Your First Choice in Hide-A-Way Hills Real Estate

noreply@blogger.com (Belinda Augustus) — Sat, 13 Jul 2013 11:56:00 +0000

LOCAL REALTOR® ACHIEVES NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS® GREEN DESIGNATION

noreply@blogger.com (Belinda Augustus) — Sat, 13 Jul 2013 11:52:00 +0000

Hide-A-Way Hills, Ohio – Belinda Augustus with Gorsuch Realty has been awarded the National Association of REALTORS^®’ [NAR’s] Green Designation, the only green real estate professional designation recognized by NAR.

Augustus achieved this prestigious designation after completing 18 hours of course work designed specifically for REALTORS^®. The courses were created in collaboration with a multidisciplinary team of industry experts from across the country; ensuring designees gain comprehensive knowledge of green homes and buildings and issues of sustainability in relation to real estate.

More specifically, Augustus was trained in understanding what makes a property green, helping clients evaluate the cost/benefits of green building features and practices, distinguishing between industry rating and classification systems, listing and marketing green homes and buildings, discussing the financial grants and incentives available to homeowners, and helping consumers see a property’s green potential.

“Living green is about making healthy choices that are also easy on your wallet. NAR Green Designees have the necessary resources & relationships to effectively work with you on your next green project.” said Kristen Short, Executive Director of NAR’s Green Designation. NAR’s Green Designation was developed in response to growing consumer awareness of the benefits of resource-efficient homes and buildings. The designation helps consumers who care about energy efficiency and sustainable building practices identify REALTORS^® who can help them realize their green real estate and lifestyle goals.

As an NAR Green Designee, Belinda has gained the knowledge and the tools necessary to become a trusted green resource for Fairfield and Hocking County For more information about Belinda Augustus, please visit http://Hide-A-WayHillsRealEstate.com or e-mail belinda@hide-a-wayhillsrealestate.com.

For more information about NAR’s Green Designation, visit www.greenresourcecouncil.org

How Large are Hide-A-Way Hills Lakes

noreply@blogger.com (Belinda Augustus) — Wed, 26 Jun 2013 16:13:00 +0000

Hide-A-Way Hills Members have access to 5 different lakes ranging in various sizes and depths.

Lake of the Four Seasons - 100 Acres - Depth 42'
Lake Deerfoot - 2 Acres - Depth 17'
Lake Arrowhead - 2.3 Acres - Depth 23'
Lake Tomahawk - 2.6 Acres - Depth 42'
Lake Eagle Claw - 11.8 Acres - Depth 47'
Lake Ski - .75 Acre

Hide-A-Way Hills New Member Fee? What's that all about?

noreply@blogger.com (Belinda Augustus) — Tue, 26 Mar 2013 14:44:00 +0000

What is a New Member?
Seems pretty obvious, but a New Member is anybody who is closing on a property that is not a current Member, nor has been a Member within the last 24 months. If a client has been a Member in the past two years, but is not a current Member, they would still not be assessed a New Member Fee at closing. To qualify as a current Member, the names held in title of the property being purchased MUST be the same as the property currently owned. An example would be if two Members decided to form an L.L.C. and purchase another property. While both officers of the L.L.C. may be current Members, the L.L.C. is not, and would be assessed a New Member Fee per the Hide-A-Way Hills Code of Regulations.

How much is the New Member Fee?
The New Member Fee is equal to 24 months of monthly assessments, road fees, plus whatever current special assessments might be in place. The current Hide-A-Way Hills New Member Fee currently through 12-31-2013 is equal to $4,119.04.

Is there a way to get a waiver for the fee?
The short answer is no. The fee must be paid to Hide-A-Way Hills at closing. However, like with closing costs, cosmetic allowances, or lender points, the fee could be negotiated with a Seller. Let's be realistic here though, a Seller is often only interested in their bottom line. In other words, what does their check look like at the end of day when walking away from the closing table? If a Buyer was to request a Seller to pay the New Member Fee, that Buyer would pay more for the home than if they did not request the fee to paid by the Seller
.
Where does that New Member Fee go, and why do they have one?
Talking realistically, it's a revenue generator for Hide-A-Way Hills. New Member Fees are placed in the Club's Amenities Improvement Fund (50%), Road Fund (10%), and General Fund (40%). New Members are helping to provide for the future improvements of Hide-A-Way Hills Club's current amenities.

Printable Hide-A-Way Hills Assessments Rates and Fees

Interested in receiving a tour of Hide-A-Way Hills, feel free to give me call. While much information is provided online, there is nothing like seeing the community for yourself with a current full time Member of more than 13 years.

Driving Map of Hide-A-Way Hills, Ohio

noreply@blogger.com (Belinda Augustus) — Fri, 22 Mar 2013 15:20:00 +0000

Below is a driving map of Hide-A-Way Hills. Click on the map to enlarge. This map is a copy of the maps that are given to guests by Security when entering Hide-A-Way Hills, Ohio

Remember, Hide-A-Way Hills is a gated community and will require an appointment with a Member or licensed Real Estate agent.

Schedule ahead and don't get turned away at the gates.

My Top 10 Favorite Things about Hide-A-Way Hills, Ohio in the Fall

noreply@blogger.com (Belinda Augustus) — Sat, 22 Oct 2011 12:00:00 +0000

10 Probably the most obvious, but the dynamic orange, red, and yellow colors exhibited in the trees can not go without mention. Hide-A-Way Hills actually glows with such colors in the Fall.

9 The Annual Hills Cup A new tradition but a favorite just the same. The Cup is decided by a match play tournament between Windy Hills Golf Course and Hide-A-Way Hills Golf Club.

8 New visitors to my bird feeders. I typically only set out bird seed during the colder months. October starts my winter tradition.

7 Picking up gallons of Apple Cider at the Laureville Fruit Company If you are a cider fan, Laurelville is definitely the place to go. While many ciders take on a cloudy appearance, Laurelville Fruit Company's cider is as clear as apple juice. Once you drink Lauerville's cider, you'll wonder what exactly it is they are selling at the grocery.

6 The Annual Boo at the Barn for families - This year's Boo is being held on October 29 @ 5:00. Includes Haunted Barn, and Candy.

5 The Annual Hide-A-Way Hills Adult Halloween Party at the Lodge Need I say more. Members come in costume and dance the night away with a guest DJ.

4 Bonfires with friends. Fall is the time for Hide-A-Way Hills residents to gather for various occasions around a bonfire. HAH rules require a fire permit.

3 The reflections of the golden trees along Lake Arrowhead. While driving by Lake Arrowhead daily, it's always such a site to view the trees reflecting on the calm water. By far, one of my favs.

2 The sweet smell of the forest with the leaves scattered all over the forest floor. It's a different smell that only can be attributed to the forest in the Fall. I assume it's the decay process. Although rotting leaves sounds nasty, the sweet smell of the forest is unforgettable.

1 OSU Football games at the Golf Course Clubhouse and Pavilion. While Hide-A-Way Hills is an hour south of Columbus, HAH can be considered to be Buckeye territory. Games are shown both in the Clubhouse and outside at the Clubhouse Pavilion. If you wish to bring your own drinks and food, the Pavilion is a great spot to watch the game. Alcohol can be purchased for dine-in only inside the Clubhouse. Food is also available for both dine-in or carry out. It's always nice to gather with friends and neighbors to root on the team to victory, or in the least, have friends with which to commiserate should the rare defeat occur.

Quick Fall Tips to Help Prepare your Home for Winter

noreply@blogger.com (Belinda Augustus) — Thu, 20 Oct 2011 11:28:00 +0000

Check the gutters and downspouts: Are they unclogged and free of litter? Are the joints tight? Are extenders and splash blocks under the downspouts? Any leaves in the roof valleys?

Check for tree branches overhanging roofs.

See if the septic tank needs pumping out.

Assess your back yard for winter: Is the BBQ put away and covered? Are lawn and garden tools stored in the shed or garage? Has the lawn furniture been winterized? Make sure there's room in the garage for your car(s). Have hose bib covers handy for a freeze. Check the nooks and crannies for snakes, and spiders that will be looking for winter warmth.

Check windows: Are they tightly caulked? Have window screens been removed and cleaned? Is your weather stripping tight?

Have something handy to de-ice walkways and steps.

Sign up for Be Sure Home Inspections monthly Newsletter for more monthly tips.

FREE Book Swap for Hide-A-Way Hills Members

noreply@blogger.com (Belinda Augustus) — Mon, 17 Oct 2011 13:17:00 +0000

The bookshelves are up in the post office at the front gate and they are loaded with books for people to use. Members are welcome to take books and leave others, but please do not leave books if there is not room on the shelves for them.

Childrens' books are welcomed!! Children must be supervised by a parent when they are looking for a book.

Also, if a book is found on the floor PLEASE put it back on the shelves. Members should report any vandalism to Security immediately.

Hide-A-Way Hills Lodge Manager Sauces it Up! - Zapico Food

noreply@blogger.com (Belinda Augustus) — Sun, 02 Oct 2011 11:00:00 +0000

While working to serve the Members of the Hide-A-Way Hills Community, Lodge Manager, Michael Hermick, stocks his homemade sauces on area grocer's shelves allowing his fans to cook up some of his menu at home. One of those sauces is a marinara made from a 100-year-old recipe Hermick’s great-grandmother brought over from Italy. Good Stuff!

Read more:

Local Foods: Zapico Foods

The Lodge at Hide-A-Way Hills

Quick Pic - Photo 2 from a Trail Camera ( Cougar or a Bobcat?)

noreply@blogger.com (Belinda Augustus) — Wed, 28 Sep 2011 09:47:00 +0000

Here's a second photo from the trail camera I mentioned in yesterday's blog post. There is some discussion about what we call this beautiful creature, cougar or a bobcat? Care to chime in?

Quick Pic - Coyote

noreply@blogger.com (Belinda Augustus) — Tue, 27 Sep 2011 20:36:00 +0000

A couple of years ago, I was able to help a client purchase a previous Sunday Creek Coal Company tract near Wayne National Forest. Making the most of the property, they have trail cameras set up around the parcel. Here's just one of their recent visitors.

Camo-Toads?

noreply@blogger.com (Belinda Augustus) — Sun, 25 Sep 2011 12:51:00 +0000

This little guy was found when lifting a hot tub lid. We placed him on the ground where he chose to hop on over to a concrete stepping stone, and change colors before our eyes. He's attempt to hide, would be successful had we not seen his transformation first hand.

Old Man's Cave Visitor Area set for $6.6 Million in Improvements

noreply@blogger.com (Belinda Augustus) — Thu, 22 Sep 2011 14:50:00 +0000

$6.6 million in improvements slated to begin in Oct and scheduled to be completed by October 2012. Improvements will re-route the front entrance road around the parking lots so that visitors do not have to cross State Route 664. The project also includes the addition of Bus Lanes, and deals with environmental issues being caused by the run-off of the current parking lots. Improvements are sure to create and improve the continual interest in the park and the Hocking Hills area.

What's Everybody Looking At? Summary of the Top Viewed Listings this Week @ Hide-A-WayHillsRealEstate.com

noreply@blogger.com (Belinda Augustus) — Thu, 22 Sep 2011 14:21:00 +0000

Top 5 Viewed Listings at Hide-A-WayHillsRealEstate.Com
September 15, 2011 - September 21, 2011

21 Anoka Ln MLS# 211022956 4 BR/2BA - 2,465 SF, $84,000
93 Aztec Ln MLS# 210044761 4 BR/2BA - 1,728 SF, $84,900
1054 Taos Lane MLS# 211029276 - 3BR/2BA - 1,616 SF, $149,900
1751 Mohican MLS# 210041563 2BR/1BA - 816 SF, $79,900
620 Natchez MLS# 211023123 4BR/2BA - 1,536 SF $134,900

What my clients have to say...

noreply@blogger.com (Belinda Augustus) — Sat, 17 Sep 2011 13:56:00 +0000

"Belinda was a great guide for us during the selling of our home in HAH....we took several years to get it in "mint" condition and she saw this right away since she was the realtor we used when we bought the "fixer-upper". She truly appreciated the work we did on the cabin, and helped us get the "right" buyer for our lovely little cabin in the woods. She knows the area and can help a new or former client get the best price for their property. Thanks again Belinda..and best of luck on future sales in HAH."

Thanks again...hope to work with you again some day.

Susan and Don Douglas

Hide-A-Way Hills Golf Course Makes Improvements

noreply@blogger.com (Belinda Augustus) — Wed, 14 Sep 2011 14:30:00 +0000

THE COURSE WILL BE CLOSED UNTIL SEPTEMBER 23TH (Cart Path Only)

DURING THE CLOSURE A GREAT DEAL OF THE PREPARATION THAT IS REQUIRED TO DEVELOP BETTER COURSE CONDITIONS NEXT SPRING WILL BE PERFORMED.

GREENS WILL BE PLUGGED AND SANDED. TEES WILL BE PLUGGED AND TOP DRESSED WITH SAND, PEAT AND TOPSOIL THEN OVER SEEDED. IN ADDITION THE PLUGS FROM THE GREENS WILL BE PUT ON SOME TEES TO PROMOTE GROWTH.

WINTER TEES WILL BE USED UNTIL SPRING EXCEPT FOR THE HILLS CUP

FAIRWAYS WILL BE PLUGGED AND DRAGGED TO BREAK UP THE PLUGS AND OVER SEEDED. SOME FAIRWAYS WILL BE TOP DRESSED.

KEEPING CARTS ON THE CART PATHS WILL ALLOW THE GRASS SEED TO TAKE ROOT AND THE REPAIR OF DAMAGE CAUSED BY GOLF CARTS TO FIRM UP.

Mail and Package Delivery in Hide-A-Way Hills

noreply@blogger.com (Belinda Augustus) — Mon, 12 Sep 2011 16:37:00 +0000

US MAIL SERVICE, UPS, FED-EX nor any other delivery services make deliveries to individual homes in the Hills. Not to worry. . .

UPS, FED-EX nor any other delivery services including florist make deliveries into the Hills other than appliances, furniture, building supplies and such. Security will log all packages and sign with the carrier. Security will store the items under shelter for 72 hours after phone calls are made to inform the Member of any package arrival. Packages should be picked up or contact made with Security within 72 hours of notification.

To assure proper delivery, packages should be addressed as:

Your Name
Your Lot Number
29042 Hide-A-Way Hills Road
Sugar Grove, OH 43155

US Mail Service also does not deliver mail to individual homes, but rather to 3 postal areas located through out the community.

To receive mail at Hide-A-Way Hills you will need to register with the Sugar Grove or Bremen Post Office. This choice is purely an individual's and is not assigned based on addresses. The choice is typically based on the location which you wish to receive your mail. All mail is assigned rural route boxes, not to be confused with PO Boxes, for delivery. Packages are able to be secured out of the weather and in on-site lockers until you are able to pick them up.

De-Cluttering Advice

noreply@blogger.com (Belinda Augustus) — Wed, 07 Sep 2011 09:43:00 +0000

Those who know me intimately are aware that I am constantly struggling with organizational skills and clutter control. I tend to believe that less is more such as less junk is more space. But HOW does one keep the junk under control?

Over the years, I have tried numerous organizational systems only to fall behind after just a few months. I thought I'd share a few of my favorite resources that I often rely upon to get my home, files, and life somewhat organized.

I hope you enjoy!

Clutter Control Freak Blog
While this Blog is sponsored by Stacks and Stacks and promotes the sale of organizational items, I find the personal stories, tips, advice, and ideas helpful when talking about the task of clutter control.

Fly Lady
I first ran across the Fly Lady many years ago when Home Educating my children. Fly Lady followers can register to receive free daily FlyLady email reminders to help develop routines and habits that will help get housework and clutter under control. While first developed for stay at home mothers, Fly Lady has evolved to develop entire areas dedicated to the Working Woman, Body Clutter, Holiday Stress Free Zones, Teacher Tips, and even has tips to help you methodically prepare your home for sale. Housework done incorrectly still blesses my family, I can do ANYTHING for 15 minutes, Baby Steps, Shiny Sinks, and the 27 Fling Room Boogie, are just a few of my favorites teachings espoused by the FlyLady.

Clutter's Last Stand - Don Aslett
While there are infinite numbers of books written on the topic of de-cluttering your home, Don's book takes a different route by instructing readers on how to de-clutter the behaviors that lead to the clutter. Tough medicine for many since Mr. Aslett details those behaviours that are self defeating in the battle against clutter including the advice of de-cluttering people from our lives who tend to suck the energy right out of us.

Quick Pics - Wildlife - Teeny Tiny Turtle - Hide-A-Way Hills, Ohio

noreply@blogger.com (Carrie Augustus - Virtual Assistant) — Mon, 29 Aug 2011 23:15:00 +0000

Re-posted from July 2008

This little guy was found by the parking lot for the Lake of Four Seasons and submitted to us for posting thanks to an avid HAHBlog reader.

At first this little creature was actually mistaken for "goose poop", but quickly identified as a Teeny Tiny Turtle.

Personally, we've found an abnormally high amount of reptiles in and around the Lake of Four Seasons so keep an eye out and let us know what you see!

What my clients have to say...

noreply@blogger.com (Belinda Augustus) — Sat, 27 Aug 2011 10:33:00 +0000

"Thank you Belinda for promptly answering our emails and questions regardless of the time. Your vast knowledge of HAH properties and the wonderful community is amazing. We have bought and sold approximately 10 different properties in OH, WI, and FL in the last 10 years. In addition, we have worked with many different realtors and you are definitely a "top notch" professional. Again, we greatly appreciate your diligence in locating the perfect place for us in the Hills and the ease in which the business transactions were executed. Best regards-Phil and Jody Hostetler"

NAR introduces House Logic- A Homeowner's Resource - For those wishing to improve and maintain their current home.

noreply@blogger.com (Belinda Augustus) — Thu, 25 Aug 2011 14:21:00 +0000

Hundreds of articles on homeownership,

homebuying, and selling to help you both

before and after a sale.

What my Clients Have to Say:

noreply@blogger.com (Belinda Augustus) — Mon, 22 Aug 2011 17:06:00 +0000

We learned of Hide-A-Way Hills when friends purchased a vacation getaway. When we decided to begin a search for a cabin in the woods, they suggested we call Belinda. We are so pleased we did. From the first phone conversation and meeting, we felt very comfortable with her. Belinda was always responsive to phone calls, e-mails, and text messages. She is a full-time resident of the community, which we felt was an added bonus to us; she could answer all questions we had.

Throughout the entire process of searching for a cabin, making an offer and counter-offers, the inspections, and finally the closing, we never doubted that Belinda was working for and fully representing us, the buyers. She calmly led us through a few days of drama, when some unexpected issues were revealed at the inspection.

If you are considering Hide-A-Way Hills for your permanent residence, or a weekend retreat, please consider asking Belinda to represent you. You will not be disappointed!

Tim and Diane Motter
Lima, OH

Hide-A-Way Hills Basic Golf Course Info/Score Card

noreply@blogger.com (Belinda Augustus) — Sun, 21 Aug 2011 18:09:00 +0000

Hide-A-Way Hills Golf Course is one of our most popular amenities. If only looking at the score card one would think that it would be a very easy course on which to play. After all , it's only 2,344 yards long which is about 550 yards shorter than the average course. The longest par 4 is only 340 yards. 340 would more than likely be the shortest at various other courses.

However, once you tee it up, you'll find you're on one of the most challenging "short courses" in Central Ohio. A player will experience sloped fairways where a ball is often either drastically above or below your feet, while the crowned greens allow players very few straight putts. Because of these challenges, many say you can play day after day never having to hit the same shot twice.

Members of Hide-A-Way Hills do not pay any greens fees to golf and tee times are not necessary.

Ready to start your Hide-A-Way Golf Challenge? Let's Start with a Free Tour!

My thoughts and ideas are but one view of my personal experience with Hide-A-Way Hills. Do you have a question, comment or wish to share a story about your Golf Course experience? Please, feel free to submit your comments below any of my articles or Send Me A General Comment.

© 2007 All Rights Reserved

What my clients have to say...

noreply@blogger.com (Belinda Augustus) — Sat, 20 Aug 2011 12:16:00 +0000

Belinda, Thanks for being so on the ball and keeping things rolling right along. I've noticed the times of your Emails and it seems as though you work nonstop around the clock. It's A big relief having you in our corner !! Dan

How NOT to Set A Listing Price - Hide-A-Way Hills, Ohio

noreply@blogger.com (Belinda Augustus) — Fri, 19 Aug 2011 10:30:00 +0000

The following should NOT be criteria when setting the price of your home:

*What you Paid for the Home

*Amount owed on the house

*Money needed to buy the next home

*Neighbor's estimate of house value

*Money invested in improvements

*Appraisal for last refinancing

*Price a neighbor's home sold for last year

*Suggestions from Internet sites, such as Zillow.com