Raising Money During the Great Depresssion to Fund the Great Smoky Mountain National Park

It wasnt easy by any stretch of the imagination, but somehow it got done.

To purchase 6,600 tracts of land, the Park Commissions raised the funds that would be the new National Park. This also happened to be the commission that included "Great" to the name Smoky Mountains. With donations from everyone, from school children collecting pennies to large benefactors chipping in with large donations in the thousands, the amount stood at $2.5 million in pledges. Tennessee and North Carolina came up with a matching $2.5 million.

As America was now immersed in the Great Depression pledges were becoming scarce. Congress was asked by the Park Commission for additional funds, but the money to complete the Park came from the Rockefeller family, who donated $5 million. Another $1.55 million was given by the U.S. government to complete the land purchase. On June 15, 1934 the Great Smoky Mountains National Park was established by Congress, which turned stewardship over to the National Park Service. The acquisition of land continued and President Roosevelt officially dedicated the park in 1940.

During difficult times it was a struggle but they got the job done for all to enjoy. And today over 9 million people visit the park yearly. Within a short driving distance and with spectacular views of the Smokies is a gated community called The Ridges at Tellico Lake. Select a gorgeous home site to build on or inspect one of our luxury fractional homes starting at $149,000 and start living the glorious mountain life. Please visit www.theridgesattellicolake.com or call 1-877-Tenn-A-See (836-6273) for more information and about our summer discounts.

9 million people visit the Great Smoky Mountains National Park every year.

With 9 million visitors per year visiting the Great Smoky Mountains National Park every year, this makes the park, the most visited in the U.S.  Dedicated by Franklin Delano Roosevelt on September 2, 1940, the park has an interesting beginning. With local support, community leaders and politicians in both Tennessee and North Carolina pushing for the park, they finally made it happen after many years of planning and raising money.

It all started with Mrs. Willis P. Davis, a Knoxville resident who thought the Smoky Mountains should acquire park status, as it was equal to or surpassed the beauty of other national parks at the time. Before park status was given, construction of an improved road between Asheville and Knoxville needed to be built. With the help of citizens like Colonel David Chapman, the Smokies overcame all odds winning out from over 60 other proposed sites, and in 1926 Congress authorized a Great Smoky Mountains National Park. As it turned out that was the easy part. Raising money turned out to be more difficult as the depression hit.

Nestled within the majestic Great Smoky Mountains are many beautiful communities. The Ridges at Tellico Lake is a gated community offering fractional home ownership of two exquisite mountain homes. They are priced from $149,000 per share and are beautifully furnished, featuring gorgeous panoramic mountain and lake views. Home sites are also available in single and discounted packages. For more information please visit www.theridgesattellicolake.com or call 1-877-Tenn-A-See (836-6273)

Is the Recession Really Over?

How many times have we seen a headline or heard on the news that the recession is over, or how long its going to last. The answer probably is... who knows? The same reporters, talking heads, and experts all have their opinion, but lets remember none of them saw the deep recession coming, so what do they really know, and how credible is their voice. 

One day the numbers reflect the end to the recession is near, then even the same day we get a report that is pretty negative. Its a roller coaster of opinions and figures that can change hourly, as evidenced some days by the stock market. How uncertain is the market these days. 

Just yesterday an AP story headline ran, "RECESSION MAY BE NEAR BOTTOM, NEW DATA SUGGEST". Sounds promising, so I eagerly anticipated reading a positive article. After all I, like most of us, am quite exasperated reading and listening to some of the voices of doom. The article was positive, although a little cautious. No one is really brave enough yet to go out on a limb and proclaim the recession is over. The positive news is that orders to American factories surged last month for everything from computers to aircraft and that a gauge of  business investment rose by the most in nearly five years. That's very good. Also orders for non-defense capital goods jumped 4.8 percent, the largest increase since September 2004. This is very good as well. Like all good news these days, it can be followed by some not so good news the following day or two. I am on the lookout.

If someone is looking to invest, the stock market is definitely still a bit shaky, so investors are starting to look at real estate again. Dont let the negative publicity dissuade you, foreclosures and short sales are the reason there are some amazing deals out there. Check out the savings at The Ridges at Tellico Lake, the gated community located at the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains. They are offering up to 40% off on home site packages. This is a huge savings on large estate size home sites, with spectacular mountain and lake vistas.

For more information about these packages and fractional ownership opportunities please visit www.theridgesattellicolake.com or call 1-877-Tenn-A-See (836-6273)

Cherokee National Forest - Eastern Tennessee

With its cascading waterfalls, winding paths and richness of plant and wildlife the Cherokee National Forest has much to offer. Located in Eastern Tennessee, with the Great Smoky Mountain National Park as its neighbor Cherokee consists of 640,000 acres, the largest tract of public land in Tennessee. Named for the Cherokee Indians who made their ancestral homeland in this area the Cherokee National Forest is now home to over one million visitors each year. Originally created nearly 100 years ago to protect water quality and to provide a continuous supply of timber.

Today the Forest is rich with plant and animal life, with over 20,000 species. Visitors enjoy not only the natural beauty of this pristine forest but also the world class recreational and outdoor activities, fishing the Tellico, biking, kayaking the Ocoee and hiking the Appalachian Trail.

Easy access to the Cherokee National Forest is one reason people are either buying second or vacation homes, or retirement homes nearby. Eastern Tennessee has become a second home destination for people wanting to escape to the beauty of the mountains and solitude it brings.

The Ridges at Tellico Lake, a gated community with large estate size home sites is located a short drive from the Cherokee National Forest. The developers selected a location that provides a mountain living lifestyle second to none. Sweeping mountain vistas, world class outdoor activities and close proximity to the lakes and mountains as well as the nearby city of Knoxville has to offer.

For more information about lot sales, home sales and fractional ownership sales from $149,000 please visit www.theridgesattellicolake.com or call 1-877-Tenn-A-See (836-6273).

What Do Buyers Look For in a Second or Vacation Home

The prospective second home or vacation home buyer is looking for information other than cost and amenities when selecting their destination. There are many other factors involved in the purchase. If they view their vacation home as a possible retirement location there are very important statistics and information they need to know. They are interested in the area's growth and future home appreciation history. Also, important is the area's environmental information. Is the surrounding area safe from pollutants, etc.? Other key elements they need to know, before they can make a decision is the proximity of medical care, shopping entertainment, restaurants, museums, education opportunities, attractions, transportation including airport access. Close proximity to the children and grandchildren is a key factor, as well.

Every developer needs to consider these factors when planning the location of their communities. The developers of The Ridges at Tellico Lake, took their very unique location into consideration when they planned this gated community. Located at the foothills of the Smoky Mountains on Tellico Lake the property is just a short drive to Gatlinburg and the gateway to the Great Smoky Mountain National Park and a short drive to Knoxville, where the arts, great restaurants, theater and movies are easily accessible, as is McGhee Tyson Airport. Even closer are fine medical facilities, local attractions and exceptional recreational activities, fishing, boating, hiking, golf and much more.

For more information about purchasing home sites, homes and fractional ownerships, starting at $149,000 please visit www.theridgesattellicolake.com or call 1-877-Tenn-A-See (8366273)

Who is Buying Second Homes Today

The second home market, after taking a hit over the last couple of years is making a comeback. There are some wonderful deals out there and the savvy buyers are starting to make their move.

The profile of the second home or vacation home buyer that intends on using their home for family vacations is 46 years old. The average second home buyer, purchasing for investment purposes is just a little older, 47 years old. This age is the peak earning years, and they are thinking of retirement in 10-12 years. 30% of the vacation home buyers paid cash in 2008, while 40% of the investment home buyers paid cash. 

1.1 million wealthy Americans will be in the market for a second home this year. While the economy is still soft, the fractional second home market should be a huge incentive for these wealthy Americans. They can still purchase the quality and luxury they are accustom to and save hundreds of thousands of dollars. It may be smart in today's market for them to purchase two fractional vacation homes in two different geographical areas to maximize their value and enjoy both a beach and mountain getaway each year. Only 6 out of 10 are even familiar with fractional ownership.

There are many websites that focus on fractional ownership and its benefits. One gated community in the foothills of the Smoky Mountains, The Ridges at Tellico Lake is offering two spectacular homes at huge fractional savings. The savings with fractional ownership over sole ownership for a 4,000 square foot home is over $850,000. For more information please visit www.theridgesattellicolake.com or call 1-877-Tenn-A-See (836-6273).

Fractional Ownership as Smart, Green Ownerhsip

There is much more to fractional ownership than just saving a fortune, although you will save a hundreds of thousands of dollars. Fractional ownership of a luxury second or vacation home is both a smart and "green" thing to do. The average usage of a vacation property is just 3 weeks.

That leaves the property empty for 49 weeks every year. With sole ownership you pay 100% of the cost of purchase and 100% of the maintenance and upkeep cost, and use the property only 6% of the time. This is year after year of ownership. This is why fractional ownership is such a smart idea, and how is it green? Vacation homes have always been regarded as less green than primary residences because even when the owners are not at their second home site, these homes are burning energy. So the same family is burning energy in two homes at the same time.

So why would you want to waste money and energy when with a fractional ownership you can share the costs and increase efficiency. With a luxury home like the gorgeous 4,000 square foot fractional ownership home found at The Ridges at Tellico Lake, you literally save nearly a million dollars on the purchase price and will save tens of thousands over the years on maintenance and upkeep. You can buy a vacation home for 1/6th of the price and still enjoy absolute luxury and world class amenities.

For more information about the fractional homes for sale at huge savings and how you can own a beautiful home in the foothills of the Smoky Mountains for far less than every imagined please visit www.theridgesattellicolake.com or call 1-877-Tenn-A-See (836-6273)

How Popular is Fractional Ownership Getting?

The Ritz-Carlton just announced another fractional ownership resort, the first of its kind at Kapalua Bay on Maui in Hawaii. Sixty two condos have been designated for fractional ownership on this beautiful 24 acre resort. This brings the total number of Ritz-Carlton fractional destination resorts up to nine. Along with the Hyatt, Marriott and many other upscale resort destinations the future of fractional ownership seems very bright.

Luxury fractional ownership destination clubs and single family homes are popping up all over the world, from Paris to Hong Kong, from Australia to Dubai, from the Caribbean to Thailand, from Aspen to New York City. There is a fractional ownership opportunity anywhere vacationers wish to go.  

A new and exciting fractional market has opened up with great enthusiasm and response. Many people enjoy the condo lifestyle, the carefree aspect of owning and vacationing in a no maintenance condominium. How about receiving the same quality of luxury and carefree living, no maintenance ownership offers,  but also add the privacy and  space of a luxury free standing home. Within the fractional market that is the best of all worlds.

The Ridges at Tellico Lake is offering that unique opportunity. Two luxury log and timber mountain homes in a gated community are being offered as fractional ownership. Award winning floor plans and up to 4,000 square feet of mountain living  with spectacular mountain and lake views, owners will enjoy the privacy and serenity of owning at The Ridges at Tellico Lake.  Own a fantastic Smoky Mountain home for a fraction of the cost.

For more information please visit www.theridgesattellicolake.com or call 1-877-Tenn-A-See (836-6273)

Is it Time to Jump Back into Investing in Land?

The stock market as volatile as ever. Even though it has shown signs of recovery over the past three months, there still remains much pessimism and doubt whether it can sustain its rapid rise.

Investor confidence in the market isnt exactly at its highest point. Many investors are still very nervous about the shape of the overall economy and wonder if the stock market is the best place to invest.

For years land was a safe, and good solid investment. Land prices increased at a very sold rate for many years. With the slowdown in the economy and real estate market many investors disappeared from land investing. Although holding land proved to be a much better position than holding homes, there was a big drop in sales. Nothing can really happen to land, compared to owning investment homes, which was a much larger original investment. Prices have come down and we are now seeing investors jumping back in the real estate market. They are looking for bargains and they are getting bargains. Homes have been reduced nearly 50% in many areas, and although land pricing has not seen the same drop in pricing there are some excellent deals out there for the investor.

One such land opportunity is very interesting - The Ridges at Tellico Lake, a gated community in Tennessee is offering four different home site packages, that offer a discount on home site purchases of up to 40%. These are premium home sites, large estate size, up to 3 acres in size, with spectacular views of the Great Smoky Mountains and Tellico Lake. Just 30 minutes from Knoxville and airports this is an ideal second home vacation opportunity. Infrastructure is in and these lots are ready to go.  The packages come in either 4,5,7 or 9 investment packages.

For more information on The Ridges at Tellico Lake, visit www.theridgesattellicolake.com or call 1-877-Tenn-A-See (836-6273).

Has The Economy Started to Rebound?

Has the frightening spiral that began in September of 2008 finally stopped, and are we showing signs of a turnaround? The turnaround has been described as a big ocean liner, that can not physically make a sharp turn, but turns in a big wide arc, and we are somewhere on that arc.

Many economists, the majority, have stated that the recession we are in will be over toward the end of 2009, and that we should expect to see growth beginning winter, 2010. 

One area where we do see change already is in the real estate market. A report that came out June 16,2009 shows new signs the economy is actually stabilizing. Nationwide, the building of new homes and apartments increased 17.2% and building permits rose 4%. These are not huge increases, but I think everyone should be encouraged that things are definitely improving.

In some markets things are improving at significant rates. The Southwest Florida market, which includes Naples is showing a remarkable recovery. The Naples area is enjoying its best year since 2005. Here are a few numbers that show a significant change in sales and pending sales. May, 2009 sales units are up 16% over May, 2008. Year to date May, 2009 closed units are up 21% over YTD from May, 2008. Although median sale prices are down, this is what is driving sales and pending sales, and lowering inventory. As inventory lowers prices will go up. Pending sale units for May this year are up 43% from the same period last year, and YTD are up 69% over the same period last year. There has been an 11% decrease of inventory since last year.

The Naples area was one of the first to get hit with the real estate slow down, so it makes sense it would be the first to come back. Another area that was hit at the beginning was the mountain resort, home and land purchasing market in North Carolina, Georgia and Tennessee. This market is primed and ready to come back strong. Many builders and developers have taken this time to get their communities in shape, models built and are ready for the turnaround. 

One such community is The Ridges at Tellico Lake, a private gated community located at the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains in eastern Tennessee. Their infrastructure is in and they have built and furnished two gorgeous models ready for viewing and purchase. 

There are some areas and cities of the country that will take a very long time to recover, but even some of those have shown signs of life. Even in Detroit which has suffered greatly, is finding many investors coming in and purchasing homes, 10 or 15 at a time.

The destinations such as Naples or a beautiful mountain property such as The Ridges at Tellico Lake should be the quickest to turn around because these locations are in such high demand. 

Beach and Mountain properties tend not to rely on the same economic measure as other areas.

For more information about The Ridges at Tellico Lake please visit www.theridgesattellicolake.com or call 1-877-Tenn-A-See (836-6273).

Mountain Living near Knoxville - The Best of Both Worlds

Why is the current trend for baby boomers moving, retiring, or semi-retiring to a location that is near a college town, yet far enough away to enjoy the solitude of a mountain or country home.

The attraction to college towns is a love for cultural events, musical performances, theater, movies, art galleries and museums and just the ambiance of the cafes and energy that the students bring to a city. A city such as Gainesville in Florida or Knoxville in Tennessee, where two great universities are located depend greatly on the cooperation with their respective universities, to bring cultural activities to all residents of the city. 

The Knoxville music scene is described as "We've got it all".  From live music at the Tennessee and Bijou theaters to underground superstars at The Corner Lounge or The Pilot Light, from jazz to fusion, Knoxville's dynamic music scene is fun for everyone. With over 100 galleries, ranging form Appalachian crafts to African and other world cultures the Knoxville art scene is strong and vibrant. The citizens of Knoxville are great supporters of the arts and realize the importance of the arts in Knoxville's growth. 

There's something for everyone in Knoxville, from University of Tennessee sporting events, riverboat cruises, a world-class zoo, Knoxville Museum of Art, Women's Basketball Hall of Fame, and so much more.

And within a 30 minute drive is the fabulous Smoky Mountains, where many "boomers" are finding the perfect home.  The Ridges at Tellico Lake is one of those rare communities that are within a short drive of Knoxville, yet far enough way to enjoy the spectacular views of lakes and mountains and the peace and tranquility of living in the Great Smoky Mountains. James Mann, developer of The Ridges at Tellico Lake says, "We do have the best of both worlds here. We have this beautiful setting, Tellico Lake and all the amenities of a first class community, yet we are just a short drive to one of the best cities in America...what more could someone ask for."

The Ridges at Tellico Lake is offering home sites, and fractional ownership of gorgeous luxury log and timber homes, built by one of the best home builders in America. Fractional ownerships start at just $149,000. For more information please visit www.theridgesattellicolake.com or call 1-877-Tenn-A-See (836-6273)

How is Fractional Ownership different than Timeshare?

Many people have the  misconception that fractional ownership is the same as a timeshare. Actually there is a very big difference. Fractional ownership is deeded equity ownership. The typical fractional property is much more luxurious and larger than a timeshare. It is usually much easier to acquire financing, and fractional ownership offers much more flexibility and is considered an equity purchase.

How many weeks do I get?

The number of weeks each share owns depends on the amount of shares being offered - Unlike a timeshare which can typically be one or two weeks, a fractional can easily be from 6-8 weeeks minimum. Those weeks are split during the seasons, so the different seasons can be enjoyed.

What are other benefits of fractional over timeshare?

There are many. You may sell your fractional share at any time and at a profit. The flexibility of fractional options is much greater than timeshares. You can fractionally own luxury single family vacation homes. For example, The Ridges at Tellico Lake in the Smoky Mountains of Tennessee are offering two homes for fractional use. Both luxury homes built by one of the premier log home luxury home builders in the United States. They are 2,500 and 4,000 square feet in size, afford spectacular mountain and lake views and are both appointed with outstanding interior features. A 1/6th share is available from $149,000. This means you save over $850,000, to enjoy the same luxury and the same usage as sole ownership.

This is why fractional owners are calling this type of ownership - Smart Ownership.

You have none of the maintenance and none of the headaches that come with sole ownership.

For more information about the beautiful homes at The Ridges at Tellico Lake, visit www.theridgesattellicolake.com or call 1/877-Tenn-A-See (836-6273)

Why is Fractional Ownership the Smart Second Home Buying Option?

Why is it smart not to spend more than you have to ?

Why is it smart to enjoy absolute luxury for a fraction of the cost?

Why are so many second home buyers purchasing fractional homes?

Sole ownership of a luxury home used as a second home, or a vacation home is expensive. One pays full price and is responsible for all maintenance, repairs, etc. The home typically sits empty for at least 10 months of the year, as the average stay in second homes is 6 weeks per year. So why not share the costs and avoid the headaches of maintenance, cleaning, etc. Its all included.

The fractional luxury market is growing at a record pace, even in challenging economic times, because it is the smart way to own. From its humble beginnings fractional ownership has gone mainstream, and not just for resort communities. A very large section of the fractional market is now luxury single family homes. Imagine a vacation home, over 4,000 square feet of true luxury, a home valued over a million dollars, with fractional shares less than $200,000, and no maintenance or the headaches that can accompany sole ownership. Its a no brainer. Fractional, the wave of the future is here now.

At The Ridges at Tellico Lake, a lovely gated community in the gorgeous Smoky Mountains of Tennessee there are two fractional opportunities available. Both beautiful homes nestled within the foothills offer spectacular views of mountains and lake, and the quiet solitude of a mountain retreat. A 1/6 share of the 4,000 plus square foot log and timber masterpiece, which gives each owner a minimum of two months, costs just $149,900. Now you can see why fractional is called "fractional" - You will enjoy the same luxury, for the same amount of time and save over $850,000. You are purchasing for a fraction of the cost. Many of the chores and time consuming responsibilities of sole ownership are a thing of the past. You will have more time to enjoy the natural beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains. You'll have more time to play golf, hike, boat, fish and relish in the glorious vistas from the balcony of your mountain retreat.

For more information regarding the fractional opportunities at The Ridges at Tellico Lake, please visit www.theridgesattellicolake.com or call 1-877-Tenn-A-See (836-6273)

Why Fractional Ownership of Mountain Homes

Why are more and more people today, especially in more challenging economic times looking at and purchasing luxury homes with fractional ownership. Fractional ownership is not only the smart way to purchase beautiful homes, but there are many different types of fractional ownership, from jets and yachts, to vacation properties, exotic cars and even race horses, that are becoming more and more popular.

Fractional ownership is an attractive option to the luxury market with four star resorts throughout the world, including the Ritz Carlton properties and many of the finest resorts offering beach and ski amenities.

For a fraction of the cost you can own a luxury property, and not have the headaches of sole ownership. It is the smart move for everyone seeking a second home. Why pay for more than you use, and for the home to sit empty for 10 months?

Fractional ownership dates back to 1964, when a group of prominent individuals, including General LeMay, Arthur Godfrey and the legendary actor James Stewart joined together to create Executive Jet Aviation. Even though these individuals could afford sole ownership of a jet, they saw both the benefit and common sense approach of fractional ownership of a jet. This company flourished and evolved into Netjets, branching out to reach corporate executives and wealthy individuals. Netjets was purchased by Warren Buffet's Berkshire Hathaway, Inc for $725 million in 1998.

From that first step taken with fractional ownership millions of people today share the same concept. Whether its a Lamborghini, a luxury island condo, or a magnificent mountain retreat 

the concept of fractional ownership is seen today as a superb alternative to second home buying. You dont sacrifice luxury, and in most cases you can enjoy a level of luxury that may have seemed too costly.

A popular fractional ownership concept today is the luxury home. The Ridges at Tellico Lake, a gated community located in the Smoky Mountains of Eastern Tennessee is offering two new gorgeous mountain homes as fractional ownership. Up to 4,000 square feet of absolute luxury with spectacular mountain vistas, these homes offer the opportunity to purchase at just a fraction of the cost, starting at just $199,000.

For more information about fractional living and these homes visit www.theridgesattellicolake.com or call 1-877-Tenn-A-See (836-6273).

Happy 75th Great Smoky Mountain National Park

June 15, 2009 marks the 75th birthday of the most visited National Park in the United States.

The 520,000 acre preserve will host a huge celebration including the Knoxville Symphony concert and Senator Lamar Alexander. The park which straddles the Tennessee, North Carolina border attracts more than 9 million visitors a year, twice as many as any other national park.

President Franklin Roosevelt dedicated the park in 1940 and stated, "We shall conserve these trees... the trout and the thrush for the happiness of the American people". Its has been the goal of the park managers to keep that promise and to keep the forest similar to the way it looked when Native Americans used the land. The parks is home to 100,000 species of plants and animals, including elk, black bear and trout.

The area around the park has grown rapidly over the past few years. Tellico Lake in Eastern Tennessee is now home to many lovely communities, that have taken great care to preserve the natural beauty of the area. James Mann, one of the developers of a nearby community, The Ridges at Tellico Lake says what attracted him to the area was the beauty and history of the Great Smoky Mountains. "Having this gorgeous national park near our community is a great attraction for our buyers. Just a short drive away and they are in an American treasure. Our community offers spectacular views of the Smoky Mountains from our homes. If it were not for the vision of the people that worked so hard to preserve our heritage, the beauty of our community and the area would not be here today", states Mann.

We offer large estate size home sites and fractional ownership of gorgeous log and timber homes, that blend in with the environment and offer fantastic views of the majestic Smoky Mountains of Eastern Tennessee. The location of our site and the Great Smoky Mountain National Park is perfect for families from all over the east, south and midwest. Within a days drive of the entire region, its natural beauty and great history it is no wonder the park is America's number one national park attraction", adds Mann.

For more information about the Ridges at Tellico Lake, please visit www.theridgesattellicolake.ocm or call 1-877-Tenn-A-See (836-6273)