Archive for August, 2009

Charlottte Home Sales Increase Before First Time Home Buyer Tax Credit Expires

Monday, August 31st, 2009

More Charlotte homes sold last month than any other month in the past decade. With the first-time home buyer tax advantage credit expiring on November 30, national home sales sharply increased during the month of July. First time home buyers are currently purchasing one of every three homes for sale. As a result, home sales jumped a significant 7.2 percent.

Many did not expect the US housing market to rebound so quickly. Sales hit an adjusted annual rate of 5.24 million in July. In June, the pace of home sales was 4.89 million. For the past four months, home sales gradually increased. July is the strongest home sales month since August, 2007. The incentive for first time home buyers offers a credit of up to 10 percent of the purchase price of the Charlotte home, up to $8,000. The credit phases out for couples earning over $150,000 and singles earning more than $75,000.

According to Federal Reserve Chairman, Ben Bernanke, “the prospects for a return to growth in the near term appear good.” As more people shop around for Charlotte homes, you might be losing the home of your dreams. During a sluggish market, you can take your time looking for the right house. As the housing market picks up, time is of the essence when it comes to find the perfect Charlotte home for your needs. Interest rates on mortgage loans are still low so it’s a the perfect time to peruse for your Charlotte home.

If your budget is around $500,000, consider a delightful 5 bedroom, 2.5 bath Dilworth home with hardwood floors on the first floor, 10 foot ceilings, gourmet kitchen with granite, Kitchen Aid appliances, great room with gas fireplace, owners retreat with spa like bath, loft area and walk-out balcony. For those with a budget closer to $300,000, check out a wonderful 3 bedroom, 2 bath Wilmore home with hardwood floors, tiled baths, new kitchen with granite, stainless appliances and gourmet island, great room, renovated master bath with dual sinks, covered rear terrace and fenced backyard.

To find out more about beautifully convenient Charlotte homes, contact Katie Gray at 704-560-9699 or email katie@katiegrayhomes.com.

Posted in Charlotte Real Estate, Dilworth, Wilmore | No Comments »

The Park and Uptown Charlotte Condos

Friday, August 28th, 2009

Charlotte condos and real estate continue to boom. In a struggling real estate market, Charlotte homes and commercial properties held their own. Recently the new owner of The Park completed several projects and wants to finish The Park’s 106 condominiums and parking garage in the near future.

The tower was recently purchased by developer Small Brothers Charlotte. Principal Bud Balsom commented, “We think it’s a great market. We know the city’s had struggles with the financial side but it’s still a terrific market and will continue to grow.”

This is good news for Charlotte residents and those looking to purchase Charlotte homes or condos. The convenient location, tree-lined streets and upbeat urban vibe make Charlotte a choice place to live and work. Many condos throughout the city sell for $300,000 or less, making Charlotte homes more affordable and accessible than ever before. With lower interest rates on mortgage loans, it’s an ideal time to shop around for an uptown Charlotte condo of your own.

If your budget is around $600,000, consider a 2 bedroom, 2 bath Uptown 1st Ward condo with incredible views, an inviting open floor plan, granite, stainless steel appliances, extra den/office space in a gated community with elevators and security. If you’re looking to spend closer to $500,000, view a 2 bedroom, 2 bath Uptown 3rd Ward condo in the heart of uptown Charlotte with hardwood floors, an open floor plan, large terrace, granite, stainless appliances, ceramic tile bathrooms, walk-in closets, storage unit outside your door, 2 parking spaces, fitness center, club room and concierge.

For those with a budget closer to $300,000, check out a 1 bedroom, 1 bath Uptown 4th Ward condo with a true bedroom with a door for privacy, plenty of light, panoramic views and 24 hour concierge. For under $225,000, move right into a 1 bedroom, 2 bath Uptown 4th Ward condo with unbelievable views of the skyline, stainless appliances, high ceilings, windows, security, concierge, sky club with pool, outdoor fireplace, gas grill, cyber cafe, fitness center, movie room and a secured parking space.

To find out more about affordable Charlotte condos, contact Katie Gray at 704-560-9699 or email katie@katiegrayhomes.com.

Posted in Uptown 1st Ward, Uptown 3rd Ward, Uptown 4th Ward | No Comments »

An Art Community With Charming Charlotte Homes

Wednesday, August 26th, 2009

Whether you’re an artist or appreciator of art, living in an artistic community is enlightening. The joy of being surrounded by other art fans and creators creates an environment where you can truly thrive. Consider charming Charlotte homes in the notoriously arty community NoDa.

NoDa is known as the historic district of Charlotte where afficionados gather to appreciate artistic entertainment and fine dining. Eclectic NoDa homes offer a street scene like SoHo attracting more artists to the community every year.

Located just two miles from Uptown, NoDa offers art galleries, venues for performing arts, funky boutiques, fabulous coffee houses and irresistible cuisine. Grab a crispy pizza, chow down on spicy Cajun or feast on Southwestern delights. Fantastic NoDa homes including hip condos, beautiful bungalows and luxury townhouses with arty appeal.

Living in an artistic community puts you in the center of the artistic excitement. In a NoDa home you’re just a few steps away from your favorite hot spots. Artists appreciate the creative vibe to inspire their own work.

Settle into an artistic, historic town with all the good stuff right at your fingertips. Artists on every budget can afford an inviting NoDa home. With competitive housing prices and lower interest rates on mortgages, it’s a good time to consider buying a NoDa home of your own.

If you want to spend around $550,000, consider a gracious 4 bedroom, 2.5 bath NoDa home with a front porch, deck, patio, open kitchen/family, chef’s gas stove, formal dining room and a zoned office professional space perfect for working at home.

For those looking to spend closer to $300,000, check out a renovated 4 bedroom, 2 bath NoDa bungalow with a large wrap around front porch, balcony/patio on the 2nd floor overlooking a park, open floor plan, kitchen with center island and stainless appliances, hardwood floors, custom lighting, new plumbing and electric and a master bedroom with private bath and walk-in closet.

If your budget is around $200,000, view a unique 3 bedroom, 1 bath NoDa home with an open floor plan, granite counter tops in the kitchen, bamboo cabinets, stainless steel appliances, deck and huge backyard for entertaining.

To find out more about artistically alluring NoDa homes, contact Katie Gray at 704-560-9699 or email katie@katiegrayhomes.com.

Posted in NoDa | No Comments »

Charlotte Real Estate Recovery

Friday, August 21st, 2009

In a market with lowered prices, homeowners and potential Charlotte home buyers wonder when the prices will go up. Nobody can be sure but the Bergstrom Center for Real Estate Studies at the University of Florida recently conducted a survey about real estate market potential.

Respondents expect housing pricing will stabilize then rise. Current conditions, such as lowered interest rates on mortgage loans, are increasing demand. The real estate market climb is expected to be steep and long as people wait for the job market to improve. Smaller Charlotte homes are being bought and built to minimize utility bills.

A small Charlotte home offers privacy without costly utility bills. Timothy Becker, center director fot the Bergstrom Center, stated, “I think the energy crisis has got them thinking, ‘Do I really need something so big?’”

Shop around for a small Charlotte home and take advantage of the lower interest rates on mortgage loans. When the real estate market recovers, home prices will begin to rise again. Buying now gives you an opportunity to get a good price on a great Charlotte home.

If your budget for a quaint abode is around $500,000, check out an Historic 2 bedroom, 2 bath Dilworth home with a classic southern front porch, hardwoods and porcelain, 10′ ceilings, renovated kitchen, stainless appliances, updated plumbing and electrical, air conditioning, 2 fireplaces and a fenced garden backyard with a deck.

For those looking to spend closer to $250,000, consider a 3 bedroom, 1.5 bath Madison Park home with hardwood floors, kitchen with new ceramic tile, stainless appliances, 2 car garage with workshop area, hot tube with cover as part of deck, updated windows and new water heater on a fenced lot.

Home buyers with a budget around $150,000 will appreciate a 3 bedroom, 1 bath NoDa bungalow with creative style including newly refinished cabinets, breakfast bar with pendant light, huge laundry off the kitchen, original preserved hardwood floor and a big fenced backyard.

To find out more about an efficient, small Charlotte home of your own, contact Katie Gray at 704-560-9699 or email katie@katiegrayhomes.com.

Posted in Charlotte Real Estate | No Comments »

Outdoor Improvements Add Value To Charlotte Homes

Monday, August 17th, 2009

When you looking at Charlotte homes, curb appeal is the first consideration. Does the Charlotte home look inviting from the street? Thoughtful outdoor improvements add greater financial and personal value to Charlotte homes.

Consider what type of Charlotte home you want. Are you looking to live in a high-rise or mid-rise home? Look for well-maintained walkways, adequate parking, functional elevators and attractive common areas. Consider whether the building offers additional amenities such as a fitness center, cyber cafe and an outdoor courtyard. Terraces provide an inviting outdoor living space.

Check out a 3 bedroom, 2.5 bath Uptown 4th Ward high rise home with a private terrace, private parking with biometric fingerprint access, 24 hour doorman, business center, pet park, concierge, health club, pool, elevator and tennis courts at just over $1,000,000. You’ll fall in love with a gorgeous 2 bedroom, 2 bath Uptown 3rd Ward mid-rise home with a cedar balcony, 2 parking spaces in secured deck, a pool, elevator and security for around $400,000.

When you shop around for a private Charlotte home, you’ll feel curb appeal instantly. Consider outdoor improvements that make a Charlotte home more desirable:

  • rocking chair front porch for a swing, chairs and end tables;

  • sliding glass doors to an outdoor deck with a table and chairs for entertaining;

  • above-ground or in-ground swimming pool to cool off on warm days;

  • outdoor living room with furniture or a hot tub;

  • green house for growing flowers, herbs and vegetables;

  • beautiful gardens, mature trees and eye-catching landscaping;

  • a garage for parking and storage;

  • outbuildings or sheds for additional storage space.

  • a driveway or ample street parking.

View a 4 bedroom, 3 bath Myers Park home with a secluded patio, deck and bright sunroom for plenty of good outdoor living for under $800,000. Move right into a 4 bedroom, 2.5 bath Belmont home with a rocking chair front porch, back porch and 2-car garage for under $300,000.

To find out more about charming Charlotte homes with curb appeal, contact Katie Gray at 704-560-9699 or email katie@katiegrayhomes.com.

Posted in Belmont, Myers Park, Uptown 3rd Ward, Uptown 4th Ward | No Comments »

Charlotte Real Estate Recovery

Thursday, August 13th, 2009

In a market with lowered prices, homeowners and potential Charlotte home buyers wonder when the prices will go up. Nobody can be sure but the Bergstrom Center for Real Estate Studies at the University of Florida recently conducted a survey about real estate market potential.

Respondents expect housing pricing will stabilize then rise. Current conditions, such as lowered interest rates on mortgage loans, are increasing demand. The real estate market climb is expected to be steep and long as people wait for the job market to improve. Smaller Charlotte homes are being bought and built to minimize utility bills.

A small Charlotte home offers privacy without costly utility bills. Timothy Becker, center director for the Bergstrom Center, stated, “I think the energy crisis has got them thinking, ‘Do I really need something so big?’”

Shop around for a small Charlotte home and take advantage of the lower interest rates on mortgage loans. When the real estate market recovers, home prices will begin to rise again. Buying now gives you an opportunity to get a good price on a great Charlotte home.

If your budget for a quaint abode is around $500,000, check out an Historic 2 bedroom, 2 bath Dilworth home with a classic southern front porch, hardwoods and porcelain, 10′ ceilings, renovated kitchen, stainless appliances, updated plumbing and electrical, air conditioning, 2 fireplaces and a fenced garden backyard with a deck.

For those looking to spend closer to $250,000, consider a 3 bedroom, 1.5 bath Madison Park home with hardwood floors, kitchen with new ceramic tile, stainless appliances, 2 car garage with workshop area, hot tube with cover as part of deck, updated windows and new water heater on a fenced lot.

Home buyers with a budget around $150,000 will appreciate a 3 bedroom, 1 bath NoDa bungalow with creative style including newly refinished cabinets, breakfast bar with pendant light, huge laundry off the kitchen, original preserved hardwood floor and a big fenced backyard.

To find out more about an efficient, small Charlotte home of your own, contact Katie Gray at 704-560-9699 or email katie@katiegrayhomes.com.

Posted in Dilworth, Madison Park, NoDa | No Comments »

Are Charlotte High Rise Homes For Families?

Wednesday, August 12th, 2009

In the past, Charlotte high rise homes typically appealed to single professionals and city-oriented couples. Today families appreciate the spacious luxury and convenience of Charlotte condo, especially for working parents.

Being closer to work means family members are also closer to home in case of an emergency. Living in Charlotte high rise homes offers an array of benefits for busy parents. Lawn maintenance is taken care of so nobody has to mow the lawn on weekends. This gives families more recreational time to do what they want.

Most Charlotte high rise homes offer around-the-clock security. This type of safety makes families feel reassured to live in a hectic city environment. If one parent is away on business, the other one feels secure because the high rise building has security features and/or a a doorman.

In a Charlotte high rise home, it is more difficult for children to run out into the street and get hurt. However, parents do have to teach their children about elevator safety in case children decide to explore the world beyond the condo on their own. Children should be told they can only enter the elevator with a parent to avoid dangerous situations.

What do the professionals think of raising children in a high rise home? Clinical psychologist Dr. Helen Evans stated, “”Ideally, a high-rise can be a great place to raise children if the parents make their [condo unit] optimal for their child’s development. Your high-rise should have adequate space for the children, and/or parents should create a fun, creative, environment by providing games that can be played in a small space. Remember, the most important thing is not where you live, it’s the type of home life that is created for your child.”

With lowered housing prices and competitive interest rates on mortgage loans, it is an ideal time to shop around for a Charlotte high rise home. For a little over $650,000, check out a 2 bedroom, 2 bath Uptown 4th Ward high rise home with massive bedrooms, 2-story windows, 2 parking spaces, Whirlpool tub and steam shower. If your budget is around $500,000, you’ll love an Uptown 3rd Ward home with 2 bedrooms, 2 baths, a scenic terrace, pool, fitness area, cyber cafe and club room.

To find out more about spacious Charlotte high rise homes for your family, contact Katie Gray at 704-560-9699 or email katie@katiegrayhomes.com.

Posted in Charlotte Real Estate | No Comments »