Sonja Babic New Bern NC's Blog

Hello - is anybody there?

Sonja Babic/Prudential Clear Water Realty New Bern NC — Thu, 12 Nov 2009 20:18:41 -0600

Via Craig Bland (Brand Mortgage ):

I was talking to a Realtor that works for Keller Williams a while back. She was super excited to be with them because of how innovative they are. One of the things she pointed out was that they offer coaching. Their coaching is a little different with respect to how they get paid - the coach gets 10% of every closing. Personally I think that’s pretty cool seeing how the coach’s pay is directly connected to the results of the person being coached.

So I asked her what the coach did for her. I’ll make it short and sweet for you – even with all the technical innovations that are out there, the coach hammered her on “making her calls”. It’s so interesting to me to make note of how sales has really never changed over the ages. I read sales books almost every day, and I can tell you, it’s all about relationships and personal contact – that’s it. The other thing that’s interesting to me is that in my 7 years in the mortgage sales industry and sales carreers prior to that, I’ve found that “personal contact” through “making calls” is the number one thing that salespeople don’t want to do – weird.

So all the sales greats say that we should make our calls and most of the salespeople in the world don’t do it. Why? This doesn’t make any sense. Are all the sales teachers and coaches in the world wrong and all of the salespeople right? Nope. Based on my personal experience all of the coaches and teachers are 100% correct. I remember back in 2005 I decided to employ the services of a coach.

My coach had one thing in mind for me – make my calls (go figure). The difference between me and most others is that I did it. I wanted to see if there would actually be an increase in my business, so no matter how uncomfortable I felt about it, I picked up that phone and dialed. I was making at least five calls a day for several months and tracking it. The first thing I discovered is that literally everyone that I spoke to was very happy to hear from me – everyone. No one was mad or irritated, they were genuinely glad to speak with me – weird.

The next thing I discovered was heartbreaking to me. Within my first 50 calls or so, I realized that I had LOST about six deals within about a four month period from the people in my database. These are my past clients, family and friends here. Keep in mind, that although I wasn’t a “phone caller” I was very consistent with monthly mailers to stay in touch, and yet I still lost deals to my competitors. Another startling discovery was the consistent responses from the people that “left me for someone else”. I asked every one of them “why didn’t you give me a call? Have you been receiving my mailers?” Their response was always something like “yeah, wow, I’m sorry. I should have called you but “I was TALKING to this guy” and one thing led to another”. Hmmm.. “Talking” to this guy? Newsflash people – if you think for a second that your past clients, family and friends are 100% loyal to you even if you don’t make your calls – you’re simply being foolish.

The results were staggering. During one of the most difficult times to generate business in our industry, I was originating and closing about six deals consistently every single month. Now I know these numbers may not seem like much to some, but at that time in that market I was one of the top producers in my office and I was managing it. I was watching good loan officer’s drop like flies around me as the market caved in around us and I was closing deals. I did my best to coach them by encouraging them to make their calls. I would show them my results as well, but mostly to no avail. Only a few took heed to what I was doing, and guess what? They are still in the business to this day. All of the others fell away to leave the industry completely, why? Because they didn’t have the guts to pick up the phone and simply “talk” to their past clients, family and friends and ask them for a referral – how sad is that?

Make your calls and have an awesome day.

Craig Bland

Brand Mortgage

$8,000 Tax Credit Extension and Expansion Coming!

Sonja Babic/Prudential Clear Water Realty New Bern NC — Sat, 07 Nov 2009 15:40:17 -0600

Via Cynthia Tilghman, Realtor® Onslow County NC Home Specialist (Kingsbridge Realty, Inc):

According to various news reports, the Congress has reached a tentative agreement to extend and perhaps expand the $8,000 tax credit.

The details reported:

1. The $8,000 tax credit extension would cover first-time home buyers who sign a contract for a home by the end of April and close by the end of June.

2. Create a $6,500 tax credit for those who buy a home, but have owned a home for at least five consecutive years out of the past eight years.

3. The income limit would be raised to $125,000 a year for individuals and $225,000 for married couples.

All is contigent on the approval House and signed by the President.

For more information:

Senate Likely to Extend Tax Credit

Capitol Briefing -Senate Passes Bill to Extend Tax Credit

If you have been waiting or thought you had missed the boat -- it looks like you have a second chance.

Call me and let's get the ball rolling for your new home in Hubert, Swansboro, Jacksonville in Onslow County NC.

Cynthia Tilghman, Realtor, Onslow County Home Specialist 910 459 9189 Email Me

Kingsbridge Realty, Inc., Making Houses Homes

We take pride in assisting Military Families locate a home in Onslow County when relocating to Camp Lejeune North Carolina

Area expert for homes in Hubert North Carolina

Search the Jacksonville NC MLS

Tax Credit Extended Until April 30th & Second Tax Credit of $6500 for Second Home Purchases

Sonja Babic/Prudential Clear Water Realty New Bern NC — Sat, 07 Nov 2009 15:39:52 -0600

Via Matt Sweeney (Rich Kids Real Estate Group):

For all you rich kids who are currently in escrow on new construction and don't have a finite close date or for those of you who are still looking for the perfect pad, this extension is the news that you have been looking for. There had been rumors for a while that they would indeed extend the credit, but nothing had been passed until a couple of days ago. What's even more exciting is that there is now a $6500 credit for repeat homebuyers who have owned their home for at lease five years. Here are the details as reported by the Associated Press for MSN:

"WASHINGTON - Senators agreed Wednesday to extend a popular tax creditfor first-time homebuyers and to offer a reduced credit to some repeat buyers.

The tax credit provides up to $8,000 to first-time homebuyers but is set to expire at the end of November.

Senators agreed to extend the existing tax credit for first-time homebuyers while offering a reduced credit of up to $6,500 to repeat buyers who have owned their current homes for at least five years, said Regan Lachapelle, a spokeswoman for Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid, D-Nev. The tax credits would be available to homebuyers who sign sales agreements by the end of April. They would have until the end of June to close on their new homes, said a congressional aide, who spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to publicly discuss the deal. "

Check out this site for more info on the federal housing tax credit. Now get out there and buy!

What You Oughta Know About Blog Commenting

Sonja Babic/Prudential Clear Water Realty New Bern NC — Sat, 07 Nov 2009 06:44:01 -0600

Via Lisa Udy Realtor Utah Real Estate Specialist (Logan Utah Real Estate Immaculate Homes):

Much has been said about blog commenting here on ActiveRain, but what about blog commenting out in the real world? I'm talking about commenting on blogs that are not on the ActiveRain platform. Do you comment on other blogs within your niche? Do you try to grab the attention of the big boys? Why would you want to? How can commenting on other blogs help you?

Commenting on high profile blogs outside of A|R can have a huge impact on your publicity, your search engine results, and your overall popularity within the blogging world. Okay, so you won't get any A|R "points" for commenting outside of A|R, but there is a much larger benefit to be had.

Benefits Of Blog Commenting

Grab The Attention Of The Blogs Readers

Grab The Attention Of The Blogger

Increase Your Brand Awareness

Create More Back Links

Yes, blog commenting can do all those things, and much much more, however, there is a catch. You actually have to be a real life genuine human being when your commenting. None of this sissy, "great post thanks for sharing", stuff. You have to add value to the readers of the blog, and you have to add value to the blogger themselves. "Add Value" is the key.

GRAB THE ATTENTION OF THE BLOGS READERS

There are people out there that have never heard of you, never heard of ActiveRain, and surely don't know that you are a fantastic blogger. You have to show them that what you have to offer is something they might be interested in. Besides, they are already commenting on blogs and reading information in your niche, all you have to do is prove that you're worth their time.

How can I grab their attention?

It works much the same outside of ActiveRain as it does here. When commenting on most blogs, you get to add a link to your website or blog, which people will click on if you add value to a conversation. Here's an example:

Go to Google and search for your niche, and add blogs to the search like this:

As you can see by just doing a general real estate blog search, I have over 100 million choices to choose from. Now, click on a few blogs, and check out how they do their blog commenting. Make sure that when you comment you are able to leave a link back to your blog/website. It should look something like this:

The box that says website is where you want to enter your web address to your blog/website. That's all there is to it. Find blogs, leave comments, add value to the conversation, leave a link back to your blog/website, and use your analytics (click that link to learn how to install analytics on your blog) to watch the new traffic come in.

GRAB THE ATTENTION OF THE BLOGGER

When people comment on your blog, how does it make you feel? I can bet it makes you fell warm and fuzzy right? I'm talking about those people that leave a comment that makes you click on the link to their profile, add them as an associate, and go find their blog to leave them a comment. Those comments are the comments that get blog writers attention, and in a big way.

I found a blog called New Homes Blog. I started commenting on the blog, and I really enjoy reading what the writer had to say. So, I left some pretty meaty comments, and he emailed me. He asked me to be a guest blogger for his Utah section. A guest blogger! That means that he lets me write blogs on his blog, and leave a link back to my websites for Google juice. I got his attention by commenting with some great comments to add value to his blog.

The more you put in the more you will get. Start building a relationship with the blogger, and soon enough they just might start talking about you in their own blogs.

INCREASE YOUR BRAND AWARENESS

The more and more you start to show up on blogs in your niche, the more and more your brand is going to get recognized. By commenting on blogs all over th web,you're going to increase your online visibility.

The more you show up, the more people will be curious as to who you are, which will make people more likely to click on your link to learn more about you. Human curiosity!

Think about it. Who are the most popular people you know of on ActiveRain?

I bet you it's the top commenter's such as, TLW, Lenn Harley, Jason Crouch, Todd Clark, Broker Bryant, Loreena Yeo, C-Tann Star, Bill Gassett, Jeff Dowler, Missy Caulk, Rich Jacobson, Patricia Kennedy just to name a few, or the people who comment on your blog everyday.

These people comment a lot and for good reason, they are creating brand awareness. The more you see them, the more you want to know who they are, and that gives you a click through to your blog/website.

How many comments have you made today?

CREATE MORE BACK LINKS

(If you don't know what a do-follow and no-follow link are, before reading this section, I would recommend you read this blog on no-follow and do-follow links first.)

Just like ActiveRain, when you comment on some blogs, you get a do-follow link to your website.

Every time you make a comment on ActiveRain while logged in, you get a do-follow link pointing back to your profile.

In order to find blogs that are do-follow around the web, you will have to do some research.

So far, I have a list of 25 do-follow blogs that I am currently commenting on. I don't do it just for the link, I also add as much to the conversation as I can.

If I don't have anything to say that is going to add value, I don't say anything at all. I found these blogs by searching Google and researching real estate forums. Unfortunately, I am not going to give you my list of do-follow blogs, I want you to find your own, because it will be more beneficial to you if you do.

What I am going to do is, give you a head start in the right direction. Finding do-follow blogs is actually pretty easy once you have the Firefox plugin as mentioned in the link above.

Start out by searching Google for do-follow blogs:

Google Search: Do Follow Blogs

Do-follow blog search engine.

The Art Of Commenting On Do Follow Blogs

I use these tools and they helped me get a start in the right direction. If you're serious about ranking high for your keywords, commenting on do follow blogs can help you attain your goals. Remember, just because a blog is no follow, doesn't mean you can't get value out of it. Leaving your link is going to get people to click on it, which will bring traffic your way, and increase your brand awareness.

What's It All Mean?

Commenting on blogs is one of the most fundamental aspects of social media. You are interacting, creating relationships, and adding value to the on-going conversations around the web. Building your awareness through blog commenting takes time and effort to be successful. But I can attest that if you do it with genuine care you soon will start to see an increase in your blogs activity. Good Luck!

If you have any stories about how you comment, leave me a comment about it. Or better yet, write a blog about it, and leave a link in the comments so you can add value to my conversation!

P.S. A good place to start commenting is my new Cache Valley Real Estate blog!

Yard Sale and OPEN HOUSE

Sonja Babic/Prudential Clear Water Realty New Bern NC — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 21:40:45 -0600

Please come out and check out River Bends YARD SALE that is in years grown in to an spectacular event and visit me to check our one of the 4 homes I will have open tomorrow. Great deals with special one day prices!!!

Yard Sale 7 until

Four OPEN HOUSES 10 - 1 !!! Come out and say hello

117 Shoreline Dr 4 Bedrooms 2 bath Golf course property ONLY $179,900

113 Oakleaf Ct. -Immaculate home on one of the nicest golf course lots in River Bend! $249,900

347 Gatwood Dr. Welcome to your own "Bird Sanctuary" You will not believe the peace and tranquility you will feel once on this prop. $269,000

904 Plantation DR. Great family home on a large corner lot. SPECIAL PRICE $175,000

How ‘baut them North Carolina Apples?

Sonja Babic/Prudential Clear Water Realty New Bern NC — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 10:18:13 -0600

How ‘baut them North Carolina Apples?

Yes it is that time of the year again, fall in North Carolina comes with fresh juice North Carolina Apples and this year they are only click away.

Visit

http://www.ncfarmfresh.com/

where you can locate apple road side markets, pick your own orchards and farmers markets close to you.

Remember you are what you eat and in North Carolina it's getting easier and easier to get quality locally grown produce. Enjoy!

Your North Carolina Broker

Sonja Babic 252-617-0861

New Bern NC Real Estate and Info

New Bern Homes For Sale

New Bern Homes Value

Search Entire New Bern MLS

Great NEW listing in River Bend 113 Oakleaf Ct.

Sonja Babic/Prudential Clear Water Realty New Bern NC — Mon, 26 Oct 2009 08:38:11 -0500

Sonja Babic | Prudential Clear Water Realty | sonja@suddenlink.net | 252/617-0861

113 Oakleaf Ct., New Bern, NC

-Immaculate home on one of the nicest golf course lots in River Bend!

3BR/2BA Single Family House

offered at $249,900

Year Built	1973
Sq Footage	1,900
Bedrooms	3
Bathrooms	2 full, 0 partial
Floors	Unspecified
Parking	1 Car garage
Lot Size	21,780 sqft
HOA/Maint	$0 per month

DESCRIPTION

You are looking at a very tastefully updated home on one of the nicest
golf course lots in River Bend. Located on the low traffic cul-de-sac
and settled between matured hardwood trees it is your dream home.
This home has been completely renovated with all new kitchen,
bathrooms, floors and the list goes on and on….
It offers an exceptional floor plan with nice and spacious bedrooms,
formal living room and dining room as well as a spacious eat in kitchen
and family room. The master bedroom has a view of the golf course
and renovated bathroom with walk in closet, dual vanities and full size
tile shower (you have to see).

Cozy up in your family room in front of your gas logs fireplace
while enjoying one of the nicest golf course views in River Bend!

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

- Central A/C	- Central heat	- Fireplace
- Walk-in closet	- Hardwood floor	- Tile floor
- Family room	- Living room	- Dining room
- Breakfast nook	- Dishwasher	- Refrigerator
- Stove/Oven	- Washer	- Dryer
- Laundry area - inside

COMMUNITY FEATURES

- Clubhouse	- Swimming pool(s)	- Tennis court(s)
- Golf course	- Lake	- Playground

OTHER SPECIAL FEATURES

- One of the nicest golf course lots in River Bend!

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Photo 1	Photo 2
Photo 3	Photo 4
Photo 5	Photo 6

Contact info:

Sonja Babic

Prudential Clear Water Realty

NC Lic # 228835B

sonja@suddenlink.net

252/617-0861

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Oct 26, 2009, 5:03am PDT

Great NEW listing on the Neuse River 234 Drake Landing

Sonja Babic/Prudential Clear Water Realty New Bern NC — Mon, 26 Oct 2009 08:34:45 -0500

Sonja Babic | Prudential Clear Water Realty | 252/617-0861

234 Drake Landing, New Bern, NC

Custom built waterfront DREAM in Neuse Harbour

5BR/3.5BA Single Family House

offered at $825,000

Year Built	1990
Sq Footage	4,300
Bedrooms	5
Bathrooms	3 full, 1 partial
Floors	2
Parking	Unspecified
Lot Size	0.69 acres
HOA/Maint	$0 per month

DESCRIPTION

Custom built waterfront in Neuse Harbour, upscale waterfront subdivision on the Neuse River! Come home to breathtaking view of the Majestic Neuse River that you can comfortably enjoy out of almost every room in this home. Large Master Suite with hardwood floors, whirlpool, and oversized walk in closet opens to a private terrace. Relax on your private terrace and watch dolphins swim by. Nice formal entrance leads in to formal living area and dinning room but you will also have a large family room with wet bar that opens to a private screen porch. This 4300 sq.ft. home has all the space your family can need and it is well suited for entertaining. Home has desirable floor plan and it was custom built by a local builder.

DON'T LET THIS ONE GO AWAY

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

- Central A/C	- Fireplace	- Walk-in closet
- Hardwood floor	- Tile floor	- Family room
- Living room	- Bonus/Rec room	- Office/Den
- Dining room	- Breakfast nook	- Dishwasher
- Refrigerator	- Stove/Oven	- Microwave
- Granite countertop	- Laundry area - inside	- Balcony, Deck, or Patio

OTHER SPECIAL FEATURES

- WATERFRONT

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Photo 1	Photo 1
Photo 2	Photo 2
Photo 1	Photo 2

Contact info:

Sonja Babic

Prudential Clear Water Realty

NC Lic # 228835B

252/617-0861

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Oct 6, 2009, 12:35pm PDT

Sunday, October 4 Tryon Palace “Free Gardens” Sunday

Sonja Babic/Prudential Clear Water Realty New Bern NC — Tue, 29 Sep 2009 19:54:27 -0500

Tryon Palace "Free Gardens" Sunday

Save the date!

It's always a beautiful time of the year in the Tryon Palace Historic Sites gardens, but fall is one of our favorite seasons. Come by on Sunday October 4 for first Sunday ...in the Gardens, when the gardens of Tryon Palace are open free to the public to enjoy all the flowers. (Interior tours require the purchase of a ticket.)

Your North Carolina Broker

Sonja Babic

252-617-0861

www.SonjaBabic.com

Sonja Babic is your New Bern and North Carolina Real Estate Broker! Looking for waterfront, historic or golf? We have it all! Conveniently located and with so much to offer New Bern is a great place to work, play and retire!

Please contact me for more information's or to request your FREE info pack!

Hurricane Floyd 10 years anniversary

Sonja Babic/Prudential Clear Water Realty New Bern NC — Tue, 15 Sep 2009 20:48:06 -0500

All thou here in New Bern we were very fortunate and haven't experienced destruction as in other parts of eastern North Carolina we are in the middle of another hurricane season and we shouldn't ever underestimate mother nature. I just wanted to share some Hurricane Floyd facts and remind everyone to get prepared for possible storms and always have that emergency kit ready.

Hurricane Floyd Facts

In Eastern North Carolina

Total damage: More than $3 billion

Rainfall: 10 to 24 inches east of I-95

Deaths: 52

Private wells contaminated: 2,800

Lost telephone service: 65,000

Lost electricity: 1.2 million

Airports damaged: 23

Roads closed: 1,500

Downtowns submerged: 30

Businesses damaged: 60,000. $1 billion damage. $4 billion lost revenue.

Farms damaged: 32,000. $812 million damage and loss.

Homes damaged: 67,000. 17,000 destroyed.

Public shelters: 227, housing 67,000 people.

Sonja Babic Your North Carolina Broker 252-617-0861
Sonja Babic Real Estate in New Bern North Carolina

The market has changed, did your business??

Sonja Babic/Prudential Clear Water Realty New Bern NC — Fri, 24 Jul 2009 14:53:44 -0500

Remember not so long ago, when you could make a fortune in real estate. It was nothing to buy a home. Wait a short while and then sell it for a tidy profit. Then you would do it all over again.

Well as you probably know times have changed.....

Buyers are more discriminating then ever and a large percentage of homes that get listed today don't sell the first time or even second time.

It is more critical then ever to do your homework and avoid any possible mistakes. What do you do different and what has changed in your business?

New Bern NC Real Estate

Sonja Babic

Your North Carolina Broker

252-617-0861

Downtown hotel goes on auction block

Sonja Babic/Prudential Clear Water Realty New Bern NC — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 07:28:30 -0500

Downtown hotel goes on auction block

Economic situation is becoming more obvious even in the sleepy New Bern NC. This week, a downtown New Bern hotel will be sold to the highest bidder to help settle a debt that exceeds $2 million.

The Days Hotel in Five Points will be sold "lock, stock and barrel" during a public auction Thursday at 10 a.m.

The hotel closed in May after its owners, Connecticut Avenue Partners, were unable to pay their creditors.

The successful bidder will get not only the hotel property, but also its furnishings. Within the past year, the hotel had major interior renovations, including restaurant, lobby and guestroom upgrades. Right now there is no telling what kind of money will hotel bring in but with its great location it sure can turn up to be great business opportunity.

New Bern NC Real Estate
New Bern NC Homes For Sale
Search Entire New Bern MLS

NC Symphony New Bern series

Sonja Babic/Prudential Clear Water Realty New Bern NC — Tue, 23 Jun 2009 10:45:50 -0500

Last night we were treated to a beautiful summer night of some awesome movie music with NC symphony. New Bern music lovers came in huge numbers and made this a spectacular event as always. Evening stared with Tryon Palace drummers and a surprise marriage proposal. Concert was held in Tryon Palace historic gardens overlooking Trent River. What a glorious night! Conducted by William Henry Curry in his 14^th season with NC symphony, orchestra was magnificent.

In 2009 - 2010 season they have planed 4concerts in New Bern's Riverfront Convention Center and season tickets or individual tickets are available now. More Info at www.NCsymphony.org

Your North Carolina Broker

Sonja Babic

252-617-0861

New Bern NC Real Estate

New Bern NC Homes For Sale

Read My BLOG

Search Entire New Bern MLS

Near-normal Atlantic hurricane season is most likely this year

Sonja Babic/Prudential Clear Water Realty New Bern NC — Wed, 03 Jun 2009 15:53:11 -0500

NOAA Issues Atlantic Hurricane Season Outlook, Encourages Preparedness

Recommended Disaster Supply Kit

Have an emergency supplies ready and packed in one place before disaster hits. Store supplies in an easy to carry case or container with ID tag (very important!)

For Medical Needs

First Aid Kit

Prescriptions and all the medication you are currently taking with instruction and dosage information's.

List of allergies

Extra glasses and hearing aid batteries.

Medical insurance information's

List of doctors as well relatives to be contacted should you gat injured

General Emergency Supplies

Battery operated radio or TV, flashlight and extra batteries

Change of clothing, shoes and rain gear

Blankets or sleeping bags

Extra set of keys

Cash, credit cards, cell phone, cell phone charger

Personal hygiene supplies

Phone numbers for friends and family

Insurance agent name and number

Proof of residency (Driver license is not sufficient you need tax bill or such)

Water

1 gallon per person per day, and plan on at least 3 days. Make sure it is stored in light and unbreakable containers.

Non perishable food

Chose food that are easy to carry and that are ready to eat. Make sure to get something nutritious and include appropriate openers

Important family documents

They should be kept on one place in a water proof, portable container at all times.

Special Items

Baby Items

Pets Items

Entertainment (books, light electronics etc.)

Your North Carolina Broker
Sonja Babic
252-617-0861
www.SonjaBabic.com
Sonja Babic with Prudential Clear Water Realty is your New Bern and North Carolina Real Estate Broker! Looking for waterfront, historic or golf? We have it all! Conveniently located and with so much to offer New Bern is a great place to work, play and retire!

Completely renovated bungalow with soo much charm REDUCED $162,999

Sonja Babic/Prudential Clear Water Realty New Bern NC — Thu, 07 May 2009 17:23:19 -0500

Unique property drastically reduced for a quick sale. Completely redone including plumbing and electrical in one of New Bern historic neighborhoods. Current price is more then 40,000 off original list price. Turn key historic home that will not last long with this price! Call or text 252-617-0861

New Bern NC Real Estate and Info

New Bern Homes For Sale

New Bern Homes Value

Search Entire New Bern MLS

Read Sonja's Blog

Your North Carolina Broker

Sonja Babic

252-617-0861

www.SonjaBabic.com

Sonja Babic with Prudential Clear Water Realty is your New Bern and North Carolina Real Estate Broker! Looking for waterfront, historic or golf? We have it all! Conveniently located and with so much to offer New Bern is a great place to work, play and retire!

Please contact me for more information's or to request your FREE info pack!

Looking for a land deal?

Sonja Babic/Prudential Clear Water Realty New Bern NC — Mon, 27 Apr 2009 18:04:39 -0500

6 Beaufort County Waterfront Parcels

& 3.2 Acre Adjoining Commercial Parcel

AUCTION: Thursday - April 30th – 6:00 PM

Auction Site: Aurora Community Center

422 3rd Street, Off NC Hwy 33, Aurora, NC

A Portion Selling ABSOLUTE to the Highest Bidder !!!

Located on Beautiful South Creek in Aurora !!

NC Hwy 33 at Old Campbell’s Creek Road

6 Deep Water & Protected Waterfront Parcels

Direct Deep Water Access to Pamlico River & Sound !!!

30 minutes from New Bern & Original Washington !!!

2.5 to 3.0 Acres Each

4 BR Septic Permit Issued for Each

Spectacular Home Sites among hardwood trees

Adjoining 3.2 Acre Commercial Lot at Great Intersection

NOTE: 3 of these Outstanding WATERFRONT Parcels

Are Selling Absolute to the Highest Bidder !!!

For more information or to register email Sonja@Sudddenlink.net

Your North Carolina Broker

Sonja Babic

New Bern NC Real Estate and Homes for sale

252-617-0861

Public Marina coming to New Bern

Sonja Babic/Prudential Clear Water Realty New Bern NC — Sun, 19 Apr 2009 18:44:59 -0500

Swiss Bear Downtown Development Corporation has received a $646,650 federal grant to create a public marina for transient boaters on Jack's Island at Lawson Creek Park.

The money comes from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and is intended specifically for boating infrastructure projects. The grant is expected to pay for nearly half of a $1.4 million construction project that will create a 14-slip marina.

Of those, 12 slips would be available to the public, one would be for a "pump out" boat and one for a safety vessel. Dubbed the River History Marina, it would provide the first public, short-term dockage available in New Bern.

The marina is designed for 35- to 40-foot boats that would dock there no longer than 10 days. Boaters would be charged a base fee, and then $1.50 a foot per vessel.

The marina project also includes a dock master's office that is a replica of the Neuse River Lighthouse.

Your North Carolina Broker

Sonja Babic

252-617-0861

New Bern NC Real Estate

New Bern home and garden this Friday

Sonja Babic/Prudential Clear Water Realty New Bern NC — Wed, 15 Apr 2009 05:47:59 -0500

Come and get a little taste of New Bern history!

The annual New Bern Spring Historic Homes and Gardens Tour features 16 historic homes and gardens.

The Friday and Saturday tour is sponsored by the New Bern Historical Society and the New Bern Preservation Foundation, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day.

Many of the areas historic churches will also be open and will offer music. Homemade bagged lunches and baked goods will be available at the restored Pinnix Drug Store.

The Tryon Palace Gardens will be open to the public for the tour weekend. Spring Homes Tour ticket holders will receive a discount on the Governor's Pass to tour the Palace and the New Bern Academy.

All tour ticket holders are also invited to a special reception at Carolina Creations at 317 Pollock St. on Friday from 5-7 p.m. There are also numerous other activities downtown.

The homes on the tour include:

Hand House, Gull Harbor Point, 510 E. Front Street.

Jacob Hartsfield House, Garden included, 516 E. Front Street.

Hugh Lovick Hassan House, 701 E. Front Street

Dr. William L. Hand, Sr. House, 212 Johnson Street

John B. Ives House, 312 Johnson Street.

Milton L. Hollowell House, 614 Middle Street

Pinnix Drug Store-Mary Bynum Smith Building, 628 Hancock Street Old Library, 517 Johnson Street -

Garden only Kafer Rental House, 520 Metcalf Street

Herekian Styron House, 408 Metcalf Street

Attmore-Oliver House, garden included, 511 Broad Street.

Duffy-Land House, Gardens included, 210 Metcalf Street

Tryon Palace Historic Sites and Gardens, Pollock and George Street

John Horner Hill House, 713 Pollock Street

Cutler Rental House, 305 Bern Street

Albert Castet House, gardens included, 817 Pollock Street.

Tickets may be purchased at the New Bern Historical Society at 512 Pollock Street, the New Bern Preservation Foundation at 510B Pollock Street, Craven County Convention and Visitor's Bureau at South Front Street, the Bank of the Arts at 217 Middle Street, and Harris Teeter at 2019 S. Glenburnie Road.

Sonja Babic

Your North Carolina Broker

www.SonjaBabic.com

Government wants to give you $8,000, why not take it?

Sonja Babic/Prudential Clear Water Realty New Bern NC — Tue, 14 Apr 2009 07:09:53 -0500

Take advantage of this great and unique opportunity and get some money from government. There is so much you might not know and yes you might qualify as well to take advantage of this. There are many misconceptions about this credit and one of them is that if you previously owned a home you cannot qualify. WRRONG First time buyer is a buyer that have not purchased home in the last 3 years! There might me more for you to learn so please take your time and watch this great video that explains it very well.

After that search for homes at www.SonjaBabic.com or call me to find you a home!

Your North Carolina Broker
Sonja Babic
252-617-0861
www.SonjaBabic.com

Happy Spring to all my friends

Sonja Babic/Prudential Clear Water Realty New Bern NC — Tue, 10 Mar 2009 12:56:26 -0500

Hope this letter finds you well!

As we awaken form cold winter days that were filled with stressful news events and more then ever uncertainty for all us we are approaching better days. Sun is shining bright down on us as the whole nature awakens. Together with crocuses, daffodils and more optimistic news we are awakening here at Prudential Clear Water Realty, grateful to still be here and determined more then ever to provide our clients with truly outstanding service. Whatever your real estate needs might be give me a call and let me know about some of the new services that are currently available.

As always make sure to take advantage of great resources at www.SonjaBabic.com that are constantly updated and user friendly or use the same web site to search entire New Bern NC MLS. Everything at your finger tips!

Spring is the season of renewal and rebirth, our thoughts turn to old friends whom we have not seen in a while. Perhaps our relationship has been dormant, or perhaps you have not needed and help with real estate. Or perhaps there is something we need to do to make amends. Whatever the reason for our not having heard from you, we hope to hear from you soon.

More, however, I hope that this beautiful season brings you growth, warmth, and light.

Sonja Babic with Prudential Clear Water Realty is your New Bern and North Carolina Real Estate Broker! Looking for waterfront, historic or golf? We have it all!

Motorcycle rally leaving Myrtle Beach for New Bern N.C. WOW......

Sonja Babic/Prudential Clear Water Realty New Bern NC — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 10:22:58 -0600

Calling all bikers to NEW BERN North Carolina!

After 68 years in Horry County, the Carolina Harley-Davidson Dealers Association motorcycle rally is hitting the road.

Bikers may not be welcome in Myrtle Beach, but the original home of N.C. governors and Pepsi is opening its door wide. New Bern that is far known for its hospitality and acceptance of all that road brings in to this quiet and scenic town on the banks of the Neuse and Trent is being recognized as such one more time. This time but little unlikely Harley Davison community that is moving they annual rally form Myrtle Beach to New Bern this year.

Read what News Oserver has to say about.

So save your date and make sure to came and see us. The dealers association, which has sponsored the oldest and shortest of the May events, said it will hold this year's rally May 15 and 16 at the New Bern Fairgrounds.

Sonja Babic is Your North Carolina Broker www.SonjaBabic.com 252/617-0861

New Bern NC Historic Downtown

Sonja Babic/Prudential Clear Water Realty New Bern NC — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 14:01:04 -0600

New Bern was founded by Baron Christopher von Graffenried in 1710. Von Graffenried named the settlement after his hometown of Bern, the Swiss capital. It is North Carolina second oldest town.Although New Bern is very much a modern city it continues to grow, its charm remains historic. Travel back over in time by exploring Tryon Palace Historic Sites and Gardens and other locations throughout the city.

Your North Carolina Broker

Sonja Babic

252-617-0861

www.SonjaBabic.com

New Waterfront Lisitng

Sonja Babic/Prudential Clear Water Realty New Bern NC — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 13:39:08 -0600

Sonja Babic | Prudential Clear Water Realty | 252/617-0861

216 Gangplank Dr., New Bern, NC

Unique Waterfront Home

3BR/2BA Single Family House

offered at $275,900

Year Built	1980
Sq Footage	1,850
Bedrooms	3
Bathrooms	2 full, 0 partial
Floors	1
Parking	2 Car garage
Lot Size	55,974 sqft
HOA/Maint	$0 per month

DESCRIPTION

This is a great family home situated on a unique waterfront lot in River Bend. Home features split bedroom floor plan with and oversized Master Bedroom as well as master bath. It has 1850 sq. ft. plus finished room above garage that is approximately 400 sq. ft. and it has separate heat and air unit. Eat in kitchen was completely redone in 2003 customer cabinets, ceramic tile and a bay window in the breakfast area. Formal dinning room with gorgeous hardwood floors. Warm and inviting living room with exposed beams and gas logs fireplace opens in on to new deck and back yard.
Great exterior features, circular concrete drive way, lovely white picket fence in the back, underground fence that goes around entire property and 8 X 15 green house on the permanent foundation.
This waterfront home in move in condition is located in an established and desirable New Bern’s neighborhood of River Bend. Excellent Elementary school, golf course and protected waterfront convenient to Trent River make this a fantastic location.

Could this be the one? Call me and lets find out.

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

Central A/C	Central heat	Fireplace
High/Vaulted ceiling	Walk-in closet	Hardwood floor
Tile floor	Family room	Living room
Dining room	Breakfast nook	Dishwasher
Refrigerator	Stove/Oven	Laundry area - inside
Yard

COMMUNITY FEATURES

Clubhouse	Fitness center	Swimming pool(s)
Tennis court(s)	Golf course	Lake
Playground

OTHER SPECIAL FEATURES

Trent River Waterfront

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Seller contact info:

Sonja Babic

Prudential Clear Water Realty

252/617-0861

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Feb 19, 2009, 11:22am PST

Encouraging Signs in Real Estate

Sonja Babic/Prudential Clear Water Realty New Bern NC — Thu, 12 Feb 2009 08:25:47 -0600

Could the tide be turning for real estate?

First we saw a surprising 6.5 percent jump in home sales for December. Now we've just gotten the latest Pending Home Sales Index, and it's up 6.3 percent, thanks to double digit gains of 13 percent in the Midwest and the South.

Forecloses are down 10% in Januarycompared to December. ( Witch leads me to believe that there are finally programs out there that I trying to keep working people in there homes)

Mortgage rates inched up slightly last week, according to the Mortgage Bankers Association, with thirty year fixed rate loans averaging 5.3 percent compared to 5.2 percent the week before. That's up a notch, but it's still close to 40 year historic lows.

It is impossible to predict what is $15,000 credit that is part of the coming stimulus package actually going to do to the sales industry estimates range anywhere from several hundred thousand upward, provided the expiration date runs through this coming December. (This is the one that you DON'T have to pay back!)

Suzi Orman said last week in the Good Morning America that if you in the market to buy "Now is the time!" (I almost passed out as that was a first positive statement on our major broadcasts for a long time)

And general public appears to be more and more optimistic about real estate market.

Is it just mine strong desire or have we headed in a promising direction?

Your North Carolina Broker

Sonja Babic

www.SonjaBabic.com

Going All Bananas

Sonja Babic/Prudential Clear Water Realty New Bern NC — Wed, 11 Feb 2009 08:03:53 -0600

Never, put your banana in the refrigerator!!!
This is interesting.
After reading this, you'll never look at a banana in the same way again.
Bananas contain three natural sugars - sucrose, fructose and glucose combined with fiber. A banana gives an instant, sustained and substantial boost of energy.

Research has proven that just two bananas provide enough energy for a strenuous 90-minute workout. No wonder the banana is the number one fruit with the world's leading athletes.

But energy isn't the only way a banana can help us keep fit. It can also help overcome or prevent a substantial number of illnesses and conditions, making it a must to add to our daily diet.

Depression: According to a recent survey undertaken by MIND amongst people suffering from depression, many felt much better after eating a banana. This is because bananas contain tryptophan, a type of protein that the body converts into serotonin, known to make you relax, improve your mood and generally make you feel happier.

PMS: Forget the pills - eat a banana. The vitamin B6 it contains regulates blood glucose levels, which can affect your mood.

Anemia: High in iron, bananas can stimulate the production of hemoglobin in the blood and so helps in cases of anemia.

Blood Pressure: This unique tropical fruit is extremely high in potassium yet low in salt, making it perfect to beat blood pressure. So much so, the US Food and Drug Administration has just allowed the banana industry to make official claims for the fruit's ability to reduce the risk of blood pressure and stroke.

Brain Power: 200 students at a Twickenham (Middlesex) school (England) were helped through their exams this year by eating bananas at breakfast, break, and lunch in a bid to boost their brain power. Research has shown that the potassium-packed fruit can assist learning by making pupils more alert.

Constipation: High in fiber, including bananas in the diet can help restore normal bowel action, helping to overcome the problem without resorting to laxatives.

Hangovers: One of the quickest ways of curing a hangover is to make a banana milkshake, sweetened with honey. The banana calms the stomach and, with the help of the honey, builds up depleted blood sugar levels, while the milk soothes and re-hydrates your system.

Heartburn: Bananas have a natural antacid effect in the body, so if you suffer from heartburn, try eating a banana for soothing relief.

Morning Sickness: Snacking on bananas between meals helps to keep blood sugar levels up and avoid morning sickness.

Mosquito bites: Before reaching for the insect bite cream, try rubbing the affected area with the inside of a banana skin. Many people find it amazingly successful at reducing swelling and irritation.

Nerves: Bananas are high in B vitamins that help calm the nervous system.

Overweight and at work? Studies at the Institute of Psychology in Austria found pressure at work leads to gorging on comfort food like chocolate and chips. Looking at 5,000 hospital patients, researchers found the most obese were more likely to be in high-pressure jobs. The report concluded that, to avoid panic-induced food cravings, we need to control our blood sugar levels by snacking on high carbohydrate foods every two hours to keep levels steady.

Ulcers: The banana is used as the dietary food against intestinal disorders because of its soft texture and smoothness. It is the only raw fruit that can be eaten without distress in over-chronicler cases. It also neutralizes over-acidity and reduces irritation by coating the lining of the stomach.

Temperature control: Many other cultures see bananas as a "cooling" fruit that can lower both the physical and emotional temperature of expectant mothers. In Thailand , for example, pregnant women eat bananas to ensure their baby is born with a cool temperature.

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD): Bananas can help SAD sufferers because they contain the natural mood enhancer tryptophan.

Smoking &Tobacco Use: Bananas can also help people trying to give up smoking. The B6, B12 they contain, as well as the potassium and magnesium found in them, help the body recover from the effects of nicotine withdrawal.

Stress: Potassium is a vital mineral, which helps normalize the heartbeat, sends oxygen to the brain and regulates your body's water balance. When we are stressed, our metabolic rate rises, thereby reducing our potassium levels. These can be rebalanced with the help of a high-potassium banana snack.

Strokes: According to research in The New England Journal of Medicine, eating bananas as part of a regular diet can cut the risk of death by strokes by as much as 40%!

Warts: Those keen on natural alternatives swear that if you want to kill off a wart, take a piece of banana skin and place it on the wart, with the yellow side out. Carefully hold the skin in place with a plaster or surgical tape!

So, a banana really is a natural remedy for many ills. When you compare it to an apple, it has four times the protein, twice the carbohydrate, three times the phosphorus, five times the vitamin A and iron, and twice the other vitamins and minerals. It is also rich in potassium and is one of the best value foods around So maybe its time to change that well-known phrase so that we say, "A banana a day keeps the doctor away!"

Your North Caroliona Broker

Sonja Babic

www.SonjaBabic.com