Brian R Kelly

Category: For Buyers

  • Discover the Beauty of 351 Orme Mountain Road: A Gem in Tennessee Mountain Living

    Discover the Beauty of 351 Orme Mountain Road: A Gem in Tennessee Mountain Living

    Peaceful Mountain Waterfront Vista
    Personal 22 acre gated waterfront retreat

    Nestled amidst the breathtaking landscapes of South Pittsburg, TN, lies a property that embodies the essence of Tennessee Mountain living. Introducing 351 Orme Mountain Road, a private gated retreat that offers more than just a home; it offers an experience.

    A Sanctuary of Natural Beauty

    Imagine waking up to sweeping, unbelievable views of three states: Tennessee, Georgia, and the Alabama valley. As you sip your morning coffee, you’re not just looking at the horizon; you’re gazing at the heart of the Scenic City of Chattanooga and beyond.

    This 23-acre estate is a testament to the beauty and serenity that both Jasper Highlands and River Gorge Ranch celebrate. With its own 3-acre spring-fed lake, residents have the luxury to indulge in an aquatic playground. Whether it’s a lazy afternoon swim, fishing, or simply lounging by the lake with a book in hand, the options are endless.

    Modern Living Meets Rustic Charm

    But it’s not just the outdoors that captivates. Step inside, and you’re greeted by a wall of windows that frame the stunning views outside. The open-concept home, with its cathedral ceilings, seamlessly blends modern design with rustic charm. The kitchen, boasting a 12′ long butcher block island and a suite of Samsung stainless steel appliances, is a chef’s dream. And with gigabit fiber Internet and a robust 400 amps electrical service, modern conveniences are at your fingertips.

    The primary bedroom is on the main level with a bathroom with double vanity and soaking tub. Upstairs there is a balcony overlooking the living area and water. Walk outside on the second level to a deck overlooking the entire vista of the mountains and valley below. There are two additional bedrooms upstairs with a tub shower combo and double vanities.

    The property’s location near the active community of Jasper Highlands means residents have countless opportunities to relax, socialize, and enjoy the amenities. From workout facilities to the new Top of the Rock Restaurant and Brewery, there’s always something to do.

    Moreover, the proximity to River Gorge Ranch further enhances the property’s appeal. As a part of a stunning new gated community near Chattanooga, homeowners can experience serene mountain living without sacrificing convenience.

    The estate also offers potential for various ventures. Its vast expanse, combined with its picturesque settings, makes it an ideal spot for a wedding venue or corporate retreat. And with the added bonus of being minutes away from Franklin State Forest and Sewanee University of the South, there’s no shortage of activities to explore.

    In conclusion, 351 Orme Mountain Road isn’t just a property; it’s a lifestyle. It embodies the values and attractions that both Jasper Highlands and River Gorge Ranch champion. For those seeking a blend of luxury, nature, and modern conveniences, this estate is the perfect choice.

    Discover more about this property and others at BrianRKelly.com, where we celebrate the best of Tennessee living.

  • 2418 Woolson Road New Listing with Massive Pool on Missionary Ridge quiet dead-end street

    2418 Woolson Road New Listing with Massive Pool on Missionary Ridge quiet dead-end street

    Liberty Homes Chattanooga listed an all brick ranch featuring a 44,000-gallon L-shaped pool. The pool entertainment area is contained with new wooden privacy fencing. Party guests can access the home at the lower level or step up to brick paver patio and covered deck. The covered deck and patio overlook the swimming area. The deck and patio have doorways entering the kitchen as well as the den/great room area. There are nearly 3,000 square feet of living space.

    The home was built in 1962 but feels much younger. The owners, since 2017, replaced/installed the roof, windows, fixtures, glass doors, kitchen appliances and even the damper in the wood-burning fireplace. The kitchen features LG Studio stainless matching equipment with a convection oven. The new flooring in the basement which is daylight and opens to the pool and entertainment area has new lux waterproof 20-year vinyl. Many lighting fixtures are new. Click this link for video.

    The lot is 1.36 acres. There are 2 additional lots that face North Crest Road that are available that are not included in the listing. The location just off North Crest Road is convenient to downtown Chattanooga and to the abundant shopping and dining of the Hamilton Place Mall area. Schedule a tour of 2418 Woolson Road, Chattanooga, TN 37406 quickly, because the inventory of homes is really low. This one is sure to sell soon.

  • Chattanooga Home Sales Market

    The Chattanooga homes sales market is very good.  There are roughly 500 homes sales a month in Hamilton County, TN for 2017.  There are 1,500 homes currently listed in Chattanooga MLS for sale.  Three months of inventory is a very low historical number.

    Million dollar homes are selling at a record pace.  27 properties sold for $1,000,000 or more in the first seven months of 2017 in Hamilton County.  Only 15 sold in the same time period in 2016.  So the inventory of upper price properties has fallen from 4 years of inventory just a few years ago to 14 months in 2017.

    The average price per square foot has increased 10% ($112 to $123) from 2016 to 2017 when looking at homes selling in the $200,000 – $299,999.  New construction homes in the same price range are selling at $150/sqft and are around 1,800 sqft.  New home sales in this price range made up only 14% of overall sales.  Prior to 2008, new home sales made up roughly 20% of the Chattanooga market.

    So, if the market is so hot, then why is my house sitting on the market for months?  628 houses of the 1,509 houses for sale in Hamilton County, TN have been for sale over 90 days (41% !).  When most houses sell in less than 2 months, why do so many homes sit around?  My personal experience with buyers is they are wanting renovated or new properties.  If your home is dated and shows wear and tear with a premium price, then it will be over looked.  Buyers tend to charge much more in their mind for renovations when they see a property that does not capture their immediate “move in” mindset.  This is a gross blanket statement and so many variables are at stake.  Each property is unique and the reasons that make a home appealing to one person may be offensive to another.

    I showed homes to a family from California recently and they were escaping an urban environment east of LA desert.  Privacy and the peaceful lush green landscape was calling their name.  They wanted a few acres in a rural setting, which is not typical of many buyers.  The point being that shoppers want different lifestyle amenities and “feelings” based on their story.

    So, in conclusion, the Chattanooga home sales market is very stout.  You have to get to the $500,000 price range before you see double digit inventory levels.  The worst price category is only 14 months of inventory, which has been close to 48 months in the not so distant past.  We need more home sellers and builders to soak up the demand that we are currently generating.

    Liberty Homes Chattanooga has helped over 40 families in the last year, it will be an honor to serve you in selling your house or buying your new home !

  • Experience warmth at 3125 Pintail Lane Signal Mountain TN 37377

    Experience warmth at 3125 Pintail Lane Signal Mountain TN 37377

    Experience warmth at 3125 Pintail Lane Signal Mountain TN 37377.  You can be in a rich wood paneled den playing billiards or relax in the hot tub in the wooded back yard.  Either way you will feel cozy in this stately brick home near the cul-de-sac.  The home is located in Fox Run.  Fox Run started several decades ago and is still experiencing new home construction growth.  The tennis courts are a fun community feature not far away.

    The current owners have loved this home and updated it in so many ways.  New laundry room added, new bathroom added, kitchen upgrades, bathroom upgrades, hardwood staircase and treads, new lighting throughout, deck expansion and hot tub added, even the crawl space received a makeover with total encapsulation and de-humidifier.  You can see more photos here at Flex MLS Link .

    The children are grown and time for this family to relocate and transition into another stage of life.  You will now benefit from the care they have shown this beautiful home.  Come visit 3125 Pintail Lane, Signal Mountain, TN 37377 and see how your family can experience the warmth of this home.

  • Discover Best Lifestyle with 410 One North Shore Condo Rental Chattanooga TN

    Discover Best Lifestyle with 410 One North Shore Condo Rental Chattanooga TN

    Discover why the rental at 410 One North Shore condo gives you the best of Chattanooga lifestyle.  Living at 410 One North Shore gives your morning coffee a  richer flavor as you look out over the parks and Tennessee Aquarium from one of your two private outdoor covered balconies.  Views are wonderful from any room as the floor plan is open providing plenty of natural light in the dining and living room.  The open rooms have recently been decorated with a light neutral palette.  Each of the two bedrooms enjoy a door to the outside space of a covered patio.  The living space of the condo is subtly divided into a kitchen, dining, living and office area.  There are two full bathrooms and a separate laundry room.  410 One North Shore features over 1,600 square feet of heated and cooled space but also comes with an additional storage room.  If you do choose to use a car then you can venture out of your enclave using your remote gate opener to leave the lower parking deck because the unit comes with  2 side-by-side parking spaces in a lower secured garage.

    Life at One North Shore condominiums is becoming the standard for enjoying downtown Chattanooga and a growing North Shore area.  North Chattanooga is flourishing from new green space and trails of Renaissance Park, Coolidge Park, Walnut Street walking bridge,  Tennessee River access, along with new shopping and dining opportunities.  Whole Foods Grocery is a short walk across the road and Publix Grocery is just around the corner.

    Fitness opportunities are plentiful indoor and outdoors.  You can find your fitness niche in the area because just a few include the following:  yoga, paddle boarding, kayak, martial arts, trails, and swimming.  Water is one of One North Shore’s features with their resort style pool that allows you to walk in beach style.  You can enjoy the inside workout equipment at One North Shore fitness room if weather is bad.

    Your social life can only be enhanced with party areas such as the 6th floor penthouse club room, or the outdoor/indoor cooking and bar areas overlooking the pool at One North Shore.  North Chattanooga’s most popular vertical neighborhood also enjoys their very own concierge service.

    You can begin to imagine why 410 One North Shore condo rental on 200 Manufacturer’s Road provides you a unique Chattanooga lifestyle experience.  Schedule your visit to 410 One North Shore by calling Brian at 423-665-9768 and see this condo and rental opportunity in person. See more photos here at http://www.homes.com/property/200-manufacturers-rd-chattanooga-tn-37405/id-219002266/

    Youtube Video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1728gHjLWCU

  • Discovering Your Chattanooga Home, Work, School, Commute and Community Balance

    Discovering your Chattanooga home, work, school, commute and community balance. Juggling life in 2013 is a challenge. We live in a busy and loud culture. We long for a quiet and peaceful refuge for home. Home represents security, nurture and relationship. At breakfast this morning the conversation turned to finding the “right’ area to live.Brian and Ray with Snow

    Chattanooga is a unique patchwork of communities. I wrote about that in this blog for new comers. People who are new to town have a challenge as they consider different geographic areas and townships.

    I attended a men’s conference at church this weekend. Men were discussing where they lived. One young man commented on his commute time. He lived less than a mile from work. He commented on the fact that he filled up his car every 2 months. He was truly saving a lot of money in his budget because of his short drive.

    Another guy commented that he moved because he cut 45 minutes from his daily drive time and he was thankful to have additional time at home.

    The counter opinion was offered by a friend of mine who decided to move to the country. He has a farm and a 40 minute drive each way to work. He plans time to return phone calls on his blue tooth and listen to certain audio tracks for teaching and encouragement. He commented that he really wants to separate his work from the peace and quiet of his slower lifestyle on the farm away from the office.

    Men are concerned about protecting their family. School and community play an important role.

    The neighborhood that sold the most new homes in 2013 was Prairie Pass in Apison. That is East of Colledgedale, TN. Apison Elementary, East Hamilton Middle and East Hamilton High School are the schools that are zoned for this community. All the schools are very new and young. The “community” is a subdivision. 24 homes sold in the first 9 months of 2013 in Prairie Pass. The sales prices range from $189,000 to $295,000.

    Most of the men agreed that new construction was more desirable than “old” charm. The men were saying their wives liked the charm of older houses. So it is not surprising to me to see new homes being built with an old craftsman style, open eave look. The trade off for this newer home and younger school building is a lengthy commute.

    What is your choice of lifestyle? Discovering your Chattanooga home, work, school, commute and community balance can prove challenging on your journey in life.

  • Are you buying real estate? Look at the whole enchilada

    Are you buying real estate? Look at the whole enchilada.

    Helping a part time investor this evening look at a house. The area is on an upswing. Houses around are selling faster. He is excited.

    As an agent who has seen a few things, he asks what should I be concerned with? Look at it through the eyes of an investor who is buying for a long term hold. Here are some keys:Aerial View of Real Estate

    1. See what is around the property. What is the value of the homes adjacent and opposite side of street. What types of zoning are nearby?

    2. Land… is it sloping? Where is the water going? How has the water impacted the improvement?

    3. Vegetation – How old is it? Chattanooga has lots of trees. Trees provide shade but otherwise produce leaves, stopped up gutters, drains, roots rip up sidewalks, drives, foundations, etc.

    4. Structure – Stand on other side of street and go to corners. Take a look at how the roof lays. Is there any swag or humps? Walls.. are the walls bowed at all?

    5. Rust – indicator of moisture, possible flooding in basement, etc. Recently a buyer noticed rust on fireplace screen. Ventless gas log sets produce a lot of moisture as a by product of combustion. Something counter intuitive to many.

    6. Cracks in sheetrock – May indicate roof loads that are not adequately supported by piers, among many other things.

    7. Soft spots on floors near water, such as bathrooms, and kitchens. That is indication of past leaks and potential damage, possible termites.

    8. Foundation cracks. Stair stepped cracks = mostly settling issues. Straight line cracks through block = something worth considering a structural inspection.

    These are a few things I look at when helping a buyer with property. Good to be a detective to figure out the issues of real property. Are you buying real estate? Look at the whole enchilada.

  • What Would You Tell Your Younger Self?

    What would you tell your younger self? This is a frequently asked question of Entre Leadership podcasts from Dave Ramsey. It is a super question. I sometimes think if I could go back in time and have coffee with young Brian. What would I tell him? Here are a few topics:

    1. Turn to God frequently and for little things. Early in my adulthood, I thought my Maker wanted me to handle as much as I could on my own and rely on Him for the big important stuff. Wow… was I wrong on that one. God is into the details.Young Ross Man

    2. Embrace asking others for help. Learn to receive it. Slow down and ask for help.

    3. Invest in counseling early. You think you are only sporting a carry on. There are a few trunks of crap you ain’t seeing yet.

    4. Take more time with your beautiful wife. Shut up, face her, look her in the eyes and listen.

    5. Keep a journal daily and don’t give excuses about why you couldn’t do it. You need to find your heart.

    6. Be intentional about spending time with a few guys. Maybe take up golf earlier or play in a band, or camp/hike.

    7. Spend more time with your children when they are little and do not think that your work is so important. It isn’t.

    That is a good start to the coffee conversation… Oh, and one more thing Brian… wait one year before you sell your house in Franklin, TN. The value will nearly double. Oh… and yet just one more thing… buy some Apple stock. The brand will be stronger than Coca-Cola by 2013.

    What would you tell your younger self?

  • What is a Broker's Price Opinion?

    What is a Broker’s Price Opinion? Simply stated it is the opinion of a licensed real estate agent of the most likely sales price (value) of real property. The National Association of Realtors states a Broker’s Price Opinion (BPO) should contain 7 things in writing. They are as follows:

    1. The identity of a subject property
    2. The date of the opinion
    3. A defined price or value
    4. Limiting conditions (Statement of Purpose and Intended Users)
    5. Any interest of the agent including Agency Relationship to Owner
    6. Basis for Opinion and sources of Information
    7. If not an Appraisal by licensed Appraiser then state the fact

    On a practical level, number 3 is the most important. So, what determines a good value?

    Ever watch Antiques Road Show? People are so surprised or sad when the “expert” tells them the value of their heirloom. One common theme I hear from the evaluator is “in recent auctions, similar items sold for $3,500”. They are referencing what someone else was willing to pay for a like item.

    The same concept applies to homes. Recently sold properties (last 3 months) of nearby comparable properties provide best indicator of value. Value is so deceptive relative to square footage, floor plans, construction, and land. A good agent will make many adjustments for differences.

    Another factor I consider are the comparable homes that did not sell. Failures can bring out features the market is rejecting.

    I was with a seller today who knew what the adjacent homes sold for. She was curious why I did not give the same value to her home. Her home did not have re-finished hardwood throughout, or tile in bathroom, etc. Her home was roughly the same overall size but on 2 floors instead of one. All of these factors must be considered in the equation.

    Is a Broker’s Price Opinion (BPO) the same as an appraisal? No, it is not. An appraisal is made by a licensed professional Appraiser. Although they also look at recently sold properties, they are also looking at replacement construction value and perhaps income as well if investment property. Appraisals have specific formats generally for the benefit of lenders. Appraisals are great tools. BPO’s are great tools as well, because they will pick up on many subtle details that pertain to the current “buying public”. As an example… appraisers generally do not affect value based on aesthetics like colors, etc. Realtors are sensitive to those things because we listen to buyers constantly giving feedback. Realtors know that a seller’s specially decorated walls may only reach a small amount of buyers’s tastes.

    The best way to determine the most accurate value of a property is to hold a well advertised absolute auction. That will bring out the competition to level the marketing playing field. Most people are not comfortable with that approach, because the buyers may not think so highly of your place as you do. So the next best thing is to ask a Realtor for a BPO or broker’s price opinion. What is a Broker’s Price Opinion? The best professional determination of what your house is worth.

  • Real Estate Investor's Chattanooga House Disappears Suddenly

    Real estate investor’s Chattanooga house disappears suddenly. The house was lost forever but the land remained. Let me tell the story from the beginning.

    An investor came into my office (circa 2004) rather exited and said “the house I bought is gone!” This statement is not the usual way a broker starts his day. I invited him in to discuss the case of the missing dwelling. He started his story from the top…

    I went into this house which was in rough shape close to downtown Chattanooga. There was bad damage to parts of the structure,but it was not too much for my construction crew. I planned to repair the place within weeks and rent it out. The electricity was on, I made assumptions that it had been lived in recently.

    “A reasonable plan, although thorough inspections are best”, I said. “Continue”

    The investor said, “A carpenter I was planning on hiring lived down the road. He called me and said “I thought you were hiring me to work on the house down the street?” …”I am ” he told the carpenter. “Then why is a bulldozer and loader taking the place down?” “%#$%(12***”,,,I don’t know! .. was the owner’s reply.

    Confronting the workers, the owner found out the City of Chattanooga had condemned the property. The tear down had been scheduled for months. Even prior to his purchasing the property.

    Not only did the City tear down the building, they sent him a bill for the cleanup and disposal.

    After digging into the details, we found out several facts. The seller lived in another state. He had a received the notice of condemnation and hatched a plan of deception. He took down any of the condemnation notices, spruced up the property a bit and put it up for sale with a Realtor. His master act of cover up was bribing someone to get electricity to a property that had been condemned.

    How did the property transfer with a title search and insurance? Turns out that condemnation, at the time this happened, is not recorded at the courthouse. There are no recorded liens or encumbrances placed on the property for a condemnation action. The seller acted fraudently. The seller had not lived in the property; therefore, was exempt from filling out the long form of the Tennessee Property Disclosure.

    The investor could have sued the seller and the agency representing him. He chose not to pursue that action because of the expense and time to win.

    Moral of the story? Always dig to find out as much as you can about a property. A “great” visible deal may turn out to be like this real estate investor’s Chattanooga house suddenly disappearing.