A Message from Steve Ebbert

Tenacity

What is going on with our great country? What does our future hold? I don't think anyone knows, and if someone claims to know, his judgment should be immediately questioned.

I believe with all my heart that we are, for the most part, a people of incredible character. When faced with suffering, we become tenacious in our perseverance and always hopeful in a future unseen. American character is revealed in the way in which we treat each other during tough times. You don't have to look far to see hardship and suffering during this difficult economic period, but you also don't have to look far to see people helping each other, and that is where the true American spirit is exposed.

Oswald Chambers wrote in a Christian devotional, "Tenacity is more than endurance, it is endurance combined with the absolute certainty that what we are looking for is going to transpire. Tenacity is more than hanging on, which may be but the weakness of being too afraid to fall off. Tenacity is the supreme effort of a man refusing to believe his hero is going to be conquered."

Our forefathers were heroes who refused to be conquered. Just as the blood of our parents and grandparents flows through our veins, let the character of those who built this great country course through our national disposition. Let us face tomorrow with the same tenacious perseverance as our forebears. Let us hold fast and remain unchanged in our determination to press on despite opposition or discouragement, and show encouragement and generosity to our brothers and sisters who are also struggling with their own hardships.

And pray without ceasing, as our forefathers did in their audacity! Psalm 46:10: "Be still, and know that I am God." Oswald also wrote: "One of the greatest strains in life is the strain of waiting for God." Pray, pray, pray!

Peace be with you,

Steve Ebbert

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Corporate News

SLE Joins AgSouth Farm Credit In St. Simons Island

The Southern Land Exchange team took an early trip to the beach! On February 11 and 12, we joined AgSouth Farm Credit for its annual meeting on St. Simons Island. SLE hosted a cocktail hour on Wednesday night to thank AgSouth for its relationship with us. We caught up with familiar faces and made many newfound friends.

On Thursday morning, an economist spoke about the state of the economy and the implications for the real estate business. Our visit to St. Simons Island strengthened our bond with the premiere lender for land, farms, and recreational properties, and strengthens our commitment to giving our clients all the tools they need to finance their recreational land purchases.

AgSouth Farm Credit, and the other companies that make up the Farm Credit network, are a huge asset to the associates of SLE and Cabela's Trophy Properties. When we refer our clients to the folks at Farm Credit, we're referring them to a knowledgeable lender who can offer them the best loan possible.

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Southern Land Exchange Adds Associates In Tennessee And West Georgia

Southern Land Exchange (SLE) is proud to announce the addition of two new associates to its team of recreational property brokers.

Meredith Liemohn is a licensed owner and broker of Smoky Mountain Recreation Properties in Maryville, Tennessee. She has more than twenty-four years of experience selling property in the prime recreational region of East Tennessee.

Meredith's many years of experience have helped earn her both Certified Residential Specialist and Graduate Realtors Institute designations. She is a past president of the Blount County Association of Realtors, and was selected as the 1999 Blount County Realtor of the Year. She has also given more than twenty-four years of service to the Blount County United Way and Chamber of Commerce. She has served as Director of Real Estate and Insurance on the Chamber Board of Directors, and as vice-chair of the Community/Economic Development Council.

SLE has also added Kenneth Koon as an associate broker. Licensed since 1986, Kenneth grew up in the real estate business and brokered his own company for fourteen years before joining Southern Land Exchange. He founded the National Buyer's Advisory Board in 1992, an organization that trains both agents and the public in real estate related subjects. He is frequently called on by local boards of realtors to teach ethics courses mandated by the National Association of Realtors.

Kenneth works with buyers and sellers in the rural land markets of west central Georgia from Atlanta to Columbus. In his free time he enjoys hunting quail and shooting skeet, as well as fishing and boating on Lake Wedowee with his wife and four sons.

Adding Meredith and Kenneth will allows SLE to expand its reach and maintain its status as the southeast's premier recreational property brokerage.

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SLE Attends Global Brokers Conference

Tom Little, Steve Ebbert and Stuart McLean went to Denver in December to meet with other top land brokers from around the globe. Cabela's Trophy Properties (CTP) participants from Texas, Colorado, Oregon, and the U.S. Virgin Islands were also in attendance. Gregg Severinson, Director of CTP and Jeff Phelps, a real estate consulting specialist, unveiled plans for the new CTP website, which came online earlier this year. CTP's new website will enhance its already unmatched ability to market our clients' property around the world to qualified and interested buyers.

The participants also traded marketing ideas and discussed strategies for success in today's challenging economy. Of course, they also managed to squeeze in a duck hunt with Robb Nelson of Hayden Outdoors. It's great to be part of such a diverse team of recreational land experts. Our next CTP conference will be in Breckenridge, Colorado in June. Just in time to get out of the summer heat.

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Trends In Land Management

Landscaping Can Lure Wildlife To Your Backyard

By Mark Bailey

Everyone enjoys watching wildlife. In fact, wildlife watching is one of the fastest growing outdoor activities in America. Having wildlife near our homes makes it possible to view many species from a window, so even the elderly and physically disabled can benefit. Interacting with and providing for native animals and plants seems to bring us a pleasure unlike any other experience.

Habitat is the combination of food, water, shelter, and space arranged to meet the needs of wildlife. Given the urban sprawl that is occurring today, natural wildlife habitats increasingly are being altered or destroyed. Although many native wildlife species have declined, some adaptable species have actually benefited from habitat modifications in developed areas. And the good news is that many others can thrive near our homes with a little help from us.

No matter the size of your yard, you can landscape it to attract birds, butterflies, beneficial insects, and other small animals. Trees, shrubs, and other plants provide shelter and food for wildlife. You can even help determine which wildlife species will be attracted to your back yard based on the specific plants you use for food and cover. Nesting boxes, feeders, and watering sites can be added to improve the habitat.

Developing A Plan

Odds are, you already have some wildlife in your yard, but by making just a few changes, you can greatly enhance the habitat. Diversity in the landscape is essential for a diversity of wildlife. Some plants provide food but very little cover; others provide cover but little food. Productive and attractive wildlife habitat near people's homes is usually the result of careful planning and proper management. When considering your property, think not only of its two-dimensional area but of its vertical dimension as well, from the soil to the treetops.

This vertical area is composed of several zones. The tallest tree branches form the canopy, while smaller trees, shrubs and vines provide the under story vegetation. The groundcover layer has herbaceous plants, mushrooms, and lichens, while the leaf litter and soil support a variety of organisms. Different wildlife species live in each of these zones, so, even on a small piece of land, you can provide many habitats.

Trees and shrubs are the backbone of landscaping design. In addition to providing shelter, many tree and shrub species are sources of food for wildlife. Probably the best thing you can do to enhance wildlife habitat is to plant nursery-grown native trees and shrubs that once grew naturally in your area. (Never dig native plants from the wild). While exotic ornamental shrubs frequently used for landscaping will provide some benefit, most do not yield adequate food for native wildlife and therefore are not recommended.

In addition to the wildlife benefits native plants provide, they are adapted to your local climate, soil, and water conditions. Once established, they are virtually maintenance-free. Selection of the proper plant material can meet both your aesthetic needs and the food and shelter needs of wildlife. Remember that the habitat you create is going to be your habitat, too!

Backyard Habitat Plan

After these steps have been completed, to implement a backyard habitat plan, you must first identify all existing trees and shrubs on your property and evaluate them according to three criteria:

1. The condition/location of plants.
2. The degree of shade provided by the trees and shrubs.
3. The value as a food source to wildlife.

Next, make a sketch of your yard, showing all trees, shrubs, buildings, utilities, and pathways. Don't rule out the option of removing some plants, particularly those exotic species that may be of little wildlife value. Once you know which plants you want to keep, star for plants that will work well with these species. On your sketch, denote the open areas that receive sunshine and the areas that are shaded most of the day. In addition, indicate low, wet areas and those that are usually dry. Make several copies of your sketch, and try drawing different layouts with plants indifferent areas. Add native trees, shrubs, wildflowers, and groundcover plants to your plan.

Unless you have a small yard, don't feel that you must implement your entire plan all at once. Your money and/or time may be limited, so do what you can, and consider it a work in progress.

Plant a variety of trees first. Evergreen species, for instance, provide year-round cover and shelter, while fruit and nut-bearing plants are important food sources. When choosing and placing trees, always consider the eventual size of the tree. Deciduous trees are a good choice for the south side of a house because they provide summer shade but will not completely block winter sun. Select plants that flower and bear fruit at different times of the year. Some shrubs that produce berries can provide food throughout the year. Trees with nuts and fruit can also provide seasonal foods.

Beneath the existing or recently planted trees, fill in with smaller shade-tolerant understory trees and shrubs. These will enhance the vertical structure that is characteristic of natural landscapes. Dogwood, redbud, and many other midstory trees are colorful in the spring when they flower, and they provide berries or seed for fall and winter forage.

Wildflowers add color to the yard and can be added at any stage to attract birds and butterflies. If you have space, consider converting a sunny part of your lot into a meadow for wildflowers and native grasses.

Meadows are mowed only once every year or two. A native wildflower garden can be fun to maintain and, at the same time, can provide important wildlife habitat.

Remember: Most wildlife species are not particularly attracted to well-manicured lawns. Animals are more likely to come out into the open for viewing when the boundary of the yard is designed and maintained as a retreat for them. Try to avoid straight lines and perfect symmetry.

Select at least one location for a permanent water source. Whether a birdbath or an excavated pond, the presence of water will be a magnet to wildlife. A backyard pond does not have to be large to be productive, and if you don't stock fish, you really don't need to worry about filtration. You can buy plastic pond liners at larger home supply stores.

Editor's Note: The second part of this series will provide specific information on creating backyard wildlife habitat for birds, butterflies, reptiles and amphibians.

Mark A. Bailey is a consulting biologist for Conservation Services Southeast; mbailey@ConservationSoutheast.com exploring options.

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Trends in Land Sales

2008 Market Summary

By Jesse Johnson

In an effort to determine the overall health of the recreational land market, I analyzed a number of 50+ acre land sales during 2008 in the following counties: Elbert, Greene, Hancock, Jasper, Jones, Madison, Oglethorpe, Putnam, Taliaferro, Washington and Wilkes (Map). I then compared the number of 2008 sales to the number of sales that occurred in 2006 and 2007.

In 2008 there were 196 sales in the 11 county region, which represents a 52% drop from 2007 and a 60% drop from 2006 (chart 1). All 11 counties experienced a drop in the number of sales from 2007. Five of the counties had over 20 transactions: Elbert, Hancock, Oglethorpe, Washington and Wilkes. Elbert and Hancock counties tied at 28 sales for the county with the most sales during 2008.

As expected the sale of 50-100 acre tracts lead with the most number of transactions, due to the fact that smaller tracts are more affordable (chart 2). Also, more sales occurred during the 1st and 2nd quarters than the second half of the year (chart 3).

The Bottom Line

At Southern Land Exchange, we believe that we are in a period of market correction. During the last few years (2003 to 2007) we experience a booming land market. The expanding economy produced a substantial increase in the demand for recreational land. As people's business and other real estate investments were creating huge amounts of wealth, many individual were purchasing tracts for personal use or investment. However, as we all know, the times have changed. Individuals are holding tight to their savings and businesses are doing all they can to stay afloat; therefore the demand for recreational tracts has decreased.

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Trends in Real Estate Investment

Purchasing Land Through a Self-Directed IRA

Investing in land using a self-directed IRA is an effective way to leverage your assets.

What is a self-directed IRA? A Self-directed IRA is a retirement account that is controlled by the owner, and allows investment in nontraditional vehicles.

While you must do due diligence when looking for land for sale, and have a high risk tolerances (as the investment is not liquid as stocks), a self-directed IRA is a great outlet to diversity your portfolio.

How a self-directed IRA works:

1. Open and Fund IRA
   1. Contribute to the account
   2. Rollover funds from another IRA or 401(k)
2. Locate Property and Choose How You Want To Own the Property
   1. Purchase it 100%
   2. Buy a percentage of it
   3. Buy it with debt financing
3. IRA custodian processes investment and remits funds to seller
4. Property is owned by the IRA

The following restrictions apply:

1. All property expenses must be paid from your IRA.
2. All income from your investment must be deposited into your IRA.
3. Property must remain in your IRA until distribution at retirement.
4. You cannot manage the property, but hire a third party to collect fees and maintain or improve the property.
5. You cannot live on the property.

It is a common misconception among Americans that the only investments allowed in a retirement fund are stocks, CDs, and mutual funds, but that is not accurate. With a self-directed IRA, you can make more diversified investments in real estate, LLCs, private stock, and partnerships and joint ventures, secured and unsecured notes, and more.

Bank rate advises, if you're going it alone, in addition to a custodian, you should also have a financial planner that will help you set your retirement goals, a real estate broker to find appropriate properties, an attorney to draw up leases, purchase contracts, etc., an accountant to review the numbers, and a title company.

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Upcoming Events

Turkey Season

March 21 - May 15, 2009 statewide

Season Limit:

3 Gobblers.

9th Annual Wildlife Trends Field Day

April 23, 2009

This event is perfect for land owners and wildlife enthusiasts. demonstrations include quail management techniques, feral hog trapping, pond management, dove field preparation, and deer food plot construction. Lunch will be served. This event is free for Wildlife Trends Journal subscribers and just $25 for spouses and guests.

Where:

Harris County, Georgia just outside Columbus. For reservations and directions, go to www.wildlifetrends.com or contact them at 800-441-6826 or email info@wildlifetrends.com.

SLE Annual Spring BBQ

April 24, 2009

Friends of Southern Land Exchange are invited to attend the annual Spring BBQ at the field on the corners of Cliff Dawson, Daniels Bridge, and Hog Mountain Roads in Watkinsville. We will be serving Tom Little's famous barbeque from 11:30 to 1:30. Please come join us for a great time and great food. Bring your friends and family!

Sparrow's Nest Banquet

May 1, 2009

Sparrow's Nest is a non-profit, Christ-centered ministry that seeks to change and improve the lives of others. Please come, share a meal, and listed to an inspiring speaker at their annual banquet.

Where:

Tuckston United Methodist Church.

Time:

6:00 p.m. For more information contact us here at Southern Land Exchange (706-549-5050).

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