All Blog Entries by Lauren Johnson

The Choo Choo's nostalgia with restaurants inside,
Walkable Northshore, Coolidge Carousel rides,
Outdoor adventures in fall, summer, and spring,
These are a few of our favorite things.

The Tennessee aquarium with penguins galore,
Hamilton Place shopping, an abundance of stores,
Festivals and concerts with artists who sing,
These are a few of our favorite things.

When we travel,
Getting homesick,
And we're feeling sad...
We simply remember the city we love,
And then we don't feel so bad.

Watching the Lookouts and Red Wolves play games,
A 16-mile Riverwalk and ample bike lanes,
Distilleries, art, battlefields; rich history they bring,
These are a few of our favorite things.

Surrounding mountains boast breath-taking views,
Enjoying the sights from a riverboat…

Older homes can charm potential buyers with their character, history, and craftsmanship. However, purchasing an older property requires just as much (sometimes more) careful consideration as newer builds. To ensure it's the right fit for your needs and budget, there are several items to investigate.

We strongly recommend hiring a home inspector, no matter what home you're looking to purchase. This can help alleviate concerns and protect buyers from jumping into a contract on a home that requires more than they want to give. Here are a few questions you may want to ask:

- "What's the condition of the roof, foundation, and structure?" 
These are critical components of any home, and knowing more about them will help you avoid costly surprises later.

…

If there's anyone excited about the holiday season, it's The Torgerson Team! Living in Chattanooga has its perks, including tons of holiday events to take in through November and December. We've got a few favorites to brighten your holiday planning.

Rock City's "Enchanted Garden of Lights"

• Where: Lookout Mtn, GA
• When: Nov 22 - Jan 4 (nightly, closed Christmas Eve)
• Cost: $31-35 (tickets ONLY available online ahead of time)

A Chattanooga classic, Rock City's EGL is a magical experience for all ages. Wander through thousands of sparkling lights with themed sections like the "Arctic Kingdom" and "Magic Forest". Enjoy warm cocoa, live entertainment, and treats for the kids. Santa will be visiting until December 23!

Chattanooga…

Buying a home is a significant milestone, but before starting the search, most buyers need to be financially prepared to qualify for a mortgage. Securing a home loan involves a detailed review of your financial health, and preparing in advance can make the process smoother. Here are some key steps to improve your chances of qualifying:

• Check Your Credit Score

Your credit score plays a crucial role. Most lenders use it to assess your creditworthiness and determine the interest rate you'll receive. Typically, a score of 620 or higher is required for most conventional loans, although some government-backed loans (like FHA) may accept lower scores.

Before applying for a mortgage, check your score with a free credit report from all three…

Moving to Chattanooga opens up a world of outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and local delights. Whether you're settling in with family or exploring solo, here are ten must-do activities that should be on your bucket list:

1. Visit Lookout Mountain: Explore Rock City Gardens' enchanting rock formations and panoramic views. Don't miss the iconic Lover's Leap and Fairyland Caverns. 
   
   
2. Experience the Tennessee Aquarium: Dive into aquatic wonders at the aquarium downtown, where you can encounter creatures from river otters to sharks. The River Journey and Ocean Journey exhibits offer immersive experiences for all ages. (Plus, there's air conditioning for those hot summer days!)
   
   
3. Hike Stringer's Ridge Park: Embrace the city's outdoor spirit…

In today's world, where sustainability and cost-efficiency are becoming increasingly important, energy-efficient upgrades to your home not only help the environment but also save dollars over time. One of the most beneficial ways to offset the cost of these upgrades is through energy-efficient rebates offered by many governmental and utility programs. 

For those unfamiliar with the term, energy efficient rebates are financial incentives provided by governments, utility companies, or other organizations to encourage homeowners to invest in energy-saving technologies and practices. These rebates can significants reduce the upfront costs of upgrades, allowing more accessibility and affordability. Common examples include:

• Appliances: Purchasing…

We can't wait for the crisp air and vibrant colors of fall to show up in our area, especially with the festive events and activities that are happening soon. It's time to don your sweaters and get ready for some fun! We've rounded up some of the top fall-themed events in and around Chattanooga for 2024 so you don't have to.

As we creep up on Halloween, Ruby Falls will be hosting a special edition of their after-hour Lantern Tours. As published on their website, come hear "ghost stories from the history of Ruby Falls and Chattanooga legends. Hear the cryptic tales by the light of hand-held lanterns on the walk to the waterfall and visit the sites of peculiar encounters, mischievous mayhem, and tragedy". 

The Chattanooga Market is always a…

Ensuring your home is a safe haven should be a top priority for every homeowner. From preventing accidents to deterring intruders, here are some essential tips to help you protect everyone and everything under your roof. 

1. Secure Your Entry Points
The first line of defense against unwelcome persons is securing your doors and windows. Invest in sturdy deadbolt locks on exterior doors and a strike plate for added reinforcement. You can also install window locks, if they're not already in place. Make sure all entry points are well-lit. Motion sensor lights may also be a worthwhile purchase.

2. Install a Security System
A reliable security system can provide peace of mind by alerting you to potential threats. Modern systems offer a range of…

Chattanooga is known as the "Scenic City" for very good reason; it's packed with stunning views, historical sites, and tons of fun attractions. Did you know that it is also a gateway to ample other picturesque and fascinating destinations in the Southeast? Whether you're in the mood for outdoor adventure, small-town local flair, or a taste of history, these day trip destinations - ranging from 30 minutes to two hours away - offer something for everyone.

1. Cloudland Canyon State Park (30-40 minutes)
Just across the Georgia state line is a nature lover's paradise. Visitors can enjoy hiking along the canyon's rim, with breathtaking views of the valleys below. The park features trails for all skill levels, including the popular West Rim Loop Trail and…

Moving homes is an exciting but often stressful experience, and it can be even more challenging with beloved pets. Our pets thrive on routine and familiarity, so a sudden major change can cause anxiety and confusion. However, with careful planning and thoughtful prep, you can ensure a smooth transition for humans and furry friends alike.

Preparing for the Move

Before moving day arrives, start by gradually introducing them to moving supplies like boxes and packing material. Maintain a consistent routine with feeding, walking, and playtime to keep them calm. If you have a particularly anxious pet, it may be helpful to proactively discuss options with your vet, such as calming aids or additional techniques.

If you're moving to a new city,…