A Place to Call Home in Mufreesboro: 1606 Glenhaven Drive
“We grow by our dreams.” ~ Woodrow T. Wilson
What a spacious home! This Murfreesboro home for sale has large rooms and high ceilings throughout. It will give you ample room for now and room to grow!

A spacious home for sale in Murfreesboro, TN. Please click on the image for more information and additional photos from The Lipman Group Sotheby's International Realty.
The home has a total of the bedrooms with the master suite on the main. The master suite is large enough to accommodate oversize furniture and a sitting area.

A master large enough to accommodate large furniture while remaining a place of comfort and repose. Click on the image for more information and additional photos from the Lipman Group Sotheby's International Realty.
Additionally, there is a living and family room, kitchen, breakfast nook and dining room on the main level. The family room has a vaulted-beamed ceiling and floor-to-ceiling stone fireplace. The beams, window and door casings are all stained wood and give added warmth to the space.

Exposed wooden beams call attention to the soaring ceilings in the living room. Click on the image for more photos and information from The Lipman Group Sotheby's International Reatly.
Upstairs you find two additional bedrooms and two full baths. There an open hallway that overlooks the family room below. The hall has stained bead board on the lower half of the way and gorgeous stained door casings off the hall.

A screened in porch is creates an additional living space during many months of the year in Murfreesboro.
From the main level you can access a screened porch, covered porch and open patio. Endless amounts of outdoor space for enjoying family and friends.
The home is practically calling for cookout every weekend.
The home is situated wonderfully large lot with a side drive that wraps around to the rear garage. Inside and out there is so much to enjoy.
3 bedrooms, 3 full baths and 1 half bath
Offered at $244,900
1606 Glenhaven Drive
Murfreesboro, TN 37130
For more information, please contact:
Chris Mannino
The Lipman Group Sotheby’s International Realty
chris.mannino@sothebysrealty.com
615.299.7995
3 Quick Kitchen and Bath Updates To Do Before Selling Your Home
Many people say it’s the kitchen and bathrooms that really sell a home.
Buyers prefer that both are clean and in move-in condition. They want to unpack their dishes and glassware as well as their toiletry bag and feel comfortable in their new home right away.
Many homeowners, however, don’t have the time, energy or financial resources for major kitchen and bathroom renovations. Perhaps during their time in the home, the seller focused on turning the basement into a media room or making necessary roof and siding repairs. When it’s time to sell, how can a cash-strapped seller appeal to buyers who want — even expect — an upgraded kitchen and bathroom?
Here are three affordable, quick, easy tips for sprucing up your kitchen and bath right before going on the market.
1. Paint the kitchen cabinets.

A fresh coat of paint to old kitchen cabinets gives the appearance of new. Photo from kitchen-news.info.
It would be too costly to go out and purchase new cabinets just before you sell. But you and your real estate agent despise the old knotty pine or dark grain cabinets from 20 years ago. A quick fix is to paint them white. It will make the kitchen appear lighter, brighter and cleaner. A fresh coat of paint will give the appearance of new, which will appease many buyers. This can be done in one or two days’ time for just a few hundred dollars.
2. Put some new hardware on the kitchen cabinets.
After you’ve brightened up the kitchen with some new paint, throw on some brushed nickel cabinet door hardware. This hardware with the new white paint in the backdrop will make the kitchen pop. Buyers’ eyes may be drawn away from the older counter tops or appliances. And, given that the cabinets are at or just above eye level, the hardware may be the first thing they notice in the kitchen. You can buy new hardware for just a few dollars and install them yourself
3. Re-grout or clean the bathroom tile and grout.

Cleaning or regrouting tile floors makes a huge difference to prospective buyers. Photo from Pro-Care Tile and Grout Cleaning of Nashville.
Bathrooms should be sanitary places and a new buyer wants to feel comfortable with their new bathroom. Nothing is more of a turn off than a bathroom where the grout is dirty or moldy or full of soap scum. At a minimum, spend an hour with a toothbrush and some bleach and scrub that grout. This is something you can do on your own in just a half a day. If the bathroom is too far-gone, you may want to spend the money on a tiler to regrout the tile. This will make the bathroom pop, giving a new, clean feeling to this important room
There may be other, more important projects for which you’ve budgeted. In many cases, your real estate agent may suggest painting some of the rooms a more neutral color or spending some money on storage for excess furniture. Staging and home preparation are unique for every home. But, given the focus buyers always put on kitchens and bathrooms, these three tips should be seriously considered as you prepare to go on the market.
Source: Zillow blog
Restaurant Review: Rosepepper Cantina in East Nashville
Okay Amigos, bust out your sombreros and head to East Nashville – it’s time for some Rosepepper Cantina!
Whether you’re looking for a fun night out with friends or a date night with a little kick, Rosepepper offers fabulous Mexican cuisine, a fun environment and margaritas that can’t be beat between here and Punta Mita! Along with your chips and yummy salsa, I highly recommend the buffalo white cheese dip to begin – WOW – think queso with a fabulous surprise.
I’m also quite a fan of their fajitas, whether you go marinated beef or chicken (or BOTH!), you won’t be disappointed. The Rosepepper Special is also a popular choice, which is shredded marinated beef or wonderfully seasoned chicken, served enchilada style and they are YUM–O!
SO, bring the family, bring the office, or hey, fly solo and head to Eastland Avenue where you’ll be right in the heart of Mexico. I mean, um, East Nashville – OLE!
Reviewed by:
Kelli Corbin Hudson
mobile: 615.830.7778
office: 615.463.3333
email: kellicorbinhudson@gmail.com
Sotheby’s International Realty Country Homes
The Sotheby’s International Realty network specializes in lifestyles from farm and ranch, vineyard, golf, to ski and waterfront living. Visitors can explore extraordinary properties that the Sotheby’s International Realty network represents all over the world and find a property that matches their lifestyle. If a fine trophy ranch, legendary horse farm or an iconic rural retreat is your definition of the perfect lifestyle, then we invite you to explore the many extraordinary farm and ranch style properties the Sotheby’s International Realty® network represents all over the world.
Below are country homes in Nashville and throughout the Sotheby’s International Realty network that offer a quiet retreat in the countryside.

This spectacular plantation estate in the heart of Tennessee, offered at $27,500,000, is one of the finest properties available in America today. The exquisitely craft 27,000 sq. ft. Georgian style manor house sits majestically on 700 acres of Williamson County's finest acres. This gently rolling property offers a stunning landscape of old-growth trees, creeks, orchards, crops and a glittering 12 acre pond. With an eight stall horse barn, 3 miles of riding trails, and a secluded log cabin, Eagles Rest will appeal to the equestrian family and outdoorsman alike. Click on the image for more photos and information from Sotheby's International Realty.

French manor and stud farm dating from 1536. Acres of woodlands and meadows with ranked river, This property is devoted to recreation with a park, 9 hole golf course, polo hunting, equitation and Calvados production. Also includes press, former grist and linseed mill, bread oven, dovecote and stables (32 stalls). Exceptional manor house thanks to its period features, reception rooms and its authenticity. Price upon request. Click on the image for more photos and information from Sotheby's International Realty.

Located in Loures, Portugal, 15 km from Lisbon, this amazing property is in a very quiet area with a wide plot, excellent sun exposure, several fruit trees, beautifully well maintained gardens, and a charming cottage with eight bedrooms, six full and two half baths. Close to several golf courses, it is the ideal choice for those seeking a quiet country lifestyle, only one step away from the city. Offered at $5,956,320. Click on the image for more photos and information from Sotheby's International Realty.

This wonderful property is perfect for someone looking to develop adventure tourism or a private get-away. With 750 meters of river front on the Futaleufu River, a world class rafting/kayaking/fishing river, the land is comprised of approximately 79 acres flat arable land and 123 acres of forested mountains, which has been replanted with 3,500 trees. The Lodge includes a large Quincho with 360 degree views, living room, dining room, large center fireplace, industrial kitchen, bar, outsized riverside deck, and wooden hot tub with views of Futa river. The current owner runs a highly successful luxury and adventure tourism operation. Offered at $4,700,000. Click on the image for more photos and information from Sotheby's International Realty.
Nashville’s Livability is an Economic Development Asset
According to a recent blog on BusinessClimate.com, “People are drawn to places where they can visualize themselves living and working and doing it better than anywhere else.” Livability is a factor with the power to either make or break a region, its companies and their employees. So what makes Nashville such a great region for a relocating talent and businesses? Three key reasons are Nashville’s talent attraction, anchor points and quality of life.
As Music City, Nashville naturally attracts the creative class that includes musicians and performers. Because the Nashville area’s economy is among the most diverse of that in any U.S. region, the region also continues to attract high-quality workers in all business sectors. Nashville supports many innovative and aggressive local programs to recruit workers to Middle Tennessee. Chamber-led workforce initiatives include programming targeted to young professionals, support of public education and higher education, the InternNashville program, an interactive CD-ROM, partnerships to support HR professionals and targeted industry worker attraction and retention.
According to BusinessClimate.com’s blog, “The more hospitals, colleges and universities in a city, the better the workforce and the higher the level of innovation and business development due to research and technology initiatives.” Nashville’s health care industry has a huge national and international impact. It impacts the economy each year by bringing in $30 billion and creating 210,000 jobs. Aside from health care, Nashville has numerous higher-education institutions. Nashville boasts 18 colleges and universities, and 100,000 college students. Sixty percent of the annual graduates remain in Nashville, and these educated workers help form the backbone of our workforce.
Quality of life is a primary reason so many relocate to Nashville. (As we write this, it is 54 degrees and sunny in January.) The region features all four seasons, and the average temperature ranges from 49 in the winter, to 89 in the summer time. To take advantage of beautiful days, people can flock to Nashville’s 92 public parks, 69 miles of greenways, six state and national parks, two recreational lakes, 56 public and private golf courses and many other recreational places. More nationally recognized is Nashville’s art scene. The thirst for good music is easily quenched with Nashville’s 124 performance venues, 79 live music houses, 49 performing arts halls, and more than 120,000 seats in a wide array of entertainment space. Nashville has its own opera, ballet, symphony, children’s theater, art galleries and almost anything someone could want in the arts. As for sports, Nashville is home to two major-league teams: the NFL’s Tennessee Titans and the NHL’s Nashville Predators.
Talent development and quality of place/livability are key strategic drivers of the Chamber’s Partnership 2020 economic development strategy. The amenities of our great city attract people – which, in turn, attracts strong companies and creates an ideal environment for businesses to grow and prosper.
If you or someone you know is planning on relocating to Nashville, click here to refer to our relocation guide courtesy of Kelli Corbin Hudson, Relocation Director of The Lipman Group Sotheby’s International Realty.
World’s Best Places to Live in 2012
If you dream of living abroad, it can be hard to pin down the perfect place to buy. Sotheby’s International Realty and The Telegraph reveal the top 10 locations to live abroad voted by Telegraph readers. Some are familiar and some are most definitely not.
1. Hong Kong
A dynamic, sometimes frantic city, with apartments that are distinctly small and usually 30 or 40 floors up. That’s the bad news. The good news is that Hong Kong is exciting yet safe, and a 30-minute ferry ride from the city centre will take you to tranquil spots such as Lamma Island.
Hong Kong is not really somewhere to put your feet up, but a city to enjoy while your energy levels are at their maximum.
It is best to get the lie of the land by renting first, advises realtor Mitchell Lewis. “You’re looking at £5-6,000 for a reasonable place to rent per month. If you’re buying, it is £800,000 for an apartment on a lower floor, and about £1.25 million for a higher floor. But you need to hold your nerve. Hong Kong is renowned for drastic market swings.”
For sale Hong Kong Parkview, Repulse Bay. A four-bedroom duplex apartment with mountain and harbour views. £1.2 million. Sotheby’s International Realty (00 852 3108 2108; hksothebysrealty.com)
2. New York City
You’re never bored in New York. There are theatres, restaurants, ice-skating in Central Park and helicopter rides over the city.
But living here is no picnic. Stumble over your order at the deli, and the guy behind the counter will lose patience. And while no one talks louder than New Yorkers, what speaks loudest of all is money. This is especially true in the property market.
“A nice flat on the Upper East Side will cost you between £550,000 and £650,000,” says Kathy Coumou of Christie’s International Real Estate, who quotes the average price of a Manhattan apartment as £900,000.
3. North Island, New Zealand
The east coast of North Island gets many of our readers’ votes. The vine-rich island of Waiheke, a ferry ride from Auckland, and the town of Whakatane, on the Bay of Plenty are particularly popular.
Buying in New Zealand is easy. Getting permanent residence is not. Most likely candidates are those under 56 with specific skills. Nurses, electricians and mechanics are currently in demand.
Once there, prospects are bright. A survey by the New Zealand Immigration Service found 88 percent of those who had moved there from the UK and Ireland felt settled in their new country. Expect to pay £200,000 for a simple, three-bedroom beachside house in Whakatane, or £500,000 for a designer ocean-front property of the same size, but out of town.
4. The Turks and Caicos Islands
There are 48 islands in the Turks and Caicos. The most developed is Providenciales, known to locals as “Provo”. One much-loved area is Long Bay Beach, described by one reader as “the perfect location to ease away your aches and pains.” Others love the reefs, for diving and snorkelling, and the fine restaurants.
“Where we differ from some Caribbean islands is that we are very much a destination for high net-worth individuals“, says estate agent Robert Greenwood, raised in Tooting, but a Turks and Caicos man for the past 32 years (www.theturksandcaicos.com). “You get permanent residency rights provided you purchase a property worth over £320,000.”
That’s the headline news. The small print is that the Turks and Caicos Islands are neither near (a 10-12 hour flight from Britain) nor cheap. Prices start at £650,000, rising to £6.5-13 million for a private island estate and 10-bedroom mansion at Parrot Cay.
Permanent residency rights are extended only to those with property worth more than £320,000.
5. Tasmania
It’s not just the place names (Launceston, Devonport) that evoke the Old Country, it’s the atmosphere, too. There are “pretty villages, stone churches and quiet open roads perfect for real motorists”, declares a Telegraph expat in the east-coast town of Woodbridge.
A historic mansion will set you back £4 million or more, but for £400,000, you can buy a large, river or ocean-side property, with a couple of acres.
Australia is cautious when it comes to issuing residency rights. To buy a property, you must have permission from the all-powerful Foreign Investment Review Board. The board can take 130 days to say yes or no to your application. And if you sell up and buy another property in Australia, you must go through the same process all over again.
Click here to continue the slideshow of world’s best places to live in 2012.
So tell us, which location would you consider one of the world’s best places to live?
Who Needs Super Bowl Tickets When You’ve Got a Man Cave?
It may sound like a football fan’s dream to attend a Super Bowl game live and in person. But really? Indianapolis? In February?
Unless you are a rabid fan of the New York Giants or the New England Patriots — the conference champs who will square off in Super Bowl XLVI on Sunday, Feb. 5 at the Lucas Oil Stadium — there really are better places to watch the NFL title game.
Like, a tricked-out, beer-tapped man cave!
Homes with “man caves” — or rooms with giant TVs, sports memorabilia, wet bars, and comfy couches — have grown in popularity over the years and have become the go-to place on big game days. Or, dare we say big movie nights?
Just in time for the big game, we found some Sotheby’s International Realty homes for sale with man caves that offer the ultimate place to watch on Super Bowl Sunday. So, sit back, pop a cold one and pass the chips and dip while we tour a few man cave beauties.
1037 Vaughn Crest Drive, Franklin, TN 37069 (above)
For Sale: $3,995,000
Masterfully crafted gated estate located in LaurelBrooke. With exotic hardwoods, hand hewned beams, elevator, salt water heated pool & spa, and climate controlled veranda. The terrace level features the ultimate man cave complete with theater room, wine cellar, sauna, wet bar, and adjacent billiards and ping pong tables.
Eastern Townships, Lac-Brome, Quebec, Canada
For Sale: $8,959,393
Tredilion Park english manor built and designed by James Wright and Scott Yetman in 2005. The ground floor is devoted to daytime activities, the first floor is allotted to the bedrooms and the library’s upper level, and the basement houses the entertainment areas. This sophisticated and professionally designed man cave is adjacent to a full bar, wine cellar, and sauna.
3594 Tuxedo Court, Atlanta, GA 30305
For Sale: $4,850,000
Incredible estate in Atlanta’s Tuxedo Park. Located on a quiet enclave of only 8 homes, this property has had a complete renovation in 2010. Architecturally designed to maximize natural lighting with huge doors that open to a loggia, outdoor kitchen, 2 pools with waterfalls and a grotto. Very private smart home with attached guest house, elevator, and fully finished terrace level including a man cave/media room, wine cellar and full kitchen, billiards and second loggia to lower pool.
9124 Eagle Point Loop Rd SW, Lakewood, WA 98498
For Sale: $1,295,000
Cars, kitchen, couches, and TVs – what more could a guy ask for? “Designed for a car enthusiast,” this 7,800-sq ft home sits on a gorgeous, waterfront parcel of Lakewood real estate with 3 bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms, 2 dining rooms, library, hobby room, and a 1,000-sq ft entertaining deck. The only space needed this weekend, however, is the “man cave,” which is equipped with a full kitchen, car elevator, bathroom, workshop, and adjacent billiards room.
Sources: Zillow Blog and Sotheby’s International Realty
What Does Warren Buffet Think About Buying A Home?
Warren Buffet is seen by many as the greatest investor of our time. When he speaks, people listen. Like anyone else in his position of influence, he is criticized by some for using his bullhorn to promote his own business agendas at times. That makes it very interesting when we occasionally learn of how he privately advises those closest to him.
Such a situation occurred this week. Debbie Bosanek, Warren Buffet’s secretary of 37 years, recently purchased a second home in Surprise, Arizona.
In an article in the Omaha World Herald, Mrs. Bosanek discussed her reasons for purchasing a second home and the personal advice she received from Mr. Buffet.
“I just thought it was time to buy a home. Warren tells me that it will be the best opportunity in my lifetime. Mortgage rates are low and prices have dropped dramatically…I share Warren’s view about the future of America, and we believe that our country will do just fine. I’m happy to make this investment.”
The greatest investor of the last century privately has told the people closest to him that buying a home right now “will be the best opportunity in [their] lifetime”.
That’s good enough for us. How about you?
Source: KCMBlog
New Green Hills office for Nashville luxury real estate company The Lipman Group Sotheby’s International Realty
Presenting a video tour of the new luxury real estate office of The Lipman Group Sotheby’s International Realty. Conveniently located in Nashville’s Green Hills, our ground floor office has easy access to parking….and to the most extraordinary agents and properties in the world.
Please come by and have a cup of coffee in the The Lipman Group Cafe, and tour the entire new space.
We are located at:
The Lipman Group Sotheby’s International Realty
2002 Richard Jones Road
Suite C-104
Nashville, TN 37215
(Map)
Our phone number has remained the same: 615.463.3333.
We look forward to serving our real estate customers and clients from our beautiful new space!
Experience a new SothebysRealty.com
The Sotheby’s International Realty digital marketing strategy begins with sothebysrealty.com, a website re-architected to be the core of interconnected websites and digital marketing partnerships. With about 4 million unique visitors, (38% from outside the United states), spending 13 minutes on average viewing 55 million pages annually, sothebysrealty.com is the source of luxury real estate content. No matter if you click, tap or swipe you can experience the unique through sothebysrealty.com.

New to the website: five specialty markets ranging in lifestyles from farm and ranch, vineyard, golf, to ski and waterfront living.
Also new to the site are five pages made specifically for specialty markets. The Sotheby’s International Realty network specializes in lifestyles from farm and ranch, vineyard, golf, to ski and waterfront living. Visitors can explore the extraordinary properties the Sotheby’s International Realty network represents all over the world and connect with a professional who can help find a property that matches their lifestyle.
Finally, sothebysrealty.com represents the starting point of a comprehensive online marketing strategy that expands the exposure of homes to the most significant media companies and real estate focused websites in the world.
Restaurant Review: Margot Café in East Nashville
I could almost be back in Italy. The scene is warm and quaint with exposed original brick and a loft supported by generous wooden beams. The staff is friendly, the crowd is coming in, and the aromatics are reminding me why I came: to eat perfectly prepared, locally and regionally grown foods in a way I can only find at Café Margot.
With a menu changing daily based on Margot’s latest local finds, there is something on the menu for everyone. Handmade pastas, homemade pizzas and a house ice cream each night will not only leave your appetite satisfied, you’ll start planning your return.
The menu begins with Course One. Here you’ll find surprisingly filling and tasty starters such as homemade focaccia bread or house made chips served with aioli. Both are delicious though I highly recommend the bread with the herb infused olive oil. In Course Two, you’ll find an unbelievable seasonal soup, a homemade pizza and other perfectly prepared small plates. Course Three is your main meal, and I really don’t know how you’ll choose. I do find the handmade pastas are divine, but you’ll also find a “fish dish” or two that are great, a roasted chicken that is cooked perfectly to a golden brown, and a few surprises along the way such as Rabbit Confit. I’ve heard from several that the Duck is out of this world and their favorite meal Margot prepares.
Finally, I must encourage you to skip whatever necessary (or hey, just indulge!) to enjoy the amazing ice cream of the evening. From almond in the summer to egg nog in the winter, I haven’t found one that I couldn’t finish.
Whatever you choose for any course, I don’t foresee you being disappointed and be sure to meet Bryan at the bar who is great at helping you pick a wine to pair with your cuisine. Come hungry. Make reservations. Bon appetit!
Reviewed by:
Kelli Corbin Hudson
mobile: 615.830.7778
office: 615.463.3333
email: kellicorbinhudson@gmail.com
Luxury and Quality in this Home for Sale in Woodmont Waye
The results of quality work last longer than the shock of high prices. ~Author Unknown
Quality craftsmanship and unbelievable appointments are what you find in this five-year old home for sale in the Woodmont Waye subdivision in Nashville’s most perfect location.

An example of quality workmanship with thoughtful details is found in this home for sale in Nashville's Woodmont Waye subdivision. Please click on the image for more photos & information from The Lipman Group Sotheby's International Realty.
Open the quaint iron gate, step onto the stoop, and up to the solid wooden door. Surrounding you is rustic, old brick adorning the exterior of the home. Open that gorgeous wooden door and reclaimed and refurbished wood floors greet you throughout.

A gorgeous living room contributes to the natural flow of the floorplan, and is enveloped in crown molding and coffered ceilings.
Wood details such as crown molding, coffered ceilings and crown moldings are apparent in almost every room. Custom cabinetry can be found in the family room, baths and spacious kitchen. The main level also has a magnificent office with wainscoting perfect for the professional who enjoys working from home or for a home library.

The kitchen is fully stocked with high-end appliances and positioned for entertaining. Please click on the image for more photos and information from The Lipman Group Sotheby's International Realty.
The kitchen has a grand island with granite countertops and a beverage cooler. Stainless appliances include double ovens and gas cooktop. The kitchen has more than enough storage for all of your cooking and entertaining treasures. It is truly the home chef’s dream all in a beautiful package.

A master suite that answers every question of luxury. Please click on the image for more photos and information.
The home has three bedrooms with a dream master suite. Imagine an in-suite office or separate sitting area, a coffee or wine bar and all the privacy you desire. The in-suite bath has split vanities and separate tub and shower….indeed a delightful retreat.
There are extraordinary bonuses here too! An in-home elevator accesses all levels, a wonderful sunroom with gracious windows is perfect year round and an unbelievable fitness room will keep you from having to leave for the gym for an early morning workout.

An elevator serves all three levels of this luxury home for sale....from the gym to the public areas to the private retreats above. Click on the image for more photos and information.
This is a wonderfully spacious and well-appointed home. Certainly those accustomed to the finer things will enjoy the luxury found here.
Three Bedroom, Two Full Baths and One Half Bath
Offered at $850,000
133 Woodmont Blvd #B
Nashville, TN 37205
For more information, please contact:
Lawrence Lipman
The Lipman Group Sotheby’s Realty
larry.lipman@sothebysrealty.com
615.463.3333
Tips for Fireplace and Furnace Safety
Regular inspection and servicing of fireplaces and furnaces adds to comfort, makes them more economical, and most important, keeps them safe. Regular inspections can prevent a deadly house fire or the introduction of a silent killer: carbon monoxide.
Here’s our checklist to keep you cozy and safe during the winter months:
Wood-burning fireplaces
1. Inspection by a certified chimney sweep is a must. For heavy use, the chimney should be inspected and cleaned annually. Go up to five years if the fireplace is used only occasionally. The sweep should inspect for proper operation of the damper and for cracks in the flue liner, as well as sweeping the flue to remove creosote and other combustion byproducts.
2. Close the damper when the fireplace isn’t in use.
3. Install a chimney cap if you don’t already have one. You don’t want creatures building their nest in your flue.
4. When starting a fire, “prime” the flue by holding lighted newspaper at the back wall of the firebox to start the warm air rising.
5. Burn aged, dry hardwood if possible. Fir or pine burns hot and deposits creosote in the chimney. Don’t burn construction debris. It may contain toxic chemicals that will vaporize in the fire and could enter the living space.
6. Do not clean out the fireplace when the ashes are still hot. And dispose of the ashes in a place where wayward embers won’t start a fire.
Fireplace with gas starter
1. If the flame goes out, wait at least five minutes before attempting to relight the fireplace. This allows time to clear the fireplace of gas.
2. Be alert for unusual odors or odd-colored flames, which are often a sign that the fireplace is not operating properly. In such cases, contact your dealer or licensed technician for servicing. Contact the gas company if you smell gas when the unit is off.
Gas furnace maintenance
1. An annual maintenance check of a gas furnace extends the life of the appliance and ferrets out any hidden problems. A qualified heating contractor should vacuum out the unit, inspect the blower motor, inspect the heat exchanger for cracks, check the electronics and perform a multipoint checklist to make sure the furnace is operating properly.
2. Clean or replace the furnace filter frequently during the heating season. This ensures that air returning from the inside of the house is unobstructed and clean when entering the combustion chamber.
3. Keep vents, space heaters and baseboards clear of furniture, rugs and drapes to allow free air movement.
4. Ensure there is free airflow around your furnace and make sure there are no storage items obstructing airflow.
5. Do not store or use combustible materials, such as chemicals, paint, rags, clothing, draperies, paper, cleaning products, gasoline, or flammable vapors and liquids in the vicinity of the furnace.
6. Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless and lethal gas that can occur any time there is incomplete combustion or poor venting. Any home that contains fuel-burning appliances, such as a fireplace or furnace, should have a carbon monoxide alarm installed according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
These tips are courtesy of Inman News and Lowe’s. Click here for more information.
Video of Home for sale in Franklin, TN – 222 Winburn Lane
Beautiful home in absolutely move-in condition in Franklin’s River Landing subdivision. Five bedrooms, tons of storage, level lot, and architectural accents throughout. Crown moldings, wainscoting, trey ceilings, and all at an amazing price!
We invite you to watch this short video about the home, or click on the image below for more information and photos.

Located at 222 Winburn Lane Franklin,TN 37069 in the River Landing subdivision. Please click on the image for more information from The Lipman Group Sotheby's International Realty.
222 Winburn Lane
Franklin, TN 37069
Five bedrooms, four baths
Offered at $549,900
For more information, please contact:
Chris Mannino
The Lipman Group Sotheby’s International Realty
615-299-7995
chris.mannino@sothebysrealty.com
Where to live in Nashville: Video of Green Hills
We love writing about Green Hills in Nashville – it’s an easy topic because homes there are just gorgeous and when you live there, you’re surrounded by many comforts.
Green Hills is an upscale neighborhood home to expansive lot for iconic Southern homes and estates. Known also for The Mall at Green Hills, this area of Nashville is established as the hub of chic stores and upscale shopping. The historic Bluebird Cafe calls Green Hills its home as does many of Nashville’s best public schools, including a few in the Top Five Elementary Schools in Nashville.
We love Green Hills so much that we have added it to the neighborhoods we’re profiling through video. Enjoy the video about Green Hills below, or click here to see all the Lipman Group Sotheby’s International Realty videos.
Pending Home Sales Post Strong Gain
Pending home sales rose strongly in October and remain above year-ago levels, according to the National Association of Realtors®.
The Pending Home Sales Index*, a forward-looking indicator based on contract signings, surged 10.4 percent to 93.3 in October from 84.5 in September and is 9.2 percent above October 2010 when it stood at 85.5. The data reflects contracts but not closings.

The Pending Home Sales Index* surged 10.4 percent to 93.3 in October from 84.5 in September and is 9.2 percent above October 2010 when it stood at 85.5. The data reflects contracts but not closings.
Lawrence Yun, NAR chief economist, said improved contract activity is a hopeful sign. “Home sales have been plodding along at a sub-par level while interest rates are hovering at record lows and there is a pent-up demand from buyers who normally would have entered the market in recent years. We hope this indicates more buyers are taking advantage of the excellent affordability conditions,” he said.
“Many consumers are recognizing that home buyers in the past two years have had one of the lowest default rates in history. Moreover, continued inventory declines are another healthy sign for the housing market,” Yun added.
“Although contract signings are up, not all contracts lead to closings. Many potential home buyers inadvertently hurt their credit scores and chances of getting a mortgage through easily averted actions, such as cancelling an old credit line while taking on a new one,” Yun said. “Such actions could unwittingly prevent buyers from obtaining a mortgage if their credit score is close the margins of qualifying, or they might get a loan but with less favorable terms.”
NAR encourages consumers to be aware of their credit score and actions which could hurt or enhance it. HouseLogic.com, the association’s consumer website devoted to all aspects of homeownership, offers tips for improving credit scores here.
To view the full article and a video report, visit the National Association of Realtors®.
*The Pending Home Sales Index is a leading indicator for the housing sector, based on pending sales of existing homes. A sale is listed as pending when the contract has been signed but the transaction has not closed, though the sale usually is finalized within one or two months of signing.
Efficient Home Design from Best-Selling Author Sarah Susanka
Sarah Susanka, architect and best-selling author of the “Not So Big House” books, has just finished her newest example of building a right-sized home.
The home, in the School Street neighborhood of Libertyville, Ill., is 2,450 square feet on two floors and sits on a small and narrow lot, 29 feet wide by 100 feet long. The home’s interior spaces are lined up in a row; each has a west-facing window that lets in plenty of sunshine on cold winter days.
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The plans show how the home’s linear plan of one room deep spaces is positioned to gather as much light as possible. This approach allows some passive heating of the house during those cold Illinois winters, reduces the home’s carbon footprint, and saves on energy bills.
Click here for more images from the tour of Sarah Susanka’s newest right-sized house on Houzz.com.
Chic condo for sale in Downtown Nashville’s Viridian
Nashville photographer Binny Harke will feature his artwork in this home during the month of December. The exhibit will be selected works from “A Closer Look”, featuring iconic signs and instruments from well-known Nashville places and musicians. Please stop in to enjoy the art, the view, and The Viridian!

See selected works of art from Binny Harke at The Viridian the first weekend of December, in unit #1210.

The Viridian was named the Project of the Year by the Urban Land Institute's Atlanta District Council.
Numerous amenities and details galore make living at the Viridian in Downtown Nashville the first choice for Nashville hipsters. The modern lobby with coffee bar and 24-hour concierge feel like you are in a five –star hotel every morning. The on-premise Urban Market makes it a dream come true. It’s a
piece of cake to host an impromptu party, serving the finest meats, pastries and beverages, when you pass this Nashville tradition inside your lobby each day!
And of course you are going to want to host those parties when you see unit 1210 with its spectacular views and modern finishes. Hardwood floors in all common living areas and 10 foot ceilings are just the beginning.
The open kitchen has stainless steel appliances and black granite countertops paired with lightly stained wood cabinetry. Guests will admire the black tile backsplash and small details like coordinating stainless pulls on the cabinets. It’s the little things that were not forgotten that add to the vibe here. Or they may prefer to gaze out the windows. There are floor-to-ceiling windows everywhere; open your blinds for a beautiful view of the Nashville lights.
The home has one bedroom and one full bathroom, which has granite countertops, a deep garden tub and ample cabinetry for storage. The master bedroom has been appointed with a California Closet system.
The building offers a roof-top pool, fitness center and much more. High rise living does not get much better than this.
One Bedroom and One Baths
$205,500
415 Church Street
#1210
Nashville, TN 37219
Please click here to see more photos and information about this condo for sale in the Viridian.
For more information about this downtown Nashville condo for sale, please contact:
Michele Trueba
The Lipman Group Sotheby’s International Realty
michele.trueba@sothebysrealty.com
615.424.0400
Selling Your Home During The Holidays
When you look at your holiday calendars you may find the months already overloaded with seasonal obligations — shopping, entertaining, children’s pageants, charity work, decorating the house, and so much more. If you are also trying to sell your home, you are under extra pressure to keep your home in “showtime” condition. And that could be the last thing you need before the holiday spirit is broken.
It is understandable why you would be tempted to take your home off the market during the holidays. Better to just pack it in and start fresh in January, right?

This renovated Elizabethan home is currently listed at $495,000. Click on the photo for more images and information from The Lipman Group Sotheby's International Realty.
Not exactly. Top-selling REALTORS® say taking your home off the market during the Christmas season is a mistake. Jennie Ling, a vice president of Virginia Cook REALTORS® and the number one sales person in her company for almost every one of her more than 35 years in the real estate business, says ”The holidays are my best-selling period. Why? Because most people take off work sometime during the season. The husband and wife are both off and want to see houses. I showed homes on New Year’s Day last year. I like the holidays because the buyers have more time, and they can look at homes together.”
Before you take your home off the market, consider the following points:
- Although buyer activity may appear to slow down, the buyers who are actively looking during the holidays are that much more serious. Ling believes the home market is no more affected at Christmas than during other “busy” period. If that were so, the market would shut down throughout the year as families concentrate on spring weddings, June graduations, summer vacations, and autumn back-to-school activities.
- Many buyers deliberately choose to shop for a home after the busy spring and summer rush. They know that it will be easier to look, and that negotiations will be less stressful. They may not have children, or they may have grown children, so moving to accommodate the school year isn’t a consideration. Finding the right home at the right price, however, is.
- Relocating families often don’t have a choice in when they can leave for their new destination. Although 68 percent of transferring families have children, many families have to transfer during the middle of the school year. These families are that much more motivated to get their families settled in either before the January semester begins, or to arrange for the move during spring break in March. If you sign a contract by New Year’s Eve, the timing couldn’t be more perfect.
- At Christmastime, our culture focuses on family and the home. Preparing for the indoor activities of winter is one of the most enjoyable periods of family life. Allowing buyers to view your home during this most hospitable of seasons lets them better picture their own family life in the attractive environment you have created.
- With reduced inventories and motivated buyers, you will have all the members of the MLS on your team. You may find you have more showings than you would if you marketed your home during a busier time of the year.
- If you do get a contract, you can arrange the terms to suit your needs. If moving during the holidays isn’t an option, you can put in the closing date of your choice. “Most people can close 30 to 60 days after a contract is written, so there is plenty of time,” Ling says. “Possession and closings are are very negotiable.”
Click here for more points on selling your home during the holidays from RealtyTimes.
Where to live in Nashville: East Nashville
East Nashville is an up-and-coming area east of downtown Nashville across the Cumberland River. The area is mostly residential and mixed-use areas with businesses lining the main boulevards. The main thoroughfare is Gallatin Avenue and Ellington Parkway with smaller arteries interconnecting the neighborhoods.
East Nashville is an area of creative and artistic flair. It has a trendy progressive atmosphere and after ten plus years of a slow and steady rise, the neighborhood has managed to keep its eclectic, artsy vibe while welcoming a diverse mix of newcomers.
Like it attracted many in the late 19th century, it continues to attract young urban professionals and liberal minds because of the easy-going environment and quaint neighborhood qualities. There are many coffee shops and art galleries interwoven within the neighborhoods making it a bikers’ or walkers’ paradise.
Unique and notable restaurants include Margot Cafe, Marche Artisan Foods, Batter’d and Fried, Pied Piper Creamery and Pied Piper Eatery, and Sweet 16th Bakery. The Tomato Art Fest is a popular summer festival in East Nashville specifically at the Five Points, where Woodland, Clearview and 11th streets intersect. There are many other festivals and fairs throughout the year also.
East Nashville has many smaller neighborhoods, each with their own character and housing styles. Historic houses fill these smaller neighborhoods, along with some residential redevelopment in the outer neighborhoods since it has been spreading from the Edgefield area and more young people are calling it home.

This home for sale at 407 Bushnell St sits on Shelby Golf Course in East Nashville. Listed at $499,000. Click on the image for more information and photos from The Lipman Group Sotheby's International Realty.
Information courtesy of Wikipedia and East-Nashville.com.
Brentwood video: home for sale in Chestnut Springs

Brentwood. 9723 Northfork Drive, offered at $264,900. Click on the photo for more images and information from The Lipman Group Sotheby's International Realty.
9723 Northfork Road
Brentwood, TN 37027
Three bedrooms, three full bathrooms
Offered at $264,900
Click here for more information about this home for sale in Brentwood, or contact:
Margaret Odle
The Lipman Group Sotheby’s International Realty
maggie.odle@sothebysrealty.com
615.491.4321









































