Wilmington NC Real Estate Blog

 Two New Wilmington NC Listings: Must-See Properties!

106 Koonce Ct. and 4741 Wedgefield Dr.

Every now and then, listings come on the market that are absolute must-sees.   I am thrilled to market two homes in opposite ends of New Hanover County, both with wonderful features!

106 Koonce Ct. in Marsh Oaks is a wonderful property, listed at $369,900.  2700 square feet, 4 bedrooms, 3 1/2 baths.  Cul-du-sac lot in a desirable neighborhood.  Fenced back yard, mature landscaping with lovely hardwood trees.   A fabulous family home with generous rooms, southern style home with gorgeous front porch and large back porch, this is one to see!  Kitchen boasts a walk-in pantry, upgraded appliances and lots of excellent storage.  It opens onto sunny breakfast room, looking out onto the private backyard. Large family room and additional living room or study/home office. 

Marsh Oaks is located on the northern part of New Hanover Country.  It is extremely popular with buyers looking for neighborhood amenities and low HOA dues.  The monthly dues are just over $43 per month and include access to the neighborhood pool, tennis, clubhouse and playground.  It’s one of the very best HOA bangs for the buck in Wilmington!

The other property I’d like to tell you about is 4741 Wedgefield Dr.  It’s on the other side of New Hanover County, to the south.  The neighborhood is Wedgefield at Crosswinds, conveniently located in the S. College area between Wilmington and Monkey Junction.  This home is currently listed at $269,900.  Approximately 2500 square ft, this one-level home offers a wonderful floor plan with all living areas and 3 bedrooms on the first floor, with a finished bonus room over the garage (FROG).  There is a formal living room and dining room, as well as a breakfast room off the gourmet kitchen.  Best of all is a large, comfortable family room/den with vaulted ceiling and high clerestory windows bringing in lots of light.  This lovely room, open to the kitchen, is the heart center of the home.  The lot is just shy of an acre and has been lovingly planted by the sellers over the years, creating a beautiful oasis. 

4741 Wedgefield is a short sale property.  Foreclosure proceedings have begun on this home, but have been postponed in light of the sellers listing the property and pursuing a sale.  We need an offer immediately to keep the foreclosure sale from happening in the short term, so please consider this home and make an offer!  In a community where homes are listed in the mid-300’s to 500’s, this home is a steal in the high $200’s!!  A short sale is a sale where the bank agrees to sell the property for less than the loan amount, and can also mean incredible deals for buyers. 

Contact listing agent Shannon Andrews today for information on either 106 Koonce Ct. or 4741 Wedgefield Dr.!  910-352-2759  sandrews@bluecoastrealestate.com

If you are looking for Coastal Living at its finest then Seawatch at Sunset Harbor is for you.

Located in the lovely historic town of Bolivia in Brunswick County North Carolina­ consistently ranked as one of the "Best Places to Live" - Seawatch at Sunset Harbor is a master-planned community that offers something for everyone. Relax in the quaint Southern charm of a community lined with majestic mature live oak trees while enjoying the luxuries of the well-planned amenities.

Currently a short 10-minute drive allows you to spend a day lounging on the beaches of the South Brunswick Islands while future plans include a deep-water access to the Atlantic Ocean with a marina and private beach club on the Intracoastal Waterway.

Seawatch at Sunset Harbor will offer over 20 miles of nature trails for biking, running and walking that feature elevated trails through tidal marsh, forests and rolling landscapes.  The Kayak and Canoe Clubhouse will be located on Mercer Mill Creek and will feature a full kitchen, open living area, a stone fireplace and huge screened porches overlooking the water.  Additionally there will a boat launch on the creek with year-round boat storage.

The most impressive amenity at Seawatch at Sunset Harbor is the planned 23-acre Sunset Part amenity campus. Included will be the main clubhouse that will house the Health and Fitness Center. The Health and Fitness center will consist of a full service spa,a Junior Olympic outdoor  pool, an indoor poor, a Jacuzzi, indoor track, an impressive golf technology center with an observation deck and more. There will be an outdoor events area, amphitheater, children's play place, soft surface tennis courts and putting greens. Additional plans include a community shopping village with the perfect mix of services, shopping and dining.

Seawatch at Sunset Harbor is located approximately 45 minutes from Wilmington, NC and a little more than an hour from Myrtle Beach, SC giving you convenient access to some of the best restaurants, shopping, entertainment and golf in North and South Carolina.

Currently there are two lots available at Seawatch at Sunset Harbor being sold as a short sale for the price of $25,000 per lot.  591 Ella and 614 Del Sol Circle SE.

For more information regarding these lots and Costal Living contact listing agent

Jan  Justice at 919-906-7302.

What a great time to buy!

Mortgage interest rates drop again

 Everybody loves a sale, and one that saves mortgage payment dollars is the greatest sale of all ... this is one that lasts for 30 years.

 Most mortgage interest rates are around 3.78 percent for a 30-year, fixed rate mortgage, but many lenders are offering rates that are even lower, especially for loans offered over the Internet.

 BestMortgageLoan.com offers mortgages at 2.38 percent and claim there are no hidden fees ever. That means the payment on a $150,000, 30-year fixed rate mortgage is $583 per month.

 Search the Internet for mortgage lenders in your area that are offering low-interest deals. Often those offered on the Internet are granted only for people with the highest credit scores.

 A brick-and-motor lender near you might have something almost as good as those offered on the Internet.

Mortgage Applications Rise

Mortgage applications for home purchases continued to inch up last week, rising 1.4 percent, the Mortgage Bankers Association reported in its weekly survey that ended Aug. 24. Mortgage applications for home purchases is viewed as a future gauge for sales. This can be a confidence builder.

Home Sales Rise

Here in Wilmington, NC, sales of homes continue to make gains. In mid-August, the Wilmington Regional Association of Realtors reported July's home sales were up 22 percent over July 2011's numbers and was the best July since 2008. That news was followed last week by the closely-followed National Association of Home Builders/Wells Fargo Housing Market Index reporting that builder confidence in August was at its highest level since February 2007.

The National Association of REALTORS® reported that pending home sales — which are based on contract signings — soared to their highest level in more than two years and were 12.4 percent over year ago levels.

Need a jumbo loan?

In Wilmington, Wrightsville Beach, Carolina Beach and Kure Beach there are many homes available for sale that may require a jumbo loan. Sales and new construction is going strong. There are deals to be made and our beaches are wonderful.

Citi is making some of its lower-rate jumbo mortgage loans available to the general public. Citibank Mortgage consultants are available to help you find the finance option that's right for you. Call 1-877-815-6938 and mention Code 12085-9.

I have listed a lot of good reasons to buy a home or vacation home here in Wilmington, NC. Do your home work, make decisions that are right for you, then come visit. We would love to see you.

-BlueCoast agent David Dougherty

If you’re looking for the ideal place to settle down that offers pretty much the best of everything, then look no farther – St James Plantation is one of the Southeast’s most popular and fast-growing communities.  A convenient drive to historic downtown Wilmington there are several beaches close-by which makes the location perfect for retirees and commuters alike.

In St James Plantation you will find exiting new neighborhoods flourishing in every direction.  There is Woodlands Park, SeaSide, HarborWalk, Regency Lakes and many newly constructed available homes. Below is a quick breakdown on the different communities within St James Plantation.  All have been created with timeless designs, are low maintenance and offer open floor plans with quality finishes.

Woodlands Park is the newest neighborhood complete with outdoor amphitheater, parks and nature trails perfect for hiking and biking.  The Parkview Collection of Homes can be found in this neighborhood and is just minutes from the SeaSide Club. New construction homesites start in the low $100k.

SeaSide is a community with more of a coastal focus.  The SeaSide Club has fantastic outdoor pool and clubhouse and the spacious floorplans offered range from approx. 1,200 to 2,000 square feet.  The Beaumont is SeaSide’s newest cottage home!  Homes priced from $225k.

Harbor Walk is a fantastic boat-loving condominium community complete with community pool, just steps from the marina.  This is more of a condominium lifestyle with spacious floor plan and communal amenities that include pool, gathering pavilion, grilling station and private lake and dock. Condos priced from $290k.

Regency Lakes homes offer a great quality of living for larger families.  Floor plans range in size from 1,400-2,500 square feet.  The Players Club Sports Center, neighborhood lake and dock, and beautiful park are some of the fantastic amenities available to you here.  The Darcy and The Crosby are Regency Lakes newest cottage homes.  Prices start in the mid-$200k.

For more information on St James Plantation real estate or other real estate opportunities in Wilmington and surrounding areas, give BlueCoast agent Cami Marley a call.  Visit her online www.camimarley.com or 910-297-9086.

Sometimes in life, a great opportunity presents itself. This is certainly one of those times. The seller of 816 Campbell St has just drastically reduced the price of his beautifully restored home, and told me to bring all offers! Now priced at $79,950, this 3 bedroom, 2 bath bungalow is clearly the area’s top bargain!  Featuring all new carpet, paint, HVAC, roof, windows, cabinets, countertops, appliances, plumbing and light fixtures, and a stained privacy fence, this home shows like a model! You’ll find the hardwood foyer to be warm and inviting, the ceramic tile in the kitchen and baths to be an upscale feature rarely found at this price point, and the 2” plantation style blinds to aid in the increased efficiency provided by the new double paned windows. With higher end features like crown molding, oversized trim, and the glass tile backsplash in the kitchen, you’ll know you’ve found the deal of a lifetime!

And this is certainly the time to take advantage of such an amazing deal! Because the north end of downtown Wilmington is in the process of undergoing a major resurgence and revitalization that will certainly lead to increased property values over time. The area has recently witnessed the addition of Wilmington’s new convention center, the relocation of PPD (one of Wilmington’s top employers), the continued growth of Cape Fear Community College, and the addition or restoration of several high end apartment and mixed use buildings. Another enhancement to downtown Wilmington’s Brooklyn Arts District is the elegant restoration of the 120+ year old St. Andrews Church which now is the beautiful Brooklyn Arts Center at St Andrews The center is known for hosting weddings, receptions,  art expositions, corporate events, concerts, and more. Learn more about the Center at www.brooklynartsnc.com. For more information the growing Brooklyn Arts District, about 816 Campbell St, or any other area listing, please call Joel Sheesley at 910.398.2222, or email me at Joel@BlueCoastRealEstate.com.

Wilmington, NC is a very family friendly city. You don’t have to look too hard or travel too far to find something fun to do… even with the kids in tow!

The Battleship USS North Carolina

Adults and children alike have enjoyed touring the Battleship USS North Carolina for just over fifty years. I even remember touring this amazing landmark with my family when I was young. Commissioned in 1941, the USS North Carolina was a real, working battleship until being decommissioned in 1947 and placed on reserve for the next fourteen years. The citizens of North Carolina saved the ship from being “scrapped” and brought her back to her home state, where she remains today! Children 5 and under are free. Ages 6 – 11 are just $6.00 and adults 12 and over are $12.00. Visiting North Carolina’s very own Battleship is a great way to spend the afternoon while you learn a thing or two about the crew that lived aboard!

Airlie Gardens

Not just for the garden lovers, Airlie Gardens is a great place to catch a concert, take a relaxing stroll or take in their fabulous holiday lights display known as Enchanted Airlie. Be sure to stop by the model train and Lego Blocks during the holiday season.  As you stroll along the edge of Bradley Creek and tour the amazing gardens, check out the 467 year old “Airlie Oak.” The gardens are open from 9am to 5pm every day during the regular season. Admission is $5 for adults and $3 for children 6 – 12 years of age. A steal for what you get, if you ask me!

Jungle Rapids

If you’re hoping to cut loose and go for a wild ride or two, Jungle Rapids is a great place to let it all go! Known not only for a great round of putt-putt, but also their water park, Jungle Rapids has more than a days activities in one location. They have water slides, a huge wave pool and of course, a lazy river in the water park. There’s a giant indoor playground for the little ones and laser tag if you’re trying to escape the heat. And what theme park would be complete without a go kart grand prix? Their hours are Monday through Thursday from 10am - 10pm. Friday and Saturday from 10am - 12 (Midnight) and Sunday from 12pm - 10pm. And water park hours are 11am until 6pm daily during the season. Pricing is subject to change, so please visit their website at www.JungleRapids.com for more information.

The Children’s Museum of Wilmington

If you’re looking to escape the heat or entertain your children (or inner child) for the afternoon, The Children’s Museum is a great option. Located in historic downtown Wilmington on Orange Street, the  museum is aimed to serve children ages 1 through 10. Teaching children through role playing and hands on activities, the children’s museum has lots to do for the kids and parents! Their hours are 9am through 5pm Monday through Saturday. And from 1pm until 5pm on Sundays. Children under 12 months old are free and adults and children are $8.00.

The Beach

And don’t forget – a place where you can learn, have fun, play, and be as loud as you like – the beach! It’s one of the original family friendly places you can always visit – no hours and no admission. Just don’t forget to pay for parking if necessary. ;)

If you would like more information about these or other activities in Wilmington, please feel free to contact me at Carrie@CoastalCarolinaProperties.com.

Carrie Upchurch

910.833.4947

Must –Know Shopping Facts

So many available options for “hardwood” flooring, it’s really hard for most consumers to be a knowledgeable consumer.  Here are some facts so that you can shop with confidence.

• Solid hardwood flooring will provide decades of extraordinary beauty and durable service. Remember, solid hardwood flooring can be refinished as your taste changes or even from excessive wear and tear.
• U.S. hardwoods are truly sustainable.
• U.S. hardwoods are a natural, carbon-negative material.
• When thinking of a particular U.S. hardwood, pay attention to the hardness rating scale, which is referred to as the Janka Scale. For high traffic area, consider Oak, Maple, Cherry or Ash with higher ratings on the hardness scale.

Pre-finished solid hardwood flooring is already sanded and sealed by the manufacturer. It offers quality, quicker installation and immediate gratification. Time and money saved during the installation usually will off-set a higher material cost.

Unfinished solid hardwood flooring must be sanded and sealed right there on-site. You will have more color choices but will also require extensive preparation. Sanding, drying time and sealing will require up to five days to complete.

Engineered flooring consist of a plywood base that is covered with layers of wood, usually 1/16 to 1/8 of an inch, is good to use in bathrooms and basements where light moisture might be a concern. Always comes pre-finished. The top layer is so thin that it cannot be sanded more than a couple of times and requires a professional to do it. The less expensive choices cannot be sanded at all due to the very thin top layer.

Laminate flooring options look like wood, but really is printed paper or vinyl affixed to a wood-chip base fiberboard, covered with a clear layer to absorb daily impact. Biggest problem with this product is it cannot be repaired or sanded when scratches or dings occur.

As you consider your home improvement projects, make choices based on facts, not hype. Choose “green” material, U.S. hardwood for flooring, furniture, moldings, and cabinetry that will last.

• Here are some interesting facts…….
• Brazilian Cherry is a tropical wood known as Jatoba and Chilean Cherry is Lenga. Neither is Cherry.
• Tasmanian Oak and Australian Oak are Eucalyptus.
• Malaysian Oak is actually Rubber Wood, which is used in a lot of furniture.
• Bamboo Flooring is called hardwood and it is not. It is a grass grown in tropical regions, glued together under tremendous pressure. It often contains Urea Formaldehyde, which is classified as a probable human carcinogen.

Written by:  BlueCoast agent Janeise Collins

The southern culture in North Carolina is like none other.  The easy, hassle-free lifestyle is luring and enticing to many and the array of culinary flare tops the chart for reasons why we love living here.  In fact, Carolina Beach, NC is host to some of the best, locally owned restaurants in the region!  Here we’ve taken a moment to mention a few of our favorites.  Supporting our local restaurants and retailers is important and we remind you to shop and buy locally as often as you can.

Britt’s Doughnut Shop is the South’s most desired, home-made doughnut.  Who cares if you’re counting calories, Britt’s is just the place to cure that sweet tooth.  Be sure to get there early or expect to wait for the mouth-watering Britt’s Doughnut.  Only $99, this is definitely one of Carolina Beach’s most famous and sought after establishments.  Located at #11 Boardwalk, Carolina Beach, NC, you can just follow your nose and see why it’s considered the best around!

Michael’s Seafood Restaurant is one of the best seafood restaurants in the entire region.  Home of the multi-award winning seafood chowder, you simply must try it – your taste buds will thank you!  And, the main thing to keep in mind when going to Michael’s is the seafood is not fried - it’s prepared just how you like it - steamed, broiled or grilled - a much healthier option.  It’s always fresh off the dock seafood!  But if seafood is not your hankering, don’t worry - order up a steak, some chops or a pasta dish – they are all delectable! For sample menu or to book reservations visit  http://www.michaelscfood.com/

The Ocean Grill and Tiki Bar is a fun outdoor dining experience to have right on the beach!  With a pier, light ocean breezes and sunny skies in your favor, I can’t think of a better place to enjoy a meal!  I personally love the menu offering an array of culinary delights such as seafood tacos and other light bites to cure the hunger pains.  Visit http://www.oceangrilltiki.com/index.php

Last but not least is The Trolly Stop – hands downthe absolute best place to get a hot dog around!  The Trolly Stop has a fantastic local story and originated in 1976.  Years later, because of the mom and pop charm, the fresh ingredients and their variety of dogs, the Trolly Stop is still famous and has multiple locations in Wrightsville Beach, Carolina Beach, downtown Wilmington and Southport!  Read more about the Trolly Stop:  http://www.trollystophotdogs.com/index.php/about

CLICK HERE for more information on other Carolina Beach restaurants.