Wilmington NC Real Estate Blog

Do dog houses really exist now?  Every canine I know has moved up to the inside of the home.  And when a dog owner is faced with purchasing a new home, the needs of their canine pals may determine which address is chosen.   There are typical preferences like a nearby park or a fenced backyard but others factors can be equally important.  For example, a couple I was recently working with found their ideal house but, when they entered the master bedroom, their biggest concern was: “Where will we put Skippie’s bed?”  This lack of space was a deal breaker for them. 

Some other items to consider for finding a dog-friendly property:      

Too much mud

In new construction, sod in the backyard is often an option.   While most dogs relish in mud, the high- maintenance dogs are forced to tippy toe through the dirt when nature calls.   A grassless pasture in the back can pose a problem for unwanted dirt inside. 

Flooring

Every floor has its benefits and pitfalls, but it seems the most popular choice for dog lovers is hardwoods or tile.  Although tile and hardwoods can be cold and slippery, these surfaces are much easier to maintain and keep clean.  If your dog sheds like a Himalayan cat, carpet could make for a daily Dyson routine and carpet is also a magnet for stains and fleas.

Flight of steps

For an older dog, even walls become an issue when their vision slips. A major obstacle for your aged pet is a flight of stairs.  It makes for a painful visit to the backyard. So, in their retirement years, no steps would be an overall better choice.

A dog before them

In a resale home, every dog will wear his nose out by the second bedroom if there was another animal before him. But if she/he had a wish list, I bet they would prefer to be the first dog to show up, especially in the backyard. 

Traffic

When the yorkie acts like a greyhound for the day, there is not much you can do other than watch.  But, it is no picnic when Fido darts aimlessly in the front yard near a busy road.  The choice of living on a road less-travelled can be easier on the nerves and a better choice for resale.

Close to work

For the quick lunch time visits, living near work has always been a priority to many.  When you need to run home for a walk with puppy, who wouldn’t want to make sure it’s an easy commute?

These are just a few things to consider but I believe most dogs would be happy with just a good bed and a snack every five minutes.

Dan Betz Broker      

If you are looking for low maintenance living, all on one level, centered on a par 9 golf course, then you need to check out the town home community of Inland Greens and single family residences of Cedar Ridge at Inland Greens.  I recently put a town home for sale at 6000 Inland Greens Dr. at $144,800 and I received two offers within 24 hours.  This particular listing went fast because the Sellers updated the kitchen by removing the hanging cabinets and adding features such as granite, newer appliances, and overhead lighting.  The hall way leading to the master was also closed off to make for an expanded master closet complete with cedar paneling and closet organizers.  Other improvements included new paint and carpet in the living room and master bedrooms.  Buyers of all types are taking advantage of the ultra affordability right now and Inland Greens has a lot of bang for the buck.

The location could not be more central, close to the University of North Carolina at Wilmington and less than 5 miles to Wrightsville Beach.  Directly across the street is the very popular, contemporary non denominational Christian church known as Port City Community Church.  The shopping of Market St and the College Road corridor is only minutes down the road.

Looking closer inside the community, Inland Greens has two options of living for prospective homeowners.  The town home section features homes in the 1500 square foot range, 2 bedrooms, 2 baths and a possible 3rd bedroom or utility room depending on the floor plan configuration.  Prices range from $130,000 to $150,000 depending if you have an interior or corner unit.  All town homes come with a 2 car garage and screened porch or closed sunroom.  Most homes have a pleasing view of the par 9 course or natural areas.  As an added bonus, all the town home exteriors are maintained by the homeowners association.  The HOA also maintains landscaping, pool and clubhouse amenities and property hazard insurance.  For an additional fee, homeowners also have access to an onsite boat storage parking area.

For Buyers who want more square footage and additional yard space then it may be best to consider the single family residences of Cedar Ridge.  These residences have 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths and come in around 1800 square feet with 2 car garages.  Prices are higher than town homes in the $190,000 to $225,000 range.  Most feature a large screened porch which extends further to an outdoor patio space.  Cedar Ridge offers the best of a detached, more private residence without the fuss of a typical single family home.

If you are looking for easy living in a prime location of Wilmington NC, then you need consider Inland Greens.  Call me for your next real estate appointment.

Ben Szafran, Broker, 910-713-9323, ben@bluecoastrealestate.com

As a child I remember taking a tour of North Carolina with my family. Having a mother in the NC education system, she knew my upcoming 4^th grade curriculum would include social studies about my home state of North Carolina. She cleverly turned our family vacation into a tour of North Carolina where me and my little sister learned first hand about the various regions - the Mountains, the Piedmont, and the Coastal Plains; about Raleigh, NC our capitol; and about the southern culture that separates North Carolina from anywhere else on earth. It was my first time ever coming to the coastal plains of North Carolina and Wilmington. To this day, I remember coming over the bridge into downtown and seeing one of the most magnificent historical monuments sitting there in the river, tucked away among the marsh grass, retired after a long life in battle with big guns, canons, and all.

Years later, this historic monument is still one of my favorite places to visit and I always look forward to when we’re going downtown to walk along the riverfront. When the US Coast Guard ship, “USCGC Diligence” is in port across from where the Battleship is perched, taking a stroll on the riverfront boardwalk is a must. For directions to and for more information on the USS NC Battleship, visit http://www.battleshipnc.com/ today.

The first of 10 battleships built for the American Fleet in War World II, the USS North Carolina Battleship is still one of Wilmington, NC’s premiere historical monuments. This famous downtown attraction draws hundreds of visitors per year and remains to this day one of my favorite places to watch an outdoor movie on a clear fall night. It’s a great way to spend the day exploring the vessel that carried our US Officers and Veterans during War World II.

The USS North Carolina participated in every major naval offensive in the Pacific area in World War II. In 1942, the USS NC was designated “as protector of aircraft carriers.” By the time the war ended, the ship lost only 10 men in action and had 67 wounded and earned 15 battle stars. The USS NC was decommissioned on June 27, 1947 and for the next 14 years, placed in the Inactive Reserve Fleet located in Bayonee, NJ. In 1958 the government was considering scrapping the ship which led to a statewide campaign by the citizens of North Carolina to save the ship and bring her back home. On October 2, 1961, she arrived in her current berth and was dedicated to the WWII veterans and the 10,000 North Carolinians who died during the war.

Welcome to 248 River Woods Dr.

A Beautiful .84 acre lot in the World Class Golf Community of River Landing, in Wallace North Carolina.

The River Landing Private Gated Community is about 30 minutes to downtown Wilmington and a one hour drive to Raleigh.

This lot sits on the 3^rd green where you enjoy panoramic views of the Fairway and Ponds.

Build your dream home in this relaxing neighborhood with tree lined streets and sidewalks.

Nature trails abound covering over 1700 unspoiled acres on the Northeast Cape Fear River.

The community offers countless amenities,   including Golf Membership, swimming, tennis, boating, and gardening to name a few.

After you enjoy a golf outing, you can proceed to the  inviting clubhouse and dine in the casual but beautiful dining room.

Enjoy the relaxing lifestyle that comes with this luxurious and coveted community.

Call Barbara Katlen with BlueCoast Real Estate for more information.

910-352-6852

I want to talk about how short sales work and the steps that banks take to come to price that they will take for a certain listing.  Many buyers out there think that they can make any offer that they want to and the bank just may take it.  Here is how most banks handle offers once they are presented.

Once an offer is in the hands of a bank they order some one to go out and give them a fair market value on a property.  Sometimes they will have a local agent go out and do what is called a BPO (Broker Price Opinion) and other times they may send out an appraiser.   What they are looking for are recent sales in the area of subject properties.  Most banks want to have 3 SOLD properties within a 2-5 mile radius - the closer the better.  They want the comps to be close to the same age, size and in a similar area.  Most of the time this can easily be done.  The banks are going to also look at what is currently on the market.  They will also want to look at the 3 best ACTIVE comps that are on the market.  This will allow the banks to see what they are going up against.  

Once the bank receives this information, they can make their decision on what they will accept.  The goal of the bank is to limit their loss as much as possible.  Most of the time as a listing agent I can about tell you the price in which the bank will take.  Understanding this part of the Short Sale process will make the whole transaction less stressful.  Many buyers just think because they are headed to Foreclosure the bank will take any offer - that is just not the case.

The banks have made improvements of the short sale process over the years.  With the improvements that have been made, the process still will take a few months.  Buyers need to be very clear about the process of a short sale.  Many buyers choose not to look at Short Sales due to the long process.  The number of investors that are purchasing Short Sales are on the rise.  The reason for this is that they are able to wait for the banks decision.  

BlueCoast agent Kirby Keene - 336-399-2065

After a long day or crazy week at the office, do you get the hankering to just get out and hit something? Hit it as hard and as far as your strength will send it? Do you have an obsession to do this most every day of the week or simply once in a while when your best friends call for a day on the greens? Golf is a sport that evokes a passion in its players like none other. Simply put, golf is just you, the ball and the course. There is no team. It’s a mental game, a challenge that many men and women thrive on well into their golden years and it’s a great way to get outside and enjoy the day!

Some of the best golf in the Southeast is located here in Wilmington, NC and surrounding communities. In fact, located about five miles South of Wilmington on US Highway 17 in Leland, NC is Magnolia Greens Plantation. Recognized as one of the top public golf facilities in the southeast, Magnolia Greens Plantation centers itself around its’ 27-hole Championship Course. A venue for several PGA qualifying events, the Magnolia Greens Golf Course includes the original 18-hole course known as The Championship Course and a full scale nine-hole course known as The Azalea Course. The Championship Course is par-72 and each hole offers five sets of tees from which you can tee off. The Azalea Course is a little less demanding and can be a more low-key, enjoyable experience. The practice facilities are top-notch and are complete with a practice putting green, chipping green, and two practice bunkers. It’s one of the area’s best places to improve your game. For more information on rates and special golf packages, CLICK HERE.

Whether a lover of the game or if you just prefer to live along the beautifully landscaped golf course, there are several real estate opportunities to look at if you’re considering living or retiring in the Magnolia Greens community. Along the golf course are townhomes, condominiums, patio homes, and single family residences from which you can consider. The location allows residents to easily connect to Wilmington and Myrtle Beach while several restaurants, retail merchants, professional services and offices are located nearby. The Magnolia Greens community is complete with amenities including an 8000-sq ft. recreation center, tennis courts, and multiple swimming pools. Living within the Magnolia Greens community is a great lifestyle choice!

For more information on real estate opportunities in Magnolia Greens or elsewhere, contact Steve Gaconnier, Broker/REALTOR with BlueCoast Realty Corporation at 910-431-1181 or email him sg4868@bluecoastrealestate.com

Located just north of Figure Eight Island and just south of Camp Lejeune, Topsail Island is a great escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. A 45 minute or so drive from Wilmington, the trip is well worth the time. Free parking, plenty of space and pristine, white sandy beaches with sparkling blue waters are just a few of the great things that this 26 mile long island has to offer.

The island is known for its thick maritime forests as well as being a sanctuary for local sea turtles. The island’s population swells during the summer months, but remains quite “sleepy” during the off season.

The island is comprised of three towns; Topsail Beach, Surf City and North Topsail Beach. Surf City is the center part of the island and is where you will find most of the “action.” The year round population in Surf City is close to about 1,400 residents. On the south end of the island, you’ll find Topsail Beach. A beach haven for families, the city hosts about 500 year round residents and offers some fun for residents and visitors alike with a few activities, shops and restaurants. North Topsail Beach, formerly known as West Onslow Beach and North Topsail Shores doesn’t have much in the way of restaurants and shops and such, but does offer the seclusion that many of its residents and visitors alike enjoy. With close to 850 year round residents, the town of North Topsail is a beautiful place to live and visit!

Topsail (pronounced Top-sul) has quite a lot of history, too! The name of the island is even full of history. It is said that pirate ships would hide behind the dunes in the sound of the island waiting for merchant ships to pass by in the Atlantic, then would be ready to attack on the other end of the island. After time, merchants became aware of this hiding spot and would keep a look out for the tops of the sails, known as the topsail. Thus, being able to better defend themselves against the pirates. What pirate story would be complete without a bit of Blackbeard? Legend has it that Blackbeard himself actually hid some of his treasure along the island. In fact, prior to WWII, treasure hunters would search for gold and precious gems along the shores and maritime forests in hopes to find some of the loot for themselves!

Topsail Island has a lot of great things to offer the residents and the visitors. If you want to a beach house that reminds you of years gone by, this is your place! I have been enjoying the beaches and the streets and waters along this beautiful island since before I could walk them! This island is a part of my history, my family and my life and it holds a very special place in my heart. If you would like to know more about Topsail Island, or Topsail Island Real Estate, please feel free to email me at Carrie@CoastalCarolinaProperties.com.

Carrie Upchurch

910.833.4947

In case you haven’t noticed, we are in the dog days of summer in Wilmington NC...and there is no better place to beat the heat and humidity than on the water catching the breezes and living the Wilmington dream. My new listing in Inlet Watch near Carolina Beach is just perfect for the boater that is looking for a great one-level home in a boating community with amenities galore.

817 Berwyn offers 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, just over 2,000 square ft. Updated gourmet kitchen for anyone that loves cooking. Beautiful garden and outdoor living. Open, split floor plan. It’s perfect for families, couples, retirees--this is the home for almost every buyer. And forget the hassle of driving to your boat slip. The BEST part of living at Inlet Watch is that your boat is waiting just steps from your door in the beautiful protected marina at Inlet Watch! A 45-ft. wet slip is available separately for sale, but the sellers have just offered an incentive to the buyer that brings an acceptable offer...a one year slip rental is INCLUDED with the sale of their home.

Pick your island and hop over for a beach day. Throw out a rod and bring back a fabulous seafood dinner for the grill. Or just cruise the waterway and enjoy the view from the water. Being on the water is what people love most about our area. 817 Berwyn Rd. is the whole package! Now with the slip rental incentive, you can try out the marina and the true Inlet Watch experience for one full year. Don't let this opportunity pass you by.

Inlet Watch also has pool, tennis and clubhouse facilities for Yacht Club members. And just recently, non-yacht club members living in the community the opportunity to pay a very low yearly fee to use the facility. When you’re not enjoying the Inlet Watch facilities or out on your boat, owners can enjoy the best of what the area has to offer. This neighborhood is situated near beautiful Pleasure Island which offers the best of the North Carolina coast: sun, fun, sand, dining, history at Fort Fisher, and the renowned North Carolina Aquarium at Kure Beach. Grab a world famous Britt’s doughnut on the boardwalk or take the ferry over from Kure Beach to Southport for the day.

817 Berwyn Rd. is available for viewing. Please feel free to contact me for a showing today!

Shannon Andrews - 910-352-2759

Lights. Camera. Action! Hollywood East, a.k.a. “Wilmywood” is one of the hottest filming locations around and a bit under the radar to most. Tourists and locals often don’t realize how many star studded celebrities walk the streets of Wilmington while on location filming television shows and blockbuster movies. Screen Gem Studios is a 150,000 square foot, 50 acre film production studio located right here in town on 23^rd street.  Here are a couple of big productions taking place right now that is worth catching when they make their big screen debuts:

Iron Man 3- The biggest production to hit Hollywood East, the third movie of this huge marvel franchise starring big name celebrities including Robert Downy Jr., Uma Thurman, Don Cheedle, Sir Ben Kingsley. This movie starting filming in April of this year and continues to film into the fall. Iron Man 3 hit’s the theatres on May 3^rd, 2013!

Safe Haven- This movie began it’s filming in Southport in late June starring Josh Duhamel and Julianne Hough. The movie is based on the Nicolas Sparks novel about a young women questioning her past and her two relationships where she has to choose which life path she will endeavor. This romantic movie hit’s the theatres February 8^th 2013, just in time for Valentines Day.

Revolution- This is one of NBC’s newest shows to hit the fall line up premiering September 17^th 2012. The show is created by J.J. Abrams and is about a world where all energy forms have vanished leaving behind nothing but darkness.

Revenge- Last but certainly not least, this is one of my personal favorite! This thrilling ABC production has just begun filming it’s explosive second season. Set in the Hampton’s, Emily Thorne (Emily Van Camp) is still plotting her revenge against the very powerful Grayson Family, the first seasons finale was this past April leaving fans on the edge of their set to see what happens next. Be sure and catch the premieres on September 30^th.

For more info on area filming check out:

http://www.wilmingtonfilm.com

Written By:  BlueCoast agent Carly Gravely

Conveniently located just moments from beaches and shopping the homes in the gated community of Hidden Pointe at the Lake have it all.

As you arrive at 2544 Bridgewater Cove you will notice the beautifully landscaped yard with aggregate driveways and walkways. For your convenience the yard comes complete with an irrigation system and lawn care is included in the HOA fees.

This 2,132 sq ft brick home has a two car garage, three large bedrooms (one of which can be used as a study) and two baths and is anointed with numerous upgrades that include hardwood floors and a lovely family room with vaulted ceilings and fireplace.

Not to be missed is the spacious master bedroom with a 12 x 8 walk-in closet and master bath with its dual vanities with cultured marble tops, jetted garden tub and glass shower.

The kitchen features upgraded cabinets, a bar and a breakfast nook that opens to the family room. Enjoy a quick breakfast in the kitchen nook or linger in the sunroom with Easy Breeze windows.

The many amenities for the residents of Hidden Pointe on the lake include a paved 1.4 mile walking trail and 10 acre lake with picnic area. This beautiful wooded community also features a pool and clubhouse.

This well maintained home can be purchased for $299,000.

For a personal showing of this home contact listing agent Jan Justice at 919-906-7302.