Real estate value is about more than square footage, location or the latest kitchen remodel. It’s also about the community surrounding that home. After all, what keeps property values from riding a death-defying rollercoaster? And why do people choose one neighborhood over another when the homes themselves might be remarkably similar?
I believe the answer is quality of life.
Here in our San Bernardino mountain communities, that means two-lane roads, stop signs, breathtaking views and not a big-box store in sight. We aren’t a concrete jungle of traffic snarls and unrelenting noise. We’re small-town America, flavored with mom-and-pop boutiques, local musicians, artists and neighbors who actually know each other.
And here’s our little secret: If we really need a dose of suburbia or city life, it’s roughly 90 minutes away in practically every direction. We’re an island unto ourselves, and that’s part of our charm.
But sometimes we forget what makes this place special.
Every time we head off the mountain for that Target run, dinner or entertainment, we’re spending money and time somewhere that doesn’t directly contribute to our mountain economy. Meanwhile, our local businesses, artists and community organizations are working to preserve the very lifestyle that makes people want to live here.
That’s why I’m asking everyone to put a big red circle around Nov. 14 on their calendars!
The Blue Jay Merchants Association is hosting the Blue Jay Autumn Festival from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., bringing together local talent, businesses and neighbors for a day celebrating everything that makes our mountain community special.
Expect live music and DJs throughout the day, a petting zoo, face painting, crafts, holiday storytimes, aerial performances, food, carnival games, a beer garden and plenty more.
But what really caught my attention? The pumpkin pie competition!
Amateur bakers will compete for the coveted title of Blue Jay Village’s Home Baker of the Year, with local chefs and business owners serving as judges. Think your pumpkin pie deserves bragging rights? Email beverly.eskew@gmail.com for competition rules and submission information.
Now, I’m not suggesting that attending a festival automatically increases your home’s value. There’s no proven formula connecting a pumpkin pie contest to your next appraisal. But I will argue that vibrant communities, thriving local businesses and a strong sense of belonging are exactly the qualities that make a neighborhood desirable.
Would you rather live somewhere rich in culture, connection and character, or somewhere indistinguishable from everywhere else, complete with tumbleweeds rolling down Main Street?
I know my answer.
See you Nov. 14 in the big parking lot across from the County Library in Blue Jay! For festival information, email bjmerchants@gmail.com.
Because a happy community is a prosperous community, and that’s a value worth protecting.
Theresa Grant is a real estate broker and columnist covering Lake Arrowhead, Crestline, Running Springs and the surrounding mountain communities. Reach her at (909) 442-1345, visit www.HomesInLakeArrowhead.com and follow her on social media, @TheresaGrantRealtor. Theresa is a Broker Associate with REAL Broker Technologies. DRE#01202881.
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