Archive for the ‘Dilworth’ Category

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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 »

Outdoor Entertaining At Your Charlotte Home

Thursday, July 30th, 2009

With Charlotte’s moderate climate, you can entertain outdoors during three seasons. Outdoor entertaining is a gracious way to create unforgettable experiences for your guests. Make your Charlotte home an outdoor oasis with a variety of comfortable outdoor living areas.

Basic outdoor entertaining begins with a wraparound porch. Imagine living in a Charlotte home. where you walk out for breakfast on your pretty front porch. In the evening, sit on a swing while you sip lemonade and get a breath of fresh air. Guests gather to chat and relax on your glorious wraparound porch.

Outdoor entertaining is delightful on an outdoor rear deck. Sliding glass or French doors leading to a spacious deck is the perfect party zone. Display attractive flowering planters along your deck and stairs. Have plenty of comfortable lawn furniture inviting guests to relax and stay while. Umbrellas, tables and end tables make it easy to entertain at your Charlotte home.

A swimming pool makes a major splash when you entertain at your Charlotte home.. Have an area with lounge chairs, end tables and serve icy umbrella drinks. A hot tub is bubbly fun for everyone. Surround the area with a patio or deck for gracious outdoor entertaining poolside.

When you shop around for your ideal Charlotte home, check out the possible outdoor entertainment areas. Look for porches, decks, patios and pools to create your own outdoor oasis right at home. Attractive landscaping adds to your outdoor pleasure.

If your housing budget is around $1,000,000, consider a gracious 4 bedroom, 3 bath Dilworth home with dramatic downtown skyline views, private backyard, covered porch, screened porch and patio for plenty of outdoor enjoyment possibilities.

For a little over $500,000, move right into a 4 bedroom, 3 bath Wilmore home with an open floor plan, 9′ ceilings and a custom brick paved patio with outdoor fireplace, built-in grill and hot tub for endless hours of outdoor fun. Another option for around $500,000 is a charming 3 bedroom, 1.5 bath Myers Park home with a breathtaking Koi pond, waterfall and outdoor living space certified as a National Wildlife Habitat.

To find out more about irresistible Charlotte homes with alluring outdoor living spaces, contact Katie Gray at 704-560-9699 or email katie@katiegrayhomes.com.

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

Are You The Uptown 4th Ward Type?

Sunday, May 31st, 2009

Charlotte’s City Center is a bustling area with sporting venues, offices, shopping, restaurants and cultural events. Beautiful Uptown 4th Ward homes are nestled in a predominantly residential area of Charlotte with fantastic access to all the urban amenities you crave.

Attractive Uptown 4th Ward homes offer a perfect combination of privacy and accessibility. Live in a luxury high-rise or mid rise condo or townhouse or one of the many lovely Victorian homes. Be wherever you want to be in the city in mere moment. Let’s consider whether you are the Uptown 4th Ward home type:

-Do you like easy access to urban amenities without losing the privacy of a residential neighborhood?

-Have you always wanted to live in a posh condo or gracious Victorian home with outdoor living spaces?

-Is it important to you to reside in a pleasant neighborhood with nearby access to offices and businesses?

-Do you spend your weekends enjoying sporting events, cultural experiences, fine dining and marathon shopping?

If you said yes to any of the above questions, you are a viable candidate for an Uptown 4th Ward home of your own. Shop around for your home today to take advantage of affordable housing prices and lowered mortgage interest rates.

For those with a housing budget of around one million dollars, gracious living awaits you in an Uptown 4th Ward high rise home with 3 bedroom, 2.5 bathrooms, floor to ceiling glass, Thermador appliances, Kohler fixtures, marble and an array of amenities. If you are looking to spend closer to $750,000, you’ll love an Uptown 4th Ward mid rise home with 2 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, top of the line finishes and penthouse views.

Those with a budget of around $500,000 will appreciate an Uptown 4th Ward townhome featuring 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, gas log fireplace, covered porch and skyline views. For around $300,000, move into an Uptown 4th Ward condo with 2 bedrooms, 2 baths, hardwood floors, stainless steel appliances and much more.

To find out more about all different types of Uptown 4th Ward homes, contact Katie Gray at 704-560-9699 or email katie@katiegrayhomes.com.

Posted in Dilworth, Uptown 4th Ward | No Comments »

Are You The Dilworth Home Type?

Friday, May 15th, 2009

Buying a Charlotte home makes you a permanent part of this beautiful city. Dilworth is the first suburb created in Charlotte in the days when everyone traveled by trolley. Today Dilworth is a diverse, historic community that combines the charm of the past with modern city conveniences.

Now that you want to own a little piece of Charlotte, are you the Dilworth home type? Here are a few questions to consider before shopping for a Dilworth home:

-Are you fascinated by the rich history of an early streetcar suburb, opened by a streetcar owner in 1891 and connected to the main city by streetcar lines?

-Do you appreciate a colorful neighborhood with a unique mix of mansions and bungalows, where you see all different types of Dilworth homes as you walk down the street?

-Do you like living in a residential area with easy access to restaurants, entertainment, galleries and commerce?

-Would you like to live in an eclectic Charlotte area known as the “Old South”, lined with historic architecture and tree-lined streets?

If you answered yes to any of the above questions, a Dilworth home might be perfect for you. A variety of Dilworth homes are available in every size and price range. With lowered mortgage rates, it is a good time to find a great deal on a Dilworth home.

For around 2 million dollars, you can move into a gracious 6 bedroom, 5.5 bath Dilworth mansion with a slate roof, guest house, 2-car garage, extensive front and rear porch and much more. If your budget is closer to 1 million dollars, you will appreciate a 5 bedroom, 3 bath with 2 half bath traditional Dilworth home with a marble fireplace, great room, ceramic tile and more.

If your budget is closer to $500,000, check out a 4 bedroom, 3.5 bath Dilworth home with a 2-sided fireplace, antique double front doors and fenced backyard. For about $300,000, move right into a 2 bedroom, 1 bath Dilworth bungalow with hardwood floors and a wood burning fireplace.

For more information about lovely Dilworth homes, contact Katie Gray at 704-560-9699 or email katie@katiegrayhomes.com.

 

Posted in Dilworth | No Comments »

Charlotte Colonial Homes – History With A Modern Touch

Thursday, April 16th, 2009

Charlotte colonial homes offer the perfect fusion of antiquity with modern amenities. Bring history together with a modern touch when you settle into your own gracious Charlotte colonial home. Since the late 1600s, Americans chose the spacious comfort of colonial homes with fireplaces, yards, porches and storage sheds.

Originally wealthy Americans built colonial homes throughout New England and the Southern colonies. The first colonial houses were a single story with a hall, parlor and chimney. By the 1700s, colonial homes had two stories with a central hall and a staircase. A two-story Charlotte colonial home today typically has a square shape, central door and a stairway leading to a hallway and upstairs bedrooms. With front porches, fenced yards and green gardens, a Charlotte colonial home is great for entertaining outdoors as well as indoors.

If your budget for a Charlotte colonial home is around $2,000,000 to $1,000,000, your choices are quite attractive. Consider a fabulous 5 bedroom, 5 bath Myers Park colonial home with all the bells and whistles for under $2,000,000. For closer to $1,000,000, move right into a gorgeous 4 bedroom, 3 bath Dilworth colonial home with a 2-car garage and screened porch.

For those with a budget around $500,000, there are many attractive colonial homes with charming features in excellent Charlotte locations. Check out a NoDa colonial style home with 4 bedrooms, 3 baths and a designer kitchen with recessed lighting. Another great option is a custom built Plaza Midwood colonial style home with 3 large bedrooms, 4 baths, ceramic tile and wall-to-wall carpets.

A variety of lovely Charlotte colonial homes are available if your budget is between $150,000 to $300,000. Imagine yourself living in a brand new Belmont colonial home with 4 bedrooms, 3 ½ baths, ceramic tile and wall-to-wall carpet for around $300,000. Move into a welcoming new 2-story Villa Heights home with 3 bedrooms, 2 ½ baths and a front porch conveniently location just five minutes from Uptown Charlotte.

For more information about beautiful Charlotte colonial homes, contact Katie Gray at 704-560-9699 or email katie@katiegrayhomes.com.

Posted in Belmont, Dilworth, Myers Park, NoDa, Plaza Midwood, Uptown 1st Ward, Uptown 3rd Ward, Villa Heights | No Comments »

Charlotte Mansion Homes For A Million Dollar Lifestyle

Friday, March 20th, 2009

Charlotte mansion homes are large dwellings with multiple amenities. The word mansion is derived from words such as manor, formerly know as the territorial holdings granted to a lord. Today Charlotte mansion homes incorporate many design features on a spacious floor plan with private yards.

While a “real” mansion is typically considered to be at least 6,000 square feet, there are also welcoming “McMansions” to suit all needs and budgets. In the 1980s, these smaller mansions were built to offer 3,000 to 5,000 square feet of living space. Both Charlotte mansion homes feature a variety of comforts at prices ranging from one million dollars to several million dollars. Be the lord or lady of your own manor in a breathtaking Charlotte mansion home.

Luxury living awaits you in Myers Park mansion homes located on lovely tree-lined streets. Imagine yourself in a gorgeous Georgian house with 6 bedrooms, 5 baths and 2 half baths. Appreciate a brick house with limestone detailing, grand entrance hall with winding suspended stairway, top appliances, den with a fireplaces, elevators for 4 floors and finished carriage house for just over $4,000,000. For closer to $2,000,000, you’ll love a 6 bedroom, 4 ½ bath Myers Park home with high ceilings, dramatic breakfast room overlooking pool, loggia with fireplace and lower level with wine cellar.

Experience gracious living in a totally renovated magnificent Craftsman style Dilworth mansion home. For around $2,000,000, you enjoy 5 bedrooms, 4 ½ baths, a fabulous guest house, wood floor, expansive front and rear porches and a level fenced year. Consider a smaller Dilworth mansion house for around $1,000,000. Appreciate plenty of space and privacy in a 4 bedroom, 3 ½ bath Dilworth home with two cozy fireplaces, hardwood floors, plantation shutters, web bar with refrigerator and landscape lighting.

For just under one million dollars, a fabulous 4 bedroom, 3 ½ bath Plaza Midwood home can be yours. The house is completely renovated with a barrel-vaulted entry, rocking chair front porch, beautiful finishes, large master suite with window seat and professional landscaping.

For more information about Charlotte mansion homes, contact Katie Gray at 704-560-9699 or katie@katiegrayhomes.com.

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

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