Raleigh NC Real Estate Blog

Utilize this site for all of your Raleigh Area (Wake and Johnston Counties) Real Estate needs.

May 16, 2008

Hello Everyone!

As you may imagine, things remain in fast gear at Devalle Realty. I'm definitely not complaining! But it has me falling short with updating my blog. If you'd like to contribute anything at all - for everyone to know about - just pop me an email and I'll be glad to post it... with my approval of course. I'm sure everyone wants to know about what's going on in and around the beautiful Triangle Area. Just put in the subject line "For Raleigh Blog". Thanks in advance and look forward to your contributions!

Here's something going on right now... check out today's printing of The News & Observer. Life, etc section cover reads, "Stars in our eyes". The N&O is running its own talent contest. Our very own version of American Idol. You can be a part by going to http://share.triangle.com/star2008 and vote for your favorite.

Please note: real estate articles will continue to be posted in the Real Estate Resourses section of this website. Enjoy!

Thanks again! Duane

March 12, 2007

Here's another good one for you!

Pro Athletes' Homes Can Be Tough Sell

Daily Real Estate News | March 6, 2007

Over-the-top amenities that pro athletes choose for their homes can make reselling them to mere mortals a challenge.

From Miami to San Francisco, the real estate market has a glut of splashy homes of professional athletes, and other home owners with the cash, to tailor their homes to their own tastes.

For instance, Red Sox slugger Manny Ramirez can’t unload his 4,500-square-foot condo in Boston. The $6.9 million asking price might be too high, but another factor could be the bedroom decked out like Fenway Park. The room includes a mural of the field with the trademark Citgo sign in the background and twin beds made to look like the Green Monster outfield wall, with authentic paint and netting.

With many homes to choose from, buyers are unlikely to pay a premium for amenities they don’t want.

“‘Highly personalized’ is a nice way of saying, ‘Your taste isn’t what people want,’” says Lanse Robb, an associate with LandVest Realty in Massachusetts.

Source: The Wall Street Journal, Ben Casselman (03/02/07)

February 3, 2007

Here are some quick fixes to sell a home faster, according to home stager Lori Matzke, founder and president of Centerstagehome.com located in Minneapolis:

Paint the trim, columns, front door, and the light fixture.
Replace the storm door with a full-view one.
Clean all the window screens.
Add new mulch and a potted plant by the front door.
Remove mirrors from over the fireplace so buyers focus on the fireplace.
Move furniture 1 1/2 to 2 feet away from the walls to create the illusion of more space.
Get rid of any movable storage pieces in the kitchen and take all the clutter off the refrigerator.
Clean and regrout the bathroom floor tile.
Replace dated bathroom vanities with trendy (and economical) pedestal sinks.
Put colorful bedding and matching window treatments in all the bedrooms.

These suggestions are certainly simple and inexpensive, yet provide the impact to generate offers.

Give me a call at 919-201-1663 for additional selling tips. - Duane

January 13, 2007

Thought you might get a kick out of this statistic...

The Most Expensive Home of 2006

According to the Institute for Luxury Home Marketing, the most expensive house sold in 2006 was an English-style, 10,000 square foot Alpine, New Jersey mansion complete with guest cottages, pool, and tennis courts.

The estate is on 63 sprawling acres just five miles from Manhattan.

The price tag? A whopping $58 million.

It was Advanced Photonix CEO Richard Kurtz who bought the number one seller from Henry Clay Frick II.

Things must be going well at Advanced Photonix!

Here's a short article concerning foul weather home sales. Some nice suggestions...

Daily Real Estate News | January 4, 2007

5 Tips for Selling a House in Foul Weather

Selling a home during the cold-weather months can be a challenge. Here are some tips for handling a sale in the dark winter months:

Don’t wait for spring. Point out to sellers that postponing can be the wrong choice when it means they must continue to pay the mortgage, insurance, and utility bills.
Get rid of the holiday decorations. “Holiday decor says to buyers that you aren’t prepared to move out so they can move in. It clutters and detracts from the home,” says Mark Nash, a real estate professional and author of the forthcoming book, Real Estate A-Z for Buying & Selling a Home.
Clean and light. Render the place dust-free and if necessary paint the walls with a light color. Linen tones are often the best.
Be creative. Nash, who sells homes in Chicago, had success last year selling an ordinary house quickly after he displayed poster-size photos of the home’s garden in full bloom near the windows.
Be realistic. No amount of creative marketing can overcome an overly steep price tag.

Source: Universal Press Syndicate, Ellen James Martin (01/04/07)

December 23, 2006

Bill provides tax relief for homebuyers who don't have 20%

Earlier this month, the United States Congress passed the Tax Relief and Health Care Act of 2006.

First time homebuyers, in particular, should take note that a provision in the act will allow them to deduct the cost of mortgage insurance premiums from their taxes.

Typically when the homebuyer has less than 20% as a downpayment, they are required by the lender to obtain mortgage insurance.

Paying the additional expense can often be difficult for those without the ability to raise 20% for a downpayment. The bill is intended to provide some relief to those more likely needing. An income maximum of $100,000 per household ($50,000 for individuals) is written into the bill.

The bill applies to homes purchased in 2007 only.

Let's face it, every little bit helps. Always consult your tax advisor regarding tax matters.

Your Realtor,
Duane

December 10, 2006

One of my listings is back on the market. Take a look at the movie tour which is on the "Featured Properties" page of this website. Go ahead and click on the "Small Town Charm" title and enjoy a look at this wonderful home.

This home is located in Wake Forest, which is northeast of Raleigh. With the new Highway 540, getting around the Raleigh area is much more convenient for those living in Wake Forest.

List price is $129,900. Its worth a look!

Duane - "For this one, I represent the seller."

December 4, 2006

We have year-a-round golf in Raleigh, North Carolina!

Those who currently live in other areas of the country may not know we play golf all year long. Short spurts of winter weather may shut courses down for a couple to several days, but the southern warm fronts which undoubtedly follow allow those very same courses to open days later.

To learn more about the wonderful golfing opportunities which exist in and around Raleigh, visit this site. The site provides links to golf clubs which provide public access.

The Raleigh area also possesses wonderful private clubs, with a host of additional amenities.

Contact me and I'll let you know more about the area private clubs.

- Your Realtor, Duane

November 7, 2006

Check out this article out...

Some advice you may have received regarding home inspections may not be all that good. Have you heard this one?

"New home? You don't need to inspect."

Home Inspections - Do It Right

October 28, 2006

North Carolina State Fair posts nearly 800,000

For those moving into the area, you can look forward to attending the North Carolina State Fair - held annually. The largest fair in the state wrapped up last weekend.

This year's theme was "Feed Your Senses". With the great entertainment, food, rides and exhibits you certainly could get a taste of it all. Nearly 800,000 visitors enjoyed the fair this year.

To learn more about this outstanding event, visit www.ncstatefair.org for all of the details.

- Your Realtor, Duane

October 16, 2006

Fall is here, temperatures are falling, so here are a few tips to prepare your home for the winter season...

Do a thorough walk-through in and around your home. Search for leaks and feel for drafts. Seal all areas to prevent heat from escaping the house. Apply durable weatherstriping around exterior doors, if the existing stripping is damaged or showing gaps.
Get your heat pump serviced to ensure its operating properly and not adding unnecessary dollars to your heating bill. Replace air filters as recommended by the manufacturer. Vacuum all intake vents to make sure they a free of dust and debris. Pay particular attention to where furniture is positioned. Make certain floor ducts are not covered by furniture pieces.
Insulate basement and crawlspace water heaters and exposed hot water pipes. Also check exposed air duct tubing to ensure there are not insulation gaps.
When not in use, close the fireplace damper to prevent heat loss. For wood burning fireplaces, chimneys should be checked for soot building-up.
Close vents and doors to any unused rooms.
Consider replacing incandescent light bulbs with energy efficient compact fluorescent lighting (CFLs). The operating cost could be lowered by as much as 25% by replacing a 60-watt incandescent bulb with an equivalent light 13-watt CFL bulb.

- Your Realtor, Duane

October 8, 2006

Here's a new listing - MLS# 89258. This home is just right for anyone wishing to live in or around the Wake Forest Historic Downtown area for under $130,000! Great neighborhood. A featured video tour is up and running on my "featured properties" page. Take a look, I'm sure you'll be impressed.

- Duane

September 28, 2006

The list price has been reduced to $139,900 - MLS# 880212. Take a tour of this outstanding townhome on my "featured properties" page. This one might be perfect for you!

- Duane

Check out this article. Florida now outpaces New York.

More Floridians moving to Carolinas

Experts see rise in 'half-backs' -- people moving south, then halfway back home

Published Thu, Sep 21, 2006

By JENNY BURNS
The (Myrtle Beach) Sun News

Floridians are leaving the Sunshine State -- which they say is overpriced and too hurricane-prone -- and heading to South Carolina and North Carolina.

Florida has taken the top spot as the Carolinas' largest in-migration market -- overtaking New York in a 2005 survey of those wanting to move to the Carolinas by the Center for Carolina Living, a group that promotes relocation.

Florida ranked fourth in 2004. In the past 20 years, it ranked sixth or lower. New York, which ranked first in 2004, dropped to second in 2005.

"Florida actually beat out New York, the perennial way-out-front ranker for 20 years," said Pat Mason, co-founder for Center for Carolina Living. "Florida numbers tripled and New York doubled. We used to have one big, robust market, and now we have two big, robust markets. And it appears that there's enough momentum to keep that whether the storms hit here or not."

The research is proof to Realtors and builders that what they've been seeing for the past couple of years -- more buyers from Florida -- is not just a theory, it's a trend.

"It does confirm that the half-back syndrome is definitely taking place," said Tom Maeser, market analyst and president of the Fortune Academy of Real Estate.

The real estate industry calls them "half-backs" -- Northeasterners who move to Florida, end up unhappy, and move "halfway back" to South and North Carolina.

Builders say these buyers want a change of seasons, lower cost of living and closer location to family and friends back home.

Denise Sanders, real estate agent with Century 21 Broadhurst, said she's had a significant number of calls from Florida in the last year.

"They seem to be worried about the cost of living overall (in Florida). Their taxes are higher and a few of them think that we're a lot less hurricane-prone. In most cases, they can get more here for their buck," Sanders said.

Home Maintenance Tips

September 9, 2006

A few home maintenance tips to retain your home's value and help avoid possible costly repairs.

Check the attic or roof crawl spaces after heavy rains for water leaking or damage.
Direct gutter downspouts away from the home and foundation. This will minimize moisture reducing the chances of damage to the foundation and lessen the likelihood of termites and other pests. Also remove leaves and debris from gutters and downspouts to avoid overflow and poor drainage.
Fill small cracks in the driveway to prevent further damage by erosion.
Inspect the exterior siding, windows and doors for deteriorated wood, missing chaulk and gaps. Be prepared to re-chaulk those areas.
Repair any water leaks and even the slightest dripping. Plumbing leaks can waste several gallons or more of water a day.
Have the home's heating and air conditioning systems checked annually to make certain they are operating properly. Replacing filters monthly during use also encourages the likelihood of an efficiently running system.
Drain the water from your hotwater heater annually to remove sediment which could damage the unit.

Avoid Overpaying Property Tax

September 3, 2006

When you receive your property tax assessment, check for accuracy. Mistakes in assessments can happen which may increase your property tax bill significantly. Looks for errors such as incorrect age, square footage, lot size, floor plan, etc. Compare your assessed value with your neighbors' homes.

If you believe your home is over-assessed, consider filing for a tax reduction appeal with your local tax assessor's office. The assessment value is the only part of your tax bill that you may appeal. The other factor is the tax rate, which is set by local officials and cannot be changed. Start your research as soon as you receive the assessment and file the appeal before the deadline.

A Great Day Trip or Overnighter from Raleigh

September 1, 2006

A two-hour drive down interstate 40 enables Raleigh area residents to enjoy everything the Atlantic Beach and surrounding area provides.

A visit to The North Carolina Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores is a must do. The newly renovated aquarium presents shipwrecks, sharks, river otters and other wonders of the water. A 70-foot replica of a coral-encrusted World War II German submarine, the U-352, lists to one side on the bottom of the 306,000 gallon aquatic display. A 60-foot viewing window offers supurb views of fierce-looking tiger sharks, as well as, stingrays, barracudas, schools of fish and other creatures which typically habitat shipwrecks. The new theme, "From North Carolina's Mountains to the Sea", takes visitors on an aquatic journey from the state's peaks to the Atlantic Coast. Five galleries - Mountain, Piedmont, Coastal Plain, Tide Waters and Ocean - along with over 2,500 animals help illustrate the aquatic environments unique to each zone. For the admission of only $8 for adults, the aquarium should be a highlight of your visit. For more information visit www.ncaquariums.com.

This area known as the "Crystal Coast", boasts beautiful beaches. Atlantic Beach has public access, shower and restroom amenities. Cape Lookout National Seashore is a more remote get away. The three barrier islands that make up Cape Lookout National Seashore are undeveleped yet readily accessable by private boats and public ferries. Popular activities include fishing, camping, kayaking and collecting sea shells. The Cape Lookout Lighthouse is a big draw. The Keepers' Quarters contains a small museum and bookstore. Picnic tables, a cross-island boardwalk, comfort station and a hand-pump for drinking water complete the amenities available. To learn more visit http://www.nps.gov/calo/

The Wild Horses of Shackleford Banks delight visitors to Morehead City and Beaufort. Often called "ponies" because of their diminutive size, these wild horses live on the island called Shackleford Banks. Local historians believe these horses are descended from Spanish mustangs that swam to shore from shipwrecks more than 400 years ago. On your visit, will you spot one? A website dedicated to the preservation of the ponies is www.shacklefordhorses.org.

Also enjoy golfing, dining, and shopping in and around the quaint historic downtown areas while on your visit. For more area information visit http://www.vgnet.com/cc/.

Money Magazine suggestions when dealing with a repair person...

Money - August,06

8 Things to Say to Any Repair Person

Sound too naive and you might as well hand over your checkbook. Here's everything you need to spell out in that first phone call.

"I was referred by Joe Smith." - Name drop; a company is less likely to rip off the friend of a good customer.

"My hot-water heater is leaking, and I think it needs patching." - Explain what's broken, using technical terms as much as possible (do an online search to find proper names). Say what needs to be done, if you know. By doing so, you narrow the scope of the repair-in this case, patching the water heater instead of replacing it-and therefore reduce the cost.

"This is the second time this has happened The first time..." - If there's a history of problems with the item, say so.

"Is there a way I can fix this myself?" - Sometimes he'll tell you, particularly if he's busy.

"What are your rates? Will there be a trip fee or minimum?" - Be clear on the payment system. Most companies have a base charge of $50 to $100, plus an hourly rate. But remember: Verbal estimates are nonbinding.

"Can I e-mail a photo?" - This may save you a wasted visit fee if the repairman is the wrong person for the job.

"Can I buy the supplies myself?" - If so, you could save yourself the 20% markup and the hourly rate for shopping time.

"Are you insured?" - He should answer yes. He may also need to be licensed, depending on your state's requirements. Check them first yourself at contractors-license.org. The site also lists the local licensing agencies, which you can call to verify that a contractor is legit.

Everyone likes a design tip or two...

Daily Real Estate News / July 24, 2006

Decorating Tips that Pay Off

Laurie Smith, star of The Learning Channel’s popular “Trading Spaces” TV show, recently wrote a book about her own home renovation.

Discovering Home With Laurie Smith: Find Your Personal Style offers these tips for designing on a dime:

Start with the layout. Take everything out of the room. Find a focal point. Then move the furniture back in, placing it around that spot.
Don’t scrimp on lighting. The right light fixture can make all the difference.
Line draperies. A lining, and even an inner lining, gives draperies shape and they’ll last longer, which saves money in the long run.
Paint the walls last. If you paint them first, you’ll be decorating around the color and that’s a headache.

Source: The Dallas Morning News, Brittany Edwards (07/23/06)

Check this out...

July 17, 2006

Under federal law, each of the major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian and TransUnion) must give you one free credit report a year. This is the place to get your free credit report - AnnualCreditReport.com.

Carolina housing still strong...

June 27, 2006

Although many areas of the country are experiencing housing slow downs, it appears North Carolina is not one of those areas. Read the recent atricle I've attached to learn more.

N.C. Existing Home Sales for May Post Double Digit Growth

GREENSBORO, N.C. - North Carolina Association of Realtors - June 16, 2006

N.C. existing home sales posted double digit-growth in May, increasing 15 percent from April and 4 percent from this time last year. According to statistics compiled by the North Carolina Association of REALTORS®, 13,308 residential units were sold in May. Total sales dollars for the month were $2,879,095,941 and the average existing home sales price was up 3 percent to $216,343.

More than 54,400 units have been sold on a year-to-date basis. The average sales price increased 2 percent over the same time period to $208,214.

Greenville (46), Wilson (46), Fayetteville (44) and Asheville (40) lead the state in positive growth, posting the strongest year-to-date increase in total sales dollars. The largest year-to-date price appreciation was seen in Brunswick and Goldsboro at 37 and 34 percent, respectively.

Unlike 2005, which saw mountain and coastal regions leading the state in positive growth, many previously hot coastal areas are cooling down in both unit sales and prices. Coastal regions seeing a downturn in total dollar sales include the Outer Banks and Brunswick County at -61 and -45, respectively.

Schools, Schools, Schools...

June 20, 2006

Most parents are very interested in the quality of their children's education. Check out the links on this page. You'll find everything you need, and more, relating to Raleigh Area schools! Raleigh Area Education Page

One Worth Taking a Look At!

June 5, 2006

Check out this real estate property which recently hit the market. It's absolutely charming! You may view a video tour on the Raleigh Real Estate Featured Properties Page.

Raleigh NC - the State Capital

May 26, 2006

Raleigh, the state capital, is located in the central part of the state of North Carolina. Raleigh and the surrounding area has an abundance to offer. Click on the following links to learn more...

Are You a Boomer?

May 19, 2006

This article discusses how baby boomers feel about real estate...

Boomers Buy Real Estate to Ease Financial Concerns
(May 19, 2006)

Many baby boomers feel financially strapped and worry about how they'll be able to retire, so they turn to real estate as a means of accumulating wealth, a study shows. According to Baby Boomers and Real Estate: Today and Tomorrow, a study conducted for the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS® by Harris Interactive, boomers overwhelmingly channel their concerns over finances into real estate.

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By Chuck Paustian for REALTOR® Magazine Online

Avoid the Pitfalls

May 14, 2006

The following buyer tip is a great one. It's titled "10 Biggest Buyer Mistakes in Purchasing Real Estate". Make sure to stay clear of the...

10 Biggest Buyer Mistakes in Purchasing Real Estate
1. Not doing your homework. Knowledge is power. Tremendous information is available on the Internet. There is no excuse for entering the market unprepared.

2. Trying to make a shrewd investment. People need to buy based on what fits their family. Don't try to guess what will happen to the market.

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Daily Real Estate Market Updates?

May 9, 2006

Here's a great section of the site which helps you get prepared to purchase. Scroll to the end of the page for a link to daily mortgage rate moves and real estate market updates. Updated every day at noon, this site gives you a professional insight to market moves and trends. Market updates and more!

Relocating to Raleigh?

May 2, 2006

Thinking of relocating to Raleigh NC? Take a look at these links loaded with tons of information - schools, demographics, helpful moving tips and more! Just give me (Duane Devalle) a call if you'd like to discuss anything at all.
You may reach me at 919-201-1663 or pop me an email at ddevalle@ddevallerealty.com.

Give me a try - I'd love to be your Raleigh NC Real Estate Agent!

April 24, 2006

Gain an understanding of what I will do for you. Devalle Realty Website will get you started on your way to your next Real Estate investment or if selling get you the profit you seek. If you have any questions, just give me (Duane Devalle) a call at 919-201-1663. As they say, no question is too silly. I look forward to hearing from you!

Raleigh NC Real Estate and "Half-backs"...

April 19, 2006

Are you a "Half-back"? I am! Those who have moved from the northern portions of our country to the South, and then later to the Raleigh NC area are now being dubbed "Half-backs". After fleeing the harsh winters of the northern states in search of warmer temperatures, these folks (my wife and I included) have found the climate of the Carolina's even more enjoyable than those of Florida and Texas. With mild winters and cooler, drier summers, many are finding Raleigh the perfect place to live.

Our travels started in New England, turned south to Orlando and San Antonio, and then finally to this great place known as the Triangle. Call me if you're interested in finding a home in the Raleigh area.

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