<h3>From Serene Landscapes to Thriving Communities: Uncovering the Top Reasons Why People Are Relocating to the NC Mountains</h3> <p>&zwj;The North Carolina mountains have always been a haven for nature enthusiasts, offering a perfect blend of scenic beauty and tranquility. However, in recent years, these mountains have also become a hub for people looking to relocate and start a new life. Whether you&#39;re looking for a change of pace, a quieter lifestyle, or a more vibrant community, the NC mountains have something to offer everyone. From revitalized downtown areas and thriving art scenes to endless outdoor activities and natural wonders, these mountains have it all.</p> <p>In this article, we&#39;ll explore the top reasons why more and more people are choosing to call the NC mountains their home and what makes this region so unique and desirable. So, buckle up and get ready to discover the wonders of Ashe County, NC and this serene yet thriving region.</p> <h2>Shift towards remote work and desire for a change in lifestyle</h2> <p>One of the primary reasons why more and more people are relocating to the NC mountains is the shift towards remote work. With the rise of technology, more companies are offering remote work options, allowing people to work from anywhere in the world. This has led to an increase in the number of people looking to relocate to areas that offer a better quality of life, and the NC mountains fit the bill perfectly.</p> <p>In addition, many people are retiring and looking for a change in lifestyle. They&#39;re tired of the fast-paced city life and the constant hustle and bustle. They want a more relaxed and peaceful way of life, and the NC mountains offer just that. The mountains provide a slower pace of life, where people can enjoy the simple things in life and take in the natural beauty that surrounds them.</p> <p>The NC mountains offer a lower cost of living compared to many other parts of the country.&nbsp; This makes it an attractive option for people who want to live a comfortable life without breaking the bank. The lower cost of living also means that people can afford to buy bigger homes or invest in properties, which is not always possible in other parts of the country.</p> <h2>Access to outdoor activities and natural beauty</h2> <p>Another reason why people are relocating to the NC mountains is the access to outdoor activities and natural beauty. The mountains offer a plethora of activities, including hiking, camping, fishing, and skiing, among others. There are also numerous county, state and federal&nbsp;parks with&nbsp;trails that provide opportunities for people to explore the great outdoors.</p> <p>The natural beauty of the NC mountains is also a major draw for many people. The mountains provide breathtaking views, with rolling hills and lush green forests that stretch as far as the eye can see. The changing seasons also add to the beauty, with vibrant fall colors, winter snowfalls, blooming spring flowers and cool breezes in summer.</p> <p>For nature enthusiasts, the NC mountains offer an unparalleled experience that is hard to find anywhere else.&nbsp; People can immerse themselves in nature and enjoy the peace and tranquility that comes with it.</p> <h2>Sense of community and small-town charm</h2> <p>The NC mountains also offer a strong sense of community and small-town charm. The people who live in these mountain towns are friendly and welcoming, and they take pride in their community. This creates a sense of belonging and makes it easy for newcomers to settle in and make friends.</p> <p>In addition, the small-town charm of these mountain towns such as West Jefferson and Lansing, NC is hard to resist. They offer a slower pace of life, where people can take their time and enjoy the little things in life. The town of West Jefferson is&nbsp;full of quaint shops, cafes, art galleries, breweries, and restaurants, Also provides parks and is &nbsp;pedestrian friendly.&nbsp; Lansing is in the process of revitalization, and new businesses are locating within the town.&nbsp; Big Horse Creek, one of the major trout streams flows through the small town.&nbsp; It also boasts of a park along Big Horse Creek, a place to provide areas for picnicking and hosting music festivals. &nbsp;Both towns create a unique and charming atmosphere that is hard to find in bigger cities.</p> <p>The sense of community and small-town charm also means that people can get involved in local events and activities. This creates a strong sense of belonging and helps people feel like they&#39;re part of something bigger than themselves.</p> <h2>Accessibility to Major Cities</h2> <p>While the NC mountains offer a quieter lifestyle, they&#39;re also located within driving distance of major cities. &nbsp;Winston-Salem, Greensboro, &nbsp;Charlotte, Raleigh, and Asheville are all within a few hours&#39; drive, providing easy access to urban amenities and job opportunities.&nbsp; This makes the NC mountains an ideal location for people who want to enjoy the benefits of small-town living while still having access to the amenities and opportunities of a big city</p> <h2>Real estate market trends in the NC Mountains</h2> <p>The real estate market in the NC mountains has also been a major draw for people looking to relocate. The area has seen a significant increase in property values, making it an attractive option for people looking to invest in real estate. The demand for homes in the NC mountains has also led to an increase in new construction, providing people with modern and updated housing options.</p> <p>Despite the increase in property values, the NC mountains still offer affordable housing options when compared to other parts of the country. This makes it a great option for people looking to buy their first home or invest in property.</p> <h2>Tips for relocating to the NC Mountains</h2> <p>If you&#39;re considering relocating to the NC mountains, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, it&#39;s important to research the area and find a town that fits your needs and lifestyle</p> <p>This will ensure that you&#39;re happy with your decision and can enjoy all that the mountains have to offer.</p> <p>Second, it&#39;s important to visit the area and get a feel for the community. This will help you determine if the NC mountains are the right fit for you and your family.&nbsp;</p> <p>Lastly, it&#39;s important to work with a reputable local real estate agent who understands the area and can help you find the perfect home. They can also provide valuable insights into the local market and help you navigate the buying process.&nbsp;</p> <p>Our firm, Ashe High Country Realty, established in 1989, has been serving Ashe County and surrounding areas of the NC High Country, as well as the mountains of Virginia &nbsp;for thirty-three &nbsp;years, &nbsp;Our firm and Real Estate Brokers have earn an impeccable reputation&nbsp;of helping&nbsp;clients through-out the years.&nbsp; We would like to introduce you to our area and help you find that special place.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p> <p>Our office is located downtown, 7 South Jefferson Avenue.&nbsp; You can reach us&nbsp;&nbsp;by phone, (336-246-6348) even on holidays. Or contact us through our website - <a href="https://ashecountyrealestate.com">ashecountyrealestate.com</a></p> <p>In conclusion, the NC mountains offer a unique blend of natural beauty, outdoor activities, small-town charm, and a strong sense of community. They provide an ideal location for people looking to relocate and start a new life, whether it&#39;s for a change in lifestyle, remote work opportunities, retirement or simply to enjoy the natural beauty that surrounds them. With a strong real estate market and a thriving community, the NC mountains are quickly becoming one of the most desirable places to live in the country.</p>

<h2>This Mountain Home in &ldquo;<em>The Woodlands&rdquo;</em> Will Sell Quickly</h2> <p>This home, located between the towns of West Jefferson and Lansing, North Carolina&nbsp;is just a short drive from hiking trails, the New River, The Creeper Trail, music festivals, breweries, art galleries, a plethora of eateries from pubs to fine dining, shopping and so much more.</p> <h2>If privacy is desired, the acreage is just shy of 4-acres. &nbsp;&nbsp;</h2> <p>While taking advantage of the benefits of a neighborhood with paved streets, the homes in The Woodlands are spaced for privacy, and this home is situated on almost 4-acres, (3.993 acres.)</p> <h2>Open and Spacious Mountain Home</h2> <p>The home has 2,397 Square feet of living space having 3-bedrooms, 2.5-baths.&nbsp; The entryway, dining area and great room have extended ceilings and a floor to ceiling stone fireplace.&nbsp; The floors are maple hardwood throughout with the exception of the bathrooms, they are tile.&nbsp; The kitchen, designed with the chef in mind, is equipped with granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, gas stove and wood cabinetry.</p> <h2>Large Bedroom Ensuite on Main Floor</h2> <p>The large master bedroom ensuite is 14 x 22 with the connected bathroom recently renovated to include heated floors.&nbsp;</p> <p>There are two additional bedrooms, the downstairs bedroom is currently being used as a den and the second-floor bedroom with private bath is the perfect place for your guests.&nbsp; &nbsp;There is a half-bath plus a music room on the main level.&nbsp; The music room is a multi-purpose room and is perfect for an office.&nbsp; (High speed Internet, fiber optics is available.) The home has ample storage with large closets.</p> <h2>Two Car Oversized Detached Garage</h2> <p>Large oversized detached two-car garage mimics the residence in the exterior design with log wood siding and river rock accents.</p> <h2>Conclusion:&nbsp;</h2> <p>&nbsp;If you dream of living in an open and airy home where you can enjoy snuggling up to a large stone fireplace during a winter snow or a foggy autumn morning, this home will be sure to please those comforts.&nbsp; It has a chef&rsquo;s kitchen for cooking on those snowy winter days or preparing fresh vegetables and salads in summer from your mini-garden or the local farmer&rsquo;s market.&nbsp;</p> <p>In the warmer months, you will enjoy being outdoors on the back and front decks, watching the wildlife that frequent the neighborhood or the changing of the leaves in autumn.&nbsp;</p> <p>You will have 4-acres to roam on, build snowmen in winter, garden in summer &ndash; there&rsquo;s a multitude of things you can enjoy on this acreage.&nbsp;</p> <p>This home is perfect for a retirement home or a mountain get-a-way!</p> <p>Learn more about this <a href="https://www.ashecountyrealestate.com/listings/mountain-cabin-lansing-nc" target="_self">mountain cabin </a>at the direct link on our website.. &nbsp;We feel this home is so desirable it won&rsquo;t last long.</p> <p>Call Ashe High Country Realty &ndash; 336-246-6348 or stop by our office at 7 South Jefferson Avenue, West Jefferson, NC</p>

<p>The celebration of the New Year is a tradition that dates back centuries.&nbsp; People around the world gather to bid farewell to the old year and to celebrate the new.&nbsp; It is a time to reflect on the past and to look ahead to all the potential and possibilities that the New Year brings.&nbsp;</p> <h2>But Where did it all begin?</h2> <p>The ancient Babylonians are affirmed with being the first to celebrate the New Year&nbsp;around 4,000 years ago.&nbsp; Their celebration was a religious festival that lasted eleven days in which they paid homage by offering sacrifices to their gods and goddesses. &nbsp;The festival was held during the spring equinox, which marked the beginning of a new year for the Babylonians.&nbsp;</p> <p>The Greeks later adopted their own version of the holiday, calling it the Kalends, and it marked the beginning of their new year.&nbsp; The Romans then continued the tradition&nbsp;though they moved the festivities to the first day of January.&nbsp; This was done to honor the god Janus, who had two faces&mdash;one looking back at the past and one looking forward to the future.</p> <p>Throughout history, diverse cultures have celebrated the New Year in their own ways.&nbsp; In India, Hindus mark the occasion with a two-day celebration known as Sankranti.&nbsp; In China, the holiday is referred to as the Spring Festival and is celebrated with a four-day holiday that includes fireworks and family reunions.&nbsp; In Mexico, the celebration is a 15-day festival called Fiestas de Ano Nuevo.</p> <p>The celebrations typically involve feasting, music, parades, and fireworks.&nbsp; People also exchange gifts, make resolutions, and offer toasts to the New Year.&nbsp; Although the traditions may vary from place to place, the spirit of the New Year still is the same and has continued throughout the centuries in many parts of the world.</p> <h2>Here in Appalachia</h2> <p>Some of the traditions in southern Appalachia are forgotten but this one&nbsp;gets an honorable mention.&nbsp; At the stroke of midnight on December 31st. all doors and windows in the home are opened.&nbsp; The pots and pans are gathered from the kitchen and are pounded together making a loud noise.&nbsp; This custom was used to chase out the old year and bring in the new.</p> <p>One tradition that originated in ancient Greece&nbsp;was brought to America by the Germans, was the birth of a newborn baby on New Year&rsquo;s Day signified the rebirth of the New Year by announcing the birth by banner. &nbsp;This tradition is still practiced today in some areas of the Appalachian Mountains.&nbsp; In some communities, the first newborn on New Year&rsquo;s Day receives recognition and gifts from the community.</p> <p>The New Year tradition still practiced today by the entire southern region is the legendary New Year&rsquo;s Dinner.&nbsp; This traditional New Year&rsquo;s meal must have black-eyed peas, pork loin, collard or mustard greens. The menu may be accompanied by other foods such as cornbread and mashed potatoes.&nbsp; This meal symbolizes luck, friends, and money in the coming year.</p> <p>Today, many cultures still celebrate the New Year in diverse ways.&nbsp; Some use fireworks, some enjoy special meals and drinks, and some simply stay up late to welcome the new year in.&nbsp; However, they choose to celebrate, the tradition of the New Year continues to bring joy and happiness to people all around the world.</p> <p>New Years is a time of hope and optimism. &nbsp;Our TEAM at Ashe High Country Realty is looking forwards to new opportunities and new beginnings for 2023.</p> <h2>Happy New Year 2023!</h2>

<p>After experiencing a colorful autumn in the North Carolina Mountains, the leaves have fallen, the days are shorter, the temperature is cooler, and winter has arrived.&nbsp; It is time to bring out your boots, heavy coats, and extra layers of blankets.</p> <h2><strong>It&#39;s Snowing in the&nbsp;Mountains&nbsp;&nbsp;</strong></h2> <p>&nbsp;As you relax&nbsp;by your stone fireplace, enjoying the warmth of your home, it is time to grab some popcorn, cuddle up on the sofa and enjoy a classic movie or read a book.&nbsp; Outside&nbsp;the snowflakes are quietly falling and soon the trees will be covered in snow.&nbsp; What fun to watch the landscape turning into a winter wonderland.&nbsp; Not only is living in a mountain home when it snows beautiful, it can be incredibly peaceful, warm, and cozy.</p> <p>&nbsp;If you want to spend some time in the snow, you can take long walks and take in the beauty of nature.&nbsp; Winter may be dark and cold, but it can also be fun with all the activities the NC Mountains has to offer.</p> <h2><strong>Winter is the Perfect Time for Cooking</strong></h2> <p>Comfort food and is the perfect complement to a chilly winter day.&nbsp;</p> <p>From mac and cheese to fried chicken, biscuits and gravy, these warm dishes are sure to fill you up and provide a much-needed boost of energy.&nbsp; Not to mention all the delicious, sweet winter-time treats, like warm apple pies and freshly baked cookies.</p> <p>Invite your friends over for dinner and a competitive game of cards or chess.&nbsp; It is a wonderful way to enjoy the cold evenings.&nbsp; They will enjoy your comfort foods, too.</p> <h2><strong>Having Fun in the Snow</strong></h2> <p>Everyone loves to build snowmen.&nbsp; You, your family, and friends can enjoy a few hours creating a snow village.&nbsp; It creates a much talked about event in the neighborhood and is so much fun.</p> <p>The snow-capped peaks of the Blue Ridge Mountains provide a beautiful backdrop for skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, sledding and other snow-related activities. &nbsp;Spend the day at one of the nearby ski resorts.&nbsp; If you did not come prepared to ski, there are shops nearby Boone or Banner Elk that sell or rent ski gear.&nbsp; There is always something to do and fun to have in the NC Mountains.</p> <p>&nbsp;If you are looking for something a little less adventurous, you can take a leisurely stroll through the scenic downtown shops of West Jefferson or take a drive through the snow-covered countryside.&nbsp; If you are feeling extra brave, you can even take a hike up one of the many trails for a unique winter experience.&nbsp; And for those who just want to relax, there is nothing better than cozying up in a cabin with a hot cup of cocoa and watching the snowflakes fall.</p> <p>Winter in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina is an unforgettable adventure and one that everyone should experience.&nbsp;</p> <p>Ashe High Country Realty is in West Jefferson, NC.&nbsp; We offer a full selection of homes for sale in West Jefferson, Boone, Blowing Rock, Sparta and in the mountains of Virginia.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Celebrating Thanksgiving</strong></h2> <p>Thanksgiving is an important holiday in America.&nbsp;It&rsquo;s also one of the oldest.&nbsp;The first Thanksgiving took place in 1621 when the pilgrims and Native Americans joined together to feast and give thanks for all they had.&nbsp;What is so remarkable we as Americans still take inspiration from that day almost 400 years ago.</p> <h3><strong>Let us Give Thanks</strong></h3> <p>Thanksgiving is a special day to reflect on and celebrate what you are thankful for in your life&nbsp;&nbsp;This is true regardless of your background or culture.&nbsp;During Thanksgiving, families and friends will come together to give thanks to the special people who have impacted your life in significant ways, such as family members and friends.&nbsp;In fact, it&rsquo;s a celebration that reflects the values of gratitude, compassion, and generosity.&nbsp;Thanksgiving is also an opportunity to be grateful for the abundance and bounty in your life</p> <p>Whether you have a big family, small group of friends, or are part of a small team at work &mdash; there is just something about Thanksgiving that brings everyone together.&nbsp;It is not only filled with laughter and joy but also serves as a much-needed break from routine.&nbsp; Friends and family get to spend time together in a relaxing environment as they share delicious food, conversation, and time together.</p> <h3><strong>What Are the Traditional Foods of Thanksgiving?</strong></h3> <p>Thanksgiving is a time to indulge in delicious food, which makes it a popular holiday.&nbsp;The menu usually includes turkey with stuffing, mashed potatoes, and pumpkin pie.&nbsp; Families often choose a different menu every year, so they never get tired&nbsp;of these classic dishes.&nbsp;Turkey is the main course of choice at Thanksgiving.&nbsp;This traditional meal is roasted and seasoned with herbs that vary depending on the family recipe.&nbsp; Mashed potatoes are a staple at Thanksgiving.&nbsp; These creamy, rich potatoes are perfect with any main course.</p> <h3><strong>Cook Something New for the Main Course</strong></h3> <p>If mashed potatoes are perfect with the main course, include a green bean casserole, sweet potato casserole, cranberry salad, and macaroni and cheese.&nbsp; Plain old turkey with gravy is expected at Thanksgiving but can get tiresome after a while.&nbsp; Why not try something new this year? How about a Hawaiian-inspired turkey with pineapple and coconut? &nbsp;You can also try something a little different,&nbsp;&nbsp;Walnut and mushroom risotto with a standing rib roast will not disappoint.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p> <p>If you want to go with a classic dish but still stand out, try a cheese souffl&eacute;. Although, cheese souffl&eacute;s are a bit more challenging to make, thery are&nbsp;worth the effort.</p> <h3><strong>Don&#39;t&nbsp;</strong><strong>Forget Dessert!</strong></h3> <p>Turkey and Friends might be the main course, but dessert is the perfect way to end the meal.&nbsp; There are plenty of different desserts to choose from, and you can even make your own special recipe if you want to go that route. &nbsp;Pumpkin Pie is the traditional dessert but can be made with many alternatives such as a cream cheese topping paired with a nice hot cup of coffee.&nbsp; &nbsp;A cranberry sauce cobbler might be a bit unusual, but it&#39;s tasty and festive. &nbsp;Cranberry bread - This can be served as either a dessert or bread with the main course.&nbsp; It&#39;s extremely easy to make and tastes incredible!</p> <p>After enjoying a delightful dinner with filling food, interesting conversations and memories of people and events of years gone by, it is time to retire to the TV room for those who love football.&nbsp; Time for naps for the children while others enjoy being together to discuss events in our current lives.&nbsp;</p> <h3><strong>What teams are playing football on Thanksgiving Day?</strong></h3> <p>Buffalo Bills at Detroit Lions: 12:30 p.m. ET.</p> <p>New York Giants at Dallas Cowboys: 4:30 p.m. ET.</p> <p>New England Patriots at Minnesota Vikings: 8:20 p.m. ET.</p> <p><strong>Concluding thoughts!</strong></p> <p>There are so many things to be thankful for in this world, and Thanksgiving is a day to reflect on those things.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p>