The Real Estate Gofer

ALERT: Real Estate Scam, Dr. Yang Wants a $1M House!

Chuck Webb (Wilkinson & Associates) — Fri, 18 Dec 2009 11:03:26 -0600

BEWARE OF THIS EMAIL SCAM! I received the following email yesterday:

"Dear Sir/Madam,

I am Dr. Yang Hua Marcello The Retering president of Hangzhou Iron & Steel Group Company, China. I am currently looking to buy a house in any nice neighborhood.

I am currently looking to buy a four (4) to six bed rooms house with the price ranging from $500,000.00USD to $1,000,000.00USD and I would want to retain your lawyer in all the process buying the property e.g. documentation and payment.

Please if you have properties with similar description please contact me as soon as possible so that we can make arrangement for the payment and all paper work.

Please give full price of each property including tax if applicable. I am willing to make a full payment of any choosing property and this is a cash purchase and must be unfurnished. Please contact me at my Email: hazsteelgroupcompany@asia.com

FOR ANY ASSISTANCE PLEASE CONTACT MY STOCK BROKER Mr. SMITH @ 1-205-258-1906

Regards,

Dr. Yang Hua Marcello
Banshan County, Gongshu Dct,
Hangzhou Zhejiang 310022
China.
president Hangzhou Iron & Steel Group Company
Telephone: 010-845-2101/ 010-845-3198
Fax:010-6460250
Email: hazsteelgroupcompany@asia.com
Website: http://www.hazsteel.com"

It appears that Realtors in other areas of the country have received this same email under another alias. Our "Dr Yang" has been very busy person! See this Active Rain blog post.

November Real Estate Report

Chuck Webb (Wilkinson & Associates) — Fri, 18 Dec 2009 09:59:09 -0600

Listed below is the residential real estate market summary for the Charlotte area for the period November 6, 2009 through December 5, 2009:

Sold: 2,000; avg. LP $216,507; avg. SP $195,244; %LP/SP 90.18%
New Listings: 3,614; avg. price $253,741
Under Contract: 1,645; avg. price $224,944
Withdrawn: 1,347; avg. price $344,878
Expired Listings: 1,418; avg. price $330,351
Active Listings: 23,317; avg. price $305,275

The number of homes sold during the month of November decreased 9.5% compared to October’s figures, but was 31.5% above the level of home sales for November, 2008. The average selling price for the month fell 4.9% from prior month, but increased 1.1% from a year ago.

There were 29% fewer withdrawn and 12% fewer expired listings for the month of November compared with last month. This is probably due to an increase in market activlty on a trend line basis for the year.

Total inventory of active listings remained relatively constant compared to October, but was down substantially from November, 2008. A year ago we had 27,488 active listings in inventory compared to 23,317 last month, or a decrease of 15.2%.

Hopefully, the newly extended and expanded homebuyer tax credit will stimulate home sales in the months where we typically see the lowest volume of activity. That would be for next 3 months where we saw a mere 1,350 homes sold last December, 1,258 in January, and 1,348 in February of this year. Those numbers are down roughly 50% below what they were in 2007.

Chuck Webb, Wilkinson & Associates, www.ChuckWebb.net

Callonwood Neighborhood in Stallings

Chuck Webb (Wilkinson & Associates) — Thu, 17 Dec 2009 10:11:41 -0600

Callonwood in Stallings NC is the perfect neighborhood for families who want a quiet setting with neighborhood amenities and a convenient location. Located just inside Union County, Callonwood is adjacent to the Town of Matthews.

Community shopping, including grocery stores, pharmacies, and restaurants are nearby, as is the Siskey YMCA with health and sports programs for every age level. Downtown Matthews has numerous parks, festivals, a farmers market, library, along with several restaurants and other shops only a short drive away.

Callonwood was designed for those who want a low-maintenance lifestyle. Several sections of the neighborhood have single-family homes on small lots. Townhomes with exterior maintenance provided by the homeowners association are located near the Clubhouse. Most of the homes have craftsman styling with front porches and stone and shingle accents. Community amenities include a two-story Clubhouse with pool plus sports fields for soccer and baseball, and a playground picnic area.

Homes in Callonwood range in size from 2000 to over 4000 square feet and are priced from the $200,000s to the $400,000s.

Elementary School: Anioch
Middle School: Weddington
High School: Weddington

View available homes for sale and area map of Callonwood

Contact Chuck Webb, Wilkinson & Associates, www.ChuckWebb.net, 704-724-2454

Important Tips On Buying That Next Home

Chuck Webb (Wilkinson & Associates) — Mon, 14 Dec 2009 11:39:42 -0600

Finding the right home is the result of good preparation and solid research with a little basic education thrown in. Here are a few simple, but important tips to help you in your search for a new home.

TIP #1: LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION

I know that this sounds like a cliché, but it's true. Location is the largest single factor to consider. Do your own research regarding the neighborhood, schools, places of worship, desirable amenities, and the general "feel" of the community.

TIP #2: Know how much you can afford

Consult with a qualified home mortgage consultant and be knowledgeable about your income, your credit score, and what you owe. Armed with this information, you can make an informed decision about how much house you can afford and how much money you will need up front.

TIP #3: Choose a knowledgeable real estate agent

Your real estate agent should be knowledgeable about the local real estate market. You need to be confident about your choice for Realtor and that they are professional and reputable. When you hire an agent, be sure to sign a Buyer Agency Agreement, and insist that your agent clearly explain the entire purchase process to you. Listen to your agent's advice. Their experience and market knowledge is invaluable in regard to your decision process. Most importantly, their duty is to be your trusted advisor, and they will guide you smoothly through the process, avoiding the potential pitfalls of the home buying process.

Contact Chuck Webb, Wilkinson & Associates, www.ChuckWebb.net, 704-724-2454

The Historic Town of Waxhaw, NC

Chuck Webb (Wilkinson & Associates) — Sat, 12 Dec 2009 13:48:07 -0600

The quaint and historical town of Waxhaw, NC is located in Union County, approximately 25 miles south of Charlotte. This beautiful community dates back to the 1700’s when the first European settlers came down the great wagon road. Most of the settlers were Scotch-Irish and German immigrants. However, the Waxhaw Indian tribe inhabited the area long before the European immigrants arrived. The name Waxhaw is thus derived from the Indians who first populated the area.

Around 1888 the railroad extended its rail line from the Atlanta area and brought with it a level of prosperity and growth to Waxhaw. The tracks still to this day run through the town dividing two rows of stores. Once dependent on cotton, it lost its popularity in the 1960’s. so Waxhaw reshaped its identity to an antique and fine dining center. The town currently has dining ranging from the good old mom and pop style to fine bistros. There are also over twenty antique shops and several gift shops.

The historical district is on the National Registrar of Historic Places. Waxhaw real estate enjoys easy access to a beautiful Town Park and the nearby Cane Creek Park, a 1,050 acre park that draws visitors with its beauty and its activities. Waxhaw is the perfect small town to raise a family with that laid back feel but not lacking in progression especially in schools, arts and sports for the families.

Its lower taxes, beautiful landscape, and quality schools have made it one of Charlotte area’s leading places to live. Waxhaw is dominated by beautiful homes, rapidly growing commercial and retail real estate, all of which has made convenience and job growth strong points for Waxhaw.

Although a fast growing area, Waxhaw is still largely rural with a forested and hilly setting which adds to the attraction as a relocation destination. This great small town is a little further south from the towns of Weddington and Marvin, but is still within reasonable distance to the big city amenities of Charlotte. In recent years, big city shopping and dining have made their way moved toward Waxhaw by way of the Ballatyne area, Blakeney, and Stonecrest Mall.

Waxhaw has a fine selection of neighborhoods with full amenity packages and prices to meet every family’s needs. They include Providence Downs, Somerset, Hunter Oaks, Marvin Creek, The Reserve, The Club at Longview, The Chimneys at Marvin, Lawson, Cureton, Hollister, Quellin, and Providence Grove just to name a few.

Search for Homes for Sale in Waxhaw

Contact Chuck Webb, Wilkinson & Associates, www.ChuckWebb.net, 704-724-2454

5 Reasons For You to Buy That Home Now

Chuck Webb (Wilkinson & Associates) — Wed, 09 Dec 2009 15:26:41 -0600

If you're qualified to buy a home now, and that home purchase makes sense for you and your family, here are five reasons why you should consider buying that home in the next several months:

1. Homes are more affordable than ever.

According to the National Association of Realtors' housing affordability index, homes were more affordable in October of this year than at any other time since the group started the index in 1970. The NAR’s affordability index is a measure of the relationship between home prices, mortgage interest rates, and family income.

In Charlotte, the average home price in October was $196,204 compared to $216,777 in 2008 and $217,504 in 2007. That’s a 9.8% reduction over the past 2 years. Although that doesn’t sound like much, you still get a lot more for the money on a home purchased in the Charlotte area than in other areas of the country.

2. There is a large inventory of homes from which to choose.

In many areas of Charlotte it is taking upwards to a year to sell a home, creating a lot of inventory — from new homes to existing homes to foreclosures. In October, there was 23,850 homes for sale in the entire Multiple Listing Service area of Charlotte.

A large selection of homes gives you, the home buyer, more choices and helps to curtail listing prices. Lately, home sellers have become more conscious of market conditions and are pricing their homes accordingly in order to sell their homes quickly.

3. Builders are offering huge incentives.

Home builders are getting even more aggressive with their pricing and other incentives that help them sell homes. New home prices are less negotiable with a builder than with a home being sold by the owner-occupant. That is due to the fixed costs such as labor, lot prices, and construction materials that make up the price that a builder will ask for a particular home.

Other aspects of the home purchase such as upgrades, closing costs, and other buyer incentives such as appliances, blinds, etc. will generally be the most negotiable in the contract for a new home. I am seeing an increase in closing costs and upgraded features like cabinets, flooring, grade of carpet, and counter tops being offered to attract or close the deal with new home buyers.

This means that you will get more house for the money, which will translate into increased market value when you go to sell in the future.

4. Mortgage rates are historically low.

It's not just the price of the home that will affect affordability; mortgage terms will also affect your monthly payments. These days, rates are very attractive for conforming loans, those that can be purchased by mortgage agencies Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac.

Rates are still below 5% and are expected to remain at that level on into next year on a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage. But low rates don't mean lenders are handing out mortgages easily. You'll need good credit, a substantial down payment, and a willingness to document your income in order to qualify for those great rates.

5. A federal tax credit is available.

In November, President Obama signed a bill extending the first time home buyers $8,000 tax rebate. Included in that bill is an expansion of the original plan to include existing homeowners. The expansion provides a $6,500 tax rebate for qualified buyers who already own their home.

Both tax credits will be in effect until April 30, 2010. These provisions offer a tremendous opportunity for first time home buyers and certain existing homeowners to buy a home before the April deadline.

Search for Homes for Sale in the Charlotte area.

Chuck Webb, Wilkinson & Associates, www.ChuckWebb.net, 704-724-2454

Rock Hill Named Best City to Raise Kids

Chuck Webb (Wilkinson & Associates) — Mon, 07 Dec 2009 15:43:39 -0600

Rock Hill is the best place to raise kids in South Carolina for the second straight year according to Business Week magazine. Rock Hill is only 20 miles south of Charlotte, and has warm weather and some of the best public schools in the state. Rock Hill is also home to Winthrop University, a four-year liberal arts college that was ranked the eighth-best public university in the Southeast by U.S. News & World Report in 2006.

Affordable, safe, and family-friendly are the key words to describe the criteria that was used to select Business Weeks’ picks for top cities in this year's report.

The selections were limited to towns that have at least 45,000 residents and a median income of between $40,000 and $125,000. The data that were used included school performance, number of schools, household expenditures, crime rates, air quality, job growth, family income, museums, parks, theaters, other amenities, and diversity.

Affordability, safety, and school test scores were given the greatest weight in the poll. The use of this set of criteria and how it was weighted is indicative of the things that are important in choosing a community in which to raise a family.

Chuck Webb, Wilkinson & Associates, www.ChuckWebb.net, 704-724-2454

Marvin Creek in Popular Union County Location

Chuck Webb (Wilkinson & Associates) — Sun, 06 Dec 2009 11:09:49 -0600

Located in Waxhaw near I-485, the luxurious Marvin Creek community features single-family executive and estate homes. At Marvin Creek, your family can enjoy winding nature trails, tennis courts and a 6,500 square-foot clubhouse.

This beautiful family-oriented community offers an array of outstanding amenities, including a spectacular swim complex complete with a beach front pool, lazy river, geyser park, and of course, tennis.

Marvin Creek is conveniently located to many of South Charlotte's best amenities. Ballantyne, Stonecrest, and Blakeney Greens are all just a few minutes away. Beautiful parks with lakes and creeks, challenging public and private golf courses, and fine dining and entertainment are also nearby.

In addition, Marvin Creek is only a short commute to the airport and uptown Charlotte, and is easily accessible to 1-485, I-85, and I-77. Excellent schools round out the many ways Marvin Creek is such a great place to live.

Marvin Creeks homes are beautifully-designed with award-winning architectural style and detail. These magnificent homes range in size from 3000 to over 6000 square feet and are priced from $500,000 to over $1,000,000. There is every conceivable amenity to be found to make your family as comfortable as they can possibly be.

Elementary School: Marvin
Middle School: Weddington
High School: Weddington

View available Homes for Sale with area maps of Marvin Creek

Contact Chuck Webb, Wilkinson & Associates, www.ChuckWebb.net, 704-724-2454

Monteith Park, TND Community in Huntersville

Chuck Webb (Wilkinson & Associates) — Fri, 04 Dec 2009 16:22:08 -0600

Monteith Park is a master-planned Saussy Burbank community in Huntersville just 13 miles north of uptown Charlotte. Monteith Park blends charm and character with architectural design to create a community known for its graceful front porches and wide-open spaces. The traditional neighborhood design (TND) gives the nostalgic feel of a bygone era of the early 1900's.

At the heart of this pedestrian-friendly community is a 30-acre network of parks, walking trails, bike paths and picnic areas. Monteith Park residents also enjoy a clubhouse, a junior Olympic size pool, waterslide, a children’s wading pool and a playground.

The Town of Huntersville is convenient to the recreation of Lake Norman, the Carolinas’ largest man-made lake with over 520 miles of scenic shoreline. Huntersville is also the future home of Discovery Place Kid, a museum designed to inspire learning for children. Birkdale Village, as well as, Northlake Mall are just minutes away that will provide you with an enormous selection of shopping and dining.

Homes in Monteith Park range in price from the high $100’s to the high $200’s. You will find every style and size to meet your family’s needs, from 1500 square feet to over 3000 square feet of comfortable living space.

Elementary School: Huntersville
Middle School: Bailey Road
High School: North Mecklenburg

View available Homes for Sale along with area map in Monteith Park

Contact Chuck Webb, Wilkinson & Associates, www.ChuckWebb.net, 704-724-2454

Providence Downs, Premier Waxhaw Community

Chuck Webb (Wilkinson & Associates) — Wed, 02 Dec 2009 11:45:15 -0600

Providence Downs is an exclusive custom home community conveniently located on Rea Road in Waxhaw, about 25 miles south of Charlotte. It's location in Union County, with close proximity to the Ballantyne area, make it a premier community for those who seek a rural, country setting with easy access to shopping, dining, and entertainment.

This neighborhood features the best of suburban living with luxury homes, low taxes, and great schools, yet firmly rooted in the "horse country" area of Union County. It also displays an equestrian heritage reminiscent of the Kentucky Derby with street names such as, "Churchill Downs," "Seattle Slew," and "Victory Gallop ."

Providence Downs features exquisite homes and spacious wooded lots which are nearly one acre plus. There is full array of amenities such as a pool, clubhouse, tennis courts, basketball court, walking trails, a playground, and soccer field which are sure to keep your family busy.

The community offers a diverse selection of architectural styles, such as French Provincial, Transitional, Contemporary, and Colonial. Homes range in size from 4000 to over 8000 square feet and are priced from the $500’s to over $3 Million.

Elementary School: Sandy Ridge
Middle School: Marvin Ridge
High School: Marvin Ridge

View available Home for Sale with area map in Providence Downs

Contact Chuck Webb, Wilkinson & Associates, www.ChuckWebb.net, 704-724-2454

Willowmere, SE Charlotte Community

Chuck Webb (Wilkinson & Associates) — Mon, 30 Nov 2009 13:26:19 -0600

The Willowmere neighborhood is located in southeast Charlotte and offers residents the perfect blend of conveniences. Homeowners are minutes away from fine shopping such as the Promenade at Ballantyne Commons, the Arboretum and Providence Plantation. The neighborhood is also located directly across from the Sisky YMCA, one of the largest and nicest YMCA in the nation.\Homeowners can walk to Colonel Beatty Park. The neighborhood is also conveniently located to the county's better schools. Our children attend McKee Road Elementary, J.M Robinson Middle School and Providence High School.

Willowmere is a swim and tennis community with 4 lighted tennis courts and a beautifully decorated clubhouse. Willowmere has numerous clubs and committees and hosts social events for all ages throughout the year. There is a very active Neighborhood Watch and are one of Charlotte Mecklenburg designated Neighborhood Watch communities.

Elementary School: McKee Road
Middle School: J.M. Robinson
High School: Providence

View available homes for sale and area map of Willowmere

Chuck Webb, Wilkinson & Associates, www.ChuckWebb.net

Preparing Your Home For Sale - Hiring the Right Contractor

Chuck Webb (Wilkinson & Associates) — Sun, 29 Nov 2009 19:37:24 -0600

Preparing your home for sale might seem like a daunting task, especially if you have serious issues to deal with. In addition, remodeling and improvement projects for your home can be as intimidating as they are rewarding. Having the right team to get the job done can make a huge difference and help you to keep your sanity in the process.

The first thing is to determine what kind of professionals you'll need for your particular project. Small jobs may only require trade specialists such as a plumbing contractor, while larger projects may necessitate architects, design-build companies, interior designers, or all of the above.

Whatever help your remodel needs, selecting the companies or individuals that fit you and your project is important. Here are five ways to screen prospective contractors:

#1: Check their experience

How long have they been in business? How much work have they done on projects similar to yours?

#2: Get references

Call references and ask questions about quality of workmanship, communication and dependability.

#3: Check their credentials

Most areas require that contractors be licensed and insured. A good contractor won't hesitate to provide such documentation.

#4: See their work

Look at pictures, but also visit recent and older projects to view the craftsmanship and durability of work done.

#5: Establish trust

A contractor with a detailed, specific plan is important, but you should also feel in your "gut" that you could trust someone with a project of this magnitude. Being comfortable with your contractor is very important.

The Reserve at Gold Hill

Chuck Webb (Wilkinson & Associates) — Sun, 29 Nov 2009 19:23:55 -0600

The Reserve at Gold Hill boasts an excellent location, a million dollar amenity complex with swimming pool, clubhouse, and multi-court airnasium.

Located just off I-77 at the Gold Hill Road exit, this wonderful neighborhood lies within the highly sought after Fort Mill School district. Getting to Charlotte, nearby Lake Wylie, Carowinds, or to the airport is a snap. You're also close to Baxter Village with all of the shopping and restaurants that it has to offer. Several golf courses are located nearby, as well as Charlotte Knights Baseball Stadium which is almost right across the street.

This community features two Award-winning Home Collections. The Executive Collection of homes range in price from $229,900 to $315,895 and have between 2166 and 2639 square feet depending on the style, bedrooms, and floorplan. The Classic Collection homes are priced from $288,900 to $409,900 and have from 2458 to 3760 square feet.

Elementary School: Pleasant Knoll
Middle School: Springfield
High School: Fort Mill

Click Here to view available Homes for Sale along with area map of The Reserve at Gold Hill.

Chuck Webb, Wilkinson & Associates, www.ChuckWebb.

Simplifying the Home Buyer Tax Credit

Chuck Webb (Wilkinson & Associates) — Fri, 27 Nov 2009 10:35:22 -0600

Earlier this month President Obama signed a bill extending the first time home buyers $8,000 tax rebate. Included in that bill is an expansion of the original plan to include existing homeowners. The expansion provides a $6,500 tax rebate for qualified buyers who already own their home. Both tax credits will be in effect until April 30, 2010. These provisions offer a tremendous opportunity for first time home buyers and certain existing homeowners to buy a home before the April deadline.

"The only thing I would say is that if history teaches us any lessons we should move forward sooner rather than later," says Mark Sauers, Assistant Vice President with Sun Trust Mortgage. "April 30 will be here before we know it. I really do not expect any further extensions beyond this."

With all that being said, the following guide will simplify the qualification process for homeowners looking to take advantage of the home buyer tax credit.

$6,500 Tax Credit for buyers who already own their home:

1. Income qualifications: Single taxpayer incomes must not exceed $125,000 and married couples income can not exceed $225,000.

2. Purchase date qualifications: Purchase must be after November 6, 2009 and on or before April 30, 2010.

3. Ownership qualification: Buyers must have lived in their previous home for five consecutive out of the past eight years. The purchase price of the new home can not exceed $800,000 and the new home must be a personal residence (non investment or non-owner occupied).

The total tax rebate is equal to 10% of the purchase price, up to a total of $6,500 and does not need to be repaid to the Government.

$8,000 First time home buyer tax credit:

1. Income qualification: Single tax payer income can not exceed $125,000 and couples filing jointly can not exceed $225,000.

2. Purchase date qualification: All sales that occur between January 1, 2009 and April 30, 2010.

3. Buyer qualification: Anyone who has not owned a home during the previous three years prior to current purchase.

The same tax credit structure applies to the first time home buyer. The total tax rebate is equal to 10% of the purchase price, up to a total of $8,000 and does not need to be repaid to the Government.

Contact a Realtor for information about homes for sale in your price range, as well as the home purchase process. He/she can also recommend a qualified home mortgage consultant who can pre-qualify you for your purchase and discuss available mortgage programs to meet your financial needs.

Chuck Webb, Wilkinson & Associates, wwwChuckWebb.net

Edinburgh Community in South Charlotte

Chuck Webb (Wilkinson & Associates) — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 08:19:05 -0600

Edinburgh is a community of 137 single-family homes located in the southernmost corner of Charlotte on Providence Road West between Johnston Road (Hwy 521) and Lancaster Highway – just 2 miles from I-485 and a 20 minute drive to Uptown Charlotte.

Edinburgh is only minutes from great shopping: Ballantyne Commons, Carolina Place Mall, Stonecrest, and Blakeney are only a short drive away.

Recreation and entertainment opportunities abound in this area. The Ballantyne YMCA's nearby facilities offer a wide range of activities. A 10-minute drive will take you to Carowinds amusement park, and the Charlotte Knights' Castle (baseball stadium of the Chicago White Sox farm team) is in nearby Fort Mill. Regal Cinemas at Stonecrest, the Arboretum Cinema and Ballantyne Village Theatre are only 10-minute drive away.

This great neighborhood features homes with 1800 to 2000 square feet of heated living area priced from the high $100,000’s to the low $200,000’s. Edinburgh is a wonderful starter home community in an ideal location of Charlotte with award winning schools.

Elementary School: Ballantyne
Middle School: Community House
High School: Ardrey Kell

View available Homes for Sale with area maps in Edinburgh

Chuck Webb, Wilkinson & Associates, www.ChuckWebb.net

October Real Estate Report

Chuck Webb (Wilkinson & Associates) — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 13:15:39 -0600

Listed below is the residential real estate market summary for the Charlotte area for the period October 6, 2009 through November 5, 2009:

Sold: 2,210; avg. LP $218,050; avg. SP $196,204; %LP/SP 90.02%

New Listings: 4,863; avg. price $259,794

Under Contract: 2,400; avg. price $217,013

Withdrawn: 1,899; avg. price $341,375

Expired Listings: 1,610; avg. price $343,767

Active Listings: 23,850; avg. price $312,647

The number of homes sold during the month of October increased 13.4% compared to September and 19.6% above the level of home sales for October a year ago. The average selling price for the month decreased 0.3% from prior month, but was down 9.5% from a year ago. The first time homebuyer tax credit has been effective in stimulating local home sales and the market prices seems to have leveled off for now.

The average price reduction on home sales for the month of October was 9.8%, compared to 10.5% in September and 8.7% for October a year ago.

Total inventory of active listings decreased 13.5% for the month compared to September and 16.5% below that of October, 2008. An increase in home sales for the month of 13.4% combined with an increase in withdrawn listings of 23.6% helps to explain the loss of available inventory.

A reduction in available homes for sale will have an offsetting effect in the “buyer’s market” we have seen over the past several years. This may help to explain the leveling off of home selling prices, and it will be interesting to see how this might effect the overall Charlotte market in the coming months.

The extension and expansion of the homebuyer tax credit will surely have a positive impact, not only in the starter home segment of the market, but also in the group of homeowners who wish to “move up” to their next home purchase. As this bill takes effect, we may see inventories increase and selling prices continue to stabilize in the Charlotte area.

Chuck Webb, Wilkinson & Associates, www.ChuckWebb.net

$150,000 Price Reduction in Springfield!

Chuck Webb (Wilkinson & Associates) — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 10:13:29 -0600

The best new home value in Springfield is now aggressively priced at $649,900, a $150,000 reduction in the original price. With over 4,300 square feet of living space, there is plenty of room for everyone in this great Evans Coghill home. Located in beautful Springfield, Fort Mill's premier golf community, on a home site that adjoins an undisturbed wooded buffer, you will enjoy the privacy of your rear porch and room in this home.

Look at the features of this fabulous home:

Full unfinished basement

5 roomy bedrooms and 3.5 baths

Master Bedroom on the main level

Large open kitchen with stainless steel appliances and granite countertops

Bright breakfast room or sunroom overlooking wooded backyard

Built in cabinetry in Family Room

Large formal dining room

Cozy library

Family Activity Center large enough for a pool table and seating

Hardwood flooring throughout living areas

3 car garage

Timeless homes and an enduring reputation has made Evans Coghill Homes a preferred builder in some of the Carolinas most successful neighborhood developments, raising the bar for quality construction and proving demand in previously untested markets. Evans Coghill Homes built a reputation for building classically designed homes with traditional elevations. Their homes are especially attractive to buyers who want right-size living. This home is representative of Evans Coghill Homes' commitment to quality construction and customer satisfaction.

Don't miss this opportunity to live in a highly sought after Fort Mill golf community and enjoy the best schools in the Charlotte metro area.

Elementary School: Springfield
Middle School: Springfield
High School: Nation Ford

Click Here for a Virtual Tour of this Wonderful Springfield Home.

Chuck Webb, Wilkinson & Associates, www.ChuckWebb.net

Taylor Glenn in Popular Indian Trail

Chuck Webb (Wilkinson & Associates) — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 08:49:58 -0600

Taylor Glenn, located in popular Indian Trail, offers a family-oriented environment with lighted streets and sidewalks on both sides of the streets. The neighborhood amenities include two playgrounds, lighted tennis courts, a soccer field, a kiddie pool, and an Olympic size pool with a lifeguard.

The Taylor Glenn Community has nearly 400 homes which includes a small section of townhomes. The single family detached homes are mostly 2 story with a few ranches and 1/5 story, and range in size from 1800 to 3500 square feet with three to five bedroom floor plans. Pricing ranges from the high $100,000’s to the high $200,000’s and would fit the budget of the first time home buyer or the those wishing to move up in price or location from an existing home.

Located in the Charlotte metropolitan area, Indian Trail is a growing community that has plenty to offer new and established residents. The city survives and continues to grow because the local government nurtures the manufacturing and retail businesses in the area, as well as the residents, ensuring that everyone's needs are truly met.

There is plenty to do in and around the area of Indian Trail. Local residents enjoy a host of outdoor activities, such as horseback riding, baseball, soccer, swimming, and other sports and activities. As part of Union County’s continuing growth, the Taylor Glenn Neighborhood is close to shopping, the Levine CPCC Campus, and a short drive from Uptown Charlotte.

Elementary School: Sun Valley
Middle School: Sun Valley
High School: Sun Valley

Click Here to view available Homes for Sale with area map in Taylor Glenn

Chuck Webb, Wilkinson & Associates, www.ChuckWebb.net

Cardinal Woods in Historic Pineville

Chuck Webb (Wilkinson & Associates) — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 13:04:24 -0600

Just a few miles south of the Charlotte city line in Mecklenburg County you’ll find the charming suburban town of Pineville. Pineville is best known as the birthplace of James Knox Polk, the 11th president of the United States. It also has a significant place in the history of the area and of the local Indians who dwelled here.

Known for its laid back small town lifestyle and being Charlotte’s closest neighbor, Pineville also offers a mild year-round climate, gorgeous landscape, low crime rate and a flourishing economy. Pineville has a small town feel with a quaint Main Street all its own, and antique and specialty shops with something for everyone.

Pineville is also home to the Cardinal Woods Neighborhood, a community of 187 homes and 9 homes in Cardinal Woods estates. Cardinal Woods is in an ideal location, near Carolina Place Mall, Ballantyne, Carowinds, and a short hop from Uptown Charlotte via I-77 or LYNX light rail system.

Homes in this wonderful neighborhood range from 1800 to 3000 square feet and are priced from the high $100,000’s to the low $300,000’s.

Elementary School: Pineville Middle School: Community House High School: South Mecklenburg

View available Homes for Sale with area maps in Cardinal Woods

Chuck Webb, Wilkinson & Associates, www.ChuckWebb.net

Homebuyer Tax Credit to be Extended and Expanded!

Chuck Webb (Wilkinson & Associates) — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 18:15:28 -0600

Earlier this week, the U.S. Senate unanimously passed an extension and expansion of the homebuyer tax credit. This morning, the House of Representatives approved the agreement reached in the Senate by a vote of 403-12. The bill has now passed both chambers and is awaiting the President’s signature, which could be as early as tomorrow!

Below is a summary of the new modifications in the extension and expansion of the tax credit:

1) The $8,000 tax credit will be extended and available for first-time purchases before May 1, 2010.

2) A new $6,500 tax credit will be available for repeat buyers who purchase between December 1, 2009, and May 1, 2010. To qualify for this provision, buyers must have used the home sold or being sold as a principal residence consecutively for 5 of the previous 8 years.

3) Prospective purchasers with binding contracts in place as of April 30, 2010, will be allowed an additional 60 days to complete the transaction.

4) Income limits are expanded to $125,000 on a single return and $225,000 on a joint return.

The time could not be better to buy your first home now that prices and interest rates are still down. Consult your Realtor for more details on how to take advantage of this golden opportunity.

Chuck Webb, Wilkinson & Associates, www.ChuckWebb.net

Charming West Charlotte Ranch - $124,900

Chuck Webb (Wilkinson & Associates) — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 14:22:26 -0600

Here is a beautiful 3 bedroom, 2 bath ranch in a growing area of Charlotte. The Fairways at Pawtuckett neighborhood is close to I-485, a brand new shopping center with Food Lion and other great stores, as well as U.S. National Whitewater Center. Also nearby, you have schools, churches, and more.

This wonderful home features an open floor plan, and has recently been remodeled with new HVAC, new appliances, and hardwood floors. The house is situated on a large cul-de-sac lot with a level, fenced backyard and plenty of room for the kids to romp around. The exterior is maintenance free vinyl siding and trim, so no more painting!. It has a 2 car garage with opener and remote. A washer and dryer are also included in the sale. Agent/owner

Elementary School: Pawtuckett
Middle School: Coulwood
High School: West Mecklenburg

Click here for more information about this home including inside photos and locator map.

Chuck Webb, Wilkinson & Associates, www.ChuckWebb.net.

Providence Grove in Waxhaw

Chuck Webb (Wilkinson & Associates) — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 12:18:05 -0600

Come home to a fabulous South Charlotte neighborhood with pool and cabana, located in historic Waxhaw, North Carolina. Providence Grove is located within the highly acclaimed Union County school district with students attending Kensington Elementary and the brand new Cuthbertson Middle and High Schools.

This wonderful community offers spacious ranch and 2 story homes with three to five bedrooms on lots ranging from 1/3 to 1/2 acre in size, including basements. This combination of quality, lush surroundings, and distinctive, spacious homesites is unmatched in this amazing Union County location.

Many of the homes in Providence Grove have a number of custom features in including mud room downstairs, premium cabinetry in kitchen, extensive hardwood flooring and much more! You’ll also find a bonus room upstairs and three-car garage in some homes. Many homes feature an open and dramatic two-story foyer which greets you when you enter and leads you to unbelievable floor plans.

Homes in Providence Grove range in size from 3000 to 4000 square feet and are priced from $275,000 to $375,000.

Elementary School: Kensington Middle School: Marvin Ridge High School: Cuthbertson

View available Homes for Sale with area maps in Providence Grove

Chuck Webb, Wilkinson & Associates, www.ChuckWebb.net

Hamilton Lakes, SW Charlotte Community

Chuck Webb (Wilkinson & Associates) — Thu, 29 Oct 2009 16:34:26 -0500

This wonderful KB Home community is one of Charlotte's hottest communities! It features a pool and cabana, lots of common open space, and a beautiful lake on property. In fact, you're only a short drive to Lake Wylie with all the boating, fishing, and water recreation that it has to offer.

The homes range in size from a 1,400 square foot ranch to a 3,000 square foot 4 bedroom two story home with 2 car attached garage. Pricing ranges from the $150,000’s to the $230,000’s.

Hamilton Lakes also features a great selection of shopping and entertainment which is conveniently located in either Rivergate or Ayrsley Shopping Centers. To get to Hamilton Lakes, travel south on Highway 49 (South Tryon), turn left on Highway 160, and then take a left on Hamilton Road. Hamilton Lakes will be on your left.

Elementary School: Winget Park Middle School: Southwest High School: Olympic

View available Homes for Sale with area map in Hamilton Lakes

Search for Homes for Sale along with area maps in Charlotte

Chuck Webb, Wilkinson & Associates, www.ChuckWebb.net

Plaza-Midwood Neighborhood of Charlotte

Chuck Webb (Wilkinson & Associates) — Tue, 27 Oct 2009 10:59:09 -0500

In the early 1900s, Plaza-Midwood grew from several developments that were started by various interests. But challenges slowed its growth. In Dilworth and Elizabeth, bridges were built to carry the trolley over or under railroad tracks. But Plaza-Midwood commuters didn't have a bridge, and a busy track at Central Avenue meant frequent waits. Plaza-Midwood residents also had to transfer to a separate streetcar line that was battery powered, unlike the electric lines that served the other neighborhoods.

In 1910, a group of businessmen purchased land for a golf course out in the country on the north side of Central Avenue. In 1917, it became the Charlotte Country Club, the city's oldest country club. Land developed west of the clubhouse was planned for a subdivision, but city leaders didn't embrace the neighborhood for their homes until they could depend on their own automobiles for transportation.

Today, being able to get uptown quickly is still one of the reasons people choose the community that's bordered by Central Avenue and The Plaza.

The changing face of the neighborhood includes the new $400 million Morningside Village development that will replace a 1950s-era barracks-style apartment complex. The 32-acrea project will include small condos to penthouses, plus retail and commercial space.

With Shamrock Gardens Elementary School as the home school for Plaza-Midwood, families with elementary students have move out of the neighborhood in recent years to send their children to schools with higher test scores. But a new movement in the neighborhood is underway to get volunteers with the school and assist with fund-raising efforts. Parents who have chosen to keep their children at Shamrock Gardens are encouraging other families to get involved and make a difference in their children's education.

With all three communities ranked as stable on the city's quality of Life index, the early years of the 21st century will go down in history as a time when Dilworth, Elizabeth and Plaza-Midwood again enjoyed good times. And although residents will come and go, many who live there now are lese neighborhoods home.

Plaza-Midwood offers an eclectic blend of new, renovated, and fixer-upper ranch-style, 1.5 and 2 story homes ranging in size from around 800 to over 4000 square feet and priced from the low $100,000's to the $600,000's.

View available homes for sale with area map in Plaza-Midwood

Conduct a custom search for comparable homes in Charlotte.

Chuck Webb, Wilkinson & Associates, www.ChuckWebb.net

Del Webb's Sun City Carolina Lakes

Chuck Webb (Wilkinson & Associates) — Mon, 26 Oct 2009 10:14:11 -0500

Located just five miles from the North Carolina border and only a short distance from The Queen City of Charlotte, Del Webb’s Sun City Carolina Lakes is just minutes away from shopping, dining, entertainment venues, and award-winning medical facilities. Everything you need for your invigorating, active life style, including the Charlotte Douglas International Airport, is within your reach.

Sun City Carolina Lakes offers the best in senior living lifestyle and provides residents with unlimited opportunities to learn something new, be creative, shoot some pool, or sit at The Lake House and enjoy the company of new friends and neighbors.

Located within Lancaster County, and only a short distance from Charlotte, North Carolina, the Sun City Carolina Lakes property consists of 1,512 acres of rolling green forests and dotted with 10 pristine lakes and ponds. It is also home to the Carolina Lakes Golf Course which meanders through the community.

In addition to the championship 18-hole golf course, Sun City Carolina Lakes has a host of other amenities. They include a resort-style pool, 8 water-cooled clay tennis courts, 4 bocce courts, 2 pickle ball courts, horseshoe pits, badminton courts, an outdoor pavilion, an amenity lawn, a boardwalk along the wetlands, community gardens, a dog park, and a woodworkers shop!

The 40,000-square-foot recreation center, the Lake House, is the community activity center and is comprised of a state-of-the-art fitness center, an aerobics studio, an indoor lap pool, an indoor walking track, a ballroom, a demonstration kitchen, a billiards room, a pottery studio, a library/computer room, craft rooms, and numerous classrooms where clubs can meet.

Homes in Sun City Carolina Lakes range in price from the $100's to the $300's. You'll find ranch style homes and 1.5 story homes, some with basement, ranging in size from 1500 to over 3000 square feet.

View available Homes for Sale with area map in Sun City Carolina Lakes

Chuck Webb, Wilkinson & Associates, www.ChuckWebb.net