Charlotte NC Real Estate--Get the Charlotte Scoop Here

Join Us for an Open House TUES 12/8/2009 :: 10:30 - 12:00

Mon, 07 Dec 2009 22:39:08 -0600

Join us for a REALTOR coffee--public welcome, of course--Tuesday, December 8, 2009 from 10:30 - 12:00.

3030 South Charlotte NC is a unique blend of contemporary architecture and urban planning with focus on modern day transit needs. At first glance, you'll think that this hip complex is just that--a new, architecturally appealing condo complex in South End Charlotte NC! Well, this complex is a mix of flats, townhomes and live/work townhomes.

The lower level of the 4-level live/work townhomes in 3030 South - South End Charlotte NC, is zoned for commercial use, just for your office, hair salon--the possibilities are endless! There's plenty of parking for your visitors and you, of course, will have a large office and storage area on the 'business' level as well as two entrances on that same level. Your home above your office, has its own entrance, either through the garage or on the main level.

This is the only live/ work unit available in the complex! Your buyers will LOVE this live/work concept--unit shows like a dream with full office set up so that your buyers can see just how spacious it is!

Royalty I say, Simply Royalty :: A Few Tidbits about Charlotte NC

Mon, 07 Dec 2009 01:20:06 -0600

Royalty I say, Simply Royalty :: A Few Tidbits about Charlotte NC

Yes, Charlotte NC has genuine royal heritage! Founded in 1768, Charlotte was named after the wife of England's King George III, Queen Charlotte. Mecklenburg County, where Charlotte is situated, was named for Queen Charlotte's German home state.

Although Charlotte has a long and impressive history, what the city offers today is what makes it one of the top 20 places to live and work in America:

Excellent job opportunities
A top-tier school system
Various recreational and cultural activities
One of the country's most important financial, distribution and manufacturing centers.
Employment opportunities also abound in other industries, including services, retail, high-tech medicine, software development, and travel and tourism.
For nearly 30 years, the city's rate of economic growth has been twice the national average, an increase fueled by the number of high-profile companies that have opened offices in the area.

Besides Charlotte's outstanding employment outlook, residents also have the opportunity for a full and active lifestyle outside of work. Charlotte NC consistently ranks as one of the top fund-raising cities for art and cultural endeavors. The efforts of her residents have created and nurtured such local treasures as The North Carolina Blumenthal Performing Arts Center, The Mint Museum of Art and Charlotte's award-winning science museum, Discovery Place.

Another passion for the city of Charlotte is sports! Charlotte is home to various professional teams including two professional teams, the Carolina Panthers and the Charlotte Bobcats. The city is also the number one travel and tourism destination in the entire state of North Carolina.

Perhaps one of the biggest jewels in Charlotte's crown is her school system. Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools (CMS) has gained national recognition as one of the top urban school systems in the country. Charlotte's commitment starts even before kindergarten. Through the Bright Beginnings program, CMS offers literacy-rich curriculum to 4-year-olds who might otherwise start school a step behind.

Although Charlotte is one of the most impressive metropolitan cities in the nation, it still maintains its mid-size appeal. Charlotte NC is not too big, nor too small, it's just right! Charlotte combines big-city amenities with small-town charm.

What more could you want to feel at home in Charlotte NC?

Park Road Area New Condo :: Hardwoods & Much More! Preston Flats Charlotte NC

Sun, 06 Dec 2009 02:18:51 -0600

This condo is in a great SouthPark location near light rail!!

Overview
Maps
Photos
Description
Market Stats

$167,000

Condominium
For Sale

Main Features

2 Bedrooms
2 Bathrooms
Interior: 1193 sqft

Location

1000 Woodlawn Road
Suite 212
Charlotte, NC 28209

Debe Maxwell

Helen Adams Realty
(704) 491.3310
Debe@DebeMaxwell.com
http://www.SoldByDebe.com

Listed by: Debe Maxwell - Helen Adams Realty

Our recent listings

This condo is in a great SouthPark location near light rail!!
4br, 2.5ba - Spacious, Open Floorplan in Brookmere - Priced Like A Short Sale!!
4br, 3.5 ba - **REDUCED $100K** New Luxury Home in South Charlotte; Upgrades!
4br, 3.5ba - **REDUCED $100K** South Charlotte Custom Home with Lots of Upgrades - For Sale!
Seller to Pay ALL CLOSING COSTS (up to 3% of sales price)* in This Indian Trail Home

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See more Charlotte, NC real estate for sale

Shopping for Homes in the Fort Mill School District?

Sun, 06 Dec 2009 02:18:12 -0600

Don't Miss This Beautiful & Spacious Home in Legacy Park

Overview
Maps
Photos
Features
Description
Market Stats

$324,900

Single Family Home
For Sale

Main Features

5 Bedrooms
3 Bathrooms
Interior: 3508 sqft

Location

4007 Indian Hills Lane
Fort Mill, SC 29707

Debe Maxwell

Helen Adams Realty
(704) 491.3310
Debe@DebeMaxwell.com
http://www.SoldByDebe.com

Listed by: Debe Maxwell - Helen Adams Realty

Our recent listings

Subscribe to our listing feed

See more Fort Mill, SC real estate for sale

'Tis the Season: Holiday Selling Tips

Sat, 05 Dec 2009 12:29:48 -0600

'Tis the Season: Selling During the Holidays

During the holiday season, the focus for many turns to home and family. Many buyers cease searching for a new home during this time; however, there are many others who have no choice--they must continue their search because of job transfers, family changes or relocation. Due to the fact that many sellers feel that during this holiday season, they would prefer not to be 'disturbed,' they will temporarily remove their homes from the market until after the first of the year.

I recommend that my sellers remain on the market during this time if at all possible. The reason--there is far less competition. Yes, there are fewer buyers but, the competition is far less and you've got a better chance of selling during this season than waiting for the spring's flood of new listings.

Consider this--holiday festivities are a breeze at your home that is on the market during this season because you have already done the work to constantly keep your home in showing order to be prepared for a showing at a moment's notice. Your efforts to reach out to potential buyers could pay off during this challenging time!

When your home offers the features and amenities. location and price that a potential buyer is looking for, you are more likely to sell it quickly in the winter than waiting for the spring or summer buying seasons. Your home may very well be looking its best this time of year. Here are some tips for setting the stage for your holiday listing:

Adorn your front door with a festive wreath.
Place a fresh welcome mat at the front door.
Minimize your holiday decorations--tastefully selected decorations will give the buyer a 'warm' feeling but, not distract their eyes from your home, which is what you want to ultimately sell.
Remove furniture to accomodate your decorations--you don't want your home to appear smaller than it is because you've tucked a small tree in the corner and pushed your furniture together to accomodate that tree.
Holiday scents will make your home seem warm and welcoming--consider boiling an apple slice and a stick of cinnamon just before a showing. You can store your boiling pot in the refrigerator for several days for re-use.
If you're only stepping out of the home for the agents to show, leave it toasty with a fire in the fireplace. Do not leave your home unattended with a fire burning though!
Because winter months can be dreary because of the weather, raise your blinds and leave the lights on.
Do not over-decorate--all buyers do not celebrate the holidays in the same manner that you do so, give your home a warm feeling but, don't overdo it.
Leave your stereo playing classical or jazz music softly during showings.
As you leave your home for showings, ask yourself if you've appealed to all senses: visual, smell and sound. You may even want leave them cookies to appeal to their sense of taste!

Other holiday incentives you can offer:

If you can cover the buyer’s closing costs, or a portion thereof, you may attract potential buyers to your home by advertising this information.
Offer a “decorating allowance” for purchasing your home during the winter months.

Keep in mind that when you place or leave your home on the market during the winter holiday season, people rarely “browse” for homes during this time of year. The potential buyers who do visit your home are serious about buying and are often in a hurry to do so.

The equation is simple: Serious buyers + tastefully done festive décor = you, well on the way to selling your home! 'Tis the season!

Open House Tomorrow (Sunday) :: 3:00 - 5:00 :: Eastover Charlotte NC

Sat, 05 Dec 2009 12:29:21 -0600

Open House Tomorrow (Sunday) :: 3:00 - 5:00 :: Eastover Charlotte NC

Crownsgate - The perfect mix of modern with traditional charm. Prepare to be wowed by this all-brick townhome in historic Eastover Charlotte NC featuring garage, high ceilings (10' down, 9' up), private courtyard terrace, gleaming hardwood floors, heavy millwork and so much more! You will love the beautiful finishes: elegant biscuit glazed cabinets, stainless appliances & granite countertops, plantation shutters, gas fireplace, open floorplan & wall of windows. Large walk-in closets with built-ins & spacious bedrooms. Built-in stack stone bench & irrigation in professionally landscaped courtyard (enclosed by brick wall for privacy).

The tranquil, brick-enclosed courtyard terrace also offers an abundance of parking available for your guests in the adjacent Randolph Medical Park (across from the Mint Museum). The parking is available to homeowners in the Crownsgate Eastover Charlotte NC complex and the townhomes can be easily accessed from the terrace gate--the perfect solution for those evenings of entertaining. Although convenient to the medical park, the terrace remains secluded by the full brick wall and the mature landscaping within. Parking availability like this is impossible to find in the area--and especially in a townhome complex!

You'll love being nestled in the back of the community--so very quiet and peaceful. Come take the tour in Eastover SUNDAY, DEC 6 - 3:00 to 5:00. This one has it all--location, luxury and incredible price!

Shopping for Homes in Plaza Midwood Charlotte NC?

Sat, 05 Dec 2009 12:28:39 -0600

You Won't Want to Miss This Immaculate 3-Level Model Home Exclusive Plaza Midwood!

Overview
Maps
Photos
Features
Description
Market Stats

$425,000

Single Family Home
For Sale

Main Features

4 Bedrooms
3 Bathrooms
1 Partial Bathroom
Interior: 2350 sqft
Lot: 0.05 acre(s)

Location

1550 Tippah Park Court
Charlotte, NC 28205

Debe Maxwell

Helen Adams Realty
(704) 491.3310
Debe@DebeMaxwell.com
http://www.SoldByDebe.com

Listed by: Debe Maxwell - Helen Adams Realty

Our recent listings

Subscribe to our listing feed

See more Charlotte, NC real estate for sale

Join us for an Open House this Sunday from 3:00 - 5:00 in Crownsgate Eastover Charlotte NC

Thu, 03 Dec 2009 15:23:21 -0600

Join us for an Open House this Sunday from 3:00 - 5:00 in Crownsgate Eastover Charlotte NC

Tour this beautifully designed and totally functional in historic Eastover Charlotte NC that features garage, high ceilings, private courtyard terrace, gleaming hardwood floors, heavy millwork and so much more! You will love the beautiful finishes: elegant biscuit glazed cabinets, stainless appliances & granite countertops, plantation shutters, gas fireplace, open floorplan & wall of windows. Large walk-in closets with built-ins & spacious bedrooms. Built-in stack stone bench & irrigation in professionally landscaped courtyard (enclosed by brick wall for privacy).

This tranquil brick-enclosed courtyard terrace also has an abundance of parking available for your guests in the Randolph Medical Park (across from the Mint Museum). The parking is available to homeowners in the Crownsgate Eastover Charlotte NC complex and the townhomes can be easily accessed from the terrace gate. Although convenient to the medical park, the terrace remains secluded by the full brick wall and the mature landscaping within. Parking availability like this is impossible to find in the area!

Charlotte NC Real Estate Market Analysys 11/2009

Wed, 02 Dec 2009 23:16:50 -0600

Charlotte NC Real Estate Market Report - 11/2009

Data from the Charlotte NC MLS shows that our housing market continues to show a slow but, steady improvement. October sales continue to be heavy in the $250K and under market, allowing our second-time home buyers to move up as well.

Charlotte's local economy also appears to continue the upward trend that began in Q2, 2009. Mecklenburg County Charlotte NC expanded 11,500 jobs which was a 15% year-over-year increase from 2008. This, during the worst recession in many years, is nothing short of commendable! FORTUNE Small Business Magazine named Charlotte NC as the 7th best place to launch a business due to our stabilizing local economy.

The $8,000 Federal Tax Credit for First Time Home Buyers has been extended, with an added incentive for current homeowners. The increase in sales of the average-priced homes in Charlotte NC , is indicative of the surge in first-time home buyers, affording first- and second-time home sellers the ability to move up (as per the Charlotte NC MLS data here).

New Listings 10/2009:

Pending Sales NOV 2009

NOV Average Closing Price:

Year-over-Year Sales, Charlotte NC, Mecklenburg County

Need information about the Charlotte NC real estate market ? Contact us today !

Charlotte NC Real Estate Market Report NOV 2009

Wed, 02 Dec 2009 21:59:14 -0600

Charlotte NC Market Report, November 2009

As a member of the Charlotte Chamber of Commerce, my team has ready-access to new data pertaining to the city of Charlotte, including employment, sales and plans to expand local businesses. This information is reflective of the Charlotte NC housing market. Combined with data from the Charlotte NC MLS , the local economy appears to continue the upward trend that began in 2009, Q2.

The first three quarters of 2009 showed Mecklenburg County Charlotte NC expanding 11,500 jobs which was a 15% year-over-year increase from 2008. This, during the worst recession in many years, is nothing short of commendable. This is one of the reasons that FORTUNE Small Business Magazine named Charlotte NC as the 7th best place to launch a business!

Homes sold in the 'under $250K' price range reflect a large number of first-time home buyers who were taking advantage of the original $8,000 Federal Tax Credit for First Time Home Buyers here in Charlotte. The graph below also indicates that with the increase in sales of the average-priced homes in Charlotte NC , first- and second-time home sellers were able to move up; this statistic was reflected in the movement of the higher priced homes area as per the Charlotte NC MLS data below.

**Above data provided by CMLS is deemed reliable but, not guaranteed.

Should you be searching for or selling a home in the Charlotte NC area, we would love to assist you. Our team has many years of experience in the area to share with you and would be happy to assist you with your Charlotte NC real estate needs.

Myers Park High School Neighborhoods - Homes for Sale Charlotte NC

Wed, 02 Dec 2009 00:47:52 -0600

Myers Park High School Neighborhoods - Homes for Sale

Homes in the Myers Park High School zone are highly sought-after due to the popularity of the area and because Myers Park High School is of CMS's top nationally ranked schools.

Here is a list of currently active homes for sale in the Myers Park High School assigned zone that are in the $200,000 to $300,000 price range. Please note that all prices in specific neighborhoods are not limited to simply this price range–all price ranges are included in the neighborhood links for your convenience of comparison ’shopping’. All neighborhoods are not guaranteed to be included in this list of the homes for sale in Myers Park High School zone.

Arboretum Crossing
Arbor Estates
Ashbrook
Barclay Downs
Beverly Woods
Candlewyck
Cedar Croft
Cedarwood

Chantilly
Cherry
Colonial Village
Commonwealth
Cotswold
Dilworth
Elizabeth
Fairmeadows

Madison Park
Myers Park
Old Farm
Old Salem
Olde Colony
Olde Providence
Providence Landing
Rea Forest

Sedgefield
Selwyn Farms
Sharonwood Acres
Sherwood Forest
Wendover Hills
Wessex Square
Woodbridge

Search for all homes in the Myers Park High School District.

Search for homes in the $200,000 to $300,000 price range in the Myers Park High School zone.

Search for all homes in the $200,000 to $300,000 price range in Charlotte NC (all of the Charlotte Metro area)

Search for homes in the $100,000 to $200,000 price range in the Myers Park High School zone.

Search for homes in the $200,000 to $300,000 price range in the Myers Park High School zone.

Search for homes in the $300,000 to $400,000 price range in the Myers Park High School zone.

Search for homes in the $500,000 to $800,000 price range in the Myers Park High School zone.

Search for homes in the $800,000 and above price range in the Myers Park High School zone.

Search for all homes in the Charlotte NC Metro area, specific to your needs. Here you can search for number of bedrooms, baths, lot size, parking (garage, etc.), building features, building style and more! Search for specific public schools or even locate the nearest Starbucks to your favorite property!

Contact us for assistance if you’re thinking of buying or selling in the Charlotte NC real estate market!

*Please note–School zones sometimes change within the Charlotte Mecklenburg School System, therefore it is always better to check the system website at www.CMS.k12.NC.US

Visit www.SoldByDebe.com for your Charlotte NC real estate needs.

Wouldn't You Like to be Home for the Holidays at 4800 Carmel Park Road Charlotte NC ?

Wed, 02 Dec 2009 00:47:38 -0600

**PRICE REDUCED!!!*** European Estate!

Overview
Maps
Photos
Features
Description
Neighborhood
Market Stats

$2,149,000

Single Family Home
For Sale

Main Features

6 Bedrooms
5 Bathrooms
2 Partial Bathrooms
Interior: 6873 sqft
Lot: 1.65 acre(s)

Location

4800 Carmel Park Drive
Charlotte, NC 28226

Debe Maxwell

Helen Adams Realty
(704) 491.3310
Debe@DebeMaxwell.com
http://www.SoldByDebe.com

Listed by: HELEN ADAMS REALTY

Our recent listings

4br, 3.5 ba - **REDUCED $100K** New Luxury Home in South Charlotte; Upgrades!
4br, 3.5ba - **REDUCED $100K** South Charlotte Custom Home with Lots of Upgrades - For Sale!
Seller to Pay ALL CLOSING COSTS (up to 3% of sales price)* in This Indian Trail Home
4br, 3.5ba - Luxurious Custom Home with Many Upgrades - For Sale!
4br, 3.5ba - Spacious New Custom Home, Lots of Upgrades - For Sale!

Subscribe to our listing feed

See more Charlotte, NC real estate for sale

OPEN DOOR STUDIOS Presents the Holiday Favorite, 'Grinch'

Sun, 29 Nov 2009 18:14:51 -0600

OPEN DOOR STUDIOS Presents the holiday favorite, 'Grinch'

You're a mean one, Mr. Grinch! The classic Dr. Seuss tale with the mean one himself, has been produced by an all-star cast of both professional dancers and students from Open Door Studios in Plaza Midwood. The Holiday Dance Production of 'Grinch' will be proudly presented on:

Friday, December 11th | 6:00pm

Saturday, December 12th | 11:00am and 4:00pm

Sunday, December 13th | 2:00pm

You'll enjoy this ballets as the Grinch sets out to steal Christmas from all of the Whos down in Who-ville, but learns a lesson about Spirit and giving. Ticket prices are $10 and include cooa and cookies with the cast!

C.A.S.T. | 1118 Clement Avenue

You may purchase tickets online @ www.nccast.com or by calling (704) 455 - 8542

I Wish I Could Tell You What Your Agent ISN'T Doing to Sell Your Home...

Sat, 28 Nov 2009 12:39:39 -0600

OH, how I would like to send this to SO many sellers here as well! I handle both listings and buyers and think that it works hand-in-hand to understand both sides of the transaction and to stay abreast of what buyers want for my sellers and what sellers are willing to do for buyers as well.

The MOST frustrating thing from a buyer's standpoint is to have to sit and wait on a return call or email or both for DAYS, if not weeks, from the listing agent. If you don't want to sell the property, why list it? If you don't want to do one of the most important things with regards to your job as a listing agent, return calls, why are you listing property?

Sellers NEED to know that they have hired someone who will actually work for them--not put the listing in MLS, a sign in the yard and pray that the property will sell. This day and time, you must go above and beyond to get property sold. That's the very least you can do for the struggling sellers in this market.

OH, how I wish I could send this letter!

Via Donna Galinsky (Pugatch Realty Corp - Your Five Towns Real Estate Agent):

Have you ever wanted to contact a homeseller and say "Do you really know what your Agent is (or isn't) doing to market your home?"

I so want to do that right now. Just a shory anonymous note (don't want to get fined or anything).

Just want to say...

Dear Homeowner..

I just saw that you listed your house for sale. You have a lovely sign on your front lawn. A customer of mine saw your home on ListingBook the other day and had some questions.

She wanted to know the condition - Your agent only has 5 old photos of the outside of the house.
She asked about the kitchen and baths - I don't know, no pictures.
She asked when she could see it - Again, no idea says no showings until after open house.
She asked when the Open House was - I said, No idea, it is not on the listing.

I did call your agent, left her 2 voice mails, maybe when you speak with her you can ask her to return her phone calls.

Or maybe she is just keeping it quiet so she can sell it herself.

Want to wish you luck with your sale, and when you expire and are ready to really sell it - I'll be in touch!!

Signed
Anonymous

Agents who do things like this frustrate me. She is not a new agent, but she does this on ALL her listings. Guess she just wants to get both sides of everything. She has incomplete/incorrect listings, and if you do want to show one of her properties she makes you jump through hoops to do it.

She is the opposite of everything that I try to be and it just gets me angry when people list with people like her.

I put up the maximum number of pictures on MLS
I make sure to have complete ACCURATE information
Homes are displayed throughout the internet
Brokers and public Open Houses are scheduled and advertising.
I tend to get my listings written up in the local newspapers.

My job is to SELL your home I SELL houses, I don't collect them. If you have a customer, please show my homes.

Thanks for letting me vent, now maybe my head won't explode.

________________________________________________________
Donna Galinsky
FindYourHomeLI.com
Licensed Salesperson, Pugatch Realty Corp.

If you are thinking of buying or selling a home in Southwest Nassau County ( Cedarhurst, East Rockaway, The Five Towns, Gibson, Hewlett, Hewlett Harbor, Hewlett Bay Park, Hewlett Neck, Inwood, Lawrence, Lynbrook, North Woodmere, Oceanside, Valley Stream, Woodmere or Woodsburgh. Please visit my website for more information on buying and selling . You can also search the entire MLSLI . Let us tell you what makes us different from the rest.

South Charlotte Open House Sunday, November 29,2009:: 2:00 - 4:00 p.m.

Sat, 28 Nov 2009 11:07:27 -0600

South Charlotte Open House Sunday, November 29th :: 2:00 - 4:00 p.m.

Join us for a neighborhood open house in Hampton Oaks on Kuykendall Road (across from Providence Plantation) in South Charlotte - Three beautiful new construction homes will be open for you to tour.

The stunning Hobart Smith home photographed below is priced over $100K below market value! Trade-up to this or any of the three completed southern style luxury homes in prestigiuos South Charlotte. The large, open, spacious floorplans are perfect for entertaining. You'll feel right at home when you enter these homes with luxury appointments--gleaming hardwoods, granite countertops, upgraded lighting, stinless and so much more! The tree-preserved areas give the feel of country living, right in the city, with lush landscaping and gorgeous mature trees that envelope the community.

Stop by for our open house and tour these lovely homes for yourself--see the amazing quality these gorgeous homes have to offer that are so very affordable in today's market!

JUST Listed! South Charlotte New Construction by Hobart Smith Homes

Sat, 28 Nov 2009 11:07:10 -0600

4br, 3.5ba - **REDUCED $100K** South Charlotte Custom Home with Lots of Upgrades - For Sale!

Overview
Maps
Photos
Features
Description
Market Stats

$500,000

Single Family Home
For Sale

Main Features

4 Bedrooms
3 Bathrooms
1 Partial Bathroom
Interior: 3765 sqft
Lot: 0.36 acre(s)

Location

4914 Kuykendall Road
Charlotte, NC 28270

Debe Maxwell

Helen Adams Realty
(704) 491.3310
Debe@DebeMaxwell.com
http://www.SoldByDebe.com

Listed by: Debe Maxwell - Helen Adams Realty

Our recent listings

Subscribe to our listing feed

See more Charlotte, NC real estate for sale

South Charlotte NC New Construction - JUST LISTED!

Fri, 27 Nov 2009 21:08:03 -0600

4br, 3.5ba - Spacious New Custom Home, Lots of Upgrades - For Sale!

Overview
Maps
Photos
Features
Description
Market Stats

$500,000

Single Family Home
For Sale

Main Features

4 Bedrooms
3 Bathrooms
1 Partial Bathroom
Interior: 3765 sqft
Lot: 0.41 acre(s)

Location

4908 Kuykendall Road
Charlotte, NC 28270

Debe Maxwell

Helen Adams Realty
(704) 491.3310
Debe@DebeMaxwell.com
http://www.SoldByDebe.com

Listed by: Debe Maxwell - Helen Adams Realty

Our recent listings

Subscribe to our listing feed

See more Charlotte, NC real estate for sale

Myers Park High School Neighborhoods - Homes for Sale

Wed, 25 Nov 2009 16:59:24 -0600

Myers Park High School Neighborhoods - Homes for Sale

Homes in the Myers Park High School zone are highly sought-after. Here is a list of currently active homes for sale in the Myers Park High School assigned zone that are in the $300,000 to $400,000 price range. Please note that all prices in specific neighborhoods are not limited to simply this price range–all price ranges are included in the neighborhood links for your convenience of comparison ’shopping’. All neighborhoods are not guaranteed to be included in this list of the homes for sale in Myers Park High School zone.

Ashbrook
Barclay Downs
Beverly Woods
Canterbury
Carmel Park
Carmel Woods
Carsons Pond
Chantilly
Cherry

Commonwealth
Cotswold
Cottonwood
Darby Hall
Dilworth
Eastover
Edgemont
Elizabeth
English Meadows

Fairmeadows
Five Knolls Estates
Foxcroft
Meadowbrook
Midwood
Myers Park
Old Farm
Old Salem
Providence Park

Randolph Park
Sedgefield
Selwyn Farms
Sherwood Forrest
Singing Springs
SouthPark
Town And Country
Whitby Pond
Woodbridge

Search for all homes in the Myers Park High School District.

Search for all homes in the $300,000 to $400,000 price range in the Myers Park High School zone.

Search for all homes in the $300,000 to $400,000 price range in Charlotte NC (all of the Charlotte Metro area)

Search for homes in the $100,000 to $200,000 price range in the Myers Park High School zone.

Search for homes in the $200,000 to $300,000 price range in the Myers Park High School zone.

Search for homes in the $500,000 to $800,000 price range in the Myers Park High School zone.

Search for homes in the $800,000 and above price range in the Myers Park High School zone.

Contact us for assistance if you’re thinking of buying or selling in the Charlotte NC real estate market!

*Please note–School zones sometimes change within the Charlotte Mecklenburg School System, therefore it is always better to check the system website at www.CMS.k12.NC.US

Visit www.SoldByDebe.com for your Charlotte NC real estate needs.

Buyers, Act on Fact, Not Fear

Tue, 24 Nov 2009 21:24:42 -0600

Paul Slaybaugh's recent featured post, prompted me to expand on the comment that I made on his blog. Often, the consumer is the last to know what is truly happening in their local market. During the past year, numerous Charlotte buyers, who were under the impression that because local newspapers were printing national statistics, this same data applied to our local market. This misinformation resulted in missed opportunities due to the fact that the buyers were convinced that they were going to be able to purchase property for up to 50% off of list price. The 50% off price purchase was never an option in our market but, buyers were fearful that they would not get the 'deal' that they had heard that they would.

The moral of the story - act on fact, not fear or false/misleading information. Consult your local real estate expert for the data that you need to guide you in your home-buying and home-selling process. Don't rely on national news and averages to make this important financial decision; inaccurate could will cost you in the long run.

Fact: Charlotte NC real estate is not only local but, hyper-local, neighborhood-specific.
Fact: Charlotte NC unemployment is currently at 11%, down from last month
Fact: Sellers are getting an average of 95% of their list price.

Also, factual year-over-year data is provided below.

*This data was obtained from Charlotte MLS and is deemed reliable but, not guaranteed.

Consult your local Charlotte NC real estate expert for more hyperlocal statistics. It will guide you in the direction that you need to be going to secure the best property for the best price that fits your specifications.

Shopping for Condos in the Charlotte NC Myers Park Area?

Tue, 24 Nov 2009 21:24:24 -0600

Looking for Condos in the Charlotte NC Myers Park Area?

Charlotte Uptown

…You couldn’t have selected a more beautiful area in the city to live! This is one of the most historic neighborhoods and is located close to everything Charlotte–restaurants, sports complexes, the city’s best shopping, the southeast’s largest major medical center, arts and entertainment.

If you’re working in the Uptown Charlotte or the Charlotte NC SouthPark area, your days will be longer because your commute will be incredibly short! Enjoy a morning jog or walk along the Queens Road loop or visit the local Starbuck’s for coffee on your dash into Uptown! Take your lunch breaks and shop in the lap of luxury with valet parking at SouthPark Mall; shop ’til you drop at Nordstrom, Neiman Marcus, Belk’s, Kate Spade, Kenneth Cole, Tiffany & Company and many more fabulous upscale stores. You’ll even have time to dine in any of the fine restaurants in SouthPark including the Cheesecake Factory, California Pizza, Maggiano’s Little Italy or a wide selection of others.

Living in Myers Park is pure luxury and owning a condo in the Myers Park area is a solid investment as well. For listings in the Myers Park area, visit www.SoldByDebe.com.

Here are a few complexes that are in the Myers Park area that you may want to see before you decide where you purchase your Myers Park Charlotte NC condo:

2015 Queens Road West

Queens Six Two Six

2400 Roswell

Queens Station

400 Queens Roswell Place

420 Queens

Scotland Colony

Boxwood Condominiums

Carol Hall

Chelsea Place Condos

The Carlton

Country Club Rockledge

Myers Park City Homes

Windermere

Oakmore at Selwyn

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Can Short Sales Really Be Automated Like Cookie Cutters- One Size Fits All?

Tue, 24 Nov 2009 01:24:09 -0600

The short sales that I have been exposed to have all required a 'human factor' to get the job done. Case in point--one that I'm working right now with BOA: I was told to fax in the package, then told to upload it into the REO-Trans system. I did so and kept noticing that the information was disappearing. After several very long phone calls to a Bank of America rep, I wound up putting the information into the system a total of three times before one finally was visable to them--why, I don't know, I could see it just fine! Anyway, last week, still under the 'generic negotiator,' we got results--two approvals and one decline! What, what, WHAT? This was the SAME file! Same documentation, same EVERYTHING! Of course, I was frantically trying to delete the decline and keep one of the approvals but, can now find no one who knows the system well enough to assist me!

It's been a crazy mess--and suffice it to say, I personally prefer the lending institutions to keep some form of human factor in this--all hardships are not created equally and automation is not going to be able to evaluate this, or the financials in a 'fair' manner.

My opinion, they should have trained their staff on the new automated system BEFORE rolling it out to the agents!

Via Nestor & Katerina Gasset Realtors® Wellington Florida Luxury Homes (International Properties and Investments, Inc.):

Can Short Sales Really Be Automated Like Cookie Cutters and become like one size fits all? I don't think so. Real estate agents along with NAR made their voices heard to the powers that be in Congress and in the banking institutions. Of course, it is a pain to not have guidelines and to be negotiating short sales in wild, wild west fashion but on the other hand the cream rises to the top so the agents with the talent of negotiating skills and the gift of listening and communication skills rise above the rest and have come to have very successful short sale businesses, they close their short sales and save many homeowners from foreclosure.

Be careful what you scream for, be careful what you wish for- it may just come back to bite you.

Let's look at what is really behind the automation so widely being sought after by agents and the NAR these days in regards to short sales:

California based Equator who changed their name from REOTRANS- has created and is implementing the very first short sale automation process for a large lender. The company will not come out and say in public who the lender is who they made this process for to begin with but anyone doing any number of short sales can see the obvious connection with Bank of America telling us that they are automating their short sale process and also with us already being given files to place into this automated system.

The company called Equator says the key to a successful short sale are:

accessibility,

responsiveness,

communication,

fulfillment

Equator says that by large lenders using their new automated system that the homeowner will have 24/7 access to their file and will be able to directly upload required documentation. They will also be given real time updates electronically.

They claim their system will comply with all governmental regulations and compliance, quick fulfillment times, faster turnaround times and will automate the decision making process.

Now that all sounds great and dandy but whenever you take out the human factor of emotions, making exceptions and taking the negotiations to another level you are not going to get the same approval ratios.

One size does not fit all. I am seeing the writing on the wall. You have several problems with this system even before they implement it.

First, you have to get all the processors and negotiators trained on the system. We are getting files already in this system but the customer service people at BofA and the negotiators are not even trained yet in using the same system. So chalk that one up to the learning curve.

More importantly when everyone starts to depend on an automated system there is less room for the human decision making process like for exceptions to the rule. We can not even count the number of times that a file did not 'fit' the system but we got the short sale approved anyways. When people depend on an automated system they tend to answer, " that is the way it is," or "sorry, the system says they are not approved," etc.

While real estate agents are screaming to streamline the short sale process homeowners may be pushed into foreclosure rather than doing short sale work outs just because some system says they are not approved for a short sale.

So at the end of the day the result may be faster approval times but a higher rate of rejections.

Can Short Sales Really Be Automated Like Cookie Cutters- One Size Fits All? by Coach Katerina Gasset is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License

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Bonefish Grill Charlotte NC Restaurant Review

Tue, 24 Nov 2009 00:13:46 -0600

Bonefish Grill Charlotte NC Restaurant Review

Oh, the good times, great company, ambiance and the food is impeccable! Bonefish Grill in Charlotte NC is located at 7520 Pineville-Matthews Road near the intersection of Carmel Road. There is also one located in Matthews NC at 10056 E. Independence Blvd. near the Matthews-Township Parkway intersection.

Drinks first ! Try the Winter White Cosmo with Stoli Cranberi Vodka, Cointreau, fresh lime juice and white cranberry juice, topped with floating cranberries--oh so smooth and delicious!

The appetizers have always been a favorite at the Bonefish Grill. Give the Bang Bang Shrimp or the Ahi Tuna Sashimi--both just the perfect start to your dining experience at Bonefish Grill Charlotte NC !

For the main course, if you love lobster, you'll savor the Lobster Thermidor Dorado. This wood-grilled fish topped with sweet lobster and lump crab in a delectibly creamy sauce flavored with a hint of sherry--add the side of their famous garlic whipped potatoes for the perfect meal!

If you're not in the mood for seafood, you're sure to enjoy their Fontina Chop--this boneless pork chop is topped with Fontina cheese, garlic, prociutto and mushroom in a marsala wine sauce.

If you have room for dessert, you simply must try Bonfish Grill's Chocolate Creme Brulee! This popular decadent dessert could only be better if chocolate flavored--Wait! It IS! With the added hint of Grand Marnier, you'll end your perfect evening with the most mouth-watering dessert you've ever tasted!

And, the service--impeccable as well! Bonefish Grill in Charlotte NC gets 5 stars from this more-than-satisfied customer!

Housing Market Predictions: We've Heard Them All, Except the One That Matters ... Yours!

Sun, 22 Nov 2009 23:13:40 -0600

Act on fact, not fear. Consult your local real estate expert for the data that you need to guide you in your home-buying and home-selling process. Don't rely on national news and averages to guide you in making such an important financial decision; inaccurate data could will cost you in the long run.

Via Paul Slaybaugh, Scottsdale AZ Real Estate (Realty Executives):

Housing will not fully recover until 2012. That is when the glut of backlogged foreclosures is expected to be phased out of the market.

Housing will recover by the end of the year. Now that inventory has contracted to average levels for what constitutes “normal” regional markets in major metropolitan areas where prices have declined as much as 50% in the past three years, and month to month sales have steadily increased over the past six months, demand has realigned with supply to arrest the freefall in values.

The housing recovery began in early 2009. Median price increases in some markets indicate that even while many pundits were openly wondering when the bottom of the market would appear, it was actually several months in the rearview mirror.

Many factors and variables, and just as many divergent opinions to boot. So many, in fact, that you almost have to choose amongst the purported experts to determine whether you fall in the half empty or half full category. Job rates, interest rates, unemployment rates … psychiatric rates, for spending too much time poring over the data and extrapolations will render one in need of a head exam.

Overanalysis 101.

You don’t need flow charts to tell you where things stand at the moment. You won’t need a market report to tell you when things are better.

You’ll know the market has recovered when you no longer dread the trip to the mailbox or evening phone calls.

You’ll know the market has recovered when you can confidently re-enable automatic bill pay from your checking account instead of prioritizing which ones get paid this month by how far past due each is.

You’ll know that the market has recovered when you don’t have to decide whether you or a loved one is really ill enough to warrant the cost of a trip to the doctor.

You’ll know the market has recovered when you no longer have to explain to the kids why you can’t go to the zoo or stop for ice cream today.

You’ll know the market has recovered when sleep comes as readily as worry formerly did.

You can stop looking to someone else to tell you when the market is fully healed as the housing implosion is the root of these greater ails. It’s far easier to take stock of your own life, and those of your friends and family, to see where along its arc the pendulum is currently settled. As the finance/housing sector dragged our economy into the muck, it will again lead us back to dry ground. No need to watch the stars for celestial clues. Just do what no pundit can and watch your own life for improvement. You’ll know housing has recovered when both of your own feet are planted squarely on terra firma.

Most importantly, beware the forecasts that don’t jive with your own internal index. Those who would adamantly assert the rosiest or bleakest prognosis are likely more interested in influencing your behavior than in your well being.

“Buy now before prices shoot back up!”

“Sell now before prices erode further!”

When you stop listening to yourself, you risk placing all of your trust in the megaphones of those who have a vested interest in your fear.

Is the housing market improving? Is now the time to buy? The time to sell? For months, I have been asked to provide the answers to these questions. I have dutifully provided my vague predictions with the obligatory caveat that no one truly knows how a free market will behave from one day to the next. I realize, though, that in supplying answers to those who actually give the market context, that we have all been looking at this thing from the wrong perspective. It makes zero difference where I think the market stands at present, and where it is headed. The very consumers who ask me these questions are the ones who will ultimately provide the truth or fallacy to my various hypotheses. So I turn the tables and ask the consumer, the actual authority, the very same question.

“What is the state of the Real Estate market?”

Feel free to comment here or send me an email with your thoughts. Looking for opinions from consumers and laypersons, not agents or financial wizards (all comments welcome, though). I will post the results in a follow-up piece.

Mr. Homeowner & Mrs. Homebuyer, the floor is now yours.

Did Mortgage Brokers Cause The Economic Collapse?

Sun, 22 Nov 2009 18:42:03 -0600

There are far too many ethical agents, inspectors, attorneys, lenders and every other piece of the puzzle that goes hand in hand to get a home sold. There is no need to stick with someone who will either lead you down the wrong path or put themselves in jail!

It's all about ethics and integrity, people!

Via Nathan Giguere (Tutas Towne Realty, Inc.):

I don’t know, but wait until you hear this. A couple days ago I called a mortgage broker for my buyer to ask a question about a USDA loan. I just had a quick and easy question for the guy.

I asked him why the buyer qualified for a $120,000 USDA vs $80,000 FHA. And then BAM!!!! He hit me with a brick! "We need to get him in as expensive a house as we can, that way we get paid more…right? Hahaha". HOLY CRACK JACK, IS THIS GUY ON DRUGS? Smack me and I wouldn't have noticed. Is this guy serious?

I know mortgage brokers in general didn't cause our current situation. But I'm sure guys like this (Mister Snake Oil Salesman) didn’t help any. Unbelievable! With consumers already losing trust, how are we supposed to help them get back what they’ve lost with these kinds of people in our industry? What do you all think?

Image Courtesy of Yomanimus at Flickr

Is it Time for You to Raise YOUR Bar?

Sun, 22 Nov 2009 13:48:28 -0600

Demanding More of Yourself Than You Think You Can Give

In Stewart Emery's Mastery, the reminder to 'raise the bar' just when you think you're comfortable, reminds me of my high school and college basketball coaches' philosophies. I was far more sensitive when I was in high school than I am now and my coach yelling at me could reduce me to tears any day of the week! He demanded SO much of me and I SO wanted to please him and make him proud of my efforts and help bring the team to victory with each and every game--whether it be a scrimmage game or the real thing.

Folks, if this real estate market that we find ourselves in, isn't the 'real thing,' then I don't know what is! Although nowadays, there are times that I probably would like to cry, I push harder to meet the challange--there's no one else to push me! We all don't have our 'coach' to demand more of us, although even Olympic gold metalists have coaches, why don't we all have one? That's a whole other post! If you don't have a coach, remember that you are the driving force behind your business.

I think I read about 200 blog posts between last night and today, and alot of what I read were members venting frustration with situations that they found themselves in as it relates to their business. Here are just a few of the 'gripes' that I read in others' posts:

Agents loading photos in MLS--sideways
Agents boasting accolades about themselves, that are really not completely accurate
Lenders pressing agents to sell at the top of their clients' price point just to be able to line their pockets more
Listing agents not returning phone calls for WEEKS when buyers' agents are trying to help them sell their properties
Inspectors finding items that have been 'covered up' by the sellers and their agents

The list goes on and on but, the one thing that I observed that each of the writers had in common with their complaints, is that someone is basically, giving half of the effort on the other end of the transaction.

Now, more than ever before in our business, we must do a little soul searching and decide if we're truly cut out for this job. If we think we are cut out and ready for the challenge, then we MUST raise our own bar!

Are you providing the best service that you can to your clients.

If you're not returning phone calls to each and every agent or potential buyer and following up again, then commit to doing that.
If you're not giving 100%, then what's holding you back ?
If you're not sending your MLS listings to your sellers to preview them, double check the data and sign off on it, then do it !

If you're not going the extra mile to do due diligence for your buyers, then get to it !
If you're not giving yourself to your community in some way, shape or form, then get involved! The reward is 10-fold !
If you're not helping that new agent out in your office, why not? Karma...that's life !
If you're not supporting other Active Rain members, then step up and do so !

Only you can raise your own bar. If you're comfortable, your bar probably needs to be raised another notch! I promise, your business will grow by leaps and bounds if you're challanging yourself with each and every transaction and in each and every aspect of your life, each and every day.

Is it time for you to raise your bar?