Michaud/Rauers | Lifestyle on the Plateau | Dec 2023

Events, market updates, and more from the Michaud/Rauers Group. The Michaud/Rauers Group is the premier real estate team on the Plateau. Our expert brokers offer a wealth of knowledge and experience as well as the very best in client services. Don't leave your real estate goals to chance. Call the Michaud/Rauers Group today and experience the difference for yourself.

Lifestyle ON THE PLATEAU

DECEMBER 2023

THE MICHAUD/RAUERS GROUP 828.526.4101 Meadows MountainRealty.com

Decorating Tips FOR THE HOLIDAYS

We hope this journal finds you well and filled with the spirit of joy and anticipation that December brings. As the year draws to a close, it is with great pleasure that we extend our warmest welcome to this festive, magical month. Christmas lights and decorations turn Highlands into an idyllic fairytale town. The days are at their shortest, and temperatures drop to their lowest points of the year. On the Plateau, the occasional snowfall transforms the landscape into a winter wonderland, blanketing everything in a soft white veil. This seasonal change sets the stage for a variety of celebrations, gatherings with loved ones, and the opportunity to create lasting memories.

Honor The Style Of Your Home: A vintage residence serves as an excellent canvas for traditional decorations. Weaving together fir, cedar, white pine, and boxwood to create a door garland, adorning windows with wreaths to match, and illuminating the holly with white lights all contribute to this timeless decor. Keep Your Decor Asymmetrical: When decorating a tree or mantel with candlesticks and mini trees, use an asymmetrical design. The irregular proportions can help emphasize your decor. A helpful guideline to follow when embracing asymmetry is to decorate with odd numbers. Incorporate White Twinkle Lights All Around Your Home: Twinkle lights have versatile uses beyond simply adorning a tree. These lights can create a charming ambiance around your windows, artwork, door frames, and even when suspended over your bed’s headboard. Incorporate Family Memories: Whether it’s decorating with passed down décor, old childhood toys, or past family traditions this can be a perfect way to build memories and keep the magic alive. Stick To A Color Combination: The colors can be similar to what you have already incorporated into your home, or go bold and use a complementary color combination. It would really pop against your home’s current color scheme. Decorate Your Storage: Even if your hutch maintains a minimalist look throughout the year, there’s no need for it to be austere when the holidays arrive. Enhance its festive spirit by nestling ornaments within baskets and tiered trays, then adding a sprinkle of artificial snow. Hang Garlands In Unconventional Areas Of Your Home: Creating garland from twine or even using candy canes can offer a unique twist. Explore unconventional placements, such as suspending it from a blanket ladder in your living room or artfully incorporating it into your coffee table decor.

December is also a time for reflection and gratitude. As the year concludes, many people take stock of their accomplishments, considering both their successes and challenges. It’s an opportunity to express gratitude for the blessings of the past year and to set intentions for the one ahead. December is also a month of giving, a time when the spirit of generosity shines as brightly as the lights on a Christmas tree. As you navigate the hustle and bustle of December, may you find moments of peace and joy on every corner. May your heart be filled with love, your home with laughter, and your days with meaningful experiences. With warmth and anticipation, THE MICHAUD/RAUERS GROUP

This is the last issue for the year and we will be pausing for the winter. We look forward to seeing you again the spring.

Publisher: Judy Michaud Editor: Cristina Vives Graphic Design: Puckette McDonald

2 The Michaud / Rauers Group

Lifestyle on the Plateau

1 large egg, at room temperature 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract optional: icing Gingerbread Cookies INGREDIENTS

HIGHLANDS BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT:

If you live in Highlands, chances are you’re familiar with Dusty’s. It’s a family-owned grocery and meat market, now in its second generation of ownership, and managed by the dynamic sibling duo, Dusty Rhodes and Kitty Schultz. At Dusty’s, you’ll find much more than just your everyday pantry essentials. They take pride in making delicious homemade baked goods such as tomato pie, Kitty’s renowned chicken salad, scones, Morning Glory bread (like pumpkin bread but lighter), a variety of homemade appetizers, sandwiches, pies, cookies, and more.

1/2 teaspoon ground allspice 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves 10 Tablespoons (2/3 cup) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature 3/4 cup (150g) packed light or dark brown sugar 2/3 cup (160ml) unsulphured or dark molasses

3 and 1/2 cups (440g) all- purpose flour (spooned & leveled) 1 teaspoon baking soda 1/2 teaspoon salt 1 Tablespoon ground ginger (yes, 1 full Tablespoon!) 1 Tablespoon ground cinnamon

Dusty’s Rhodes Superette (828) 526-2762 Location: 493 Dillard Road, Highlands Winter Hours: Wednesday-Friday 9:00am- 5:30pm; Saturday 9:00am- 4:00pm CLOSED: November 26-December 2 and the entire month of January

DUSTY’S RHODES SUPERETTE

Bake cookies for 9-10 minutes. If your cookie cutters are smaller than 4 inches, bake for about 8 minutes. If your cookie cutters are larger than 4 inches, bake for about 11 minutes. Allow cookies to cool for 5 minutes on the cookie sheet. Transfer to cooling rack to cool completely. Once completely cool, decorate as desired. • Ice • 2 ounces Baileys • 1 ounce vodka • 2 ounces heavy cream • 1 tablespoon gingerbread flavored syrup (such as Monin) Fill a cocktail shaker with ice. Measure the Baileys, vodka, heavy cream, and gingerbread syrup directly into the cocktail shaker. Place the lid securely on the shaker and shake vigorously for 30-45 seconds. Strain the gingerbread martini into a chilled martini glass and serve immediately. GINGERBREAD MARTINI Embrace the festive season with a homemade Gingerbread Martini! This holiday cocktail delivers the delightful taste of gingerbread right into your glass!

In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, ginger, cinnamon, allspice, and cloves. Set aside. In a large bowl using a mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, beat the butter for 1 minute on medium speed until smooth and creamy. Add the brown sugar and molasses and beat on medium high speed until combined and creamy. Scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl as needed. Next, beat in egg and vanilla on high speed for 2 minutes. Scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl as needed. Add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, and beat on low speed until combined. The dough will be quite thick and slightly sticky. Divide dough in half and place each onto a large piece of plastic wrap. Wrap each up tightly and pat down to create a disc shape. Chill discs for at least 3 hours and up to 3 days. Chilling is mandatory for this cookie dough. Preheat oven to 350°F Line 2-3 large baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats. Set aside. Remove 1 disc of chilled cookie dough from the refrigerator. Generously flour a work surface, as well as your hands and the rolling pin. Roll out disc until 1/4-inch thick. The dough may crack and be crumbly as you roll. Pick it up and rotate it as you go. The first few rolls are always the hardest since the dough is so stiff, but re-rolling the scraps is much easier. Cut into shapes. Place shapes 1 inch apart on prepared baking sheets. Re-roll dough scraps until all the dough is shaped. Repeat with remaining disc of dough.

On the other side of the store, explore their pick-and-cut meat market, where Dusty prepares fresh filets, thick-cut ribeye steaks, wild caught Atlantic Salmon, 100% all-beef hotdogs, breakfast sausage infused with a secret blend of herbs and spices, and convenient grab-and-go charcuterie.

While you shop or perhaps wait for a freshly baked pie, don’t miss their coffee station, offering vanilla lattes, peppermint mochas, or even iced Chai lattes, thanks to their unique Starbucks kiosk – the only one within a 20-mile radius. In the produce section, discover the freshest seasonal items sourced from local growers. And before you head to the checkout, select a bottle of wine to complement your dinner. Keep Dusty’s in mind for holiday dinner preparations. They’ll have an array of side dishes, breads, and desserts available on a first-come, first-served basis for pickup during Christmas week and the weekend before.

4 The Michaud / Rauers Group

Lifestyle on the Plateau

WHAT’S HAPPENING ON THE PLATEAU

Fireside at the Farm with Mike Kinnebrew Presented by Old Edwards Inn and Spa Venue: Half Mile Farm, 214 Half-Mile Dr, Highlands Date: December 14 Time: 6:00pm Cost: $40 Nabuco at Highlands PAC The timeless grandeur of ancient Babylon is vividly portrayed in a traditional Metropolitan Opera production of epic proportions. Baritone George Gagnidze steps into his first role at the Met as the authoritative ruler Nabucco, while soprano Liudmyla Monastyrska returns to deliver her electrifying performance as his vengeful daughter, Abigaille. Venue: Highlands PAC, 507 Chestnut Street Highlands Date: January 6, 2024 Time: 1:00pm Cost: $26 CASHIERS Movement for Parkinson’s at Cashiers Valley Fusion Stretching, balance, mobility, and strength training. All levels. Students can participate on their feet or in a chair. Both classes taught by a fellow PWP. Venue: Cashiers Valley Fusion Yoga & Wellness, 21A Lance Rd, Cashiers WHAT’S HAPPENING ON THE PLATEAU

Make your plans now!

ONGOING EVENTS Ice Skating in the Park

Venue: Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park, Highlands Dates: Every Thursday-Sunday until March 7, 2024 except for Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day. Call to check holiday hours: (828) 526-3556. Time: Thursdays 3:30-8:00pm; Fridays 3:30-10:00pm; Saturdays 1:00-10:00pm; Sundays 1:00-5:00pm Cost: $5.00. Skate rentals available, youth size 8 to adult size 14. Coffee and hot chocolate also available. Bluegrass Wednesdays at The Ugly Dog Pub Enjoy a delicious dinner as well as the sounds of Nitrograss. Venue: The Ugly Dog Pub, 294 S. 4th Street, Highlands Dates: Every Wednesday night Time: 6:30 - 9:30pm Thursday Night Trivia And it’s Thirsty Thursday with pints for $3.50 and pitchers for $12 all night long! Venue: The High Dive, 476 Carolina Way, Highlands Dates: Every Thursday night Time: The High Dive opens at 4:00pm; trivia begins at 7:30pm Cost: Free Music Bingo with DJ Mox at The Ugly Dog Pub Enjoy a fun evening with cash prizes while testing your music knowledge – every Sunday at The Dog! Venue: The Ugly Dog Pub, 294 S. 4th Street, Highlands Dates: Every Sunday night Time: 6:30-8:30pm Live Music at The Hummingbird Lounge Venue: Old Edwards Inn, 445 Main Street, Highlands Every Friday and Saturday night Time: 5:30 - 10:00pm Cost: Free

HIGHLANDS Home for the Holidays

Embrace the joyous season with Mountain Theatre Company and our traditional holiday extravaganza! Suitable for everyone, this lively musical showcase celebrating the holidays guarantees enchanting attire, dynamic dance routines, and is certain to infuse viewers with timeless holiday merriment! Venue: Highlands PAC, 507 Chestnut Street Highlands Dates: December 8 - December 24 Time: 2:00pm matinee shows and 7:30pm evening shows Cost: $50-$60 Grimaldi, with Yannick Nézet-Séguin on the podium to lead a spellbinding new production by Mary Zimmerman that brings the mysterious, magical realm of the Amazon to the Met stage. Venue: Highlands PAC, 507 Chestnut Street Highlands Date: December 9 Time: 1:00pm Cost: $26 MET: Florencia En El Amazonas The Met premiere stars soprano Ailyn Pérez as Florencia

Dates: Dec 6, 13, 20, 27 Time: 11:00am-Noon Cost: Call for pricing - (828) 743-9000 Christmas with Caymus at The FIX Restaurant

Enjoy Caymus and Wagner Family Wines with an incredible multi course dinner with wine pairings at The FIX! Seats are limited and fill up fast. Please make your reservation online in advance. Guests will be able to purchase any of the Wagner Family Wines at a great price with mix and match case discounts. The wine will be delivered in time for Christmas. Venue: The FIX Restaurant, 3093 US Highway 64 E, Sapphire

Date: December 19 Time: 6:00-9:30pm Cost: $150 with wine pairings; $110 without wine pairings Tickets available now at www.TheFIXSapphire.com.

The Michaud / Rauers Group

Lifestyle on the Plateau

ADOPT A FAMILY PROGRAM FEATURED CHARITY:

Highlands Emergency Council 71 Poplar St, Highlands, NC (828) 526-4357

Christmas isn’t just about receiving; it’s about giving from the heart. At the Highlands Emergency Council, they extend the spirit of Christmas to 60 deserving families in need. With the support of our community, we can make sure that children who might not have had any presents to unwrap on Christmas morning experience the joy of the season. We kindly invite you to visit the Highlands Emergency Council to participate in their Adopt-a-Family program. We’ll provide you with details (while protecting privacy) like age,

gender, shirt size, pant size, coat size, and shoe size for each family member. Armed with this information, we request that you generously provide and label each gift item and then deliver them to the Highlands Emergency Council by December 15.

Your thoughtful contributions will enable them to organize and distribute these gifts, spreading warmth and happiness during the holiday season. You may call the Highlands Emergency Council or stop by

and pick up the paperwork with all the details of each family.

START THE NEW YEAR ON THE CULLASAJA RIVER IN HIGHLANDS 5BR / 6.5BA | 15.5 Acres w/Private Waterfall | Guest Cottage | Less Than 2 Miles from Main St. With its stunning location and luxurious design, this recently remodeled estate on the Cullasaja River is the perfect choice for those seeking a legacy property. Offered at $7,950,000.

THE MICHAUD/RAUERS GROUP 828.526.4101 MEADOWSMOUNTAINREALTY.COM 488 MAIN STREET, HIGHLANDS, NC 28741

THE DEADLINE FOR PARTICIPATION IS FRIDAY, DECEMBER 15.

©2023 BHH Affiliates, LLC. An independently owned and operated franchisee of BHH Affiliates, LLC. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices and the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices symbol are registered service marks of Columbia Insurance Company, a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate. Equal Housing Opportunity.

The Michaud / Rauers Group

Lifestyle on the Plateau

HOUSEHOLD RESOLUTIONS TO CUT COSTS IN 2024

When it comes to selling your home, many homeowners think of spring and summer as the ideal seasons. However, the winter months can offer unique advantages for sellers who are willing to brave the cold. While it may not be the traditional choice, selling your home during the winter can be a strategic move that comes with several benefits. UNLOCKING THE HIDDEN BENEFITS OF Selling Your Home During Winter

As the challenges of econom- ic inflation and rising energy prices persist, it’s crucial to discover ways to save money within the comfort of your own home. Whether your aim is to trim utility costs or explore cost-efficient methods of main - taining your home, consider these household resolutions to adhere to your budget in the new year. 1. Adjust the Thermostat Trim heating and cooling expens- es by reducing the thermostat by one or two degrees in the winter and raising it in the summer.

5. Cold Wash

Tips For Selling Your Home In Winter Maintain Curb Appeal Shovel snow, clear pathways, and add outdoor light- ing to make your property look inviting. Keep the Home Warm Ensure the interior is comfortably heated during showings, and consider setting the thermostat at a slightly higher temperature to create a cozy atmo- sphere. Good Lighting With shorter daylight hours, proper lighting is essen- tial. Ensure all rooms are well-lit, both naturally and with interior lighting. Flexible Showing Times Be flexible with showing times to accommodate buy- ers’ busy schedules and the limited daylight. Consider scheduling open houses on weekends and evenings. Price Competitively Research the local market and price your home competitively. A well-priced home can attract more buyers, even in the winter months. Work with a Real Estate Professional Enlist the help of a real estate agent experienced in selling homes during the winter. They can provide valuable insights and marketing strategies to attract buyers.

Reduced Competition One of the most significant advantages of selling your home in the winter is the reduced competition. Many sellers wait until the spring or summer, which means fewer homes are on the market during the colder months. With less inventory to choose from, your property can stand out more prominently to prospective buyers. Favorable Negotiation Position Buyers who are active during the winter months may be more open to negotiation. With less competition and motivated sellers, you may find it easier to come to mutually Winter buyers are often more serious. People who are willing to house-hunt in the midst of cold weather, holiday celebrations, and busy schedules are typically motivated buyers, making them more inclined to make a pur- chase. Cozy Atmosphere beneficial terms. Serious Buyers Winter provides an opportunity to showcase your home’s cozy and inviting features. A warm and welcoming environment can be very appealing to buyers during the winter months. Staging with soft blankets and lit fireplaces can help potential buyers envision themselves living in the space.

Switch to cold water for laundry cycles. It not only reduces energy costs but also extends the lifes- pan of your clothes. By implementing these reso - lutions, you can significantly reduce household costs while contributing to a more sus - tainable and budget-friendly lifestyle in 2024. Save money and have a happy New Year!

2. Slow Cooker Savings

Prepare bulk meals in a slow cooker to reduce dishwashing energy use and overall food expenses. For further energy sav- ings, use a toaster oven to reheat meals instead of your oven. 3. Off-Peak Usage Utilize appliances like washers and dishwashers during off-peak hours to cut down on utility costs. 4. LED Lightbulbs Swich ro energy-efficient LED bulbs, reducing energy con- sumption and lasting significantly longer. And don’t forget to turn off the lights when leaving the room!

The Michaud / Rauers Group

Lifestyle on the Plateau

A FEW OF OUR CURRENT LISTINGS

Considering a move? Call us today!

1240 Claire Lane, Highlands Highlands Falls Country Club MLS #103257 | $1,500,000 3 Bedrooms | 3 Baths

1840 N. 4th Street, Highlands In-Town MLS #103083 | $7,950,000 5 Bedrooms | 6.5 Baths

298 Carpenter Road, Otto MLS #103291 | $1,800,000 6 Bedrooms | 5 Baths | 2 Half Baths

64 Boathouse Lane, Highlands Lake Osseroga MLS #102713 | $2,495,000 4 Bedrooms | 4 Baths

400 Hudson Road, Highlands Highlands Country Club MLS #102531 | $1,750,000 3 Bedrooms | 3 Baths

34 Moss Overlook, Highlands Bear Mór MLS #99007 | $3,850,000 4 Bedrooms | 4.5 Baths

TBD Whiteside Cove Road, Cashiers Whiteside Cove MLS #102451 | $1,399,000 33.35 Acres

160 Pipers Court, Highlands Highlands Country Club MLS #101619 | $3,495,000 3 Bedrooms | 3.5 Baths

676 Stillmont Circle, Cashiers Stillmont MLS #103104 | $1,999,000 4 Bedrooms | 4.5 Baths

Lot 5 Bearfoot Lane, Highlands Bearfoot at Flat Mountain MLS #103254 | $1,699,000 3 Bedrooms | 3.5 Baths

214 Shelby Circle, Highlands Shelby Place MLS #102862 | $1,025,000 4 Bedrooms | 4 Baths

Riverwalk Drive, Highlands Highlands In-Town MLS #102626 | $2,950,000 15+ Total Acres - Various Lots

The Michaud / Rauers Group

Lifestyle on the Plateau

November Market Update 2023 Highlands NC

MARKET UPDATE

This is a summary of the NC real estate market as of November 13, 2023. Want more info? We will be happy to answer any questions.

THIS IS A SUMMARY OF THE HIGHLANDS NC REAL ESTATE MARKET AS OF OCTOBER 31ST 2023. WANT MORE INFO? REACH OUT TO US AND WE WILL BE HAPPY TO ANSWER ANY QUESTIONS. HIGHLANDS:

165

Avg Sale Price $1,430,741 +16% Compared to 2022

List to Sale Ratio 95.76%

$1,114,000

Cashiers | Glenville | Sapphire November Market Update 2023 Median Sale Price Sold Listings +18% Compared to 2022 -8% Compared to 2022

Judy

Mitzi

-.7% Compared to 2022

THE MICHAUD/RAUERS GROUP

In the month of October, Highlands recorded 28 residential transactions, totaling over $38 million in sales.

Avg List Price Median List Price $1,818,164 $1,462,000

129

120

Avg Days on Mkt

Active Listings

+5% Compared to 2022

Tom

John

Brooks

THIS IS A SUMMARY OF THE CASHIERS, GLENVILLE & SAPPHIRE NC REAL ESTATE MARKET AS OF OCTOBER 31ST, 2023. WANT MORE INFO? REACH OUT TO US AND WE WILL BE HAPPY TO ANSWER ANY QUESTIONS. CASHIERS, GLENVILLE, AND SAPPHIRE VALLEY:

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Meadows Mountain Realty 828.526.4101

The Michaud/Rauers Realty Group of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Meadows Mountain Realty is turning heads. Over the past two years, this talented group of brokers has been ranked the #1 Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Small Team in North Carolina and Real Trends’ #5 Small Team Across All Brands by Volume in North Carolina. Considering the depth and breadth of their experience, it is no wonder Michaud/Rauers has become a leader on the Plateau. With 36 years of experience, Judy Michaud has developed a reputation for extraordinary client communication and support, tech-savvy operations, and a warm, personal touch.

The philosophy of The Michaud/Rauers Realty Group and Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Meadows Mountain Realty filters into the community. Last year, BHHS Meadows Mountain Realty gave more than $100,000 to non-profits and individuals in need. A percentage of every commission is placed into a giving account. “Once there,” Judy says, “It’s God’s money.” The team agrees. It is their great pleasure to give back to the community they so love. Call the Michaud Rauers Realty Group today at (828) 526-4101 to find out what they can do for you.

269

Avg Sale Price $1,246,163 -1% Compared to 2022

List to Sale Ratio 96.16%

Median Sale Price $855,000

Sold Listings

If your property is listed with another Broker, this is not a solicitation.

-14% Compared to 2022

-0.2% Compared to 2022

+1% Compared to 2022

Avg List Price Median List Price $1,870,856 $1,250,000

In October, 45 new residential listings were added, maintaining a constant number of active listings month over month due to an equal number of sales.

131

167

Avg Days on Mkt

Active Listings

+6% Compared to 2022

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Meadows Mountain Realty 828.526.4101

14 The Michaud / Rauers Group

Lifestyle on the Plateau

PRSRT STD US Postage PAID Long Beach, CA PERMIT NO. 2336

PO Box 1000, Highlands, NC 28741 PO Box 1000, Highlands, NC 28741

PEPPERMINT MOCHA’S ON US. Considering taking advantage of record- breaking home prices but have no idea where you’d go? You’re not alone! Let’s get together for a cup of coffee to chat about all things real estate, the local market, and your vision for a perfect end result. We’ve helped countless clients not only capitalize on these historic market conditions, but also turn their dreams into reality. Call us today at (828) 526-4101 to schedule your coffee consult. PEPPERMINT MOCHA’S ON US. Considering taking advantage of record- breaking home prices but have no idea where you’d go? You’re not alone! Let’s get together for a cup of coffee to chat about all things real estate, the local market, and your vision for a perfect end result. We’ve helped countless clients not only capitalize on these historic market conditions, but also turn their dreams into reality.

THE MICHAUD/RAUERS GROUP JUDY MICHAUD: 828.371.0730 | MITZI RAUERS: 404.218.9123 TOM GOLDACKER: 828.200.9045 | JOHN MUIR: 404.245.7027 BROOKS KITTRELL: 828.230.4453

Call us today at (828) 526-4101 to schedule your coffee consult.

488 Main St, Highlands, NC 28741 | 828.526.4101 | MeadowsMountainRealty.com

THE MICHAUD/RAUERS GROUP JUDY MICHAUD: 828.371.0730 | MITZI RAUERS: 404.218.9123 TOM GOLDACKER: 828.200.9045 | JOHN MUIR: 404.245.7027 BROOKS KITTRELL: 828.230.4453

488 Main St, Highlands, NC 28741 | 828.526.4101 | MeadowsMountainRealty.com

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