanent settlers came from Pennsylvania, New Jersey and New England. Jordan Council established a store in what is now downtown Boone. Watauga County was formed in 1849, and the Town of Boone, which was incorporated in 1872, was named for the legendary Daniel Boone, who first explored and hunted in the region during the 1760s. Licenses Vehicles NC License Plate Agency- Watauga County is currently served by the Ashe County office: 302 Graybeal Avenue, 28694. (336) 846-7181. Hours: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday 9am-1pm; 2pm-5pm, Wednesday, 9am-noon. Vehicle registration and license tags must be obtained within 30 days of becoming a North Carolina resident. Driver’s License NC Driver’s License Office: Mutton Crossing, 4469 Bamboo Rd., 265-5384. Requirements: Must be obtained within 60 days of North Carolina residency, written exam, vision test, proof of insurance, license from former residence, road test for new drivers. Fee is $10-20. Marriage License Watauga County Register of Deeds, Watauga County Courthouse, 842 W. King St., Boone, 265-8052. Requirements: Birth certificate, Social Security card and driver’s license, if under 21; parental permission if under 18; two witnesses at proceedings; documentation if recently divorced. Fee is $50. Pet License Watauga County Courthouse, 814 W. King St., Boone. Tax Collections, 265-8036. Dogs in Watauga County should be licensed annually. Cost is $2 per animal. Government Watauga County Watauga County Manager’s Office, Watauga County Courthouse, 842 W. King St., Boone, 265-8000. Watauga County operates under a county commission-manager government. The Board of Commissioners has five members, nominated from separate districts and elected county-wide. Terms are staggered. The board meets twice a month in the commissioners meeting room at the Courthouse. Watauga County Parks & Recreation, 231 Complex Drive, Boone, 264-9511. Town of Boone Boone Town Hall, 567 W. King St., Boone, 262-4530. Boone operates under a council-manager form of government with a five-member council and a mayor who determine policy for the town. A professional manager implements policy. The council meets once a month in Town Council Chambers, 1500 Blowing Rock Road, Boone. Town of Blowing Rock Blowing Rock Town Hall, 1036 Main St., Blowing Rock, 295-5200. Town of Beech Mountain Beech Mountain Town Hall, 403 Beech Mountain Parkway, Beech Mountain, 387-4236. Town of Seven Devils Seven Devils Town Hall, 1356 Seven Devils Road, Seven Devils 963-5343. Public Safety Emergency Police, Fire, Ambulance or Rescue.....911 Non-Emergency Boone Police.....262-4500 Blowing Rock Police.....295-5210 Watauga County Sheriff.....264-3761 Appalachian State University Police.....262-2150 Boone Fire Department.....262-4520 Carolina Poison Control.....(800) 848-6946 Watauga County Crimestoppers.....262-4500 Utilities Electricity Watauga County (Outside Boone and ASU) Blue Ridge Electric Membership Corp., 2491 US 421, Boone, 264-8894. Boone and ASU New River Light & Power Co., 146 Faculty St. Extension, Boone, 264-3671. Water & Sewer (Boone) Town of Boone Public Services Department, 321 E. King St., 262-4550. Solid Waste Management Watauga County operates staffed Container Sites throughout the county. Watauga County Sanitation Department, 264-5305. Garbage Disposal Service, Inc. (GDS), 264-3689. Town of Boone Public Services Department, 321 E. King St., 262-4550. Telephone/Telecommunications BellSouth Residential - (888)757-6500 Business Service - (866) 620-6000 Skyline Telephone Membership Corp. (800) 759-2226 or (828) 963-1350 Medical Facilities Watauga Medical Center 336 Deerfield Road, Boone, (828) 262-4100 or (800) 443-7385. Watauga Medical Center is a well-equipped, rural referral, acute care facility, licensed with 117 beds. Cardiac/intensive care, intermediate care, restorative and outpatient surgery. There are more than 85 physicians on staff, providing comprehensive and specialty care. The Seby B. Jones Regional Cancer Center provides oncology care and treatments, 262-4332. The Medical Center has a 24-hour physician-staffed emergency room and has air access via helicopter to tertiary care and trauma centers in Charlotte and Winston-Salem. Blowing Rock Hospital & Skilled Nursing Facility 416 Chestnut Drive, Blowing Rock, 295-3136. Blowing Rock Hospital is a private, nonprofit hospital licensed with 100 beds. Acute care, intermediate care and skilled care. A physician’s office complex is adjacent to the hospital. The hospital offers routine outpatient and laboratory services along with 24-hour emergency service. Charles A. Cannon Jr. Memorial Hospital 434 Hospital Drive, Linville, 828-737-7000 Watauga County Health Department 141 Health Center Drive, Boone, 264-6635. The Watauga County Health Department provides an array of services to the community, including home health care, public health nurse in-home service, a dental health program, health education materials for schools, a general clinic, special medical services, a pediatric clinic, maternity and family planning clinics and a multiphasic screening clinic. The Environmental Health Program covers inspections of meat markets, restaurants, school cafeterias, rest homes, foster homes, hotels and motels, day care centers and other institutions. The program is also responsible for monitoring septic tank systems, water supplies and solid waste disposal systems. Extended Care/Assisted Living/Nursing Homes Deerfield Ridge Assisted Living, 287 Bamboo Rd., Boone, 264-0336. Glenbridge Health & Rehabilitation, 211 Milton Brown Heirs Rd., Boone, 264-6720. Life Care Center, P.O. Box 2199, Banner Elk, 898-5136. Retirement Living Appalachian/Brian Estates, 163 Shadowline Drive, Boone, 264-1006. Grace Ridge Retirement Community, 500 Lenoir Rd., Morganton, 580-7300. Education Watauga County Board of Education, Jefferson Highway, Boone, 264-7190. Eight elementary schools (K-8) and one high school. Caldwell Community College & Technical Institute, Watauga Campus, 297-2185. The college offers associate degrees, technical training, continuing education and specialized classes to meet the needs of business and industry. Appalachian State University, 262-2000. Appalachian is one of 16 campuses in the University of North Carolina System. Enrollment is about 14,050 students with 2,000+ faculty and staff employees. Watauga County Public Library, 264-8784. Western Watauga Branch, 297-5515. Free library services to area residents. The Watauga County Library provides recreational reading and programming for adults and children, high speed Internet access, reference service, videos, magazines, CDs and tax forms. Other Educational-Oriented Facilities: Appalachian Christian School, 265-0018 Children’s Council of Watauga County, 262-5424 Lees-McRae College, 898-5241 Mountain Pathways Montessori School, 262-5787 North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service, 264-3061 Two Rivers Community School, 265-4068 Communications Newspapers Watauga Democrat, 474 Industrial Park Dr., Boone, 264-3612. Fax: 262-0282. <a href="http://www.wataugademocrat.com" rel="nofollow">www.wataugademocrat.com</a> The Mountain News, P.O. Box 152, Boone, 264-2262. The Mountain Times, 474 Industrial Park Dr., Boone, 264-6397. Fax: 264-8536. <a href="http://www.mountaintimes.com" rel="nofollow">www.mountaintimes.com</a> Television Charter Communications, 755 George Wilson Rd., Boone, 828-264-8248. <a href="http://www.chartercom.com" rel="nofollow">www.chartercom.com</a> Mountain Television Network (MTN), 643-F Greenway Road, Boone, 262-0990. Fax: 262-0038. <a href="http://www.mtntv.com" rel="nofollow">www.mtntv.com</a> Housing & Real Estate Avery-Watauga Association of Realtors, 262-5437. <a href="http://www.awaronline.org" rel="nofollow">www.awaronline.org</a> Contact the Chamber at (828) 264-2225 or visit the Chamber web site at <a href="http://www.boonechamber.com" rel="nofollow">www.boonechamber.com</a> for a complete and up-to-date listing of Chamber members businesses in these categories: Transportation Air Haven Limousine Service, 265-2504 AppalCART, 264-CART Local public bus and van transportation Enterprise Rent-A-Car, 268-9761 Automobile Rental Agency Area Commercial Airports (Distance to Boone) Johnson City, TN (60 miles) Tri-Cities Regional, (423) 325-6000 Asheville, NC (95 miles) Regional (828) 687-9446 Charlotte, NC (100 miles) Douglas International (704) 359-4000 Greensboro, NC (115 miles) Piedmont Triad Int\’l. (336) 852-6450 Hickory, NC (55 miles) Regional (828) 323-7408 With the introduction of Delta Connection's all-jet service at the Hickory Regional Airport, Boone is now just 45 minutes away from Atlanta and the world. The Hickory Regional Airport has free parking, and is perfect for ASU students, parents, staff and faculty. Visitors can rent a car, and drive right up to Boone. Morganton, NC (50 miles) Morganton-Lenoir Reg. (828) 757-0099 Area Private Airports Boone Airport, 265-3598 Employment Information Major Employers Alphabetical Listing - Chamber Members Appalachian Ski Mountain Appalachian State University Belk Town of Boone Caldwell Community College & Technical Institute Carroll Companies Charleston Forge Chetola Resort at Blowing Rock Harris Teeter J.C. Penney Lowe’s Companies Samaritan’s Purse Ski Beech Sugar Mountain Resort TT electronics (IRC) Tweetsie Railroad Wal-Mart Watauga County Watauga County Board of Education Watauga Medical Center Some offer seasonal employment opportunities. Employment Resources JobLink Career Center, 265-5385 <a href="http://www.esc.state.nc.us" rel="nofollow">www.esc.state.nc.us</a> or <a href="http://www.WataugaJobs.com" rel="nofollow">www.WataugaJobs.com</a> Employment Staffing, Inc., 263-9625 On the Clock Employment Services, 265-1266 EDITOR on "Fact's & Figures" http://highcountrydirt.com/dirt.blog/dirt.base/topic.php?id=40#post-40 Tue, 18 Mar 2008 14:22:57 +0000 EDITOR 40@http://highcountrydirt.com/dirt.blog/dirt.base/ <a href="http://www.trulia.com/real_estate/Blowing_Rock-North_Carolina/" rel="nofollow">http://www.trulia.com/real_estate/Blowing_Rock-North_Carolina/</a> <a href="http://www.trulia.com/real_estate/Boone-North_Carolina/" rel="nofollow">http://www.trulia.com/real_estate/Boone-North_Carolina/</a> <a href="http://www.trulia.com/real_estate/West_Jefferson-North_Carolina/" rel="nofollow">http://www.trulia.com/real_estate/West_Jefferson-North_Carolina/</a> <a href="http://www.trulia.com/real_estate/banner_Elk-North_Carolina/" rel="nofollow">http://www.trulia.com/real_estate/banner_Elk-North_Carolina/</a> <a href="http://www.trulia.com/real_estate/Valle_Crucis-North_Carolina/" rel="nofollow">http://www.trulia.com/real_estate/Valle_Crucis-North_Carolina/</a> EDITOR on "Mortgage Concepts Home Buyers Should Know" http://highcountrydirt.com/dirt.blog/dirt.base/topic.php?id=39#post-39 Thu, 13 Mar 2008 12:38:49 +0000 EDITOR 39@http://highcountrydirt.com/dirt.blog/dirt.base/ by Jack M. Guttentag Do you know your mortgage ABC's? Home purchasers sometimes get into trouble because they are not clued into the sequence of steps involved in financing their purchase. These are qualification, pre-approval, approval, and lock. Qualification Qualification (or pre-qualification, as it is often called) is an opinion that your income, assets, and current debts qualify you for a loan of some specified amount. The opinion may come from a lender or a Realtor, or it may be your own based on your use of an affordability calculator. Whatever the source, the opinion does not take your credit into account, and no one is committed by it. It used to be that Realtors did a lot of qualifications, often back-of-the-envelope affairs, so that they would not waste time looking for houses in a price range the buyer could not afford. Increasingly, they ask borrowers to become pre-approved by a lender because it is more reliable than a qualification, and lenders are willing to provide it free of charge as a way of stimulating business. Home sellers have also learned to ask potential buyers for a pre-approval. Pre-Approval Pre-approval is a conditional commitment by a lender to make a loan prior to the identification of a specific property. On a pre-approval, unlike a qualification, the lender verifies the information you provide and checks your credit. A pre-approval will stipulate a loan amount or monthly payment, but not necessarily the loan type or the price. The lender's commitment under a pre-approval is always conditional, but rarely are the conditions spelled out. Pre-approvals don't have expiration dates, but some considerable time may elapse before the borrower receiving a pre-approval comes back to convert it into an approval. During that period, things can happen that cause the lender to back off. For example, the borrower's credit deteriorates, or she loses her job. No one can reasonably expect a lender to approve a loan in those circumstances. Less clear-cut are the impacts of adverse market changes -- such as the tightening of underwriting requirements that occurred last year -- on outstanding pre-approvals. If a lender has pre-approved a loan and the market changes to the point where the same loan would not now be approvable, will the lender honor its obligation? I fear that in most if not all cases, the answer is "no." Fortunately, abrupt changes in underwriting rules occur very infrequently. Approval Approval is a commitment by a lender to make a loan. Unlike a pre-approval, a specific property (along with its appraised value) is identified, and the loan details are spelled out. These include the type and purpose of the loan, down payment, and type of documentation. It will also include an interest rate, even though a rate is not firmly established until it is locked. The presumption underlying an approval is that the probability of closure is high -- much higher than with a pre-approval. It is not 100 percent, however, because borrowers sometimes drop out, and sometimes one or more of the conditions that accompany the approval are not met. Approval letters contain "Prior to Doc" and "Prior to Funding" conditions, which are checklists of nitty-gritty details that must be completed before the final documents are drawn and before funds are disbursed. Sometimes, one of these details derails the train. Lock Lock is a commitment by the lender to a specified price -- rate and points. Ordinarily, lenders lock at the borrower's request and view the borrower as being committed as well, though they don't always communicate this very well, or at all. Since locking imposes a cost on lenders, some of them charge a nonrefundable fee which may be credited back to the borrower at closing. I recommend that prospective home buyers qualify themselves, since they are much better positioned to know what they can afford than anyone else. To figure qualify yourself, you can use calculator 5a on my Web site. I recommend that prospective home buyers get pre-approved as a way of establishing their bona fides to home sellers and Realtors. Only one pre-approval is needed, and it does not commit them to the issuing lender. It is only fair, however, to include that lender among the loan providers you shop when you have a contract to purchase and need a loan. But bear in mind that if you switch to B after being pre-approved by A, you must now be approved by B. I recommend that, when your loan is approved, you lock the price the same day, because that is when you know the price. Holding off because you expect market interest rates to decline is a bad gamble. You don't know how to forecast future interest rates any more than I do. Besides, unless you can monitor your rate on the lender's Web site, the market rate when you finally lock will be what the lender says it is. From Yahoo Finance <a href="http://finance.yahoo.com/expert/article/mortgage/71341;_ylt=Ah5lvwL6hdbfWse43AAhLTtfo9IF" rel="nofollow">http://finance.yahoo.com/expert/article/mortgage/71341;_ylt=Ah5lvwL6hdbfWse43AAhLTtfo9IF</a> EDITOR on "Save Money on Utilities" http://highcountrydirt.com/dirt.blog/dirt.base/topic.php?id=38#post-38 Tue, 11 Mar 2008 20:09:48 +0000 EDITOR 38@http://highcountrydirt.com/dirt.blog/dirt.base/ Keeping your home comfortable year round can put the squeeze on your budget. Consumers spend 6% to 12% of their income on utilities, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. Here are 15 quick, cheap and easy ways to cut your electricity, heat and water use while also cutting your expenses by hundreds of dollars: More From Kiplinger's Personal Finance • How to Save on Practically Everything • Ways to Cut Your Transportation Costs • Budget Friendly Travel Tips Take a Flier on Fluorescents Compact fluorescent bulbs represent one of the brightest ideas for cooling your electric bill. (Not every CFL produces a warm, candlelight glow. To achieve that effect, look for one with a Kelvin temperature of 2,600 to 3,000.) Don't let the price of CFLs -- as much as $7 each -- turn you off. The lights not only last ten times longer than incandescents but also save up to $60 in electricity per light over their lifetime Vanquish the Vampires Appliances that include a clock or operate by a remote, as well as chargers, are sucking electricity even when you're not using them. Of the total energy used to run home electronics, 40% is consumed when the appliances are turned off. The obvious way to pull the plug on so-called energy vampires is to do just that -- pull the plug. Or buy a device to do it for you, such as a Smart Power Strip ($31 to $44, at <a href="http://www.smarthomeusa.com" rel="nofollow">www.smarthomeusa.com</a>), which will stop drawing electricity when the gadgets are off, and pay for itself within a few months. Insulate Your Water Heater Is your coffee mug more insulated than your water heater? The newest electric water heaters have plenty of insulation. But if you have one built before 2004, wrap it in an insulating jacket such as a Thermwell blanket ($20; Amazon.com). You'll save 10% -- about $30 -- annually on your water-heating bill. Service the Furnace Have your furnace tuned every two years, and you'll save about 10% on your heating bills. Turn Down the Heat For every degree you lower your home's temperature during the heating season, subtract 5% from your bill, according to the Alliance to Save Energy. An Energy Star programmable thermostat ($70 at <a href="http://www.livingincomfort.com" rel="nofollow">www.livingincomfort.com</a>) saves more than twice its price within a year and will adjust the temperature automatically for you when you're away or asleep. Set the Washer to Cold Use cold water to wash your clothes and save 50% of the energy you would otherwise use for hot water. Set your dryer on the moisture sensor, not the timer, and cut energy use by 15%. Stop Drafts As your father would say, don't heat or cool the great outdoors. Put weatherstrip around the frames of your front and back doors and save about $30 per year in energy costs. Lower Your Water Temperature Set your water heater at 120 degrees Fahrenheit. If your heater does not have a temperature gauge, dial down until the water feels hot, not scalding. (Before going too low, make sure your dishwasher has a booster heater, which gets the temperature back to 140 degrees, necessary for proper cleaning.) Use Timers on Lights Install occupancy sensors or timers on lights in areas you use only occasionally and for exterior lights, which tend to get left on during the day. The devices start at $25 per switch at <a href="http://www.homecontrols.com." rel="nofollow">www.homecontrols.com.</a> Anyone with basic wiring skills can install them. Go Low-Flow With a few twists of the wrist, you can save 25% to 60% of the water it takes and 50% of the energy necessary to shower and shampoo you and your family. Install a low-flow shower head, which restricts the water output to no more than 2.5 gallons per minute. The shower heads generally run $10 to $20 a pop (some utility companies give them away) and screw into existing fittings. Older shower heads send as many as 5.5 gallons per minute down the drain. The new fixtures go as low as 1.5 gpm, saving 7,300 gallons and $30 to $100 a year over their 2.5-gpm counterparts. Plug the Leaks A leaky faucet wastes as much as 2,700 gallons in a year -- if it doesn't drive you crazy first. So fix it already. Test the toilet for leaks, too. Put a drop of food coloring in the toilet tank. If the color shows up in the bowl, your tank is leaking, and you're wasting up to 200 gallons of water a day. Fill 'Er Up Run full loads of clothes and dishes. Most of the energy used by dishwashers is to heat a set amount of water, so running smaller loads wastes both energy and water. Air dry dishes for added energy savings. Take Care With Yard Care Water your outdoor plants in the early morning, before the sun can burn off moisture. And take care not to over-water. Before starting your sprinkler, step on the grass. If the blades spring back, hold off on watering for a day or two. The average lawn needs only one hour of watering a week. Also, raise your mower blades to the 3-inch setting. Shaggy grass holds moisture longer, requiring less watering. Be a Drip For gardens, consider installing a drip irrigation system, which maintains moisture in the soil. Drip irrigation can reduce water loss by 50% to 60% when compared with hand-watering or sprinkler systems. A drip system consists of a tube or hose with holes or emitters along it. It uses a timer to deliver water to plants. By maintaining the moisture level of the soil, less water is lost to the sun and the wind. Retrofit Your Faucets Consider faucet aerators -- doohickeys that screw into your faucet threading and cut the water flow from 3 to 4 gallons per minute to as little as a half-gallon. As their name suggests, aerators blend water and air, reducing the flow without sacrificing pressure. At 50 cents to $3 apiece, the devices are some of the cheapest green gadgets available. Aerators come in a range of flow rates. A faucet that flows at 1 gpm gets is fine for the bathroom faucet. But for a little more oomph in the kitchen, use an aerator with a flow rate of at least 2 gpm. Copyrighted, Kiplinger Washington Editors, Inc. EDITOR on "Housing: Best Time to Buy in Four Years" http://highcountrydirt.com/dirt.blog/dirt.base/topic.php?id=37#post-37 Tue, 11 Mar 2008 20:03:50 +0000 EDITOR 37@http://highcountrydirt.com/dirt.blog/dirt.base/ It may be the best time to buy a house in more than four years. Home prices have dropped so quickly and so far that valuations - the difference between what a home should cost and its actual price - are the lowest they've been since 2004, according to a report. The Cleveland-based bank National City Corp., together with financial analysis firm Global Insight, revealed Tuesday that more than 88% of the 330 housing markets surveyed showed price declines and improved affordability during the last three months of 2007. More from CNNMoney.com: • Housing rescue: What you need to know • Mortgage applications up slightly • Hope Now: We've helped 1M home owners "Housing valuations are almost back to long-term norms," said National City's chief economist, Richard DeKaser. He called current affordability "the best in the past four years." But DeKaser cautioned that home prices could fall even further. "This isn't to say home price declines are over," he said. "We could move below historic norms. By the end of 2008, housing markets could be broadly under valued." Prices still improving There are still 21 housing markets, or 6% of those surveyed, that are severely over valued, including Atlantic City and Madera, Calif. That's down from 56 overvalued markets at the peak of the housing bubble in 2006. housing_chart2_03.jpg The report compares actual median home prices with what the authors determine are proper home values based on population density, relative income levels and interest rates, as well as historically observed market premiums or discounts, to determine whether markets are over or under valued. The report also factors in market intangibles that make some areas more desirable places to live, and more expensive. "Declines are no longer confined to once-frothy markets," said DeKaser. The survey covered home valuations during the last three months of 2007, but DeKaser pointed out there's reason to believe that valuations are even more favorable for buyers today. Price declines have continued into 2008 and interest rates, although they have inched up lately, have been steady or lower compared to late last year. There have even been wage gains; personal income rose 0.5% in December. Soaring foreclosure rates have added inventory to many housing markets, depressing home prices further. The biggest gains in affordability occurred in California, Michigan and Florida, which are areas that have also been some of the hardest hit by foreclosures. Those states registered 43 of the 50 biggest price declines. Bend, Ore. currently tops the overvaluation list. Home prices there were judged to be about 59% higher than their fair-market value. Miami, despite a median home price decline of 5.7% last year, is the most overvalued big city, by 44%. All the best bargains were found in Louisiana and Texas. Houses in Houma, La. were under valued by 31.2%, according to the report. Dallas was the most undervalued big city, by 30%. Copyrighted, CNNMoney. All Rights Reserved. From CNNMoney.com <a href="http://finance.yahoo.com/real-estate/article/104536/Housing:-Best-Time-to-Buy-in-Four-Years;_ylt=AroqMy_GThppjul2x8ymU4Rfo9IF" rel="nofollow">http://finance.yahoo.com/real-estate/article/104536/Housing:-Best-Time-to-Buy-in-Four-Years;_ylt=AroqMy_GThppjul2x8ymU4Rfo9IF</a> EDITOR on "Top Ways to Add Value to Your Home" http://highcountrydirt.com/dirt.blog/dirt.base/topic.php?id=36#post-36 Thu, 06 Mar 2008 20:41:39 +0000 EDITOR 36@http://highcountrydirt.com/dirt.blog/dirt.base/ Story by George Gilleland, President, High Country Home Builders Association Americans will spend nearly $233 billion on home remodeling this year, according to the National Association of Home Builders’ (NAHB) 2007 industry forecast. That figure is a 1.9 percent increase from the record $228 billion spent in 2006, according to estimates from the U.S. Census Bureau. But all home remodeling projects are not equal. Which projects are the best ones for homeowners looking for a solid return on their investment and higher profits come selling day? Here are some top ways to add value to your home. A Home Office Remodel Home offices are becoming less of a luxury and more of a necessity, with more people telecommuting. The number of Americans who work from home is in the millions, and that number has continued to grow every year. With many companies cutting costs and becoming more aware of their carbon footprints, telecommuting has become a viable solution for many people in the working world. Making sure that your home has a state-of-the-art space for potential teleworkers is a surefire way to increase your home’s value. Renovate or Add a Family Room With open floor plans becoming more in demand, a family room is an excellent way to make existing homes more like new construction. Remember, it’s a good idea to keep in mind what homes in your area are like. People like to purchase homes that blend with other homes around them. Chances are you’ll find many of your neighbors are investing in family rooms as well. Replace the Roof The roof is one of the first impressions people have of a home. Make sure yours passes the test by replacing an old roof. You can also change the character of your home by looking into architecturally styled roofing tiles. Landscape your Yard Along the same lines of thinking as the roof, landscaping can give a great—or not so great—first impression. Backyard landscaping can transform ordinary spaces into incredible entertaining areas by including elegant water features and lush plants. Consider your area’s climate. If you live in an area that receives temperate weather year round, you’ll find that your new landscaped yard adds value to your home and increases your living space. Replace Old Windows Homes lose 30 percent of a their energy through the windows. Replacing old windows with energy-efficient versions is a signal to homebuyers that you really care about the house and that perception reflects on the quality of the house as a whole. Plus, who doesn’t like to save money on energy bills? Remodel Your Basement Look at space you already have. Do you have unused space that serves as a black hole for all things without a home? Try remodeling your basement. Remodeled basements can make excellent game rooms or guest suites, adding value to your home without adding space. Paint, Paint, Paint Enough said. But remember to hire a professional if you need help and keep the colors neutral if you’re looking to sell. Nothing looks worse than a poorly done paint job in bright fuchsia. Remodel Your Kitchen Small changes can result in big value. Upgrading appliances and door handles, and painting tired walls can add new life to your kitchen and add value to your home. The general rule when doing a remodel is not to overdo it—unless it’s a kitchen. Kitchens sell a home, and in this case, size does matter. But a kitchen remodel is a long-term investment; you’ll see payback 10 years down the road. And know your limits when it comes to DIY projects. Sometimes doing it yourself can save money, but always bring in a professional for the big jobs. Remodel or Add a Bathroom A bathroom remodel can often mean simply making the most of your current space by upgrading fixtures, flooring and lighting. Have a little more money in the budget? Adding a bathroom is a great way to add value to your home. Is your only bathroom upstairs and not convenient for dinner guests? Often the area under a set of stairs is the perfect place for a powder room. For more information about how to add value to your home, contact the High Country Home Builders Association at 828-297-6566 or <a href="mailto:susan.hchba@charterinternet.com.">susan.hchba@charterinternet.com.</a> To find out why now is a great time to buy, click to <a href="http://www.nahb.org/timetobuy." rel="nofollow">www.nahb.org/timetobuy.</a> To subscribe to NAHB’s free consumer e-newsletter on all things home, click to <a href="http://www.nahb.org/housekeys." rel="nofollow">www.nahb.org/housekeys.</a> EDITOR on "Hauling/Trucking" http://highcountrydirt.com/dirt.blog/dirt.base/topic.php?id=34#post-34 Thu, 28 Feb 2008 21:04:00 +0000 EDITOR 34@http://highcountrydirt.com/dirt.blog/dirt.base/ Harold Miller Trucking 304 mulberry cove rd Boone NC 28607 cell: 828-773-7496 phone: 828-262-1166 EDITOR on "Bad Neighbors?" http://highcountrydirt.com/dirt.blog/dirt.base/topic.php?id=33#post-33 Mon, 25 Feb 2008 14:46:07 +0000 EDITOR 33@http://highcountrydirt.com/dirt.blog/dirt.base/ Check out <a href="http://www.rottenneighbor.com/" rel="nofollow">http://www.rottenneighbor.com/</a> and see what people are saying about you. EDITOR on "Well & Pump Service" http://highcountrydirt.com/dirt.blog/dirt.base/topic.php?id=32#post-32 Tue, 19 Feb 2008 00:58:22 +0000 EDITOR 32@http://highcountrydirt.com/dirt.blog/dirt.base/ Dewey Wright Well & Pump Company, Inc. 1856 Hwy. 105 Bypass P.O. Box 308 Boone, NC 28607-0308 (828) 264-2651 (877) 250-3727 (828) 264-6125 (fax) Contact: Dewey Wright, Owner; E-mail: <a href="mailto:dwwp@skybest.com">dwwp@skybest.com</a> <a href="mailto:dwwp@skybest.com">dwwp@skybest.com</a> EDITOR on "Tree Service" http://highcountrydirt.com/dirt.blog/dirt.base/topic.php?id=31#post-31 Tue, 19 Feb 2008 00:58:00 +0000 EDITOR 31@http://highcountrydirt.com/dirt.blog/dirt.base/ ArborCare Tree Service, Inc. P.O. Box 369 Boone, NC 28607-0369 (828) 963-0007 (828) 268-2221 (fax) Contact: Chad Michael, Owner; E-mail: <a href="mailto:arborcare33@hotmail.com">arborcare33@hotmail.com</a> EDITOR on "Real Estate Appraisers" http://highcountrydirt.com/dirt.blog/dirt.base/topic.php?id=30#post-30 Tue, 19 Feb 2008 00:57:44 +0000 EDITOR 30@http://highcountrydirt.com/dirt.blog/dirt.base/ Coley Appraisal Company 254 Meadowview Dr. Boone, NC 28607-5216 (828) 265-1115 (828) 265-1522 (fax) Contact: Marcella Coley; E-mail: <a href="mailto:coleyappraisalco@bellsouth.net">coleyappraisalco@bellsouth.net</a> <a href="mailto:coleyappraisalco@bellsouth.net">coleyappraisalco@bellsouth.net</a> EDITOR on "Plumbing" http://highcountrydirt.com/dirt.blog/dirt.base/topic.php?id=29#post-29 Tue, 19 Feb 2008 00:57:28 +0000 EDITOR 29@http://highcountrydirt.com/dirt.blog/dirt.base/ Jeff's Plumbing & Repair, Inc. 3087 Highway 194 North P.O. Box 54-DTS Boone, NC 28607 (828) 264-5406 (828) 264-6134 (fax) Contact: Jeffrey C. Voss, President; E-mail: <a href="mailto:jeffsplumbing@boone.net">jeffsplumbing@boone.net</a> EDITOR on "Landscaping & Lawn Service" http://highcountrydirt.com/dirt.blog/dirt.base/topic.php?id=28#post-28 Tue, 19 Feb 2008 00:57:06 +0000 EDITOR 28@http://highcountrydirt.com/dirt.blog/dirt.base/ Aldridge Farms 9855 NC Hwy 105 So. Unit# 5048 Banner Elk, NC 28604-8957 (828) 265-7881 (828) 265-7653 (fax) Contact: David & Brandy Aldridge, President & Vice President; E-mail: <a href="mailto:daldridgetrees@charter.net">daldridgetrees@charter.net</a> <a href="mailto:daldridgetrees@charter.net">daldridgetrees@charter.net</a> E & E Landscaping & Lawn Service 576 Country Place Dr. Boone, NC 28607-7786 (828) 773-5428 Contact: Michael Eller, Owner; E-mail: <a href="mailto:eandelawns@hotmail.com">eandelawns@hotmail.com</a> <a href="mailto:eandelawns@hotmail.com">eandelawns@hotmail.com</a> Grandfather Mtn. Nursery Garden Center 11466 Hwy. 105 South Banner Elk, NC 28604-8664 (828) 963-5025 (828) 963-7931 (828) 963-7637 (fax) Contact: Theresa & Mustafa Ozdemir, Owners; E-mail: <a href="mailto:gmngcl@charter.net">gmngcl@charter.net</a> <a href="mailto:gmngcl@charter.net">gmngcl@charter.net</a> <a href="http://www.grandfatherlandscaping.com" rel="nofollow">www.grandfatherlandscaping.com</a> EDITOR on "Insulation Contractors" http://highcountrydirt.com/dirt.blog/dirt.base/topic.php?id=27#post-27 Tue, 19 Feb 2008 00:56:48 +0000 EDITOR 27@http://highcountrydirt.com/dirt.blog/dirt.base/ Wellborn Insulation Co. P.O. Box 90 Boone, NC 28607-0090 (828) 264-6545 (828) 268-4522 (828) 263-9351 (fax) Contact: Buck Wellborn; E-mail: <a href="mailto:judyandbuck@bellsouth.net">judyandbuck@bellsouth.net</a> EDITOR on "Home Inspections" http://highcountrydirt.com/dirt.blog/dirt.base/topic.php?id=26#post-26 Tue, 19 Feb 2008 00:56:22 +0000 EDITOR 26@http://highcountrydirt.com/dirt.blog/dirt.base/ Western NC Home Inspection, Builders Inc. P.O. Box 89 Vilas, NC 28692-0089 (828) 297-5371 (828) 963-0764 (828) 297-3518 (fax) Contact: Darryl Eggers, Owner; E-mail: <a href="mailto:darryl@skybest.com">darryl@skybest.com</a> EDITOR on "Building Contractors" http://highcountrydirt.com/dirt.blog/dirt.base/topic.php?id=25#post-25 Tue, 19 Feb 2008 00:55:04 +0000 EDITOR 25@http://highcountrydirt.com/dirt.blog/dirt.base/ Vincent Properties, Inc. P.O. Box 1238 Blowing Rock, NC 28605-1238 (828) 295-0700 (888) 775-5799 (828) 295-0047 (fax) Contact: Jay Vincent; E-mail: <a href="mailto:sales@vincentproperties.com">sales@vincentproperties.com</a> <a href="mailto:sales@vincentproperties.com">sales@vincentproperties.com</a> <a href="http://www.vincentproperties.com" rel="nofollow">www.vincentproperties.com</a> EDITOR on "Garage Door Companies" http://highcountrydirt.com/dirt.blog/dirt.base/topic.php?id=24#post-24 Tue, 19 Feb 2008 00:54:44 +0000 EDITOR 24@http://highcountrydirt.com/dirt.blog/dirt.base/ Automatic Door Co., Inc. 891 Fletcher Branch Rd. Vilas, NC 28692-9101 (828) 262-5139 (828) 297-2165 (fax) Contact: Richard Smith Ballard Doors, Inc./Garage Door Design Center 1542 Hwy. 421 So. Ste. F Gateway Center Boone, NC 28607- (828) 264-5993 (866) 459-1923 (828) 264-5990 (fax) Contact: Vickie Ballard; E-mail: <a href="mailto:ballarddesign@bellsouth.net">ballarddesign@bellsouth.net</a> <a href="mailto:ballarddesign@bellsouth.net">ballarddesign@bellsouth.net</a> <a href="http://www.ballardcustomdoors.com" rel="nofollow">www.ballardcustomdoors.com</a> EDITOR on "Excavation & Grading" http://highcountrydirt.com/dirt.blog/dirt.base/topic.php?id=23#post-23 Tue, 19 Feb 2008 00:54:25 +0000 EDITOR 23@http://highcountrydirt.com/dirt.blog/dirt.base/ Clear Creek Development, Inc. P.O. Box 1817 Boone, NC 28607-1817 (828) 297-7465 (828) 297-7405 (fax) Contact: Mark Feichter, President; E-mail: <a href="mailto:clearcreek@charter.net">clearcreek@charter.net</a> <a href="mailto:clearcreek@charter.net">clearcreek@charter.net</a> Waters Brothers Construction Company 577-1 George Wilson Rd. Boone, NC 28607-8612 (828) 264-7420 (828) 264-2739 (fax) Contact: Clifford Waters, Owners; E-mail: <a href="mailto:watersinc@bellsouth.net">watersinc@bellsouth.net</a> <a href="mailto:watersinc@bellsouth.net">watersinc@bellsouth.net</a> EDITOR on "Engineering/Surveying" http://highcountrydirt.com/dirt.blog/dirt.base/topic.php?id=22#post-22 Tue, 19 Feb 2008 00:54:09 +0000 EDITOR 22@http://highcountrydirt.com/dirt.blog/dirt.base/ Municipal Engineering Services Co., PA 671 West King St. Ste. A P.O. Box 349 Boone, NC 28607-0349 (828) 262-1767 (828) 264-0713 (828) 265-2601 (fax) Contact: Morgan Redmond, Office Manager; E-mail: <a href="mailto:mesco@boone.net">mesco@boone.net</a> <a href="mailto:mesco@boone.net">mesco@boone.net</a> <a href="http://www.mesco.com" rel="nofollow">www.mesco.com</a> EDITOR on "Electrical Contractors" http://highcountrydirt.com/dirt.blog/dirt.base/topic.php?id=21#post-21 Tue, 19 Feb 2008 00:53:52 +0000 EDITOR 21@http://highcountrydirt.com/dirt.blog/dirt.base/ John Bodenhammer Electric 2332 Old Highway 421 S Boone, NC 28607 Map (828) 264-2664 Steve Matthews Electric (828) 263-9257 Jared Munday Electric, Inc. 487-H Stanley Miller Rd. Deep Gap, NC 28618- (828) 265-1575 Contact: Jared Munday, Owner; E-mail: <a href="mailto:jaredmundayelectric@gmail.com">jaredmundayelectric@gmail.com</a> <a href="mailto:jaredmundayelectric@gmail.com">jaredmundayelectric@gmail.com</a> Jerry Storie Electric Company, Inc. 2419 Friendship Church Rd. Boone, NC 28607-8482 (828) 264-1960 (828) 264-1960 (fax) Contact: Jerry Storie, President EDITOR on "Crushed Stone" http://highcountrydirt.com/dirt.blog/dirt.base/topic.php?id=20#post-20 Tue, 19 Feb 2008 00:53:32 +0000 EDITOR 20@http://highcountrydirt.com/dirt.blog/dirt.base/ Radford Quarries of Boone, Inc. P.O. Box 2071 Boone, NC 28607-2071 (828) 264-9828 (828) 264-9829 (fax) Contact: D.J. Cecile, Vice President/CFO; E-mail: <a href="mailto:radfordquarries@gmail.com">radfordquarries@gmail.com</a> <a href="mailto:radfordquarries@gmail.com">radfordquarries@gmail.com</a> Vulcan Materials Company 3869 Hwy. 105 So. P.O. Box 2995 Boone, NC 28607-2995 (336) 838-8072 (336) 838-0513 (fax) Contact: Darrell Groves, District Sales Representative; E-mail: <a href="mailto:grovesd@vmcmail.com">grovesd@vmcmail.com</a> <a href="mailto:grovesd@vmcmail.com">grovesd@vmcmail.com</a> <a href="http://www.vulcanmaterials.com" rel="nofollow">www.vulcanmaterials.com</a> EDITOR on "Equipment Rental" http://highcountrydirt.com/dirt.blog/dirt.base/topic.php?id=19#post-19 Tue, 19 Feb 2008 00:53:08 +0000 EDITOR 19@http://highcountrydirt.com/dirt.blog/dirt.base/ Boone Rent-All 1818 Hwy 105 -421 Bypass P.O. Box 1816 Boone, NC 28607-1816 (828) 264-5000 (828) 266-5002 (828) 264-6630 (fax) Contact: John Campbell, General Manager; E-mail: <a href="mailto:john.campbell@boonerentalsinc.com">john.campbell@boonerentalsinc.com</a> <a href="mailto:john.campbell@boonerentalsinc.com">john.campbell@boonerentalsinc.com</a> boonerent-all.com Carolina CAT 1586 Hwy. 421 So. Ste. E Gateway Center Boone, NC 28607-5303 (828) 268-9992 (828) 268-9980 (fax) Contact: Josh Goble; E-mail: <a href="mailto:sshepherd@carolinacat.com">sshepherd@carolinacat.com</a> <a href="mailto:sshepherd@carolinacat.com">sshepherd@carolinacat.com</a> <a href="http://www.carolinacat.com" rel="nofollow">www.carolinacat.com</a> Farmer's Rental & Power 678 Hwy 105 Ext. Boone, NC 28607-4902 (828) 264-6044 (828) 264-6219 (fax) Contact: Steve Greene, Owner; E-mail: <a href="mailto:rent@farmersrentals.com">rent@farmersrentals.com</a> <a href="mailto:rent@farmersrentals.com">rent@farmersrentals.com</a> <a href="http://www.farmersrentals.com" rel="nofollow">www.farmersrentals.com</a> EDITOR on "Concrete Ready/Mix" http://highcountrydirt.com/dirt.blog/dirt.base/topic.php?id=18#post-18 Tue, 19 Feb 2008 00:52:49 +0000 EDITOR 18@http://highcountrydirt.com/dirt.blog/dirt.base/ Boone Ready Mix, Inc. 110 Seven Oaks Boone, NC 28607-9759 (828) 265-4884 (828) 264-2192 (828) 265-1935 (fax) Contact: Mike Perry, President; E-mail: <a href="mailto:readymib@bellsouth.net">readymib@bellsouth.net</a> <a href="mailto:readymib@bellsouth.net">readymib@bellsouth.net</a> EDITOR on "Cabinetry - Kitchen & Bath" http://highcountrydirt.com/dirt.blog/dirt.base/topic.php?id=17#post-17 Tue, 19 Feb 2008 00:52:26 +0000 EDITOR 17@http://highcountrydirt.com/dirt.blog/dirt.base/ Distinctive Cabinetry & Design 7883 Hwy. 105, So. Shoppes at Twin Rivers, Suite A Boone, NC 28607-7343 (828) 963-9633 (704) 973-0153 (fax) Contact: Dave Parks & Pat Parks <a href="http://www.dcd105.com" rel="nofollow">www.dcd105.com</a> Miters Touch, Inc. 6858 Hwy. 105 So. Boone, NC 28607-7328 (828) 963-4445 (828) 963-4488 (fax) Contact: Denise Grohs, President; E-mail: <a href="mailto:denise@miterstouchinc.com">denise@miterstouchinc.com</a> <a href="mailto:denise@miterstouchinc.com">denise@miterstouchinc.com</a> <a href="http://www.miterstouchinc.com" rel="nofollow">www.miterstouchinc.com</a> Precision Cabinets, Inc. 1324 Old 421 So. Boone, NC 28607-6288 (828) 262-5080 (828) 262-9656 (fax) Contact: Ken Murray, President; E-mail: <a href="mailto:precisioncabinet@bellsouth.net">precisioncabinet@bellsouth.net</a> <a href="mailto:precisioncabinet@bellsouth.net">precisioncabinet@bellsouth.net</a> <a href="http://www.precisioncabinetinc.com" rel="nofollow">www.precisioncabinetinc.com</a> EDITOR on "Valle Crucis" http://highcountrydirt.com/dirt.blog/dirt.base/topic.php?id=15#post-15 Tue, 19 Feb 2008 00:43:20 +0000 EDITOR 15@http://highcountrydirt.com/dirt.blog/dirt.base/ Nestled high in the Appalachian Mountains of North Carolina is a peaceful rural community that has stayed untouched over the years. When Levi Ives, the second Episcopal bishop of North Carolina, visited the area in the 1840s he looked into the valley from a hillside, noticed three streams forming the shape of a St. Andrew’s cross and deemed the location Valle Crucis, Latin for “Vale of the Cross.” Pronounced valley crew’sis, the bucolic area was first formally settled over 200 years ago and is a place that historians and visitors alike have called "uncommon." The community has grown in recent years, as the valley’s scenic beauty and majestic quality continuously mesmerizes residents and draws visitors from throughout the world. Located in Watauga County, near Boone and only a few hours from the hustle and bustle of bigger cities, day and weekend getaways are possible, but most eventually return for a much longer stay. Valle Crucis is North Carolina’s first rural historic district and the entire community is officially listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Nationally recognized historic buildings are abound in Valle Crucis, with many like The Baird House (1790), The Mast Farm Inn (1812), the Old Episcopal Mission (1842) and the Mast General Store (1883), restored to their initial splendor and still serving the area today. The rustic countryside provides ample opportunities for recreational activities. Both residents and visitors alike can be found enjoying the amenities at the riverfront community park, with multiple children’s playgrounds, athletic fields, picnic areas, and a walking/running trail around its border. Other outdoor enthusiasts can be found hiking from the sacred ground of the old Episcopal Mission, now the Valle Crucis Conference Center, up trails to Crab Orchard Falls or along other seemingly limitless trails along the Blue Ridge Parkway. Riding horses through old farm fields in the valley and fishing for trout from the banks of the streams and Watauga River also provide an enjoyable glimpse at the days of old. Regardless of the choice of activity, unquestionably the best way to recap the day’s events is from a rocking chair placed outside in the crisp mountain air, with views of spectacular foliage and the quaint valley. SCHOOLS Valle Crucis Elementary School 2998 Broadstone Rd Sugar Grove, NC 28679 828-963- 4712 Watauga High School 400 High School Drive Boone, NC 28607 828-264-2407 BANKS Wachovia Mortgage 958 Blowing Rock Rd Boone, NC 28607 828-262-4690 American Home Mortgage 395 Shawneehaw Ave Banner Elk, NC 28604 828-898-6898 Amerisouth Mortgage Company 643 Greenway Rd Boone, NC 28607 828-266-1575 Bank of America 1800 Blowing Rock Rd. Boone, NC 28607 828-264-4711 UTILITIES Blue Ridge Electric 2491 US Hwy 421 South Boone, NC 28607 828-264-8894 Charter Communications 866-472- 2200 Skyline/SkyBest 157 Seven Devils Rd Seven Devils, NC 28604 828-898-1350 EDITOR on "Boone Information" http://highcountrydirt.com/dirt.blog/dirt.base/topic.php?id=14#post-14 Tue, 19 Feb 2008 00:41:49 +0000 EDITOR 14@http://highcountrydirt.com/dirt.blog/dirt.base/ The Town of Boone is a university town in Watauga County, atop the Appalachian Mountains of North Carolina and serves as the county seat and market town. Boone acquires its name from the famous pioneer and explorer Daniel Boone, who on several occasions camped at a site generally agreed to be within the present city limits. The Town of Boone was incorporated in 1872 and its current population is 14,132. Boone has the highest elevation (3,300 feet) of any town of its size (over 10,000 population) east of the Mississippi River. During summer, high temperatures in Boone are typically 76°F or below, noticeably cooler than the lowland areas to the east and south. Summers are also considerably cooler than most parts of the Carolinas. Winters are colder with sleet and snowfall common. Located off the beautiful Blue Ridge Parkway, Boone offers its residents and visitors a four-season playground for sports and outdoor activities. Boone is recognized by travel journalists as an "ultimate outdoor adventure destination" in the Southeast. It is also home to Appalachian State University, the Appalachian Regional Medical Center, scores of businesses, large and small as well as tourist attractions and a progressive school system consistently ranked for its excellence. SCHOOLS Green Valley Elementary School 189 Big Hill Rd Boone, NC 28607 Watauga County District Hardin Park Elementary School 361 Jefferson Rd Boone, NC 28607 Watauga County District Parkway Elementary School 160 Parkway School Dr Boone, NC 28607 Watauga County District Watauga High School 400 High School Dr Boone, NC 28607 Watauga County District BANKS Amerisouth Mortgage Company 643 Greenway Rd Boone, NC 28607 828-266-1575 Bank of America 1800 Blowing Rock Rd Boone, NC 28607 828-264-4711 AF Bank 1675 Blowing Rock Rd Boone, NC 28607 828-265-2580 Conley Mortgage Associates Inc 897 Blowing Rock Rd Boone, NC 28607 828-262-1200 Granite Mortgage Inc 230 Wilson Dr Boone, NC 28607 828-263-5387 High Country Bank 149 Jefferson Rd Boone, NC 28607 828-264-9446 UTILITIES Blue Ridge Electric 2491 Hwy 421 S Boone, NC 28607 828-264-8894 New River Light & Power Company 220 Winklers Creek Boone, NC 28607 828-264-8621 Carolina Water Service 828-898-5011 SkyBest Communications 866-759-7283 Charter Communications 755 George Wilson Rd Boone, NC 28607 866-472-2200 EDITOR on "Blowing Rock Information" http://highcountrydirt.com/dirt.blog/dirt.base/topic.php?id=13#post-13 Tue, 19 Feb 2008 00:39:08 +0000 EDITOR 13@http://highcountrydirt.com/dirt.blog/dirt.base/ Nestled in the northwestern mountains of North Carolina, Blowing Rock offers residents a quiet escape from everyday life. Conveniently located to the Blue Ride Parkway, you will have the opportunity to frequently hike the countless trails and enjoy breathtaking views. In addition to the natural beauty of the area, enjoy living close to distinctive shops and some of North Carolina's most notable attractions. Whether looking for a private hideaway, or a cozy place inside the Village, the charming atmosphere of this quaint, mountain town will leave you feeling uplifted. We hope that you will join us in Blowing Rock, and experience everything that makes our Village unique. SCHOOLS Blowing Rock Elementary School 165 Morris St Blowing Rock, NC 28605 828-295-3204 Watauga High School 400 High School Drive Boone, NC 28607 828-264-2407 BANKS First Citizen’s Bank 1021 Main St Blowing Rock NC 28605 828-295-3162 Wachovia Bank 983 Main St Blowing Rock NC 28605 828-295-7621 Myer’s Park Mortgage 1098 Main St Blowing Rock NC 28605 828-295-9008 United Community Bank 8433 Valley Blvd Blowing Rock, NC 28605 828-295-8072 UTILITIES Blue Ridge Electic 2491 US Hwy 421 South Boone, NC 28607 828-264-8894 Charter Communications 866-472- 2200 Skyline/SkyBest 157 Seven Devils Rd Seven Devils, NC 28604 828-898-1350 Town of Blowing Rock Water 7190 Valley Blvd Blowing Rock, NC 28605 828-295-5225 EDITOR on "Banner Elk Information" http://highcountrydirt.com/dirt.blog/dirt.base/topic.php?id=12#post-12 Tue, 19 Feb 2008 00:37:28 +0000 EDITOR 12@http://highcountrydirt.com/dirt.blog/dirt.base/ Located in the Mountains of Western North Carolina, Banner Elk is home to a bustling community thriving in High Country tourism activities such as skiing, golf, hiking, horseback riding, rafting, and fishing. With a number of fine accommodations to choose from as well as restaurants and unique shops, Banner Elk offers much for the seasonal vacationer and part-year resident. Year-round residents benefit from the growing popularity of the Western North Carolina Mountains and comprise the area's growing number of professionals, service personnel, and skilled trade people. Come visit Banner Elk... and who knows, you just might stay! SCHOOLS Banner Elk Elementary School 185 Azalea Circle Banner Elk, NC 28604 828-898-5575 Avery County High School 401 High School Road Newland, NC 28657 828-733-0151 BANKS Bank of America 330 Main St. E Banner Elk, NC 28604 828-898-5231 First Charter National Bank 1667 Tynecastle Hwy Banner Elk, NC 28604 828-898-6351 First Citizens Bank 4000 NC Hwy 105 S Sugar Mountain, NC 28604 828-898-5711 Highlands Union Bank 115 Main St. E Banner Elk, NC 28604 828-898-5100 Mountain Community Bank 3828 NC Highway 105 S Sugar Mountain, NC 28604 828-898-1888 UTILITIES Mountain Electric Cooperative Inc 1373 Elk Park Hwy Newland, NC 28657 828-733-0150 Carolina Water Services Banner Elk, NC 28604 828-898-5011 Charter Communications 866-472- 2200 Skyline/SkyBest 157 Seven Devils Rd Seven Devils, NC 28604 828-898-1350 EDITOR on "Welcome" http://highcountrydirt.com/dirt.blog/dirt.base/topic.php?id=11#post-11 Mon, 18 Feb 2008 23:17:16 +0000 EDITOR 11@http://highcountrydirt.com/dirt.blog/dirt.base/ Welcome to the High Country Dirt Knowledge Base. Please have a look around and let your voice be heard. EDITOR on "Getting Started" http://highcountrydirt.com/dirt.blog/dirt.base/topic.php?id=10#post-10 Mon, 18 Feb 2008 20:41:57 +0000 EDITOR 10@http://highcountrydirt.com/dirt.blog/dirt.base/ Financing: Before you start anything you might want to talk to your bank or a mortgage company to make sure your are able to get the money needed to complete the house. • Don’t forget to budget for the driveway, sidewalks, landscaping, fencing, blinds and maybe even some new furniture or appliances. Plans: You could either find a suitable building lot and then a plan to suit the lot, or if money is not a problem and you have your heart set on a specific plan, first get your plans and then a lot to suit the plan. • Before you choose a plan, take into account your lifestyle and your budget. It is very easy to go over budget or choose a plan that looks ideal on paper, but does not suit your family. • There are many design books on the market or you could hire an architect or a home designer to design a house for you. • Make sure you have enough copies of your plan, 10 would be really nice. Your building permit will take 2 or 3 copies and you will probably have to leave a plan at your place of lending. That leaves you with 6 or 7 copies left. Many of the sub contractors need a plan to price out their work, make sure you remember who has a plan and get it back when they are finished with it. • Most subdivisions will require a set of plans. Subdivision: The developers often control many aspects of what goes into their subdivision. You must decide if their building scheme is within your budget and lifestyle. Most subdivisions will have to approve of your building plan before you may apply for a building permit. • A building scheme is when the subdivision owners or the city have placed restrictions on the type, color, roof style, size, basically it could include anything to do with the house or the lot. Some subdivisions have many restrictions and others have none. Lot: Put an offer on the lot, subject to financing and in certain subdivisions subject to the building scheme. Estimates: Get cost estimates from all the sub contractors needed to complete the job. • Make sure that you get several quotes from each sub trade, at least 3 or more, stick to REPUTABLE companies and you will be able to ELIMINATE a lot of problems afterwards. Compare all the quotes to make sure they include the same materials and work, and of course the quality of the material. Cheaper is not always better. Have the material list checked by someone who knows a little about it. Do not be afraid to ask questions. Financing: Arrange suitable financing. Building permit: After your plan has been approved by the developer of the subdivision take your plans and a Plot Plan to the county office for the building permit. • A Plot Plan is a drawing of how and where your house will be placed on the lot. • Depending on the time of year and how busy they are it could take from 2 to 6 weeks before the permit is ready to be picked up. • When you receive your building permit, you will receive a list of conditions that must be met. Example: some beams must be engineered or the soil must be tested. Getting Organized: While you are waiting for the permit you have time to get organized and start arranging for: • If you are your own General Contractor the first contractors to contact are the Surveyors, Framing crew and Excavator. • Contact the electric company to get temporary power and if this takes to long, there is usually a friendly neighbor who will let you use their power for a small fee. • You should contact all the contractors you have selected to confirm their availability, when confirming ask each trade during what stage of construction they need to come in to do their job. Footings & Foundations If you haven’t already done so you must soon choose the type of doors, windows, garage doors, siding or stucco, trim, brick, furnace, fireplace, cabinets, bathtub & shower. Engineering: In certain conditions an engineer may be required, the county office, your General Contractor or yourself may feel there is something about the house or lot which requires a stamp of approval from an engineer. • When building on a slope you may want an engineer to determine what it takes to keep your house in place. For example, foundation walls may require additional steel, or you may have to use a stronger type of concrete. Using an Engineer might seem a bit costly at times, but it will keep everything in the proper conditions and you may just end up with one of the happier houses in the neighborhood. • Any basement that has (backfilled) foundation walls higher then 7′-8′ needs engineering. You may want to dig to the service hook ups at this time. Ask the Plumber and Electrician about this. The plumber will do the Storm, Sanitary Sewer and Water Connections. These will have to be inspected by a County Inspector, and the Water Company will want to see the water connection. The electrician will lay pipes for Cable, Bellsouth Telephone, and any electrical connections. The wires and cables will be pulled through by the respective Utilities at a later time. The connection can be dug at a later time if necessary. EDITOR on "Let the digging begin" http://highcountrydirt.com/dirt.blog/dirt.base/topic.php?id=9#post-9 Mon, 18 Feb 2008 20:41:16 +0000 EDITOR 9@http://highcountrydirt.com/dirt.blog/dirt.base/ Excavating: When the framer or the surveyor has marked where the house will be situated on the lot the excavator comes in and digs the hole for the foundation. • Optional: Surveying • Although it may cost a bit more, in a tight situation you may want a surveyor to mark the corners of the house. Most areas require a survey to be done after the foundation is in. If you get them to come before you start with the footings it will cost only a little more but it could possibly save you a lot of money and frustration. Many a foundation has had to be moved or entirely redone because it was in the wrong spot. Sand & Gravel: Depending on the excavated soil, you will need good sand, pitrun and drain rock. • All slabs should have a minimum of 6″ of gravel fill under it. • In certain conditions you will have to bring in fill. Either to raise the level of dirt, or because of unstable dirt. This layer ( usually pitrun ) will have to be compacted and leveled. Do not be cheap with this; make sure you do a good job. Compacting equipment can be rented from a rental company. Just make sure that you get the proper size equipment for the job. 12. Foundation: Order the materials needed for the foundation from the lumber yard and the Forms from the Concrete company. When the materials arrive the framers can begin with the foundation. • Do not try to save money by ordering all the building materials at this time. You will be the one that will have to move it when it gets in the way. Lumber yards will split the materials up into two or three (or as many as you like) packages. Plumbing, Heating and Electrical: Contact Plumbing, Heating and Electrical contractors so that they can install anything that is needed before the concrete is poured. Footings Inspection: When the framers have finished laying the footing contact the county office and request a Footings Inspection. • Some framers will pour the concrete for the footings first and then the foundation, while others will prefer to pour the concrete for the footings and the foundations at the same time. Concrete: If the footings are poured first the concrete truck will come twice, once to pour the footings and then again after the foundation has been built. Or if the foundation is built at the same time, the concrete can be poured for the footings and the foundation at the same time. • When pouring ( usually done by the framing crew ) make sure that there are enough people to do the job, especially when the temperature is below freezing. • Also, make sure that there is a vibrator on site. • The concrete company will usually arrange for a pump trunk if needed. Strip Foundation: Usually the day after the concrete has been poured the foundation can be stripped. The Concrete company should be called to pick up their forms. • Try to place the stripped materials in a place where they are out of the way and will stay straight and clean. Damp Proofing: Water proofing is required on the part of the foundation where the slab or skim coat is below grade level. • Can be messy. Just lean against a sprayed wall. Drain Tile: Drain Tile will have to be placed around the perimeter of your house whenever there is living space below grade level (ground level). This includes storage or crawl space. • Rules concerning drainage depend on soil conditions, or type of house. In most slab on grade situations (where the concrete floor is above grade level) you may be able to eliminate drain tile. But it never hurts to install it. • This work is usually done by yourself, with good wheel barrows, shovels and lots of friends. • The top of the Drain Tile should be placed even with the footing/foundation joint. • In some municipalities with storm sewers you will not be allowed to hook your down pipes into the perimeter drain. The same goes if you have a drain installed in a well window. You will have to put in a second line and drain it into a gravel pit. • Make sure this job is done properly, it may just prevent you from getting a swimming pool in you basement. Drain Tile Inspection: Inspector from the county office.