Charlotte Lake Norman Homes, Info and Real Estate

Homeowner Groups Sue to Force Foreclosures - Bloomberg

2011-08-24T05:01:00.000-07:00

Like it - One for the good guys.

Homeowner Groups Sue to Force Foreclosures - Bloomberg

Lime Energy moves HQ to Huntersville, will hire 50 to 75 - Charlotte Business Journal

2011-08-23T06:43:00.000-07:00

Lime Energy moves HQ to Huntersville, will hire 50 to 75 - Charlotte Business Journal

2011-08-16T19:51:00.001-07:00

Low Home Prices Mean It's Cheaper To Buy Than To Rent In Many Cities: via HuffPost

Good analysis..once again it seems the gov chooses easy way out..for them

2011-08-16T02:39:00.001-07:00

Will Renting Foreclosures Stabilize the Housing Market?

2011-08-15T16:13:00.001-07:00

Top of the List: Residential Neighborhoods http://www.bizjournals.com/charlotte/blog/top_25_list/2011/08/top-of-the-list-residential.html?ana=handmark

McCrory: Transit funding climate is ‘tough,’ but towns have an edge | DavidsonNews.net

2011-08-14T11:52:00.000-07:00

McCrory: Transit funding climate is ‘tough,’ but towns have an edge | DavidsonNews.net

Town, bank near compromise on Davidson East development | Huntersville Herald

2011-08-14T11:51:00.000-07:00

Town, bank near compromise on Davidson East development | Huntersville Herald

Housing Prices Unchanged For First Time In Nearly Year: S&P/Case Shiller

2011-07-26T13:24:00.000-07:00

Housing Prices Unchanged For First Time In Nearly Year: S&P/Case Shiller

2011-07-19T23:28:00.001-07:00

North Carolina among cheapest in country for mortgage closing costs http://www.bizjournals.com/charlotte/news/2011/07/18/north-carolina-among-cheapest-in.html?ana=handmark

Marine commission to explore licenses for boat renters | DavidsonNews.net

2011-07-12T04:28:00.000-07:00

Marine commission to explore licenses for boat renters | DavidsonNews.net

Foreclosure.com Blog · Some unemployed homeowners can now miss a year of mortgage payments without threat of foreclosure

2011-07-10T07:06:00.000-07:00

Foreclosure.com Blog · Some unemployed homeowners can now miss a year of mortgage payments without threat of foreclosure

2011-07-06T14:05:00.001-07:00

NYT: Home Prices Drop to 2004 Level

New HOA legislation will take effect Oct. 1 | CharlotteObserver.com & The Charlotte Observer Newspaper

2011-07-02T05:39:00.000-07:00

New HOA legislation will take effect Oct. 1 | CharlotteObserver.com & The Charlotte Observer Newspaper

2011-06-29T05:03:00.001-07:00

bizjournals mobile: Charlotte: Charlotte home prices hit four-year low in April

If the feds finally force the banks to mod instead of foreclosing market will bottom..anywhere a quarter and a half of all sales are distressed..if that stops we hve seen the bottom

2011-06-28T07:41:00.001-07:00

Foreclosure.com Blog · Fannie Mae foreclosures on HomePath offer buyers and agents incentives

when you can buy and get good positive cash flow the usually is a buy indicator

2011-06-28T07:33:00.001-07:00

Foreclosure.com Blog · It’s the best time to buy real estate, not rent, since 1986

Market is bottoming

2011-06-28T07:25:00.001-07:00

News Headlines

Fishing with Gus: 11 reminders to keep boaters safe on Lake Norman | Huntersville Herald

2011-06-27T05:59:00.000-07:00

Fishing with Gus: 11 reminders to keep boaters safe on Lake Norman | Huntersville Herald

Home builders group holds ‘green products’ show | Huntersville Herald

2011-06-27T05:23:00.000-07:00

Home builders group holds ‘green products’ show | Huntersville Herald

Is It Time to Buy a Home? - WSJ.com

2011-06-26T11:06:00.000-07:00

Is It Time to Buy a Home? - WSJ.com

Real estate: It's time to buy again - Fortune Finance

2011-03-28T16:54:00.000-07:00

Real estate: It's time to buy again - Fortune Finance: "- Sent using Google Toolbar"

2011-03-28T16:53:00.000-07:00

Region's home prices continue to fall - CharlotteObserver.com

2010-12-02T16:23:00.000-08:00

The rate of decline has slowed

Region's home prices continue to fall - CharlotteObserver.com: "- Sent using Google Toolbar"

Trudeau to North Carolina? - AdirondackDailyEnterprise.com | News, Sports, Jobs, Saranac Lake region — Adirondack Daily Enterprise

2010-11-28T17:15:00.000-08:00

Trudeau to North Carolina? - AdirondackDailyEnterprise.com | News, Sports, Jobs, Saranac Lake region — Adirondack Daily Enterprise: "- Sent using Google Toolbar"

N.C. foreclosure sales drop 42% | Charlotte Business Journal

2010-11-28T17:06:00.000-08:00

N.C. foreclosure sales drop 42% | Charlotte Business Journal: "- Sent using Google Toolbar"

Housing Inventory Grows - Developments - WSJ

2010-08-08T08:11:00.000-07:00

Charlotte Inventory slight drop, good news

Housing Inventory Grows - Developments - WSJ: "- Sent using Google Toolbar"

Comm weekly review

2010-08-01T05:50:00.001-07:00

&nbdip;Commercial Real Estate Week In Review | Commercial Real Estate Finance&nbdip;

Foreclosure study reveals 27 percent average discount on bank-owned homes

2010-07-31T13:43:00.000-07:00

Foreclosure study reveals 27 percent average discount on bank-owned homes

‘Donald Trump Eyes The Point at Lake Norman’ - Business News - CharlotteBusiness.com

2010-07-31T05:57:00.000-07:00

‘Donald Trump Eyes The Point at Lake Norman’ - Business News - CharlotteBusiness.com: "- Sent using Google Toolbar"

Catching waves on Lake Norman: Wakeboarding, skating gain popularity | WCNC.com | Charlotte News, Weather, Traffic, and Sports | WCNC.com | News for Charlotte, NC

2010-07-31T05:51:00.000-07:00

Catching waves on Lake Norman: Wakeboarding, skating gain popularity | WCNC.com | Charlotte News, Weather, Traffic, and Sports | WCNC.com | News for Charlotte, NC: "- Sent using Google Toolbar"

Wells global starts office in charlotte

2010-07-28T12:46:00.001-07:00

&nbdip;bizjournals mobile: Charlotte Business Journal: Wells Fargo establishes global-banking office in Charlotte&nbdip;

Home prices in many areas of U.S. are still falling | Business | Dallas Business, Texas ...

2010-07-27T06:23:00.000-07:00

Charlotte residential holding with slight increase

Home prices in many areas of U.S. are still falling | Business | Dallas Business, Texas ...: "- Sent using Google Toolbar"

Seeking Clarity: 10 Quick Observations On the Distressed Property Buying Market - CoStar Group

2010-04-25T10:17:00.000-07:00

Seeking Clarity: 10 Quick Observations On the Distressed Property Buying Market - CoStar Group

Fair Game - Why Can’t Reform Apply to the Biggest Banks? - NYTimes.com

2010-04-25T05:45:00.000-07:00

Fair Game - Why Can’t Reform Apply to the Biggest Banks? - NYTimes.com

RelocateAmerica: Charlotte among top places to live - Charlotte Business Journal:

2010-04-25T05:33:00.000-07:00

RelocateAmerica: Charlotte among top places to live - Charlotte Business Journal:

Absolute Auction - 24+ acres of Prime Corporate Business Land

2010-04-25T05:32:00.000-07:00

Absolute Auction - 24+ acres of Prime Corporate Business Land

18047 West Catwba Ave, Huntersville, NC | Powered by Postlets

2010-04-24T15:59:00.000-07:00

18047 West Catwba Ave, Huntersville, NC | Powered by Postlets

Home values on the rise - Charlotte Business Journal:

2009-12-09T19:36:00.000-08:00

Home values on the rise - Charlotte Business Journal:

2009-12-09T19:35:00.000-08:00

Home values on the rise - Charlotte Business Journal:

Bryton In Huntersville, Huntersville Homes

2009-11-22T11:24:00.001-08:00

Bryton In Huntersville NC (edit/delete)

Bryton In Huntersville NC still is a go and might begin within a few months. The massive 4000 homes giant 'village' is planned to exemplify the concept on development incorporating the characteristics of the some of the best and most beautiful towns and villages in the country. Initial work will begin relocating the track for the future commuter rail that is planned to intersect the community.
Check out the concept PDF here:

Article form Charlotte Observer 11/22/09

American Asset Corp- Bryton

Streetcar meetings begin tonight - CharlotteObserver.com

2009-11-17T16:30:00.000-08:00

Streetcar meetings begin tonight - CharlotteObserver.com

More High-End Homes Headed to Foreclosure - Developments - WSJ

2009-11-16T04:23:00.000-08:00

More High-End Homes Headed to Foreclosure - Developments - WSJ

Charlotte home sales up 13.6% - Charlotte Business Journal:

2009-11-11T15:53:00.000-08:00

Charlotte home sales up 13.6% - Charlotte Business Journal:

I-485 plan: Tap builder cash - CharlotteObserver.com

2009-11-10T03:53:00.000-08:00

This will cut at least 30 min off the beach trip.

I-485 plan: Tap builder cash - CharlotteObserver.com

Real Estate Listing Photos- Charlotte, Lake Norman, Uptown, South Charlotte

2009-11-09T11:42:00.000-08:00

Real Estate Listing Photos - Charlotte, Huntersville, Lake Norman Area, South Charlotte, Denver, Concord NC - LKN Imaging available to Realtors, For Sale By Owners, Banks etc.

Attention Realtors & Home Sellers:

Need Professional wide angle shots for your listing? Please contact kathy@lknimaging.com or call 704 577 6858 or text.

They will provide 20 wide angle 10 mega-pixel shots for $80.00, emailed within a day, MLS ready with a Picasa Web Album available to view online, showing more photos and any other images you would like to add (floors plans) etc. Additional services are available, brochures, flyer's, e flyer's, very well priced. Please inquire.

According to NAR 87% of homes searches begin online, if so, what is the first criteria a prospective buyer is looking at when they begin their search? PICTURES!

According to NAR 87% of homes searches begin online, if so, what is the first criteria a prospective buyer is looking at when they begin their search? PICTURES!

They are the first gate your property or listing must pass, and they can make or break the number of inquires or showings if they don't effectively market the property.

Listing photos require staging, lighting and correct angles to promote the structure and the spaces within it, not whats in it. There is a place for that, but its not primary.

Every home and property has strong points and good sight-lines that must be captured to ensure a solid marketing effort.

Don't have a 10 mega pixel SLR, wide angle lenses, and an eye for angles and light? Seriously consider having it done. Depending on the cost it can be a serious bargain when taken into account the influence it has on promoting your property.

Remember a picture tells a thousand words!

Best Of Luck,

Nick

Kathy Stallard:

Art background, NYC's School OF Visual Arts.

As an added convenience with the permission of the owner through their agent I will accompany the photographer with my Supra Key and neither agent or owner need take the time.Call and its done!

Full Service Listing Photos.

Website Coming soon!

House votes to expand homebuyer tax credit - CharlotteObserver.com

2009-11-05T12:51:00.000-08:00

House votes to expand homebuyer tax credit - CharlotteObserver.com

Charlotte/Lake Norman Area News

2009-11-04T05:26:00.000-08:00

Nice Post from My one of my agents Mike Carpino.

Charlotte/Lake Norman Area News

N.C. proposals would hinder foreclosures

2009-11-04T04:20:00.000-08:00

N.C. proposals would hinder foreclosures

Site Selection Online

2009-11-03T17:05:00.000-08:00

North Carolina #1 In Biz Climate - 9 years!

Site Selection Online

Federal stimulus money secured for greenway - CharlotteObserver.com

2009-11-03T16:35:00.000-08:00

Love Greenways!

Federal stimulus money secured for greenway - CharlotteObserver.com

Lake Norman marina approved - CharlotteObserver.com

2009-11-03T16:34:00.000-08:00

Lake Norman marina approved - CharlotteObserver.com

Existing-home sales continue to rise - Charlotte Business Journal:

2009-11-02T17:08:00.000-08:00

Existing-home sales continue to rise - Charlotte Business Journal:

US "Turning The Corner"

2009-11-02T04:35:00.000-08:00

Fla bottoms and halfbacks close in Carolinas

US "Turning The Corner"

2009-11-02T04:32:00.000-08:00

Foreclosure.com Blog · Weekly Twitter Digest from Foreclosure.com (2009-10-31)

2009-10-31T06:39:00.000-07:00

Foreclosure.com Blog · Weekly Twitter Digest from Foreclosure.com (2009-10-31)

Real Property, Real Returns - Winterizing Your Portfolio 2009 - Special Report - CNBC.com

2009-10-30T15:41:00.000-07:00

Real Property, Real Returns - Winterizing Your Portfolio 2009 - Special Report - CNBC.com

Growth issues at top in Huntersville races - CharlotteObserver.com

2009-10-30T06:28:00.000-07:00

Growth issues at top in Huntersville races - CharlotteObserver.com

AS SOME TOP METRO FORECLOSURE ACTIVITY RATES DECREASE, NEW FORECLOSURE HOT SPOTS EMERGE IN Q3 2009

2009-10-29T05:21:00.000-07:00

Nice update map on Foreclosure Hot Spots.

AS SOME TOP METRO FORECLOSURE ACTIVITY RATES DECREASE, NEW FORECLOSURE HOT SPOTS EMERGE IN Q3 2009

Home Prices Rose in Most Major Cities in August - WSJ.com

2009-10-27T16:24:00.000-07:00

Nice map graphic of 20 major cities

Home Prices Rose in Most Major Cities in August - WSJ.com

U.S. Home Prices Up for a 3rd Month - NYTimes.com

2009-10-27T06:31:00.000-07:00

Stability is first step to bottom.

U.S. Home Prices Up for a 3rd Month - NYTimes.com

Huntersville, North Carolina - Information Site, Homes for Sale, Information & Links

2009-10-27T05:52:00.000-07:00

Huntersville, North Carolina - Information Site, Homes for Sale, Information & Links

Huntersville, North Carolina Information Page full of links, information and all things Huntersville, North Carolina.
(REPOST THIS IS THE PAGE WE WERE REFERRING TO)

Huntersville North Carolina, the town directly north of Charlotte NC in Mecklenburg County is one of the premier southern fast growth towns. Huntersville has a population of approximately 35,000 and growing. It has some strong attributes besides its proximity to Charlotte. Among them low taxes, temperate climate, low housing costs (relatively), Lake Norman, good schools, great shopping and a favorable business climate for corporate relocation.

We have created a blog with a page of links for info and steadily updated news and happenings from the area wihich inclusdes the entire North Lake Region and Charlotte.

http://www.charlottelakenormanhomes.blogspot.com/

Also check out the article form Forbes naming Huntersville the 2^nd most favorable place to relocate to:

http://www.forbes.com/2009/07/07/relocate-relocation-cities-lifestyle-real-estate-affordable-moving_slide_3.html

Foreclosure.com Blog · Home foreclosure sales ’skyrocket’ for online auction site

2009-10-26T15:53:00.000-07:00

Foreclosure.com Blog · Home foreclosure sales ’skyrocket’ for online auction site

Report: Housing to Bottom Out in March - Developments - WSJ

2009-10-24T06:44:00.000-07:00

Report: Housing to Bottom Out in March - Developments - WSJ

Robbins Park, Cornelius, North Carolina - Great Retail & Office Directly Across

2009-10-18T05:21:00.001-07:00

Robbins Park, Cornelius, North Carolina - Great Retail & Office Directly Across

LoopNet - Harbour View, Office Building, 18047 West Catawba Ave, Cornelius, NC

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Premier to add 300 jobs, move headquarters to Ballantyne, Charlotte, North Carolina

2009-10-15T07:20:00.001-07:00

Premier to add 300 jobs, move headquarters to Ballantyne, Charlotte North Carolina

Good move Premier Inc.! Any relos please call us we will offer buyer credit and put money in your pocket, in writing.

Article from Charlotte Observer:

Premier to add 300 jobs, move headquarters to Ballantyne - CharlotteObserver.com

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Huntersville Presbyterian, Carolina's Medical Center, (Charlotte and Concord ) make list of Top 100 Hospitals

2009-10-15T04:58:00.001-07:00

Huntersville Presbyterian, Carolina's Medical Center, (Charlotte and Concord ) make list of Top 100 Hospitals in Value Index in Value Index. See Article in Reuters

Hospital Value Index: Top 100 Best in Value Hospitals Released | Reuters

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Foreclosures Grow in Housing Market's Top Tiers - WSJ.com

2009-10-12T14:07:00.001-07:00

The contagion moves higher up the spectrum.

Foreclosures Grow in Housing Market's Top Tiers - WSJ.com

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The Most Toxic Loans in Commercial Real Estate

2009-10-11T17:01:00.000-07:00

The Most Toxic Loans in Commercial Real Estate: "

Not all commercial real-estate loans are created equal.

In Wednesday’s Journal we reported that U.S. banks have been “slow” to take losses on battered commercial real-estate loans, according to a Federal Reserve presentation to banking regulators last month.

So which are the most toxic loans?

The answer will sound familiar to anyone who’s followed the subprime mortgage meltdown. The Fed presentation points to Interest-only loans, held by banks or repackaged into securities, as the most poisoned piece of the commercial real-estate pie.

Interest-only loans allow borrowers to pay only the interest on the loan for a set period of time but no principal. A lot of these loans were made at the market peak, get no benefit from amortization and have seen a decline of more than 45% in the values of the properties backing the loans, the Fed presentation notes.

As a result, borrowers with these loans likely will a hard time refinancing when they come due. From 2010 through 2013, about $175 billion of five-year interest-only loans bundled into CMBS will mature, but that figure would be much bigger when it comes to interest-only commercial loans held by banks. “CMBS dollar amount is low compared to bank ‘IO’ problem,” says the Fed report, referring to interest only.

Another interesting point made by the Fed presentation is that while commercial real estate is continuing to decline, the reason for the drop is shifting. Up until now, values have dropped about 30% from the peak primarily because of the evaporation of capital and a massive recalculation of risk within the industry, it says. Buyers are demanding much lower prices and higher yields to compensate for the risk they’re taking on.

But now, lower rents and higher vacancies also are dragging down values, the presentation notes, predicting another 10% to 15% decline in 2010.

North Carolina / Charlotte / Lake Norman Foreclosed Properties - Paid Closing with New Program from Fannie & Freddie

2009-10-10T14:58:00.000-07:00

North Carolina / Charlotte / Lake Norman Foreclosed Properties - Paid Closing with New Program from Fannie & Freddie

North Carolina / Charlotte / Lake Norman Foreclosed Properrties - Paid Closing with New Program from Fannie & Freddie Get additional incentives from Fannie & Freddie

Great Program from Freddie and Frannie see Article form the Ny Times with a link to Fannie's website to find homes in your area.

Lake & Town is a registered with HUD to find and represent you with a foreclosure please call or e mail for info!

Help From Fannie and Freddie for Foreclosed Homes

The New York Times

By BOB TEDESCHI

Published: October 9, 2009

HOME buyers are not accustomed to getting much help with their mortgage financing; generally, they’re happy just to get a loan closed.
At least one group of borrowers, though, could get a break. Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, the government-controlled companies that buy mortgages in bulk from lenders, are offering financing incentives for buyers of foreclosed homes that Fannie and Freddie own.
Home buyers have until Oct. 30 to apply to take advantage of Freddie Mac’s SmartBuy program, which began in July and offers up to 3.5 percent of a home’s sale price to help cover closing costs.
To qualify, the home must be a principal residence and must be chosen from Freddie Mac’s HomeSteps Web site for its foreclosed properties (homesteps.com/homeshoppers.htm). Loans must close by year’s end. The HomeSteps properties also include two-year warranties on major appliances and electrical, plumbing, air-conditioning and heating systems.
HomeSteps includes relatively few properties in New York City and the surrounding counties, however, in part because Freddie Mac accepts few loans greater than $417,000. Last week, for instance, the site had no homes in Manhattan and five in Westchester County, including a three-bedroom apartment in Yonkers and a four-bedroom home in South Salem, both listed for $300,000. (There were a few more homes in New Jersey and in Fairfield County, Connecticut.)
Nor does the Fannie Mae program, HomePath.com, have many foreclosed homes for sale in the greater New York region. A one-bedroom apartment on West 110th Street, selling for $378,000, was the site’s only Manhattan listing last week. (Thirteen homes were available in Nassau County, by contrast.)
The incentives for buyers in Fannie Mae’s ongoing program are even more aggressive than those offered by Freddie Mac.
Through participating lenders, Fannie will offer mortgages to buyers who make a down payment of 3 percent, and these buyers do not have to secure private mortgage insurance, or P.M.I., as they would when doing business with nearly any other lender.
A Fannie Mae spokeswoman, Amy Bonitatibus, said the company “already owns the risk” on the property. “So buyers can save a couple hundred dollars a month in insurance,” she said.
Fannie Mae will often offer closing cost assistance to buyers, so long as they negotiate for it. Unlike Freddie Mac’s, Fannie’s assistance level is not capped. Under the program, the average homeowner has received payments equivalent to 3.75 percent of the loan’s value.
Until June, Fannie Mae also offered to pay for home repairs during the borrower’s first six months in the property, up to $3,000. The company is considering whether to renew, or change, that program.
Also, in areas hit hardest by the economic downturn that have qualified for federal financing through the National Stabilization Program, which helps distressed communities, Fannie Mae may discount its foreclosed properties by up to 15 percent.
Most of Fannie Mae’s foreclosure incentives are offered to buyers who will use the property as their primary residence, or so-called public entities like Neighborhood Housing Services and other organizations that rehabilitate properties and sell them to owner-occupants.
Banks, meanwhile, have been leery of offering financing incentives on foreclosed homes. But Brad Geissen, the chief executive of Foreclosure.com, which, among other things, posts listings of foreclosed homes, said that in his discussions with banking executives, banks appear ready to offer similar programs.
“We’re starting to see banks loosen up on financing and consider a number of different incentive programs to move their inventory,” Mr. Geissen said. “I know a number of banks who are getting ready to release programs like this, between now and the end of the year.”

Mortgages - Help From Fannie and Freddie for Foreclosed Homes - NYTimes.com

2009-10-10T14:37:00.001-07:00

Mortgages - Help From Fannie and Freddie for Foreclosed Homes

Mortgages - Help From Fannie and Freddie for Foreclosed Homes - NYTimes.com

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Robbins Park Homes, Cornelius, NC

2009-10-08T12:54:00.000-07:00

Robbins Park Homes, Cornelius, North Carolina (edit/delete)

Robbins Park Homes, Cornelius, North Carolina will benefit from a great location.

The developing Robbins Park Subdivision, a Simonini project on West Catawba Ave Cornelius, has what I
believe something that will distinguish from most of its competition. The number one component to real estate valuation and desirability - location location location.
Its situated basically across the street form Lake Normans southeast shore along West Catawba, a road dotted with marinas, restaurants and retail. This comprises most of the picture as far as location is concerned.
But, added to that is the community itself featuring new homes in a park like setting. According to plans it will be almost entirely surrounded by a park and nature preserve along with a recreation area nearby featuring ball-fields and other amenities.
If you would like some information or any info regarding Charlotte and Lake Norman shoot us an email or call anytime.
Best Nick
Ps Try our new interactive map search powered by Goole Maps!

Area home prices rise a bit in July - CharlotteObserver.com

2009-09-30T08:27:00.001-07:00

Area home prices rise a bit in July - CharlotteObserver.com

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Is now the time to buy in Uptown? - CharlotteObserver.com

2009-09-28T17:20:00.001-07:00

Is now the time to buy in Uptown? - CharlotteObserver.com

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49ers' football campaign passes $3.2 million mark - CharlotteObserver.com

2009-09-16T06:11:00.001-07:00

49ers' football campaign passes $3.2 million mark - CharlotteObserver.com

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Charlotte, Lake Norman North Carolina Real Estate News

2009-09-16T05:32:00.000-07:00

Charlotte, Lake Norman North Carolina Real Estate News

Charlotte, Lake Norman North Carolina Real Estate News Columnist Doug Smith recently retired.
This is the last column of Doug Smith, many of us of us in Charlotte, in the real estate biz or not, have followed his "Next Big Thing" pieces for years.
Given his time of writing about Charlotte and documenting our growth so to speak, a few parting words from Doug are worth passing on.

Before I go, some last words of advice

With Charlotte's outerbelt still at least four years from completion, people already are talking about an outer-outerbelt.
They should squelch that idea right now.
Urban sprawl and traffic already are choking suburban areas in the path of Interstate 485.
As quickly as a new interchange opens, developers are all over it with plans for shopping centers, business parks and subdivisions.
Perhaps during this downturn, public policymakers will give serious thought to how the city can concentrate more density inside the urban core and integrate new development with mass transit.
It's happening to some extent along the Lynx light rail line in south Charlotte.
Managing growth is the dominant theme that comes to mind as I reflect on my nearly 20 years of covering real estate and development in Charlotte.
I have a few other pieces of advice as I officially enter retirement:
Build truly efficient urban villages. Mixing office, retail and residential on the same site was one of the hot trends before the economy hit the skids. What's not to like about a Birkdale Village or a Phillips Place?
The concept is good, but the execution since Birkdale and Phillips Place has sometimes fallen short. In their zeal to promote mixed use, public officials have allowed strange configurations of residences and businesses that do little to meet the goals of compactness, fewer car trips and less air pollution.
Resist over-speculation. Developers who thought the boom of the past five years would never end will pay the price, possibly losing office buildings, shopping centers and business parks to foreclosure.
Many gambled – as developers always do when they start a project – but failed to anticipate the upheaval brewing in the financial markets.
Local people in the industry will tell you the problem was exacerbated by out-of-towners trying to jump in and make a quick buck. But hometown development firms are feeling the pain, too, as homebuyers hold back and businesses curtail expansion plans.
Don't succumb to the herd mentality. When the first uptown high-rise condo project proved successful, everyone else it seems plunged into the market, saturating the center city with proposals.
Latecomers learned a hard lesson as legal battles, foreclosure and lender backlash stymied several projects and made buyers skittish.
Only one tall condo tower remains under construction and plans for 10 are out of the picture. Experts believe it could be three years before anyone resumes building residential high-rises. Note to developers: Know when to hold them, know when to fold them.
Build apartments in sync with demand. With unemployment up and uncertainty in the workplace, there won't be enough renters to fill the estimated 6,000 apartment units under construction in the Charlotte area.
The market will be cutthroat as developers offer renters lucrative incentives to fill new projects while older complexes struggle to survive.
This is one of the most puzzling things about Charlotte real estate. Apartment developers have never built to match consumer demand. The cycle is always boom and bust.
Will it be this way forever?
Allow me one last word. In this sluggish economy, elected officials will be eager to get residential and commercial projects started again. Be careful. People will be tempted to make expedient decisions they might regret later.
Now is the time to respond to citizen complaints about unbridled growth. Policymakers should give priority to development that fills gaps in existing neighborhoods and should discourage more land clearing in the distant suburbs. Stick to the plan, without exception.
My tenure reporting on the phenomenal growth of my hometown has been fascinating indeed.
When I began in 1990, construction was just beginning on the 60-story Bank of America Corporate Center.
The first leg of I-485 had been started in south Mecklenburg, but Ballantyne still hadn't been announced.
There were no mixed-use urban villages or uptown residential towers. No Northlake, Concord Mills or Carolina Place malls.
Charlotte's population was 395,934 compared with an estimated 716,874 today.
I can only wonder from the sidelines what the next 20 years will bring.

Thanks Doug enjoy your retirement!

What does Lake Norman Greenways Mean to your Home or your Future Home

2009-09-07T05:12:00.001-07:00

What does Lake Norman Greenways Mean to your Home or your Future Home

Established and Planned Greenways In the Cornelius, Huntersville area provide numerous economic benefits to Mecklenburg County, including higher real property values, increased tourism and recreation related revenues, and cost savings for public services.
Greenways have been shown to increase the value of adjacent properties by as much as 5 to 20 percent.
For example, within a new development in Apex, North Carolina, new lots situated on greenways were priced $5,000 higher than comparable lots off the greenway. In Charlotte, national builders typically charge premiums ranging from $1000 to $5000 for $120,000-$200,000 homes bordering open space and greenways.
Many home buyers and corporations are looking for real estate that provides direct access to public and private greenway systems. Greenways are viewed as amenities by residential, commercial and office park developers who, in turn, are realizing higher rental values and profits. American LIVES, a Real Estate Research Firm, completed a national study of the top reasons that people choose their new home. Walking and biking paths are viewed as extremely important to 74% of buyers nationally. The Crosland Land Company, Charlotte, NC, surveyed 800 new and older Charlotte area homebuyers in 1993 and found that walking/biking paths that meander was the second most important amenity to buyers across all price points and buyer types. Additionally, greenways in Mecklenburg County can also save local tax dollars by utilizing strategies for managing community storm water and placing into productive use landscapes that would not normally be developed for community uses. The 2015 Plan for Mecklenburg County states that Mecklenburg County has a strong record of economic vitality and new jobs. Greenways will enhance the quality of life in Mecklenburg County and ensure long term economic viability. Tourism is currently ranked as the number one economic force in the world. In several states, regional areas, and localities throughout the nation, greenways have been specifically created to capture the tourism potential of a regional landscape or cultural destination. The State of Missouri, for example, spent $6 million to create the 200-mile KATY Trail, which, in its first full year of operation, generated travel and tourism expenditures of more than $6 million. Orange County, Florida spent $2 million to create the 16-mile West Orange Greenway and expects to realize a complete return on its investment in the first year of operation through the economic revitalization of the small towns that lie along the trail's route.
Greenway Name Mileage StatusWhat does Lake Norman Greenways Mean to your Home or your Future Home

Upper Little Sugar Creek 1.1 Existing
Lower Little Sugar Creek 1.3 Existing
Mallard/Clark's Creek 3.7 Existing
McAlpine Creek 4.1 Existing
McMullen Creek 1.3 Existing
McAlpine Nature Trail 1.7 Existing
McAlpine Cross Country 3.1 Existing
SUBTOTAL EXISTING 16.3
Mallard/Clark's Creek III 3.0 Planned
Torrence Creek 2.3 Planned
Irwin Creek 3.75 Planned
Lower McAlpine Creek 3.2 Planned
Lower McMullen Creek 1.3 Planned
SUBTOTAL PLANNED 13.55
TOTAL MILEAGE 29.85

E mail me at Nick@LakeandTown.com

Augustalee, Cornelius North Carolina - Augustalee Update 9/3/2009

2009-09-05T07:06:00.000-07:00

Augustalee, Cornelius North Carolina - Augustalee Update 9/3/2009

I have been following the proposed Augustalee development in Cornelius North Carolina for over a year now. There have been some major changes in the past couple of weeks that can change the total outlook of this project.
Recently, the original owners have had some issues with it's lenders and now have lost the opportunity to continue with Augustalee. Here is an article written in the The Herald that explains the lastest news on the project.

The Michigan pension fund that took over the proposed Augustalee project Thursday predicts it can find the new capital and "additional development expertise" needed to "move the project forward."

In a statement released by their Charlotte attorney Friday, Aug. 28, BUILD Fund officials said they also look "forward to working with officials for Cornelius, other state and local officials and Fifth Third Bank."

Fifth Third Bank is the senior lender on the proposed $155 million, mixed-used development, and the BUILD Fund was the second lender until foreclosing on the original developers, Cornelius Bromont and Bromont Investments.

Katten Muchin Rosenman, the Charlotte law firm representing the BUILD Fund, held a foreclosure sale at 11 a.m. Thursday, Aug. 27, at the firms' offices on the 26th floor of 3 Wachovia Center. The BUILD Fund, which already has advanced the development $19 million, was the sole bidder for Augustalee, offering $2.5 million.

Walt Rector and his son, Josh, who own Cornelius Bromont, the original developers, attended the foreclosure proceeding with their attorney, but neither spoke a word.

Cornelius town officials have participated previously in meetings with the Rectors and officials with the BUILD Fund about "how this would proceed," Cornelius Mayor Jeff Tarte said Friday, Aug. 28. He said those meetings have been "very civil," and he knows that the Rectors and the BUILD Fund are working together on other projects in Dallas, Texas.

Tarte compared the Augustalee dispute to a "quarrel in a family," although he noted that "families sometimes divorce."

Bradley Pearce, the Charlotte attorney representing the BUILD Fund, told the Herald after Thursday's foreclosure sale that BUILD Fund officials have not asked the Rectors to leave the project. Pearce said negotiations between all the parties are continuing.

Earlier in the week, the Rectors sued the BUILD Fund, accusing the pension fund of breach of contract and unfair trade practices. The Rectors contend the BUILD Fund breached its loan agreement to provide an additional $4 million by May 13, triggering the events that led to the foreclosure. The Rectors have asked a judge to order the BUILD Fund to pay damages or the $4 million it promised.

Through a marketing firm, the Rectors have refused to comment. Amy Pritchard Williams, the Charlotte attorney representing the Rectors, said Friday, Aug. 28, that she could not comment on the foreclosure sale or the Rectors' suit against the BUILD Fund. Fifth Third Bank officials did not attend Thursday's sale and have refused comment previously.

In its prepared statement, BUILD Fund officials said they are "optimistic" about moving forward despite Bromont's "failure to satisfy certain milestones and inability to raise additional capital needed to complete the project, including the financing of certain infrastructure and required offsite improvements."

The BUILD Fund describes itself as "a commingled real estate fund that provides, among other things, equity and mezzanine debt financing for various real estate developments and projects around the country."

Once the BUILD Fund, the Rectors and Fifth Third Bank officials have reached some understanding, Tarte hopes the developers will come to a meeting of the town's Board of Commissioners "to share their view of the project."

"They might not want to change a thing," Tarte said. "They might want to scale back or they might want to do something completely different."

But the best outcome for Cornelius, he said, is getting Augustalee built as designed. "What other project could we bring to that 104 acres, or anywhere in North Carolina, that will immediately create 1,000 construction jobs ... and pay for $120 million in road improvements?" Tarte asked. "We need and want Augustalee," he said. "It would be unbelievably tragic and unfortunate," if the projects fails.

At the same time, the mayor said the BUILD Fund still faces an economy in crisis and a minimum delay of at least a year. "There's no magic," he said. "The biggest hurdle is finding the funding, which will pay for the debt service to begin building. No matter who they are, the owners aren't going to see any revenue until something comes out of the ground."

Lake Norman North Carolina - Swimming may finally come to Lake Norman Parks

2009-08-31T17:37:00.000-07:00

Lake Norman North Carolina - Swimming may finally come to Lake Norman Parks (edit/delete)

Lake Norman North Carolina has a number of beautiful state parks but with no swimming access at any of them except for Lake Norman State Park in Troutman, NC.
However, that may all change after a meeting by Mecklenburg officials this week. Here is a recent article by the Charlotte Observer that explains what will be talked about.
Mecklenburg leaders this week are expected to lift a 32-year-old swimming ban at the county's waterfront parks, possibly leading to the re-opening of public beaches on Lake Wylie and Lake Norman.
Mecklenburg Parks and Recreation staff spent several months examining the feasibility of public swimming. The review included the county-operated parks at Copper Head Island, McDowell Nature Preserve, Latta Plantation Nature Preserve, Blythe Landing, Ramsey Creek and Jetton Road.

"As the lakes have been built out, there are very few places that the average person can go to swim," said Jennifer Roberts, chairman of the Mecklenburg County Commission.
Roberts said she expected Commissioners to lift the swimming ban at their meeting Tuesday night.
Preparing the parks for public swimming still requires the approval of Duke Energy, which controls the lakes, as well as dredging and the installation of markers and buoys.
"There are some very unsafe places in our Catawba River and in our lakes, and what we want to do is give people a safe place," Roberts told NewsChannel 36, adding the county hopes to post lifeguards at the public swimming areas.

Exact locations for swimming have not yet been finalized, officials said, and the public beaches may not be ready until the summer of 2012.
If, or when this happens I will be sure to keep you informed. E mail subscribe to my blog to stay up to date with the latest

Charlotte Mortgage Rates Still Historically Low

2009-08-30T09:09:00.000-07:00

Piece from Charlotte Biz Journal

Long-term mortgage rates edged up this week but remain well below year-ago levels.
Freddie Mac says 30-year fixed-rate mortgages averaged 5.14 percent in the week ending Aug. 27, up from 5.12 percent last week. A year ago, 30-year mortgages averaged 6.4 percent.
One-year adjustable-rate mortgages averaged 4.69 percent this week, unchanged from last week.
"Long-term mortgage rates were barely changed this week, remaining historically low, which is helping to sustain a high level of affordability in the home-purchase market," says Freddie Mac (NYSE: FRE) chief economist Frank Nothaft. "Low rates contributed to existing-home sales rising for the fourth consecutive month to an annual pace of 5.24 million, in July, the most since August 2007, according to the National Association of Realtors."
The NAR reported July existing-home sales rose 7.2 percent. On Thursday, the U.S. Commerce Department reported a 9.6 percent increase in month-over-month sales of new homes.
The Mortgage Bankers Association says mortgage applications rose 7.5 percent last week as home buyers re-entered the market, although more than half of mortgage applications are homeowners refinancing existing mortgages.

North Carolina Best Place to Retire? - North Carolina Tax Friendly To Retirees, NC won "Favorite Destination " for taxes by Kiplinger.com

2009-08-28T05:24:00.001-07:00

North Carolina Best Place to Retire? - North Carolina Tax Friendly To Retirees, NC won "Favorite Destination " for taxes by Kiplinger.com

Is North Carolina, the best place to retire? If you care about taxes its certainly up there . If fact when it comes to taxes North Carolina is very friendly place to go. In a recent study Kiplinger.com, the respected DC based personal finance journal, deemed North Carolina "most favorable" when it comes to your retirement tax dollars.
Among the Reasons:
North Carolina does not tax Social Security Benefits.
Also excluded are up to to $4,000 in taxes of local and gov pensions and $2,000.00 for private pensions.
A cap on property taxes for those 65 and older to 4% of income.
Additional exemptions are on prescription drugs and medical equipment.
Compelling when you add a much lower cost of living through some of the best home prices in the country. throw in the weather and nice people and its its a great place to make home.
Check out the article below:

Kiplinger: N.C. ranks high for retirees

Charlotte Business Journal - by Lee Weisbecker Triangle Business Journal

North Carolina has won “favorite destination” status in a study of the most tax-friendly places for retirees on pensions and Social Security.
Kiplinger.com, online arm of the Washington, D.C.-based personal finance publication, looked at tax policies across the country to determine whether they were friendly to seniors.
The publication summarized the results in groups of states with the lowest and highest taxes on income, sales, real estate and other assets.
North Carolina was among 27 states that don’t include Social Security payments as taxable state income.
Other factors contributing to the “favorite destination” label included the state’s exclusion of up to $4,000 in taxing state and local government pensions and its exemption of up to $2,000 for private pensions.
Kiplinger.com also considered North Carolina’s sales tax burden, which is rising to 4.75 percent after Oct. 1, that exempts prescription drugs and medical equipment, and a program limiting property taxes for homeowners age 65 and older to a total of 4 percent of income.

3 comments • Nick Stallard-Lake Norman Charlotte, NC - Realtor • August 28 2009 07:11AM

Huntersville NC Townhomes Under $150k - Huntersville North Carolina Homes for Sale

2009-08-28T05:22:00.000-07:00

Huntersville NC Townhomes Under $150k - Huntersville North Carolina Homes for Sale

Huntersville NC Townhomes under $150k - Huntersville North Carolina Real Estate.
Huntersville, North Carolina has been voted by a number of real estate magazines as one of the top ten places to relocate. I would have to agree with that census.
My wife and I have lived in the Huntersville area for almost 10 years and have come to really love it here. From the climate to the location it has everything you could ask for.
For anyone looking to relocate from another state, but felt they would not be able to afford it. Take a look at some of the townhomes in the Huntersville Lake Norman area by following this link. Huntersville Townhomes for Sale

If you are new to the area here are a list of valuable links that you may want to visit:
Huntersville Schools:
Elementary
Barnette Elementary (just built 2008 and where my kids go)
Torrence Creek Elementary
Blythe Elementary
Huntersville Elementary

Middle                                        High School
Bradley Middle                   Hopewell High
J.M. Alexander Middle         North Mecklenburg
Huntersville Lake Norman area events Calendar
To view all of the homes/townhomes available in the Lake Norman/Charlotte region click on the buttons below.

The Park Condos, Charlotte NC, sells at auction, Charlotte, NC Condos, For Sale, Condo Listings

2009-08-26T04:18:00.001-07:00

The Park Condos, Charlotte NC, sells at auction, Charlotte, NC Condos, For Sale, Condo Listings

The Park finally sells at auction! Great news for the city scape, it was apparently 70%+/- sold before the banks pulled the plug on the project with the original developer for a loan default.
I have been up there (yes walked it, no elevators yet) for a couple potential buyers of distressed buildings. It could be be very nice if completed. Among the positives are the big balconies and roof top park and pool. The new owner has the plans, not sure at this time what changes might be in store if any. Any intested parties out there give us a call, maybe a good time to inquire (read:negotiate).

Heres the story form the Charlotte Biz Journal:
A Naples, Fla.-based developer has acquired The Park condo tower for an undisclosed amount in an all-cash deal.
Small Brothers LLC says one of its subsidiaries has bought the unfinished uptown tower from financial group BB Syndication.
“We are very excited to complete the project as quickly as possible,” says Mark Small, a partner at Small Brothers. “We feel the location of the project is a critical component to the continued success of the city because of its strategic location to the NASCAR Hall of Fame and will enhance the downtown redevelopment.”
Construction work has been frozen at the site on the corner of South Caldwell and Third streets since January 2008. The Park is still missing its exterior skin and has been exposed to weather and vandals.
Longtime local engineer Pete Verna lost the property after his development company 222 South Caldwell Street Limited Partnership defaulted on $28.5 million owed on a $30.69 million construction loan.
Verna’s construction lender BB Syndication, a subsidiary of Bankers’ Bank in Wisconsin, bought the building for $14.2 million after launching foreclosure proceedings last year. Poyner Spruill, the law firm representing the bank, had hosted a July 22 private auction for the project.
Small says the company has Verna’s drawings and currently plans to complete the tower as a for-sale condominium.
Small Brothers says it will use the Charlotte branch of Cleveland Construction Inc. in Ohio – a sister company – to complete the 21-story, 106-unit tower. It pegs the project at 70 percent complete.
“For us, we look at it as any other type of construction project,” Small says. “We have the tools in the toolbox.”
Cleveland Construction was founded in 1980 by the late Richard G. Small and his sons Mark, Tim, Jon, and James.
Small Brothers is owned by the four brothers and shareholder Bud Balsum. The company owns more than 1 million square feet of residential and commercial property, Small says.

Huntersville Business Relocation - Rated Number 2 NATIONWIDE in Forbes Reloville Piece

2009-08-26T04:17:00.001-07:00

Huntersville Business Relocation - Rated Number 2 NATIONWIDE in Forbes Reloville Piece

Huntersville Business Relocation - Rated Number 2 NATIONWIDE in Forbes Reloville Piece
Huntersville NC voted number 2 overall as a place to relocate your biz. Nice to see. As a local could not agree more - big growth expected, low taxes, good weather, very affordable NEW housing.
Check out Forbes piece:
America's 25 Best Places To Move
Peter T. Kilborn, 07.07.09, 08:00 PM EDT

Professionals looking to get ahead are relocating to these burgeoning areas.

In the early 1980s, Mark Remson, then a recent graduate of Humboldt State College, couldn't find work in his major of forestry management. Newly married, Remson and his wife Sandi turned to Silicon Valley, then brimming with jobs. He landed one with Advanced Micro Devices ( AMD - news - people ), a semiconductor company that was developing a production technology called computer-aided manufacturing, or CAM. He learned semiconductor assembly and fabrication and to write and manage the software.
"And that," Remson says, "is what I've been doing since."
For nearly 30 years, Remson has been running CAM systems for semiconductor plants across the globe. From Sunnyvale, he and Sandi moved to St. Louis, where daughter Laura was born; to San Antonio, where they had Brian; to Phoenix, where Kerry was born; to Austin, Texas; to Aizu-Wakamatsu, Japan. Then it was back to Austin before taking off for Singapore, New Delhi, Frisco, Texas, and, in August 2007, to Geneva, Switzerland, where Mark is a senior director at STMicroelectronics ( STM - news - people ), one of the world's biggest semiconductor companies. In June, the company bailed out of its 1,000-employee plant in Carrollton, Texas, where Mark had his office, and asked him to start packing for another stint in Singapore.
The children call themselves "third-culture kids," meaning they're from everywhere and nowhere. And they,
like their parents, are not alone.

Click for Commerciail Info and Lisitngs:

In Depth: America's 25 Best Places To Move

Now in their early 50s, the Remsons are corporate serial movers--"Relos," they call themselves. Relos are relocated every few years for jobs with IBM ( IBM - news - people ), General Electric ( GE - news - people ), ITT ( ITT - news - people ) and Hewlett-Packard ( HPQ - news - people ), Advanced Micro Devices ( AMD - news - people ), Intel ( INTC - news - people ), Microsoft ( MSFT - news - people ), Cisco ( CSCO - news - people ), Procter & Gamble ( PG - news - people ), Coca-Cola ( KO - news - people ), American Express ( AXP - news - people ), UPS ( UPS - news - people ), Marriott International ( MAR - news - people ) and Hilton Hotels ( HLT - news - people ), Johnson & Johnson ( JNJ - news - people ), Pfizer ( PFE - news - people ), Siemens ( SI - news - people ), Royal Dutch Shell ( RDSA - news - people ), Sony ( SNE - news - people ) and Toyota ( TM - news - people ).
At most of those companies, periodic relocation has become a well-worn track to the executive suite. Twelve of Coca-Cola's top 19 officers and 27 of Caterpillar's ( CAT - news - people ) 31 have been moved three or more times. W. Frederick Henderson, CEO of General Motors ( GMGMQ.PK - news - people ), has moved nine. His predecessor, Rick Wagoner moved eight. To get ahead at GE, UPS, ExxonMobil ( XOM - news - people ) and P&G, executive relocation is all but mandatory.
Between moves, Relos roost in "Relovilles" that cater largely to them--young, mid- and upscale suburbs near their companies' plants and office parks outside Dallas, Houston, Atlanta, Denver, Raleigh, Charlotte, Chicago, Washington, Indianapolis or Minneapolis. Today, Alpharetta, Ga., Huntersville, N.C., Apex, N.C., Parker, Col., and Castle Rock, Col. are among the country's top "relovilles."

Click For Residential Listing and Info:

The Point, Mooresville, NC Homes For Sale - Brawley Widening Continues.

2009-08-26T04:16:00.000-07:00

The Point, Mooresville, NC Homes For Sale - Brawley Widening Continues.

The Point, Mooesville, NC Homes For Sale - Brawley Widening Continues.

Road work continues on the much anticipated widening of Brawley School Road.

The awaited project is slated to complete in Summer 2011 and appears to be on schedule. Great news for the residents of the communities and businesses along the heavily traveled route.

Some believe that during the recent RE market downturn the added negative of the extended travel time along the road has led some to further softening of the home market along Brawley including the Point.
I share this view and believe that as the road widening nears completion the area
will see a surge in new interest. There are some incredible deals to be had. We recently represented a buyer who saw a purchase price reduced over 20% from ask.
We believe The Point is the most desirable community on the Lake and feel that at the right price now a buyer will be well situated for over the long Term.

Recent update from NCDOT:
Brawley School Road

Roadworkwill also close lanes of Brawley School Road in Mooresville at various times this week:

• Between Isle of Pines Road and Poplar Grove Road from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. to 7 a.m. until Wednesday. (roadwork)
• Near Stutts Road from 7 p.m. to 7 a.m. until Friday (storm pipe replacement)
• Near Williamson Road (widening project)
According to the NCDOT, the Brawley School Road widening contractor will not be allowed to delay traffic by use of lane closures during the following time periods:
• Monday - Friday 6-9 a.m. and 3-9 p.m. from South Fork Road to Blume Road
• Monday - Saturday from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. from Blume Road to Williamson Road
• Monday - Saturday from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Williamson Road

Macaulay Homes For Sale Huntersville NC Real Estate - MacAulay Homes for Sale

2009-08-26T04:14:00.001-07:00

Macaulay Homes For Sale Huntersville NC Real Estate - MacAulay Homes for Sale

Macaulay Huntersville NC Real Estate - MacAulay Homes for Sale
Macaulay in desireable Huntersville, NC is the sweet spot!
I own 2 local Real Estate Agencies , Lake & Town Realty and Carolina Commercial Advisors, and happen to live in the Macaulay neighborhood.
I moved to the Charlotte area 5 years ago and choose make this area and this neighborhood my home.
Macaulay is well situated with easy access to Charlotte, Lake Norman and the nearby amenities of Birkdale Village.
The north lake area in general has a slightly resorty feel and after getting to know the entire region through my real estate endeavors I find this area of Huntersville to be among the regions best.
Please check out all the currently listed homes in Macaulay by clicking below and if you are thinking about this community please feel free to call or email anytime.
This is an excellent time to buy! Allow us to assist you in making a negotiating a great deal.

CLICK BELOW

Birdale, Huntersville NC Homes For Sale - Local Realtor Offers Buyer Credit!!

2009-08-25T16:42:00.000-07:00

Birkdale Golf Community Info, Huntersvile, NC, Birkdale NC Homes for Sale, Lake & Town Realty Buyer Credit!

Birkdale Golf Community Info, Huntersvile, NC, Birkdale NC Homes for Sale, Lake & Town Realty Buyer Credit!

Birkdale. The premier golf community in Huntersville. Location Unmatched, Awesome Pool Club, Walk or Ride to the Village, all on a Arnold Palmer golf course less than a mile from I-77 and 15 min from Charlotte.

If your looking or thinking about Birkdale, consider this.

Lake & Town Realty is offering a buyer credit of up to 1% of the value of the purchased home.

Yes 1%!

For example, you hire us as your Buyers Agent (zero fees), we search and assist you in finding your home or choice of homes, then negotiate a price and fully represent you, and at close we pay you a credit of 1% of the purchase price {$4,000 on a $400,000 home}. Costs you nothing, not sure call of email Nick 704 577 3306 or nick@lakeandtown.com

THAT'S IT! WE PUT IT IN WRITING.

Check out whats currently Available Here or have us contact you.

Festival in the Park 2009 - Charlotte North Carolina

The Freedom Festival at Freedom Park, Charlotte North Carolina will begin Thursday September 24th.
Since 1964, Festival in the Park has been bringing good music, good art and good times to Charlotteans and visitors from around the world. The sounds of "big band music" drift across Freedom Park's lake whose still surface reflects the lights strung from Camelot exhibit tents.
The scents of a variety of food fill the air, as small children with painted faces happily produce their first art work. Others find the many talented artists who can create an original work of art to grace their home or to give as the perfect gift.
First time visitors are taken by the simple, relaxed atmosphere. Old timers marvel at the freshness of each year's offerings, as memories from long ago festivals are revisited. Unlike most festivals our lighting system allows us to continue into the night.
This fun filled event is designed to promote and stimulate interest in the arts. It provides the opportunity for all to see, hear, and learn from over 150 artists and crafts people who actively demonstrate and display their art. Nearly a thousand entertainers provide free ongoing performances at the main band shell and many stages surrounding it.
Festival in the Park has been chosen as one of Sunshine Artists Magazine's 200 BEST festivals. Over 125,000 visitors are estimated to have attended the 2008 Festival in the Park.
The Festival is made possible by many groups and individuals. A sampling of the organizations who actively participate in bringing art and entertainment to the Festival are Charlotte Mecklenburg Schools, the Afro American Cultural Center, the Carolina Clowns, the United Magicians' Association, and the Charlotte Folk Society. We welcome them and the many others who help make the Festival possible.
We encourage all groups and individuals to participate and get involved Festival in the Park!!
"My wife and I have attended for 10 years now and think it is one of Charlotte's Best events held!"
Mike Carpino
Mike@LakeAndTown

0 comments • Mike Carpino Realtor from Lake Norman to Uptown Charlotte, NC • August 25 2009 01:01PM

Huntersville North Carolina Public Golf Courses- Birkdale, Skybrook, Highland Creek, The Tradition Reviews

Huntersville North Carolina Public Golf Courses,Birkdale, Highland Creek, The Tradition, and Skybrook are some of the nicest public golf courses you will play. For the money you will not find a better value in the Huntersville, Lake Norman area.
If you are not familiar with the Huntersville NC area sometimes it is hard deciding what course is worth playing. There is nothing worse than getting to a club and realizing it is not worth the price you pay.
In this article I will give you 4 public golf course within the Huntersville area that you can choose from and not be disappointed with any of them. They are part of what is called The Carolina Trail.
First, is Birkdale Golf Course located just off I-77 exit 25. From the nicely manicured greens to the great practice facility you will enjoy this golf course tremendously.
Since, it is located so close to my home I probably have played this course more than any other. Also, if you have small children it has great pratice facilities to get the little ones some swings.
Secondly, there is Highland Creek. Highland Creekis located at 7101 Highland Creek Parkway. The one nice feature they have is the GPS system on every cart.
It has a number of challenging holes which I have found myself taking a snowman on.
Another beautiful course is Skybrooklocated off of Eastfield Road in Huntersville. Skybrook Golf Club, the centerpiece of the award winning Skybrook community, is an 18-hole championship course with a challenging, yet friendly layout that welcomes players of all abilities. John LaFoy, designer and golf course architect, blended the rolling hills, dramatic elevation changes and beautiful landscape into a course that captures the heart of every golfer that plays.
Skybrook, which beckons you with beautiful rolling fairways and incredibly scenic views, roams across 7,000 yards of remarkably mountainous terrain. Each golf hole has five tee boxes allowing players of all ability the chance to enjoy our course.
Lastly, there is The Tradition. This scenic golf course was cut out of dense hardwoods and is located on the beautiful, rolling terrain of North Mecklenburg County . Strategic shot-making is the key to scoring at The Tradition, with its winding, tree-lined fairways.
The Tradition Golf Club opened for play in 1996. John Cassell, II has orchestrated a masterpiece of understated elegance with The Tradition. His layout manifests a harmonic blend of natural beauty and championship golf. The result is a majestic, tree-lined layout that delights the senses and thoroughly challenges all facets of the player's game.
The property includes a 5,400 square foot clubhouse, dining facilities, a fully stocked golf shop, driving range and practice facilities.
The great thing about all of them are they are very reasonably priced. Right now you can play for around $35 anytime.
If you are moving to or visiting the Lake Norman, Huntersville area you will be very satisfied to know that you have a number of public golf course to choose from. If you have any other questions please feel free to call or email me. Mike@LakeAndTown.com 704 301-9264.

0 comments • Mike Carpino Realtor from Lake Norman to Uptown Charlotte, NC • August 23 2009 01:28PM

Homes for Sale in Skybrook Subdivision, Huntersville NC

SkyBrook Subdivision in Huntersville, NC has so much to offer for Familes. Just take a look and find your New Dream Home here with all this to offer! Golf, Swim, Tennis, Soccer & More Community
Nestled amidst beautiful hilly terrain, Skybrook offers some of the most incredible
views in the Charlotte area. At Skybrook you'll find an array of lifestyle opportunities including a challenging 18-hole championship golf course, an amazing Swim & Racquet Club and homes built by the area's top builders. Discover Skybrook and see why it has become Huntersville's neighborhood of choice. You'll find what you've been looking for
and so much more.

Swim Programs Include:
Competition Pools
Splasher and Activity Pools
Toddler Pools
Water Slides
Swim Teams and Lessons for
Children and Teens
Summer Pool Events and Club Socials
Snack bar
Fitness Center

Cardio and weight rooms
State of the art equipment
Multi-purpose activity room with classes
Certified Director of Fitness
on staff for personal training
and fitness classes
Year Round Tennis Program
6 lighted tennis courts including
4 clay and 2 hard court surfaces
Private and group lessons from our
USPTA professional
Leagues and events for players of
all ages and abilities
Proshop stocked with equipment and apparel
Summer camp programs for children and teens
Clubhouse
Social/TV activity room
Bathhouse with showers and changing areas

Skybrook Golf Club, the centerpiece of the award winning Skybrook community, is an 18-hole championship course with a challenging, yet friendly layout that welcomes players of all abilities. John LaFoy, designer and golf course architect, blended the rolling hills, dramatic elevation changes and beautiful landscape into a course that captures the heart of every golfer that plays. Skybrook, which beckons you with beautiful rolling fairways and incredibly scenic views, roams across 7,000 yards of remarkably mountainous terrain. Each golf hole has five tee boxes allowing players of all ability the chance to enjoy our course. Complimentary green fees, preferred starting times and social events for members!

Call or Email me today to Find your Family Dream Home

Brock Zevan
704-728-1008
Brock@lakeandtown.com

2 comments • Brock Zevan Lake Norman Huntersville NC Area Realtor • August 23 2009 08:25AM

Festival in the Park 2009 - Charlotte North Carolina

0 comments • Mike Carpino Realtor from Lake Norman to Uptown Charlotte, NC • August 25 2009 01:01PM