My new favorite place in Denver, NC is The Naked Oyster - an oyster bar that serves up the best bucket of steamed oysters I have ever eaten.  Obviously you can get your "naked" raw oysters served on a half shell along with other yummy things - but something about that bucket. 

Not only is the food great - but the ambience is great too.  This will be the place to go and watch all those football games that will be coming up.  There are several televisions along with projector screens. 

Michelle Hall is a NC real estate agent, serving the Lake Norman and surrounding areas.  If you are interested in buying or selling in the Lake Norman area call Michelle at 704-608-2408.  If you are moving outside of the area, Michelle can refer you to a professional realtor® who will give you the best customer service and help you will all your real estate needs as she has connections in almost every major city across the U.S.

For all you first time home buyers... now is the perfect time to buy YOUR house.  As you may have noticed, rents are rising and home sale prices are coming down.  Add the affordable interest rates to the equation and you have the perfect reason to become a home owner. 

Theodore Roosevelt once quoted, "Every person who invests in well-selected real estate in a growing section of a prosperous community adopts the surest method of becoming independent, for real estate is the basis of wealth."

Did you catch that?  Real Estate is the basis of wealth!  This is the time to take advantage of today's low interest rates and ample inventory of homes.  But it doesn't stop there.  Not only can you partake in the best time to become a homeowner, but Congress passed a new, temporary tax credit to provide another incentive for first time homebuyers.  From April 9, 2008 - July 1, 2009, first- time home buyers may qualify for 10% of the purchase of the principal residence; up to $7500.

Now what does all this mean?... The $7500 incentive is an interest-free loan that must be paid back over a 15 year period.  Remember that it is only for 10% of the cost of the home and not to exceed $7500.  So, if you were to sell your home during the 15 year payback period, then the remaining amount must be recaptured (paid at closing), unless the home sold at a loss; it is forgiven.

But how do you qualify?  First you must be a first-time homebuyer (not having owned a house for the past 3 years), and the home you are purchasing must be your principal residence (not a rental property or vacation home).  There are certain income requirements that apply.  If you file for a 1040 (single status), and make up to $75,000, then you qualify.  If you file a joint return and make up to $150,000 then you qualify.  But what if you make $75,001 or $150,001, then you will get a partial credit. 

Payment on the tax credit will begin the following calendar year of the closing on your home.  Equal installments will be made over the 15 year period.  The payment will be 6.67% of the cost of the home.  If you received the full $7500 tax credit then you will pay $500/year. 

Warning: Once the market begins to turn around, this situation may no longer exist, and if China and other foreign investors begin pulling away from the US dollar, mortgage rates will rise to levels that will make it hard for first-time buyers to enter into the housing market.  Real estate is constantly evolving and changing.  What may be relevant one day, may be nonexistent the next. 

 If you are interested in buying a home in the Lake Norman and surrounding areas, give me a call (704-608-2408).  I would love to help you find the perfect home.

About the author:

Michelle Hall is a Lake Norman Residential Real Estate Broker who can assist you with the purchase and/or sale of real estate in Lake Norman and surrounding counties.  She can help you stage your home or connect you with a stager who will get you results. If you are looking to move outside the area, Michelle can help you find a realtor with excellent customer care skills.  Please visit www.LKNelitehomes.com for your relocation and/or your local needs.

Michelle Hall - Century 21 Hecht. - 704-608-2408 - mhall@c21hecht.com

Copyright © 2008 By Michelle Hall, All Rights Reserved...*First-time Homebuyers...Buy Now*

Do you see the silver lining in today’s housing market?  Well if you don’t, it is going to be hard for you to paint a pretty picture for your clients.  Look at all the positive things going on around you!!

In case you haven’t heard, Congress has passed a new tax credit for $7500 to first time home buyers.  Did you hear that?  Think of how great that is…with housing prices coming down and mortgages still affordable, the market can be greatly stimulated by first time home buyers.  It can be stimulated by as much as 2 million home sales throughout the U.S.   It all comes together in such a perfect way…what great timing.

If you check out the latest home sales index report you will see that the index jumped by 5.3% last month from a downwardly 84.5%. Not only that, but it rose in all four regions of the country suggesting that the market may be turning around.

According to a report by National Association of Home Builders on August 19, “Nationally, 55% of the homes that sold from April through June were affordable to families earning the US median income of $61,500”.  Now why is that so important?

Gopal Ahluwlia, an NAHB economist quoted “Homes became more affordable because median income and interest rates remained about the same throughout the country, as home prices continued to fall.  This is definitely positive news because more people can afford to buy a home.”   You can check this out in CNNMoney.com, 8/19/08

Here are some recent quotes which may help you see the silver lining:

“There are encouraging signs that the (housing) sector is healing, according to Marck Schniepp, executive director of the California Economic Forecast Project in Goleta, California.  Prices don’t appear to be falling as rapidly as they were, sales are rising, and default notices appear to be leveling off.  “For one thing, there’s a lot of inventory, and interest rates are still low, and that situation may not exist when the market begins turning.””

-       Laurie Rutledge, sales associate in Ventura, “Positive Signs are Seen in Housing,”by Jenni Mintz, Ventura County Star, August 19,2008

“The National Association of Realtors reports that the average price of homes in the Binghamton metro area increased 8.7 percent in the second quarter.  According to local real estate experts, it’s because Binghamton avoided the housing boom and bust. “It’s a good time to sell; it’s a good time to buy.  We’re at a fairly good balance.””

<!--[if !supportLists]-->-         <!--[endif]-->Randy Templeman, associate broker in Binghampton area, “Bringhamton Housing Market Second Best in Nation,” by Neil St. Clair, News 10, August 16,2008

“May through July was the first three-month period to see year-over-year gains in the number of (Lansing, Mi) area houses sold since early 2005, according to data from the Greater Lansing Association of Realtors.  “There are actually fewer homes getting listed and more homes getting sold every week.  As soon as you see that start to happen – and you see the trend and it’s not going back and forth – it’s definitely a sign.””

<!--[if !supportLists]-->-         <!--[endif]-->Chris Wretschko, president of the Greather Lansing Association of Realtors, “Home Sales Rise Locally; Average Price Falls by 22%,” byt Jeremy W. Steele, Lansing State Journal, August 17,2008

So when you hear someone complaining about the market… tell them that things are looking up and getting better.  Focus on the positive!

When people ask you about the market… only tell them the positive things that are happening, and then the positive things will come your way. 

About the author:

Michelle Hall is a Lake Norman Residential Real Estate Broker who can assist you with the purchase and/or sale of real estate in Lake Norman and surrounding counties.  She can help you stage your home or connect you with a stager who will get you results. If you are looking to move outside the area, Michelle can help you find a realtor with excellent customer care skills.  Please visit www.LKNelitehomes.com for your relocation and/or your local needs.

Michelle Hall – Century 21 Hecht. - 704-608-2408 – mhall@c21hecht.com

God created us to act as one body (given your purpose; someone may work better as the legs or feet; while another may work better as the hand, or eye), but sometimes we stray and wander around aimlessly not understanding; feeling sorry for ourselves; angry at the world, ect.  But one thing I have learned over the past year is that our Intentions and Desires really do have an infinite power. 

God gave us free will and with that comes choices which begin with our thoughts.  It starts there – with a single thought.  The way we think and what we think transform into physical things.  If you are constantly negative, you are attracting negative things.  Look at the closest friends you have.  Are they negative people?  If so, you probably are too.  You attract situations, people, and circumstances into your life.  So if you are constantly in a state of pessimism, guess what…that is what you will get.  If you are a positive person, you will attract positive people and circumstances into your life.  And when you hit a wall, depending on how you think, you will either give up and turn back around; or find a way to go around or get through it. 

By surrendering yourself to the Creative Mind, you open yourself up to a world of possibilities.  God truly loves us and wants us to succeed not suffer.  He designed the world in such a way that if you try to listen to him and cling close to him, you find yourself in a sea of opportunity… Love is the ultimate reality.   

A person who lives life in a positive way would look at failure as an opportunity to do better, knowing success is only one step away.

Failure is the opportunity to begin again, more intelligently.

Henry Ford

But people who wallow in their sorrows and see the world as one constant battle after another will remain that way, unless they begin to think more positive thoughts.

People who consider themselves victims of their circumstances,

will always remain victims unless they develop a greater vision for their lives.                                                                                              -Stedman Graham

I know sometimes life can get hard and it seems that there is no way out of your situation, but if you believe , no matter what you may see with your own eye, that God has a better plan for you, you will rise above and land on softer ground.  All things important can not be seen by the Human Eye, so remember that God is in constant work around you.  And remember, he gave you free will to think the way you do.  You can choose the way you think.  Think positive and you will see the results; think negative and you will see the consequences. 

Give thanks for all you have, even the trials in your life.  Because those trials will teach you and help you succeed in the future. 

According to a recent survey conducted by Harris Interactive with over 1300 homeowners, many don’t feel that their property has been affected by the weakened housing market and actually feel that their home has increased in value.

Two out of three homeowners think the value of their home has increased in value over the past year, when in fact 77% of homeowners have seen their home values fall. 

Why am I telling you this? ...  If your home is currently on the market, or you are thinking of putting it on the market, remember that your property has most likely decreased in value over the past year.  Depending on your situation, you need to make sure your home is priced competitively in today’s market.  

If you are listed as FSBO “for sale by owner” do not make the mistake of putting your home up for more than today’s market will pay just to see if you get a bite.  You will wind up putting money in the buyer’s pocket because of this major mistake.

 If you are listed with a realtor, and haven’t had any leads, talk to him/her about reducing your price.  And if you’re realtor, has suggested lowering your price and you haven’t, you need to reconsider.  Your realtor’s job is to make sure your house is priced correctly in your local market in order to sell. 

About the author:

Michelle Hall is a Lake Norman Residential Real Estate Broker who can assist you with the purchase and/or sale of real estate in Lake Norman and surrounding counties.  She can help you stage your home or connect you with a stager who will get you results. If you are looking to move outside the area, Michelle can help you find a realtor with excellent customer care skills.  Please visit www.LKNelitehomes.com for your relocation and/or your local needs.

Michelle Hall – Century 21 Hecht. - 704-608-2408 – mhall@c21hecht.com

Copyright © 2008 By Michelle Hall, All Rights Reserved...*Are you oblivious…

A new neighborhood has opened up to the Huntersville, North Carolina area.  Located only 3 miles from 1-77 (exit 12 ramp) just off Gilead Road, and 10 minutes from Birkdale Village and North Lake Mall,  Beckett is a close drive to Charlotte, Denver, and Mooresville; only 5 minutes from Lake Norman. 

The homes in Beckett range from $350,000 - $700,000.  Each of the 174 lots will be around 1/3 acre.  The Award-Winning Buidler, Shea Homes will pay $5000 in closing costs on homes closed in this prestigious neighborhood.  As always, when it comes to Shea Homes, there are distinguished executive features that make this builder stand out from the rest.  Beckett will have a club house, pool and a tot lot.

If you are interested in buying in this neighborhood, please call Michelle Hall at 704-608-2408.  Remember, it does not cost you, the Buyer, a single penny to have a buyer's agent.  It is very important to be represented by an agent when buying real estate, even new construction. 

HOA Dues: $675/yr

Taxes:

Mecklenburg County                               0.8387/$100

Town of Huntersville                                0.29/$100

Total                                                     1.1287/$100

Area Schools:

Torrence Creek Elementary                      980-343-0695

Bradley Middle                                       980-343-5750

Hopewell High                                        980- 343-5988

Chesterbrook Academy (preschool)           704-875-1801

Christian Montessori                               704-875-1801

Huntersville christian Academy                 704-875-6040

St. Mark Catholic School                          704-766-5000

Student Information Pre-K KG 1st Grade 2nd Grade 3rd Grade 4th Grade 5th Grade 6th Grade 7th Grade 8th Grade 9th Grade 10th Grade 11th Grade 12th Grade  21   667   616   604   495   544   597   1,264   1,313   1,205   1,658   1,289   1,064   951    Numbers of Students

It's only 41 days until our Denver Days Fall Festival.  Many Lincoln county residents are counting down the days.  This event is a way to showcase our community with one purpose in mind…Fun. This is a fun-filled event with amusement rides; concession stands with popcorn, hotdogs, cotton candy and many other carnival type foods; contests; and music bands.  Much of the money earned is put right back into our community, such as; high school sports.

The event begins on September 24th and 25th with rides and special events.  However the actual festival begins on the 26th and goes thru the 27th. 

Century 21 Hecht is the primary sponsor of this event and will have 2 spaces right up front by the band stage for anyone who is interested in selling or buying real estate in the Lake Norman area. 

This year we will be bringing three bands to the festival: The Marshall Tucker Band, The Fantastic Shakers, and Confederate Railroad. 

Thursday 25^th is a night packed with adventure as we will be taking you back in time and letting the modern times slip away as you watch a movie from your car for the Denver Days Drive-In Movie Night and Classic Car & Hotrod Cruise-In.

Just imagine being around a bunch of classic cars enjoying a movie with your coke, hot dog, and popcorn in hand.  It is as if you took a time machine and went back to the ‘50s. 

Thursday is also the night to ride all the rides you want for one price.  Rides begin at 5pm and the movie will begin at dusk (around 7:30). 

So come on out and bring the family.  This will be a fun event for everyone of every age.  Our Little Town, Denver, offers Big Fun at this event.

It should be noted that the drive-in theater will benefit the BRAKES organization which has a mission of saving young lives.

On January 26, 2008, Doug Herbert (National Drag Race Champion) experienced something that a parent should never experience.  His 2 sons, Jon, 17, and James, 12, died in a fatal accident around Lake Norman.  When word got out about this tragedy, our heart sank. But after grieving the lost lives of his son, he turned around and went to action by helping to prevent other parents, and family members from going through what he has endured by developing the BRAKES program which stands for “Be Responsible and Keep Everyone Safe”.  This organization is all about saving lives and keeping children safe by promoting safety and responsible driving and raising awareness of young drivers.  

About the author:

Michelle Hall is a Lake Norman Residential Real Estate Broker who can assist you with the purchase and/or sale of real estate in Lake Norman and surrounding counties.  She can help you stage your home or connect you with a stager who will get you results. If you are looking to move outside the area, Michelle can help you find a realtor with excellent customer care skills.  Please visit www.LKNelitehomes.com for your relocation and/or your local needs.

Michelle Hall – Century 21 Hecht. - 704-608-2408 – mhall@c21hecht.com

Copyright © 2008 By Michelle Hall, All Rights Reserved...*Denver Days is Here Again

For all you sellers out there… listen up!  This is a very important piece of information that you do not want to miss out on. 

According to the Consumer Reports, September 2008 issue, about 1 in 10 sellers said they had ”wished that they made cosmetic changes to their home before putting it on the market.”  Even more expressed a deep regret by stating that they wished they had done this before selling their home because the price of their home sold significantly less than the original asking price. 

On average, a typical staging consultation can run you about $300.  If you were going to do a full staging, something that a vacant home desperately needs, the cost can be anywhere from $500 - $5000.  This includes rented furniture and accessories.  Now before you begin to think that sounds like a lot of money, keep in mind it is a lot less than your first home reduction.

According to a 2007 HomeGain Survey, a home that is professionally staged can give you an average return of 343%. Statistics have shown that homes that are staged receive a 6.9% price increase and spend 50% less time on the market. 

Since the market has softened a little, it is even more crucial to play your cards right.  Getting a stager is no longer a luxury but a necessity.  The average buyer spends about 4 hours a week on the internet looking at listed homes on the market.  If a buyer comes across a picture that looks disorganized, cluttered, out-dated, or just plain bland with builders beige on all the walls… what do you think he/she is going to do?  He is going to pass right over your home and go onto the next home.

Sell you home right by making your home stand out with the assistance of a professional stager.  

About the author:

Michelle Hall is a Lake Norman Residential Real Estate Broker who can assist you with the purchase and/or sale of real estate in Lake Norman and surrounding counties.  She can help you stage your home or connect you with a stager who will get you results. If you are looking to move outside the area, Michelle can help you find a realtor with excellent customer care skills.  Please visit www.LKNelitehomes.com for your relocation and/or your local needs.

Michelle Hall – Century 21 Hecht. - 704-608-2408 – mhall@c21hecht.com

Copyright © 2008 By Michelle Hall, All Rights Reserved...*2008 Consumer Report on Staging

Need a new pedicure? Well maybe you should try the latest and weirdest trend to hit the U.S....soak your feet in a tub full of doctor fish to eat away at your dry skin in this new style pedicure.

Yeah, that's right. Instead of scrubbing or scraping your feet to get rid of dry, dead, and calloused skin, the fish will nibble away and take care of it for you. This treatment actually began in Turkey, then Asia, and has now found it's way to the U.S.

For 45$, you can go to the Yvonne Hair and Nails salon in Virginia and let these little swarming fish (100 tiny Turkish carp) nibble away at your feet until they feel baby-smooth. So... are you game?

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