Out of Thin Air (again and again)
Every couple of years, I like to check up on the US Debt Clock, an interesting site to visit that provides more than just a snapshot of our growing national debt but other obligations, income and expenses along with personal debt figures. I recently picked up my copy...
Power Outage In Moore County, NC
As of this writing much of Moore County, North Carolina is without electricity. The temperature at the moment is hovering around thirty degrees. An estimated 30,000 people are without power in their homes, their businesses, their schools, gas stations, grocery...
Nolichucky River Listings
We just recently listed three unique properties on and overlooking the Nolichucky River. The Nolichucky is a very prominent river that is formed in northern Mitchell and Yancey Counties from the confluence of the N. Toe and Cane Rivers. The result is a large river...
60 Minutes Of Prepping
Last night’s episode of 60 Minutes on CBS had a segment on the “survival condo” and prepping trend. These kinds of shows are very often slanted to present “preppers” as a fringe society full of conspiracy theorists with crazy setups. ...
Is A Bunker For You?
Is living in an underground bunker or shelter for you? To most of us, the thought of living in an enclosed concrete bunker in the middle of nowhere sounds crazy, but little by little folks are taking notice and making the move. Vivos xPoint is just such a place. ...
Cottage Home on Six Acres
For several years, we had the privilege of assisting a property owner in the sale of her 100+ acre land holdings north of Marshall, NC. These included several homesites, a couple of modest homes and a stunning 58 acre farm with pastures, cabins, etc. Now that all...
New Off-Grid Listing!
Wanting to be off-grid, but unsure as to how to go about doing it? Click here to check out this amazing property near Lake Hiawassee and Murphy, NC. We just listed this 9.41 acre property with charmingly built two bedroom, two bath home with redundant systems. ...
New 65 Acre Farm Listing
We’ve been waiting four years to list this wonderful 65 acre farm, and the time is finally here. Will be coming to market in a matter of days at the price of $549,900. This one is in northern Mitchell County at the “end of the road”, yet easily...
Is Homesteading For You?
Is homesteading for you? Real estate for homesteading or prepping is a different world than that which most folks envision. Very often I get a call from someone who recognizes the frailties of our society and sees its cracks getting wider. They live in the suburbs...
Taffie Ridge Farm Back on Market
The Taffie Ridge Farm is back on the market. This property is delightful 22 acre farm in northern Buncombe County just five minutes to I-26 and less than ten minutes to the town of Weaverville. Weaverville has everything you would want: a walkable downtown with...
Got Food?
Have written a couple times recently about the gradual downward spiral we’ve been witnessing regarding productivity and supply chains here in the U.S. Still hard to imagine that we could be turning into Venezuela, but its happening on a slow boil with most...
The Perfect Property
The Perfect Property? It doesn’t exist. One thing about real estate, even in “cookie cutter” subdivisions, every property is unique in some manner. In tract built housing, the differences are minimal, but when it comes to rural land, farms,...
Are Properties Overpriced?
For quite a while, real estate agents (myself included) have held the opinion that property values are inflated. After all, how does one explain the incredible price increases over the past two years and bidding wars we see on single family homes in some markets? I...What’s Happening With The Market?
What’s happening with the market? I’m getting that question a lot along with its cousin, “What do you think is going to happen to the market?” Now if I could accurately answer that, I wouldn’t be our schlepping real estate would I? ...
Top Producer (Again)
As many of you know, in addition to owning my own firm of Retreat Realty, Ltd., I’m also an affiliate with Keller Williams Professionals, the largest real estate brokerage company in the United States. Historically I’ve operated on my own as Retreat...
The Best Currency in Ukraine
A member of our church is personal friends with a gentleman named Alex in Ukraine with whom he’s come to know after having visited Ukraine on numerous mission trips. Over the past two weeks this friend has been forwarded video reports from Alex showing what...
Uncertain Times
Just when it appeared we were through the pandemic and returning to the “new normal”, whatever that is, we’re now witnessing atrocities in Eastern Europe involving a nuclear superpower that is threating to actually use nuclear weapons. My wife asked...
Where Is Everyone?
Strange days are these. Went into a Hardee’s restaurant the other day and saw the accompanying sign. Not uncommon these days. But where has everyone gone that use to hold down these jobs? Why is it that we see help wanted signed announcing signing bonuses? ...
Merry Christmas!
I see its been six weeks since my last post. Just been a busy fall season and now Christmas is upon us. So Merry Christmas to you all and thank you to everyone who allowed me the privilege of assisting in the sale or purchase of your properties. Its been quite a...
Mini Farm Near West Jefferson
If you’re looking for a small farm with income potential or a family compound, this one could be for you. Situated approximately 25 minutes to the happening town of West Jefferson, and not too far from Boone, this property offers 38 acres of gently laying land...
Update on a Client’s Purchase
We all love a success story, don’t we? Late last year, I had the good fortune of representing the sellers and buyers of the former Clear Creek Ranch, a classic dude ranch located near the base of Mt. Mitchell, highest peak east of the Rockies. Sean and Heather...
A Full Featured Farm
If looking for an exceptionally well maintained and full feature farm, you simply must see this one. Situated just twelve minutes from the town of Marion, this new listing features 43+ total acres of which 28+/- are open fields and fenced pastures. A paved state...
New Listing With River Access
We recently listed a 72 acre parcel north of Asheville having full legal access to 1,200′ of frontage on the Big Rock Creek (great trout fishing), two ponds, a gated covered bridge entrance and outstanding infrastructure. This acreage was originally to be...
The Unraveling
In a post I wrote last year I stated that the “End of the World as We Know It” had already come upon us without realizing it. Indeed it had, and it continues. All it takes is one trip to any big box retailer or going out to eat and you’ll see what...
A Timely Update
It has been a while since I’ve written about the book, “One Second After” that started me on the path of self-sufficiency learning (i.e. “prepping”) resulting in changing the focus and name of my firm to Retreat Realty, Ltd. But given...
Waterfall Hideaway
We just listed this amazing 181 acre property with a Waterfall Hideaway. Located in Wilkes County between Hickory and Boone, this very private estate offers not one, but two full cabins along with two fully built basement foundations including septic systems,...
Another Outstanding Farm Listing
Here is a wonderful family farm northwest of Asheville in rural Buncombe County. We just listed this 22 acre farm that features approximately 20 acres of cleared fields with end of the road privacy. Enjoy sweeping views of the distant mountains from the Main House...
Totally Turn-Key Mini Farm Listing
We just listed a totally turn-key mini farm in the Brevard, NC area. When we say “turn-key”, we mean just bring your toothbrush and get to farming! This is one of the most complete farm operations we’ve had the privilege of listing. This farm has...
Inflation Creek Coming Your Way
While in Charlotte recently visiting family, we went to lunch at a local restaurant that’s been around for decades. Upon sitting down at the table, we were greeted with the note in the attached photo informing us that due to rising food costs, rather than...
Are You Ready?
Are you ready? The times, they are changing and now more than ever its important to have a backup plan because life as we knew it just 24 months ago is over. We’re in a new environment full of restrictions, fear and civil discord. Its been a “slow boil” for a while...
New 404 Acre Listing With Riverfrontage
We are pleased to release this incredible 404+ acre riverfront property to the market. This is truly a rarity in that the property combines three miles of riverfront, 90+ acres of field and pasture and exceptional high elevation building sites looking down on both. ...
Coming Soon: 404 Acres with Three Miles of River Front
In the next two weeks, we will be launching the marketing for a most unique trophy property. Situated in the mountains of Yancey County due north of Asheville, this property features 405 acres of pristine farmland and mountain land. There are approximately 85+/-...
In The News Again
Every now and then I’m interviewed by a radio station, newspaper or magazine. This time it was the television station, WRAL out of Raleigh, NC. The producer reached out asking about my experience in helping preppers locate real estate in the mountains. Click...
What Good Is A Realtor?
Today, nearly everyone looking for real estate starts the search online. Additionally, several new limited service firms have popped up that promote listing property without the aid of a real estate agent. The pitch is that real estate agents don’t earn what...
Where’s The Gas?
Where’s the gas? Its not here. The accompanying photo shows our local Shell station with vehicles lined up in all directions with drivers waiting to top of their tanks. Why? Because the Colonial Pipeline which provides much of the eastern seaboard with its...
Top Agent 2020
As you know, I’m an affiliate of Keller Williams Professionals, the largest real estate brokerage in the United States. I could certainly operate solely as Retreat Realty, Ltd. which is my primary firm, but having the affiliation with KW allows some added...
Waterfall Property With Pastures
We just listed a most amazing land parcel that has an abundance of water, pastures, views, privacy and ease of access. This is a 97 acre property that includes the Grassy Creek Falls, a well known iconic waterfall in western North Carolina. Not only that, this...
Sustainable Mini Farm
We had the pleasure of recently touring this amazing mini-farm located north of Asheville in Madison County. It is listed by an affiliate agent of ours with Keller Williams, but is such a perfect fit for our subscribers that we simply had to get the word out. Click...
A Thank You Note
Receiving a thank you note from a client is always a highlight of my day. For those who have met me in person, you may have seen the three ring binder I carry with me containing magazine articles about me, but most importantly are the dozens of thank you notes and...
Peace Of Mind In The Mountains
We’ve been running ads for months in the Epoch Times, the fastest growing independent newspaper in the nation and the response has been very strong. Folks are looking for a backup plan as safety and normalcy in the larger metro areas crumbles. So our mountains...
A New Mini-Farm Listing Coming
If you’ve followed my website for a while, you’ll notice that inventory is low, and much of the current inventory carries pretty high price tags. Granted, you’re getting a lot for the dollar with these properties, but the prices are simply out of...
Just A Little Farmland
Two years ago, I brokered a 761 acre tract and thought that was BIG. Actually, it was very large for this market. The buyer was Tim Sweeney, billionaire creator of the world’s most successful video game, Fortnite. But that was a drop in the bucket for him. ...
Armchair Agents
I wrote part of this post nearly two years ago, but its worth publishing again. We’ve all heard of “armchair quarterbacks”, but what about armchair agents? I’ve been involved in real estate since August 1987 when I started as an apprentice...
New 355 Acre Listing with River Frontage
We are starting off the new year with a bang! Check out this 355 acre property with approximately 1,000′ of easily accessible frontage on the Cane River. Situated just ten minutes south of the up and coming mountain town of Burnsville, this property has easy...
A Thank You And Some Recognition
We recently handled the listing and sale of the Clear Creek Dude Ranch at the base of Mt. Mitchell. This property had previously been listed without much showing activity. The sellers stated that in the course of a year’s listing with another firm, it was only...
New Listing With Pond and Creeks
This new listing with pond and creeks is a nature lover’s paradise. Its easily accessible, yet totally private and free of restrictions. Situated south of the Town of Black Mountain near Lake Lure. The ten acres lay gently and feature two year round creeks,...
Giving Thanks
Despite the craziness of this year, we can all find many things for which to be thankful. Gratitude isn’t limited to only the good times when we have plenty. I’ve learned to be content and grateful in all times: in abundance and in lack. I’ve...
Cash R.I.P
There has been a movement for many years to do away with cash in favor of a cashless society. Some of the arguments have been the expense of maintaining paper currency (it wears out and needs replacing), security against counterfeiting, the freedom it gives to...
“Off Grid” In Comfort
This is one of the most comfortable “off-grid” sustainable living bugout properties you’ll ever find. I say “off-grid” because it is actually tied into the power grid at the moment, but has the ability to become totally...
Water Is Necessary
Water is as necessary for our survival as oxygen, so what plans do you have in the event your water supply is compromised? Here in the U.S. we expect that every time we turn on the faucet, clean water will pour out. Fortunately that’s pretty much true, but ask...
Top Agent
I was recently nominated for inclusion in “Top Agent Magazine” and it just came out for November. This is an industry magazine with editions specific to each state. Its nice to be included, but it holds little water in my book. Its actually more of a...
New Mini Farm Listing Outside Asheville
This mini farm outside Asheville is a real charmer. Its in a beautiful rural part of the county featuring a fully refurbished 1910 farm house. Has gardens, orchard, creeks, chicken coop, etc. The house is full of original character, but has all new mechanicals,...
Moving Day
Hard to believe its been a month since my last posting, but things have been busy. With calls from all over the country, its apparent the “world is on fire” in some places and folks are looking to escape. What better area than the mountains of western...
New Farm Listing
We are pleased to have just listed this beautiful 43+/- acre farm in northwestern Buncombe County. Located approximately 25 minutes to west Asheville, this farm is in a rural farming community in a very private, end of the road setting. This listing is as much about...
New Waterfall Property
We just listed this beautiful 58 acre property with stunning 40′ waterfall. Located in Buncombe County just ten minutes south of the Town of Black Mountain, this property is easily accessible via a publicly maintained paved road and offers excellent topography...
TEOTWAWKI
What is TEOTWAWKI? Notwithstanding the hit song of this name by the group R.E.M., among the prepper population, this stands for “The End Of The World As We Know It”. In almost all doomsday books and such, this event is seen as coming in a flash via an...
Ranch Listing At Mt. Mitchell
Just picked up a ranch listing at Mt. Mitchell in Yancey County (just north of Asheville). If you’re into horses or wanting a complete large scale retreat, this is one to consider. The property has been successfully operated for decades as Clear Creek Ranch...
Why A Bugout Property?
With the world going more crazy every day, why not have a bugout property? After all, you have life insurance, home owners insurance, disability insurance, yet you hope to never cash in on them, right? Think of a bugout or prepper property as an insurance policy,...
Full Service
Full service, that’s what I’m about. There’s a public perception that all real estate agents do is drive people around, walking through a few houses, then collecting a big ol’ commission for not doing much of anything. Well, 99% of the time,...
Another Award
Sometimes I’m asked why I affiliated my own firm, Retreat Realty, Ltd. with Keller Williams Professionals, and there are a few reasons. One of which is that in addition to good technical support and training, it also provides me a platform on which to compare...
Finally Ready?
Is now the time to finally get that mountain retreat? Regardless of your ideology, there is great uncertainty in our world (COVID-19 restrictions, civil unrest, cities burning, North and South Korea at the most threatening they’ve been since the 50’s, a...
New 38 Acre Listing Near Marion
Looking for an all inclusive property that won’t break the bank, try this new 38 acre listing near Marion. Located in the foothills just before climbing up the Blue Ridge Escarpment into Asheville, this property is private yet easy to get to if you know where...
A Contract, A Sale and A Letter
While much of the economy has shut down, real estate searches for bugout properties, off the grid properties and prepper properties has kept me busy. In the past two weeks, I’ve written two more purchase agreements and closed two more transactions with several...
Four Years On
A client just sent me a link to an online article in which the author referenced his current escape from the Washington, D.C. lockdown to his bugout property. As it turns out, the author interviewed me four years ago about the subject of disaster preparedness and...
Out Of Thin Air
With so many headlines about the recent $2.2 trillion government bailout for industry and individuals, I keep asking the question “From where is this money coming?” Its not as if our federal government has a bank account somewhere with trillions of...
In The News Again
Once again, I find myself in an international news outlet on the subject of prepping and the affects of COVD-19 on real estate. Just today, the Thompson Reuters Foundation News (an affilate of the Reuters Wire Service) ran an article titled “Amid Coronavirus...
Prepping 101
Beginning tonight at 8 PM Eastern, Forrest Garvin of Preppernet.com will be hosting a live stream on Facebook titled “Intro to Preparedness: A Step By Step Plan”. Preppernet.com is the largest network of preparedness minded folks in the world with a...
On The Air
I was interviewed yesterday by John Howell on the John Howell Show broadcast on WLS-AM out of Chicago. It was the second time in as many months that I’d been on the show. The first was the initial impact of corona virus on prepping real estate. The second was...
On The Radio Again
Was contacted by WLS-AM out of Chicago for a return interview on the John Howell talk show. It will be broadcast live on Thursday the 19th at 5 PM EST. You can listen online by going to the links. They want to get an update from me regarding trends in prepping real...
Stop The Madness!
No, we’re not talking about college basketball and the NCAA, THAT March Madness is already baked and done. Disappointing for so many as conference after conference and events are cancelled. I understand the thinking, but I also am still of the mindset that...
Top Agent!
Though my primary firm is Retreat Realty, I’m also an affiliate of Keller Williams Professionals which has over 400 agents in the greater Asheville area. Today was our annual awards banquet with several hundred in attendance. I’m pleased to announce that...
Sold Another Property Despite The Virus
We have sold another property despite the virus doom and gloom. This recently listed ranch is now under contract and we’re closing in on a couple of others. I don’t attribute this real estate purchase to the coronavirus scare, but rather folks...
A New Listing and Another Sale
It has been a busy week with a new listing and another sale of one of our listings. In the past week, we listed this outstanding 97 acre property located ten minutes south of Marion, NC at the base of the Blue Ridge Escarpment. Featuring two dwellings, plus two...
The Virus
What a difference a couple of weeks make. The coronavirus is all over the news. This is just one more reminder that we should always be ready and that our daily lives can be quickly interrupted out of the blue. Just look at the thousands of folks stranded on cruise...
The Biggest Little Farm
We recently enjoyed watching the movie/documentary titled The Biggest Little Farm. I highly recommend it. About half of our clients are seeking land for safety and security (i.e. “prepping”), while the other half are simply looking for land on which to...
105 Acre Farm With Vineyard
We have the pleasure to bring this amazing 105 acre farm with vineyard and magnificent home to market. Located approximately 45 minutes from Asheville with direct views to the South Mountains, this working cattle farm and vineyard is simply amazing not only for its...
In The News With Reuters
We are pleased to have been featured prominently in a just recently released online article by the Thompson Reuters Foundation. We were interviewed in December for our insights on the impact of property values by those seeking retreat property or bugout properties as...
Why Prepare?
Why prepare for an event that may never happen? This is a valid question and was explained to me recently by Preston Ingalls, a seller client of mine. In a document he prepared he asks: “What could possibly motivate a sane person to spend most of their...
2019 to 2020
Where did 2019 go? Thanks to some great clients, wonderful cooperating brokers, amazing properties and God’s grace, we finished in the record books. Last year was the best ever in closings and listings. So where are things headed in 2020? No way to know for...
Former Government Command Bunker For Sale
If you’re in the market for a former government command bunker for sale, look no further! I was contacted earlier today by the owner of this facility located in rural Ohio. (NOTE: Retreat Realty, Ltd., is not licensed in the state of Ohio, but I’m...
Thankful For Power
Yesterday morning started like any other. Rolled out of bed around 6 AM and already had the Christmas tree lights on their timers, so we awoke to their warm glow. Moments after pouring our cups of coffee to await the sunrise, the lights went out. Not just ours, but...
530 Miles In Two Days
When looking at real estate in the mountains, its not unusual to put a lot of miles on the vehicle. This is especially true when it comes to homesteads or prepper properties. The unique nature of these properties naturally reduces their number and thus proximity to...
Magazine Article
I was recently interviewed for a local magazine article on the topic of people coming to western North Carolina to get away from the effects of climate change. Whether you believe the arguments for or against climate change, there is a growing trend of increased...
New Affordable Listing
We just signed the listing on this affordable property located ten minutes south of I-40 south of Marion, NC. Its a very private property, yet easily accessible and with some very gently laying land. There are approximately 40 acres with an older, but comfortable...
Sold! A Case Study
Just closed on the sale of another of our listings and it provides a case study. This was the riverfront home on 46 acres in Avery County. A beautiful setting with extreme river frontage which is a rarity. It was on the market for just over ten months and sold for...
Complete Compound For Sale
Tranquility Ridge is a complete compound for sale in the northern Piedmont of North Carolina. Situated northeast of Greensboro in a very rural area of Caswell County within walking distance of thousands of acres of state owned game lands, Tranquility Ridge is the...
National Preparedness Month
Did you know that September is National Preparedness Month? The theme this year is “Prepared, Not Scared”. Of course the business model for Retreat Realty is to be prepared. I routinely write and speak about the importance of being prepared. There are...
Triple Creek Farm
Triple Creek Farm is an “old”/”new” listing. When I first launched Retreat Realty in 2016 the owners of this property allowed me to post their property as being “for sale”, but at a very high price. I appreciate them allowing me...
New Farm Listing in Madison County
We just were given this new farm listing in Madison County. Its a truly unique 100+/- acre farm approximately 18 to 19 minutes from the town of Marshall and about 45 minutes north of Asheville, NC. Click here for complete details and photos. This property offers...
Airport Shutdown
If you need proof as to how quickly things can come to a halt, look no further than the recent shut down of the Hong Kong International Airport. This is one of the busiest airports in the world, moving 74 million visitors per year and serving 120+ airlines with 1,100...
Lights out, A Nation Unprepared
I In a 2015 blog post, I referenced Ted Koppel’s book “Lights Out, A Nation Unprepared” when referencing the risk to our national power grid to that of a cyber attack. I finally read the book and despite any political differences of opinion you may...
New Retreat Center Listing
Just listed this 200+/- acre active retreat center located north of Asheville in Madison County. Located in the historic Spring Creek area between Asheville and the town of Hot Springs, this property is tucked away in the mountains, yet easily accessible via a paved,...
Price Adjustment
Just had a $50,000 price adjustment on this exceptional off-grid home located just north of Asheville. This property offers total privacy and total energy independence, yet it has high speed fiber optic cable to the house! That is a rarity in these mountains. Gravity...
Food Issues
Are we having food issues here in the U.S., or is this just a temporary thing? The other day, a client and subscriber sent me a link to an alarming online posting about canned food disappearing from grocery shelves across the nation. In all my writings, I try to avoid...
New Price!
You’ll be had pressed to find a better value than this ten acre private farm in northwestern Buncombe County (Asheville). Situated on its pristine ten acres is a beautifully maintained three bedroom, three bath home with all the modern comforts and conveniences...
Hurricane Season
Hurricane season is now in full swing with the first tropical storm/hurricane of Barry hitting the Gulf Coast as I write. Although its not a Category 2, 3 or 4, the rains it brings along with the flood stage Mississippi is the concern. This is a reminder that we...
Closed Two More
Last week we had the privilege of helping two more seller clients close two more properties. These were the Pokeweed Farm property in northwest Buncombe County and the Ken Cove Farm property in Madison County near Hot Springs. The Pokeweed Farm property was on the...
Hardened Structures
I just had a phone conversation with one of the principals of Hardened Structures, LLC. Hardened Structures is the world leader in the design and construction of residential, commercial and military grade structures designed to withstand any natural or manmade...
New Land Listing
We just listed this very appealing 65 acre property located in Mitchell County north of Bakersville. Situated at the end of a paved public road, it provides total privacy to the owner and adjoins conservation lands that are part of the Roan Mountain State Park...
Another Japan Trip
I just returned from another extended trip to Japan, where once again I was blown away with the infrastructure that keeps this country humming. The Far East is very different than the west in many respects, and in Japan one thing that always impresses me is its...
De-Clutter Your Life
Every now and then I get a request from another blogger asking to post one of their articles on my website. When the information is relevant to that of Retreat Realty, or real estate in general, I’m glad to oblige. This one below comes to me from Alice...
Closed A Couple More
In the past 24 hours, Retreat Realty closed a couple more listings. There’s a reason I haven’t written a blog post in three weeks……I’ve been busy writing new listings, sales contracts and handling closings. We’ve been very...
Power Out in Black Mountain
As I write this post, the power is out in Black Mountain. Not only in the town of Black Mountain, but the town of Montreat and Montreat College where classes have been cancelled. No snow. No ice. No wind. Nice sunshine and mild temps. Nothing out of the...
Top 100
Last week, Movement Mortgage hosted its annual Top 100 event for area real estate brokers. This is a time of recognition for the 2,000+ brokers in the greater Asheville area showcasing those who have led the market in sales for the past year. I’m pleased to...
New Totally Off Grid Home
We’re pleased to offer this new totally off grid home located just 30 minutes from downtown Asheville here in the western North Carolina mountains. This property has never been connected to the grid. It gets its power from a combination of solar power and...
New Farm Listing
This new 330+/- acre farm listing is an outstanding value: one of the best we’ve ever had the opportunity to present. With nearly 100 acres of gently laying fenced pasture, 5,200′ of bold water in Silver Creek, a 5BR/4BA house, farm buildings and views at...
SOLD!
We recently closed on the sale of the Round Knob Lodge, the magnificent lodge built by the Southern Railway in the 1930’s. It is an amazing property situated on 29 acres up on a rocky promontory overlooking the Mill Creek and a bass pond and a trout pond. The...
The SmartFlower Solar System
Is the SmartFlower Solar System for you? Recently while meeting a bridge builder, he told me of a solar system his son had installed at his homestead. Sounded intriguing. He said its a small sized system, portable, and tracks with the sun throughout the day. ...
Heritage Life Skills
The annual Heritage Life Skills in Waynesville is coming up soon! Its April 12 – 14 this year and is being held once again at the Folkmoot Center. if you haven’t attended and are interested in learning the skills our great-great grandparents knew, then...
New Homestead Listing Asheville Area
This new homestead listing in the Asheville area is truly designed for sustainable off-grid living if the power goes out, but at the same time providing fun and recreation in the meantime. The owners engaged Scott Hunt of Practical Preppers to design the systems...
Secluded Farm Just North of Asheville
This secluded farm just north of Asheville is our newest listing. Its an outstanding 3BR/3BA home on some amazing acreage. It occupies a private cove at the end of the road, ensuring total privacy and security. Acres of sundrenched pasture and fields provide ample...
Earthquake
The other morning, I was awakened around 4:15 AM being shaken by an earthquake that occurred in eastern Tennessee. It lasted for about five seconds, and I immediately concluded that’s what it was. No damage was reported and I immediately drifted back to...
Sold And Listed
Announcing that we recently sold and listed more properties. In the past couple of weeks, the Bluebird Farm went to contract, we closed on the Spruce Pine Getaway and listed the 102 acre homestead in Mitchell County. Its been a busy season and we’ll soon be...
Western North Carolina 159 Acre Property
This recently listed western North Carolina 159 acre property is an outdoor lover’s playground. Located within 1,500′ of the famed Blue Ridge Parkway, yet convenient to the four lane US 221 just four miles away and Marion only 17 minutes down the road,...
Preparing For A Major Snow Event
For those of us in the mountains of Western North Carolina, we’re busily preparing for a major snow event. One very nice thing about living in western North Carolina is that we have four very distinct seasons and though we tend to get several snowfalls each...
Letter Of Reference
Its always rewarding to get a very nice letter of reference. For those of you who have met me to look at property, many of you have seen the three ring binder I carry with me that contains dozens of letters of reference. Its a nice thing to show prospective clients...
Homemade Antiseptic
Here’s a great, simple recipe for a homemade antiseptic. When we get scrapes or small cuts, we often reach immediately for the alcohol or hydrogen peroxide, but this all natural ointment does even better by attacking any infectious bacteria but also soothing...
Head To The Hills
According to a recent New York Times article written by Alyson Krueger, the cry “Head to the hills” is becoming more common as the talk of climate change continues to grow. Whether you believe the reports or not, things are changing in the world around us...
New Farm Listing Near Asheville
Check out this new farm listing near Asheville! If you’ve been looking for a beautiful, updated, manageable farm that isn’t in the hinterlands, this is it. Fourteen acres of gently rolling pasture and woodlands complimented with an extensively updated...
Appalachian Solar Works
The other day, I had a chance encounter with Chad Colwell, Co-Owner of Appalachian Solar Works. I was leaving Staples when this large utility van pulled up with their logo all over it, so I snapped a photo for future reference. Out popped Chad and we struck up a...
Armchair Agents
We’ve all heard of “armchair quarterbacks”, but what about armchair agents? I’ve been involved in real estate since August 1987 when I started as an apprentice real estate appraiser. Worked for five years as an appraiser toward the MAI...
Handling The Hurricanes
Handling the hurricanes has become a requirement for folks living in North and South Carolina these past few weeks with Hurricanes Florence and Michael coming through. Now the hard work begins. Our hearts go out to those in Florida and South Georgia as they start the...
Carolina Preppers Network Hurricane Response
The Carolina Preppers Network hurricane response was something with which to be impressed. For those who don’t know, CPN is an education/support organization with members in North and South Carolina. There are no membership dues and all participants are volunteers...
What’s in the Water?
What’s in the water that we see covering the eastern half of North Carolina?. Though hurricane Florence is long gone, the rains it brought and poured on the North Carolina Piedmont are just now making their way through the coastal plain, inundating innumerable...
Preparing for Hurricane Florence
Here we are in the mountains of Western North Carolina and we are preparing for Hurricane Florence. Seems odd to think that a weather event that is mostly associated with coastal flooding and damage down there is something for which we in the mountains should...
New Summer Camp Listing
We have a new summer camp listing for a 20 acre camp located just south of Hendersonville. This beautiful property adjoins North Carolina Game Lands and the Green River Gorge area. Its an exceptional opportunity for multiple families to have a self-sustainable...
Preparedness Month
In case you didn’t know, September is Preparedness Month. Time to pull together your preps and review what you have. Read a good book on the subject or take a class to learn a new skill. In going through your emergency preparedness items, look for what you...
Fisherman’s Paradise
We just recently listed a fisherman’s paradise located on the N. Toe River in our beautiful western North Carolina mountains. This 46 acre parcel features a custom built four bedroom house with privacy and scenery in abundance. With approximately 1/2 a mile of...
Japan’s Electric Trains
Japan’s Electric Trains: I just returned from a two week trip to Japan. It was actually my fifth time there as I’m married to a missionary kid (“MK”) who was born there, as was her father, and his father and his father. Lots of history in...
A Little Time Away
Its been a very busy first half of the year, so I’m taking a little time away. Won’t be writing anything for a few weeks as I visit my wife’s old stomping grounds in Japan. Its a much needed break. So far this year, I’ve closed/written...
Coming Soon
Coming soon we’ll be introducing a grouping of modestly priced properties that have a lot to offer the homesteader or those simply looking for a rural building site. These properties consist of five properties ranging from approximately five acres to ten...
Invasive Plants
Invasive plants such as Kudzu aren’t anything new in these mountains, but one in particular is especially disturbing. As I write this post, I have a mild case of Poison Ivy. Its a real inconvenience, but not much more than that. However, have you heard of the...
Sensible Mountain Preparedness Seminar
Our good friends at Carolina Readiness Supply in nearby Waynesville are hosting the Sensible Mountain Preparedness Seminar on July 14th from 9 AM to 6 PM. Come for the whole day or part of it. This is shaping up to be a very informative day of seminars featuring...
Hurricane Season Is Here
Hurricane season is here! We got an early start with Tropical Storm Alberto recently when it dropped around 12 inches of rain in our mountains over the span of a couple of days. Did a pretty fair amount of damage to roads and property. I was representing buyers who...
New Farm Listing
This new farm listing just north of Asheville is a beautiful spot for a family farm, retreat or bugout location. Its easy to reach, yet very private and rich in resources. There are more than 800′ of frontage on Sandy Mush Creek, plus there is a spring fed...
Water Water Everywhere
Water water everywhere! That’s how its been the past few weeks, then we got hit with numerous inches of rain from Tropical Storm Alberto. Caught everyone by surprise. It just parked over the mountains and created pockets of serious flooding and erosion. Just...
Solar Forced Air
Did you realize you can heat your house with solar forced air? Yes, it is true (to a certain extent). Basic physics teach us that hot air rises, and if you can capture hot air, then funnel it into your living space, you can heat up a sizable room with a very simple...
The Ants and the Grasshopper
In today’s mail, I had a flyer from Emergency Essentials with a foldout recounting Aesop’s fable, “The Ants and the Grasshopper”. You older folks will remember it, but the younger ones among us; probably not. Google it. Being a...
Hot in Hawaii
Things have gotten hot in Hawaii of late. You can’t watch the evening news without seeing the amazing video of the creeping lava flows engulfing entire neighborhoods. How quickly one’s daily routine can change. One day you’re enjoying the south...
Silence Is Golden
When the power goes out, silence is golden. What do I mean by that? Last week due to high winds, our power went out for about seven hours. We live in a rural area with no houses in view, but farms and neighbors are nearby in our little valley. As I stepped out...
92 Acres Near Lake Lure
We just listed a great 92 acres near Lake Lure located just about a half hour from the Tryon International Equestrian Center. This property is ideally suited for a private retreat, homestead, or bugout property. Its easy to reach, but totally hidden because the...
Cape Town’s Day Zero
If you’ve not yet heard of Cape Town’s Day Zero, do a google search or just read about it here in USA Today. “Day Zero” is the day government officials in Cape Town, South Africa estimate the city’s taps will run dry. Due to years of...
A Kind Letter of Reference
In this business, it is always an honor to get a nice letter of reference in the mail. I recently closed the sale of the 66 acres Goldsmith parcel I had listed outside Asheville that had been in the selling family for a long time. Here is the text of the letter...
Affordably Priced Ten Acres
These affordably priced ten acres with excellent access and features is offered with owner financing. This is a rare find. The property sits at 4,000′ elevation in a very private, small lot community behind a locked gate for security with covenants designed to...
Heritage Life Skills
It is now April, so that means two things: The Masters in Augusta, Georgia and the Heritage Life Skills Event at Carolina Readiness Supply. Each year our good friends at Carolina Readiness Supply host the Heritage Life Skills weekend event. This is a tremendous...
Closed Two In One Day
An unusual thing happened yesterday; we closed two sales in one day. In my 30 years of real estate, I don’t recall ever closing two transactions on the same day. While it was certainly rewarding for everyone involved, it was also stressful leading up to that...
New Homestead Prepper Community
Once in a while, we get introduced to some really unique opportunities and this new homestead prepper community is one such example. I must first note that it is located in eastern Tennessee and Retreat Realty is not licensed in Tennessee so we cannot physically show...
Buckhorn Tavern Farm Listing
The Buckhorn Tavern Farm listing represents a very upscale property ideally suited for a family retreat property, bed and breakfast inn or a wedding event venue. Its one of the highest quality built homes I’ve ever seen, and the setting is stunning. Located...
Container Gardening
For those of you who don’t have an acre or more for a garden, the Garden Patch Grow Box is a must. I purchased some of these last year and was amazed at the results. It takes up very little space, is easy to maintain and produces an incredible amount of...
Whistle While You Work
“Whistle while you work” is a good habit to follow when out in the woods. In my business, I do a lot of hiking on large land tracts, often by myself. Therefore, I always carry a few things with me, and one of those is a whistle. If I have an accident, a...
One of the Best
Its nice to be recognized as one of the best among one’s peers. That’s what happened just this week when survival blogger Tara Dodrill included Retreat Realty as the #2 such agency on her nationwide “Best Survival Real Estate Agencies” post on...
Tsunami Alert
As of a few hours ago, a tsunami alert was issued along the west coast of the United States after a 7.2 magnitude earthquake occurred in the Gulf of Alaska. No reports yet of damage or such, but this shows yet again the suddenness with which life can change. We all...
50 States to 49?
A few days ago it seemed almost as if the United States was about to go from 50 states to 49. That’s when the emergency broadcast center in Hawaii sent out an alarming notice of an inbound ballistic missile. For those of us sitting comfortably thousands of...
New Lake James Property
We just listed two new properties within a 1/2 mile of Lake James having direct access to the North Fork of The Catawba River. These properties are of 22 and 16 acres with some wonderful features: Paved road access Underground power to the property Great interior...
Bugout property or Homestead?
What’s the difference between a bugout property or homestead? For most of the characteristics, they are very similar. The primary difference comes in the way the buyers/owners approach security. I deal with two primary types of buyers: preppers who have an...
New Look
We have a new look here at Retreat Realty. Its been over a month since our last post, and that’s been due to a number of circumstances that coalesced together into a perfect storm. A death in the family, the flu, an ice storm, relocating a child, furnace going...
Ultimate Off Grid Property
If you’re looking for the ultimate off grid property, this is it, and it won’t cost you a fortune! This four bedroom ranch is situated just fifteen minutes from Hayesville, NC on a beautiful year round stream with a garden that produces more food than the owners can...
Leave the Driving To Us
Leave the driving to us. When coming to our area to look at real estate, its important clients have an understanding of what to expect. Its a sensitive topic, but something that needs to be mentioned from time to time. Here are some guidelines that will help make your...
Another Closing
Always good to have another closing. With the Thanksgiving holiday and lots of other things going on, it is a pleasure to have another closing come about. This one involved a 57+ acre parcel north of Burnsville, NC that features some incredible views of the Black...
EMP Commission Report
A recent Homeland Security subcommittee report presented to Congress describing the threat and impact an EMP could have on the continental U.S. was featured in Forbes Magazine. Anyone who follows this blog has read previous postings about an Electromagnetic Pulse...
Customer Appreciation Day
Our friends at Carolina Readiness Supply are hosting their annual Customer Appreciation Day this Saturday, October 28th. This is a great opportunity to stock up on essential supplies as they will be offering Mountain House brand goods at 20% off and $8.00 off per case...
Fire On The Mountain
Fire on the mountain! That’s a cry no one wants to hear. But the wildfires in California bring to mind the fire storm that overtook Gatlinburg, TN last December. I have friends in Tennessee who were seriously affected, and I was there recently where you could still...
152 Acre Bugout Near Asheville and Johnson City
Just listed this wonderful 152 acre bugout near Asheville and Johnson City. This one offers total privacy, yet convenience to a good road system and day-to-day services anyone may need. It is 55 minutes north of Asheville and only 30 minutes south of Johnson City and...
SOS How to Survive
The other night, I watched my first episode of the Weather Channel’s new show, “SOS How to Survive”. Unlike so many of the staged prepper shows such as Doomsday Preppers and such, this one offers more practical situations and solutions when facing an...
Lots Going On
Hard to believe it has been more than a month since my last post. Have had a lot going on. No, I wasn’t impacted much by the hurricane(s), just been busy with the showing and listing of properties and conducting due diligence for those that are under...
Round Knob Lodge
The historic Round Knob Lodge is now available for sale. Click here for the full information page including a 3D walkthrough tour and video. Its an exceptional property on 29 acres with large stream and two large, stocked ponds. Located just 15 minutes east of...
Keep Out!
Keep Out! That was the message from a property owner I came across, although not necessarily directed at me. In my line of work, I often come across some amazing properties and interesting people. One of the things about a retreat property or bugout property is to...
The Helical Outpost
I thank my friend and fellow broker, Billy May for introducing me to the Helical Outpost from Helical Holdings. While the main purpose of its creation is to promote goodwill and low impact sustainability in poorly developed areas, it is a system that fits well into...
What’s yours is mine
In a “What’s yours is mine” move, police and sheriff departments across the country have been seizing assets from drug dealers and other malcontents for years by using what is known as “civil forfeiture laws”. Who could object? Such...
Active Prepping Community
One of the benefits of living where I do is that there is a very supportive and active prepping community. One of the gems of this area is Carolina Readiness Supply in Waynesville. If you’ve been a subscriber for a while, you know I’ve mentioned them...
New Prepper Homestead
This new prepper homestead is an excellent option for those looking for a property with two residences, lots of water, privacy and good gardening area. Located between Fontana Lake and Bryson City, about an hour and a half southeast of Asheville, this property...
Without Power
Yesterday afternoon, a brief but violent storm blew through our town and suddenly we were without power. It was a sobering reminder of how dependent we are on the power grid. Your whole mindset has to shift. You go to turn on a light, only to realize it won’t...
Celebrating Your Liberty
On this July 4th, I hope you are celebrating your liberty. After all, its been paid for by the blood and sacrifice of countless Americans so that you can enjoy more than hot dogs, fireworks and a day at the beach. One of the things our forefathers and others...
Avoid The Bugs When Bugging Out
Here are some tips for ticks this season. In this business, I spend a lot of time hiking through woods, pastures, climbing over downed trees, grassy fields and old barns. As a result, its not uncommon to get home and find one or two hitchhikers. Yes ticks, those...
30 Acre Bugout Property
We just took the private listing for a 30 acre bugout property. Its an absolutely beautiful property with all that one needs for a secure, resource rich prepper property. Click here to view the entire listing. Located in the Nantahala National Forest, approximately...
Ultimate Sustainable Survival Property
For the ultimate sustainable survival property, look no further. I had the pleasure of meeting an electro-mechanical engineer who has built a most complete survival, off the grid property for his family in the far reaches of western North Carolina, and fortunately...
Busy Weekend
A busy weekend and week has put me behind in posting. But I’m not complaining. This weekend saw two more listings go to contract: the Sustainable Farm and Holcombe Farm properties. Neither of these properties were on the market for more than 45 days which...
Day of Remembrance
Memorial Day is a day of remembrance during which we remember those who have given their all and thank those among us who have lost loved ones in the service of our nation. Some folks confuse it with Veterans Day, which has its own honorable date on the calendar, but...
A Great Summer Read
Here is a great summer read. My subscribers know that the book that really started me down this path is William Forstchen’s “One Second After” (about which I’ve written elsewhere). As I meet others from around the country, many of them tell...
WannaCry Ransomware Attack
Companies and governments are still reeling from Friday’s WannaCry Ransomware Attack. We’re all now well familiar with computer viruses and such, but many folks had still never heard of ransomware until this weekend. That’s a program a hacker slips...
Off The Grid Wonder
This Off The Grid Wonder is a prime example of all that one can do to live off the grid and sustainably from the land, yet in comfort. Living off the grid doesn’t have to mean living in a yurt or teepee, drinking water from creek. This homestead is...
Weekend of Learning
The recent Heritage Life Skills in Waynesville provided a weekend of learning. HLS is by far the best event of which I know wherein one can gain a lifetime of knowledge in three days. You’ve read in previous posts that with over 40 classes on nearly every...
Another New Listing
We are pleased to announce another new listing. This time, its a 131 acre tract located 25 minutes north of Asheville just outside the college town of Mars Hill. Off the beaten path, but actually being very convenient to a four lane highway and shopping, dining and...
Many Happy Returns
Many happy returns (to Uncle Sam). Now that the 2016 tax season is officially over, my mind wondered over to thinking of where does all that money go. Its practically impossible to tell these days, but another thought came to mind, and that is the national debt. If...
Heritage Life Skills
Its time again for the sixth annual Heritage Life Skills in Waynesville. If you’ve not attended one of these before, I highly encourage you to do so. This is the most complete event of its kind anywhere of which I know. Over the course of three days this...
Outsider Club
I recently had the good fortune of having Jimmy Mengel, Managing Editor of the Outsider Club interview me and now publish the interview on their website here. For those who don’t know, the Outsider Club is an alternative news outlet that is well written and...
Biggest Listing Yet
Morris Glen Farm is our biggest listing yet. At 761 acres, Morris Glen Farm located in McDowell County (Marion, NC) is the largest listing in the MLS within seven counties. We’re honored to have been selected to represent the family in the sale of this...
A Safer Smarter Grid
The current issue of Time Magazine has an article titled A Safer Smarter Grid as part of its cover story of America’s aging infrastructure. I’ve written several times in previous posts about the vulnerability of our nation’s power grid from natural...
New Cabin and 40 Acres
We recently listed a wonderful 3 bedroom, 3 bath cabin on 40 very private acres with two year round streams and a pond. This is an exceptional value in that it is an immaculate house with all furnishings to convey. Located just 18 minutes south of Marion and 14...
Thank You Veterans
Thank you Veterans! This post has nothing to do with real estate or prepping, but rather a public thank you to our veterans. I just had the privilege of attending a Black Mountain Chamber of Commerce After Hours at the North Carolina Home for Veterans. I have...
Market Is Up
Like many areas of the country, the real estate market is up for property in the western North Carolina mountains. This has been true for a few years now in regard to single family homes. However, in recent months I’ve seen a big uptick in demand for mid-size...
Seed Vault?
Does your homestead or bugout spot have a seed vault? No, I’m not talking about a steel safe with stacks and stacks of seeds on shelves. A seed vault simply means having heirloom, non-hybrid, non-GMO seeds you can pull out and use to grow you garden. How are...
A Sustainable Farm
We’re pleased to have just listed a sustainable farm 15 minutes from Black Mountain, NC. This farm is situated on 14+ acres of prime land and is easily accessible, yet totally hidden from view. This is truly a working farm that produces all the vegetable,...
Another Major Glitch
Once again, another major glitch has brought down a substantial portion of the internet. As of 11:45 AM EST, Amazon Web Services which maintains its Simple Storage Service for the likes of Netflix to Reddit has been experiencing crashes and causing innumerable web...
Heritage Life Skills VI
Heritage Life Skills VI is coming up April 21- 23 in Waynesville at the Folkmoot Center. If you’ve not attended, but are into prepping, off-grid living, homesteading or just want to learn some long lost skills, you simply must attend. HLS is one of the most...
New Listing
We have a new listing for a 131 acre tract just outside the town of Black Mountain. Click here to read the property description and view photos of this exceptional property. Featuring creeks, easy road grade access, pasture and fields, woodlands, southern exposure,...
Silicon Valley and Prepping
What do Silicon Valley and prepping have in common? Turns out, there is a growing interest in prepping out there and elsewhere in the high tech sector. An article in the current issue of “The New Yorker” magazine (read it here) interviews several...
Apollo 13
One of my favorite movies is Apollo 13, which chronicles the events surrounding the explosion on the Apollo command module in 1969. Its one of the few “based on a true story” movies that is actually quite accurate. I’ve read the book “Lost...
New Property Coming
Have a new property coming soon. This one features 131 acres of beautiful land in southeastern Buncombe County (Asheville). Its hardly ten minutes from downtown Black Mountain with its dozens of privately owned restaurants along with every shop and service you could...
The Final Day
Our good friend and best selling author, Dr. Bill Forstchen has been busy signing copies of his newest book, “The Final Day”. This is the third and final installment in the “One Second After” trilogy. The second installment was “One...
New Pocket Listing
We have a new pocket listing that will be of interest to some of our readers. I toured this property back in the spring and at the time it was listed with another firm. The owners didn’t get much action and pulled it off the market, but they were impressed...
Non Electric Cooking Bag
The Non Electric Cooking Bag? What’s that? While visiting Jan Sterrett, friend and owner of Carolina Readiness Supply in Waynesville the other day, she pointed out what looked sort of like a gigantic 60 round magazine on its side with a beret covering the hole...
New Listing
We have a new listing for an ideal prepper property close to the town of Black Mountain. If you’ve read Dr. Bill Forstchen’s seminal book “One Second After”, you’ll recognize the town of Black Mountain as the story is based on our...
I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day
One of my favorite Christmas carols is “I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day” by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow. As we pause to celebrate Christmas amid the hustle and bustle of getting and giving “things”, I feel the words of this hymn apply very...
Price Adjustment on the Pisgah Ranch
There has been a price adjustment on the Pisgah Ranch. Pisgah Ranch is a property built with bugging out and prepping in mind. Situated at the end of a private road in southwestern Buncombe County, yet only 15 minutes to the nearest grocery store, this property is...
Picking a Prepper Property 2
In my prior post on pricing a prepper property, I described the impact the distance from town can have on finding an affordable survival or bugout property. Generally the further out you go, the lower the price. I also mentioned a follow up posting that would offer...
Pricing a Prepper Property
How does one go about pricing a prepper property? There are many characteristics I’ve described in previous blog posts that make up a good bugout or prepper property. An interesting point is that often times, the things buyers in the western North Carolina...
Stocking Stuffers for Your Prepper?
Looking for some stocking stuffers for your prepper? Then look no further than this list Tess Pennington has compiled on her blog site. Lets face it, many of the items you find for sale on prepper websites can be rather expensive. I recently had an inquiry from an...
Sold One, Listed Another
Here at Retreat Realty, we have much to be thankful for this Thanksgiving holiday week, including the fact that in the last few days we sold one, listed another! Through the year, we’ve been able to assist dozens of folks seeking the ideal western North...
Fried, Scrambled or Hard Boiled?
Do you like your eggs fried, scrambled or hard boiled? If you have backyard chickens, you can have them any way you like, because with a coop of egg laying hens, you have an unlimited supply. If you’re planning for a bugout property, survival property or to be...
“Only You can Prevent Forest Fires”
Growing up, I remember hearing Smoky the Bear saying “Only you can prevent forest fires”. It was quaint, but the seriousness of it was lost on a 9 year old boy who was more interested in playing with matches. However, the current dry spell here in the...
Blinded by the Light
Manfred Mann’s Earth Band had a top 100 hit song, “Blinded by the Light” in 1977 (although it was originally written by Bruce Springsteen in 73). Great tune with some forever confused lyrics. However, if you want to really be blinded by the light,...
Unable to Access Account
If you saw the message “Unable to Access Account” when attempting log in to your online accounts week before last, you were like millions of others. A concentrated Denial of Service attack was set in motion on the internet infrastructure company Dyn. Dyn...
Amid the hype
Here at Retreat Realty, our purpose is to assist those seeking a personal retreat or survival property to find the most suitable property. The entire philosophy of one needing such a survival property is predicated on a concern about the future of our personal...
Prepper World Summit 3
The Prepper World Summit 3 begins October 23rd through the 31st, and there’s never been a more important time to be prepped. The Prepper World Summit is an online format featuring many of the nation’s leading experts on prepping and survival skills. They...
Cell Tower Power
In a grid down situation, how long before cell tower power goes out as well? Its well known that cell phone towers have back up power to keep cellular service up and running when the power goes out. However, they have their limitations. Remote cell tower locations...
Out of Gas
“Out of Gas” Not something you really want to hear, but hear it we are. The discovery of a leak in the Colonial Pipeline gas line which distributes 1.3 to 1.5 million gallons of gasoline per day from Houston to New York has sent convenience stores and...SOLD AND CLOSED ANOTHER
We recently had the pleasure of assisting buyers as we sold and closed another great property up in northern Madison County (north of Asheville). This 20 acre property featured end of the road privacy, mostly open gently rolling pasture, a partially completed house...
Cooking with the Sun Oven
This weekend I tried out cooking with the Sun Oven during a practice bugout scenario at a friend’s farm. The Sun Oven worked perfectly. There was basically no assembly required and I had it out of the box and in the sun ready to go in minutes. Using some eggs...
The Borrowed World
While in nearby Waynesville visiting my friends at Carolina Readiness Supply, I picked up a copy of the book The Borrowed World by Franklin Horton. Started reading it this evening and had trouble putting it down. Its now past midnight and I thought I’d give a...
Protecting Electronics from an EMP
Protecting electronics from an EMP needn’t be complex or expensive. It can be done with every day items, and be very effective. First, what is an EMP? Regular readers know that an EMP stands for an Electro Magnetic Pulse. Depending on a variety of factors, an...
New Affordable Property Listing
We just signed up a new affordable property listing that should have broad appeal for various reasons. The Little Camp Creek Tract is situated in Rutherford County in the foothills between Charlotte and Asheville. Easily accessible via paved county roads, yet very...
A Man’s Best Friend
It has long been said that a dog is a man’s best friend. For those in the prepper movement who may have a mountain survival property, a dog is likely to be much more than just a friend and companion. Dog’s have the ability to serve their masters in ways...
Product Review of the Minuteman Rocket Stove
Its been a while since I’ve posted a product review, so in between property showings, I thought I’d send up a new one. I met Lane Miller, creator of the Minuteman Rocket Stove at the Heritage Life Skills event held in Waynesville, NC earlier this year. As...
An Evening with Dr. William Forstchen
Last night I had the pleasure of introducing Dr. William Forstchen and his wife Robin to the Charlotte chapter of the Carolina Preppers Network. Around 95 people from as far away as Myrtle Beach attended the dinner and presentation. They were not disappointed. As...
The Critical Infrastructure Protection Act
After years of ignoring the very real threat of an electromagnetic pulse weapon (EMP), the US House Committee on Homeland Security recently passed the Critical Infrastructure Protection Act. Like most government programs, it is best known by its acronym...
The Brits Did It
Well, the Brits did it. By a narrow margin of less than two percent, the citizens of Britain voted to leave the EU and chart their own course. About the only guarantee is that there will be a lot of hand wringing and short term ups and downs in the financial markets...
Venezuela Unravels
Venezuela unravels and you need to be wondering, “Could this happen in America?” Venezuela sits on the largest oil reserves in the world. That’s right, more than Saudi Arabia. At one time, Venezuela was an economically strong country with among...
The Upcoming Bank Bail In
Are you and I going to be part of the upcoming bank bail in? What is a “Bail In” you ask? You’re not going to like it. We’re all familiar with the big bank bailouts of 2008 and 2009 for those banks deemed “too big to fail.”...
Huntsville Farm
The Huntsville Farm is one of the most special, ideal North Carolina prepper properties we’ve come across. If you’ve read “Atlas Shrugged” by Ayn Rand, then you know about Gault’s Gultch. Well, this is Gault’s Gultch here in the...
Britain’s Vote On The 23rd?
Why should we care about Britain’s vote on the 23rd? If you’ve not been following overseas news lately, you may have missed the debate about Britain’s historic vote on June 23rd in which its citizens will decide if they will become masters of their...
TV Casting Call!
Here is a TV casting call for anyone interested in their fifteen minutes of fame on television. Yesterday afternoon, I received a phone call from a television producer in California that is setting up a show about preppers and their bunkers. The show will likely go...
Carolina Preppers Network
Last night I had the pleasure of attending a meeting of the Charlotte chapter of the Carolina Preppers Network. The group consists of hundreds of members that stay connected through a web based forum and monthly meetings. There are now chapters in several other...
From One Who Lived Through Katrina
Had an email recently from one who lived through Katrina and it was a sobering tale of warning to those who are unprepared. Steve B. shared his story of how he and his wife flew into New Orleans the Friday night before Katrina. They were there for a wedding and...
Fire On The Mountain!
Just the other day while heading to one of my listings to show potential buyers, I got a message from the seller that there was fire on the mountain! Thinking such a situation would be a huge turnoff to my buyer I contemplated canceling the tour, however, decided to...
Prime Bug Out Property
The other day, I had the opportunity to tour a prime bug out property with its owner. The Pisgah Ranch was designed from the ground up to be a North Carolina survival property. It looks like a friendly log home (which it is), but it is a fortress. Situated on 97...
What is “Due Diligence”?
Much of what Retreat Realty does for folks is conduct due diligence. But what is “due diligence”? Its a real estate term describing the research and analysis of a property to determine if it is suitable for one’s needs. Most of our clients are...
Raising Rabbits
Raising rabbits as a food source is something most of us find unsettling. After all, how could one butcher a cute bunny? But when the economy tanks and the grocery stores are stripped bare, our attitudes will change. During the recent Heritage Life Skills event my...
Three Days of Learning
Just completed three days of learning and showcasing at the Heritage Life Skills event in Waynesville, and what an event! Retreat Realty had its display booth featuring western North Carolina survival properties and many folks stopped by to chat. The event itself...
NPR Broadcast on Survival Real Estate
Today a friend of mine alerted me that on the afternoon broadcast of “All Things Considered” an NPR broadcast on Survival Real Estate would be aired. I hurriedly turned on my Bose Wave Radio and waited. Sure enough, along came NPR reporter Kirk Seigler...
Heritage Life Skills
Just a reminder of the upcoming Heritage Life Skills event taking place at the Waynesville Fairgrounds this weekend April 29, April 30 and May 1. Our friends at Carolina Readiness Supply are putting it together and it is shaping up to be a tremendous event. There...
An Affordable Bug Out Property
More often than not, a North Carolina survival property entails a sizable amount of acreage in order to provide privacy and the natural resources one may need in an off the grid living situation. Unfortunately, that acreage tends to come at a higher price. However,...
Earthquakes In Two Days
Amazingly, we’ve witnessed three earthquakes in two days time with two of them in southern Japan and a third in Ecuador. These reminded me of the Great Hanshin Earthquake in Kobe and Osaka Japan which my in-laws lived through. In that event, more than 6,000...
Bug Out In Style
Normally, a survival property offers a lot of acreage without any kind of covenants and restrictions, but occasionally, I find a property in a platted development that may be a good fix for some. Very often, to get a large amount of acreage, one must spend quite a...
Survival Property Testimonial
In today’s Inbox, I received the following survival property testimonial from a recent client. This individual had responded to a mailing I’d sent to his area saying he had been thinking of getting a mountain bug out property for some time. After...
Fiat Money And Bartering
When most people hear the word “fiat”, they think of the Italian auto company that builds tiny cars sold via edgy television ads. However, when put into the financial world, “fiat money” simply means a sovereign (i.e. government) created paper...
JUST LISTED WNC CAMP PROPERTY
Going it alone may be for some, but for many of us, there is strength in numbers. Its just nice to sometimes have neighbors to call upon when needed. This property is ideally suited for just such a thing. The “Summer Camp” features 97 acres of secluded...
CLOSED ANOTHER ONE!
We’re pleased to announce that yesterday Retreat Realty served as the buyer’s agent on the closing of a 107 acre parcel in Wilkes County, NC. This was a beautiful gently rolling wooded property with several streams. It will make for a great prepper...
Emergency Trauma Treatment
When planning for a grid down situation and heading to one’s bug out location, much of the discussion centers around food storage, shelter and firearms. However, an equally important component is that of medical treatment. If such a situation should arise, you...
Heritage Life Skills Event
Whether you’re new to the idea of disaster preparedness or not, the Heritage Life Skills V is something I highly encourage you to attend. Held April 29th through May 1st at the Haywood County Fairgrounds outside Waynesville, it is the most comprehensive event...
Who You Gonna Call?
With the revival of the hit movie “Ghostbusters” and the tag line “Who you gonna call?”, it prompted me to raise the question about communications in an emergency situation. There are many significant areas in which one should be prepared,...
Do You Need a “Bug-Out Bag”?
In the prepper world, there is a lot of discussion about “bug out bags” or “get out of dodge (G.O.O.D) bags” meaning a backpack you keep close by that is filled with materials to help you get from wherever you may be when the lights go out to...
A Great Retreat Property in Ashe Co.
I recently walked a 208 parcel for a client in Ashe County, NC about 25 minutes northwest of the quaint town of West Jefferson. West Jefferson is a thriving mountain resort town where nearly every storefront in downtown is leased up. There’s even a...
Cooking with the Volcano
In a recent meeting with a group of like minded guys, we discussed food and its preparation. Several have made plans with 100 gallon propane tanks to hook up to grills. But in a long term grid down situation, propane will run out. Wood of course is a natural...
Bill Forstchen To Be Featured on Glen Beck
I just spoke with friend and Black Mountain neighbor, Bill Forstchen who informed me that he will be a guest on tomorrow night’s (February 17th) airing of the Glen Beck Show on The Blaze between 9 PM and 9:30 PM EST. So if you happen to be close to your...
60 Minutes
Last night “60 Minutes”, the CBS news show broadcast an interview by Scott Pelley of the current Director of the CIA, John Brennan. If you’ve read this blog in the past, you’ll recognize the name. I was particularly interested to hear his...
Vital Records
When a major natural disaster strikes, the American Red Cross and other relief agencies often set up temporary shelters in schools, churches and municipal buildings. The services these agencies and their volunteers provide is noble and often selfless. These...
Winter Storm Hits Home
As I write this post, according to Kentucky authorities, there are an estimated 3,000 vehicles stranded on I-75 buried in snow and have been there since the sun went down yesterday. It is now 9:25 AM. That means there are possibly 4,000 to 7,000 people stuck in...
Track Cyber-Attacks Live
My wife recently attended a company seminar on cyber-security where they were reminded of the importance of protecting their passwords and online information. But upon returning home, she told me about a website shown to them that she felt I and my readers would find...
What Makes a Good Retreat? – Vol. 5
In prior posts we’ve described the need for a low profile, low density, distance from town and having a water supply. Today we hit on the very simple, yet important aspect of proximity to your primary place of residence. For most of us, we can’t live at...
Duke Energy: Combating Cyber-attacks
The front page of the December 21, 2015 issue of the Asheville Citizen-Times featured an article about Duke Energy’s efforts to combat continued cyber-attacks on its critical systems. The fact that it is front page news focused on the largest power provider in...
The Pentagon Announces its Plan
In yet another acknowledgement of the possibility of a cyber-attack on our nation’s power grid, the Pentagon recently announced it is planning for such. The Rapid Attack Detection, Isolation, Characterization (RADICS) plan is to identify threats and respond...
What Makes a Good Retreat Property? – Vol. 4
A resource rich environment is worth its weight in gold. While it is smart to have a supply of materials to sustain you and your family for an extended crisis, its also important to be able to replace those stockpiled goods. Face it. If you have three months of...
Another Reason to Prepare
Yet another headline about a major power outage. This time, its in Crimea, the section of Ukraine which Russia recently annexed. Don’t think that this is a third world environment accustomed to such inconveniences. The Crimea may not have a Starbucks on every...
Paris – Friday the 13th
I am not a superstitious individual at all. Numbers and dates are just that: ways to record and communicate time and quantities. But Friday, November 13th will forever be etched in the minds of Parisians as this was the eve in which terrorists killed at least 129...
Ted Koppel Gets It
The idea of needing a survival retreat or preparations for disaster (man made or otherwise) is most often considered the realm of fringe actors and conspiracy theorists. However, it should be noted that numerous high ranking educated individuals see the risks and...
What Makes a Good Retreat Property? – Vol 3
For those of you who live in urban environments, the thought of packing up in an emergency and living on a 30 acre cabin or farm in the mountains may seem daunting. For some of you, that sounds almost as bad as staying put in Charlotte or Atlanta. So is there a...
One Second After
The catalyst that started me on the path to disaster preparedness was the moment I read the book “One Second After”. It is recognized in these circles as the seminal book on the subject. Its a fictional tale written by New York Times Best Selling author,...
Japanese Government Disaster Guide
Had an interesting conversation with close family members the other night who lived in Japan for many years in Osaka and Kobe, two extremely large metro areas. While there, they lived through the 1995 Great Hanshin Earthquake. Most of us here in the U.S. don’t...
What Makes A Good Retreat Property? – Vol. 2
Now that you know the importance of being off the beaten path, its important to look at the surrounding properties and land uses. Its not hard to find ten to fifty acres in these mountains, but who are the neighbors? First of all, it is best to own land that you can...
The Risk of “Normalcy Bias”
Its been said that the majority of the population lives with the mindset of “Normalcy Bias”. This means they are so accustomed to the conveniences and routines of life that there is no awareness of the fragility of those systems that keep things...
What Makes a Good Retreat Property? – Vol. 1
When planning a retreat property, you must consider many factors. Foremost on the list should be security. If the property isn’t defensible or well hidden, it won’t matter how many resources it offers or how comfortable it may be for your family. That...
Announcing Retreat Realty
After 28 years in the real estate business, John Haynes has launched Retreat Realty with the focus of helping forward thinking individuals locate properties that can provide them an “out of sight and out of mind” location as a safety measure when disaster...
Retreat Realty is an affiliate of Keller Williams Professionals of Asheville, NC. Each office is independently owned and operated.