With Halloween right around the corner now is the time to be sure that you HOME is ready for the trick-or-treaters that are about to come knocking on your door!  Here are a few quick tips to be sure that you are providing a safe environment for all the little goblins that come to your door! To keep homes safe for visiting trick-or-treaters, parents should remove from the porch and front yard anything a child could trip over such as garden hoses, toys, bikes and lawn decorations. Parents should check outdoor lights and replace burned-out bulbs. Wet leaves should be swept from sidewalks and steps. Restrain pets so they do not inadvertently jump on or bite a trick-or-treater. In addition to safety around your home some other items that may prove helpful are: A parent or responsible adult s... 10/15/2010

I received my first phone call today from a seller that is contemplating taking their home off the market over the Holidays and re-listing after the New Year.  She asked me what I thought and here is what I told her. Homes are at their cleanest and most attractive at this time of year.  With all of the families visiting and festivities around us the homes are decorated beautifully!  Every sense a buyer has is touched in some way from the sights of homes lit up with lights, to the sounds of Holiday music, to the smells of baking cookies and fresh cut pine trees, to the tastes of warm cider and the feel of crisp, clean air. Buyers that are intending to relocate to the area are most likely to use this time of year to visit the area and research schools, homes for sale, the city, the amenit... 10/15/2010

Holding Park in Wake Forest NC is one of the most active parks in the Wake Forest Park System.  Why?  Because there is SO much to do there!  Holding Park is located centrally in Wake Forest NC and consists of 5 acres of natural beauty and family fun!  This gorgeous park is the focal point of many events throughout the year and for good reason.  Holding Park is home to the public Wake Forest NC swimming pool.  This pool is 50 meters and is a true hot spot during the summer months in Wake Forest NC.  Not only is the pool open in the summer for general swimming but there is also swim lessons available, water aerobics, parent-child swim times and lap swim times. You can also find the Wake Forest Community House at Holding Park.  The Community House is utilized for many activities such as fa... 10/15/2010

Saddle Run in Wake Forest NC is a small enclave of homes tucked away off of Chalks Road.  This gorgeous collection of homes has quite a few entries in the 2010 Parade of Homes and for good reason!  With extra special touches such as: Stamped Concrete Patios Reading Nooks Master Suites with Sitting Areas Coffered Ceilings Covered Decks ...and More... You simply can't pass up the opportunity to explore what is currently available in this new community or even what you could possibly build to really customize it and make it your own. Currently, there are three completed homes for sale in Saddle Run that range in price from $305,250.00 - $319,500.00.  Square footage is in the 3000 range and all three homes have very different floorplans giving each it's own personal "feel".  This location i... 10/11/2010

So, just who is behind some of the exciting things that go on in Wake Forest?  The Wake Forest Cultural Arts Association, of course!  The WFCAA was formed in 1988 to reinforce the positive identity of Wake Forest as a distinct community.  Like so many other parts of the country smaller communities get blended in with their larger counterparts only to lose their individuality.  NOT Wake Forest!  There is still a distinct richness Wake Forest retaines with the help, vision and direction of the WFCAA.  It is their mission to enhance the cultural life of Wake Forest to further enrich the lives of it's residents.  They support numerous art programs and support the local artists. You know all of the events I mention such as Artists Studio Tours, Historic Homes Tours, Autumn Arts Festival, Six... 10/10/2010

It was BEAUTIFUL in Wake Forest NC today and I was fortunate to be out and about with clients this morning touring some homes for sale.  There were some really gems in the mix and then there were those that didn't quite make the list. Anyhow, all of the homes were similar in size, price, private back yards and in close proximity to each other.  All of the homes would fit my clients needs nicely.  What surprised me with each of the homes was that they had another similarity.  They were all a "little" dirty.  Now, let me explain a "little" dirty.  It was obvious in each of the homes that they were family homes.  Adults with children.  From peeking in closets, pantries and bathrooms I can see that they left in haste in the morning but had all done their best to put things in their proper p... 10/10/2010

Wake Forest NC Expedition - Focus on Twin Creeks Twin Creeks in Wake Forest NC is an scenic little pocket of homes tucked in behind Olde Mill Stream meaning there is ZERO through traffic.  The developers did a brilliant job back in 2007 when the area was first being developed maintaining the natural surroundings and leaving as many trees as possible in tact.  This small neighborhood is peaceful and most definitely tranquil! While there are a few homes that were built in 2007 - 2009 the majority are brand new homes with a few lots left available to build on.  Some of the builders you can find in Twin Creeks are Turning Point Builders, Walt Lewis Construction and Humphries Builders.  Their homes are outstanding displays of masterful construction with standard details and finishes that wou... 10/09/2010

If you are just starting your home search then a great way to get to know a few neighborhoods is by visiting Open Houses!  Sure, you can spend time on-line at the MULTITUDE of sites like Craigslist and the News and Observer or spend time going bleary-eyed looking through the newspaper but WHY? All you have to do is check out my Open House finder for ALL the Open Houses in the Triangle NC area including Wake Forest, Cary, Raleigh, Youngsville, Apex, Chapel Hill and MORE!  With just a few quick clicks you can enter your price range, bedrooms/baths, and area and in seconds have ALL the Open Houses in the area you choose right at your fingertips.  Yes, it really is that simple!!  There is no registration required so why are you waiting? For some great tips on Open House etiquette and what t... 10/09/2010

I am not sure why people stay in relationships whether personal or professional when one is not happy.  Believe me, if one is not happy then, chances are, neither is the other.  There is no need for pretending to get along or protecting the other persons feelings. When I enter into a Listing Agreement with a seller it is not because I am so excited that they picked me.  It is because I believe that their property will be a salable listing for me.  I feel that they, as sellers and an active participant during the listing period, will listen to my expert advice when it comes to selling their home.  They will heed my advice when it comes to pricing their property appropriately, they will complete my pre-listing checklist before listing their home, and they will be serious about recommendat... 10/09/2010

It's been beautiful Fall weather in Wake Forest NC over the last week and the calendar of events and things to do continues to be plentiful!  With so many activities to choose from it will be hard to decide which one to "pencil i" on your calendar!  Regardless of which you choose to do just don't forget to stop and take in the beauty of the colorful leaves, the crisp smell in the air and the natural scenery that abounds in Wake Forest NC.  We certainly do live in one of the most beautiful parts of the country! Building Strong Nonprofits: Beyond the Grant—Fundraising for Success Monday, Oct 11; 3:30 pm – 5 pm Wake Forest Chamber of Commerce, 350 S. White St. The Wake Forest Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with the INS Group, presents a workshop series open to members and non-members.... 10/09/2010

Do you know what a PopTart is?  Besides the yummy, sugar-filled breakfast treat it is also the nickname given to Real Estate agents that "pop up" and run out the door at the drop of a hat when a buyer or seller calls.  If that is what you are seeking in a Real Estate agent then I am not be the one for you. I love it when I receive emails and phone calls from people that are interested in moving to the area or need help in selling their current home - That's a given.  I take my job seriously and this is not something that I do "on the side".  It is important to me that I work with serious buyers and sellers.  I respect my buyers and sellers time and expect nothing less in return.  Each day is filled with WORK from 6am until 7pm at night.  Here are some differences between a PopTart agent... 10/08/2010

Just Because It's A Buyers Market Doesn't Mean You Can Wait! A Buyer's Market doesn't just mean there are a ton of houses for sale at great prices.  It also means that there are other buyers out there that are taking advantage of this historic time! If you are SERIOUS about buying a home right now then get your ducks in a row and get off that fence!  I have witnessed on several occasions now a buyer that finds the right property at the right price - woo hoo!  It's magic!  Well, not quite.  The buyer will hesitate to put an offer on the property because they want to take their time and make sure nothing else comes on the market that meets their needs or they want to see if the seller will reduce the list price more.  Seriously?  Trust me, there are other buyers out there.  Just because a... 10/08/2010

Does Size Really Matter? One of the most important factors, it seems, for home buyers is the square footage of a home.  I have had buyers say they want a 2200 square foot house and they won't even consider previewing a home that has only 2100 square feet.  That's when I have to step in and advise them on the unreliability of calculating square feet.  You see, you can have 10 different people measure a home and you will come up with 11 different measurements! In the State of North Carolina Realtors® are not required by Real Estate License Law or the Real Estate Commission to report square footage of property whether it be for sale or rent.  Does that surprise you?  I can say that I have not seen one property marketed WITHOUT square footage included but just note, we are not required to d... 10/03/2010

This week in Wake Forest NC you can find a myriad of events and things to do that are sure to please EVERYone!  The calendar is simply overflowing....... The second Friday of every month always pleases with Art After Hours in historic downtown Wake Forest.  Many galleries will be open with artist receptions, wine tasting and always great music!  This week we've got Pumpkin Patches, Pancake Breakfast Fundraisers, Autumn Arts Festival, AND the 2011 South Atlantic Regional Figure Skating Championships!  HOW EXCITING! Take some time this week to get out and enjoy all there is in Wake Forest NC - you'll be glad you did!  And if you see me out and about please be sure to say hi! Public Power Week Monday, Oct 4 – Friday, Oct 8 Wake Forest Town Hall, 301 S. Brooks St. The Town of Wake Forest an... 10/03/2010

I can not tell you how many times I have been in stores or restaurants and I hear tourists asking for directions to the Wake Forest University.  When they find that although they may BE in Wake Forest the University is approximately 2.5 hours away......Talk about frustrated!  Sometimes they even get mad like it was a whole conspiracy by the town to mislead them.......Well, here is a little history lesson regarding Wake Forest and well, Wake Forest..... Way, way back in February of 1834 (told you it was way back) the very first class enrolled in what was then called the Wake Forest College.  When the Civil War started all the students but 5 were obligated to the Confederate Army.  That huge loss of student body forced the school to close in 1862. The school reopened in 1866 and thrived o... 10/01/2010

I am so surprised each week when I see new homes for sale in Wake Forest NC, both new construction and resales, as well as the price adjustments that may have occurred.  There is an enormous variety if exterior styles, interior floorplans, lot sizes, neighborhood amenities and incentives that it can be difficult to know where to start.That's where I come in!  I live, work and play in Wake Forest NC and I can tell you anything you want to know about any neighborhood here.  My son attends the local elementary school and we have friends with kids in the Middle and High Schools here.  I eat in the local restaurants, shop in the local stores, visit the local parks and drive these streets every single day.  I KNOW WAKE FOREST NC!  I have top lenders that I can refer you to to get your gamepla... 09/30/2010

I know, I know - the season just changed to Fall but NOW is the time to get your home ready for the winter so you aren't left out in the cold.  Yes, pun intended!  ;)  Winters can be brutal regardless of where you live in the country but just a few small steps can help get you through winter both safe and warm. It is a good idea to have your heating unit checked now.  Have a professional come out an perform a preventative maintenance routine on your system to be sure it is operating in top condition and is as efficient as possible. While you SHOULD be changing you air filters throughout the house in regular intervals go ahead and add it to a Fall Maintenance checklist - it doesn't hurt to double check them and start a schedule of when you change them.  A great tip is to use a Sharpie an... 09/29/2010

Wake Forest NC has an abundant supply of Parks and Greenways!  Trails wind through town, tennis courts, baseball diamonds and playground dot the landscape and even the doggies have their very own place to romp and play with their buddies!  Through this series you will find information on all the various parks in Wake Forest NC so you can always find a great way to spend a weekend afternoon with friends or family. Kiwanis Park is located in downtown Wake Forest NC right next door to the Wake Forest Library!  It is extremely convenient to make your stop at the library and then skip over to the park for a little afternoon playtime and lunch!  This small park offers a picnic shelter, a variety of play equipment and a gorgeous paved greenway trail.  Kiwanis Park is also located right down th... 09/27/2010

Wake Forest NC Neighborhood Expedition - Focus on Majestic Oaks Majestic Oaks is a gorgeous new community in Wake Forest NC located just off of Rogers Road and adjacent to Heritage.  This new community is intimate with just a handful of well-built custom homes by various well known builders from the area such as Sawyer Homes, Stellar Blu Construction, Williams Custom Building and Cambridge Classic Homes.  Located just around the corner are many conveniences such as shopping, restaurants, banks, a post office, ice cream shops and MORE!  Currently there are 12 homes for sale in Majestic Oaks and they are in various stages of construction.  Prices range from $299,900 - $375,000.  See below for some of the particulars on the homes within Majestic Oaks.  Schools currently assigned to Majesti... 09/26/2010

Give Buyers and Their Agents The Time and Space They Need It can be tempting when your home is listed to stick around while it is being shown to buyers so you be sure all the finer details are pointed out but, honestly?  It is the worst decision you can make and for many different reasons. First, your listing agent has more than likely done a fantastic job in advertising and marketing your property.  It's obvious they have or why else would you have buyers interested in seeing your home.  If you question the job that they are doing then why are you still listed with them? Secondly, the agent that is showing your home has already received all the information they need from your agent and other various sources such as tax records and public resources.  They will know what to point out to ... 09/25/2010