Showing Your Home During the Holidays

As I am in the midst of selling and moving a home, there is nothing like having to show your home during the holidays.  We can all think of better things to do.  I am fortunate because we are currently under contract.  However, I know what you are dealing with, so here are a few [...]
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Exploring Raleigh’s Districts – Part 2

Raleigh is most decidedly a city of neighborhoods and districts. If you’re planning to visit, here are a few locales not to be missed. The Glenwood South District Glenwood South comprises the last several blocks of Glenwood Avenue, just west of downtown. It once was a warehouse and industrial neighborhood but now is transforming into [...]
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Exploring Raleigh’s Districts – Part 1

There’s never a shortage of things to do in the Raleigh area. One thing many people enjoy is exploring the city’s many districts. Downtown Raleigh has a number of interdependent districts. Here’s some information about a few of them. The Fayetteville Street District This district is considered by many to be the central business district [...]
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Condos beat town houses and vice versa

Dear Real Estate Adviser,I am considering buying a condo on the beach, but I'm now wondering if a town house wouldn't be better due to the fact that homeowner association fees are lower, which would allow ...
Read More... [Source: Yahoo! Finance - Personal Finance | Real Estate]

The 11 US Cities That Are Having the Best Recoveries

Looking at employment, unemployment, production, and home prices, here are the strongest economic recoveries from trough to the third quarter of 2012.

Read More... [Source: Yahoo! Finance - Personal Finance | Real Estate]

Happy Holidays!!!

I wish you a healthy and joyous holiday season.  Whether you celebrate Kwanzaa, Hanukkah or Christmas, my holiday wish is that you are able to celebrate with your family and friends.  If you happen to be moving, please take time for yourself and enjoy the holidays.   Thank you all for your continued support, comments [...]
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Slight Uptick in Mortgage Rates Spooks Housing

Even with mortgage rates hovering near record lows, it doesn't take much to send borrowers running for the hills. A slight move up on the 30-year fixed caused mortgage refinance applications to plummet, ...
Read More... [Source: Yahoo! Finance - Personal Finance | Real Estate]

DETACHED, TRADITIONAL - CHAPEL HILL, NC

Kitchen and Bathrooms just updated. All new appliances! Freshly painted.Newly tiled basement floor.Golf course home in the Chapel Hill school district! Built by Scotty McLean on two lots on CHCC golf course.Nanny/guest apt over garage.Pine flrs,11 ft ceilings,4 fireplaces,palladian windows,shutters,finished basement,1st flr master suite! Walking distance to clubhouse.

Read More... [Source: Real Estate for Sale in Chapel Hill, North Carolina]

McMansions Return: Big Houses Come Back

After five years of downsizing, homeowners may be "upsizing" once again. A growing family and a need for more living space are the prime reasons across the generations, according to a new survey ...
Read More... [Source: Yahoo! Finance - Personal Finance | Real Estate]

Moving Tip: Acclimating to Cold Weather

If you are a ‘hot-house’ flower like myself and grew up in a warm weather environment, moving to a place with cold weather will be a huge adjustment.  The key to making this transition is educating yourself.  You will be COLD! It will feel uncomfortable at first but dressing in layers is so important.  Equipping [...]
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DETACHED, FRENCH PROVINCE, TRANSITIONAL - CHAPEL HILL, NC

PROPOSED CONSTRUCTION, Take advantage of flexible, existing custom plans. Open and bright on a private lot. 3 car garage, screen porch, large cook's dream kitchen, huge pantry, main floor master and main floor guest plus study ALL on main floor! Flexible bonus area upstairs and plans allow for addition of lower level walk out finish. Social membership with acceptable offer.

Read More... [Source: Real Estate for Sale in Chapel Hill, North Carolina]

VACANT LOT - CHAPEL HILL, NC

Only 1.5 miles from UNC Campus. Feels Secluded but convevient to shopping. Bring your own builder or use one of ours.

Read More... [Source: Real Estate for Sale in Chapel Hill, North Carolina]

DETACHED, TRANSITIONAL - CHAPEL HILL, NC

Breathtaking distance views to Jordan Lake from this light filled custom home. "Like-ranch-living" open floor plan with formal and family areas. Stunning master suite plus a guest suite on main. Handicap-accessible rooms. Family room with fireplace and wet bar, and two guest suites on lower level walk-out. Sun porch and deck on main. It's like living at a mountain resort!

Read More... [Source: Real Estate for Sale in Chapel Hill, North Carolina]

Real Estate Market Outlook for 2013-2014

It’s never too early to start paying attention to trends, especially if you’re planning to buy or build a home. Since this is likely the most money you’ll ever invest, doesn’t it make sense to do so as wisely as possible? Here’s a brief run-down on what to expect in the overall real estate market [...]
Read More... [Source: Cary/Raleigh Real Estate Blog]

Housing Market in the Triangle: Still Strong and Vibrant

  In a recent report in May 2012, the Triangle Multiple Listing Service (TMLS) stated that there’s plenty to be glad about in the region’s overall housing market. Analysts expect this trend to continue, at least through the summer of 2012. This is in spite of a down tick in active listings, which has been [...]
Read More... [Source: Cary/Raleigh Real Estate Blog]

Spring in the Triangle: Bass Lake Park

Now that the weather is warming and the first day of spring is very close, many people look forward to participating in more outdoor activities. One of the best places to visit in the area is the beautiful Bass Lake Park and Retreat Center. About Bass Lake Park The site is open year-round from 8 [...]
Read More... [Source: Cary/Raleigh Real Estate Blog]

Holiday News Flash! Raleigh Web Agency Hosts Tacky Christmas Sweater Contest! Looking for something new and fun to do this holiday season? Well, if you have a sense of humor, you’re sure to appreciate the “Tacky Christmas Sweater” contest sponsored by TheeDesign Studio, a Raleigh web design and Internet marketing agency, The sweater with the most [...]
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25 WILDER RIDGE OPEN & AIRY TRANSITIONAL ON 1 ACRE LOT IN N. CHATHAM COUNTY!

Awesome 2-story Entry Foyer ~ Open DR ~ Deco Column & Crown Mouldings ~ 2-story FR w/Gas Log FP ~ Spacious Kitchen has Baywindow Nook ~ Hdwds in Foyer, Stairs, DR, Kitchen, Nook & FR ~ 1st flr Utility Rm ~ 1st Flr Master Suite has Deck Access, private BA w/Garden Tub, Sep Shower, Dble Vanities & WIC ~ 2 sizeable secondary BR's w/ WIC's ~ Catwalk overlooking FR ~ Bonus Rm has Built-in w/Sink for entertaining ~ Huge Office ~ Covered Front Porch ~ Covered Back Deck overlooks fenced-in bkyd ~ Real Fruit Trees out back.. Enjoy Peaches in the summer & Pears in the fall ~ Plenty of room to grow! Call ASHLEY for more details.. 919-730-9412

Read More... [Source: Real Estate for Sale in Chapel Hill, North Carolina]

Top Reasons to Move to the Raleigh NC Area – Part 1

The Raleigh-Durham NC region is a vibrant and growing place to live. For those who might be considering a move, here are just a few of the reasons to relocate here. A Superior Location Raleigh has a central location that makes it easy to access most other places in the area, so commutes and shopping [...]
Read More... [Source: Cary/Raleigh Real Estate Blog]

VACANT LOT - CHAPEL HILL, NC

Lovely intimate neighborhood only ~ 2 miles from UNC hospital. Feel free to walk lots without appt. Builder/Seller very happy to meet on site to discuss builder features of lot. This lot has potential for basement. Closed homes sales in this neighborhood range from $704K - $1.4

Read More... [Source: Real Estate for Sale in Chapel Hill, North Carolina]

DETACHED, CONTEMPORARY - CHAPEL HILL, NC

Waterfront delight 10 minutes to town. Huge wrap around decks overlook the pond; ready to add your own dock. 2 mstr suites, one up, one down, perfect for children's wing or in-law suite.Open floor plan features cathedral ceilings, hardwood floors,2 wood burning fireplaces & sliding glass doors throughout. The circular drive welcomes to your private paradise.

Read More... [Source: Real Estate for Sale in Chapel Hill, North Carolina]

Better, Not Bigger: What the Triangle Region Offers

The real estate scene’s best kept-secret might just be the Raleigh-Durham NC Triangle region. Despite a size that’s much smaller than other metropolitan areas that have a similar profusion of cultural amenities, the Triangle thrives. Raleigh has attracted a number of celebrities who make their home there, including Olympic champion Kristi Yamaguchi, Dexter star Michael [...]
Read More... [Source: Cary/Raleigh Real Estate Blog]

DETACHED, TRADITIONAL - CHAPEL HILL, NC

Stunning wooded 1 acre estate homesite. Wonderful established location: less than 10 min to downtown Chapel Hill, easy back-road access to Southpoint & RTP. Custom build this well-thought-out plan or have a floorplan designed for you by Zinn Design Build, Chapel Hill's luxury home builder. Site is well-suited for a basement.

Read More... [Source: Real Estate for Sale in Chapel Hill, North Carolina]

VACANT LOT - CHAPEL HILL, NC

Bring your own builder or build your Dream Home with award winning Magnum Fine Home Builders. Beautiful Wooded and Meadow lots available.Land home packages starting at $350,000 for 2200sf custom designed home plans. Custom home plans will be free with purchase of lot & construction package. . Spec and Models available for viewing. Call today.

Read More... [Source: Real Estate for Sale in Chapel Hill, North Carolina]

7401 TALBRYN WAY, CHAPEL HILL PRICED AT $699,000

Talbryn is a private gated community of 10+ acre home sites. This home is located on Big Hill, one of the highest elevations in Orange County. The paved road lined with charming gas lamps leads to a winding drive and beautiful hilltop spacious home. LR with FP has a wall of windows overlooking a private back yard and wooded property. MBR with attached den or nursery and luxury bath is on the 1st floor. The chef's kitchen has a center island and breakfast room that leads to a great back deck. Daylight basement has an outside entry, bedroom and bath plus a family room with FP. Perfect for your teenager or home office. Attached 2 car garage and plenty of storage. Chapel Hill schools. Conveniently located. 6 miles to UNC campus and 9 miles to downtown Hillsborough.

Read More... [Source: Real Estate for Sale in Chapel Hill, North Carolina]

VACANT LOT - CHAPEL HILL, NC

Beautiful wooded lot in a prime North Chatham Location, with a Chapel Hill address. Christopher Homes can build you a quality custom home. There is a 2500 Sq. Ft. Minimum with Architectual review.

Read More... [Source: Real Estate for Sale in Chapel Hill, North Carolina]

One Word Describes the Triangle Region: Boomtown!

In recent years, the Triangle region has consistently placed high on a number of lists that track rapid population growth and other key factors that influence real estate markets. Data from diverse sources has shown that the US population will rise, which in turn will help housing markets to flourish. It’s expected that the country’s [...]
Read More... [Source: Cary/Raleigh Real Estate Blog]

Three Ways to Simplify Your Move

Unless you can afford to pay someone to do everything for you, moving isn’t usually easy. It often requires packing, organizing, making phone calls, purchasing supplies, hiring movers or renting a moving truck, and unpacking. It’s not easy to fit moving into your already busy schedule. Once you can sit back, relax, and enjoy your [...]
Read More... [Source: Cary/Raleigh Real Estate Blog]

VACANT LOT - CHAPEL HILL, NC

A prime North Chatham location, with a Chapel Hill Address. Christopher Homes can build you a quality custom home. There is 2500 Sq. ft Minimum with architectuarl review. The home site has already been cleared on this wooded lot.

Read More... [Source: Real Estate for Sale in Chapel Hill, North Carolina]

Pick Your Own Christmas Tree This Year! In the market for a 2012 Christmas tree? The area offers plenty of options for Christmas tree farms. So, gather up the family and head out for an experience that’s sure to become a tradition in your family. Here’s some information about just a few of the Christmas [...]
Read More... [Source: Cary/Raleigh Real Estate Blog]

The Queen of Soul to Perform in the Triangle Region

Aretha Franklin, affectionately termed the “Queen of Soul,” is slated to perform at DPAC (Durham Performing Arts Center) on February 9, 2012. Franklin, long regarded as having a major influence on American soul, rhythm and blues and gospel music, is a talented singer, songwriter and pianist. Although best known for her achievements in the soul [...]
Read More... [Source: Cary/Raleigh Real Estate Blog]

VACANT LOT - CHAPEL HILL, NC

Great New Price! Cul-de-Sac Golf lot with sweeping views of the 2nd green and fairway of Governors Club--a prestigious Jack Nicklaus signature golf course community. Lovely lot with mature trees. Beautiful, million dollar homes are located on this street. No time frame to build.

Read More... [Source: Real Estate for Sale in Chapel Hill, North Carolina]

DUPLEX,SEE REMARKS - CHAPEL HILL, NC

Excellent Opportunity. Less than 1 mile to UNC Campus. Three units on one parcel. Unit 1- 4BR/2B, detached. Unit 2- 4BR/2B, detached. Unit 3- Duplex with 2BR/1B on each side. Unit 2 (721)and Unit 3 (719 A&B) face Merritt Mill Rd. All units have ample parking. See also, 714 and 716 Edwards Street Listings.

Read More... [Source: Real Estate for Sale in Chapel Hill, North Carolina]

CONDO OTHER, CONTEMPORARY - CHAPEL HILL, NC

East 54 is a Gold LEED certified community with retail, office and residential condominiums. Residents will in enjoy a rooftop pool, fitness center , 10 ft. ceilings, floor to ceilings glass windows and spectacular views of Finely Golf Course. Come work, live and play at East 54.

Read More... [Source: Real Estate for Sale in Chapel Hill, North Carolina]

Don’t Miss a Unique Exhibition about the Mongol Warlord Genghis Khan

From November 19, 2011, to January 16, 2012, the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences in Raleigh will be the site of a remarkable exhibition of treasures from the empire of Genghis Khan. The exhibit is on loan directly from Khan’s native Mongolia, thanks to the Mongolian Ministry of Education, Culture and Science and some [...]
Read More... [Source: Cary/Raleigh Real Estate Blog]

VACANT LOT - CHAPEL HILL, NC

Build your Dream Home in this private sub-division on 20.02 acres. Land has been perked for a 5Bdrm home. Private Road Access. Excellent location, Just Minutes from Chapel Hill and Carrboro. Perfect for horses! Call LA/Owner Financing Negotiable.

Read More... [Source: Real Estate for Sale in Chapel Hill, North Carolina]

Don’t Be a Scrooge: Visit the Bitmore Village Dickens Festival!

This holiday season, be sure to experience the unique historical atmosphere of the Bitmore Village Dickens festival. Held over a 3-day period in December, the festival is a celebration of the magic of the season, complete with music and over 300 performers who bring Dickens’ world to life. The main stage of the festival offers [...]
Read More... [Source: Cary/Raleigh Real Estate Blog]

Building a Home? Consider Going Green – Part 1

If you’re interested in helping to preserve our precious natural heritage, then it’s likely you’re committed to environmentally sound practices that can help conserve and protect it. For those who are considering building a home, green principles and practices become particularly important. Green homes, also called eco-homes, are a growing trend in virtually all real [...]
Read More... [Source: Cary/Raleigh Real Estate Blog]

VACANT LOT - CHAPEL HILL, NC

Incredible price for beautiful wooded lot in private neighborhood just minutes from campus & downtown! Tucked away from road noise, this gently sloped lot is the perfect setting for your dream home. Choose your own builder. Enjoy low taxes while being in the Chapel Hill-Carrboro city school district! The shops at Southern Village are just minutes away. Lot last perked for a 5 BRs.

Read More... [Source: Real Estate for Sale in Chapel Hill, North Carolina]

TOWNHOUSE, TRADITIONAL, TRANSITIONAL - CHAPEL HILL, NC

This wonderful brick front unit opens up to the Public Green Park. The Urban design is exceptional for entertaining & family living. Kitchen boasts wood cabinetry, stainless steel appliance, granite countertops & an island. Hardwoods on 1st floor, stairs & hallway. 10 ft ceilings on 1st floor and 9 ft up. Pool, parks & trails for your enjoyment. Energy Star Certified.

Read More... [Source: Real Estate for Sale in Chapel Hill, North Carolina]

VACANT LOT - CHAPEL HILL, NC

Beautiful corner estate homesite with lots of hardwoods in private gated community. Home can be built on Governors Drive or on Swain. Great location to south gate, 15-501, shopping and downtown Chapel Hill.

Read More... [Source: Real Estate for Sale in Chapel Hill, North Carolina]

Love the Outdoors? Explore the Upper Neuse River Greenway Trail

The Upper Neuse River Greenway trail is a recent addition to the Triangle region’s network of nature trails. It officially opened in November 2011 and is a project led by the Raleigh Parks and Recreation department, whose mission it is to “to actively encourage, provide, promote and protect quality leisure, recreation and cultural opportunities, facilities [...]
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DUPLEX - CHAPEL HILL, NC

NEW PRICE!This lovely duplex sits in a quiet, peaceful setting at the end of a cul-de-sac, just yards from the bus stop. Perfect for investors or a small family to live in 1 side and rent out the other. Conv. to Durham and downtown Chapel Hill;bike/drive thru Summerfield Crossing to E'gate Shopping Ctr.Updates include solid surface counters & sinks, new paint and more.2 Paved DW's.

Read More... [Source: Real Estate for Sale in Chapel Hill, North Carolina]

DETACHED, TRANSITIONAL - CHAPEL HILL, NC

Incredible value in gated community! Beautiful all brick, light-filled custom home on a private lot. Generous sized rooms. All rooms desired for main level living including a living room, an office/den and a sun room, providing spaces for everyone. First floor master suite. High-ceiling walk-out unfinished basement. Lots of storage. Low taxes! Close to shopping, restaurants, UNC.

Read More... [Source: Real Estate for Sale in Chapel Hill, North Carolina]

DETACHED, ARTS & CRAFTS, TRANSITIONAL - CHAPEL HILL, NC

Nothing could be finer! Enjoy the resort lifestyle in the "Carolina Cottage" overlooking the golf course and just steps away from the clubhouse. Wake up, play a round of golf and then head to a UNC football or basketball game! This furnished home offers ease and convenience only minutes from downtown Chapel Hill!

Read More... [Source: Real Estate for Sale in Chapel Hill, North Carolina]

VACANT LOT - CHAPEL HILL, NC

Private, quiet, wooded 6+ acre lot in established custom home neighborhd. Individual home design/builder choices allowed. Available - construction-ready CAD drawings for 2600 SF, 4 br/3ba passive-solar home. Also have: zoning compliance permit, well/septic permit, erosion control permit. Located in Chapel Hill school district, low county taxes. Minutes to 15-501 & downtown CH.

Read More... [Source: Real Estate for Sale in Chapel Hill, North Carolina]

DUPLEX,SEE REMARKS - CHAPEL HILL, NC

Beautiful land sitting on over 16 acres! Income-producing property with two 2 unit homes fully rented along with rented green houses on property. Large picnic area and stage is great for any event! Quonset hut and more! Very unique property that you will fall in love with!

Read More... [Source: Real Estate for Sale in Chapel Hill, North Carolina]

OTHER - CHAPEL HILL, NC

Prime outparcel for commercial use. Located adjacent to County Line Plaza. Current zoning residential but county will consider commercial to adjoin County Line Plaza. Priced well below adjoining outparcels. Residence on site but not of value. Water in front of lot. Septic tank with existing residence. Good soils.
Read More... [Source: Real Estate for Sale in Chapel Hill, North Carolina]

DETACHED, SEE REMARKS - CHAPEL HILL, NC

Breathe a sigh of relief-the search ends here. This sleek yet warm residence is all about the indoor-outdoor experience. Architecturally distinct w/ a stately street presence, let the native woodland inspired front beds lead you into rooms filled w/ light. Discover 9-18' ceilings, a top-of-the-line kitchen, abundant hardwood floors, custom built-ins, 3 fps & high end finishes.

Read More... [Source: Real Estate for Sale in Chapel Hill, North Carolina]

DETACHED, TRADITIONAL - CHAPEL HILL, NC

Have it all! Stunning wooded almost 3 acre estate homesite. Wonderful established location: 10 min to downtown Chapel Hill, easy back-road access to Southpoint & RTP. Custom build this well-thought-out plan or have a floorplan designed for you by Zinn Design Build, Chapel Hill's luxury home builder. Site is well-suited for a basement.

Read More... [Source: Real Estate for Sale in Chapel Hill, North Carolina]

VACANT LOT - CHAPEL HILL, NC

ONCE IN A LIFETIME OPPORTUNITY TO OWN THE REMAINING PREMIER BUILDABLE LOT IN THE FAMED HISTORIC GIMGHOUL NEIGHBORHOOD. This opportunity will never be available again. Gently sloping lot facing BATTLE PARK. Act now and you may be the fortunate one to own one of the BEST locations in historic Chapel Hill. Lot is approved by Town of Chapel Hill. MAKE AN OFFER BEFORE IT'S GONE!

Read More... [Source: Real Estate for Sale in Chapel Hill, North Carolina]

VACANT LOT - CHAPEL HILL, NC

Now is the time to begin planning your dream home! Three 11+ acre lots in gated community. Walk or bike to Carrboro High School. Just down the hill from Weaver Street Market. Gentle slopes, rock out croppings, fantastic building sites. Choose your own builder. Wastewater irrigation system by state permit.

Read More... [Source: Real Estate for Sale in Chapel Hill, North Carolina]

VACANT LOT - CHAPEL HILL, NC

Build a custom home on this beautiful wooded lot. This is a great North Chatham location, with a Chapel Hill address. Christopher Homes can build a quality custom home for you. There is 2500 sg ft minimum with architectural review.

Read More... [Source: Real Estate for Sale in Chapel Hill, North Carolina]

DETACHED, RANCH - CHAPEL HILL, NC

One story brick home w/split floor plan. Formal LR and DR, FR with stone FP/gas logs and cathedral ceiling, built in bk cases, hardwood floors throughout living areas & master BR, Granite kit, tiled baths, covered back porch, deck, 2 car side entry gar, lovely wooded and private lot. Quiet neighborhood, close to Jordan Lake and Triangle area. Horse friendly.

Read More... [Source: Real Estate for Sale in Chapel Hill, North Carolina]

Positive News for the Triangle’s Real Estate Market

  Did you know that the Raleigh-Cary real estate market is booming? It’s been ranked #1 by the Inman News top ten list of strong real estate markets in the US, with 2012 sales up as much as 35% over the previous year. The National Association of Realtors (NAR) reports that this is a great [...]
Read More... [Source: Cary/Raleigh Real Estate Blog]

CONDO OTHER, CONTEMPORARY - CHAPEL HILL, NC

East 54 is a Gold LEED certified community with retail, office and residential condominiums. Residents will in enjoy a rooftop pool, fitness center , 10 ft. ceilings, floor to ceilings glass windows and spectacular views of Finely Golf Course. Come work, live and play at East 54.

Read More... [Source: Real Estate for Sale in Chapel Hill, North Carolina]

Top Reasons to Move to the Raleigh NC Area – Part 2

There’s something for just about anyone in the Raleigh NC region. Along with its exceptional natural beauty and central location, the Triangle area features a wide variety of activities and pastimes for every taste. Sports in General Sports fans will be glad to know that the region is home to several championship sports teams, including [...]
Read More... [Source: Cary/Raleigh Real Estate Blog]

VACANT LOT - CHAPEL HILL, NC

This breathtaking wooded homesite, nestled between the19th tee and 16th green of Jack Nicklaus' signature golf course, You will have a spectacular distance view to the southeast. Set in a quiet cul-de-sac with beautiful surrounding woods it is a short distance to the clubhouse, and minutes by car to shopping and downtown Chapel Hill. Don't miss out on building your dream home here!

Read More... [Source: Real Estate for Sale in Chapel Hill, North Carolina]

Good News for the Triangle’s Real Estate Market

A recent analysis of the Triangle’s market climate reported that the region’s new home market remains strong. Construction for about 1500 new homes began in the first quarter of 2012, which is up over 10% from the same quarter of 2011. Closings have increased as well, with about 1400 new homes closed in the first [...]
Read More... [Source: Cary/Raleigh Real Estate Blog]

VACANT LOT - CHAPEL HILL, NC

Visualize the spectacular views of the 24th fairway of Jack Nicklaus signature golf course. Imagine your 3 story walk out basement home featuring a wall of windows maximizing your drop dead gorgeous view without jeopardizing your privacy.

Read More... [Source: Real Estate for Sale in Chapel Hill, North Carolina]

$1.4 Million Mansion in Houston is an Architectural Enigma (House of the Day)

This mansion in Houston is one of the weirdest things we've ever seen: It's like someone took pieces of a classic, stately chateau and an über-modern spread and smashed them together. The listing calls the home "masterfully re-imagined," but as our friends at Curbed put it, that would be "totally accurate if said master is keen on imagining the weirdest ways to mash up architecture."

The 5,116-square-foot home's $1.425 million price tag might seem like wishful thinking for such an odd-looking place -- until you've seen the interiors. A dreamy recessed ceiling in the master bedroom, a dining room with a disco-inspired light fixture, sweeping living spaces and quaint his and her bathrooms all give this home an eclectic assortment of styles that at least won't bore you. Of course, Curbed doesn't see it the way we do, calling the interiors "cheesy." But friends can agree to disagree. (Love you, guys.)

With five bedrooms, five bathrooms, a wine cellar and wet bar, and a terrace with gorgeous 360-degree views, we're just looking on the bright side.

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See the listing for more details.

More on AOL Real Estate:
Find out how to calculate mortgage payments.
Find homes for sale in your area.
See celebrity real estate.
Find homes for rent in your area.

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Foreclosure Sales Increase as Homebuyers Look for Deals

Filed under: News, Buying, Foreclosures

Many Americans are still having trouble obtaining mortgages thanks to high credit standards set and maintained by lenders, but a large number are also now turning to less expensive properties to make their dreams of homeownership come true.

In the third quarter of the year, consumers snatched up 193,059 properties that were in some stage of the foreclosure process or considered bank-owned, up 21 percent from the number seen in the previous three-month period, according to new data from the real estate data firm RealtyTrac. However, despite that increase, the level of foreclosure purchases remained 3 percent below that seen in the same quarter last year.

Nonetheless, foreclosure-related sales also accounted for 19 percent of all residential transactions in the U.S. between July and September, which held steady from last year's ratio, but was down 20 percent from the previous quarter, the report said. On the other hand, sales of homes in the foreclosure process outnumbered those that lapsed into being REO properties, which runs against trends observed during the past few years. In all, there were 98,125 sales of homes in pre-foreclosure, compared to just 94,934 transactions of properties that were REO, or "real estate owned" (another term for lender-owned). That may indicate that in many cases, completed foreclosures are being seen as less attractive options for banks and homeowners alike.

Related: Search AOL Real Estate's Foreclosure Listings

"The shift toward earlier disposition of distressed properties continued in the third quarter as both lenders and at-risk homeowners are realizing that short sales are often a better alternative than foreclosure," said Daren Blomquist, vice president of RealtyTrac.

In all, pre-foreclosure sales climbed 22 percent from the previous quarter and on an annual basis, the report said. Meanwhile, the average price of those transactions declined 3 percent on a quarterly basis and 5 percent year-over-year. At the same time, REO sales rose 19 percent from the period between April and June, but slipped by 20 percent from the third quarter of last year. Prices were down 7 percent from those in both previous timeframes.

Related: 4 Secrets to Scoring a Bank-Owned Property Deal

Consumers may be more interested in buying homes either approaching or past the point of foreclosure because of the far lower price tag, but also because prices for other, healthier properties have been on the rise in recent months. Experts believe the latter trend could continue through the end of next year at least.

See more on Credit.com:
Many Don't Take Advantage of Mortgage Interest Deduction
How a Mortgage Can Help (or Hurt) Your Credit
What You Need to Know About Off-Season House Hunting

More on AOL Real Estate:
Find out how to calculate mortgage payments.
Find homes for sale in your area.
See celebrity real estate.
Find homes for rent in your area.

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BlockAvenue integrates neighborhood reviews with Google's Street View

Brokers and agents will be invited to promote their local knowledge

read more

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Objective agent ratings nothing to fear

Commentary: Industry should encourage innovation that puts real estate pros front and center

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Hurricane Sandy Recovery, One Month Later: Alhadad Family Still Struggling for a Place to Stay

Filed under: News

It's been more than a month since Hurricane Sandy tore through the Northeast, leaving behind billions of dollars in damage.

Now as survivors dig out and try to regroup from the Oct. 29 storm even as wintry weather moves in, some are coping better than others.

This is the second of five stories of Sandy victims trying to find their way ahead after the storm.



By Meghan Barr

Finding a warm place to lay their heads at night has become a full-time occupation for the Alhadad family, who swam to their SUV in waist-deep water as the ocean roared down their block on New York's Staten Island during the storm.

They slept in the car at first, running the engine to keep warm. But soon the family of six resumed sleeping in their tiny two-room rental home, which was reduced to a soggy, mildewed mess after the water rose nearly to the ceiling on the first floor.

The wreckage of their belongings was thrown out, replaced by donated furniture covered in Red Cross blankets and towels.

Piled under layers of blankets and sleeping bags on the floor, the family ran a generator for a few hours at night to drift off into a warm sleep. But when morning came, they were chilled to the bone.

"All of us have really bad colds," said Rachael Alhadad, who has a hacking cough. "We just take it day by day, that's all. That's all you can do now."

Last week, FEMA finally put the Alhadads up in two rooms at a nearby Holiday Inn, where they'll stay until the federal money runs out on Dec. 15. After that, if their home is still uninhabitable, the family might be eligible for a two-month rental assistance grant from FEMA. But they haven't made plans and aren't sure what's next.

Rachael and her husband, Amin, spend their days shuttling back and forth between the hotel and the house, cleaning the house and cooking meals on the gas stove, which is one of the only things in the house that still works.

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Now they must wait as their landlord negotiates with his insurance company. As the days grow shorter, the place has become a damp breeding ground for mold.

"They have to bleach the walls. They have to redo all the floors," Rachael said. "The whole thing. The bathroom, the kitchen cupboards, the fridge."

Amin, who emigrated to the U.S. years ago from Dubai, lost his job as a truck driver because he missed so much work after the storm.

The stress of the past few weeks has taken its toll on 14-year-old Ameer and 15-year-old Ayman, who lost all of their school books and supplies in the flood.

"They just got their report cards, and they're not doing very good at all," Rachael said. "It's hard to study. Because then you gotta think about, 'Oh no, I gotta go home to the same thing again.' "

Part 1: Small-Town Mayor Digs In to Rebuild His Town

See also:
Hurricane Sandy Victims' Electric Bills Show Charges for Power Despite Blackout
Hurricane Sandy Batters Home Sales in Storm-Affected Areas
Home Insurance for Hurricanes and Floods

More on AOL Real Estate:
Find out how to calculate mortgage payments.
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Find foreclosures in your area.
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As-is sale does not excuse false disclosure

What to do if bank fails to follow through on mold removal

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Short Sales Jump Ahead of Tax Hike

Filed under: News, Selling

By Les Christie

A soon-to-expire tax break for troubled homeowners is helping drive a spurt in short sales.

During the three months ended Sept. 30, short sales in which homeowners had fallen behind on mortgage payments soared 22 percent over past year, according to a report released Thursday by online marketing company RealtyTrac. By comparison, short sales by people current on their payments went up 17 percent.

In a short sale, homeowners sell at a price that is less than what they owe the bank, and the bank agrees to absorb the loss. The bank unloads the house and the homeowner gets out of a mortgage he can't afford.

And currently, homeowners don't have to pay federal tax on the unpaid mortgage debt because of a bailout-era law known as the federal Mortgage Debt Forgiveness Act.

Related: An End to Bush-Era Tax Cuts Could Push High-End Properties Onto Market

But the act expires on Dec. 31 and, unless it is extended, the IRS in January will start treating unpaid mortgage debt as taxable income for many borrowers. The average amount of forgiven debt in a short sale is about $95,000, according to Daren Blomquist, vice president of RealtyTrac. The tax on that could go as high as $33,250, even more if the Bush tax cuts expire.

So real estate agents are pushing to get short sales done by the end of the year, worried that if they don't, deals will fall apart with the prospect of big tax bills, Blomquist said.

"They're encouraging people to sell before the tax break ends," he said.

With the year-end deadline approaching, short sales could spike even more in the current quarter.

"If that law expires, homeowners who agree to short sales could see their income tax jump significantly because the portion of the unpaid loan balance not covered by the short sale proceeds will be considered taxable income in many cases," Blomquist said.

Related: Fiscal Battle Over Mortgage Deduction

This quarter, more homes in foreclosure were sold as short sales than repossessed by banks and resold.

"Both lenders and at-risk homeowners are realizing that short sales are often a better alternative than foreclosure," said Blomquist.

For banks, the calculation on short sales goes like this: Yes, they take a loss. But they also unload the property -- an attractive option given that banks must bear the costs of maintaining homes they repossess.

Foreclosures can be costly for banks. They get stuck with legal costs as well as taxes and maintenance expenses. The longer it takes to repossess a home -- and it can take years -- the more the expenses mount. Short sales can happen quickly.

In addition, homes in short sales go for higher prices than ones repossessed in foreclosure and resold by banks. The average sales price comparison: $191,025 for short sales vs. $161,954 for homes sold by banks in foreclosure.

Another factor driving short sales: Since March, the five biggest lenders have been able to claim some of the forgiven debt in short sales as credits against what they owe under the mortgage abuse settlement that they reached with the government. Already, the banks have approved $13 billion in short sales for 113,000 borrowers under that pact.

One group left out of the benefits of the tax break are homeowners in California, Arizona and 10 other states in which the IRS does not tax forgiven debt because of those states' laws.

See more on CNNMoney:
There's a Home Price Recovery -- But It's Really, Really Slow
10 Least Affordable Cities to Buy a Home
Rent a President's Ski Lodge

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Britney Spears Can Be Your Neighbor in Wayne Gretzky's Former Home (House of the Day)

Filed under: News, House of the Day

This Thousand Oaks, Calif., mansion, originally custom-designed for Wayne Gretzky by star architect Richard Landry, has a long history.

After Gretzky built the estate in 2002, he spent five luxurious years there before selling it to disgraced baseball player Lenny Dykstra, who had plans to flip it. Dykstra paid around $17.5 million for the house in 2007, right before the housing crash. After failing to sell it for $24.5 million in 2008, the home went into disrepair. There were reports of sewage escaping from a main drain and beer bottles, trash -- even dog feces -- littered throughout the house. Dykstra eventually lost the home in foreclosure, and it was sold at auction in 2010.

%Gallery-173031%
But the current owners have given the home a complete makeover, and it's now in selling shape -- to the tune of $14.995 million!

The 13,000-square-foot estate boasts six bedrooms and eight bathrooms in the prestigious Sherwood Country Club enclave. According to the listing, each room features "exquisite attention to detail and artisan craftsmanship." The property also sits atop a hill, overlooking mountains and Lake Sherwood. And besides its celebrity pedigree, the new owner of this house can count Pete Sampras and Britney Spears among the neighbors!

The property also features two guesthouses, a "championship" tennis court, a pool and an outdoor entertainment area with a wood-burning pizza oven -- and a wood and gas barbecue.

See the listing for more details.

Click on the images below to see more homes for sale in Thousand Oaks, Calif.



See more Houses of the Day on AOL Real Estate.

Got a tip for House of the Day? Know of an exceptional or unusual property currently listed for sale? Please email krisanne.alcantara@huffingtonpost.com with your suggestions and be sure to include links to listing details and photos. (Due to the volume of response, we unfortunately are unable to respond to each submission.)

More on AOL Real Estate:
Find out how to calculate mortgage payments.
Find homes for sale in your area.
Find foreclosures in your area.
See celebrity real estate.

 

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Read More... [Source: AOL Real Estate - Blog]

Britney Spears Can Be Your Neighbor in Wayne Gretzky's Former Home (House of the Day)

Filed under: News, House of the Day

This Thousand Oaks, Calif., mansion, originally custom-designed for Wayne Gretzky by star architect Richard Landry, has a long history.

After Gretzky built the estate in 2002, he spent five luxurious years there before selling it to disgraced baseball player Lenny Dykstra, who had plans to flip it. Dykstra paid around $17.5 million for the house in 2007, right before the housing crash. After failing to sell it for $24.5 million in 2008, the home went into disrepair. There were reports of sewage escaping from a main drain and beer bottles, trash -- even dog feces -- littered throughout the house. Dykstra eventually lost the home in foreclosure, and it was sold at auction in 2010.

%Gallery-173031%
But the current owners have given the home a complete makeover, and it's now in selling shape -- to the tune of $14.995 million!

The 13,000-square-foot estate boasts six bedrooms and eight bathrooms in the prestigious Sherwood Country Club enclave. According to the listing, each room features "exquisite attention to detail and artisan craftsmanship." The property also sits atop a hill, overlooking mountains and Lake Sherwood. And besides its celebrity pedigree, the new owner of this house can count Pete Sampras and Britney Spears among the neighbors!

The property also features two guesthouses, a "championship" tennis court, a pool and an outdoor entertainment area with a wood-burning pizza oven -- and a wood and gas barbecue.

See the listing for more details.

Click on the images below to see more homes for sale in Thousand Oaks, Calif.



See more Houses of the Day on AOL Real Estate.

Got a tip for House of the Day? Know of an exceptional or unusual property currently listed for sale? Please email krisanne.alcantara@huffingtonpost.com with your suggestions and be sure to include links to listing details and photos. (Due to the volume of response, we unfortunately are unable to respond to each submission.)

More on AOL Real Estate:
Find out how to calculate mortgage payments.
Find homes for sale in your area.
Find foreclosures in your area.
See celebrity real estate.

 

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Read More... [Source: AOL Real Estate - Blog]