On Lake Norman with Eloise

Wildlife on the lake

2011-01-22T17:14:00.002-05:00

I feel blessed to be able to look out at this beautiful lake we call home, and see wildlife migrating - or living here. The beautiful great blue herons and hawks among them.

Gorgeous red foxes, who dash away before I can take their picture, along with the shy but awesome kingfishers.

My spirit soars with my winged friends.

Cold snap continues this month, so no kayaking yet...but I will be out as soon as we reach the 50's again.

See you on the lake,
Eloise

Dreaming of a White Christmas - and it appears!

2010-12-27T14:27:00.004-05:00

First white Christmas for Lake Norman since 1947!! Check out the photos (if you don't see them here, click on 'View blog' below, and that will redirect you to the full photo blogspot site).

It's a winter wonderland that is rapidly melting in true North Carolina style.
But it has been just cold enough to stick around, looking pretty for the holiday festivities.

We got probably 4-5 inches of the fluffy whitemess that compacted pretty fast. The only downside is the black ice at night (and early morning) from daytime melting.

I just love photographing log homes & tall pines in snow - and there is usually very little opportunity to do that, given how quickly our snow melts.... if we get any at all.

The beauty part, for this transplanted northerner, is the fact that melting usually occurs so quickly that you don't need to own a snowblower. All the charm of a fluffy snowfall, without getting ice blocks for feet while pushing a big red machine.

Happy New Year to all - let's make it peaceful, healthy and prosperous!

See you on the lake,
Eloise

2010-12-07T14:33:00.004-05:00

It might sound strange to talk about the beach when a cold wind blows over the lake. But at Lake Norman, it is only temporary. Wait a day or two and we'll be back to mild.

In fact, the beach looked fabulous just a couple days ago for a winter stroll. Couples and children and dogs were out kicking sand & having a ball. The sun was low & golden in the sky, getting ready to give us one of our famous vermilion sunsets.

Ask us how you can live close to this beach on North Carolina's largest lake? It's surprisingly easy, and never less expensive than right now.

In fact, I can help you get a great house for under $200K only 4 minutes away.

Now THAT would be great gift to give yourself: the gift of lake living, I can't imagine a better one.

See you on the lake,

Eloise

704.582.1312

2010-11-03T14:27:00.007-04:00

**** YES! You CAN build a custom home. Starting at an incredibly low $179,900 - complete.****
YOUR CHANCE TO CUSTOMIZE A NEW HOME - on about 3/4 acre just 4 minutes from Lake Norman's only public beach - gorgeous!

No HOA to pay.
The subdivision is Meadow Glen in Troutman, just off Perth Rd.
Low taxes and easy access to the lake at the State Park.
Just think - a new custom home on 3/4 acre close to prime commuting with a country feel - for less than 180K.
Many other lots available, many with streams running behind them.

Don't listen to the *nay* sayers: Yes, you CAN get a land & construction loan, and we have the financial contacts you need.
**NOTE: Builder will consider holding your construction loan - saving you $$$ in bank fees!!!**

2-story homes or ranch plans - available with many floor plans choices - add basements and/or bonus rooms, or not, according to budget.

Call or text with questions - for builder contact info or directions to the lots: 704.582.1312

See you on the lake - or just down the street in this pretty subdivision,
Eloise

Your Chance To See What This Builder Can Do....

2010-10-15T17:47:00.007-04:00

You may not be able to afford a waterfront estate like the one we have listed for sale...but you can come tour it for techniques and materials that could be used in a much smaller home.

The builder/owner, G&G Builders of Maryland and Lake Norman, specializies in using their high-end expertise in many different price ranges. This builder can build you a home for $179,900 including land...or he can sell you this beautiful waterfront home for $1,120,000. Either way, come see... to check out how good he is, and to get ideas.

:::9168 Fair Oak Dr., Sherrills Ford - in the beautiful Northview Harbour subdivision. Just call for an appointment.:::

We have many local area lots for sale that we could tell you about if you are looking to build soon. All kinds of price ranges. In fact, there is one next door to the house you will be touring - one of the last waterfront lots in Northview Harbour. We also have lots in Troutman from $28-$40K.

Of course if you want this waterfront home, we can arrange that too!

See you on the lake,
Eloise

Flutterbyes!

2010-09-04T16:51:00.005-04:00

That's what my sister called them whe she was a little tyke, and the name stuck. They DO *flutter by*....And the ones here at Lake Norman are stocking up on the nectar of my favorite blooms.

You don't have to plant butterfly bushes to attract our fluttery friends. There are lots of perennials that the pretty creatures like to sip from. The Monarch in the photos is sipping on a perennial called Leucothoe. It's a great southern plant, hardy for whatever winter does to us - loves full sun for at least part of the day.

Another good one for butterflies - though they were shy & vanished when I took the photo - is the only variety of lantana hardy for the Piedmont. It is Lantana 'Mrs.Huff', which has a very distinctive flower of multicolors. In the same bloom, you'll find random & delightful shades of pink, yellow and orange.

You can plant a small one from the nursery and it will grow nicely over the summer, feeding the butterflies, and then disappear altogether in the winter. Right to the ground. But don't forget where you put it. Because it'll be back in late spring - and each year, it gets to be more and more like a small shrub filled with a bounty of color.

See you on the lake,
Eloise

Feeding the (Humming) Birds...

2010-08-20T10:32:00.004-04:00

We have a hummingbird feeder hanging from a decorative hook just off the screened porch.
Right where we can see the amazing little creatures when they come in to drink. Love their little chirrup sound as they swoop in!

Don't buy a prepared mix - it usually has food coloring that the little guys can do without - plus making it yourself is cheaper and "greener."

The proportions are always 4:1 (water: sugar) I usually microwave 1 cup of water for about 35 seconds (enough to make the water hot enough to dissolve sugar, but not blasting hot).
Then mix in 1/4 cup sugar til dissolved. That's it!

You can rinse out the nectar bottle with plain water with a little cider vinegar mixed in (not soap).

Did you know that new research shows that a few hummers spend the winter in the Carolinas? So some people are leaving their feeders up. Read about it at Carolina Bird Club. They say we who live by the lake have a greater chance of seeing a few winter over.

See you on the lake,
Eloise

Just Peachy

2010-08-01T15:09:00.003-04:00

The essence of summer on the lake?

For me, it's the peaches from South Carolina. Delicate white peaches (careful, they bruise easily) and classic yellow peaches. So juicy you have to eat them over the sink, with the juices dripping down your hand. It's like eating liquid summer sunshine.
There's nothing like it, and you'll remember it with longing in the dead of winter.

At the lake, we have a direct pipeline to an orchard in S. Carolina. For a short season, each and every day, the ladies at a certain peach stand in Denver bring up the finest, newly picked golden gems right from their orchards.

The place is located on NC 16 (business route) across from So. Pilot Knob. You open the door to this little shop, and a wave of peach fragrance wafts over you and into your pores.
You just want to bathe in that fragrance.

$5.50 gets you a "small" sack of golden goodness, stuffed with more than 20 peaches.

Take some home & enjoy...and see you on the lake,
Eloise

Aww...shucks

2010-07-14T06:14:00.004-04:00

Lake Norman is more than just a lake.

Some of the people who live here still have farms.
Just down the street from our lake home, people lease farmland from another neighbor every year to grow the most awesome corn you have ever tasted. Juicy & sweet.

You know it's ready when their sign goes up by their garage: $3 a dozen.

The farmer's wife gave me a great recipe for when you just can't wait for dinner & have to try a single ear for yourself, as a snack:

Shuck the corn and roll it into a twist of wax paper. Microwave on high for one minute.
Butter it - or not. Enjoy!

So Many Firework Shows that....

2010-07-05T15:19:00.003-04:00

...I photographed a night scene on the shore instead!
Impossible to try to capture all those fireworks - and frankly, way more fun to lie against cushions in the bow of our boat & simply drink it all in.

There is something magical about being out on the lake at night.

So I have to tell you that the best possible place for viewing 4th of July fireworks is not a crowd, but drifting out on Lake Norman. At any one time we could see from 3 to 5 shows on shore.

Other boats drifted silently past - all we could hear was the swoosh of the water, the pop and crackle of the shows on shore.

Pure magic,
Eloise

Secrets of the Tomato Whisperers

2010-07-03T12:59:00.003-04:00

Hey Bloggerson the lake,

I can't believe this really works - but it does.

Hot humid weather makes it difficult for tomato blossoms to pollinate themselves - mostly because the pollen gets too sticky - it needs to be able to travel and waft in the breeze enough to reach other blossoms.

You know you have this problem when the blossoms drop - or just fail to start producing a tomato.

A horticulturist shared this tip with me - and I have tested it.
I have the ripening tomatoes to prove it - where before I had blossom drop.
I now have the dubous distinction of actually saying that I have performed reproduction on my own tomatoes....

All you do is this:
Head out to the garden in the early AM, before any heat has started to build.
Gently shake the plants, making sure that you are shaking stalks containing any blossoms that you see.

That's it. That's all. And it works.

Happy tomato shaking,
Eloise

GRILL, Baby, GRILL

2010-06-29T10:59:00.006-04:00

Who doesn't love grilled stuff in the summertime?

And grilling is not ALL about the meat.

I have a restaurant friend (Troy Gagliardo - at Gagliardo's Grill Express in Mooresville) who grills EVERYTHING. If you have never had lightly grilled iceberg lettuce with one of his dressings, ya haven't lived.

But most impressive are the roasted vegetables. He is the one who taught me how easy this is, using good quality olive oil and seasonings. And ya gotta season them - and he has a seasoning mix that is killer. It includes pepper, lemon, garlic, and other things that he prefers to keep nameless - but you can approximate it.

He grills corn on the cob, and he grills pizza. Eat his food to see how it's done.

Try it. I know you'll love it.

See you at the grill -on the lake,
Eloise

Blackberries and tomatoes...oh my....

2010-06-19T14:11:00.003-04:00

Ahhh, the bounty of summer. Not quite time for corn yet in NC, or Georgia peaches - but the (some say even more delicious) SC peaches are here, along with HUGE blackberries from Georgia. I just ate some that were the size of small hand grenades.

Then down a country lane near our log home are some small wild blackberries. I gathered a pint before breakfast.

Heirloom tomatoes have begun appearing at the Farmer's Market in Denver, where this AM I bought some fat purple & green ones, and some lovely, sweet yellow ones.
Immediately went home and made BLT's to die for.

Ahh, summer in the South - the local produce is both larger and earlier.

Kayaking My Stress Away

2010-06-10T16:15:00.007-04:00

Slipped down to the lake ahead of the thunderstorm. And into the kayak.

Wind was picking up. But it was still nothing like Monday when a cold front zipped in from the Northwest to refresh us.

Now THAT was kinda funky for kayaking, cause it was more like sailing: the wind pushed me, kayak and all, my body as the sail. Look ma, no hands, no paddles!- and I was down nearly to the rairoad bridge in a twinkling. What a great ride.

Of course, that meant I had to paddle back...

Waves jumping up the bow. Totally soaked.

God I love this lake,
Eloise

We're back - with a redesigned blog!

2010-06-05T14:35:00.007-04:00

Hello there -
After an absence, I am back - and have redesigned this blog. Hope you like the new format.

To the right, I have monthly newsletter articles on everything you might want to know about homes, from preparing your home for an FHA buyer (having things in good repair is critical) to staging and negotiating.

There will be fresh topics each month, interspersed with whatever beauty shots I happen to take on the lake ...and as you may be able to tell by my postings, that is one of my principal joys.

And as always, if you are looking for a home on or near this big beautiful lake of ours, it would be my pleasure to help you find a great deal. The deals of a lifetime are out there -and they are waiting for you!

See you on the lake,
Eloise
704.582.1312

Realty Executives Unlimited Real Estate Virtual Tours | Virtual Tours of Cornelius Real Estate

2010-02-26T17:00:00.001-05:00

Virtual Tours of Lake Norman Real Estate

Boating on Lake Norman Can Be Low-Tech!

2009-10-02T15:42:00.001-04:00

Okay, here it is. The biggest pleasure of living on or near Lake Norman:
I can't tell you the peace and pleasure there is in taking a non-motorized boat out onto the lake. You can sneak up on some great wildlife without disturbing them. I bring a camera in a ziplock bag, and can kind of float along and get a couple of wildlife shots while I'm out.

I can help you have this kind of lifestyle - whether the home is fancy or modest. I have some great suggestions on my website.
See you on the lake,
Eloise
Eloise D. Morano, Broker/REALTOR
Elose@LKNRealtygroup.com
LKN Realty Group

Birds on Lake Norman

2009-09-30T16:11:00.003-04:00

For those who love looking at wildlife - and doesn't that include most of us?? - it is great to live on the lake and be able to observe everything from Carolina chickadees & tiny hummingbirds to great blue herons. To watch a heron fish for his dinner is a sight to see. The one in the picture caught what looked (briefly) like a frog!

The hummer is enjoying the last of the nectar hanging near the house before leaving for the winter.....

See you on the lake,
Eloise

Live at Lake Norman...for the sheer beauty of it!

2009-09-17T16:55:00.000-04:00

This shot probably says it all. People love their views on this spectacular lake. And when the trees first start their very first s-l-i-g-h-t coloring (because of the cooler nights in Sept.), the views get even more spectacular. We have clients from Florida trying to move here for the lovely seasons - especially so that they can see fall in all its glory.
Yes, Lake Norman has seasons. But they are gentle.
This doesn't happen every year. but I remember one Oct 31st when I spent the entire day swimming from a lake island - yes, it was warm enough - and then getting ready for a cool night greeting ghosties and goblins at the door. Gotta love it.
Eloise D. Morano [Check out some of the great homes I could show you]
Broker/REALTOR, LKN Realty Group
704.582.1312

Logs Keep Their Cool

2009-08-11T15:32:00.004-04:00

Have you ever wondered why it is that log homes keep in the cool air conditioned air so well...and keep out the cold in winter?

A lot of it has to do with the tree's natural rings, which, any school kid can tell you, swirl around and around, deep within the log. You could think of it as any temperature transference getting 'short circuited' by those concentric rings in the log's pithy center.

A well-built log home should perform as well or better than brick or stone in energy conservation. As the builder of the home in the photos is fond of saying - you could build several stick-built homes out of just one of the walls of this home - that is if you wanted to mill all those logs into boards!

This 3/4 bedroom 2 bath home is on the market, by the way. Asking price is $319,997 .

The home's location is in a lovely country setting (eligible for 100% USDA financing) but close to all the major Mooresville amenities, which are only a minute or two away! Lake access only a few minutes down the street.

Affordable, newer-construction log homes are few and far between on Lake Norman.
If you're interested, call 704.582.1312, and ask for me,

Eloise

It's Easy Beng Green....

2009-06-22T10:18:00.003-04:00

...if you have the cooling effect of parks as part of your community. We've got a gorgeous Arts and Crafts style ranch for sale not only across from a park, but with all kinds of lovely amenities like pool and clubhouse as part of the community. Close to CATS transportation (the most elegant bus to Charlotte you can imagine commuting on), close to Birkdale Country Club and all the wonderful shops & restaurants in Birkdale Village, close to Lake Norman, and close to the best schools in the region! Asking price $245,000.

Imagine quiet nights on the deep rocking chair porch gazing at the greenery and hearing the crickets and frogs. Did I mention that it is a quiet street with no thru traffic? Or walk to the park with the waterfall. The location is Lake Norman's sought-after MacAulay subivision of Huntersville - the best of the lake.
I'll take you on a tour real time. Just call 704.582.1312. or email Eloise.

2009-05-28T15:49:00.003-04:00

Tip of the day:
Did you know that many property locations here in NC are rural enough that they qualify for a 100% USDA loan for the buyer? That is one of the special government loans you have probably read about. Here's the link a lot of people don't know about:
Check out the property you are interested in at
http://eligibility.sc.egov.usda.gov/eligibility/welcomeAction.do?pageAction=rbs
I have 4 homes listed in MLS that qualify for this loan: 2 in Denver and 2 in Mooresville. Several are log homes and one is a big brick beauty. All are located close to lots of amenities, so it is not as if they are in the boonies!!

Let me know if you want more info and see you on the lake!
Eloise
704.582.1312
Eloise@lknrealtygroup.com

Early Summer Blooms

2009-05-18T15:19:00.004-04:00

Wow, I have neglected you!
Can you believe the spring has already passed into early summer?

You can tell by the rose blooms, which are gorgeous. These are Knock Out Roses - terrific for blooming from spring into fall.

Nothing prettier than the beautiful scarlet blooms against the waters of the lake.

Get out and enjoy!
Eloise

Deep Red Spring Blushes on Lake Norman

2009-04-07T15:43:00.004-04:00

One of the most beautiful spring 'blooms' in North Carolina isn't a flower at all.

But it looks like it, doesn't it? These are the bright scarlet leaves at my dock, the new growth of native 'Redtips' (Photinia).

Many, if not most, redtips were killed off in the 50's by a nasty blight, and only in the past few years have hybridizers like Monrovia (big name plant breeders) come up with a blight-resistant variety.

You can still see very tall hedges of native redtips here and there, but I found these plants more than 3 years ago in Walmart of all places. Glad I grabbed them because I haven't seen them sold since. These are growing happily by my dock, and are my first bright harbingers of spring in the beautiful piedmont!

Eloise D. Morano, LKN Realty Group
704.582.1312 Call anytime...or email for your private showing of wonderful homes in all price ranges - there is a wealth of choice homes to be had in this buyers' market! Eloise@lknrealtygroup.com

Spring's a-Bloomin'

2009-03-26T13:28:00.002-04:00

More pea soup today, bloggers.

Fishing boats are only ghosts in the mist.

But trees are popping their blooms onshore, and happy for the moisture. Look at this redbud from yesterday during a slice-of-nice in the overcast.

See you on the lake,
Eloise

2009-03-18T16:13:00.004-04:00

Foggy out there this AM, with warmer temps over the cold water.
Trees and land masses were gulped down by the mist, and then as the sun began burning it off, forms slowly emerged from the gloom. Very cool. Ghostly and beautiful.

I am planting mesclun greens and nasturtium flowers today. I love adding the nasturtiums to salad - it's something I miss all winter and can't wait to see blooming agan. The greens and the nasturtiums like cooler weather, so there is a shorter window to enjoy them. They hate hot summer temps, but I coddle them as long as I can, in pots that get watered frequently.

Enjoy the lake,
Eloise

I thought it was spring,,but

2009-03-12T15:03:00.002-04:00

.....it's chilly on the lake and onshore today, & we are going to get cold rain for the next few days.
For the past week, we've had gorgeous weather - just yesterday in the upper 70's - and the boats were out! Fishermen and joy riders, just like the lead-up to Memorial Day. Awesome to see.
But we can always use the rain that is a coming...to water all the stuff I planted yesterday!

See you on the lake,
Eloise

Lake Norman Snow

2009-03-03T16:30:00.003-05:00

Just about every 4 or 5 years, there's a snow or ice storm here at Lake Norman - this one was a combo of both, including some "thunder snow", which is basically a thunder and lightning show while it's snowing. Our power was out over 36 hours, and it was windy as all heck from the northeast...but what a gorgeous synrise on the several inches of fresh white stuff. And since the camelias have already started to bloom, we had the rare treat of camellias in the snow. I love NC!

See you on the lake,
Eloise

Amazing Log Home could be yours....

2009-02-23T15:27:00.005-05:00

Kick back in a one-of-a-kind, Craftsman-style log ranch w/true waterview, set in an acre of woods. Genuine Old Hickory builder's model w/rocking chair porches & all the upgrades: granite, tile, knotty cherry cabinets, tung-oil finished hardwoods, stone fireplace, huge master walk in, big bonus w/bath over finished 3-car garage.

For your boat - LAKE ACCESS, day slips & boat storage at private Pebble Bay facilities.
Close to the new NC 16 for easy commute to Charlotte. Close to shopping & several great golf & tennis clubs. Call or email Eloise.

$475,900 - a great price, with great views of Lake Norman! And it's 20K BELOW appraised value.
Anyone who emails me from this blog, has me write up the offer to purchase, & successfully buys the house, gets $1000 in closing costs paid by me at the closing table. Make sure to tell me where you saw this home promoted, & ask me to be your agent. And the special offer is yours!

See you on the lake,
Eloise

2009-02-19T11:16:00.003-05:00

Dear Bloggers,

I have been so busy listing and selling real estate that I have sadly neglected you. Just know that it snowed here 2 weeks ago and was mighty cold for NC - but I think spring is just around the corner. I saw daffodils coming up yesterday!

Mortgage interest rates are due to come down again today, says my mortgage source. Closing dates are hard to come by quickly because of all the refi's and new purchases going on. If you have good credit, a job history -and especially - a downpayment, you are good to go and can get a great rate.

Keep the faith, good change is here. See you on the lake,
Eloise

LKN white squirrels, totally cool

2009-01-12T11:28:00.003-05:00

For all of your nature lovers out there - ever seen an albino squirrel?
Lake Norman has these fluffy whitish beasties on the islands that dot the interior of the lake, and apparently they have made their way ashore.

I spotted one that lives on the main shore, on a peninsula in Mooresville.
Luckily I managed to raise the camera in time as he darted along a branch.
He was fat and thriving!

See ya on the lake (though it is chilly enough for a wet suit today!)
Eloise

2009-01-05T11:50:00.004-05:00

Morning Bloggers:

You gotta know it's a happy New Year when you look at the thermometer, and it's in the 50's. Such a mild and gentle winter, compared to so many parts of the country.

Winter mornings on the lake are awesome, since the temps so often drop at night....After sunrise, you see the most beautiful tendrils & clouds of mist rising from the lake's surface and winding around the trees. Sometimes it's so thick, you can't see out at all!

See you when the mist rises,
Eloise

2009 is the Year of the Lake

2009-01-04T13:37:00.004-05:00

HAPPY NEW YEAR!
If you haven't already done it - make this the year you enjoy the lake lifestyle. I can point you to homes large and small, on or near the lake. SO... let's get you moved. Check out my listings, to the right. (To see the photos properly, go to my website at www.eloiseisyouragent.com )

If none of these is to your liking, hey - I can easily find more possibilities in your price range than you could shake a wet dog at! We have a wealth of tasty properties - better than anyone has ever seen.

I can set you up on your own lake property search website for free. Just email me and say' Happy New Year, Eloise - find my home!'

See you on the lake,
Eloise
Eloise@LKNrealtygroup.com

2008-11-26T16:34:00.004-05:00

Colder weather has moved in...I grabbed this shot (if you are reading this in the format that shows my photos to the right) as the cold front came in. Clouds and light over the lake can't be beat in a situation like this.

Happy thanksgiving, bloggers one and all.
I'll be watching for you weekend fishermen on the lake,

Eloise

Fall on Lake Norman :Awesome Panorama of Color

2008-11-06T12:39:00.006-05:00

It's the magnificence of creation, altering its colors every moment with the fast moving fall sun.

The leaves around the lake have peaked into the intense reds of dogwood, red maple, hickory, sourwood, and some oaks...punctuated by shouts of yellow and gold from other oak species, striped maples, and tulip poplars, with the deep green of pines and hollies. All grow taller here than in the northeastern states. A feast for the eyes.

I am not sure it would be possible to love the lake as much without the spectacular blast of color in fall....

Mornings dawn cool, even cold, down to 48 degrees. But by afternoon, it is frequently 70, calling for layers of clothing that you can throw off at midday. When morning rolls around again, the residual heat means that gorgeous cats paws of fog rise over the lake. They weave and crest around moored boats, past docks, and in front of spectacular foliage.

Rejoicing on the lake,
Eloise

2008-11-01T11:47:00.006-04:00

Something's going on.

Maybe people have just gotten tired of waiting, and of all the bad news.

Anyway, I just sold a brand new log home on 2 acres of land. The one pictured next to this post. Yes, in this economy. Yes, the sales price was a little less than the builder could have gotten a year or two ago. But not by a lot.

And I have been getting calls from other people looking - not just for homes on the lake, but in the lake area. I think I've spotted a new trend: baby boomers who are looking to downsize, pay cash, and not have a mortgage. About half of them want to continue working. I think that's a great new trend.

So, all is not the doom and gloom the media would have you believe. And this lake holds its value, even in the worst market anyone has ever seen.
Just remember: you are what you think and believe.
I believe this a strong area to live in, and that real estate continues to be a good investment going into the future. There are always people who want this lifestyle, and I believe always will be.

See you on the lake,
Eloise

Outdoor Living all year in NC

2008-10-18T15:36:00.003-04:00

Last night temps dropped, and it is chilly ( that is, chilly for here. In New England, my friends would choke with laughter at the idea that 'in the 50's' is "chilly"! But as I say, living here has made me a wimp, and proud of it.)

One of my favorite things about North Carolina is the concept of outdoor living - I know it's popular everywhere these days, but here you really get to do it. Pretty much year 'round. Thus the popularity of the screened porch.
And of course, the ever-popular outdoor living space with its stone fireplace and kitchen.
I visited a particularly beautiful one this week - a lovely outdoor patio and kitchen with a double-sided hearth that you can enjoy from the patio or from the screened porch "inside". Weather in the 50's is perfect for this, especially with our legendary carolina blue skies.

See you on the lake, or by the hearth,
Eloise

2008-10-08T14:14:00.005-04:00

Shadows are getting longer...and fall is in the air. Plus, of course, there are fewer hours of daylight. The hummingbirds are among the first to leave, along with big noisy V's of Canada geese. I confess to enjoying the last of summer over the last month, swimming and transplanting perennials, rather than writing in this blog ...

A lovely feature of lake lifestyle has to do with the glowing effect of lighted houses at dusk near the water. I think it brings to mind comfort and safety, even in these strange times. The nights are not as full of cicadas and peepers, bullfrogs and tree frogs - all of which make a symphony of sound during the summer. But there is a cold breeze off the water and there are lots of cracklings and rustlings out there in the dark woods - sometimes it's almost spooky when you sit in the dark on your screened porch.

People seem to be staying inside, not driving as much - the mood is somber as people wonder when the housing market will recover. As a realtor, I can tell you that we have some amazing lake homes available - and never again will we see these prices. So many people want to move here -that hasn't changed.

I love finding the best deals for people - so don't be afraid to make a little noise out there. Did you know that it is your right in NC to ask me to be your buyer's agent? And that it costs you nothing to do this? In fact, it means I will be your extra set of eyes and ears. It's statistically true that agents help buyers negotiate the best price possible 9 times out of 10. So don't go it alone. I can help.

See you on the lake,
Eloise
Eloise@LKNrealtygroup.com

2008-09-01T15:57:00.002-04:00

Enjoy the beauty of this weekend while you can...by the end of the week, the western NC Piedmont will be seeing some powerful wind and rain. Tropical storms often give us actual white caps on the lake, not to mention incredible rains, wind and thunder.

In the spirit of enjoying the lake while the sun shines, here (in my photos to the right) is our neighborhood great blue heron sitting on our dock roof, while a boat goes by in the background.

See you on the lake,
Eloise

2008-08-29T12:01:00.004-04:00

Labor Day weekend...and we are finally beginning to dry out from nearly a week of the tropical effects of Fay. It is a good thing to see the lake level high! Look at the photo to the right - this was the sunrise this morning.

There will be some beautiful swimming and boating today...

See you on the lake,
Eloise

2008-08-14T11:38:00.002-04:00

Real gully washers yesterday! But what a treat to see the plants drink up the water and the lake level look refreshed. And the cool air coming in from our covered porches is heavenly.

One of the best things about living on the lake - in any kind of home - is having a screened porch, where you can watch the rain, read, eat or sleep outside. It is the ultimate in luxury, and when I am advising clients I always advise them to look for a spacious screened porch. At least a covered one that can be screened later. We don't really have as many mosquitos as I remember back up north, but it is nice to serve food to your guests without any bugs at all, or the possibility of any.

One of the things that surprsies our northern visitors is that in order to be sure of this, the best screened porches are screened below the decking as well as the sides. Keeps any little buggers from crawling up and in.

Enjoy the cool air on the lake,
Eloise

2008-08-01T17:22:00.005-04:00

The air is fresh, the sky is that beautiful shade we call Carolina blue. It makes you smile just to look at it. The skies opened last night and we had a real gully-washer.

Lake Norman gets dramatic thunderstorms! I think the lake is still down about 2 feet, so the drought is not over yet.

If you have never heard rain on either a tin roof (common here), or a steep one with many peaks and vaults made for a log home, you haven't experienced the drama.....

See you on the lake (but run for shore if you see those massive dark clouds!)
Eloise

New listing of log home for sale $249,000

2008-07-11T16:23:00.004-04:00

Check out the newest genuine Old Hickory log home for sale in the Lake Norman area, just a short commute from Charlotte. Price is $249,000. Energy efficient, cozy, yet spacious. 1368 sq ft on one floor, with a walkout basement, and almost an acre of property. Minutes from the new highway 16 straight to Charlotte.

It's got one of those open plans everyone wants now, with a vaulted greatroom that flows into the kitchen and breakfast nook. The deck is a romantic spot for coffee or cocktails, and overlooks the woods. Below the main floor of the ranch is an unfinished walkout basement that's all framed out for a rec room, bedroom, bath, plus laundry room and workshop.

Minutes away from NC 150 to Mooresville and minutes away from lake access.
Call me or email me about this one!
Eloise

Log Home Goes Up

2008-06-26T11:24:00.004-04:00

Hey bloggers,

I've been out taking pictures around the lake. Several new log homes to show you. Here's one on a wooded 2 acre tract that's going to be completed soon. Easy commute to Charlotte because you take back roads and then the new NC 16.

See you on the lake!
Eloise

Blue skies....

2008-05-21T11:32:00.005-04:00

Today it's wall-to-wall Carolina blue - that deep blue sky that we are so proud of here. Memorial Day approaches...it's lake time, more than ever (not that it isn't all year!). But the holiday is an excellent excuse to sit by the water with a cool drink, time to swim or jetski, or take out the pontoon, if you haven't already. Time to grill everything, even breakfast, outside. Time to watch our famous sunsets. In fact, here's a shot of our neighbors heading out in their pontoon ... Are we lucky, or what?

See you on the Lake,
Eloise

#1 For the Logs at the Lake

2008-05-09T15:52:00.005-04:00

'Knock Out' Roses may not have a scent - but they are the showgirls of the lake. Real troopers, blooming from spring to fall, through heat and even drought. Love 'em.

And don't they look great with the log and stone??? These are the famous roses that don't require pesticides and fungicides. They aren't the high-strung darlings that hybrid tea roses can be - they're tough. Like the purple verbena you see planted here with them - another of my faves.
Big gold star to the person who developed these.

It's a beautiful day on the lake today.
See you there,
Eloise

http://www.eloiseisyouragent.com/
http://www.lknrealtygroup.com/

2008-05-04T13:33:00.004-04:00

It's not just the lake that is happy - the woods nearby are freshly washed, leaves have unfurled and are still that luminescent spring green.

Look at this vista. Great place for a firepit, too...and there's a deck and log house overlooking this pretty view. We have everything here at the lake - not just miles of water, but pristine acres of woods.
And hey - this panorama of hills and trees could be yours. Ask me how you can get this slice of nature for your own private vista, and I promise to share....Imagine kicking back and looking out at this panorama. (For those who don't know - drop me a line: Eloise@lknrealtygroup.com )

It is a great value and just minutes from boat access. Don't let the privacy fool you - it is also just moments from NC 16.

See you around the lake,
Eloise
www.eloiseisyouragent.com
www.lknrealtygroup.com

2008-04-27T14:49:00.002-04:00

The lake is happy today - you can smell how freshly washed the air is, and the plants are extra green with delight.

We had a soaker of a rain last night - tremendous bolts of lightning, and thunder enough to shake the house.

This morning the kingfishers are flying happily out of their burrows in the ravine next to us. They dig deep earthen burrows in the sheer clay sides of gullies, and emerge from these to fish. They'll have young ones in there to feed pretty soon now.

Anyway, they're zooming low over the surface of the water to fish, makng their distinctive clicking call as they go. Their sound has been compared to a rusty hinge, and I see why, since it is penetrating - but it's really a nicer sound that that.
There's one surveying the water from the branch of a tall pine as I write this, so observant but so shy he'll take off as soon as I get in camera range.

See you on the lake as the sun comes out,
Eloise
www.eloiseisyouragent.com
www.lknrealtygroup.com

2008-04-25T17:42:00.002-04:00

Hey bloggers, what you don't know about your scribe is that my log home is horticulture central. As a person with a Masters' degree in Landscape Design, I have redesigned many a client's yard, and my own is constantly a work in progress.

Plants are endlessly fascinating - I am always on the look out for new varieties or improvements on old ones. This is an old standby perennial that is tough as nails and blooms like this from April til sometime in fall. It wasn't bothered by last year's drought other than to hold back on a few blooms towards the end there.
Verbena. Butterflies love it. You can find it in a lot of garden places right now.

See you on the lake and amongst the flowers,
Eloise
www.eloiseisyouragent.com
www.lknrealtygroup.com

Greatest sign of hope

2008-04-16T12:02:00.001-04:00

They came today.
A hummingbird suddenly appeared at the nectar feeder.
Later, the female in the photo (his mate?)came for a drink.

I was looking out the window and saw a small furry of wings by the nectar feeder. That sight never fails to delight me. I hold my breath as I watch the first few sips. Does he like it? Will he stay? Or have I left the syrup out in the sun too long waiting for him, and the little thing will go 'Eeeeeuuuuuw' and fly away never to be seen again? (Yes, bloggers, I got my hummingbirds drunk one year, leaving the stuff out too long in the sun. They may have liked it though - or forgiven me - because they stayed. But that's another tale.)

I mean, it is always an act of faith to put the feeders out in the first place. Who knows when they'll arrive, and you don't want the sugar solution to start turning into beer out there.

The hummer took some log sips, then sailed past the window. I realized I was holding my breath. The sun was on his ruby throat, making it sparkle like a Disney animation as he swooped by,closer and closer, but too fast, too fast..... I just got the red sparkly swoop and he was gone. Oh, for a slo-mo of that.

What amazes me is the sheer brave determination and persistence of these little creatures: their tiny bodies beat the air for thousands of miles every year to return here. They somehow fly through winds and rains, elude predators, and arrive here to see if we might have a little sugar syrup so they can keep going. They don't moan and complain, they just do it.

Such beauty in that. And hope.

See you on the lake,
Eloise
www.eloiseisyouragent.com

2008-04-09T09:26:00.000-04:00

Morning, Bloggers and log-fanciers everywhere,

Take a look at this house - my newest listing is a sweetie pie of a place. It's a tight, 3 bedroom, 2 bath, energy-efficient log cabin on a state-of-the-art poured foundation and walk-out basement...built just a couple of years ago by the builder/owner. The highest electric bill he has ever had was $118.

Heat pump is new - one of those 98% efficient 2-zone ones - and the home's vaulted greatroom has an energy-efficient woodburning stove sunk in a stone fireplace. French doors to the deck in back look out at gently rolling hills and woods. To the left of the home is a lot that is being offered for sale with the house - and back when he bought it, it was tested and found to be buildable. The owner's idea is that someone like him would just like to have the extra land as a kind of privacy buffer. That's the side of the house where the deep porches are, so it has worked that way for him. There's a detached 2 1/2 car garage, too. The walkout basement is all plumbed and ready to be finished as a media or family room.

The home's location is moments from NC 16 in Denver NC - easy access to anywhere you need to go, and close to lake access points as well. The price is $289K.

I would love to make a showing appointment right from this blog!
Eloise@lknrealtygroup.com or onlakenorman@yahoo.com

Eloise

2008-04-02T13:20:00.000-04:00

Bloggers, I am proud to announce my new domain:
www.eloiseisyouragent.com
Check it out!

I have included a system that allows you to search out any kind of property you are looking for in North Carolina. Of course I am giving top billing to my company's listings - which you can also see by going to our company websites:
www.LKNrealtygroup.com
and
www.onlakenorman.com

See you on the Web...and on the lake,
Eloise

If you want this lifestyle, don't be afraid...

2008-03-30T15:30:00.000-04:00

Okay, I'm gettin' on my soapbox. Are you ready??

I have a seller client who is going to take his land listing off the market on April Fools' Day because he is convinced that the buyers aren't gonna come. I am trying to tell him that this is exactly when they ARE coming...the start of a beautiful NC spring, when everyone in the world, it seems, wants to make a life here. Yes, the economy has been struggling and people have been holding onto their money...but we are about to break out. I can feel it in my bones.

And of all places to be - the best is right here in NC. We have the growth - lord, do we have the growth - and this is but a hiccup in the grand scale of what NC will become.

You know what people will be saying in just a couple of months, don't you? 'Oh, I wish I had bought a place on the lake when there was plenty of inventory to choose from. If only I'd known then what I know now...'

If only, if only.

It's a cycle. folks; it's always a cycle. That's what makes the world go round. We will come out of it. We are coming out of it. We always come out of it.

The big picture? This is the best buying opportunity in decades in one of the top destination states in this great country of ours. I say: if you possibly can, seize the moment. Go for it, because this is one wonderful place to live.

See you on the lake,
Eloise

2008-03-26T14:40:00.000-04:00

Land Search 101

2008-03-07T08:32:00.000-05:00

Okay, bloggers....for those of you too shy to write a comment on the blog, here's a new feature:
Land Search 101! I have a photo here of the least expensive waterfront lot we can take you to see - gorgeous.

I have heard from a dozen people over the past 2 weeks who are looking for land that they can afford, meaning that it needs to be somewhere under 100K, and often under 60K. You're not going to get on the water for that, but I MIGHT find you a good waterVIEW lot.

I have a photo here of one that is actually waterview - imagine once the height of a house is built and you're looking out from there, and some trees & undergrowth are cleared! But it is not being marketed as waterview, because what do you want to bet - the realtors haven't walked it.

Well, that's where our realty group is a little different. I've walked this, and have taken a number of people out to see it. It s a great way to get the benefits of the lake, yet not pay such a high price (yet!)

Now, if you head away from the lake into the surrounding countryside, there are treats galore that await. Take a look at this beautiful landscape of fields and hillsides. There is a lot on this country road that is listed at less than 30K.

Let me take you out to see it. Imagine the value of this in the future - and all within a short drive of water access. The best of both worlds.

See you on or off lake,
Eloise

Great turnout for tour of log homes

2008-03-07T08:01:00.000-05:00

I think there is a great untapped desire for living surrounded with real wood. And I think we proved it by the incredible turnout during our log home tour last weekend!

We had a steady stream of visitors for a total of 11 hours over the two days. Those of us working it did not sit down once.

For myself, I took a total of 4 families away from the tour and on a tour of available land right then and there. Several people are thinking about their options now that they know there is still some land left - but folks, it is running out! I can still find you what you need - though if you want on the water, you will need a minimum of 325K for the land. That is the least expensive fine waterfront lot that we know about currently, and it is gorgeous.

Ask me about land - and have a wonderful day,
Eloise

Tour of Log Homes on the Lake is Next Weekend!

2008-02-24T11:08:00.000-05:00

Want to see what it's like inside a log home? Old Hickory Log Homes is Lake Norman’s premier log home building contractor, with 15 years’ experience in log home completions.

Next weekend, March 1-2, the public gets a rare look inside 5 of its custom log homes on Lake Norman, at Pebble Bay in Denver, NC. That's on the western side of the lake. You might want to call to tell us you are coming, because we'll have a hot beverage waiting for you by a roaring fire. Also, you will need directions - it's easy, but call.

In this year of renewed interest in natural materials, it’s a chance for the public to see the amazing variety, elegance and versatility of log construction. It's nothing like Jed Clampett's cabin!

Contemporary log homes feature rustic natural materials in almost any combination of log, stone, stucco and glass, with soaring ceilings and beautiful detail. Log is beloved for its versatility, but also for its ability to be a neutral barrier to extremes of cold or heat, blocking temperature changes even more effectively than stone or brick.

Hey, come on down! The public is invited for the tour & a warm beverage before a crackling fire. Saturday March 1, from 10-4 and Sunday March 2 from 1-4. It’s free; just call for directions to the starter location: 704.582.1312

Lake Norman: Famous for Sunrises, Sunsets

2008-02-15T13:12:00.000-05:00

Sunrise - an event on the lake. Free for residents.
Glorious purples, gold, apricot...sometimes even pink & vermillion tickling the tops of the tall pines.

It is one of the things that makes this feel like living in a vacation all year long.

I never bothered with sunrises til I moved here. Now I try not to miss them for the first time in my life. They are every bit as awesome as our sunsets. The photo says it all.

See you on the lake,
Eloise

Visitors make us appreciate our blessings...

2008-02-03T11:52:00.000-05:00

Just had visitors from Maine, where the snow is still hip-deep. Seeing Lake Norman through their eyes gives me a renewed appreciation for how blessed we are.

Here were their impressions, in order:

1. "The sun! Wow, it feels so good to have the sun on my face - it's so warm ! Is it always sunny here with such a blue sky in the winter?" [it was still only 60 degrees, bloggers - but of course the carolina blue was bright and goreous in the sky. I had forgotten how gray winter tends to be in New England.]
2. "The lake is so quiet and peaceful, I could stare at it forever."
3. "Oh - that's a heron! And there's a kingfisher....and look, an osprey!" [Later they got some great shots of our resident red shouldered hawk.]
4. "The pine trees are HUGE, and when they are rustling in the wind, they sound like surf."

They liked the train whistle at night as much as I do: is there anything more strangely soothing than to be all cozy in bed and hear the train rumbling over the trestle with its hooting whistle? It echoes, like all things on the lake - a resonant & haunting music. Makes the lake sound infinitely deep, almost like a fjord in Norway.

"Seeing" through someone else's eyes and ears is a wonderful thing...

Appreciating the lake,
Eloise

Cold Morning, plenty of wildlife...

2008-01-25T13:35:00.000-05:00

Take a look at the wildlife I spotted on this 20-degree morning. This hawk is a regular visitor. Her wingspan as she floats close to our huge lakeside windows makes her look like some kind of prehistoric bird.

Much of the wildlife is too shy to photograph: great blue herons fly past on lumbering wings, then land on a sandbar, to stand and stare for hours, stabbing fish and the occasional frog with their beaks... or the kingfishers that live in a nearby ravine, with nests they dig under tree roots on the red clay slopes. Birds in underground burrows is such a bizarre thought, but that is what they do. The kingfishers suddenly appear as flashes of blue and white as they skim out to catch fish.

There are a pair of foxes whose thick brushy tails look like something out of Walt Disney. Two mornings ago, they were standing on our (still green) lawn, with their tails held straight out, as they looked up at our barking dogs in the front windows.

A blue sky day on the lake,
Eloise

Snow and Ice '08

2008-01-17T10:49:00.000-05:00

Good snowy morning to you! You gotta love short North Carolina winters. Very short by Northern standards. January is really the worst extent of it.

And when snow and ice arrive, like today, most people hang it up and take the day off. Don't drive - stay home! I love it. Rather than the who-can-get-to-work-on-time-narrowly-avoiding-smashing-your car-into-the-next century, the way I used to live in the northeast. But really...the most civilized thing to do is hunker down by the fire, like people do here. Makes sense, doesn't it?

This morning, I saw a hunter out in his boat, with his retrievers standing in the bow. He was cruising along, occasionally shooting a duck for breakfast (or lunch). I watched him awhile in the binoculars. The dogs were having a ball 'helping' him lift an occasional duck into the boat.

Okay I am off to put on a crock pot of soup, and hope the electricity stays on. Fun, isn't it?

See you on the lake,
Eloise

Ahhh. Winter with only a light jacket...

2008-01-14T11:10:00.000-05:00

You know, not a day goes by that I don't think how great it is to live in a place where the water is is still lapping at the dock (not frozen solid) and I only have to wear a light jacket.

You'll be interested in the comments that have been posted in the last couple of days. Especially those of you either secretly wanting to look for land...or those of you wondering if you'd ever like to build a log home. Check out the comments under the Happy New Year post, below!

See you on the lake,
Eloise

Blogger on the lake wishes you a Happy New Year

2008-01-09T10:03:00.000-05:00

Last two days have been lovely and mild. The cold snap has broken, and we even had 70 degrees on one of the days. 60's in the AM. How fantastic is it to go out on your deck with coffee in early January? Well, okay, you don't stay there a long time, but still...pretty great.

I've set up a special yahoo email for those who don't want to just plunge in and join the blog (though I sure would like that, hint, hint) - and so far have gotten one comment. (BTW it's livingonlakenorman@yahoo.com ) The question was anonymous and that's fine - it was: how can you find land and then build when you don't already live in NC?

Quickest way I can answer that is to say that no matter where you are, as a licensed agent, I can set you up a personal web page that emails you your own private screening of properties that meet your requirements & desires. I am working with a couple of people this way now. One of them is in England. When you become serious about something, you probably want to visit NC to be sure of everything and arrange to close the deal. (And I don't bite, so come on down.)

As far as beginning the log building process goes, I can set you up with everyone you'll need to make your dream house happen.

If you're buying land, you don't need to relocate yet. Buy the land first, and begin planning. That's what we did.

Hey, Happy New Year. And remember that dreams CAN come true...

Eloise

Log home on the lake

2007-12-23T13:23:00.000-05:00

What could be more wonderful than being in a cozy log home in the rain? That lovely patter on the roof, with a fire in the stone fireplace and a nice hot cup of coffee...There could be no better holiday gift than being alive to enjoy this.

Maybe it's because it brings out the child in all of us - the delight in everything fresh and new. Our log home on the lake makes you feel as if you are in a treehouse. You can hear the rain pattering and sometimes lashing against the tall windows; you can see immense pine trees swaying in the wind. You can watch as each gust blows across the lake. It's immediate and in-your-face, yet you are safe inside.

The new breed of log homes are as cosy as the old fashioned log cabin, but very different in feel. A lot of people are surprised by that. Contemporary log homes are light and airy, not dark. It's the vaulted ceilings and walls of windows that make the difference. We designed ours to take advantage of the view, and since our builder is the only one around with the training you'd normally find in Montana, we could make the house any shape we wanted to maximize window placement.

Right now, multicolored lights glow on the iron railings and reflect in the puddles of water on the deck. A gift after months of drought.

A warm and wonderful holiday to all,
Eloise

Get ready to ask your relocation questions...

2007-12-17T11:21:00.000-05:00

Welcome to Blogging on the Lake!

For those who don't know, Lake Norman is North Carolina's largest lake with more than 520 miles of shoreline and more registered boats than coastal NC. Fed by the Catawba River, it provides hydro power to the Piedmont. A fabulous place to live - and hang onto your hats, northeasterners - the water never freezes and there is boating year round. Bizarre and wacky, I know. As former residents of Maine, NH, Massachusetts and Pennsylvania, first we were startled, then we were delighted to see boats out in December and January, and it will be one of North Carolina's cool little surprises for you, too.

As for me - I am Eloise, specialist in lake land and homes for LKN Realty Group in Davidson. Even our office is on the lake. My goal is to help others find their dream home in this part of NC. My husband and I designed and built our dream log home here - a goal that seemed impossible, even at the time we were doing it (it's a long story don't ask, don't ask) - but we achieved it. As a result, we know the premier craftsmen for log homes. But it doesn't matter what kind of home you want, I can find it. This is literally the land of opportunity.

It's an area rich with resources, and some relative land bargains can still be had for those who would like to invest here. I have the pleasure of working in a group of people so interested in land that we literally can find pretty much whatever you might want. This is hard to imagine for people from states where the land along waterways rarely comes available. I won't say things are exactly cheap here anymore - or as plentiful as they once were - but they are way more affordable than you might think.

So - especially those of you from other parts of the country - ask me your questions - about climate, life in a log home or on the lake. My hubby is a meteorologist, so I have the best in resource information there,too.

See you on the lake,
Eloise