Buy Local And Support Your Local Economy YAY!  I received my weekly box from The Produce Box!  I know I blogged about this before BUT this week's delivery deserves another mention.  Along with my fresh produce I receive a weekly newsletter in my produce box.  The newsletter is always full of interesting tid-bits about the particular produce that is in my box, some great recipes and always a little commentary.  There was an article in this week's newsletter that I just had to share.  But before I share.......take a peek at my box THIS week!  I received Cherry Tomatoes, a BIG Tomato, eggplant, 6 ears of corn, Bell Peppers, and fresh Peaches! This article was written by an intern with The Produce Box and I thought it was great! "It's Up To Us!Most of us would like to blame the food compani... 06/17/2010

Looking For Open Houses in Wake Forest NC?  Here Is A Great Tool For You! Every week I post the Wake Forest NC Open Houses.  There was a tremendous response last week to my Open House Post so I know that many of you had a great time out and about looking at homes!  So far it looks like the upcoming weekend will be just as busy!  If you don't want to wait for my upcoming Wake Forest NC Open Houses post you can certainly use my super-easy Open House Search Tool available at my website, Wake Forest NC House Chick!  You can search by city, date, price range, bedrooms, bath and square footage It's way cool and easy to use! If you are currently searching for Homes for Sale in Wake Forest NC and do not have a Buyer's Agent I would be happy to speak with you regarding the Wake Forest NC Real Es... 06/16/2010

What Are My Closing Costs When I Sell My Home? Both buyers and sellers of Real Estate have closing costs associated with the transfer of real estate.  Each pays something different and as a top Wake Forest NC Real Estate Agent it is my job to be sure that PRIOR to closing I provide either of them (depends on who I represent) their estimated closing costs. In the case of a home seller that comes in the form of Seller Net Proceeds.  While I can not give exact figures for what closing costs are my years of experience do allow me to be very accurate is estimates.  So, if you are thinking of selling your home in Wake Forest NC here are the costs that will be associated with the sale. Document Preparation:  Cost will vary from attorney to attorney but an good estimate is $200.00.  This is the... 06/13/2010

There are some fantastic opportunities this week to explore all that Wake Forest NC has to offer regardless of your age and interests!  Blue Jay Point Park is hosting a Summer Mini-Camp which I am sure will be a HUGE hit with the kids!  There will be a Silent Auction at the Carolina House with proceeds benefiting Alzheimer's NC, Inc, a Democratic Candidate Meet and Greet, and a super special Saturday at the Wake Forest NC Farmer's Market with a release of butterflies to celebrate the Turning of the Season. Get out and Discover Wake Forest NC - it really doesn't get any better than this! Monday, Wednesday, Friday, June 14, 16, 18; 9 am – 12 pm or 1 pm – 4 pm Blue Jay Point County Park, 3200 Pleasant Union Church Rd., Raleigh Learn to identify birds by sight and sound, and find out how to... 06/12/2010

$159,000.00 - 3 Bedrooms PLUS Bonus Room - North Raleigh Location! Exceptional Floorplan!Location: BrookstoneFantastic, open Floorplan in very convenient North Raleigh location! This home has 3 bedrooms PLUS a bonus room - only one currently on the market in Brookstone! There are many distinct details that set this home apart from all the others!First floor has awesome living room with a masonry fireplace and a pass-thru window to the kitchen which allows EVERYONE to be a part of the conversation! Great double window allows plenty of sunshine. Arched entrace in to generous dining room provides the perfect touch of elevated style! Dining room has great views of the back yard and could easily accomodate up to 8 guests. The very functional kitchen has great counterspace, ample cabinets AND... 06/12/2010

I was out this week previewing homes for some clients I have coming in next week.  I am a firm believer in previewing homes BEFORE you actually take your clients through.  Why don't more agents do that I wonder? 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 place.  I am sure that a... 06/11/2010

Open House Tour in Wake Forest NC - June 12 - 13, 2010 There are some incredible homes for sale in Wake Forest NC and whether you have just started your search or want to explore a neighborhood that you have had your eye on just a little better then Open Houses are a great way to start! This weekend provides a great opportunity to explore some of the homes for sale in Wake Forest NC in all different price points, styles and neighborhoods!  Check out this weekends lineup! Saturday, June 12, 2010 $105,000 Castlegate 27616 - 11:00AM 1:00PM  $175,000 Slater 27587 - 2:00PM 5:00PM $199,900 Blue Blossom 27616 - 3:00PM 5:00PM $207,900 Landover 27616 - 1:00PM 4:00PM $219,900 Heritage Spring 27587 - 2:00PM 5:00PM $229,900 Heritage Spring 27587 - 2:00PM 5:00PM $244,900 Lasila 27616 - 11:00AM 3:00P... 06/11/2010

Art After Hours in Historic Downtown Wake Forest, NC - June 11, 2010 Historic Downtown Wake Forest NC is THE place to be the second Friday of every month!  Art After Hours is a fantastic event that has quite a bit of something for everyone!  This Friday, June 11, there are several Artist Receptions and Art Showings dotted throughout historic downtown Wake Forest, NC.  Sunflower Studio & Gallery - Live music provided by Possum Road Bluegrass Band!  Local artists will works displayed from 5:00pm - 9:00pm. Tuxedo Junction - "Song and Dance" artist exhibition by Robert Daniels starting at 5:00pm Most of the shops in historic downtown Wake Forest NC will be open late giving you an awesome opportunity to shop, dine and explore!  Hope to see you there! 06/10/2010

Showings Are "Hot" in The Summer - Is Your Home the "Cool" One?   If your home is currently on the market then this is a post for YOU!  While I am SURE your Realtor® prepared you for what to do when you have scheduled showings like lights on, soft music, etc there are some special touches that you can do for a showing in the summer that just might make your home stand out! Summer conjures up memories of cookouts, swimming pools, lemonade and fireflies......so, why not get the buyer that will be previewing your home in the right frame of mind? Be sure you have some "punched up" flower power for when the buyer first shows up!  Whether it be some fresh new plantings around the mailbox or some bright potted flowers on the porch you just can't ignore the visual of flowers! Is your doormat fr... 06/08/2010

$499,900.00 - Private Estate Home in Wakefield Estates!Location: Wakefield EstatesWakefield Estates - Beautiful stone front estate home on private and professionally landscaped 1.88 acres! Incredible views from every room in this home provide peace and tranquility.This fabulous floorplan offers tremendous living space with a formal dining room, formal living room, home office/study and a family room with impressive stone fireplace overlooking the lush back yard. Large kitchen has great counterspace and storage with a breakfast area that has beautiful views. Relaxing sunroom offers casual space to unwind after long days!Generous master bedroom has sitting area and luxurious master bath with whirlpool tub and quality custom design and features. Secondary bedrooms are large and have ample ... 06/08/2010

You Need A Team and A Plan When Buying A Home Buying a home can be a trying time for anyone whether you are a first time buyer or a seasoned homeowner.  However, with a Team and a Plan you can successfully and with the least amount of stress find that perfect home in no time!  There are just a few simple pre-home search tips and tricks and I am happy to share them with you! You Need A Team!  Yes, a TEAM to help you purchase your new home.  Who does your Team consist of? YOUR AGENT!  And by YOUR agent I mean a Buyer's Agent.  A Buyer's Agent will be an incredible asset and advocate and most times can offer "inside scoop" information on many of the areas local developments, etc Your Lender - You need to choose a financial lender that YOU are comfortable with.  Each bank is different so it... 06/08/2010

Foreclosure Homes For Sale in Wake Forest NC There is such a wide variety of homes for sale in Wake Forest NC in all price points, styles and sizes!  One group of homes that are often overlooked are Foreclosure Homes.  While there may be a stigma attached to the word "Foreclosure" these homes offer tremendous value for the money.  I have personally visited most of the homes for sale in Wake Forest NC that are Foreclosures and I can say that they are quite a pleasant surprise.  They are not the "beat up", dingy, broken down homes that one may think of.  Instead, most are freshly painted inside, many have new carpet/vinyl, they are clean and in fantastic condition.  What is most important to remember with a Foreclosure in Wake Forest NC is that they are sold AS IS.  While you may be allow... 06/08/2010

There is an incredible week of things to do in Wake Forest NC this week!  Graduation ceremonies are scheduled throughout the week for not only Wake Forest NC High Schools but all the Wake County NC High Schools.  Its a very exciting time and if you missed the schedule you can certainly check out Wake Forest NC 2010 High School Graduation Schedule for the dates, times and locations of graduation ceremonies. This week is also the wildly popular Art After Hours weekend in historic downtown Wake Forest NC.  There are several Artist Exhibits and Receptions scheduled around town that provide the perfect opportunity to preview some local artists!  There is also the Second Annual Jazzy June Jive Event at the Cotton Company, a Pancake and Sausage Breakfast, Women on Board Workshop and so much mo... 06/06/2010

Wake Forest NC 2010 High School Graduation ScheduleOh my, it is so hard to believe that Graduation is literally upon us!  I personally know many outstanding seniors that will be Graduating this week and I am so very proud of each and everyone of them!  I wish all 2010 Graduates life long success and prosperity!  You all have worked so very hard!Wake Forest NC currently has two High Schools - Wake Forest Rolesville High School and Heritage High School.  Here are there dates and times for graduation ceremonies: Wake Forest Rolesville High School - Thursday, June 10 at 4:00pm Heritage High School - Thursday, June 10 at 4:00pm Graduation will be held at the Raleigh Convention Center.  You can easily access Parking and Directions for the Raleigh Convention Center through this link.For all ot... 06/05/2010

"Don't Judge A Book By It's Cover" Does NOT Apply to Homes For Sale In Wake Forest NC! Whether you are thinking of selling your home in Wake Forest NC or your home is currently "on the market", Curb Appeal is one of the most important areas to address!  Think about it - the first impression of your house from a buyer's perspective is when they drive up the street and spot your house. What does your home "say"?  Is it warm and inviting?  Does it sparkle and "pop" with pizzazz?  Here are some great tips to help you see your home through the eyes of a buyer and make some improvements that could just make or break a sale!    1. Get in your car and drive up to your house from ALL angles.  What was it most that drew you to your house when you bought it?  Does your home look fresh, clean and f... 06/04/2010

There are always some great things to do in Wake Forest NC!  Here is a reminder of some of the exciting events and activities you can take part in THIS Weekend in Wake Forest NC! Friday, June 4 Fish Fry      Friday, June 4; 11 am - 7 pmWake Forest United Methodist Church, 905 S. Main St.The Wake Forest United Methodist Men offer delicious plates that include flounder, slaw, boiled potatoes, and hush puppies ($8). Dine in, take-out, drive-through, or delivery is available. For delivery of five or more plates, call (919) 556-2239. This event raises money for the men to build handicap access ramps at little or no cost to those in need. Additionally, the United Methodist Men support over 20 local charitable organizations serving our community.  www.wakeforestumc.org The New Wake Forest Danc... 06/04/2010

Wake Forest NC Parks and Recreation FALL Baseball Registration Underway! You can now register for both adult and youth baseball for the FALL season until June 25, 2010.  You can either pick up a registration for at Town Hall or visit the Wake Forest NC Parks and Recreation website to download YOUTH Registration Form . For YOUTH Baseball the cost is $40.00 per player for residents and $80.00 per player for non residents.  Games are primarily played on Friday evening and Saturdays in various Wake Forest NC parks.  Practices begin in mid-August and games begin in September. If you need additional information for Baseball Registration you can contact the Athletic Coordinator, Edward Austin at 919-554-6183 or email him at easutin@wakeforestnc.gov 06/02/2010

Wake Forest NC Parks and Recreation Offers Swim Lessons - Register NOW! Staring June 1, 2010, Wake Forest NC Parks and Recreation will opening registration for Swim Lessons.  These group lessons (minimum of 4, maximum of 8) are taught by certified Town Staff and offerred for several age groups.  There are classes for preschoolers (ages 3-5), Beginners (ages 6 and above) and Advanced Beginners.  Classes will be held Monday - Thursday for two weeks for 45 minutes per day.  (Various start times depending on the session you register for)  Several sessions are available this summer. Session I - June 21 - July 1 Session II - July 12 - July 22 Session III - July 26 - August 5 Session IV - August 9 - August 19 For a complete schedule of classes please visit the Wake Forest NC Parks and Recreati... 06/01/2010

Did you know that, as of 2009, nine out of every ten home buyers used the internet to find their new home?  In 2010, the percentage is predicted to increase even further.  The number of buyers who use the internet to find their next home is increasing daily.  The traffic to on-line real estate marketplaces is skyrocketing.  The power of the web is growing.  And I have been able to successfully establish myself on-line so that I am able to tap into the steady stream of real estate shoppers. Some of the most important marketing and advertising that can be done for your home is on-line.  Fortunately, I have been able to stay ahead of this trend and have been continuously working to increase my on-line presence so that I am pushing listings to more on-line places very quickly and getting th... 05/31/2010

In observance of Memorial Day there will be a few Town Services in Wake Forest NC suspended tomorrow.  Here is a short list of what will be closed and suspended: Wake Forest NC Town Hall Wake Forest NC Administrative Offices Wake Forest NC Bus Service - Both Wake Forest-Raleigh Express and the Wake Forest Loop Garbage, Yard and Recycling Services (should your normally scheduled day fall on Monday, May 31) For more information you can visit the Town of Wake Forest NC Website and view their Holiday Schedule. Enjoy Memorial Day! 05/30/2010