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August 05.2025
3 Minutes Read

Discover the Best Labor Day Weekend Events in Asheville, NC

Patriotic decorations at a Labor Day weekend event in Asheville.

Labor Day Weekend: A Celebration of Community and Culture

As Labor Day approaches, many families and friends in Asheville and Western North Carolina are gearing up to celebrate the changing seasons with an array of entertaining events. Though the calendar may hint at autumn, the summer sun still reigns, making this holiday weekend a momentous occasion to relish community and culture. From fireworks to food festivals, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy this weekend.

Sporting Events: Catch the Asheville Tourists

This Labor Day weekend, local sports fans can cheer on the Asheville Tourists as they take on the Hub City Spartanburg baseball team. Scheduled from August 26 to 31, 2025, at downtown Asheville's own McCormick Field, these games promise thrilling sportsmanship and an opportunity to enjoy summer evenings.

Grove Park Inn: A Hub of Relaxation and Family Fun

For those seeking relaxation, the Omni Grove Park Inn will host a plethora of activities from August 28 to September 1, including a Summer Sip and Shop event that combines great deals with delightful drinks. With live music and a renowned Labor Day Brunch Buffet, this historic venue is a perfect spot for families to unwind while embracing the holiday spirit.

Celebrating Heritage at Boomtown Arts & Heritage FestAVL

Asheville’s Boomtown Arts & Heritage FestAVL from August 29-31 is an exciting free festival perfect for cultural enthusiasts. With its roots dating back to Asheville's emergence as a thriving community post-Hurricane Helene, the festival will honor the city’s traditions through an eclectic mix of music, trail tours, and community activities. The festival serves not only as an artistic showcase but also a means of bringing together locals to rebuild community ties.

Bluegrass Beats: The Earl Scruggs Music Festival

Music lovers won’t want to miss the Earl Scruggs Music Festival, held from August 29 to 31 at TIEC in Mill Spring. This celebration is dedicated to the legendary banjo player whose “Scruggs style” transcended musical barriers. With over 45 bands performing, including notable acts like the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band and Alison Krauss and Union Station, it promises to be a memorable experience filled with vibrant tunes and workshops.

Apple Picking Fun at the North Carolina Apple Festival

The 79th Annual North Carolina Apple Festival in Hendersonville, running from August 29 to September 1, is a festival that has become a cornerstone of the community. Welcoming over 250,000 visitors annually, the event includes a King Apple Parade and a bustling street fair with local crafts, fresh produce, and mouthwatering festival food. It’s an ideal opportunity to connect with neighbors while enjoying the delicious bounty of the area.

Groovin’ on the Green: Free Concerts in Cashiers

On August 29, 2025, Cashiers will host “Groovin’ on the Green,” a free concert featuring the Gotcha Groove band. Part of a larger summer concert series, this event invites families to gather for music, laughter, and community bonding while taking in the last swaths of summer warmth.

Conclusion: Enjoying the Last Weekend of Summer Together

This Labor Day weekend in Asheville and Western North Carolina presents a perfect blend of entertainment, relaxation, and cultural appreciation. Whether you choose to cheer on the Asheville Tourists, immerse yourself in live music, or celebrate local traditions at the Apple Festival, there are myriad opportunities to make lasting memories. Gather your friends and family to celebrate this vibrant community and bid farewell to summer in style!

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08.05.2025

Homebuyers File Lawsuits Against Raleigh Realty for Alleged Steering to Lender

Update Raleigh Realty and CrossCountry Mortgage: Allegations Unveiled The recent legal storm brewing in North Carolina has cast a dark cloud over Raleigh Realty and CrossCountry Mortgage, as former homebuyers accuse the companies of running an alleged illegal "pay-to-play" scheme. Six lawsuits have emerged, claiming that Raleigh Realty compelled its agents to direct buyers exclusively to CrossCountry Mortgage, which supposedly funded half of the marketing expenses for the brokerage. These practices could be in violation of the Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act (RESPA), raising serious concerns over the integrity of real estate practices. The Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act (RESPA) Explained Understanding the implications of RESPA is crucial to grasping the gravity of these allegations. Established to protect consumers during real estate transactions, RESPA prohibits kickbacks and referral fees that may inflate the price of settlement services. If the lawsuits are proven true, both firms could face severe financial and reputational consequences, and many homebuyers could be left paying significantly higher costs for their loans. Details of the Co-Marketing Agreement At the heart of the issue lies a co-marketing agreement between Raleigh Realty and CrossCountry Mortgage that was initiated in 2021. While it was presented as a legitimate business partnership, claiming to offer web marketing services in exchange for monthly reimbursement, the lawsuits suggest that the reality was far different. Instead of creative marketing strategy exchanges, it appears that this arrangement created a façade for shifting business towards a single lender. High Stakes for Homebuyers The implications for homebuyers are dire. According to the lawsuits, many of the plaintiffs claim they experienced inflated interest rates and points on their loans—costs that wouldn’t have existed had they pursued more competitive options on the open market. Homebuyers often rely heavily on the expertise of their real estate agents, making it critical that agents remain unbiased in their recommendations. How the Allegations Came to Light Interestingly, the current cases are built upon discoveries from a previous class-action lawsuit from 2022 that involved similar claims against the two companies. In a meticulous review process during the earlier case, the law firm Maginnis Howard unearthed evidence that raised questions about the legitimacy of the co-marketing agreement. Industry Insights and Responses While both Raleigh Realty and CrossCountry Mortgage have stated they cannot comment on pending litigation, they have previously denied accusations of wrongdoing during the earlier class-action lawsuit. Some industry experts have noted that these allegations highlight broader issues within the real estate industry regarding ethical practices and consumer protection. As the market evolves, ensuring transparency and fairness in transactions becomes paramount. What Do These Developments Mean for Consumers? If found guilty, Raleigh Realty and CrossCountry Mortgage could not only face financial penalties but also lead to stricter regulations to protect consumers in the real estate process. As home payments and interest rates rise nationally, it’s increasingly important for buyers to conduct due diligence to avoid falling victim to potentially predatory practices. This real estate controversy should serve as a wake-up call for consumers to remain vigilant and conduct their own research when securing mortgage lenders. It underscores the significance of understanding the relationships between real estate agents and lending institutions.

08.05.2025

Understanding the Benefits and Drawbacks of Lender-Paid Mortgage Insurance (LPMI)

Update Understanding Lender-Paid Mortgage Insurance: A Deep Dive When buyers consider purchasing a home without a sizeable down payment, they often face the issue of private mortgage insurance (PMI). To mitigate this cost, lender-paid mortgage insurance (LPMI) has emerged as a helpful alternative, promoting accessibility in the housing market. In essence, LPMI allows the mortgage lender to cover the PMI costs while adjusting the borrower's interest rate accordingly. This financial structure can ease the burden on prospective homeowners, but it comes with implications that must be carefully analyzed. What is LPMI? A Simplified Breakdown LPMI operates on a straightforward principle: the lender incorporates the mortgage insurance premium into the overall interest rate of the home loan. For borrowers, this translates into a single monthly payment—combining both the principal and interest along with built-in insurance costs—rather than juggling separate payments for PMI. While this can streamline budgeting and foster a more manageable payment structure, prospective buyers must keep in mind that this arrangement often leads to a slightly higher interest rate than they might encounter with a borrower-paid PMI option. Pros and Cons of LPMI Over Borrower-Paid PMI One of the key selling points of LPMI is convenience. By integrating total costs into one streamlined payment, it eliminates the hassle of having to manage multiple expenses. However, such convenience comes at a cost. The upshot of increased interest rates means borrowers must contemplate the total financial impact over the life of a mortgage loan. In evaluating which option is best, pricing for potential borrower-paid PMI against LPMI's courses can unveil the smart path for financial health. A Closer Look at Costs Understanding costs associated with LPMI and PMI isn't just about individual payments; it's about long-term fiscal health. While LPMI allows individuals to postpone smaller upfront expenses, the increased interest may result in a more expensive overall loan. As a guideline, borrowers should calculate their expected mortgage interest over the loan's duration to see which option would allow them to preserve cash more effectively, bearing future interest rate contingencies in mind. Making the Best Choice: Financial Considerations The decision between opting for lender-paid versus borrower-paid PMI can significantly affect budgeting and financial planning. Homebuyers should assess their financial landscape: how long they intend to stay in their new home, their projected income growth, and their capacity for a sizeable down payment in the future. Additionally, interest rates in the general market can shift, necessitating a review of how those changes impact both types of mortgage insurance arrangements. Conclusion: Making Informed Decisions In conclusion, lender-paid mortgage insurance offers an alternative pathway for homebuyers looking to manage their finances. It simplifies the monthly calculation of mortgage payments while also offering flexibility to those who cannot afford a large down payment. Nonetheless, as with any financial decision, it is crucial for prospective homeowners to delve into their specific circumstances, analyze various scenarios, and understand how LPMI aligns with their long-term goals for homeownership. With clear insight into each option, buyers are better positioned to make educated decisions.

08.05.2025

Why Sellers Value Local Presence Over Price in Real Estate Choices

Update The Changing Landscape of Home Selling In the current real estate market, a notable trend has emerged: sellers are prioritizing local presence over the price when selecting an estate agent. According to recent insights from Zoopla, this shift suggests that house sellers now view an agent’s familiarity with the local community as a critical factor in their decision-making process. This development shines a light on the evolving expectations of home sellers, reflecting a broader desire for personalized service and community engagement amidst fluctuating property values. Why Local Presence Matters More to Sellers Understanding the reasons behind this trend helps illustrate its significance. For many sellers, having an agent who is actively engaged in their locality not only fosters trust but also ensures that properties are marketed to the right demographic. Local agents often have valuable insights about the neighborhood, including trends, amenities, and market conditions that can influence a sale. In contrast, price-focused agents may lack this nuanced understanding of the local market, leading to disparities in service efficacy. What This Means for Real Estate Professionals For real estate agents, this trend necessitates a reevaluation of their service strategies. Agents who emphasize a strong local presence can differentiate themselves in a crowded market. Engaging with the community through local events, sponsoring initiatives, or even being active in neighborhood forums can significantly enhance their visibility and trustworthiness. Meanwhile, those who rely solely on competitive pricing might miss opportunities to connect with potential clients on a deeper level. The Counterargument: Is Price Still Important? While the emphasis on local presence is clear, some industry experts argue that competitive pricing should not be dismissed entirely. In many instances, especially in a buyer's market, price can be a determining factor for sellers. It’s crucial for agents to find a balance that acknowledges this perspective while enhancing their local rapport. This dual approach could be the key to thriving in today’s competitive real estate landscape. Future Trends in the Real Estate Market Looking ahead, as technology continues to reshape how properties are bought and sold, local expertise will likely take on even greater importance. With online listings accessible to potential buyers at the click of a button, real estate agents need to leverage their local knowledge to provide value that digital platforms alone cannot offer. Home management platforms might integrate community insights as part of their services, further emphasizing the need for agents to stay connected with local happenings. Actionable Insights for Home Sellers For potential home sellers, being aware of these trends can greatly impact their selling experience. When choosing an agent, they should consider not just the fees and commissions but also how involved the agent is in the local community. Asking prospective agents about their local sales history, involvement in local events, and familiarity with the neighborhood dynamics can provide insight into their capability to sell a home effectively. Conclusion: A Notable Shift in Seller Expectations The findings presented by Zoopla highlight an important evolution in the priorities of home sellers, emphasizing the need for real estate professionals to adapt accordingly. While price will always be a factor, the rising value placed on local expertise suggests that fostering community connections and understanding local markets could define successful sales strategies in the coming years. For sellers considering their option, prioritizing a trustworthy, locally engaged agent may prove to be a wise investment. In this rapidly changing landscape, evaluating the local knowledge and engagement of real estate professionals is crucial for achieving desirable outcomes in property sales. Whether you're planning to sell today or in the future, understanding these dynamics will empower you in your decision-making process.

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