Archive for the ‘Dilworth’ Category

Happenings in Dilworth

Monday, October 17th, 2011

One of the most historically-rich, inner-city neighborhoods in Charlotte is without a doubt Dilworth. The 1970s were a time of struggle for this community, but they were also a time of growth, as well as the beginning of some long-standing traditions. The Dilworth Jubilee and Home Tour were born.

The Dilworth Community Development Association says this about the traditions: “In 1973, the Dilworth Jubilee began as a celebration of the diverse place known as Dilworth. The Dilworth Home Tour was an outgrowth of the Jubilee, and, as a 1973 editorial column in The Charlotte News said, “ ‘It was not just an effort to show off, but to share; the home tour, for example, was intended to not only display the products of renovation, but to pass on the secrets and to perhaps infect visitors with the enthusiasm to try it. The City was invited to see not a wax works or museum, but a work very much in progress. The celebration was not just of the place that is Dilworth, but of the human energy that is trying to make of it a Community.’ ”

Today, the Dilworth Home Tour serves to exhibit some of the area’s most historic, diverse and impressive homes. This year, 2011, the 3rd Dilworth Quarterly recapped the featured bungalows, brick ranches and remodeled, traditional homes throughout the area – the construction of most dating back to the early 1900s. If you like what you see and want to learn more about Dilworth real estate, contact experienced Realtor Katie Gray at 704.560.9699.

But it’s not just the homes or the community events that make Dilworth such a great place to live. It’s the people. “There is a good chance that if a pet has been either lost or found nearby, or a new person is moving onto your street, or there is a block party being organized for Halloween, or there is a crime alert…..your block captain might be your best source for information,” notes the DCDA. This is part of the Dilworth Neighborhood Network. Neighbors helping neighbors stay informed. There is also a Men’s Club, a Ladies of Dilworth organization, clubs for children and charity programs in place throughout the community.

Plus, the people of Dilworth are always looking for new and engaging ways to improve their neighborhood. The Dilworth Art Sculpture Project, for example, will be the area’s first public piece of art, slated for installation in 2012. It will incorporate materials salvaged from the community’s old streetcar line – Dilworth is commonly referred to as Charlotte’s first streetcar community – and it will be created by a local, Carolinas-based artist.

The perfect neighborhood doesn’t exist, but Dilworth comes pretty close. It’s progressive but intent on preserving and celebrating its history. It’s smallish, but it’s nearness to the City of Charlotte makes its location ideal. And its residents are involved, communal and dedicated to maintaining Dilworth as a wonderful place to live.

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Charlotte’s Festival in the Park

Monday, August 15th, 2011

Freedom Park is located between the popular Charlotte neighborhoods of Myers Park and Dilworth. Since 1964, this wonderful spot has been host to the Festival in the Park, an award–winning, annual gathering that brings renowned artists and live music to the residents of Charlotte.

It’s set to take place from September 23rd – with events kicking off at 4:00 pm – through September 25th – events wrapping up around 6:00 pm. The Southeast Tourism Society has named the upcoming festival as one of their top 20 events for September, and in years past, Sunshine Artists Magazine placed it among its top 200 festivals.

So what is all the hype about? The festival draws over 100,000 attendees each year, and over 21 states are represented by the many acclaimed artists showing their work. There are seven different stages – including a clown stage, magician stage and youth talent stage – as well as a family fun zone.  Something very special about Festival in the Park is the fact that it is organized and implemented almost solely through the efforts of volunteers. And with 150 plus artists and over 1,000 performers of all sorts, keeping this festival on its feet – maintaining its laid back atmosphere and history, while keeping things fresh – requires a lot of effort, energy and commitment.

According to the festival’s website: “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, Children’s Theatre of Charlotte, Carolina Raptor Center, the Carolina Clowns, the Magicians’ Stage, the Charlotte Folk Society, the Actors Crib and the Jazz Arts Initiative. We welcome them and the many others who help make the Festival possible.”

With all of the artists, performers and festival attendees, you’ll likely be faced with a parking problem. The Festival at the Park website recommends a few different options to help you out.

  • The LYNX Light Rail costs only $2.00 dollars and will run every half hour on its normal route during festival days.
  • After 5:00 pm on Friday, September 23rd, and all day Saturday and Sunday, people can park at Holy Trinity Catholic Middle School and Myers Park Traditional School. A free shuttle will be available to bus you to the festival, and the $10.00 dollar parking fee goes toward the respective schools.
  • The Carolinas Medical Center parking deck may offer additional spots, and some street parking options are available – if you’re lucky.

You are asked to be considerate of residents and not to park on their property. Law enforcement will be ticketing and towing illegally parked vehicles.

Other than parking, there are some basic park rules that should be observed during the festival. Pets, skateboards and roller – blading are prohibited. If you ride a bike to the festival, you’re asked to walk it once you arrive.

The most important rule, have a great time! For more information about what’s going on in your neighborhood this festival season, reach out to a local Charlotte Realtor who has a strong grasp on community events. Call Katie Gray at 704.560.9699.

Posted in Dilworth, General, Myers Park | No Comments »

Charlotte Residents Plan to Dine like Royalty

Thursday, January 20th, 2011

From Jan. 21 through Jan. 30, Charlotte will be host to a 10-day celebration of food. The Queen’s Feast – better known as Charlotte’s restaurant week – will see the participation of over 50 restaurants throughout the city.

Each involved Charlotte restaurant will offer patrons a 3-course, prix fixe menu for only $30 per person.  From the website, you simply select a restaurant. The following page will provide you with reservation instructions – reservations are highly recommended because of the event’s popularity; links to the restaurant’s website; a link to OpenTable.com, if the restaurant is using the site to reserve tables; a detailed menu with all three courses outlined; as well as a description of the establishment and its address.

Further details about Charlotte restaurant week:

  • AAA members can receive additional benefits at participating restaurants. Some of the eateries will allow AAA members to purchase $50 dollar gift certificates for ½ price. When you select your restaurant of choice, be sure the AAA logo is present on the webpage. Members are required to present their cards while dining during Queen’s Feast, and you cannot redeem discounted gift certificates during restaurant week.
  • Rose Chauffeured Transportation is the event-sponsored car service available during restaurant week. If door-to-door service is appealing – and for many diners, it is – you can reserve transportation by contacting Rose at 704-522-8258,
    800-377-6912 or at the website.
  • There are no special passes, coupons or vouchers for the event. After following the restaurant’s reservation instructions and reserving your seats, you simply arrive at your designated time, and tell the host or hostess that you’re participating in restaurant week.
  • Finding parking can sometimes be tricky. The organizers of Queen’s Feast recommend perusing the Central Parking System site. They own and operate around 14, professionally managed parking locations around Charlotte.

Charlotte restaurant week offers residents and visitors alike an outstanding, as well as affordable, opportunity to sample some of city’s finest culinary offerings. If you want to learn more about the diverse communities involved with Queen’s Feast – such as Dilworth, Uptown Charlotte and Plaza Midwood – contact Realtor Katie Gray at 704.560.9699.

Posted in Dilworth, Plaza Midwood, uptown charlotte | No Comments »

Experience Historic Dilworth

Monday, January 3rd, 2011

If you’re looking for a home in an historic neighborhood with lots of charm, look no further than Dilworth.

In 1891, Charlotte got its first street-car, and Dilworth became the first street-car neighborhood. Unfortunately, by the 1960’s Dilworth had become blighted, like so many inner city neighborhoods. However, it has undergone a renaissance, according to Dilworth Online, the Official Website of the Dilworth Community Development Association; “In the late 60′s, the original Dilworth Community Development Association was formed to rally against further deterioration and encourage a focus on our inner city neighborhood at a time when city planners were focused on the suburbs.”

There are lots of reasons to consider buying a home in Dilworth.

It’s an eclectic mix of residences. You can find renovated homes built in the 1920’s and 30’s, high-rise condominiums, and newer homes built within the last ten years. There are also million-dollar showplaces.

There are tax advantages to buying and renovating a home in Dilworth, due to its status as a Historic District.  There is a 30% state tax credit for rehabilitating historic structures that are also personal homes.

Every September for more than thirty-five years, the Dilworth Home Tour has offered glimpses into the beautifully restored historic homes in the neighborhood, and the renovated homes.

Dilworth is not just about houses, though, it’s about people.

Every October, the Dilworth Jubilee is held on a Saturday. It’s a “foundation for community building,” according to Dilworth Online, with music, food, games for the kids, and a convivial, small-town atmosphere.

That’s not all that’s going on in Dilworth. Dilworth boasts activities for folks of all ages and interests. Kids can enjoy tennis, yoga, and soccer. Newcomers can get to know everyone at a wine and cheese party, and there are many programs at the Sykes Rec Center involving art, music, scouting, and more. Dilworth’s Garden Club recently elected a new president, and became more active in the community [Dilworth Online].

Dilworth also features trendy restaurants like Greek Isles Restaurant, Lebowski’s Grill and Pub, and Fran’s Filling Station.

If you are interested in purchasing a home in Dilworth, consult Katie Gray at 704.560.9699.

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Hurry Down to the Dilworth Jubilee

Thursday, October 14th, 2010

Seeped in history as Charlotte’s first street car neighborhood, the trendily growing Dilworth district is also a place where community ties are strong. You’ll see some of these connections as family and friends gather at Latta Park this weekend, October 16th. From 9:00 – 5:00, the 38th annual Dilworth Jubilee will play out with loads of activities for Charlotte’s fun – seeking residents.

Sponsored by the Carolinas Medical Center and the Dilworth Neighborhood Grille, this Charlotte fall festival is one not to miss.

The Official Website of the Dilworth Community Development Association says:

“Bring the kids to enjoy Pumpkin Carving, Bouncy Houses, Magicians, Obstacle Courses, Face Painting, and Musical Sing-Alongs, all while seeing your neighbors dance along to the musical variations of DJ Rob. Don’t forget to stop by the booths of our local retailers, merchants, politicians and neighborhood participants. We hope that everyone will take some time to come out and enjoy another Dilworth Jubilee! “

What can attendees take in at this famous Charlotte festival? The 1st annual Taste of Dilworth will be featured from 11:00 – 2:00. Local eateries including the East Boulevard Bar and Grill, Brixx Pizza, Lebowski’s, La Paz and others will offer up tastes to festival goers. The Jubilee Bake-off is sure to be a hit, and there is a kids and adult competition.

“It doesn’t matter if you win or lose, it’s how you bake the cake,” says the DCDA’s Website. In Dilworth, the cake is baked with community connections and close ties to the neighborhood. In the 1960s, Dilworth was endangered by dilapidation, “blight and decay,” says the DCDA. Today, the Jubilee continues – started in 1973. Presently, historic Dilworth is a charming and thriving mixture of “streetcar suburb homes,” historic houses and modernly redefined living spaces.

To learn more about the exciting real estate prospects in Dilworth, contact Katie Gray at 704.560.9699. If you live in or around the area, be sure to head to Latta Park for one of the best Charlotte fall festivals – the 38th annual Dilworth Jubilee.

Posted in Charlotte Real Estate, Dilworth | No Comments »

Rezoning Rigmarole in Dilworth

Thursday, July 1st, 2010

Bordered by South End and Dilworth communities is a 17–acre tract of land that has received plenty of attention over the last few years. The Strawn Apartment tower and 121 cottages sit on the property and provide affordable housing for seniors and other Charlotte residents.

Because of its size and location, members of the Charlotte Housing Authority (CHA), the Dilworth Community Development Association (DCDA) and other developers believe the property has greater potential. In fact, in 2008, CHA employed the prestigious Urban Land Institute (ULI) to develop a panel for deciding how to best use the Strawn site.

The resulting plan called for “rehabilitating the tower and using the rest of the tract for a mixed-use, mixed-income development with residential units and street-level retail and commercial space,” according to the Charlotte Business Journal.

The ULI panel considers the Strawn site an area long overlooked in what is otherwise a thriving, revitalized area of Charlotte.

Thus, CHA decided to request rezoning of the area in order to sell off portions to developers and bring the Strawn site into better light. City Council recently voted unanimously to oppose the rezoning and current project plans.

What are some of the concerns? According to Dilworth residents represented on the DCDA Web site, there are many. That CHA’s current plans ignore the recommendations of the ULI and increase by too much the number of units planned for the site. That the current plans don’t take into consideration affordable housing for Charlotte residents. That surrounding communities and historic districts aren’t protected by current standards.

Another vote on the rezoning requests and development plans is scheduled for September 2010, but if you’re a resident of Dilworth or surrounding neighborhoods, let your voice be heard. The DCDA and CHA welcome your opinions through their online forum, online petition, standard mail and email.

For now, the Strawn site remains and residents wait to see what the final outcome will be for this prized Charlotte property.

Posted in Charlotte Real Estate, Dilworth | No Comments »

Population is Growing and Prices are Leveling Out

Wednesday, February 3rd, 2010

Despite national mobilization being down—no doubt due to the lethargic economy of the past few years—there is something about North Carolina that keeps people knocking at its doors. With a 2% population increase last year, it became the nation’s 4th fastest growing state, and it is still standing strong as the 10th largest state in the country. This is great news for Charlotte, the hub on North Carolina’s business and housing sectors.

With an influx of people, Charlotte is seeing more trade and commercial development. The housing market is also set to benefit from the state’s continuing growth.

In November of last year, home prices had fallen 5.5% from November of 2008. The most recent publication from Standard & Poor’s/Case-Shiller Home Price Index cites that Charlotte home prices slumped a meager 0.3% from October to November in 2009. This is an insignificant decline compared to the three months previous and a far cry from the 5.5% drop of the year prior.

Charlotte real estate markets are still sitting on the sides of buyers, however. Home sales are increasing and home prices are gradually catching up, but with first-time homebuyer’s tax credits, mortgage assistance, lending reform, low refinancing rates and other movements geared toward bolstering the housing market, buyers can still find excellent opportunities for purchasing residential real estate at record-setting affordable prices throughout Charlotte.

Currently, the median home price in Charlotte is approximately $155,250 and every day, you can expect to see a selection of around 133 homes listed throughout some of Charlotte’s best neighborhoods. From the old-soul Dilworth suburbs to the chic condos of Plaza Midwood and historic ranch homes of Wesley Heights, there is a niche for everyone in Charlotte. If you are looking to get moving with the rest of the population that finds this booming North Carolina city so appealing, the home prices and real estate market are ripe and waiting.

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Posted in Charlotte Real Estate, Dilworth, Plaza Midwood | No Comments »

Dilworth; Notorious Streetcar Suburb Presents History on Call

Wednesday, November 25th, 2009

The Dilworth neighborhood is one area in North Carolina that has an extensive historic background of streetcar transportation with pleasant stories to tell. It is an extremely popular place to buy a unique Charlotte home and make residence because of its history, among many other things. Beautiful tree lined streets, charming bungalows and paved sidewalks make this neighborhood highly sought after because of the family friendly atmosphere.

Dilworth is notorious for being Charlotte’s first streetcar suburb that was established around the 1890’s by a man named Edward Dilworth Latta. The neighborhood is one of Charlotte’s earliest suburbs that utilized the streetcar system for transporting their residents. One company is now helping to communicate stories of the Dilworth history; Charlotte Trolley, Inc. has launched an informative program called ‘History on Call’.

This new effort is a cell phone tour that costs nothing to hear stories of the important people and places that make up Charlotte’s history. The audio dramas are accessible through the internet or by telephone and consist of six topics in the series. Each one tells a specific tale of moments in history that showcase the historic events of Dilworth. It begins with the introduction of the suburb with the electric trolley and tells of the struggles that were endured during the time of the company strikes up until the marvelous homes that were built by an architect named Charles Christian Hook. Many of the stately and historic homes that were created by Hook are still standing and are listed as landmarks.

Dilworth has homes for sale that have been built when the neighborhood first was created. Your new Charlotte home could be located inside one of the most famous neighborhoods in North Carolina. Call Katie Gray at 704-560-9699 or email katie@katiegrayhomes.com to find out more about the historical events and homes of Dilworth, the first streetcar suburb of Charlotte.

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Posted in Charlotte Real Estate, Dilworth | No Comments »

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 »

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 »