Author: Stacy Carlson

September 2019 Real Estate Rundown By Jay Ferguson

“There are three kinds of lies: lies, damned lies, and statistics.” – Mark Twain

My name is Jay Ferguson and I am one of the owners of the real estate division of Taylor Made Deep Creek Vacations & Sales. I am entering my 19th year in the real estate business here in Garrett County and at Deep Creek Lake.If you are interested, you can click here find out more about me personally and my background.

I will be writing a monthly blog post about our local real estate market, sharing & interpreting statistics and offering some insights into the market as a whole…as I see it. These are my personal thoughts and musings about the market in general and are not intended as anything more specific. And, to be clear, I am an optimistic, glass half-full kind of guy.

Lastly, every stat I reference is based on the official stats published by Bright MLS on or around the 15th of each month. My plan is to give you straightforward stats coupled with my analysis from the front lines and let you interpret what you read in your own way.

August 2019  – We finished the month with 69 new listings, down from 71 new listings in July. The biggest news I report on below is the massive jump in median sales price. It rose 59.2% to $306,500! I think more lakefront sales (higher overall sales price) play the biggest part here in determining this stat. More positive news –  interest rates dropped again this week and that should pave the way for more buyers who just cannot pass up the opportunity to purchase a primary home or even a weekend getaway and pay historically low interest rates. The leaves are starting to change and showing signs of fall, but the stats below show that the summer of 2019 at DCL is still going strong! Continue reading September 2019 Real Estate Rundown By Jay Ferguson

Favorite Deep Creek Fall Events

Deep Creek fall events

Favorite Deep Creek Fall events happen during this quieter time of year when leaf-peepers flock to the area to enjoy the beauty of autumn. I put together a list of the upcoming festivities. If you are interested in buying or selling real estate in the area, you can contact me, Betsy Spiker Holcomb, at betsy@deepcreekvacations.com or 301-616-5022.

Deep Creek Lake Lion’s Bark in the Park 5K
September 28, 8AM-10AM
In its fifth year, the “Bark in the Park” 5k race supports the off-leash dog park at the Deep Creek Lake Lion’s Club park on Bumble Bee Rd. The race is off-road and pet friendly. It starts and ends from the park.

Fall Festival at Friend’s Store
September 28, 10AM-3PM
Head to 3735 Sang Run Road to the historic Friend’s Store for classic fall fun for all ages. Pumpkin carving, cider pressing, monarch tagging and sack races are just a few of the highlights. Continue reading Favorite Deep Creek Fall Events

10 Fun Facts About Deep Creek Lake

Lots of people are curious about Deep Creek Lake. As a lifelong resident and experienced sales agent, I put together some popular questions along with the answers. If you are interested in buying or selling real estate in the area, you can contact me, Betsy Spiker Holcomb, at betsy@deepcreekvacations.com or 301-616-5022.

How big is Deep Creek Lake?

The lake has 65 miles of shoreline and covers 3,900 acres. That makes it Maryland’s largest freshwater lake. The average depth is about 26 feet. The deepest point is 72 feet.

about deep creek lake

What is the elevation of the mountains around Deep Creek?

The area’s average elevation is 2,300 feet above sea level. Backbone Mountain, Maryland’s Highest point, is located in Garrett County.  It reaches 3,360 feet above sea level. The lake itself is about 2,455 above sea level.

What are some Deep Creek Lake activities?

There are almost too many to list! Outdoor recreation includes: boating, swimming, fishing, hiking, skiing, snow tubing, sledding, cross country skiing, kayaking, paddleboarding, white water rafting, golf, biking, wake boarding, ziplines and much more.

More leisurely options include: antique shops, a movie theater, museums, historic sites, restaurants, specialty stores, farmer’s markets and simply enjoying the view. Continue reading 10 Fun Facts About Deep Creek Lake

Top 10 Things to do on a Rainy Day at Deep Creek

On a rainy day at Deep Creek, you might need some ideas to keep your crew entertained. Don’t worry – we’ve got you covered! You won’t hear “I’m bored” if you check out some of the options on our list.

Rainy Day at Deep Creek

Ideas for a Rainy Day at Deep Creek

Deep Creek Funzone – This spot is a “must do” no matter what the weather. Their indoor offerings include an arcade that is packed with favorite games. They also have an expanded lazer tag arena. You can also take advantage of “eat and play” combos to save on meals at the attached restaurant.

Escape Games at Wisp Resort – Use teamwork to solve puzzles with clues, hints and strategy to “escape” the room in a certain amount of time. The theme of the game changes seasonally, so there is always something new. Keep in mind, reservations are required.

Discovery Center at Deep Creek Lake State Park – Truly enjoyable for all ages, the Discovery Center is a one-of-a-kind educational venue. There are hands-on exhibits that focus on the natural resources of Western Maryland. Families can learn about the flora, fauna, wildlife, cultural and historical heritage of the area. Naturalists also lead a variety of indoor programs that often include crafts for the kids. Check their schedule to find out what’s happening during your stay.

Continue reading Top 10 Things to do on a Rainy Day at Deep Creek

Deep Creek Lake September Events and Vacation Specials

Deep Creek Lake September events offer a reason to visit every weekend! This is a quieter time of year when you feel like you have the lake all to yourself. With the busy summer season behind us, the area takes on a leisurely pace that is ideal for relaxation with friends and family.

As an added bonus, you can take advantage of September specials! Get a lake front location and lots of fun amenities for less!

Deep Creek Lake September Events

Deep Creek Lake September Events

Deep Creek Lake Art, Wine & Beer Festival
September 7, Noon-6PM, Garrett County Fairgrounds
With more than 200 wineries, lots of craft brews and area artists on-hand, this is a favorite late summer event. It supports both HART for Animals and the Garrett Lakes Arts Festival. Plus, there is great food, live music and activities for the kids. Plan a stay with Taylor-Made, and you can get discounted tickets too!

2019 AYCE Crab and Shrimp Feast
September 7, 3-9PM, Deep Creek Volunteer Fire Department
A limited number of tickets are available for this fun event that is the perfect follow-up to the Art, Wine & Beer Festival. Come out to show your support for the Deep Creek Lake Volunteer Fire Department! Continue reading Deep Creek Lake September Events and Vacation Specials

August Real Estate Rundown By Jay Ferguson

“There are three kinds of lies: lies, damned lies, and statistics.” – Mark Twain

My name is Jay Ferguson and I am one of the owners of the real estate division of Taylor Made Deep Creek Vacations & Sales. I am entering my 19th year in the real estate business here in Garrett County and at Deep Creek Lake.If you are interested, you can click here find out more about me personally and my background.

I will be writing a monthly blog post about our local real estate market, sharing & interpreting statistics and offering some insights into the market as a whole…as I see it. These are my personal thoughts and musings about the market in general and are not intended as anything more specific. And, to be clear, I am an optimistic, glass half-full kind of guy.

Lastly, every stat I reference is based on the official stats published by Bright MLS on or around the 15th of each month. My plan is to give you straightforward stats coupled with my analysis from the front lines and let you interpret what you read in your own way.

July 2019  – We finished the month with 71 new listings, down from 81 new listings last month. The biggest stat that I report on below is the number of new, pending sales. A whopping 78 new pending sales in July! I believe the recent drop in interest rates helped to fuel this activity, but the growing desire to own a piece of paradise is evident when you are looking at properties in Garrett County & Deep Creek Lake! Continue reading August Real Estate Rundown By Jay Ferguson

Mountain Coaster Fun at Wisp Resort

The Mountain Coaster at Wisp Resort offers year round fun! You have probably never experienced a roller coaster quite like this favorite Deep Creek Lake attraction.

mountain coaster

About the Mountain Coaster

The Mountain Coaster at Wisp Resort is a cross between an Alpine Slide and a roller coaster. It has 1,300 feet of uphill track that builds the suspense. Then, you twist, turn, dip and roll 3,500 feet down the eastern side of Wisp Mountain. Maximum speed is 28 mph. That might not be fast enough to scare coaster enthusiasts, but it is perfect for providing some thrills for everyone. You will ride in a “cart” that holds as many as two riders. Braking is up to you. Continue reading Mountain Coaster Fun at Wisp Resort

Deep Creek Donut Guide – Start Your Morning Right!

Deep Creek Donut Guide

Our Deep Creek Donut guide gives you the scoop on sweet breakfast treats at the lake! There are several spots where you can grab some goodies to take back to your Deep Creek Lake vacation rental home. These spots are loved by locals and visitors alike!

Deep Creek Donut Spots

Deep Creek Donuts
20294 Garrett Highway, Oakland, MD 21550

Using a vanilla cake donut base, they have a lots of options on their menu. You can also choose from dozens of toppings to create your own. Located right next door to the popular Lakeside Creamery, you can eat fresh, hot donuts outside at the picnic tables that overlook the lake. They are open 7 days a week during the summer from 7 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Glazed & Confuzed Donuts
24450 Garrett Highway, McHenry, Maryland

Glazed & Confuzed is a far out food truck serving donuts and hot coffee in Funland’s parking lot. Their extensive menu includes far out options like the “Wild Thang” (maple glaze with bacon) and the “Lake Monster” (vanilla glaze with crushed Oreos). Hours are Wednesday through Sunday, 7 a.m.-2 p.m. during the summer only. Continue reading Deep Creek Donut Guide – Start Your Morning Right!

July 2019 Real Estate Rundown By Jay Ferguson

“There are three kinds of lies: lies, damned lies, and statistics.” – Mark Twain

My name is Jay Ferguson and I am one of the owners of the real estate division of Taylor Made Deep Creek Vacations & Sales. I am entering my 19th year in the real estate business here in Garrett County and at Deep Creek Lake. If you are interested, you can click here find out more about me personally and my background.

I will be writing a monthly blog post about our local real estate market, sharing & interpreting statistics and offering some insights into the market as a whole…as I see it. These are my personal thoughts and musings about the market in general and are not intended as anything more specific. And, to be clear, I am an optimistic, glass half-full kind of guy.

Lastly, every stat I reference is based on the official stats published by Bright MLS on or around the 15th of each month. My plan is to give you straightforward stats coupled with my analysis from the front lines and let you interpret what you read in your own way.

June 2019  – We finished the month with 81 new listings, down from 114 new listings last month. Most sellers have their home on the market by July 4th or so, if they are planning on selling. Of course, there are always late additions to the summer market but that happens every year. June also happened to be VERY rainy and wet. We had several flash flood watches in our area and a lot of that pretty landscaping was washed out in a matter of minutes. Area contractors are having an especially hard time keeping up with their workloads, as the rain set everyone back – especially for outdoor work and exterior paint jobs. Continue reading July 2019 Real Estate Rundown By Jay Ferguson

Wolf Den Run State Park is Deep Creek’s Newest Attraction

Wolf Den Run State Park opened in mid-July of 2019! It is Garrett County’s eighth state park. It is a great addition to our public lands. Totaling over 2,000 acres, it will give you lots more scenery to explore. When it was privately owned, it was used for off-road vehicles (ORVs). The existing trails are being improved when possible and new trails are being developed too. As a state park, it will be open for ORVs, hiking, hunting and fishing.

The park is named after a stream within the park boundaries named Wolf Den Run. It goes back to a 1901 Maryland Geological Survey Map of Garrett County dated. The stream flows through the northern section and into the Potomac River.

Huckleberry Rocks Area

This is the first section of Wolf Den Run State Park to open. Trail improvements have been made, and visitors are welcome with reservations. There are 12.5 miles of trails. Of that, 6.5 miles can be used for full-sized vehicles.

There is a limit of 50 machines per day. You can contact Herrington Manor State Park to reserve your spot. Keep in mind that you do need to have an ORV sticker to ride.

wolf den run state park

Continue reading Wolf Den Run State Park is Deep Creek’s Newest Attraction