nc: Cary, NC Real Estate: Neighborhoods with ponds and fountains - 08/11/08 10:22 PM
While having fun photographing neighborhoods in Cary, I like to catch a few images of the neighborhood community ponds, particularly when I can get some light into the fountains that many ponds have. The ponds are often storm water retention basins, and the fountains serve to oxygenate the water, but I … (9 comments)
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nc: Ashley Woods, Cary, NC: Location and wooded lots. - 08/11/08 09:02 PM
Ashley Woods is a neighborhood of 138 homes located in west Cary, NC.
Development of the neighborhood began in 1993 with just over two dozen homes. With more than one builder in the neighborhood there is a variety of home types for everyone. House styles include ranches, and transitional homes … (0 comments)
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nc: Cary, NC: Fred G. Bond Park is a delightful facility! - 08/09/08 10:40 PM
Fred G. Bond Park is the largest municipal park in Wake County, NC.
At 310 acres, it includes seven ballparks, several picnic shelters, a 300 seat amphitheatre, trails and greenways, The 16,000 square foot Cary Senior Center, a 29,000 square foot Community Center, a large playground, picnic tables, and a 42 acre lake … (1 comments)
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nc: Weatherstone, Cary, NC: Gorgeous homes, beautiful neighborhod! - 08/09/08 10:34 PM
Weatherstone is a mature neighborhood of 200+ move-up homes in Cary. Weatherstone is accessed from High House Road, east of the intersection with Cary Parkway, or from NW Maynard Road. Raleigh is a 20 minute drive. The Research Triangle Park, "RTP," is about the same. Heavy drive-time traffic can lengthen either commute.
The … (0 comments)
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nc: Park Village, Cary, NC: Parks, Pool, and schools. And affordable homes! - 08/09/08 10:11 PM
Park Village is a mature community of 600+ homes in Cary, NC. Park Village is situated on Davis Drive, south of the intersection with High House Road. Raleigh is a 20 minute drive. The Research Triangle Park, "RTP," is about the same. Drive-time traffic may lengthen commutes.
Davis Drive entrance sign
The neighborhood was developed … (0 comments)
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nc: Whitebridge, Cary, NC: No better location in Cary for your move up Home! - 08/09/08 09:57 PM
Whitebridge is a mature neighborhood of 110 homes in Cary. Whitebridge is situated on Davis Drive, just south of the intersection with High House Road. Raleigh is a 20 minute commute. The Research Triangle Park, "RTP," is about the same. Both commutes can vary during heavy drive-time traffic.
The neighborhood was developed in … (0 comments)
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nc: Giverny, Cary, NC: The best kept secret in Cary! - 08/09/08 09:44 PM
Giverny is a pleasant and mature neighborhood of 92 homes off the Cary Parkway. Giverny is nestled in between Bishop's Gate subdivision and Gralyn neighborhood of MacArthur Park. Access to the neighborhood is through Gralyn.
Raleigh is a 20 minute commute. The Research Triangle Park, "RTP," is about the same. … (0 comments)
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nc: Apex and Cary, NC: An evening photo cruise through Suburbia. - 08/08/08 10:58 PM
An evening hour spent cruising neighborhoods and capturing images is relaxing to me. I enjoy looking at landscaping, mature trees, and community amenities.
And even though I know my way into neighborhoods in my home area, that is not the same as driving the streets and culdesacs.
The other evening, I took … (0 comments)
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nc: Montclair, Apex, NC: Suburban charm! - 08/08/08 09:46 PM
Montclair is a small neighborhood of single family homes in northeast Apex. The community is close in proximity to NC 55, Davis Drive, US 64 and downtown Apex.
Montclair's location makes it one of several neighborhoods in the area that provides easy access for commuting on nearby major routes. … (2 comments)
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nc: Devereaux, Cary, NC: Mid-range pricing. High-end beauty! - 08/08/08 09:29 PM
Devereaux is a desirable neighborhood of single family homes in Cary, NC. The neighborhood is located off of NC 55. The popular northwest Cary location provides easy access to Research Triangle Park and Raleigh-Durham International Airport.
The community was developed in the late 90’s by Beazer homes. Homes in … (0 comments)
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nc: Hard Drive Crash and Burn... Oh, the Humanity! - 07/15/08 06:33 AM
"Oh, the Humanity!"
What else does a feller need to say?
Regular backup seemed like a good idea, and I was within two weeks of being current.
That was with Microsoft's Live OneCare. Easy stuff.
Then I restored files. Again, easy stuff. I had … (10 comments)
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nc: Hyper-Local service vendors and "The Necktie Rule" - 07/09/08 10:16 PM
Had a couple of laughs today, and was reminded of all the fun we had with, "Hey! Are we idiots...?"
Hal and I were talking today about how I decided his company would be a good fit for workng on my real estate website.
Way back when, I had told him that it was … (7 comments)
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nc: Continuing Education Personal Record! Only 10 days into the year! - 07/07/08 04:21 PM
Just set up my schedule to earn my CE credits for the year, on Thursday, July 10. I just took last year's mandatory class in May, 2008. This year, without procrastination, I am going to take my mandatory update and also get my elective course all in one day. That is July 10, just … (11 comments)
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nc: Does a good Web 2.0 site "Trap" visitors? - 07/06/08 10:17 PM
My friend and webguy, Hal, mentioned I might reconsider how easily I offer multiple links in neighborhood profile blogs that take visitors off my site. And I jumped up onto my personal Web 2.0 soapbox. Hal should know by now that I always carry a soapbox with me, but he seemed to have forgotten.
I … (35 comments)
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nc: Cary, NC, Real Estate: Northwoods, Affordable homes to Luxury-something for everyone! - 07/06/08 09:04 PM
Northwoods is a group of neighborhoods, a PUD, that was developed from the 1960's through the late 1990’s in Cary, NC.
Northwoods is conveniently located near I 40. Just a short drive down Harrison Ave brings you to exit 287 on I 40. Plenty of shopping is … (0 comments)
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nc: Cary, NC, Real Estate: Irongate is affordable and centrally located - 07/06/08 08:51 PM
Irongate is one of several affordable neighborhoods near the Heart of Cary, NC.
Irongate is perfectly situated near downtown and shopping at the Cary Towne Mall and Crossroads Plaza. The neighborhood is also minutes away from Exit 291 (Cary Towne Blvd) on I-40.
Residents of the neighborhood can enjoy … (1 comments)
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nc: Raleigh NC Real Estate: Avallon offers luxury and is "Close to Everything." - 06/23/08 07:46 PM
Avallon is a custom home community by Drees Homes in a prime Raleigh, NC, location just off of Edwards Mill Road.
View Larger Map
Very close to major shopping areas and the I-440 beltline, this community is a great option for anyone wanting luxury living combined with the convenience … (4 comments)
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nc: Raleigh and Cary, NC: Another Boost from Kiplingers! - 06/23/08 09:39 AM
Walkable cities indeed! #2 city in the USA!
Raleigh and Cary, NC, are featured in this video from Kiplingers.
It is SO easy to be a local booster when one routinely has news like this promoting the area.
And it sure helps the practice of real estate, when relocatees have had access to … (4 comments)
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nc: Cary NC Real Estate: Seeing Red over color of homes? - 06/22/08 12:57 PM
WRAL-TV reported this story on June 12.
Assault on Decency, or Exercise in self-expression protected by property rights? What do you think?
It seems that some Cary, NC, residents are considering asking the Town of Cary to intervene and to develop subjective appearance standards for homes in Cary.
Cary subdivisions have … (8 comments)
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nc: Raleigh NC Real Estate, Rue Sans Famille, Affordable enclave in desirable spot! - 06/21/08 10:35 PM
Located within close proximity of I-440, and Glenwood Avenue, is Rue Sans Famille, an older established neighborhood.
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Rue Sans Famille is close to major shopping areas like Cameron Village or Crabtree Valley Mall; a fine medical facility, Rex Hospital, and is literally a jump … (0 comments)
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nc: Raleigh, NC, Real Estate: Meredith Townes, Wonderful, affordable location! - 06/21/08 09:51 PM
Located along one of the major arteries of Raleigh, NC, Meredith Townes is a townhome neighborhood quietly nestled on wooded lots, in a prime location near the I-440 beltline, Rex Hospital, and other Triangle amenities.
View Larger Map
The residents of Meredith Townes get to enjoy the … (2 comments)
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nc: Cary NC: Seasonal blooms vividly decorate our properties! - 06/21/08 09:22 PM
It seems like something is always in bloom in Cary, NC. The Raleigh area of central North Carolina is a vast gardener's opportunity. I love the opportunity for abundant color, with species following species right into the summer. We are having a bonanza so far this year, following the drought of last … (4 comments)
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nc: Got "Blogger's Block?" You don't have to hit a home run every time! - 06/20/08 10:10 AM
Every Blogger gets a case of writer's block from time to time. Every one. Some recover faster than others, and some suffer tremendously.
I had about a 6 week episode recently where I couldn't do much of anything on my blogs, and it was driving me nuts. I propose the following … (55 comments)
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nc: Cary, NC Real Estate, First Time Buyers? Right here's your red carpet! - 06/18/08 10:47 PM
Twice in the last week, I have been asked if it isn't nerve-racking working with first-time buyers. "Isn't it harder, because they are jittery? Isn't it a pain explaining all the fundamentals in such detail?"
Not really. It is usually a great experience. If First-timers have a fault, it is that … (6 comments)
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nc: Just because you CAN... - 06/18/08 09:50 PM
Just because you CAN:
...drink coffee, dial the phone, brush your teeth, tune the radio, comb your hair, and yell at the kids all at the same time while you drive...
...take your real estate listing photos with your phone...
...get an equity line on your home for cash for a boat...
… (12 comments)
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nc: Lunch and web site chat with Hal - 06/18/08 09:47 PM
I had lunch with my Web Guru, Hal Goodtree, yesterday, and we discussed some possible upgrades and changes to my site. Best of all, he picked up the tab. I'm on the hook for next time and hope he doesn't expect lunch at the Cary version of the Chop House. Oh, whatever. … (10 comments)
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nc: Cary NC Real Estate Adventures: Which key to use? The one in the lockbox, or the one over the door? - 06/17/08 09:46 PM
A while back, I was showing Cary, NC, homes to clients, and we called in on a drive-by to get an appointment to see a home. No problem, got the appointment and the lockbox code.
And the front door was open... A nice couple came out. House was vacant. The Feller said, … (6 comments)
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nc: Cary NC Real Estate Adventures: "So... Where will the litter box go?" - 06/15/08 07:58 PM
"Litter Box Alcove" is not a common feature in a real estate listing.
But, to millions of Americans, a place to put the cat's litter box is a serious consideration and a desirable attribute in a home.
We were looking at affordable condos in Cary this morning and I posed the question.
I … (16 comments)
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nc: Cary, NC Real Estate Adventures: My Buyers can't afford your "Free Bonus!" - 06/15/08 04:41 AM
Can something be "free," and not be "affordable?" Sure. But, I guess in real estate some folks feel they have to "sell what they have." Lately I have bumped into a couple of Cary homes with unpermitted, sub-code finished living areas. When it is mentioned, the Listing Agents' responses have been, "Since it isn't … (4 comments)
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nc: Raleigh, NC: We're #1! We're #1! Again and again! - 06/13/08 07:53 PM
Gotta love it.
This time it is MSNBC saying that the Raleigh, NC, area is the Best Place to live in these United States.
What's not to love?
Half-way between beautiful mountains and great beaches.
Half-way between the Northeast and the Gulf Coast.
Affordable real estate.
World-class universities
World-class technical research and … (3 comments)
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nc: That feller offered me the US Post Office, for only $350/month. He DID! - 06/13/08 07:53 AM
Sometimes I could kick myself. How did I let this one get away? I could have had some choice real estate, the main branch of the Cary, NC, US Post Office, all to myself. I could have been the Realtor of choice. The MAN!
"For only $350/month, you can have the entire 27512 Zip … (13 comments)
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nc: Cary, NC, Real Estate: Preston Village offers custom executive homes in a superior location and setting. - 06/05/08 09:50 PM
Preston Village is a neighborhood of custom executive homes in Cary, NC. The neighborhood is part of Preston, the country club community. Preston Village is conveniently located between NC 55 and Davis Drive. Research Triangle Park (RTP) and Raleigh Durham International Airport are less than ten miles away from Preston Village.
… (2 comments)
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nc: Cary NC Real Estate, Highland Oaks: Executive homes in a superb location in central Cary, NC - 06/05/08 09:13 PM
Highland Oaks is a newer neighborhood of approximately ninety executive homes in Cary, NC. The community is in a location that can’t be beat! It’s perfectly situated between Cary Parkway and Maynard Road. Highland Oaks is located off High House Road .
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The neighborhood was developed from … (0 comments)
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nc: Cary, NC, Real Estate: Willoughby Place offers affordable homes in a convenient location. - 06/05/08 08:01 PM
Willoughby Place is a established neighborhood of affordable homes with generous sized lots in Cary, NC. Willoughby Place is conveniently located near Raleigh and I 40.
The neighborhood was developed in the mid-1980’s. The location near Raleigh and I-40 is convenient for commuting and nearby shopping. Willoughby Place is just … (4 comments)
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nc: Cary, NC, Real Estate: Park Place Townhomes, Affordable quality - 06/05/08 07:52 PM
Park Place is a neighborhood of townhomes with bright and spacious floorplans in Cary, NC. The townhome community is conveniently located off of SW Cary Parkway with easy access to Routes 1, 64 and 40.
The neighborhood was developed in the late 90’s by local builder Steve Dickson. … (0 comments)
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nc: Cary, NC Real Estate: Greenwood Forest, Classic affordable ranch homes! - 06/04/08 10:49 PM
Greenwood Forest is an established neighborhood of affordable homes with large wooded lots in Cary, NC.
The neighborhood is conveniently located near Interstate 40 and US 1/64, Cary Towne Center Mall, Crossroads Plaza, and the future Walnut Street Park.
Greenwood Forest was developed in the 1960's and … (0 comments)
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nc: Cary NC Real Estate: Buckhurst West, Heart of Cary Custom Homes - 06/04/08 10:43 PM
Buckhurst West is a small neighborhood of custom homes by John Leggett in Cary, NC.
Buckhurst West is located off of Harrison Ave with easy access to I 40. It is also in close proximity to Godbold Park and the Black Creek Greenway.
The community was … (0 comments)
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nc: Raleigh NC Real Estate, Laurel Hills, wooded oasis near urban destinations - 06/03/08 10:58 PM
If you are like established neighborhoods where you are more likely to be awakened by singing birds instead of hammers and saws, then Laurel Hills, in Raleigh, NC, would be a good neighborhood to consider.
View Larger Map
Located in the Northwestern area of Raleigh between Edwards Mill … (4 comments)
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nc: Cary, NC, Real Estate: Have your home inspected BEFORE you market it! - 06/03/08 10:39 PM
I wrote a little ad piece for the Cary News in May, to be placed in the "Consult a Specialist" Q & A Section.
The thought was to encourage more Sellers to have a home inspection performed prior to putting their home on the market, and to make all cited repairs. The … (2 comments)
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nc: Blogosphere scoops... BCR, Kiplingers, WRAL, and Raleigh #2 City out of the top 25... - 05/26/08 08:30 PM
I'm usually on top of these "Top 10" and "Top 25" things. They tend to be a little frothy, and a little fun, and a little promotional, and this one got past me.
Leesa tells us about Kiplingers rating Raleigh the #2 city in the USA, based on common parameters.
But earlier … (2 comments)
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nc: Raleigh, NC: #1 for Young Adults! - 05/16/08 09:34 PM
Ring the Bell again! Add another jewel to the crown! Break out the good barbecue!
BizJournals just L-O-V-E-S us here in the Raleigh-Cary area.
"Youthful spirit and economic vitality go hand in hand."
And:
"-- 1. Raleigh: This is the only market to finish in the top 10 in three key … (10 comments)
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nc: Wake County, NC, Real Estate: Market condition blog of the moment! - 05/15/08 10:25 PM
Today we show 9287 Active Wake County, North Carolina, residential Listings in the Triangle NC MLS.
Of those we can deduct about 300 for "Contingent," "Taking Back-Up Offers," or "Temporarily Off the Market."
And we have 2377 Pending, plus 264 "Taking Back-Up Offers," yielding 2641 homes under contract.
We have about 11,618 total Active … (5 comments)
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nc: Days on Market: Pick a number, any number!" - 05/14/08 10:42 PM
I was fooling around with today's Hot Sheets and decided to calculate some DOM figures.
As of 10:35PM today, 57 homes in Wake County, NC, went to "Pending" status on the Triangle MLS.
Average Days on Market: 96. Not too pretty...
Well, let's deduct the 4 that went from "Active" to "Pending" to "Closed" … (13 comments)
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nc: Raleigh, NC: We got the power! Brainpower! - 04/16/08 07:23 PM
BizJournals ranks the Raleigh Metro area #8 in Brainpower.
It isn't like making the Final Four, I suppose, but recognition of all that cranial capacity sure is heartwarming anyway.
The RTP, University of North Carolina, NC State, Duke, SAS in Cary, and myriad other innovative employers have created a climate of excellence … (11 comments)
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nc: Azalea season in Cary, and I want to show every house in town! - 04/16/08 06:22 AM
Curb appeal, that all important "first impression," just went over the top in Cary, and all over Wake County, NC, with the opening of the annual Azalea blooming season!
Riotous color adorns the most humble homes, or beautiful estates, many from plantings of a generation or two ago.
I don't think there is another common landscape planting … (11 comments)
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nc: A Flower Rant! - 03/25/08 07:45 PM
I like flowers. All sorts of flowers. Lots of flowers. Colorful flowers. Tall flowers. Low flowers. Scented flowers. Unscented flowers.
Snapdragons, daisies, sunflowers, black-eyed Susans, roses, peonies, jasmine, jessamine,
Pansies
Hollyhocks, clover, Baby's Breath, Astroemeria, Carnations, dandelions, lilacs, honeysuckle, Daphne
Violas,
Lilies, day lilies, gladiolus, azaleas, rhododendron, mountain laurel, forsythia, hyacinth, daffodils
Tulips
Ah-h--h Spring! With lots … (28 comments)
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nc: Chapel Hill, NC: 705 N Estes Drive, A nicely updated Contemporary Ranch Home - 03/24/08 06:54 AM
Mark wanted to do an updating project. We found this home in Chapel Hill, NC, and thought it had potential.
I think Mark did a real nice job in bringing out the potential of this 23 year old ranch home.
It is within walking distances of some of the region's best rated schools, … (9 comments)
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nc: Raleigh, NC: 4th annual Krispy Kreme Challenge! - 01/26/08 05:50 PM
I love this event, and missed it again.
Next year, for sure. From the sidelines, but I will be there.
3000 North Carolina State University stalwarts braved the chilly morning.
The challenge?
Run two miles from the NC State University Bell Tower to the iconic Krispy Kreme store downtown.
Eat a dozen glazed donuts, and run … (10 comments)
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nc: Cary NC Real Estate Adventures: "I am not a Lead." I love it! - 01/20/08 11:01 PM
A friend in the office told me he had picked up a good lead.
He asked, "How many leads are you working now?"
Me: "I don't work with leads."
Kind of a conversation-stopper. I had to offer more.
Me: "I'm in the people business."
And, what a coincidence....
The very next day, I came across Chris Drayer's … (16 comments)
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nc: Cary NC Real Estate Adventures: Closing Coordinator Keeps Grateful Agent On Track! - 01/19/08 06:50 PM
Yep, that's right.
Claire Hanes helped me slip out of the transaction strait-jacket. It helps me be a better agent.
And that is what I owe my clients, continuously improved agency.
I'm a little bit of a control freak, so sometimes it is hard to let go of details. And I would be pulling my … (4 comments)
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nc: Cary NC Real Estate, Wake County Public School System Reassignment... - 01/16/08 09:12 AM
With the dynamic growth of Wake County, NC, providing seats in schools is a difficult task for the Wake County Public School System. WCPSS is subject to criticism because of the nature of the beast.
Too many kids are added faster than facilities can be provided.
This is compounded by a policy of attempting to achieve … (2 comments)
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nc: Cary NC Real Estate, "Please don't eat the REALTOR!" - 01/16/08 06:56 AM
Too much variation in Realtor quality?
Too many business approaches that confuse the consumer?
A new day is dawning. Ripped from the headlines in today's New York Times:
"FDA says Cloned Food is Safe!"
Jon Foster's quote is the clincher, "When you buy a box of Cheerios in New York and one in Champaign, Illinois, you … (14 comments)
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nc: Cary NC Real Estate: Internet presence. Design for current and future users or dial-up? - 01/16/08 06:18 AM
Scrolling through the Real Estate Agent Web Design Tips group postings this morning, I came across this post by Agent Web Design about designing for screen resolutions to cater to as many users as possible
We are being dragged kicking and screaming into a broadband/widescreen world.
I understand the inclination and relative desirability of designing … (0 comments)
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nc: Cary and Raleigh, NC Real Estate: News and Observer gets one right! No need to buy foreclosure lists! - 01/10/08 07:08 PM
The Raleigh News and Observer seldom misses an opportunity to get real estate facts twisted. But today, they got one right, pointing out that foreclosure lists are free, and there is no need for the average person to pay for those lists.
"Ads sell foreclosure info that's free" on the front page … (5 comments)
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nc: Cary NC Real Estate Adventures: Foggy windows - 01/04/08 08:20 AM
Double pane windows are standard on homes in the Wake County, NC, area since the 1970's.
Unfortunately, they are built to different quality levels.
Some just fail before others, and it is not uncommon to walk into a 15 year old Cary or Raleigh home and see multiple windows with fog, or even dripping water, … (10 comments)
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nc: Cary NC Real Estate, How to avoid selling your home: Aggravate the Buyer with weird negotiations. - 01/03/08 10:53 PM
Three weeks before Christmas in Cary, NC....
Me: Buyer will go $108,000.
LA counters at $119,000 from list price of $120,000.
Buyer says whoa. Just doesn't want to push nickels back and forth to get there.
No deal. No problem. It happens. They can't all be deals.
Three weeks pass. LA calls me.
LA: "Seller will do … (12 comments)
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nc: Cary NC Real Estate, How to avoid selling your home: Backyard Dog Bombs are NOT "Upgraded Features" - 12/08/07 10:37 PM
What can I say beyond the title? What do I need to say. Apparently something should be said to someone.
Two homes today where we couldn't see the exterior. We were too busy looking where we were walking.
I swear, that one house had to be home to two 600 pound mutts on … (24 comments)
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nc: Cary, NC Real Estate: MLS Upgrade coming in 2008! Better client service on the horizon. - 12/07/07 11:28 PM
While the Triangle MLS TEMPO system is obviously antiquated, we have been given some hope for 2008.
What I want from an MLS solution is easy access to current and historical data, and a platform to organize data, store it, and ship it to my clients and prospects.
We will be upgraded from TEMPO … (2 comments)
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nc: Cary NC Real Estate: Local Real Estate Expert located by National Press through ActiveRain! Hi, Mr. Inman!!! - 12/06/07 07:20 PM
I got a call from Glenn Roberts at Inman News today.
Yessireee, he found this humble Cary, NC, real estate agent through ActiveRain.
He found my blog on AR and interviewed me about my opinion of the subprime mortgage bailout.The quotes aren't perfect, but they work for me...
This is the 2nd time in 2007 that blogging, AR blogging to … (18 comments)
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nc: Cary NC Real Estate Adventures: We'll go around the world to get the comps we want! - 12/05/07 07:34 AM
We popped into the townhome, and my client said she could be interested in it, although it needs heavy redecoration.
But it was priced about 11% high, well above anything that has ever sold in this Cary, NC, complex.
Calculating values in townhome complexes is not too hard when only a few models and elevations … (4 comments)
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nc: Wake County North Carolina Property Tax Assessed Value vs. True Sales Value. The Missing Link is.......MISSING! - 12/04/07 06:53 AM
Now that we have our new Assessed Tax Valuations in Wake County North Carolina, we are seeing the usual suspects come out of the woodwork in and around Cary and Raleigh, and other areas.
Already real estate agents are huffing and puffing about assessed tax value, hoping to mislead people regarding the market … (2 comments)
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nc: Cary, NC Real Estate Adventures: Full-Service Agent crawls under House. Buyer Client follows. What fun!! - 12/03/07 09:17 PM
You read it right. Belly-crawling it was.
We've toured the home twice, and my clients want to know what the potable water supply piping system is.
In this area, built in 1995, that is quite likely to be polybutylene, with copper risers, a common method with local tract builders in the 1990's in … (7 comments)
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nc: Restrictive Covenants: No rendering plants, No trucks, "No person of any race other than the Caucasian race..." - 11/25/07 10:15 PM
"No person of any race other than the Causcasian race shall use or occupy any building or any lot, except that this covenant shall not prevent occupancy by domestic servants of a different race domicilied with an owner or tenant."
Seriously. A walk down Memory Lane. Not a particulary proud or joyful … (15 comments)
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nc: Wake County North Carolina Property Tax: How to submit your Re-Assessment Appeals - 11/21/07 09:11 PM
With the average reassessment increasing property tax valuations 40% on average across Wake County, The first reactions of many people, after a little shock, was "How do I get THIS fixed."
Well, don't rush the Wake County Courthouse with torches and pitchforks... It is well-secured.
Wake County, NC, Courthouse: You won't get in … (12 comments)
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nc: Vanity License Plates...Who's got 'em? Who has the best one? - 11/20/07 07:16 PM
Some agents use magnetic sign panels, car wraps, or lettering to notify the public they work in real estate.
I have a license plate frame with my name and phone number on it.
Also, I have a vanity plate on my truck that says: ELEVATE!
I like it. It's simple, conveys my optimism, and is … (25 comments)
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nc: Cary NC Real Estate, Picardy Village: Wooded Lots and Custom Homes - 11/19/07 10:02 PM
Picardy Village entrance sign
Picardy Village is a cozy neighborhood of custom-built homes in Cary, NC. Picardy Village is off the west side of Lake Pine Road, between the Cary Parkway and US 64. Picardy Village is adjacent to Picardy Pointe.
See the Picardy Village photo set on Flickr.
Downtown Raleigh and NC State University are about … (9 comments)
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nc: Wake County North Carolina Property Tax Re-Assessments go public today. Average 40% increase! - 11/19/07 08:51 PM
Sounds bad, right? A 40% increase in assessed Tax Values in Wake County, NC real estate tax values for 2008.
There's a little more to the story, as well-reported by WRAL-TV.
1. The property tax bills will not increase by 40% immediately. The Wake County tax rate will be reduced to prevent a massive … (4 comments)
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nc: Cary NC Real Estate, "Remove shoes?" My reply: "Please turn up the HEAT!" - 11/19/07 02:45 PM
Sure, I press my clients to remove shoes in a nice clean home, when the Seller makes the request. It is courtesy, and reasonable. And some cultures just do not wear shoes in the house. Respect. I'm all for it.
But we are approaching winter in North Carolina. NC winter is … (12 comments)
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nc: Cary NC Real Estate, "A-a-ahhh, Autumn! When a young man's fancy turns to deadly CARBON MONOXIDE! - 11/15/07 05:01 PM
It's Fall, a beautiful time of the year in North Carolina, as the trees turn colors and light up the streets with the brightness of their foliage.
And it is the time of year when furnaces come on for the first time in months. Also a great time to have an inspection … (8 comments)
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nc: Cary and Raleigh, NC Real Estate: Is the all one-level, easy living, classic ranch house making a comeback? - 11/14/07 09:32 PM
Is the ranch house coming back? Oh...you know: The classic '60's rancher. Single level living, with no stairs and low maintenance.
Oakwood Heights, Cary, NC
It seems to me that it is, and that spells good news for many Raleigh and Cary residents who should see great price support for their classic ranchers.
Enchanted … (12 comments)
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nc: Cary NC Real Estate, Picardy Pointe: Custom homes on wooded lots in a tremendous Cary location - 11/10/07 09:25 PM
Picardy Pointe entrance sign
Picardy Pointe is a neighborhood of custom-built homes on the edge of Cary, NC. Many of the homes have a view of the Apex Community Park Lake.
Picardy Pointe is off the west side of Lake Pine Road, between the Cary Parkway and US 64.
See the 47 photo set … (4 comments)
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nc: Cary NC Real Estate, Closing table grins and chuckles... - 11/10/07 03:24 PM
Sometimes getting the keys conveyed properly is a small hurdle.
Folks sign all the paperwork, and expect to get the keys. Legally, they do not own the home in North Carolina until the deed is recorded. And that is the best time to hand over the keys, after recording of the deed. … (14 comments)
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nc: Cary and Raleigh, NC Real Estate: Fix and Flip? Don't skimp on "Fix!" - 11/08/07 08:57 PM
Today I went with a Buyer client to his home inspection on a project home under contract, and we discussed some of the repairs and upgrades he could do on the home.
It looks like there is enough margin in the job to really do a sharp job on the house, and make it very … (7 comments)
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nc: Cary NC Real Estate, A Visit to Royal Ridge - 11/07/07 11:41 AM
We cruised through Royal Ridge in Cary, NC, last Saturday night to view the beautiful custom homes and the heavily wooded lots.
Royal Ridge is a mature residential neighborhood in the center of Cary, NC. Royal Ridge is located off the Southwest Cary Parkway, between Kildaire Farm Road and Lake Pine Drive. See the Royal Ridge slideshow … (4 comments)
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nc: Cary, NC, Real Estate: The Fabulous Moolah is GONE! - 11/06/07 07:57 PM
Man, I'm glad she made her mark in Wrassling instead of Real Estate.
Imagine going up against the Fabulous Moolah in a contentious transaction!
I mean, would you take a flying drop kick for your client?
Mary Lillian Ellison, aka, "the Fabulous Moolah" passed away last Friday.
Some fun facts I gleaned from the NY … (5 comments)
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nc: Cary, NC Real Estate: Trees! The Woods of Kildaire is the antidote for barren landscapes! - 11/05/07 09:39 PM
My wife accompanied me for a Saturday evening drive through the Woods of Kildaire, Cary, NC. Many of the photos show the development of dusk, and the quietude of life in a wooded preserve.
Woods of Kildaire is a mature affordable neighborhood in the center of Cary, NC. Woods of Kildaire is situated off the SW Cary Parkway. Access … (2 comments)
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nc: Cary and Raleigh, NC Real Estate: Flood Plain Disclosure added to revised standard "Offer to Purchase and Contract" for 2008 - 11/04/07 09:14 PM
Flood Plain issues cloud many North Carolina real estate transactions.
More often or not, all responsibility for determining whether a property was in a flood plain fell to the Buyer, and there was little remedy in the Contract if the property was determined to be in a flood plain.
Now, the 2008 revision … (4 comments)
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nc: Cary and Raleigh, NC, Real Estate: 2008 Standard forms: Offer to Purchase and Contract and governmental bodies - 11/02/07 08:39 PM
We get into the changes in the 2008 North Carolina Offer to Purchase and Contract in the first paragraph:
"NOTE: Government authority over taxes, zoning, school districts, utilities, and mail delivery may differ from address shown."
It isn't a major change, nor is it an impediment to a smooth transaction. It alerts the Buyer … (4 comments)
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nc: Cary and Raleigh, NC, Real Estate: First frost this week, on top of the drought! Gardener Alert! - 11/01/07 08:54 PM
How could there have been enough humidity to make a frost this week?
We can't seem to squeeze out a few drops of rain dependably, but we can make the roofs white with frost. Hmmmmmm.
I hope my plantings do all right. Gardening in Cary and Raleigh, NC is a delight and a … (11 comments)
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nc: Cary NC Real Estate, Affordable Shade Trees in Farren Forest - 10/31/07 10:56 PM
Hey! Let's meander through the shade in Farren Forest, Cary, NC:
Farren Forest is a mature affordable neighborhood in the center of Cary, NC. Farren Forest is situated off the SE Cary Parkway. Access to the neighborhood is also available through Stonehaven. Access and egress to and from the neighborhood are easy.
Raleigh and NC State University are a 15-20 minute commute. The … (5 comments)
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nc: Apex, NC Real Estate, Cameron Park, Affordable Custom-built Homes with style and location! - 10/28/07 10:40 PM
Cameron Park is a mature neighborhood in the center of Apex, NC. Access to the neighborhood is from Olive Chapel Road or through Dogwood Ridge, or Amherst. Getting to and from the neighborhood is easy.
Raleigh and North Carolina State University are an easy 20 to 25 minute commute. Cary is an easy 10 minute drive. Regional employment center, the Research Triangle Park, … (0 comments)
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nc: Apex, NC Real Estate, Dogwood Ridge, Affordable homes to executive homes, in one desirable location! - 10/28/07 09:12 AM
Dogwood Ridge is a mature neighborhood in the center of Apex, NC. Access to the neighborhood is from Olive Chapel Road or through Pearson Farms, Cameron Park, or Amherst. Access and egress to and from the neighborhood are very convenient.
See my slideshow of Dogwood Ridge on Flickr.
Raleigh and North Carolina State University are an easy 20 to 25 minute … (0 comments)
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nc: Apex, NC Real Estate, Pearson Farms: Affordable Homes and Great Location! - 10/27/07 07:04 PM
Pearson Farms is a mature neighborhood in the center of Apex, NC. Access to the neighborhood is from Olive Chapel Road or through Dogwood Ridge. Access and egress to and from the neighborhood are convenient.
Raleigh and North Carolina State University are an easy 20 to 25 minute commute. Cary is a 10 minute drive. Major employment center, the Research Triangle … (2 comments)
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nc: Cary NC Real Estate, "To Be Added Drive " - 10/27/07 10:28 AM
The new Triangle MLS upgrades have been very positive, and gone seamlessly, at least to my eye.
One thing I really like is the standardization of streets and subdivisions.
When a listing is input, the agent will have to select a street from a database of streets. Likewise with subdivisions.
This will eliminate … (0 comments)
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nc: Cary NC Real Estate: You gotta love a Rainy Night! We're celebrating! - 10/25/07 02:22 PM
Sure we have an ongoing drought in almost all of North Carolina.
No doubt about it.
But we've had some rain! Last night it rained hard in Raleigh,NC, and in Cary, Apex, and surrounding towns.
And it has been beautifully gloomy, overcast, and drippy all day today!
Generally I like to take pretty photos with a … (5 comments)
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nc: Cary and Raleigh, NC, Real Estate: Vender Referrals. Don't we owe it to our clients to take on some Liability? - 10/24/07 06:26 AM
How can we claim to be professionals and fiduciaries and then tell our real estate clients to go to the Yellow Pages for venders when we know capable and ethical service providers we can recommend?
I started to respond to Randy Prothero's post on this topic, and got long-winded enough to build a … (13 comments)
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nc: Cary, NC, Real Estate: Ridgepath Heavily Wooded lots and pretty traditional homes - 10/21/07 03:39 PM
Cary, NC: Ridgepath is our tour today.
Ridgepath is a mature neighborhood in the center of Cary, NC. Access to the neighborhood is from the SE Cary Parkway, or through Wimbledon. Access and egress to and from the neighborhood are easily accomplished.
Raleigh and North Carolina State University are an easy 15 to 20 minute commute. The Research Triangle Park, … (6 comments)
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nc: Cary and Raleigh, NC, Real Estate: This drought of 2007 is for real! - 10/21/07 12:35 PM
Sweetie and I took a quick ride to Falls Lake this morning to view the lake level. Falls Lake provides drinking water to Raleigh, North Carolina, and several smaller towns who buy water from Raleigh.
We know the lake is low. We have seen the photos on TV, in the newpaper, and … (4 comments)
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nc: Cary, NC Real Estate: Home Inspection Roofing Follies...Pipe Boots? Kick-out flashings? Oh, My! - 10/20/07 10:18 PM
So, your listing is under contract and your Buyer has sent you a North Carolina Repair Request and agreement, asking you to do some roof repairs:
"Repair nail pops in shingles."
Sounds simple enough. I guess. What's a "Nail Pop?"
'Replace 3 split pipe boots."
Oka-a-ay. Uh-h..What the heck is a "pipe boot?"
"Install kick-out flashing … (12 comments)
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nc: Cary NC Real Estate, Do you do "Animal House" Real Estate? - 10/18/07 09:42 PM
What should the relationship with a real estate agent feel like?
Should a client or prospective client expect consultation... or manipulation?
Pressure, or presentation of facts?
Old school boiler room tactics, or the comfort of working with an agent who really cares?
I prefer to work with clients on a personal basis, responding to their needs, and anticipating … (7 comments)
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nc: Cary and Raleigh, NC Real Estate: Buyers' Agents...Lock it up! Turn out the lights! - 10/17/07 07:07 AM
Sometimes you focus on your Buyer, but sometimes you owe a little attention to the Seller, too. Seems to me that is the case when doing the little things like locking up and turning out the lights after showing a home. Keith and Robin Perry's post indicates how common the problem is of … (11 comments)
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nc: Wake County NC Real Estate: TMLS Update to allow 12 photos per listing - 10/17/07 06:25 AM
Just got my TMLS newsletter yesterday.
The North Carolina Triangle Multi-List System will soon allow the Listing Agent to upload 12 photographs for every listing. We have been limited to ten photos. This will be a boon to those of us who shoot 50 to 100 photos of each home and have a hard … (4 comments)
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nc: Raleigh, NC Real Estate: Cranes Over Raleigh! Downtown investment in condos and hotels. - 10/16/07 10:00 PM
I get a kick out of tower cranes. The fellows who operate them have responsibility for the safety of all the folks below, and much of the work depends on the teamwork and trust in fellow workers.
Multi-ton components are maneuvered above the city streets, and precisely placed.
Anyway, lately, Raleigh, North Carolina has … (2 comments)
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nc: Cary NC Real Estate, Treo snaps vs. Kodak Photos. Talk on the phone. Take photos with a Camera! - 10/11/07 08:18 PM
Anyone serious about selling their home might like their agent to be a little technically hooked up. I find my Treo 700WX to be priceless. I might even love my Treo. (I even put it on my desk before going to the rest room.)
I like that my Treo has a camera, … (11 comments)
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nc: Cary NC Real Estate, Amazing gas main fire in Cary, 10/10/2007 - 10/10/07 04:17 PM
A backhoe operator pierced a gas main today before lunch at the intersection of Kildaire Farm and Tryon Roads in Cary, NC. Our Keller Williams Cary office is just down the street less than a quarter mile. This is one of the busiest intersections in Cary, and will be blocked off … (10 comments)
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nc: Raleigh, NC, Real estate: Update and stage, or clean and sell it "as-is?" - 10/08/07 10:29 PM
I visited with the listing prospect in Raleigh, NC, the other day.
I knew what I was going to see: an older home that hadn't been loved very much for quite a while.
He had other interests.
We could have made a long list of things to do to the property.
Or, and this is what I did: We … (5 comments)
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nc: Cary, NC, Real Estate: Shabby paint work hurts the house! - 10/08/07 10:17 PM
Enough already.
I went out to preview a Cary, NC, property for out-of-country Buyers tonight.
It has fresh paint, new carpet, and refinished hardwood floors.
All it needs is a few updates.
All it needs is: fresh paint, new carpet, and refinished hardwood floors.
That's right. It's messed up pretty thoroughly.
The paint work is horrendous. Receptacle and … (4 comments)
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nc: North Carolina State Fair is upon us, October 12 --21, 2007 - 10/04/07 08:07 AM
It's time for the North Carolina State Fair to be held in Raleigh NC.
At the Fairgrounds!
And there is something for everyone.
Whether you love to see some of the finest livestock to be found anywhere, love thrill rides, crave deep-fried health food, enjoy seeing handicrafts, lust to Whack-a-Mole, need to have … (5 comments)
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nc: Apex, NC Real Estate, Kelly Glen, Affordable homes on rural wooded lots - 10/03/07 09:21 PM
Kelly Glen, on a rural ridge along Kelly Road, in Apex, NC, is a neighborhood of quality starter homes built by local custom builders in the 1990's.
Homes range from 1200 to 2200 square feet and ranchers and 1.5 story homes are common. Most typical is the 3/2 home, with a few … (2 comments)
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nc: Apex, NC Real Estate, Crockett's Ridge, Affordable value and space, in a rural setting - 10/03/07 07:50 PM
Crockett's Ridge in Apex, North Carolina is a newer subdivision in a convenient rural location. Commuting to Raleigh, or Cary is done with ease. Built by KHovnanian Homes, Crockett's Ridge features great square footage for the price to folks who need affordable space. With a new phase, new homes are available. Homes range … (4 comments)
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