Asheville ECO-GREEN Real Estate

   The American Institute of Architects (AIA)  recently instituted a "GreenSteps" initiative with a series of instructive videos available for architects, other professionals and the public.  

"There's been a lot of talk about changes in our climate lately. CO2 emissions, dwindling resources, and energy usage are growing concerns in every walk of life, " a spokesperson for the organization reported.

 " AIA Architects, in particular, want to address those concerns. We strongly believe that the time for talk has passed, and now it is time to walk the walk. "

Photo courtesy of AIA 

Living here in Asheville, NC, where real estate professionals and our clients more and more are in the know, and are demanding green-excellence in housing opportunities, I could guess that nowhere is that green-excellence more visible than right here in our fair city. 

Certainly, the local Asheville, AIA Chapter actively is seeking to " work together to address issues of concern for our region such as historic preservation, smart growth, sustainability, green building, affordable housing and more."  

 ** Here in Asheville, we have seen that sustainable design makes an impressive  difference. We have also seen that it is important to feel knowledgeable and confident when exploring the Green issues including costs and design.

Many of the purveyors of green-excellence  here in Asheville consider an historic effort by the American Institute of Architects,  a boon. It comes in the form of a series of videos now available online called, " Green Architecture Resources for Clients."  Researching these webpages I found information on

1) costs,  including information about tax breaks and rebates, lower construction costs, reducing or eliminating the need for heating and air-conditioning equipment and the associated costs of purchase, maintenance and electricity, and on cutting energy and water bills by as much as half-  

2) what  actually makes a green building "Green"  and  

3)  ROI tables  where you can share the © GREENandSAVE RIO tables
with other people via the code provided. 

...good info if you are interested in planning new buildings or the renovation of existing buildings-and have "green concerns". . .

 GreenStepand the  multipart video series on the benefits of green architecture are HERE> . Most of the series is already available and you can look for completion by the end of the year.

• Greenstep 1: Water Conservation - already posted.
• Greenstep 2: Smart Controls - already posted.
• Greenstep 3: Radiant Heating and Cooling - already posted.
• Greenstep 4: Vegetation for Sun Control - already posted.
• Greenstep 5: The Whole Building Approach - already posted.
• Greenstep 6: Green Tags - already posted.
• Greenstep 7: Energy Modeling - September 29
• Greenstep 8: Green Roofs - October 13
• Greenstep 9: Daylighting - October 27
• Greenstep 10: Choosing Green Materials - November 10
• Greenstep 11: Carbon Offsets - November 24
• Greenstep 12: Deconstruction - December 8

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Read  GREENOLINA'S  news  about mountain and valley  neighborhoods, real estate,  local  day trips, picnics, and  ecotourist attractions you'll appreciate.   Curious aboutgreen building, remodeling and eco-communities ?  ...Subscribe to Greenolina's  "Green Wheels" BLOG.   

__~o
 -\_<,                                       
(*)/'(*)    ..........      ............and always remember that " poets are soldiers that liberate words from the steadfast possession of definition." -Eli Khamarov  .......  We are in a sustainable  world, so grab hold of your Muse... dream that world... and make it happen!. .........................    .............

The American Institute of Architects "GreenStep" Initiative. The Eco-Steward Firm, ALL Eco-Certified® Real Estate Consultants!  Copyright © 2008 All Rights Reserved.

 

For many years, I've been keeping a  "Good-Eye" out for  clients who are conservation real estate land buyers and investors. 

 Traditionally, landowners relocating and building in Western North Carolina  have enjoyed the highlands and the many gifts of living here.

But since 1975, we have found it more and more challenging to find large acreages in the mountains. These days, partly because a good deal  of the land is steep and rugged terrain, and too because  eco-friendly developers know that it is mighty expensive and even imprudent to prepare such land for development, land values have appreciated significantly. (Map courtesy of Blue Ridge Forever.)  

As a Land Specialist still attempting to keep that  ‘good-eye" out for my conservation real estate buyers,  I note with interest the steep slope ordinances recently approved. I recognize how neighbors, who watch carefully and voice opinions at city council meetings, are taking action to protect farmlands, land containing rare, unique species and ecosystems.I observe what is happening with our awesome and beautiful viewsheds.

Recently, Phyllis Stiles of Blue Ridge Forever  stated, "With population and development growing at unprecedented rates in Western North Carolina, land trusts are having to take a broader look at where they invest their limited resources. The lands we lose or protect this decade will define the region for generations to come."  

So what are the folks at Blue Ridge Forever, that coalition of 13 land conservation groups  all about? They are energizing the effort to save much of the mountain lands that possess these special features:

     1.    significant ecological qualities
    2.    high quality waters or significant water supply
    3.    connectivity of the landscape - linking protected lands and habitats together
    4.    cultural and economic importance, including exceptional scenic views
    5.    significant tracts of working forests or farms

In a report entitled a Conservation Vision for Western North Carolina,  land conservation organizations, leading conservation thinkers, biological experts, agricultural specialists and cultural researchers hope  to communicate with land trusts as they decide where to commit resources.

 As a real estate professional involved in conservation real estate, I am delighted to be a small part of this. I get to represent places like Three Creeks Eco-Community and Hickory Nut Forest Eco-Community. Both of these conservation neighborhoodswere developed by private eco-developers. Each purchased over 200 acres of land and then surveyed off about 1/10 of the acreage on which to place an ecovillage and/or building sites. I also have the "feel-good" knowledge that in some small way, I am helping 

•1.       to preserve access to fresh, locally grown food
•2.       to protect crucial water resources
•3.       to safeguard the precious views and landscape
•4.       to ensure that the resources and beauty are around for the next generation.

Here are links and  (shown above) a numbered and labeled map from Blue Ridge Forever that locate some of the sustainable areas at risk  

1. New River Headwaters (F) 2. Stone Mountain Area (FP) 3. Highlands of Roan to Yellow Mountain (A) 4. North Toe River Headwaters 5. Valle Crucis (F) 6. Brushy Mountains (F) 7. North Fork Catawba River & Upper     Linville River Gorge (FP) 8. Spring Creek Farming Community (FA) 9. Black and Craggy Mountains (P) 10. Sandy Mush Farming Community (F) 11. Smoky Mountains (AP) 12. Great Balsams and Plott Balsams Mountains (P) 13. Pisgah Ridge Bethel Farming Community (FP) 14. Hickory Nut Gorge

15. Hickory Nut Mountain 16. South Mountains to Dyartsville 17. White Oak Mountain to Tryon Peak 18. Dupont State Forest 19. Upper Tuckasegee Gorge 20. Chattooga Headwaters and Whiteside Mountain Area 21. Little Tennessee River Valley (F) 22. Hiawassee Valley, Unicoi Mountains and      Snowbird Mountains (F) 23. Appalachian Trail (A) 24. Blue Ridge Parkway (P) 25. Upper French Broad River Watershed (F) 26. Grandfather Mountain and Wilson Creek (P) 27. Pond Mountain (A) 28. Fairview Farmland (F)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

If you are an eco-frienldy person, you may also appreciate the following:   

13 Top-Notch RESOURCES:  Blue Ridge Rural Land Trust Boone, NC, Carolina Mountain Land Conservancy Hendersonville, NC, Conservation Trust for North Carolina Raleigh, NC, Foothills Conservancy of North CarolinaMorganton, NC, High Country Conservancy Boone, NC, Highlands-Cashiers Land Trust Highlands, NC,  Land Trust for the Little Tennessee Franklin, NC, National Committee for the New River West Jefferson, NC,  Pacolet Area ConservancyTryon, NC, Southern Appalachian Highlands ConservancyAsheville, NC, The Conservation Fund Chapel Hill, NC, The North Carolina Chapter of The Nature Conservancy Saluda, NC, Trust for Public LandCarolinas Field Office - Charlotte, NC

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Read  GREENOLINA'S  newsabout mountain and valley  neighborhoods, conservation real estate,  local  day trips, picnics, and  ecotourist attractions you'll just love.   Curious aboutgreen building, remodeling and eco-communities ?  ...Subscribe to Greenolina's  "Green Wheels" BLOG.   

__~o
 -\_<,                                       
(*)/'(*)    ..........      ............and always remember that " poets are soldiers that liberate words from the steadfast possession of definition." -Eli Khamarov  .......  We are in a sustainable  world, so grab hold of your Muse... dream that world... and make it happen!. .........................    .............

Keeping a  "Good-Eye" Out for  Conservation Real Estate Land Buyers. The Eco-Steward Firm, ALL Eco-Certified® Real Estate Consultants!  Copyright © 2008 All Rights Reserved

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 Mother was a member of the League of Women Voters. Even more than just being a member, she got involved...volunteered. Time and again over the years Mama was up at 4:00 AM and out of the house before "dawn's early light" to work at the polling place. She always came home after dusk, but with a smile of satisfaction on her face bringing with her amusing tales and a shared sense that she had participated in the democratic process at the "grass roots" level.

She also loved watching a good debate, and then opening up a discussion about it... in a special way... that "special way" took some discipline and thought because it was a kind of flag-raising experience that came from the notion that we can choose to have differing opinions and still get along beautifully with and even complement one another. (see photo)

This was Mama's legacy, non-violent discussion. To her, non-violent communication happened "when words came from the heart. Then they break through barriers and elicit compassion...."

Although it was in her nature to be thoughtful when making  choices, she attributed much of her skill in leading discussions to good advice she gathered as a member of the League  of Women Voters.

Remembering this, I ventured on over to the refresh my memory and I am quoting here:

 " Since 1920, the League of Women Voters has been devoted to improving our systems of government and impacting public policies through citizen education and advocacy. Known for its passionate hands-on work and ability to mobilize instantaneously, the nonpartisan grassroots organization is 150,000 members strong with over 900 leagues at the local and state levels.

Though local and national issues and needs may change over time, the League's basic mission remains the same: to make democracy work for all citizens. SO.... In the spirit of participation she might have appreciated had she even known what the Internet is, I'm sending this along...for all of us, from Mama.

Debate Watching 101...by League of Women Voters.......debate watching resources from the League of Women Voters  designed to help viewers understand the elements and nuances of debates,  in addition to learning how to watch them with a scrutinizing eye.

:: Debate Watching 101
:: How to Judge A Candidate
:: Debate Discussion Guide
:: Debate Calendar
:: Related Links

  How to Judge a Candidate

::  How to Judge a Candidate
::  Candidate Report Card

Also of interest from the League of Women Voters these offerings which may be of particular interest to real estate professionals and our clients, no matter whether GREEN ENERGY policies and sustainable innovations are on the table for you:. Comparing the Candidates on Foreign Policy, 10 Best Energy Policies....    I know where we will be found during the debates. We've invited the neighbors for a get together here in Asheville, and friendly discussion.

Here is the  Debate Calendar

Friday, September 26: Presidential debate on domestic policy, University of Mississippi
Thursday, October 2: Vice presidential debate on domestic policy and foreign policy, Washington University, St. Louis
Tuesday, October 7: Presidential debate in a town hall format, Belmont University, Nashville
Wednesday, October 15:Presidential debate on foreign policy, Hofstra University, Hempstead, NY

All four debates will begin at 9pm ET, and last for 90 minutes. They will be broadcast on the major broadcast networks, including CBS, NBC, ABC, and FOX. They will also be aired on cable news channels such as CNN, MSNBC, Fox News, and C-SPAN.

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Read  Greenolina's  "Green Wheels" BLOG.   

__~o
 -\_<,                                       
(*)/'(*)    ..........      ............and always remember that "when words come from the heart, they break through barriers and elicit compassion....".........................    .............

Debate Watching for Real Estate Professionals: Clues from  the League  of Women Voters. .The Eco-Steward Firm, ALL Eco-Certified® Real Estate Consultants!  Copyright © 2008 All Rights Reserved 

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LOOKING for tax credits?

Here's something you might find EXTREMELY valuable. Please note, as Mary points  in her post below, that the tax credit currenlty available is about to expire... so .interested parties WOOOO-Hooooo...contact your senators and congressPeople to

extend  the tax credit 

authorize $800 million of new clean renewable energy bonds, with that total split in thirds for local and state governments, public power providers and electric cooperatives.

provide $1.5 billion in new tax credits for advanced coal electricity projects and coal gasification projects and provide credits to industrial facilities for capturing and storing carbon dioxide.

 provide for  a new consumer credit of up to $7,500 for plug-in electric vehicles ....

 extend the biodiesel production credit and alternative fuels excise credit for one year.

provide up to $800 million for state and local governments to reduce greenhouse gas emissions 

..please continue reading....

An  Energy Wise True or False Test  was delivered with a smile to our client who purchased  a wee rustic cabin in the mountains near Asheville with an energy-efficient mortgage.

Certainly, the place was  in need of updating. The appliances were about as old as the structure itself, which is to say at least as old as your Great-Grandma,  and so our buyer intended to replace them, immediately.  

 She wanted to know 
1) what she could do to find out more about the various appliances on the market, and

2) for what she might be looking . . .

 

We had checked with the lender hoping that they would pay for an energy rating as part of the costs , but that didn't work out, so, as a closing gift,  we gave her a gift certificate for services from a professional Home Energy Rater  who could offer her the expert opinion she needed. 

We pointed out that according to the US Environmental Protection Agency,   "When buying an appliance, remember that it has two (2)  price tags: what you pay to take it home and what you pay for the energy and water it uses, and, that being said...just for fun, in her  gift card we also placed an amusing
Energy Wise True or False Test. (see below)... 

Here's the test....Let me know how  you do. I'll come back in a bit and place the correct answers in the comment section.

  True or False 

1.Federal law requires EnergyGuide labeling of many home appliances
  T ____    F _____

  2 ENERGY STAR qualified appliances incorporate advanced technologies that use 10-50% less energy and water than standard models.
   T ____    F _____

 3. Top-freezer models can use as much as 10-25% less energy than side-by-side refrigerator/freezers.
 .   T ____    F _____ 

3. Self-cleaning ovens are more insulated than other models , but will NOT save on utility bills. .   T ____    F _____ 

5. Front-loading washing machines use approximately one-third of the water that conventional machines use to wash the same size load of clothing.
 .   T ____    F _____

 6. Gas ovens and ranges use less energy than comparable electric appliances.
.   T ____    F _____

 7. The EnergyGuide label gives two pieces of information you can use for comparison of different brands and models when shopping for a new appliances.
.   T ____    F _____

 8. Appliances consume a significant portion of energy in the home.
.   T ____    F _____

  9. Appliances account for over 80 % of a home's total energy costs.
 .   T ____    F _____ 

10. The Energy Star^® label indicates that an appliance exceeds federal minimum efficiency standards by a specific percentage (15-20% depending on the type of appliance) or consumption level.

T ____    F _____

 

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 __~o
 -\_<,                                       
(*)/'(*)    ..........      ............and always remember that " poets are soldiers that liberate words from the steadfast possession of definition." -Eli Khamarov  .......  We are in a sustainable  world, so grab hold of your Muse... dream that world... and make it happen!. .........................    .............

An  Energy Wise True or False Test. The Eco-Steward Firm, ALL Eco-Certified® Real Estate Consultants!  Copyright © 2008 All Rights Reserved

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We live in the mountains, a"sweet spot" for  for Eco Development and Communities and for people who make choices for quality of life.....

Just one look at  our   view-sheds says more than a thousand words in that regard. The Asheville area mountains, the valleys, the streams and waterfalls are natural gifts in-which to delight.

(photo is of the AMAZING  waterfall at Asheville area Three Creeks Eco-Community)

And not only a sense of place announces itself,  but, equally many say,  a sense of community.

 

During difficult days and uncertain times, how good it is to be able to connect with such gifts. The uncommon blessing of neighborliness and verve, prevails here, despite the challenges.

Was it only yesterday that a friend remarked,  " Aren't we glad we live in interesting times?"
To which I replied, with a glimmer and a grin, "You bet!'

Possibly we have inherited a "can-do" attitude that comes with the  magical blend of  our mountain heritage; the indigenous peoples , the Scots-Irish highlanders, the singers and dancers and craftspeople whose legacy is written into the Land. I I feel  refreshed with pure possibility when I stand in the mists of the waterfall, or look out on the local harvest of organically-grown produce and the happy faces of the families who provide food for our tables.

Like the Big Laurel River,a beautiful," intact example of a healthy high mountain riparian ecosystem" where children play and  churches baptize , and fisherman, paddlers, and grandparents converge, it feels to me, even more today than yesterday, that Asheville holds the promise of  welcoming celebration of life to all. No wonder then that Asheville is the "Sweet Spot" for Eco Development and Communities I am proud to represent and love to visit.

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__~o
 -\_<,                                       
(*)/'(*)    ..........      ............and always remember that " poets are soldiers that liberate words from the steadfast possession of definition." -Eli Khamarov  .......  We are in a sustainable  world, so grab hold of your Muse... dream that world... and make it happen!. .........................    .............

Asheville the "Sweet Spot" for Eco Development and Communities. The Eco-Steward Firm, ALL Eco-Certified® Real Estate Consultants!  Copyright © 2008 All Rights Reserved

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Lot 12  could be called the IDEAL LOT in the authentic eco-community of Hickory Nut Forest in Gerton, North Carolina.

This ECO COMMUNITY adjacent to 250 acres of "forever wild" land and with trails leading to 800 acres of conservation partners' lands is just 23min to the cultural center of Asheville, NC. . ALL HealthyBuilt homes are planned for the eco-community which is also aiming to be a net zero energy community.

Especially desirable for Lot 12 is that is offers very good southern sun. Home builders and gardeners can take good advantage of this aspect of Lot 12.

You will love the nature trails from Hickory Nut Forest Eco-community. There are 6 miles of trails in the neighborhood alone and these stretch out to meet 800+/- AC of conservation land, awesome waterfalls and streams, (see photo) distant mountain vistas, heirloom apple orchard, and grape garden (see photo below).

The Asheville, N.C.-based eco-developers dubbed Site # 12 , with it's hand made path into the hardwoods, "Striped Maple".  

Here you will find a flag flying in the mountain breeze to mark the path  to take as you walk the terrain that  softly rises into the trees.  The 1.25 AC Lot 12 could be calling ..."welcome to this  conservation neighborhood"  (just 17 lots surrounded on three sides by over a 800 acres of conservation land)... Yes, here is an .easy building site, good southern solar-orientation...and  a friendly atmosphere.....

•  location
•  Ashevile's "green" real estate market 
•  community

....Looking to the Future.... THIS Asheville, NC eco-community is amazing, because, right from the start, the  eco-innovators  who designed and planned this conservation neighborhood  have "done it right"!    

Welcome to the Greater Asheville, NC Area, and
Lot 12 Striped Maple, Hickory Nut Forest Eco-Community in Charming
 Gerton, North Carolina   

  

CONTEXT- Location: Building Site 12 is within 30 minute pleasant drive from Asheville, N.C. and the city's healthy impetus for sustainable development,  diverse economic structure bases on tourism, services, and  eco-innovativeattitudes. Overall education levels, wages and per capita income levels are on the "plus" side.  Standards of living are, too. 

CONTEXT- Asheville Area Sustainable Real Estate Market:GREEN is "red-hot" here.  Greater Asheville, North Carolina's GREEN  real estate market enjoys clients who are hungry for sustainable neighborhoods, energy-efficient design and green-built homes. Now take a look at the natural amenities in the conservation neighborhood in which Site 12 at Hickory Nut Forest Eco-community  rests, and you may conclude, as I have, that THIS IS THE PERFECT SPOT for your eco-friendly construction.     

CONTEXT The Eco-Community & Conservation Land :  Just A Few of the Conservation Neighborhood's Perks

 (below-- the Old Apple Orchard and future farm on adjacent conservation land. You can hike to it from Site 12)

 

  - FEATURES & BENEFITS  FOR YOU   

 - Site 12 is within the first development in the USA to combine wide-ranging land conservation  with an eco-friendly community of green-built  homes, to be powered by renewable energy  -(wind power, hydropower , geothermal) - to create  a  "net-zero-energy community".

1. You are on the leading edge + save $$.
2. Living in this conservation neighborhood means enjoying the forever-wild mountain forests, soaring cliffs and pristine, cascading streams, out your back door. You can walk for miles in the serenity of nature.
3. Great perks for body mind and spirit! This Eco-Community- is easy drive from Asheville's, cultural amenities, arts, music and delicious cuisine, as well as excellent healthcare all nearby. (17 miles, 30 min) 
4. You get the "best of both worlds." 
5. Hiking trails lead conveniently from Site 12  into 800 + acres of nature preserve lands  with waterfalls, streams, cliffs and mountaintop vistas.
   You are IN a sustainable  world.    

LOCATED  in the quaint village of Gerton, Site 12 is tucked away in the Upper Hickory Nut Gorge. . You have found the place to rest and relax, deeply. 

Tennis courts, (a stone's throw from Lot 12)and close-by- hiking trails, horseback riding, bird watching,  fishing, picnicking, boating, over a dozen golf courses in the area, biking, gardening, and community social events. Within walking distance:  Nita's Grocery/General Store, the Post Office, Gerton Fire Department. 

Building Site 12. 1.25 AC.
Listed at $159,000.  
MLS 414754

If you are not committed to another real estate professional, then please call me at 828-255-1082 . For more information on THIS and other featured properties, please visit: http://www.ecostewardrealty.com/  . We invite you to  specify your property needs, design your dream , see our  my "prime property picks" and search the MLS that covers a 5-county area here in mountains near Asheville, North Carolina.

The ECO Certified ® Real Estate Consultants at The ECO Steward Real Estate Firm  specialize in working with eco-developers and land for sale in the Greater Asheville, North Carolina area. We are excited about value-added, ECO-friendly properties, and focus on positive futures. Our real estate practice inspires property investments for wealth of the generous kind.

Lot 12  Hickory Nut Forest Eco-Community Gerton NC 28735.  Copyright © 2008 All Rights Reserved  Asheville ECO Real Estate: Trends, Legacies & The Home Place   Subscribeto Greenolina's  "Green Wheels" BLOG and keep  those creative wheels a turnin'

__~o
-\_<,
(*)/'(*)

Hickory Nut Forest in Gerton N.C.   is an evolving eco-community and conservation neighborhood . This eco-community- is an easy drive from Asheville's, cultural amenities, arts, music and delicious cuisine, as well as excellent healthcare all nearby. (17 miles, 23-27 min.)   And just 4 minutes to the CSA.  If you enjoy farm-fresh produce, you will appreciate how close it is to the eco-community.

The Greater Asheville area is an important  "hub" for green and sustainable development. Buyers and investors and sellers of real property will tell you-  "GREEN" is the word here in Western North Carolina's mountains. "We are in a sustainable framework, and we're lovin' it!" 

Possibly that  explains why numerous eco-communities are popping up in and around Asheville, including  Asheville area's  Hickory Nut Forest. Honoring the Land, the eco-developers placed just 17 lots here, and they are surrounded on three sides by over 800 acres of conservation land. What a place. 

From the eco-community, trails (like those seen in the photo) "forever wild" of conservation partners' land.The adjoining 250 acres will serve the community with a activities building and an organic garden. To me this means healthy possibilities.  

If you are like me, and you relish just standing by a waterfall , or take pleasure in hiking trails that lead to wildflower meadows and beyond them, rock-climbing adventure, you have got to visit this eco-community! Oh! And while you are there,  pick an heirloom apple or grape as you meander over to listen to Hickory Nut Creek . Simple treat? Yes. And satisfying.

 

Honey Bear Orchard Organic Apple Fest

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Read  GREENOLINA'S  news  about mountain and valley  neighborhoods, real estate,  local  day trips, picnics, and  ecotourist attractions you'll just love.   Curious aboutgreen building, remodeling and eco-communities ?  ...Subscribe to Greenolina's  "Green Wheels" BLOG.   

__~o
 -\_<,                                       
(*)/'(*)    ..........      ............and always remember that " poets are soldiers that liberate words from the steadfast possession of definition." -Eli Khamarov  .......  We are in a sustainable  world, so grab hold of your Muse... dream that world... and make it happen!. .........................    .............

HickoryNut Forest Gerton N.C   Evolving Eco-Community.The Eco-Steward Firm, ALL Eco-Certified® Real Estate Consultants!  Copyright © 2008 All Rights Reserved

In the past two years, I have closed ten (10 ) transactions I can attribute directly to connections I made through Active Rain. 

To the "Rain Gods" back in Seattle, and  All....Wow!  "Y'ALL ROCK  Active Rain!" Thanks so much for helping me achieve this 200,000 point  milestone! 

It's a prodigious reckoning...hitting 200,000 points.

  Makes one feel as if a word or two is in order ..something special, something rare...something appropriate...and, most especially, something to express appreciation for all the positives that have arrived in my life as the 200,000 points collected themselves around my BLOG  since I stepped out into the (ACTIVE) RAIN.. 

200,00 points!

First of all, I sure didn't accumulate those points all alone! Thank you for reading and subscribing to my BLOG and commenting.

 Thanks for the posts you write that make it hard not to comment. For me, stepping out into the RAIN,  has turned out to be an umbrella turned UP that now captures the most amiable surprises-really valuable real estate information, networking, learning, expanding, and most of all, it has been about  Y- O- U...

It feels to me that  You RAINERS would welcome me into your neighborhoods...so...thank you in  Hawaii ... to Randy,Sally, (we play the CD you sent us over at the Office, especially when the stress-factor is in play), Kimo,   Georgina and Pete...and thank you in Florida and Broker Bryant and TLW, (with prayers for TLW)  Ines, who got me thiking about art deco, and Sharon,  who got me thiking about DINGS, and Janie, who makes me want to get out on more equestrian acreages than I have time to do, and  Lloyd,  and  , Katerina (how does she find time to do all she does??) and  Bill and Barbara Jo ...

...and out on the West Coast, thanks  ... Jeff Turner , Laurie , Bill Roberts, Roberta Murphy to name just a few. . .do you all know that I am at least a slightly improved version of my old self because of Y O U ? 

Thanks to Karen Hurst  who, way back in 2006,  taught me about Groups, to Jeff Belonger, who generously offers mortgage advice, to Carole Cohen, a teacher with  absolutely top-notch Localism posts!) and thank you to The Charmingly Comedic, Linda Davis, , and to the energetic, Missy . I sure like your videos!

And heartfelt thanks to my almost 800 pals in the Eco-All-Stars Group  including : Mary Bigelow,
( through AR we found out that we are long-lost cousins!) , and "Ms. GREEN" , Stephanie Edwards-Musa,    and Jeff G (this guy has lots to say and most of it is worthwhile!=) , and "Right-from the-Heart" ,Sarah Cooper, and The Wise and Wonderful,  Joan Whitebook,   and Joni M.  (where does she find those cute little doo-dads she sprinkles around her posts?) and the exotic Margaret Rome,  and sincere Jennifer F. and thanks to horse lover Tricia J (I collect her recipes)    and Dan (the Running Man) Cummings...Sylvia, Lane, Rich...

THANK YOU to all the amazing writers here at Active Rain..I'll mention just a few:  The brilliant Lola who opens the windows to  fraiche aire  for all of us at AR,  to  the Luminous, Patricia Kennedy,  the Superb, Jo-Anne Smith  , The Gifted, Eloise Gift,..I've already mentioned Sally C and Margaret R...each day it seems more and more I am inspired by these people... 

and Dear Colleen  (we talk on the phone and she sent me cosmos seeds this year that you see in the photo on this post!) and......and Friend, Ann Cummings,  whom I've met and lunched with twice now!  ... so many, many more...  Back home here in North Carolina, I'm hoping that 2009 holds the possibility of meeting...Michele, Ginger, Susan , Leigh, the original NC Ladies of AR, and Diane  and Penny .

I already know so many Active Rain Members here is Asheville, many of whom are leading edge trend-setters and Eco Certified® Real Estate Consultants and 1031 Consultants including:  - Matt, the 1031-derful Guy , and  Eco Certified® Real Estate Consultants  Arlene,(Senior Broker),  "Doc"  Bill W., the Dashing Dowser,  Sami,  who has a 20-year track record as a 1031 real estate investor and is completing her Green Building Contractor Education, Rhodes,  Permaculture Person, Organic Farmer and REALTOR®,  and My Favorite professional fine arts photographer and REALTOR® my son, JT...

Thanks to Land Pro, Bill Kaminer, (it's probably your fault that I am a Land Specialist) ,Staging Expert, Leslie G.  to whose expertise we directly can attribute the sale of two properties this year, to Musician and REALTOR®, Scott Raines , and REALTOR® and Graphics Guru Gwen . Hmmmm. We Active Rain Members and REALTORS® right here in Asheville, North Carolina must be Cultural Creatives

I hereby tender repeated thanks to Steph and Mary, the moderators who help me moderate the Eco-All-Star Group, where camaraderie reigns supreme.  I founded that Group back in November of 2006. There were just 2 of us then,my much appreciated pal,  Dena Stevens  and me. Now we have almost 800 members! Join us if you have a funny-bone, or you are an artist, poet, "greenie", possibility thinker or you just want to find out what the green trend is all about real fast. This Group "writes great stuff"  about what is happening in green real estate, building, eco-communities and development and has fun doing it.

I wish I could sit here for the next many hours to name all of you, but will you understand and excuse me if I don't? .

Thank you ALL.  I am SO appreciative of the SUBCRIBERSwho subscribe to my BLOG
   Y-O-U are what keep me going...shall I try for 300,000 points by this time next year?

I wrote my first post  at Active Rain exactly two (2) years ago today!  I was shaking like a leaf when I posted it. Didn't have a  clue what would happen next. ...but, along the way, as you now know,   it turned out to be a GIFT and a BLESSING. Daily, I connect with amazing people, read  and learn more than I ever expected to, refer business and receive referrals for clients relocating to Asheville.

Again, I can only say.. ....Wow!  "Y'ALL ROCK  Active Rain!" ...Thanks so much to all for helping me achieve this 200,000 point  milestone!  ________________________________________________________________________________________________ 

Keep Rolling.......Subscribe to Greenolina's  "Green Wheels" BLOG.   

__~o
 -\_<,                                       
(*)/'(*)    ..........      ............and always remember that " poets are soldiers that liberate words from the steadfast possession of definition." -Eli Khamarov  .......  We are in a sustainable  world, so grab hold of your Muse... dream that world... and make it happen!. .........................    .............

The Eco-Steward Firm, ALL Eco-Certified® Real Estate Consultants!  Copyright © 2008 All Rights Reserved

Someone asked me just this week for my opinion on the "green-built situation" in today's mortgage market. Personally, I am very positive. Why" Because excellence and sustainability seem always to stand for themselves, even in challenging times.

So, maybe I am more than "positive"....  You  could say that I am excited about the possibilities and the positive impact happening in terms of green building (and remodeling) here in Asheville and across the country.

 More and more, eco-friendly homes are on the minds and buying lists of our clients. As I poll REALTORS® across the country, I find that the interest in healthy-built homesin their towns and neighborhoods also  is on the rise . And, the National Association of REALTORS® will be offering a "Green" Designation in the not too distant future which indicates that this trend is significant.

Here's an idea: Possibly find a green-built  home in your neighborhood. Take a look and judge for yourself. Tell me if  that "green-built"  is not only GREEN...sustainable ....and worthy of your consideration....but, like the new green-built home in the photo here,  is absolutely charming to see ......and let me know what you think.

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Read  GREENOLINA'S  news  about mountain and valley  neighborhoods, real estate,  local  day trips, picnics, and  ecotourist attractions you'll just love.   Curious aboutgreen building, remodeling and eco-communities ?  ...Subscribe to Greenolina's  "Green Wheels" BLOG.   

__~o
 -\_<,                                       
(*)/'(*)    ..........      ............and always remember that " poets are soldiers that liberate words from the steadfast possession of definition." -Eli Khamarov  .......  We are in a sustainable  world, so grab hold of your Muse... dream that world... and make it happen!. .........................    .............

Green-Builts in Asheville, Asheville's GREEN and  Positive Real Estate Trend. The Eco-Steward Firm, ALL Eco-Certified® Real Estate Consultants!  Copyright © 2008 All Rights Reserved

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I was just 21 and getting ready to vote for the first time when Dad revealed his take on  the "dense forest of politics" and how to decipher what "branches" are in play when the game is all about dispensing power and money. 

"Just remember two things," he said, "First, know your own philosophy of life. Be able to say what it is in a short sentence, and act on it; and second, do your homework on the candidates using objective resources. Then pick the one most in line with your philosophy" 

"I don't know if I am a Republican or a Democrat, or an Independent, " I told him. 

Dad smiled ... "You are a HUMANITARIAN," he informed me. 

That's what I was, all right, and what I  still am (at least trying to be) today.

According to Wikipedia, humanitarians believe that " all human beings deserve respect and dignity and should be treated as such. Therefore, humanitarians work towards advancing the well-being of humanity as a whole. [Humanitarianism] is antithesis of the "us vs. them" mentality that characterizes tribalism and ethnic nationalism. Humanitarians abhor slavery, violation of basic and human rights, and discrimination on the basis of features such as color of skin, religion, ancestry, place of birth, etc. Humanitarianism drives people to save lives, alleviate suffering and promote human dignity in the middle of man-made or natural disasters." 

Humanitarianism is embraced by movements and people across the political spectrum. The informal ideology can be summed up by a quote from Albert Schweitzer: "Humanitarianism consists in never sacrificing a human being to a purpose."  SO...my philosophy, stated succinctly is  never to sacrifice a human being to a purpose. 

Sometimes I think that if we don't start talking with  one another, we will go on forever sacrificing human beings to the gods of superiority and greed.

Still, I cling to the notion that there can be a collaborative solution to  human misery .

I deplore the prospect of one or two thousand more years of the outmoded "us vs. them"  gig.. I think we can do better than that. And, I have reason to hope that's possible, you  know! 

Seems collaboration has been catching on more and more these days, whether in the practice of real estate, education or science and technology.

 For example, interdisciplinary teams of  scientists, clinicians, technicians and other experts have pledged to work together to accelerate ground-breaking cancer research.  

And just this September, an unprecedented collaboration brought together the major television networks, entertainment industry executives, celebrities and prominent leaders in cancer researchand patient advocacy where ABC, CBS and NBC donated one hour of simultaneous commercial-free primetime for a nationally televised fundraising event that  aimed at rallying the public around the goal of ending cancer's reign as a leading cause of death.

I'm impressed. Does this mean that we are getting that dusting out the old us vs. them win/lose "crapola" doesn't cut it when there is no win or lose ... Just lose?.. Can we hope for the understanding that within the tight confines of diplomacy there is little room for flaring tempers and threats?  Humanitarians, let's just see how the 2008 US presidential election plays out and evaluate our progress then.

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Read  GREENOLINA'S  newsabout mountain and valley  neighborhoods, real estate,  local  day trips, picnics, and  ecotourist attractions you'll just love.   Curious aboutgreen building, remodeling and eco-communities ?  ...Subscribe to Greenolina's  "Green Wheels" BLOG.   

__~o
 -\_<,                                       
(*)/'(*)    ..........      ............and always remember that " poets are soldiers that liberate words from the steadfast possession of definition." -Eli Khamarov  .......  We are in a sustainable  world, so grab hold of your Muse... dream that world... and make it happen!. .........................    .............

Humanitarians and REALTORS® Asheville's GREEN Real Estate Collaboration . The Eco-Steward Firm, ALL Eco-Certified® Real Estate Consultants!  Copyright © 2008 All Rights Reserved

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ECO-All-Starsmoderators, Stephanie, Mary and I concocted an appetizing Summer "dish" in the Eco-All-Stars (monthly) August Challenge. Eco All Star August Challenge

This "entree" is designed to gentle us into the workings of Localism...as Steph pointed out...

 " The NEW Localism is all about talking WITH the consumer not TO the consumer.  So, how can WE as a group provide approved content to Localism, provide the consumer with amazing LOCAL information....

And get them involved with the site, blog, comments...It's about making connections.  Finding like minded people in the community that want to share information as well?

The contest had been extended until September 6th because the entries were so "delicious"...! Read below to see the "dessert recipe" we cam up with as the tie-breaker!!!!!! 

and ENJOY the Eco All Star August Challenge..

let us know if it works for ya'

As you read the re-blog below, you will find the kind of information that is useful no matter how "mature" you are in your practice....You will also find out why I subscribe to Rich Schiffer's BLOG!  Here, Rich offers a comparison of common marketing practices, and how they might differ when marketing a unique property...for those of us who work in the eco-friendly market, the applications are right on!

I have a pal over in Vancouver, Washington...He is a member of a Group I formed at Active Rain a couple of years ago...the Eco-All-Stars. While I have never met him in person, each time I read one of his posts...I have to smile...maybe that's why I think of him as my "pal"..

.His name is Mark Hall...and recently he wrote:  "A green home is a home that minimizes its use of outside energy, minimizes the pollution that it expels, while maximizing the comfort, health, safety, and wellbeing of its inhabitants. Ultimately it is better for you, better for the earth, and better for your wallet....Doesn't that make sense?"

RIGHT ON! Mark....It sure does to me...Here's Mark's  full post...

I am thinking of Grandma today on what would have been her birthday.  Over a hundred years ago, having just graduated from Ypsilanti (Michigan) Teacher's College, my adventurous grandmother took an assignment in a one-room schoolhouse off the coast of Cuba. Sailing from Florida, she traveled by freighter, finally to arrive at her destination,  the Isles of Pines  .

There she joined a group of fellow Americans to lend her services to what today might be understood as an eco-community or eco-village. Ecovillages, according to Wikipedia are " intended to be socially, economically and ecologically sustainable intentional communities. Most aim for a population of 50-150 individuals because this size is considered to be the maximum social network according to findings from sociology and anthropology^[1] "

So there she was, a young woman ready to bring her energy to this community. Grandma was just one willing soul . But, here she appears today, (see phto) still exerting her delightful influence.

(Graduation photo. Jenni Blessing.My Grandma.)

Presiding over her one-room schoolhouse, where students ranged in age from six to sixteen, she focused on flexible planning, field trips, and a personal touch.These were Grandma's stock and trade. When I became a teacher, it was she who taught me these same tools. (With such tools, Grandma could have been a very special and successful REALTOR®. I'm smiling.) But what most set Grandma apart, and what I believe sets many of us here apart, was Grandma's indomitable and generous spirit.  It could inspire greatness in others.

The power of just one. 

The power of just one can reach out beyond the "small self" to touch others at the very center of their being. Possibly, this core is the locus from which we all can connect with the essential sense of belonging in the larger community of humankind.

So, I am thinking of Grandma today on what would have been her birthday. Her legacy of adventure and outspoken remedies created a space for those in her sphere of influence to open up their hearts and laugh out loud. In turn, that set the stage for making wise choices. ...  I like to think that we, each one of us, has that option. Through our singular power we not only can discover more of who we are inside, and what is most important to us, but can uplift those around us....for the benefit of all concerned...now, and a hundred years from now. 

Happy Birthday, Grandma. You still shine.

Two eco-communities in the Asheville, N.C. area that would have been of interest to Jenni Blessing:
Three Creeks and Hickory Nut Forest.

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Read  GREENOLINA'S  news http://janeanne.activerain.com/about mountain and valley  neighborhoods, real estate,  local  day trips, picnics, and  ecotourist attractions you'll just love.   Curious aboutgreen building, remodeling and eco-communities ?  ...Subscribe to Greenolina's  "Green Wheels" BLOG.   

__~o
 -\_<,                                       
(*)/'(*)    ..........      ............and always remember that " poets are soldiers that liberate words from the steadfast possession of definition." -Eli Khamarov  .......  We are in a sustainable  world, so grab hold of your Muse... dream that world... and make it happen!. .........................    .............

The Eco-Steward Firm, ALL Eco-Certified® Real Estate Consultants!  Copyright © 2008 All Rights Reserved
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