Enjoy a Tasting Tour of Cherokee County Wineries

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Looking for a great bottle of wine? Rather than browsing through your Murphy, NC supermarket or convenience store, hoping that something catches your eye, we’d rather you engage in a treasure hunt. In other words, go straight to the source. Plan an expedition to our Cherokee County wineries, where you can taste and purchase the libation of your dreams.

What makes our wines so desirable? Well, Cherokee County sits smack in the middle of some ideal grape-growing country. We’ve got super-rich soil, generally mild winters, and months of sunshine and warmth that really nurture the grapes along. After they’re harvested, the real work begins, with each local winery devoting considerable attention to the fermentation and bottling process. Best of all, you get to enjoy the fruits of their labors.

Let’s begin our winery tour at Calaboose Cellars in Andrews, North Carolina. We wrote a post about them back and 2011, and they’re thankfully still here! Just off U.S. Highway 19/74/129 about 15 minutes from Murphy, Calaboose Cellars is located at 565 Aquone Road off Main Street in Andrews. Look for the copper-colored tin roof on the small stone building overlooking the vineyard. The little stone “calaboose” gives this quirky winery its distinctive name.

According to local legend, town law enforcers stashed lawbreakers in this sturdy jail until their appearance before the magistrate. Wait till you see it and it’s size first hand – you’ll understand why it wouldn’t be the comfiest arrangements. It makes for great history though.

Today, Calaboose Cellars’ website calls this little country lockup the “smallest free-standing complete winery in America.” Along with quality fermentation equipment, this multiple-award-winning winery boasts a covered, nicely furnished tasting room that overlooks the lush vineyard. “The Warden” happily offers winery tours (and he probably won’t lock you up if you misbehave). Check the winery’s website for business hours, and consider booking the tasting room for special events.

Next, head over to Cherokee Cellars Winery in the heart of Murphy, just across the street from The Daily Grind. This downtown winery occupies a different wine-making niche, as the winemakers source their grapes and juice from nearby commercial vineyards in North Carolina and north Georgia. Every vineyard has its own microclimate and soil composition, so each one specializes in certain varieties of grapes that thrive in those growing conditions. Of course, yearly weather pattern changes can make the difference between a high-quality crop…or sour-tasting grapes fit only for the birds.

Next, Cherokee Cellars hauls those top-of-the-line grapes to its downtown Murphy, NC winery. Skilled vintners make, blend, and bottle the wine right on the premises. When each vintage is ready, Cherokee Cellars makes it available for tasting and purchase. From April through December, the winery operates a warmly decorated tasting room and wine-themed gift shop. Visitors can sample several award-winning wines, and take their favorite varieties home.

Finally, visit scenic Nottely River Valley Vineyards, located just west of Murphy at 1150 Old Culberson Road, off Spur 60. The 10-acre vineyard/winery operation is ideally situated on a generations-old family farm, with gently rolling hills as the backdrop. Even better, the vineyard’s location, natural soil drainage, mineral availability, cool moist mornings, and full sun exposure comprise literally perfect growing conditions.

Nottely River Valley Vineyards uses a “minimal-intervention” wine-making process, beginning with high-density plantings of excellent-quality grape varieties. Through leaf pruning, cluster thinning, and limited fruit production, the winery consistently achieves superb results.

Although Nottely River Valley Vineyards is a relatively new winery, their dedicated winemakers have successfully produced four noteworthy vintages. To taste and purchase them, visit the winery’s tasting room on Friday and Saturday afternoons, from May through November.

Mountains and wine what more could be more appealing? The only way to make it better is to own a home in the mountains. Looking to be here? Search the real estate for sale or contact us to let us know how we can help. These mountains are home and if you’re lucky enough to be here, then you’re lucky enough 🙂

The Poltrock Team – REMAX Mountain Properties – Murphy NC – www.MyMurphy.com – Call us Toll Free at 1-866-Murphy-NC or 1-866-687-7496 – Murphy’s #1 Real Estate Team

Tiny House and Tiny Homes in Murphy NC

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FullSizeRenderThis month, Consumer Reports rolled out their March 2016 edition focusing on housing – “Boost Your HOME’S VALUE by 35%” it claims on the cover. This is a great topic we know well! I love Consumer Reports and want to dive into a few things. There are many topics in this edition I’ll likely review over the coming month, and right now, the topic of Tiny Homes is what I want to discuss.

They are trending nationwide and a lot of folks are considering the option of a tiny house for a getaway home or even as a permanent residence. Wikipedia calls a “tiny house” anything less than 1,000 square feet. My college apartment would qualify!  🙂

Locally in Murphy NC, the tiny house movement is not strong. We rarely see them here or people looking to purchase land to put one on. Don’t discount them though! On a recent trip to Murphy from Atlanta, we saw several folks advertising them alongside the road. We even have a vendor locally who can set one on the property for you if you would like to purchase one (email me for details if you want to purchase one and I will get you connected with him).

FullSizeRender 2There’s a really neat blurb in this Consumer Reports, “The Huge Truth about Tiny Homes” that reads:

The tiny-house movement has been enjoying its media “close-up,” even getting an HGTV show, “Tiny House Hunters,” dedicated to those seeking living spaces no bigger than a school bus. But the truth is that newly built single-family houses are still getting bigger. In fact, we hit another record high for overall size in 2014 – reaching a national average of 2,657 square feet. Of the 620,000 newly constructed single-family homes in 2014, only 48,000, or about 8 percent, were smaller than 1,400 square feet. Meanwhile, about 10% were 4,000 square feet or more. “The tiny-house movement is pretty tiny,” says Lawrence Yun, chief economist for the National Association of Realtors, adding that homes smaller than 1,000 square feet made up less than 1% of U.S. sales from 2010-2015. “People might seek smaller units for affordability or environmental benefit, but they quickly realize that, in terms of comfort, it’s not a permanent solution.”

-Consumer Reports

I personally was astonished at the size difference and the national average. It all makes perfect sense, I just never thought of it in such a manner. When you’re looking for your home in Murphy NC, be proud whether you’re looking for a tiny home or if you want a much nicer, larger home. Know we are here for you to find exactly what you’re searching for. Just like the sign you’ll find in many cabins here says, “If you’re lucky enough to be in Murphy, than you’re lucky enough!”

Whether you’re dreaming big or going tiny in Murphy NC, our expert realtors in murphy nc are ready to help you find your perfect place.

John Poltrock – The Poltrock Team – REMAX Mountain Properties – Murphy NC – www.MyMurphy.com – Call us Toll Free at 1-866-Murphy-NC or 1-866-687-7496 – Murphy’s #1 Real Estate Team

Murphy NC Dog Grooming Shops Deliver a Complete Canine Makeover

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Does your golden retriever Dusty have some scraggly-looking leg feathers? Has your little Yorkie Alvin started to resemble a walking mop head? Is your standard poodle Bentley looking like a wild man lately? Sounds like all these guys are overdue for a trip to the groomer. Good thing Murphy, NC has three full-service grooming shops, ready to give your dog a much-deserved beauty treatment. Each operation has its own distinctive vibe.

Let’s begin with Green Paws Grooming in downtown Murphy.

This appointment-only business is located on Hickory Street, just a stone’s throw from Cherokee Cellars Winery. Owner/groomer Helen specializes in small and medium dogs, and works one-on-one with your pooch throughout the process. Using natural products, she gives each canine client an aromatherapeutic massaging bath and a gentle air drying. Each dog’s low-stress grooming experience concludes with a finish clip that makes them look – and feel — their best.

Next, head across town to Lovin Care Pet Grooming. Located at the junction of Pleasant Valley Road and Hill Street, this convenient business is open most weekdays and on Saturdays. The shop’s all-breed-certified groomer also has experience with competition and show grooming. In addition to your dog’s bath and finish clip, his groomer can brush his pearly whites and give him a skin conditioning treatment. Lovin Care also offers a client pick-up and delivery service, along with doggie daycare.

Finally, visit All Creatures Short and Tall, located on U.S. Highway 64 West next to the Waffle King (another well-known Murphy, NC landmark). This appointment-only grooming shop serves clients Monday through Friday, and also opens its doors on the first Saturday of each month. Katherine’s full-service grooming operation focuses on providing exceptional service while keeping each client calm and comfortable.

For example, you might see a happy-looking dog playing with his buddies until it’s his turn on the grooming table of course, roomy kennels are also available for dogs who prefer those accommodations. Finally, ACST helps to connect people and animals via its website and Facebook page, committed to finding loving homes for deserving animals within our community.

While making your dog’s spa appointment, ask if the shop requires proof of current vaccinations, or has other service-related requests. By avoiding surprises, your gorgeous-looking dog will be more likely to come home with a happily wagging tail.

Whether you’re here for the mountain charm or our top-notch dog grooming shops, let our Murphy NC realtors help you feel right at home.

The Poltrock Team – REMAX Mountain Properties – Murphy NC – www.MyMurphy.com – Call us Toll Free at 1-866-Murphy-NC or 1-866-687-7496 – Murphy’s #1 Real Estate Team

A 10 Rating For The Poltrock Team in Murphy, NC

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After 2 failed attempts to sell my property with other Realtors in the Murphy NC area, I decided to try one last time and went with John Poltrock for the third attempt.  Besides selling my property, I found John to give good advice and take care of me. He has a realistic understanding of what is and what is not in relation to the real estate market. He responded to or acknowledged ALL my emails. My overall experience was pleasant to the point of being enjoyable. I must say after having almost given up, I’m glad I found the best in the business.

Looking to sell your home with confidence? Trust The Poltrock Team, the leading murphy nc real estate agents to get it done right.

~Bob Rasche, Saranac, MI

The Poltrock Team – REMAX Mountain Properties – Murphy NC – www.MyMurphy.com– Call us Toll Free at 1-866-Murphy-NC or 1-866-687-7496 – Murphy’s #1 Real Estate Team

 

 

The Poltrock Team Experts In The Real Estate Market

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My husband and I had prior experience working with agent Donna Srabian of The Poltrock Team. This team is caring, hard working, and will help you accomplish your real estate needs. We have experience working with them on both the selling our house we owned in Hayesville NC and buying our new one in Andrews NC.  If you want an agent in real estate that is sincere, honest, friendly and will meet your goals,  you’ll want to give them a call. They are truly experts in the field of real estate in North Carolina.

Whether you’re buying or selling, navigating the real estate market can be overwhelming—but having the right team makes all the difference.

Let us help you make confident moves in the real estate market—get started today with murphy nc real estate.

~Art & Julie Rodriguez, Andrews, NC

The Poltrock Team – REMAX Mountain Properties – Murphy NC – www.MyMurphy.com– Call us Toll Free at 1-866-Murphy-NC or 1-866-687-7496 – Murphy’s #1 Real Estate Team

A Very Good Experience Selling Our Murphy NC Home

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Mark and Connie Sold Their Murphy NC HouseWe would highly recommend The Poltrock Team and John in particular. We found him to be very professional and personable. He has a strong working knowledge of the housing market in Murphy NC and provided us with an in-depth analysis of the real estate market. John was always available to meet with us and kept us informed throughout the sales process.

If you’re looking to sell your Murphy NC home, there’s no better choice than The Poltrock Team.

When it comes to selling or buying a Murphy NC home, no one knows the area better than murphy nc real estate. Let us help you succeed.

Mark & Connie Johnson

Formerly of Murphy NC

The Poltrock Team – REMAX Mountain Properties – Murphy NC – www.MyMurphy.com– Call us Toll Free at 1-866-Murphy-NC or 1-866-687-7496 – Murphy’s #1 Real Estate Team

Our Mountain Region in and Around Murphy NC Overflows With Fantastic Fishing

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Whether you’re a seasoned bass or trout fisherman, or a first-time angler looking for a taste of mountain lakes fishing, you’ll find numerous good fishing holes within an hour’s drive of Murphy, NC. In fact, our mountain region offers eight major lakes, four delayed-harvest trout streams, and countless numbers of rivers and creeks. You could literally fish for weeks in a different place.

To better plan your fishing expedition, decide which species you’ll be stalking. If you’re a confirmed bass fisherman, check out Apalachia, Chatuge, Hiwassee, or Nottely Lakes. Chances are, other nearby lakes and rivers also have their share of bass just waiting to take your bait. While many locations offer banks fishing, some spots also feature public boat ramps so you can better stalk those crafty fish.

If you prefer fly fishing, you’re probably in the best spot on earth for catching trout. Cherokee County boasts several wild trout streams, along with hatchery-supported streams with date-specific releases. For starters, you’ll find wild trout waters in Cherokee, Clay, and Graham counties; along with world-famous Nantahala National Forest game land.

During trout fishing season, lasting from April through February, you’re likely to find anglers’ trucks parked in varied out-of-the-way spots. If you look closely, you’ll see fishermen standing motionless in their waders, trying to coax a wily trout out of its underwater hollow. For these guys (and ladies), catching the fish is satisfying, but the experience itself provides its own rewards.

Now, let’s say you’ve fallen hook-line-and-sinker for a mountain lakes fishing trip, and you can’t wait to get up here. First, book yourself a cozy mountain cabin from the friendly folks at Mountain Country Cabin Rentals. Next, get onto the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission website, and purchase a fishing license. In fact, the Sportsman’s License allows you to fish – and hunt – most game in our region. While you’re browsing the site, take advantage of the NCWRC’s great fishing-related resources.

When you arrive in Murphy, NC, round out your fishing gear at Appalachian Outfitters on Tennessee Street. If you enjoy collecting hand-tied flies, you’ll find a great selection here. Best of all, you can talk with an experienced fishing guide, just brimming with local knowledge about current fishing conditions. Chances are, you can hire him for the day, giving you the inside track on those secret fishing spots. And because we like fishing, too, we might see you out there. And if you love being here like we do, make it home! Whether Murphy NC becomes your primary home or second home, that’s ok! We’d love to have you as neighbors 🙂 Check out all our listings and contact us to let us know what we can do to help you find a home right here in Murphy NC.

The Wildlife of Murphy NC

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When you visit Murphy NC, you may wonder, ‘what kind of wildlife in Murphy will I see?’ It’s a great question, as our area is renowned for its diverse wildlife.

Elk in the Smoky MountainsThe Famous: Famous Wildlife in Murphy: Yes, our elk are renowned. Introduced in 2001, the National Park Service brought 25 elk to their new home in the Great Smoky Mountains. Later in 2002, another 27 were introduced. Today, there are an estimated 150-200 animals that are great to watch – and impressive to say the least. They’re herd animals always on the move and are never more than a short trip away and are commonly just North of Cherokee.

The Common: Our most common large animals you’ll see in your yard if your blessed enough to own a home in Murphy NC are deer and turkey. Many folks feed their deer and turkey in their back yard. Bucks, does, hens, and toms are great to watch and truly give you peace when you watch them.

The Small: We have the usual suspects like squirrel, raccoons, possums (who are made famous at Clay Logan’s Brasstown NC Possum Drop) , chipmunks, ground hog,  and a few others.

Are there bear in Murphy NC?

Yes! There are. I’ve been here for 10 years and only seen two for a very brief moment. Jessica, my wife, is born and raised right here in Murphy and she doesn’t recall even seeing one! The fact is, you have little to concern yourself with. You’ll virtually never see them unless you go looking for them. Black bears are largely shy and do not want to be concerned with people. You’re more likely to see them as cabin decorations than to see them in real life.

What else could I see in Murphy NC? You can even find coyotes, bobcat, fox, swine, ground hog, skunk, and wolf (if you’re lucky! They’re endangered). All these are a rare treat to see.

Think you’ll enjoy the wildlife in Murphy? We do! Murphy, NC offers a unique chance to experience a variety of native animals in their natural habitat. Want to own a home in the mountains of Murphy NC? We can help! Search our listings or contact us and let us know what we can do to help. Feel free to call – we’re here for you.

John Poltrock – Call The Poltrock Team – REMAX of Murphy NC – www.MyMurphy.com–JohnPoltrock@gmail.com – Call us Toll Free at 1-866-Murphy-NC or 1-866-687-7496 – Murphy’s #1 Real Estate Team

No Matter The Distance, Donna Took Time to Show the Homes We Wanted To See in Murphy NC

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Through an Internet search, we found The Poltrock Team, and we decided to work with Donna because of her daily emails on current new listings.  Donna was very professional!  She took the time to show us everything we wanted to see regardless of the travel distance. We found the perfect home to buy in Murphy – thanks Donna!

If you’re looking to buy or sell home let murphy nc real estate guide you every step of the way.

 Steve Muse

Bokeelia, FL

 Call The Poltrock Team – REMAX of Murphy NC – www.MyMurphy.com –JohnPoltrock@gmail.com – Call us Toll Free at 1-866-Murphy-NC or 1-866-687-7496 – Murphy’s #1 Real Estate Team

Murphy NC Antiques and Collectibles Shops Overflow With Vintage Gold

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We’ve all heard that old adage: One man’s trash is another man’s treasure. Well, that’s absolutely true, and Murphy, NC is chock-full of enticing treasures to prove it. In fact, our four downtown Antiques and Collectibles shops have fascinating merchandise dating from our early settlement days – right up to the present. Best of all, all four shops are located right on downtown’s main drag: Peachtree and Tennessee Streets. Hours vary, so check with each shop before making the trip.

Let’s begin with Marketplace Antiques, a highly addictive store on Peachtree Street in the old Stufftiques building, just up from Shoebooties. You’ll find an appealing combination of consignment items and dealer booths, and new merchandise hits the floor daily. In fact, some customers visit several times a week, just so they don’t miss anything. You’ll find vintage and new furniture, old farm implements and tools, antique glassware, home and garden décor, art, and local artisans’ work. You could literally spend hours in this place.

Right next door, the Peachtree Antique Mall is also worth a visit. This well-stocked shop is popular with dealers and consigners, and contains an enticing array of antique and vintage pieces. Along with furniture and décor, you’ll find antique mantels, stoves, and fireplaces – all with great appeal to retro-minded shoppers. If you’re on the lookout for antique silver and crystal – or you’re an avid coin collector – you’ll find plenty to tempt you here. Again, visit often to snag new merchandise first.

After you shop ’til you drop, grab a tasty lunch at Shoebooties or The Daily Grind. Next, hop across Valley River Avenue to Tennessee Street, home of two more tempting antiques and collectibles shops. As you stroll down the left-hand side of the first block, step into Lotsa Memories, an eclectic little store that appeals to lovers of old and new keepsakes. Along with antiques, you’ll find Mennonite-made blankets and handmade quilts from Arkansas. Old musical instruments, fine crystal and collectible glassware, handmade linens, pewter and bronze, and Native American art – it’s all just waiting for you. If you collect cookbooks, you’ll be thrilled at the wide variety of choices from around the world. Best of all, the shop’s proceeds support local charities’ worthwhile work.

Finally, step onto nearby Willow Street, and pay a visit to Jan’s Needful Things, a charming little shop with “Things from Now and Things from Then.” You’ll find antiques mixed with wood puzzle boxes, unusual collectibles, and Murphy, NC souvenirs. If you’re a neon sign fan, get ready for the largest collection in the region. Chances are, you’ll encounter some needful things just looking for a good home – yours.

If you love being surrounded by antiques and collectibles, let murphy nc real estate help you find a home in the heart of it all.

The Poltrock Team – REMAX Mountain Properties – Murphy NC – www.MyMurphy.com – Call us Toll Free at 1-866-Murphy-NC or 1-866-687-7496 – Murphy’s #1 Real Estate Team