Raleigh, Cary, Apex NC Real Estate Blog

Giorgios is coming to Cary in December!!

Sat, 05 Dec 2009 11:53:08 -0600

Have you wondered what in the world is going on in the former Jasper's & Chuck'Em sports eatery in Cary? I've seen quite a bit of construction work over there and have noticed the once tired restaurant has been transformed into a modern work of art! The secret is now out - Giorgios - the latest Mediteranean themed restaurant by George Bakatsias will soon be a showcase restaurant in Cary.

You may recognize George's name from one of his many successful restaurant ventures in Durham and Chapel Hill including Parizade, Vita, Nasher Museum Cafe and Vin Rouge in Durham and Bin 54 and Spice Street in Chapel Hill. Mr. Batikisis released a press release indicating "It is the melding of the traditions of European cultures, specifically those of Spain, Italy and Greece, and applying a contemporary approach, using fresh local ingredients and today's healthy sensibilities." I've long been a fan of Parizades and look forward to the evolution of dining the Cary area.

I noted the sign went up today and the restaurant is scheduled to Open on Friday December 18th. I'm planning on attending a closed preview event this Tuesday December 15th and will let you all know howe fabulous the event went!

We've certainly come a long way since Jaspers!!

Follow the opening of the restaurant on Twitter at: GiorgioCary

Cary Academy Holiday Shoppe Today 10am - 4pm!!

Sat, 05 Dec 2009 08:04:56 -0600

Are you looking for that perfect gift for the Holidays? Interested in unique gifts for family and friends? Today is the last day for shopping at the Cary Academy Holiday Shoppe at Cary Academy. This is the first year my daughter is away at college and won't be able to attend but I just had to stop by yesterday and pick up a few specialty items that will be cherished by my family and friends.

Each year the Cary Academy Holiday Shoppe has grown and there are now over 100 vendors participating in the event.

There are so many choices for unique gifts for friends and family including:

jewelry
home accessories
hostess items
children's items
holiday ornaments
apparel
food
handmade crafts

What: Cary Academy Holilday Shoppe

When: Each year the 1st week in December

Hours: Today 10am until 4pm

This is a great time to spend time indoors with the cold and rainy weather.

I know everyone's budgets are tight this year so keep this in mind also. Since this event is a non-profit fundraiser, there is no tax charged on Holiday Shoppe purchases! Proceeds from the event go to community outreach and need-based scholarships.

Fonville Morisey rolls out mobile application for Buyers – Smarter Agent

Wed, 02 Dec 2009 16:58:15 -0600

Everyone in the industry has heard the buzz about the new wireless applications that are coming to the real estate market and a select few of them have finally arrived that will blow you away if you are looking for a home in the near future.

Since I'm considered to be a "techy agent", I'm always looking for tools for my buyers that are "cutting edge" that will provide them with the latest and greatest information on homes for sale in the area as well as where these homes are located. I first started with Text Riders that deliver mobile descriptions & pricing of properties in lieu of killing trees with the flyers at my homes for sale.

I'm now incredibly excited that my brokerage firm, Fonville Morisey, is rolling out a new mobile application for smart phones that has a number of components, not just an IDX search engine, called Smarter Agent, that supports a number of smart devices including Blackberry, Samsung, and iPhones as well as GPS Ge-location for homes for sale. Buyers are looking for one location that they can search for homes and determine where they are located and Smarter Agent is the application that delivers.

As a top Fonville Morisey Buyers Agent I look forward to sharing with you the tool that I use with my clients to provide them with an exceptional level of service.

Click here to download the application and begin browsing for homes in your area with maps that include geo-locations for all properties searched or text FMR to 87778!

Related Posts:

Selling Your Home in a Buyer's Market

Listings & My Commitment to Internet Marketing

Why choose Fonville Morisey for your next Realtor® in the Triangle Area?

Wordless Wednesday -Lake Johnson in Raleigh

Wed, 02 Dec 2009 11:43:47 -0600

One of the things I love about the Triangle area is access to the many jogging and biking trails in the area as well as the lake jogging trails. I've been trying to get back into my jogging routine and have now started bringing my camera with me to depict some of the fantastic resources available in the Triangle area. This is a shot early in the morning at Lake Johnson in Raleigh.

The park at Lake Johnson has a 3 mile paved trail and a 1.9 mile unpaived trail. I personally like to stick to the paved trail but that's just a personal opinion. This park does have two really steep hills so beware if you aren't used to running hills!!! If you are into fishing and boating there is a 150 Acre lake as well!!

I hope to see you there soon!

I-540 Triangle Expressway Information Session - Tomorrow 4pm-7pm

Wed, 02 Dec 2009 11:26:10 -0600

If you are interested in learning more about the I-540 Triangle Expressway Tollway expansion there will be an informational session held by the North Carolina Department of Transportation tomorrow! Don't miss this informative event!!

Where: Halle Cultural Arts Center - 237 N. Salem Street in Apex

When: December 3rd 4pm-7pm

What: Project Plans, Conceptual Renderings, Tolling Animation, Design Plans, Use of technology

This is a tremendous opportunity for future growth around the Apex, Holly Springs,and Fuquay Varina areas in carrying traffic efficiently into RTP and is a $600M stimulus package into the economy with the construction jobs.

The I-540 Triangle Expressway will create a new era in transportation using technology to move motorists throughout the triangle. How exciting!!!

I hope to see you there!

Try Southern Season's Cooking School in Chapel Hill

Wed, 02 Dec 2009 10:19:56 -0600

Recently I had an opportunity to combine two of my favorite things to do in the Triangle. A friend of mine, who used to be a former chef, invited me to Southern Season's Cooking School in Chapel Hill. In the past I have written about my fondness for Southern Season, especially during the holilday season with their many basket choices, wine selection, and decorating ideas! That said, my favorite Italian restaurant in Raleigh is Vivace and the head Chef Jeremy Sabo happened to be the featured chef for the evening so I knew I couldn't miss seeing Jeremy cook a few of his culinary masterpieces!

Our menu for the evening included:

Grana Padano Angolotti- This is one of Jeremy's signature home-made pastas that they serve at Vivace as a primi, or 1st course. Jeremy showed us how he creates these mini masterpieces by delicately rolling out the pasta and tucking the edges together for a delicious tasting!

Seared Black Sea Bass -

Orange Semolina Cake

Italian White Wine

I had a delightful visit with my friend and enjoying evening at the Triangle's premier cooking school! Vivace is regularly touted as one of the Top 20 Restaurants in the Triangle and Jeremy Sabo as one of the leading chefs in the area.

Related Posts:

Things to Do in Chapel Hill

Things to Do with the Kids in the in Triangle

Top 5 Things to Do in the Triangle Area of North Carolina

Triangle Guide to Fun - Arts, Activities, Concerts, Plays, Parks and More

Fall Scene at Bond Park in Cary this morning!!

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 16:33:35 -0600

What a beautiful scene this morning in Bond Park in Cary, NC. I grew up in Texas and truly didn't appreciate the four seasons. Fall in the Triangle area is one of the most beautiful times of the year. The leaves are falling and there is plenty to do at one of the many parks and trails surrounding the Raleigh Cary area. I live less than a mile from Bond Park in Cary, NC so I try to make the most of my visits when the weather is cooler and the leaves are turning!

Have fun on this Wordless Wednesday!

Things to do in Cary NC

Cary NC Real Estate --->Why I love Cary NC!

Things to do with kids in the Triangle

La Farm Bakery & Cafe in Cary - A truly authentic French Cafe

Tue, 22 Sep 2009 17:50:07 -0500

Last year I moved from Apex to a great new location in Cary NC. One of the things I love about where I live now is the proximity to great restaurants, shops, and other local businesses.

One of my favorite treats is the addition of the café to La Farm Bakery in Cary. In the past La Farm has cooked up the best French bread in Cary bar none!!! The proprietors, Missy & Lionel Vatinet, have had the long-term vision of expanding the Bakery and operating an authentic French Café which they did earlier this year. There are so many things to cherish at La Farm including their signature sourdough whole grain bread, classic baguettes, pastries, fresh homemade granola, and much more. There are usually samples available when you enter. My favorite during lunch are the freshly made Tartines . I also enjoy going for brunch on Sunday before heading out with clients.

Mauro and I are big fans of the European dining experience which has truly been captured at La Farm Bakery & Café. So, if you're out and about and want a real treat choose La Farm Bakery & Café in Cary!

Cary NC Luxury Market Report -2009 YTD

Sat, 19 Sep 2009 18:19:12 -0500

I'm in the process of putting together some detailed information for my neighborhood newsletter and I thought this would be a good opportunity to discuss the Cary NC Luxury Real Estate market in 2009. I'm asked on a regular basis how the market is holding up in our area and the answer can be quite different depending on the price points. The Cary NC Real Estate market has held up quite well relative to the rest of the country. In fact, the Raleigh Cary MSA is regularly touted as one of the top 2 strongest in the country along with Austin TX.

The one recurring theme that I've noticed with listing and selling homes in this price range in Cary is that, although the numbers are still strong for sales above $500k, new construction seems to be garnering a large proportion of the luxury home segment. Year-to-date in Cary there have been 151 home sales for detached homes above $500k, 91 of those homes (60%) were new construction.

The Triangle Real Estate Market is off close to 40% this year from last year so I thought it also might be interesting to analyze how the Cary NC Luxury Real Estate market's sales are in 2009 vs. 2008. As I mentioned above there have been 151 luxury home sales in Cary in 2009 YTD so I also wanted to pull the details on the Luxury Home Sales from 1/1/2008 -9/19/08. There were 238 in 2008, which represents a 36% decline. The logical conclusion is that Cary Luxury Home Sales are holding up quite well.

In Cary there are a couple of other elements at play which I have mentioned in previous reports. In the past homes in established neighborhoods like MacGregor Downs and Preston sold incredibly well because the neighborhoods were well established and had golf course views lending homebuyers the highly desired country club lifestyle. Another trend that is blindingly clear - builders are no longer are no longer touting the phrase "build it and they will come". Custom Builders in this area have taken a beating and overbuilt for the growth. We are slowly churning through the existing specs which will soon be gone. As a result, builders will not be doing the wheeling and dealing we have seen in the area this years on the existing homes.

For the sake of this analysis I'm going to break down the homes into four price points:

$500,000-$700,000
$700,000-$800,000
$800,000-$1M
$1M-$2M+ and $2M+

All figures are bases on numbers pulled today September 19th and are from the Triangle MLS:

Here are a few observations that relate back to my comments above:

The average price/square foot for Cary's Luxury homes is $150/square foot and $170/square foot above $700k which is quite lower than laste years $197/square foot but sill less expensive than homes in other popular Luxury Home communities in the Triangle
Top Selling established neighborhoods include Preston w/12 Sales, MacGregor with 6 Sales, Lochmere w/5 sales, and Wyndfall w/6.
New construction neighborhoods selling briskly include Copperleaf, Southbridge at Cary Park, Hillard Forest, and Green Level Crossing
In the $700k-$800k price range there are 5 pending, 2 in Lochmere, 2 in Wyndfall, and my listing in Glenkirk.
In 2008 there were 17 homes that sold between $1M-$2M. This year there have been 24, however only 1 resale in this price range.
Last year there were 28 homes on the market over $1M. Today there are just 12 and no increase in sales which indicates a number of sellers have taken their homes off the market until the market improves.
Supply on Market climbs as the price point increases.

If you have any questions regarding this report or would like more information on the Cary NC Luxury Home Market please feel free to email me or visit my website for more information.

For more information:

2008 Cary NC Luxury Home Market Report

Immaculate Home w/all the Upgrades in Heritage Pines

Sun, 30 Aug 2009 09:43:08 -0500

Links

417 Knotts Valley Virtual Tour

Photo Gallery

Breakfast Area w/Bay WIndow	Gourmet Kitchen	Formal Dining Room
Great Room w/Gas Fireplace	Spacious Master Suite	Low Maintenance Koi Pond

Description

Live the lifestyle at Cary's Finest Active 55 Community! Don't miss this immaculate home on a quiet cul-de-sac located in Cary's own Heritage Pines Active 55 community. The beautiful low-maintenance landscaping & koi pond are located on a private wooded lot! Updated fixtures,SS Appliances,HW throughout, smooth ceiling! Oversized deck, gourmet kitchen,Fantastic location convenient to shopping, medical, & Sr. Center.

Features

Bedrooms:	3
Bathrooms:	3
Parking Spaces:	2
Year Built:	2002
Subdivision:	Heritage Pines
Lot Size:	.18
Garage Size:	2
School District:	Green Hope
Square Footage:	2577
Agent Name:	Tracy Santrock
Broker:	Fonville Morisey
MLS #:	1682723

Location

417 Knotts Valley Cary NC 27519

vFlyer Id: 2733793

New Changes Proposed for the Busiest Intersection in Cary

Wed, 12 Aug 2009 08:38:55 -0500

Most of you know that I live right off of Cary Parkway. Right down the street from my home is one of the busiest intersections in the Town of Cary at High House and Cary Parkway. That said, this intersection has also been the cause for concern:

It has the highest rate of accidents for all of Cary Pkwy

The accident rate is 2x the state average

There were 67 accidents at the intersection between 2005 and 2008, almost half involved left turns

Based on 2020 traffic projections, the intersection will have something on the order of an 8 minute wait time during peak hours

The Town if trying to determine a better way to route the traffic in order to reduce accidents and eliminate wait time. The current idea on the table seems propostorous in my opionion. Basically, the idea would be to use the Jersey Mike's parking lot access road to divert traffic.

I personally think this solution would detract from the overall appearance of the Town of Cary just to eliminate a "cheap" solution to the problem.

On the other hand, I like the idea of traffic circles. What do you think the Town of Cary should do about the bottleneck at High House/Cary Parkway?

104 Rosaler Court - Live the Lifestyle You Dreamed of In Preston Village!

Sun, 09 Aug 2009 11:54:13 -0500

Photo Gallery

Photos of the updated kitchen coming soon! The breakfast area features a great view of the backyard and is also light and bright!	One of the few 1st Floor Master Suites in Preston Village features a bay window, new carpet, and a fresh neutral tone!	Walk into a luxurious Master Bathroom that features a whirlpool jaccuzzi, separate shower, and dual sinks. Walk past the shower to the large Walk-In Closet!
Warm hardwood flooring, wainscoating, and trey ceilling are some of the features of the dining room	Entertain in style on the large 12'x29' deck

Description

Immaculate Brick-Front home in Prestigous Preston Village! Open floor plan features dramatic great room w/built-ins. Updated kitchen icludes 42" Maple Cabinets, granite, tile backsplash. Large 1st Fl MSTR w/WIC, Fresh new paint, carpet, & beautiful landscaping too! A must see!

Features

Bedrooms:	4
Bathrooms:	3.5
Parking Spaces:	2
Year Built:	1998
Subdivision:	Preston Village
Lot Size:	.36
Garage Size:	2
School District:	Green Hope
Square Footage:	3181
Agent Name:	Tracy Santrock
Broker:	Fonville Morisey
MLS #:	1679182

Location

104 Rosaler Court Cary NC 27519

vFlyer Id: 2704124

New Listing in Bishop's Gate in Cary - 822 City Walls

Mon, 20 Jul 2009 23:54:25 -0500

Photo Gallery

Description

Beautifully appointed brick & Stone home in Bishops Gate that shows like a model! This home features a fabulously appointed gourmet kitchen which is a chef’s dream w/custom cabinets, granite countertops, designer travertine stone backsplash, Lg. island w/veg sink, built-in sub-zero refrigerator, SS oven/mw combo, 5 burner gas cooktop w/chef style vent, high-end SS dishwasher, and wine cooler! The Master Suite adorns a double trey ceiling w/sitting area complimented by the luxury bath w/ tiled shower, and WIC! The spacious deck, outdoor grill, and hottub are great for entertaining!The neighborhood itself features walking trails and a community pool! Don’t miss this fabulous find!

Features

Bedrooms:	4
Bathrooms:	3
Parking Spaces:	2
Year Built:	2006
Subdivision:	Bishops Gate
Lot Size:	0.26
Garage Size:	2
School District:	Apex
Square Footage:	4510
Agent Name:	Tracy Santrock
Broker:	Fonville Morisey
MLS #:	1675835

Location

822 City Walls Cary NC 27519

vFlyer Id: 2644587

Fabulous Home Backing to the Greenway in Park Village

Fri, 19 Jun 2009 13:45:57 -0500

Photo Gallery

Vaulted ceilings, gleaming new hardwood floors throughout, and warm gas fireplace compliment the grand family room overlooking the wooded backyard!	Spacious kitchen features an oversized sink, electric range, built-in microwave, and tiled flooring throughout!	Enjoy entertaining in the dining room featuring updated rubbed bronze lighting, new hardwood floors,
Master Bedroom has new carpet, vaulted ceilings ceiing fan, and a fresh neutral tone throughout!

Description

Beautiful home located on a premium lot with a FLAT backyard backing to the greenway w/ALL the updates! Entertain your friends in the dining room w/doors that overlook the large custom built deck. Vaulted Great Room/Master. Real hardwoods & tile throughout the home. Renovated 2nd Bath! New Tankless Water Heater!!This home is must see in Park Village!

Features

Bedrooms:	3
Bathrooms:	2.5
Parking Spaces:	1
Year Built:	1995
Subdivision:	Park Village
Lot Size:	.12
Garage Size:	1
School District:	Apex
Square Footage:	1667
Agent Name:	Tracy Santrock
Broker:	Fonville Morisey
MLS #:	1670253

Location

103 Trent Woods Way Cary NC 27519

vFlyer Id: 2595875

Charming Craftsman Style Home in Cary Park!

Sat, 16 May 2009 16:28:44 -0500

Photo Gallery

Everytime you drive up you'll appreciate the curb appeal and charm of this beautifully appointed Craftsman Style home in Cary Park!	The spectacular oversized wraparound porch offers a wonderful use of space and is a great compliment to the craftsman style architecture!	The Gourmet kitchen features all the bells and whistles including 42" maple cabinets, oversized island, ubba tubba granite counterstops, tile backsplash, brushed nickel knobs, gas range, double oven, and gleaming hardwood floors!
The spacious great room with vaulted ceiling features a gas fireplace with granite surround, ceiling fan, and is open to the 2nd floor catwalk!	Oversized Master Suite is complimented by the separate sitting room, neutral tones, ceiling fan, and exceptional crown molding.	Luxurious Glamour Bath features a large walk-in closet
This home is one of the few homes that backs to the woods and a protected area in Cary Park!	Cary Park has a private club available for use by Cary Park residents. A gathering spot for the community, it offers children

Description

Don’t miss an opportunity to own this beautiful craftsman home in Cary Park that shows like a model!! Fabulous curb appeal features an inviting wraparound porch & beautiful landscaping! Gourmet kitchen includes Granite Countertops, gas cooktop, double oven, large island, tile backsplash & comfortable breakfast area. You'll enjoy entertaining in the elegant dining room with wainscoting & butler's pantry. Beautiful hardwoods throughout the 1st Floor. Luxury Master Suite includes sitting room and dramatic spa bath. 1t floor guest suite is great when the in-laws visit! Large bonus room is perfect for the whole family!! One of the few lots in Cary Park backing to the woods! The community itself has beautiful walking trails, community pool, shopping, and schools located in the neighborhood!!

Features

Bedrooms:	5
Bathrooms:	3
Parking Spaces:	2
Year Built:	2004
Subdivision:	Cary Park
Lot Size:	.21
Garage Size:	2
School District:	Panther Creek
Square Footage:	3700
Agent Name:	Tracy Santrock
Broker:	Fonville Morisey

Location

1011 Grogans Mill Cary NC 27519

vFlyer Id: 2503316

Pristine Starter Home w/all the updates in Park Village!

Wed, 29 Apr 2009 07:57:18 -0500

Photo Gallery

Vaulted ceilings compliment the gas fireplace in the living room!	Breakfast area has french doors leading to the spacious deck!	Updated kitchen includes tile backsplash and corian countertops
Wow! Completely redone Master Bath - new countertops, fixtures, and sinks!	Spacious deck overlooks the fenced backyard	Park Village includes numerous amenities - community pool, playground, walking trails and is convenient to soccer, cary parks, and area shopping!

Description

Must See! Beautifully updated home in Park Village! Kitchen highlights include corian countertops, tile flooring, and travertine backsplash! Sip your tea and catch up on reading in the breakfast area w/french doors that overlook the spacious deck & fenced backyard. Bathrooms include new countertops, hardware, & fixtures. Vaulted living room features fresh new carpet, neutral tones, and a gas fireplace. The neighborhood offers jogging trails, pool, clubhouse, neighborhood pond, and playground.

Features

Bedrooms:	3
Bathrooms:	2.5
Parking Spaces:	1
Year Built:	1996
Subdivision:	Park Village
Lot Size:	0.13
Garage Size:	1
School District:	Apex
Square Footage:	1340
Agent Name:	Tracy Santrock
Broker:	Fonville Morisey

Location

108 Trent Woods Way Cary NC 27519

vFlyer Id: 2456565

Changes to Morrisville Carpenter Begin This Saturday April 25th

Mon, 20 Apr 2009 15:05:33 -0500

Have you ever been stuck in traffic at the bottleneck at Morrisville Carpenter and HWY 54 in Morrisville? I know I have many times over the past 10 years. However, the long awaited $3.4 Million expansion has finally arrived. Beginning Saturday April 25^th Morrisville Carpenter Road will be closed from Church Street to NC 54 from four to six weeks to finalize the expansion. It certainly will cause numerous traffic problems around the area until the expansion is complete. However, the expansion has been long overdue.

Even though these roads are owned by the State, the Town of Morrisville passed the bond due to the importance of this heavily traveled corridor.

Click here to see a map of the planned changes. Click here for a detour map. The road expansions throughout Cary and Morrisville have made a big change to the traffic flow and this expansion will also make a big difference.

Related Post:

Town of Cary Expansion Update

Carpenter Village - The location, convenience, and amenities are unbeatable!

Thu, 02 Apr 2009 21:48:38 -0500

City: Cary

Location: Between Davis Drive and HWY 55 off of Morrisville Carpenter.

Carpenter Village is located in Cary, North Carolina on Morrisville Carpenter Road just west of the intersection of Davis Drive and Morrisville Carpenter Road. Carpenter Village is one of the closest Cary neighborhoods to RTP.

Neighborhood Facts:

Price range is from the low $200s -$800s
Located in the fast growing Northwest Cary area.
Several options from Townhomes to Estate Homes

Sections within Carpenter Village:

Estate Homes suited to grand entertaining and comfortable family living, situated on large homesites, offering 3 car garages and many with lake views.

Executive Homes These custom homes feature solid surface counter tops, spacious living and entertaining areas and 2-car garages, many with ally-way access.

Neighborhood homes are classical single family homes with grand gables, copper roofs protecting bay windows, classical pediments enhanced with dentils, elliptical fan lights and square mullioned transoms.

Charleston Homes are historically inspired, southern styled row homes, with verandahs, balconies, piazzas, and garages discretely tucked away and entered from the rear of the home. Several of the Charleston Homes have wrap around porches.

Carpenter Village Townhomes

Executive Townhomes have were built 2000 and later, have brick front elevations, and have lots of light, open, flowing, floor plans and generous storage space.
Custom built townhomes by Impact Design-Build priced from the $170s with 2-Car Garages.

Legacy at Carpenter Village. Newest section of Carpenter Village North of Morrisville Carpenter Road. Legacy at Carpenter Village offers a nostalgic streetscape of innovative townhomes and single-family homes.

Builder Team in Carpenter Village:

Amward Homes
Cattano Construction, Inc.
Impact Design-Build
JamesTowne Homes
Richard Gaylord Homes
Upright Builders
Upton Construction
Wardson Construction

Key Neighborhood Highlights:

The Village Market Place

The Village MarketPlace as a variety of merchants and services, all available within walking distance of the homes. Some of the merchants include a dry cleaners, day care, salon, and music school. In 2007 another building will be built with additional merchants to come.

Lake & Walking Trails

Carpenter Lake is a beautiful 22 acre lake with mature trees lining much of the shore. A canoe or small sailboat would be a perfect way to spend a mid summers day on the lake. Carpenter Lake offers walking trails that meander through the trees, along the shore line. The path is wide and paved and very inviting for an after dinner stroll.

Playgrounds

The children's playgrounds are conveniently just a stroll away. Parents and children walk to the playground and enjoy the swings, slide and ladders.

Tennis and Volleyball

Tennis and Volleyball are part of the recreation area and can be utilized by all Carpenter Village residents.

Carpenter Elementary School

This is the neighborhood Elementary School which opened its doors in the fall of 2006. Carpenter Elementary School was recently recognized by the state as a School of Excellence for exceeding all educational goals for the year.

Western Wake Regional Library

Cary's newest library, which opened in the Fall of 2006, is located within walking distance of Carpenter Village. The new library features 70 public computers, WiFi Internet access, conference room, six service desks, a drive-up book drop, study rooms, and a multipurpose room for kids' and adults' events. The library is situated with a view to a community lake. There are also many nearby walking and biking trails.

This community was developed by the same award-winning team that is now building in Falls River in N Raleigh, Westin Oaks in Cary, and soon to be building in 12 Oaks in Holly Springs.

To view listings on Carpenter Village click here.

For more information go to the Carpenter Village website or contact me directly for this neighborhood.

Preston Village in Cary- A community to live, work, play, grow and love

Thu, 02 Apr 2009 16:18:09 -0500

VideoAd by Mixpo

In 2007 I wrote a post about the Preston neighborhoods in Cary. Since I just listed a property in Preston Village and I work out of the Preston Fonville Morisey office, I thought I'd write about this wonderful section within Preston.

Preston Village is a neighborhood section of executive homes that is a part of Preston, a country club community in Cary, NC. Preston Village is located just off of Davis Drive between High House Road and Morrisville Parkway. One of the big selling points of this neighborhood is the location! Preston Village is just a short 10 minutes to Research Triangle Park (RTP) and the RDU Airport!!

Preston Village was developed in the mid 1990s and included a strong builder team:

Toll Brothers,
John Wieland Homes
Sunstar Homes
the last few lots were built by local custom builders

Other Details:

Price Range: $500k-$700k
HoA Dues: $420/Year

Amenities

Neighborhood amenities include a playground, a lake with a gazebo over the water, and sidewalks. There is also a Circle on the Green. This is a large area where various community functions are held.

Pool and tennis are currently not included in HOA dues. However, the neighborhood HOA is taking a vote this month on weather or not to takeover the swimming pool and convert it into a neighborhood pool. For more information on joining the country club go to Prestonwood's website at Prestonwood Country Club. I am also a member so feel free to shoot me an email if you have any questions on the memberships.

Schools

Wake County is known for some of the best public schools in the country and the schools for this neighborhood are traditionally ranked at the top. For more information visit Wake County Public Schools website. The current assignments as of this printing are:

Green Hope Elementary
Davis Drive Middle School
Green Hope High School

Don't miss out on an opportunity to live in this wonderful community! If you are looking for a luxury home in an excellent location then Preston Village's can't be beat! Just minutes to Stone Creek Shopping Center, Prestonwood Country Club and even close proximity to RTP and the airport. To view homes for sale in Preston click here or send me a quick email for more information!

Former Toll Brothers Model in Preston Village For Sale

Thu, 02 Apr 2009 14:11:50 -0500

Photo Gallery

Description

Prepare meals like a pro at the work island in the kitchen of this brick-front 2-story 4-bedroom/3.5-bath home on .35 acres in Preston Village. Offers a relaxing living room with hardwood floors, distinctive dining room, formal library w/built-ins, master suite w/ linen closet, dual sinks, and an exceptional sunroom w/skylights that overlooks the wooded backyard! All this and just a short drive to Stone Creek Shopping Center and Green Hope!

Features

Bedrooms:	4
Bathrooms:	3.5
Parking Spaces:	3
Year Built:	2000
Subdivision:	Preston Village
Lot Size:	0.35
Garage Size:	3
School District:	Green Hope
Square Footage:	3718
Agent Name:	Tracy Santrock
Broker:	Fonville Morisey
MLS #:	1656318

Location

400 Preston Village Way Cary NC 27519

vFlyer Id: 2393368

505 Hunter Street - The Home To Own in Historic Apex NC

Thu, 02 Apr 2009 10:29:22 -0500

Photo Gallery

Gourmet Kitchen	Great Room	Game Room
Media Room	View of the backyard in the spring time!

Description

Rare opportunity to own this beautiful Victorian home located on 1.275 Acres w/n walking distance to historic downtown Apex!! Spectacular curb appeal & professional landscaping compliment the unique architecture, circular drive, and inviting wrap around porch. Gourmet kitchen, 1st fl Master, 2 story fam room, large deck, stone patio, outdoor jaccuzzi, & gazebo! A must see!

Features

Bedrooms:	5
Bathrooms:	3.5
Parking Spaces:	3
Year Built:	2000
Subdivision:	N/A
Lot Size:	1.28
Garage Size:	3
School District:	Apex
Square Footage:	4196
Agent Name:	Tracy Santrock
Broker:	Fonville Morisey
MLS #:	1656176

Location

505 Hunter Street Apex NC 27502

vFlyer Id: 2388546

2009 Best Place for Business and Careers - Triangle Region #1

Fri, 27 Mar 2009 13:06:01 -0500

The Triangle Does it Again! In the past the Triangle Area has been fortunate to be one of the Best Places to Live and a media darling! With the economy slowing and unemployment rising there has been concern that our red hot economy will start to slow down. Don't get me wrong, employment in the Triangle is expected to decline with recent layoffs by IBM, Nortel, and other top companies.

The good news - In an announcment by Forbes this week they have chosen the Triangle Region as the Best Place for Business and Careers. This year is actually the 3rd year in a row that our region has topped the list!

There are a number of reasons economists are predicting that the Triangle will be virtually untouched by the recession:

-Past and future job growth
-Low business costs
-Reasonable cost of living
-Highly educated work force

I'm personally feel lucky to live in the Triangle. We are very fortunate to live in an area that continues to thrive.

Raleigh NC Real Estate>> Why is the Triangle on Top?

Apex, NC & Holly Springs, NC Make Money Magazines 2007 Best Place to Live

Best Place to Live in the US - Raleigh, NC

Raleigh Ranked #1 by Forbes Magazine for Best Cities for Jobs

Best Place to Live for Retires in 2006 -Raleigh, NC #4 and #3 Best Place to Reinvent You Life

I've finally finished my CRS Designation

Sat, 07 Mar 2009 07:39:45 -0600

Last year I set out to complete my CRS Designation. Meeting the requirements to become a Certified Residential Specialist in the field of REAL ESTATE is not an easy task, but definitely achievable. Now that I am through with my classes I will still continue to take the CRS Courses. They are absolutely fantastic!!

Before attending my final class I googled the instructors name here on Active Rain and found out Jackie Leavenworth is a real pro!

After two fantastic days in her classroom, now I know why! She is a funny, energetic, well rounded and experienced REALTOR. From the class LISTING STRATEGIES for the RESIDENTIAL SPECIALIST, she taught practical and up to date techniques for Listing and Selling Homes in today's Turbulant Market.

Here is a quick video I took when we were discussing defending our commission with Sellers. Jackie says we all have "inner Parrots" that talk to us and she was trying to make sure that we quiet our inner parrots. It was absolutely hysterical!

I plan to implement several Strategies into our current Marketing Plan that will benefit my clients including the shopping cart, QMA, and other ideas. Coach Jackie calls them "Jackieisms".

I encourage you to consider furthering your education in the field of REAL ESTATE - check out the CRS Class offerings and especially classes taught by Coach Jackie !

The most coveted and highest professional designation awarded to REALTORS in the residential sales field.

LESS THAN 4 % of all REALTORS hold the CRS Designation !

Now I'm off to Facebook to post a testimonial on Jackie's wall!!

Fabulous Home in Prized Park Village

Sun, 22 Feb 2009 08:58:55 -0600

Photo Gallery

Great Room	Kitchen	Dining Room
Wooded Fenced Yard	Summertime at Park Village features blooming Crepe Myrtles and a wonderful view of the neighborhood pond!	Park Village Swimming Pool

Description

Fantastic Home w/Premium Lot backing to the woods in Desireable Park Village! Home features brick entrance & dramatic two-story Family Room w/FP. Frest new carpet througout & brushed nickel fixtures. Open kitchen leads to dining room & spacious fenced backyard. Vaulted MBR w/w-i closet & vanity area. Community pool, trails, playground, ponds, & city park are all within walking distance.

Features

Bedrooms:	3
Bathrooms:	2.5
Parking Spaces:	1
Year Built:	1997
Subdivision:	Park Village
Lot Size:	.19
Garage Size:	1
School District:	Apex
Square Footage:	1678
Agent Name:	Tracy Santrock
Broker:	Fonville Morisey
MLS #:	1648991

Location

105 Union Mills Way Cary NC 27519

vFlyer Id: 2283237

Your kids can walk to Weatherstone Elementary from this beautiful home w/a fabulous pool!!

Fri, 13 Feb 2009 16:22:24 -0600

Photo Gallery

Kitchen	Dining Room	Master Bedroom
Living Room	Bonus Room	Family Room/Office
Bedroom

Description

Kids Walk to School!! Comfortable living describes this immaculate 4BR home on a quiet cul-de-sac in Weatherstone. Gourmet kitchen includes solid surface countertops/travertine backsplash,island, walk-in pantry & top-of-the line SS appliances. Hardwoods on most of the main floor. Dual Staircase. Exceptional trim detail. Relax in style on your deck while enjoying the beautifully landscaped backyard & your very own private pool!!

Features

Bedrooms:	4
Bathrooms:	3
Parking Spaces:	2
Year Built:	1997
Subdivision:	Weatherstone
Lot Size:	.39
Garage Size:	2
School District:	Green Hope
Square Footage:	3289
Agent Name:	Tracy Santrock
Broker:	Fonville Morisey
MLS #:	1647920

Location

208 Calm Winds Court Cary NC 27513

vFlyer Id: 2273369