What a wonderful opportunity to kick back relax and enjoy some big belly laughs this weekend as Wrightsboro United Methodist Church hosts Christian Comedy Night, a fundraising event this Saturday eveningThe Special Guest is Gale Mayes well known comedienne and singer from Nashville, TN Gale, one of Nashville’s top background vocalist who has worked such artists as CeCe Winans Donnie McClurkin, Gaither Homecoming, Quincy Jones and many others.  She also travels with Gaither Homecoming Artist Lynda Randle all across the country singing and making people laugh. Her Character Ms. Puddin’ is a senior citizen “church lady” who thinks she “is” gospel music!!!!  You will be in stitches for sure beginning until the end. The Wilmington Celebration Choir and WUMC Choir will also be appearing! Admi... 02/01/2008

Zip Code 28409  Zip code 28409, known as Masonboro, is mostly residential with several communities on the Intracoastal Waterway. It’s also within 15 minutes of the Carolina & Wrightsville Beach beaches and downtown.   Month: # ofHomes Sold: Avg.List $: Avg.Sold $: Avg. % ofList $: Avg. Sold $/HSF Avg. Dayson Market: Jan 37 $357,914 $342,858 96% $153 82 Feb 23 $406,709 $381,015 94% $159 113 Mar 55 $315,612 $305,203 97% $148 94 Apr 47 $350,265 $342,107 98% $154 90 May 45 $345,529 $335,116 97% $155 83 Jun 51 $372,896 $361,614 97% $153 106 July 43 $375,338 $359,722 96% $153 84 Aug 53 $370,934 $356,263 96% $151 100 Sep 29 $325,498 $314,212 97% $142 70 Oct 23 $332,248 $316,435 95% $149 66 Nov 41 $303,320 $288,362 95% $142 114 Dec 26 $393,694 $368,414 94% $154 102   As Wilmington/Hampstead  No... 02/01/2008

Zip Code 28412 Zip code 28412, known as Monkey Junction, is just north of Carolina Beach, close to the New Hanover Regional Medical Center, Cameron Art Museum and the Cape Fear River. Its name comes from a large monkey mascot used by a gas station there.   Month: # HomesSold: Avg.List $: Avg.Sold $: Avg. % ofList $: Avg. Sold $/HSF Avg. Dayson Market: Jan 47 $250,814 $244,083 97% $138 75 Feb 33 $265,086 $259,889 98% $140 81 Mar 79 $307,713 $299,675 97% $154 87 Apr 34 $273,193 $268,126 98% $143 108 May 48 $280,256 $268,826 96% $142 53 Jun 43 $288,742 $281,205 97% $142 70 July 43 $292,328 $286,336 98% $138 90 Aug 48 $253,469 $247,916 98% $138 78 Sep 31 $290,943 $286,167 98% $146 89 Oct 26 $259,138 $249,128 96% $137 103 Nov 38 $273,311 $268,218 98% $136 119 Dec 29 $336,028 $324,000 96% $16... 01/31/2008

As Wilmington North Carolina REALTORS specializing in Relocation we strive to provide a wide range of information to folks from out of the area considering relocating to Wilmington. One thing folks find very helpful is  to get a glimpse of the different neighborhoods of Wilmington by Zip code location.  Each Zip has a certain ambiance with particular amenities, attractions, home styles and home pricing. Year End Report reflects Single Family Home Prices Only For more information on the Wilmington NC Real Estate Market or a free Relocation Package Call us or visit www.CoastHomeNorthCarolina.com Zip Code 28411  Zip code 28411, known as Ogden, includes popular communities such as Bayshore Estates, Marsh Oaks, and Emerald Forest, Porters Neck Plantation. This area is convenient to Wrightsvi... 01/26/2008

As Wilmington North Carolina REALTORS specializing in Relocation we strive to provide a wide range of information to folks from out of the area considering relocating to Wilmington. One thing folks find very helpful is  to get a glimpse of the different neighborhoods of Wilmington by Zip code location.  Each Zip has a certain ambiance with particular amenities, attractions, home styles and home pricing.  Year End Report reflects Single Family Home Prices Only   For more information on the Wilmington NC Real Estate Market or a free Relocation Package Call us or visit www.CoastHomeNorthCarolina.com   Zip Code 28405  Zip code 28405 is home to Landfall Country Club and Mayfaire Town Center.Mayfaire is a unique development in Wilmington that includes upscale condos and village homes as well ... 01/26/2008

  2007 Real Estate Market Reports Zip Code 28403   Zip code 28403, known as the Midtown area of Wilmington is centrally located and home to UNCW as well as the Independence Mall. The popular neighborhood of Forest Hills, which boasts unique Tudor and colonial style homes, is also located here.   As Wilmington North Carolina REALTORS specializing in Relocation we strive to provide a wide range of information to folks from out of the area considering relocating to Wilmington. One thing folks find very helpful is to get a glimpse of the different neighborhoods of Wilmington by Zip code location.  Each Zip has a certain ambiance with particular amenities, attractions, home styles and home pricing.  Year End Report reflects Single Family Home Prices Only   For more information on the Wilming... 01/26/2008

As Wilmington North Carolina REALTORS specializing in Relocation we strive to provide a wide range of information to folks from out of the area considering relocating to Wilmington. One thing folks find very helpful is  to get a glimpse of the different neighborhoods of Wilmington by Zip code location.  Each Zip has a certain ambiance with particular amenities, attractions, home styles and home pricing. This Year End Report reflects Single Family Home Prices Only   For more information on the Wilmington NC Real Estate Market or a free Relocation Package Call us or visit www.CoastHomeNorthCarolina.com   Zip Code 28401 Zip code 28401 consists of Historic Downtown Wilmington, The Riverwalk and surrounding areas. Attractions such as Art galleries, Museums, Historic Churches, Restaurants and... 01/26/2008

Blue Point is a sub-division of 100+ patio homes, and 50+ custom built homes. The neighborhood features a large pool, clubhouse, and tennis courts for the residents. This neighborhood is home to many retirees, young families, empty-nester's, and folks wanting a piece of the great life this community affords it's residents.The patio homes currently range in price from about 300k to almost 400k depending on the style and floor plan. They range in size from 1800 square feet to over 2700 square feet, all are brick exterior and all have two car garages. The patio homes are in a HOA (home owners association) and pay a monthly fee of $80.00 which includes lawn care, some mulch at spring time, and use of all facilities. The homes are perfect for retirees!The custom homes are on Blue Point Drive... 01/24/2008

In an article by David Goldman on CNN.com, a report has come out stating that "the median price for a home dropped 1.3 percent to $219,000 in 2007, while total home sales plunged by 13 percent for the year".  This article appears just days after Merrill Lynch report that predicted that home sale prices would drop by 15% in 2008.  Although the National Association of Realtor's chief economist Lawrence Yun also estimates that home prices will decline this year, he does not think it will be so steep.  He calls the Merrill Lynch figures "way too pessimistic" and predicts that the current quarter will only see a 5.3% decline.HOWEVER.... Although this all sounds pretty gloomy, the Wilmington real estate market is not doing that badly at all!  We are a thriving coastal community and the market... 01/24/2008

The Week in Review...your Wilmington ConnectionJanuary 19, 2008 A late Week in Review I know, but all linked to the stirring of the real estate market. Things are picking up and there has been a great interest in Wilmington lately, with CNN naming Wilmington as one of the top 10 cities to buy. WCFHBA makes housing prediction Jeff Stokley, 2008 President of the Wilmington-Cape Fear Home Builders Association, projects a turnaround for housing to begin in late 2008 based on three broad factors: aggressive action by the Federal Reserve to cut interest rates; Congress acting on a series of bills aimed at shoring up the economy and helping home owners to stay in their homes; and no further unanticipated shocks to the economy. The actions of the Federal Reserve should be the first step in reve... 01/20/2008

The Week in Review....your Wilmington ConnectionJanuary 12, 2008To make a long story short the activity in the real estate market has picked up quite a bit. The stats on my website have proven it, with the mortgage rates as low as they are we will probably have the 5th best year for sales. As you know Wilmington is a highly desirable location, with relocation, retirement, and families just looking for a better quality of life.Have a look at the wilmington real estate market to see what has beenhappening this week. Town Seeks Revitalization Shallotte | When consultant Allison Platt first visited Shallotte, she didn't think the town had a character of its own."It looked like you could be anywhere in the country," Platt said during a visit to the town Friday.The shopping strips are located... 01/20/2008

The Week in Review...your Wilmington ConnectionJanuary 5. 2007 A Cold Week in Wilmington, but of course not nearly as cold as the northern part of the country, but for us locals it is tough one to bite. There has been alot of activity this past weekend with home viewings. Buyers confidence is returning enough to go out and look at homes, the mortgag rates are still at a record low. Are you interested in the Wilmington area? Here is some local info you might want to look at. Existing-Home Sales Rise in November, Market Likely StabilizingExisting-home sales rose slightly in November, indicating a stabilization in housing in the wake of mortgage disruptions earlier this year, according to the National Association of Realtors®. Total existing-home sales - including single-family, townhomes,... 01/20/2008

 As professionals in the field of Real Estate, we know and often say that "All Real Estate is Local." The national media doom and gloom of course tends to effect everyone. The psychological aspects of an economy in trouble and needing recsucitation and intervention can not help but take a toll on everyone. However, the economic growth reports and projection for our Wilmington NC local economy have been promising and bright.  NC is the top state nationally for relocation. In addition more jobs are being created in Wilmington NC as the local economy grows. See my recent article:Wilmington NC Jobs: Good News for Our Local Economy!!  We have one of the loveliest locations and attractive lifestyles  anywhere in the country.  Our area is the destination of choice for buyers relocating from co... 01/19/2008

If you love good ole Southern cookin' with all the fixins' like Grandma made, you will surely love the pickins at Casey's Buffet Barbecue & Home Cookin' on Oleander Drive Wilmington NC. Only open 3 years, Casey's has developed quite a following and has been voted the "Best Buffet" and "Best Soul Food" in 2 categories by Encore Magazine.The casual Buffet Style Restaurant is decorated with a "Down Home Country" feeling that will make you feel cozy and comfy. Adding to the down home charm and home again feeling is Casey's  owner, and Hostess extraodinaire, Gena Casey, who will most likely greet you when you enter, unless she is strolling about getting caught up with the regulars, or getting to know the newcomers. Gena's Husband Larry will be manning the kitchen, and keeping watch on the bu... 01/19/2008

In the midst of January, Wilmingtonians are already anticipating the arrival of the 61st Annual Azalea Festival in Wilmington, NC.  The pre-festival party kicks off Friday, January 18th, at 7 pm at Wilson's Restaurant.  Tickets are required.  Entertainment provided by Sleeping Booty, Holiday Band, and Daniel Parish.The 61st Annual North Carolina Azalea Festival will be held April 9-13, 2008 in the greater Wilmington area.  The Festival is a celebration of Wilmington's artwork, history, gardens, and culture during five days of entertainment including a parade, street fair, circus, concerts, pageantry, Azalea Belles, and all that is Southern.    Since its beginning in 1948, the Festival has blossomed into an extended weekend celebration that attracts more than 300,000 people into the City... 01/17/2008

 Yesterday I had a call from a visitor from Queens New York, (Richard and Tina) to show them one of our listings (www.9007SedgleyDrive.com) in the golf course community "The Cape"   They were vacationing here in Wilmington, North Carolina, or as they put it "wintering" till the end of March.  That is not such a big deal, as Wilmington has become an attractive place for retirees, vacationers,  and beach goers to "winter"  In fact Wilmington has quite a few ex New Yorkers, New Jerseyians (?) and other assorted "Yankees" calling Wilmington home.  It also has a huge population from other cultures!  Let me explain..... Richard and Tina loved the house, and needed some time to think it over, and decided to talk over dinner later that evening.  As the conversation progressed, and as usual, the... 01/17/2008

US News and World Report ranked UNC-Wilmington 6th in their 2008 annual college rankings for public master's universities in the South.  Kiplingers 2008 report ranked the school in the Top 4 for Best Value in NC.  Students   receive a great education at UNCW and enjoy the location just four miles from the Cape Fear River, near the Historic District, and five miles west of Wrightsville Beach and the Atlantic Ocean.  The warm water and ocean breezes make Wilmington a nice place to be in any season.  For informaton on single family homes, condos, or townhomes in the university area, visit www.thekeytowilmington.com    01/16/2008

This week, United Van Lines reported a recent study revealed that in 200,000 interstate moves, North Carolina had the largest number of newcomers, and the fewest number of residents leaving North Carolina.  Wilmington, NC continues to be a popular destination city for those looking to enjoy the coastal lifestyle, historic charm, and vibrant business community.  For more information on the Wilmington, NC, area, visit http://www.thekeytowilmington.com/.Diane Parker, Broker/Realtor/e-PROColdwell Banker Sea Coast Realty910-617-5244 or 910-202-3767DianeParker@SeaCoastRealty.comhttp://www.thekeytowlmington.com/  01/12/2008

  Wilmington NC is a great place to live not only for our wonderful climate, area attractions, the Arts, and our beautiful beaches, but also for the spirit of giving and reaching out to others. Our local community spirit is strong in the Cape Fear NC region. There is a spirit of giving here as in no other place I have seen.     For those who feel called to serve the community in some capacity, there is surely a volunteer position available to fit your talents and interests. Perhaps you are new to the area, recently retired or recently lost a loved one or have family members that have moved away, well there’s no better way to meet new people or forget your troubles than by bringing joy to another by voulunteering!   There are volunteer activities available in Wilmington NC to meet every ... 01/10/2008

Every year, the Wilmington Cape Fear Coast Visitors Bureau always puts out a brief calendar of what to look forward to in the coming year.  It just amazes me how a small town of less than 100,000 people could have so much to do.  It goes to show you how involved this community likes to be and desires activities to keep them stimulated.Here are some of the events and attractions to go out and see this year.  I am especially excited for the Butterfly exhibit at Airlie Gardens. Please feel free to call or email me if you would like more detailed information on the events, attractions, homes for sale in Wilmington NC and anything else about Wilmington NC that you may like.  I can be reached at desiree@desireewhalen.com, http://www.desireewhalen.com/ or #910 620-7594.Have a safe and wonderfu... 01/06/2008