Cary NC Pat Hensley Remax United Raleigh and Cary NC Real Estate and Relocation

Painted Kitchen Cabinets are a new hot trend...

2012-01-22T19:01:00.000-05:00

Are you tired of your old kitchen cabinets but the thought of a complete
tear-out or remodel is just too overwhelming?
Well, you might enjoy giving them a colorful coat of paint.
You can do it yourself to save money, but for me, I will have to hire it done.
Deep blue sounds like a nice idea.

Here are some photos of painted cabinets to give you some inspiration courtesy of HGTV:

It's the New Black

Play up the contrast of white walls by painting kitchen cabinets black. By taking off the doors and adding inexpensive moldings, RMSer laylapalmer creates a sophisticated and versatile kitchen.

Add Comfort With Warm Beige

Warm beige adds a relaxed feel to this gourmet kitchen. Paired with gray countertops and walls, the soothing cabinet color keeps the space charming instead of drab.

Go Bold With the Island

One of the hottest trends in kitchen cabinets is an island featuring a dramatic hue. Surrounding white cabinets set the scene, but an onyx island brings high style to this traditional kitchen. Design by RMSer myuncommonsliceofsuburbia.

Sophisticated Gray

Gray is a refined, classic shade, but it also evokes a more modern feel than its black counterpart. Designer David Stimmel chose a hand-applied painted sheen for these birch cabinets, which allows a hint of the natural wood grain to peek through the soft gray tone.

Kid-Friendly Cabinets

Keep an eye on the kids while cooking dinner by integrating their playroom into the kitchen. Designer David Bromstad paints the lower cabinets with chalkboard paint for playtime, while the upper cabinets get a bold red treatment.

Mix It Up

Can't decide on one color for your cabinets? Paint the top and bottom cabinets different colors. Since blue and yellow are complementary hues, they're the perfect combination for this Old World kitchen. Design by Linda Adams.

Enjoy these ideas and let me know what you
decide to do. I think I will seriously consider dark
blue with a full black island.
I'll let you know how it turns out. Pat

Buying or selling a home this year?
Let me help you with some friendly advice.

919-469-6530
www.TriangleNC.com

Buying a home in Cary or Raleigh this year?

2012-01-03T09:53:00.003-05:00

Buying a home can be very exciting. There are a lot of things to consider.
Here are a few tips to keep in mind as you move forward in your home search.

Call Pat for friendly,
no pressure consultation.
919-469-6530

-Target Your Search, Look at Properties and Choose a Home

Millions of homes are sold each year. There's no shortage of housing options, but with so many choices the challenge becomes finding the property which best meets your needs.

The housing market is complicated because the stock of homes for sale is always in flux. Even if you could have a complete list of every home for sale at a given moment in a given community, such a list would become quickly obsolete as new homes become available and listed properties are sold.

In effect, buyers are looking at a dynamic market. So it is important to know as much as possible about the choices in preferred markets, and the way to do that is by working closely with a local REALTOR^® who is familiar with local markets and current real estate trends. Also, REALTORS^® have access to all homes on the market, including those that have not yet been advertised.

-Determine What You Want in a Home

A home is more than just a collection of bedrooms and bathrooms. Several properties - each with four bedrooms, three baths, and the same price - may well have radically different designs, commuting distances, lot sizes, tax costs, interior dimensions, exterior finishes, neighborhoods, etc.

First, list the features and benefits you want in a home. Consider such things as pricing, location, size, amenities (extras such as a pool or extra-large kitchen) and design (one floor or two, colonial or modern, etc.).

Next, determine your priorities. If you can't get a home at your price with all the features you want, then what features are most important? For instance, would you trade fewer bedrooms for a larger kitchen? A longer commute for a bigger lot and lower cost?
Last, consider your future needs. If you'll need a larger home later on, maybe now is the time to buy a bigger house rather than moving or expanding in the future.
-Target Your SearchBasic targeting measures, such as general location and affordability, can help you refine your search and focus on homes that offer the most desirable features.
-Target your desired neighborhood.

All neighborhoods and communities have a unique character and value. One community may be well known for historic homes while another offers both suburban living with easy access to downtown office areas. Determine which neighborhood(s) will work for you so you do not waste time looking where you would not want to live.

-Look for Homes
I will find you home listings based on your criteria. You can also look for homes online and by driving through neighborhoods that you’ve targeted.
Look at as many homes as possible both locally and online so you can make a sound decision when you choose a home. You may want to keep a file with information on each of the homes you like. I can help you determine the pros and cons of the properties you are interested in.
If you are buying a condo, it is important that you and your agent review the strata minutes to determine whether there are any critical structural or mechanical defects. Also, take a close look at the current financial statements to make sure the finances are sound.

-Choose a Home. A house is shelter. But a home is far more: it's where you live, relax, entertain friends, raise families, and work. A home is where you spend much of your life, so take your time to choose a house you can become your home. Don’t make hasty decisions, especially about financing. Be sure you can really afford the home you choose.

I'm here to give you friendly experienced advice every step of the way.

Pat Hensley Remax United 919-469-6530

For a quick response to questions or to get started on your home search today fill out our simple form and we will be in touch. No pressure.
Just good advice.

Easy Christmas Door Decorations

2011-12-04T13:02:00.002-05:00

I love creating new looks each year for my front door. I don't have a lot of time to spend on decoraing. So when HGTV sent me this great link to some easy to do front door decorations, I was so excited and I want to share them with you.
Send me your ideas and I will post them for others to enjoy too.
Have a happy and safe Holiday Season.
Pat Hensley Remax United. 919-469-6530

Decked-Out Holiday Front Doors

These inviting entries and front porches are gorgeously decked out for the holidays. Check out a few of our favorite dressed-up and lit-up entries.

By Kayla Kitts

Eye-Catching Entry

A bold red door is given a touch of holiday flair with framing garland and a matching wreath. RMS user HomeRestyle added green and red ornament balls, clear lights and red berries to create a lively and colorful display.

Vintage Decor

Rate My Space user clonning created an inviting holiday entrance by using vintage finds and plenty of greenery. She strung lights through the garland and miniature Christmas trees. A vintage sled and chalkboard stand add a creative touch to the festive porch.

Simple Style

A dressed-up mock Tudor door provides a warm holiday welcoming. A lush, fresh-fruit wreath is all that's needed to decorate this gorgeous entryway for the Christmas season. Design by RMS user katypuddle.

Holiday Cheer

RMS user discountdesign combined garland with sheer wire ribbon, branches and ornament balls to create a glamorous holiday entry. Decorative packages and a matching ribbon wreath deliver true holiday spirit.

Dressed-Up Doorway

An already stunning red door is dressed up for the holidays with garland and a dazzling gold wreath. RMS user Daniel added holly, various ornaments and gold ribbon as the finishing touch to the front door surround.

Small and Simple

The beautiful simplicity of this front door and porch calls for something equally as calm for the holiday season. A natural green wreath with scattered pinecones is the perfect holiday decor for this home.

White Christmas

Designer Katrina Giles welcomed a truly white Christmas. Miniature planted Christmas trees were wrapped with lights and paired with a long garland wreath. Hints of red ribbon and berries on the wreath poke out from the snow and provide a pop of color.

Those were great right?
Have fun decorating and I will see you in the new year. Pat

Thinking of buying or selling a home in the near future?
Give me a call. I'll be happy to share some great tips to get you started and help you throughout the way.
Pat 919-469-6530 www.TriangleNC.com

Should you sell your home during the Holidays? Tips for selling a home during the winter Holidays...

2011-11-04T11:52:00.003-05:00

So, you missed the summertime sales window and still want to sell your home before the first of the year.
Homes do sell during the Holiday season. I have found over the years that people don't move during the winter Holidays unless they need to move. This means buyers looking at your home this time of year are generally very serious.
Here are a few tips to keep in mind as you stage your home for potential buyers as well as your family's enjoyment.

1. It's okay to decorate for the season. Just don't use a heavy hand. Go lightly on the decorations so you don't overpower the rooms making it difficult for a buyer to visualize your home as they might enjoy it. Here is an of example of a tasteful mantle decoration.

2. The same goes for outdoors. Don't be the home with the most lights. this will turn away most buyers.

3. This is a great time for baking Holiday goodies. Nothing smells better than fresh baked cookies or bread.

4. Don't leave a presents under the tree. This is a good advice even if your home is not for sale. Thieves are in high action this time of year. You don't want to invite trouble. Keeps gifts and other valuables stored out of sight.

5. Always remember, just because your home is for sale, you do don't have to let just anyone into your home that rings the doorbell. It's best to make sure potential buyers have been pre-screened by your local real estate agent. You can't be too safety conscious any time of the year.

Enjoy your winter Holidays and may you have a successful sale too! Pat

Planning on selling or buying a home soon?
Give me a call for friendly, experienced advice.
Pat Hensley 919-280-4567
www.TriangleNC.com

Easy Kitchen updates to fit any budget...

2011-10-13T08:03:00.002-05:00

I love great ideas with photos. Kitchens are the most used room in the house and the best place in your home to update.
Even if you are not thinking of selling in the near future, you will get so much enjoyment by making a few smart changes.
HGTV just emailed me these great tips that can be done for less than a $1000 along with colorful photos to show us how.
I hope you enjoy this as much as I do. Pat

Renovate Your Kitchen for Under $1,000

Get the look for less as our design pros show you how to redo your kitchen for $1,000.

By Douglas Trattner

Get the Look for Less

Want to redo your kitchen without breaking the bank? \"It is possible to give your kitchen a whole new look for much less money,\" says Nikki Trivisonno, president of the Ohio State Chapter of the National Kitchen & Bath Association. \"But you have to be willing to make some compromises.\"

Start by updating the color and reducing clutter then add new hardware, fixtures and a backsplash. You'll go a long way toward stealing the high-end look you crave.

Replace the Hardware

\"Hardware has a really big impact on a kitchen's style, so changing it is a great way to freshen up the look of your kitchen,\" says Trivisonno.

For less than a couple hundred dollars and just a few hours of work, a homeowner can swap out every handle and knob in the kitchen. Styles range from contemporary to rustic to traditional. Finishes come in ultra-popular oil-rubbed bronze or easy-to-clean polished chrome. To make installation a breeze, Trivisonno suggests that homeowners bring along an old drawer pull when shopping to make sure the new hardware matches the holes of the previous set.

Depending on the style and finish of the hardware and the number of drawers and cabinets, the average kitchen can be completed for as little as $150.

Replace the Faucet

Fixtures are the jewelry of the kitchen, and the kitchen sink is often the focal point of the room. Investing in a new faucet is a simple and cost-effective way of giving the whole room an updated look. Like cabinet hardware, faucets come in a wide range of shapes, styles and finishes, making it easy to match the decor of the room.

Kitchen faucets come in single- and double-handled models and can include a separate pull-out sprayer, requiring an additional slot. Match the new faucet footprint to the old to save hours of frustration and quite possibly the cost of a brand new sink.

Install Stainless Steel Covers

\"For a really clean, contemporary look, a homeowner can easily install a stainless steel laminate backsplash,\" says Trivisonno.

Capped with a thin layer of stainless steel, copper or aluminum, metallic laminate sheets can be used as countertop backsplashes, as appliance covers and for the wall area behind the cooking range. And because they install with little more than a few dabs of panel adhesive, the job is easy enough for any do-it-yourselfer.

A properly sized metallic laminate panel affixed to the face of a refrigerator or dishwasher can modernize its look for a tiny fraction of what a new appliance would cost.

Add a Ceiling Fan

When shopping for a fan, look for the Energy Star Label, which means the product has met the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's energy-savings standards. Experts say an energy-efficient fan can save up to 40 percent on summer cooling costs and up to 10 percent in the winter. In other words, they're well worth the effort to install. They'll keep your kitchen cool and provide a new visual element to your space.

Buying or Selling a home soon? Give me a call for quick friendly advice, Pat 919-469-6530
or drop by my website at www.TriangleNC.com for more tips.

Get the most from your small rooms by following these easy tips...

2011-10-06T07:33:00.002-05:00

Many of you are buying your first home or in the process of downsizing from a larger home. Most people become little overwhelmed at the thought of compressing 4000 sq ft of furniture into 2000sq ft of new living spaces. What to keep and what to throw out become a major concern.
For first time homeowners, just trying to make the small spaces work for your lifestyle can also be a huge project.

I found this great article on HGTV that offers examples of how you can make the most out of small rooms.
I hope you find some inspiration here. Of course, you can always contact me directly and I will be happy to offer suggestions as well. Pat

Inspiring Small Spaces

Don't let the lack of square footage stifle creativity. See how designers and Rate My Spacers transform their tiny digs.

By Chelsey Bowen

Use the Entire Wall

Be a collector and a small space dweller with floor-to-ceiling bookshelves, like the ones designer Luis Caicedo created for this book lover's bedroom. Different sized alcoves create visual interest and fit the need for larger and smaller books without wasting any space.

No Wasted Space

When working with a small room, use every possible area. Designer Sarah Richardson finds an antique cabinet to fit perfectly between the two coat closets in the cottage mudroom. It provides extra storage below and still allows room for a beautiful vignette. Colorful red doors add a punch of color to this mostly neutral palette.

Smart Furnishings

Floating nightstands are a perfect solution for petite bedrooms. Most have a drawer or an open area for storage, but they don't take up valuable floor space, which helps the room look larger than it actually is. Design by Rethink Design Studio.

Maximize Your View

A favorite accessory for anyone decorating a small room, mirrors make a space appear larger and create appealing views, especially when placed across a favorite piece of artwork, cool furnishings or a well-designed display. Design by RMSer TheSharps.

Stand Out Pattern

Expand the room visually with an oversized graphic that can also act as a one-of-a-kind headboard. RMSer Rethink Design Studio uses a calming neutral palette to push back the walls and adds a collection of small mirrors to bounce light around the room.

Open Up the Walls

Don't weigh down kitchen walls with bulky cabinets. Use colorful open shelving to create the illusion of more space, while still providing plenty of storage. Design by Sarah Richardson.

Everything in Its Place

Tiny pantry? No problem. Use fun woven and wire baskets to keep all your pantry staples in line. Place similar items together on the shelves and make sure the space is well lit. Design by Rethink Design Studio.

Two Rooms in One

Get the most out of a small space by having it serve double duty. In this home office/guest bedroom, designer Erica Islas uses a desk that slides out of the way so a Murphy bed can be pulled down when guests are staying.

Built-In Alcoves

A corner between two windows often stays empty because it's hard to find a piece of furniture that fits. Transform it with a built-in corner cabinet to display collectibles, like RMSer Tetbury, or to store books and magazines.

Buying or selling a home this year?
Give me a call 919-469-6530. I'm happy to give you experienced, friendly advice to get you on your way. www.TriangleNC.com

Raleigh voted # 1 Best cities by Businessweek

2011-09-26T08:34:00.002-05:00

The Best Cities in America...
provided by

Thinkstock

1. Raleigh

Population: 377,487
Mayor: Charles Meeker

Why it's ranked: Taking more than a dozen data points into account, Raleigh ranks as the best place to live in the U.S. The city sports a high number of bars, restaurants, and cultural institutions as well as a thriving social scene, great parks, and good schools. Raleigh shows the cultural graces that go along with anchoring the so-called research triangle, home to North Carolina State University, Duke University, and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Of course, it's also much more. The city offers a great deal on nights and weekends, from concerts and opera to the 30,000-sq.-ft. State Farmer's Market. The data backs it up. North Carolina's state capitol is top in our book.

Here is the rest of the article..

Buying or selling a home this year?
We offer friendly advice based on 20 years of selling homes in the Raleigh and Cary areas.
919-469-6530 www.TriangleNC.com

Eastern Triangle Farm Tour...fun for the whole family

2011-09-18T08:06:00.001-05:00

"This year’s Eastern Triangle Farm Tour will be the biggest one yet! There will be 25 farms in all, including 5 new farms! Whether it is cute animals for the kids, meat, egg and fiber production, veggie and fruit growing, cut flowers and ornamentals, mushrooms, bees and honey or urban gardens and farms, we will have something for you -- across the eastern, northern and southern sections of the Triangle.

NEW this year: We are hosting Bob Davis, chicken guy extraordinaire, to talk about raising urban chickens. Bob is involved with the "Henside the Beltline Tour de Coop" and is an enthusiastic and knowledgeable chicken expert. He will be at the Interfaith Food Shuttle Farm on Saturday at 1:30 and at the SEEDS Garden on Sunday at 2:00. "

Ready for a great time? Click here to
Learn more

Buying or selling a home in Raleigh or Cary this year? Give me a call for fast friendly advice.
919-280-4567 www.TriangleNC.com

Enjoy Raleigh's great year round outdoor living by dressing up your backyard...

2011-08-25T11:23:00.000-05:00

Raleigh is known for it's year round mild weather so sprucing up your backyard is a great way to get the most enjoyment from the outdoors. You work hard all day so why not make your backyard a
"stay-home-getaway" where you can put your feet up and just relax without leaving home.
HGTV has some great photos that I'm going to share with you to get you inspired.
Have fun in your own backyard.

Dreamy Decks and Patios from HGTV

Browse these inspired outdoor gathering spots and gather ideas for your own backyard.

Adaptable Deck

This versatile outdoor space offers three different types of entertaining areas, depending on the weather: a gathering spot around the fire pit, a deck for sunny afternoons and an enclosed gazebo. Designed by Robert Hursthouse

Accommodating the Terrain

A sunken kitchen and shaded pavilion serve as a poolside retreat in this design by Scott Cohen for a steep property. Photo by the Green Scene

Private Playspace

Whether it's for roasting marshmallows with the kids or grown-up entertaining, the fireplace often becomes the outdoor gathering spot for the family. A new retaining wall on the steep slope provided the terrain for this patio and new lawn. A berm of cryptomeria trees will provide privacy from the neighbors. Designed by landscape architect Mark Schisler.

No Blowing in the Wind

Sheltered from wind yet open to the garden, this semi-enclosed space, designed by Dan Berger, offers protection for outdoor diners.

Western Outdoors

An extra-large fountain and a Western-style fireplace are the focal points of this patio; the design and materials create a seamless extension of living space for the home. Design by Scott Cohen.

Creekside Retreat

Designed by Dan Berger, this timber pergola provides a restful oasis beside a creek. Rock walls and plants help define the space.

Designed Around an Oven

The focal point of this new outdoor kitchen is a wood-fired pizza oven imported from Italy. The 36\" oven turned out to have a 52\" base, so landscape architect Mark Schisler had to move the counters three feet to accommodate it. The oven is covered with a stone veneer, rather than real stone, to save more space.

Bring Them On

Built by designer Shane LeBlanc, this open-air cabana is the headquarters for outdoor grilling and dining for a large family. The hardscaping project also included a super-sized pool and bleachers for an existing basketball court. The kitchen countertop was custom-made on site and hand-colored to replicate real stone.

Enchanted Landscape

Here, landscape designer Gelinda Backman was charged by the homeowners with the task of incorporating \"enchanted\" and \"ancient\" aspects into the makeover of a wooded backyard. A dining terrace and fire pit surrounded by stone walls are focal points of a landscape that also includes a rain garden, winding pathways and a koi pond.

Water Park, Take 2

This large home came with a code-violating, half-finished water park in the backyard. Landscape designer Derrick Meek demolished the eyesore, keeping only the retaining walls and camouflaging them with trees. The back walls contain large “picture frames” which, with their stone inlays, help break up the wall. The back door of the house now leads to an oversized entertainment patio and an even larger pool.

Patio Getaway

Dress It Up With Plants

Whether you have a plaza or a micro-courtyard, consider well-placed colorful container gardens your best decorating tool.
Okay. Let's get started.

Buying or Selling a home in Raleigh or Cary this year? Give me a call for fast friendly advice.
Visit me on-line www.TriangleNC.com or call 919-469-6530

Simple Staging can sell your home faster for more money...

2011-08-23T13:25:00.002-05:00

Simple Staging Tips by Champagne Staging

Save money and time on the market...

You've heard it all before.

Staging makes a huge difference in how well your home shows on-line

and in person to potential buyers.

Staging does not have to be an overwhelming project.

Here are some simple things you can do.

Bathrooms

Keep plungers & toilet brushes out of sight (we don't want Buyers thinking icky thoughts).

Remove your personal goodies like toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoos etc. from view.

Check & see if you need fresh caulk around your sinks & tubs.

Mr. Clean Magic Eraser does wonders on shower door scum!

Icky grout? Use Soft Scrub with bleach & an old toothbrush to clean the grout. It's a pain,
but the end result is worth it!

Hang fresh, unwashed towels for showings. Don't forget to remove them after a showing
so nobody uses them!

Pick up area rugs for showings. They tend to "chop up" the floor. Also, people want to
see what they are buying!

Paint (aka money in a can!)

Keep colors neutral, but warm. Stay away from antique white,
navajo white or off white for walls - boring!

Use flat paint for walls when selling. Its less expensive and any
imperfections won't show as much.

Use semi gloss for baseboards & doors. Its easy to clean and holds
up well in these high traffic areas.

If you are trying to match a wall color, be sure to get the SAME
BRAND as is the original paint. The same formula for "Sage Green"
will be turn out different at different at Home Depot, ACE or
Sherwin Williams.

This house sat on the market forEVER. When the paint was changed and a little staging was done it sold in a matter of days.

Kitchens

Remove trash cans for showings

Wipe down cabinets. If they are real wood use Pledge Orange Oil to remove water spots and
give a fresh shine.

Clean the little vent slats on your oven & microwave & the grease spots from the stove hood.

No more than 3 small appliances on the counters. (Make sure they are in good shape)

ALWAYS REMOVE KNIVES from plain view for showings. Let's keep our agents protected.

Check the caulk around the back splash & sinks.

Hang a fresh, colorful towel on the stove.

If you have an island, put a nice colorful fruit bowl or vase of flowers for showings. (Plus it will
be cheery too!)

Curb Appeal

Use fresh mulch, preferably dark brown or black. Use pine straw for large
areas.

Add colorful annuals as the seasons permit.

Power wash the front walkway, steps & porch.

Fertilize & weed your lawn. Green lawn = green money in your pocket!

Paint your front door so it looks fresh.

Update your door locks & outdoor lights if they are peeling or look rough.

Trim bushes to reveal at least 2/3 of the front windows.

Buying or selling a home this year?

Give me a call for friendly advice anytime 919-469-6530

www.TriangleNC.com

Low Cost ideas to update your home this weekend...

2011-08-16T09:57:00.001-05:00

6 Easy low cost ideas

courtsey Kilplinger report

Switch Out Your Dishwasher

Replacing your dishwasher is not only an aesthetic upgrade but can be an environmentally conscious one too. With various finishes -- black, white, stainless steel or matching cabinet-paneled -- switching out your dishwasher can quickly update your whole kitchen.

The Energy Star-rated Bosch Evolution 800 series (SHE65PO; $998 in stainless steel at Sears) surpasses federal requirements for energy-efficiency by 80% and uses less than 3 gallons of water per cycle (compared with the 8 gallons used by a dishwasher built before 1994). Typical savings on utility bills: about $50 annually.

Organization

Organizing your kitchen cabinets and shelves can save you lots of time and sanity. Drawer organizers and cabinet racks will make a kitchen free of clutter. Adding slide-out cabinet shelves at www.shelvesthatslide.com for $32-$60 per shelf can make the room more accessible for everyone in the family.

Your Backsplash

Changing the backsplash in your kitchen can breathe new life into the space. With a variety of finishes and colors, you can go from country to modern in a snap. It’s easy with Aspect peel-and-stick, 3-by-6 inch tiles in brushed metal ($21 per square foot at Lowe’s).

A New Sink

The most overworked piece in the kitchen can often be neglected. Add efficiency with a top-mounted, two-basin model in stainless steel (Kohler Toccata, $178 at Home Depot). Add a single-control faucet, such as the Kohler Coralais with pull-out spray nozzle ($167) or the Pegasus Arko with pull-down spray and high-arc spigot ($279).

Switch to Hardwood Flooring

It’s the most expensive flooring options, but wood brings timeless appeal to any space. Hardwood comes in different grains and stains and ranges in price from $9 to $22 per square foot installed. Bamboo ($12-$28 per square foot installed) is the green alternative. With a tighter “grain” it is a more modern look and is very durable.

Engineered wood (Bruce Engineered Cherry Hardwood at Lowes, $106 per 22.5 square feet) is a more cost effective option that doesn’t require a tool belt. The interlocking system floats and gives your floor a new look without a nail in sight.

Add Ceramic Tile

Ceramic tile is also a lush option for a kitchen floor. Think terracotta. These squares come in a variety of colors and sizes. A disadvantage though is their temperature under your feet (wear socks) and most anything will break when it falls. The price range for these tiles is $3 to $20 per square foot, installed.

I hope you found these tips helpful.

Thinking of buying or selling a home this year?

Call us for friendly advice anytime 919-469-6530 or visit us on-line www.TriangleNC.com

Make dramatic changes with paint and save dollars...

2011-08-04T15:05:00.000-05:00

I love make over tricks, especially the ones that don't cost much. Paint is cheap and if you hate it once you're done, just paint over it!

You can make a huge difference in a room by painting one wall, all the walls or by painting key pieces of furniture.

HGTV just sent me this link with some great color ideas so I thought I'd share them with you today.
Have fun and let me know which look inspires you. Pat

20 Designer Tricks of the Trade for Using Paint Colors

We know you love color and the eight paint color collections from HGTV® HOME by Sherwin-Williams offer simple ways to design your space like a pro. Courtesy of Sherwin-Williams

By Kristen Wingard

Set the Tone With Color

What do you want your home to say about you? The entry sets the decorating tone for your entire home so welcome guests by wrapping them in the beauty of color. Studies show chartreuse is equally alluring to both sexes so even utilitarian pieces like a bench are opportunities to put your own sense of style in full view.

Urban Organic - Walls: Armagnac; Trim: Crisp Linen; Bench: Parakeet with a Burnished Brandy wash

Spread (Any) Color Around

Neutral background choices mean greater decorating flexibility. Here, cool maritime blues are sprinkled throughout the space for a coastal-inspired vibe. From furniture to window treatments to tiny bands around basket lids, this accent use — whether soothing or vibrant — speaks everyone's language.

Coastal Cool - Walls: Accessible Beige; Bookshelf: Curio Gray; Trim: Eider White

Trick the Eye With Molding

Did you notice there are only two pictures in this view of a very large living room? Painting the picture frame molding white rather than the soft gray wall color creates drama, keeping your eye moving — and interested.

Livable Luxe - Walls: Gateway Gray; Trim: Snowbound

Focus on Furniture

Tip: Create a standout focal point by putting the color emphasis on furniture rather than the walls. Soulful gray is a softer stand-in for black or white and while a great accent, it also works wonders as a dominant choice, creating an elegant, clean slate for this design strategy.

Color Pizazz - Desk wall: Peppercorn; Foreground wall: Tony Taupe; Desk: Frolic

Don't Be Afraid of Heights

Designers call the ceiling the \"fifth wall\" and know the impact of going beyond white. Don't be afraid to use dark colors on ceilings as they can actually make a space seem more expansive. This bedroom doesn't take the typical color approach, making the fuchsia ceiling the first thing you see. Purple is known to stimulate intuition, to soothe and to pamper, so it's a natural fit for bedrooms, bathrooms or meditation spaces.

Global Spice - Walls: Natural Choice; Ceiling: Framboise

Less Really Is More

Mies Van Der Rohe was right. In this case, white painted brick sets a quiet, textural background for a splash of color. A new look is as easy as swapping out the area rug or green chair for another color or a pattern. Sometimes keeping it simple is the only way to go.

Color Pizazz - Brick wall: Pure White; Right wall: Tango

Highlight With Color

Call attention to an interesting room feature, even if you use neutral colors. Without the striking grid pattern, this painted ceiling would still envelop this space with warmth and interest by highlighting the gorgeous wide crown molding.

Traditional Twist - Living room: Burlap; Dining room: Stone Lion; Trim: Incredible White

Follow Mother Nature's Lead

Dynamic colors that capture the energy of the city pair beautifully with down-to-earth neutrals. This contrast of color influences creates a hip, eclectic yet natural vibe, which gives you the opportunity to really have fun with your decor.

Urban Organic - Cabinets: Urbane Bronze; Walls: Hearts of Palm; Pantry: Bee's Wax; Trim: Crisp Linen

Create Continuity With Color

This unexpected and bold black foyer color extends up the staircase, providing continuity from the first floor to the second. The dramatic crown molding and classic furniture/accessories complement the sophisticated backdrop for a unified \"welcome to our home.\"

Traditional Twist - Walls: Tricorn Black; Trim: Incredible White

Split the Difference

Complement a room's wainscoting by taking the opportunity to use two coordinating colors on the walls. This classic combo of yellow and blue evokes the cheerful and relaxed feeling of the sea, whether you live near water or just dream about it.

Coastal Cool - Lower walls: Watery; Walls: Hearts of Palm; Trim: Eider White

Skew the Traditional View

Strong colors don't have to be below the chair rail. Flip the typical approach with a \"heavier\" color above for a quiet, understated atmosphere well suited to a collection of vintage pieces and rustic charm. For easy, harmonious arrangements, these subtle colors are hard to beat.

Neutral Nuance - Wainscot: Ethereal Mood; Walls: Riverway; Trim: Dover White

Cut In High and Bright

When choosing a paint color, there are no limits so experiment with hues from across the spectrum. At first glance, this energetic color may not be for you, but take a simple design lesson from it: Go for it! A small wall is perfect for experimenting and expressing yourself without a big investment of time or money.

Color Pizazz - Inset wall: Exuberant Pink; Wall: Mindful Gray

Try Taupe and Texture

Since it's a mix of beige and gray, taupe is a perfect neutral that comes to life surrounded by accessories with interesting textures and reflective surfaces. Bring out its brilliance by determining if your shade is warm (with yellow or red undertones) or cool (contains hints of blue or gray). Pair warm taupes with warm colors and vice versa for a successful design plan.

Neutral Nuance - Walls: Universal Khaki; Trim: Dover White

Cocoon With Color

Enveloping yourself with a refined wall color in a private space is a luxurious treat. Reflect a relaxed lifestyle yet still convey an air of sophistication using an upholstered headboard and plush bedding. Keep the look light by grounding it with a beige carpet or area rug.

Livable Luxe - Walls: Special Gray; Hallway: Wool Skein; Trim: Snowbound

Create Color Flow

Room-to-room harmony isn't hard to achieve when you choose a down-to-earth palette like this one inspired by sun-baked adobe, Italian stucco and sandstone. Select brighter tones for optimistic appeal or add romance by combining warm tones of umber, copper and earthen clay.

Rustic Refined - Family room: White Raisin; Dining room: Brandywine; Pantry: Independent Gold; Trim: Creamy

Small Color Doses = Big Impact

Afraid to commit an entire room to a certain color? Paint an accent wall, and then tie in the accessories and window treatments so that color is spread throughout a space. This designer trick proves experimenting with paint can be fun and easy.

Neutral Nuance - Walls: Accessible Beige; Accent wall: Escape Gray; Trim: Dover White

Choose Two for One

Even though our lives are less formal today, we still enjoy elegance. Combining two soft shades in one large room provides contrast and relaxed sophistication. Save bolder choices for when and where you want high contrasts for added drama.

Livable Luxe - Left wall: Wool Skein; Back wall and ceiling: Silvermist; Trim: Snowbound

Simplify Making Color Changes

It's always smart to stick with the designer tip of keeping large purchases/items neutral (like the sofa, stools, area rug, artwork and window treatments seen here). Add color where it's easier and much less expensive to change: the walls and smaller furniture pieces like the dining table and display case.

Coastal Cool - Foreground wall: Recycled Glass; Background walls: Restful; Trim: Eider White; Island in foreground: Fawn Brindle; Table: Rapture Blue

Black Works Anywhere

Nothing makes a statement quite like black. Framing the red/orange accent section with black draws your eye to the kitchen, making the feature wall pop with warm, electrifying vibrancy. It's perfect for those who know how to take a serious color less seriously.

Global Spice - Dining room: Garden Sage; Accent wall: Sealskin; Kitchen wall: Peppery

Color Inside the (Architectural) Lines

Create interest and highlight architectural features by using natural breaks in the wall planes to add more color. Using white on the wainscoting expands this bedroom and because orange is warm with high visibility, it's perfect for emphasizing the space's main focal point.

Traditional Twist - Walls: Gingery; Lower walls and trim: Incredible White; Furniture: Tricorn Black

Buying or selling a home this year?
I'd love to help you.
I'll guide you each step of the way. Visit me on-line at www.TriangleNC.com 919-469-6530

Quartz, Recycled Glass, Bamboo or Granite countertops...which is best?

2011-07-28T16:15:00.002-05:00

Posted: 3:48 p.m. Tuesday
Updated: 7:01 p.m. Tuesday for wral
Are you ready to ditch your dated kitchen and remodel it? One of the biggest expenses is the countertops, so you want to use a material that will both look great and hold up over time.
There are lots of different types to choose from. To help you narrow the choices, Consumer Reports tested 14 different countertop materials.
"We checked out popular surfaces like granite and quartz," said Chris Regan of Consumer Reports. “New to our tests we have recycled glass, bamboo and soapstone."
To see how well a countertop resists stains, testers applied 20 common substances, such as tomato sauce and grape juice, and then let them sit overnight.
“We tested bamboo countertops with a mixture of a beeswax and mineral oil finish. Both countertops looked great out of the box, but not so much after our tests," Regan said. Both stained badly. Even coffee and tea stained them, which most other surfaces could handle.

Consumer Reports also tested to see if counters can take the heat – literally. They set a pot of 400-degree oil on the countertop for one hour. Scorch marks were left behind on the bamboo counters.
In fact, Consumer Reports said that bamboo is actually the worst-performing countertop material they've ever tested. But Regan also found problems with some of the recycled-glass countertops.
The counters from Eco by Cosentino cracked within 12 minutes.The crack went from the pot to the counter's edge.
But recycled-glass countertops from two other manufacturers did not crack.
When all the tests were done, quartz and granite countertops came out on top. Either surface can chip, but getting a rounded edge helps minimize the risk of chipping.
Also, be aware that natural stone surfaces can vary widely, even within the same slab. That's why it's best to go to a stone yard and pick out the actual stone you want.

Buying or selling a home this year? Give us a call 919-469-6530 www.TriangleNC.com

Cary Parks and Hiking Trails...

2011-07-11T14:08:00.000-05:00

Cary Parks and Hiking Trails

Looking for a little outside fun? Cary has a surprising number of large parks that offer everything from hiking, boating, bird watching or fishing. One of the many things I love about Cary is the weather. You can have fun all year long outside. It rarely gets too hot or too cold to be outside and I love being outdoors.

Love to walk? Here are two great parks you'll want to visit soon.

Miles of walking trails at Fred Bond Park

Fred Bond Park is located off High House Road in the heart of Cary. Here you can fish, bike, hike or just relax and have a picnic. There are dedicated areas just for children too. Bond Park is over 310 acres with a 42 acre lake full of bass fish. Numerous classes are available at Bond Park through Cary Parks and Recreation, including fishing, boating, orienteering, a ropes course, and many fitness classes. There are indoor classes offered for dancing, crafts, yoga, games and many other activities at the community center and the senior center located inside the park. Many of the park's facilities can be rented for private functions. Click here to learn more.

Hemlock Bluffs peaceful retreat...

Hemlock Bluffs is a nature preserve with over 3 miles of trails and several scenic observation platforms. Here a tree species flourishes hundreds of miles from its normal habitat. A handful of Eastern Hemlock trees can be seen at Hemlock Bluffs Nature Preserve, off Kildaire Farm Road."They're relics from the Ice Age," state program specialist Mark John said. "Ten to 12 million years ago, there were hemlocks all over this part of the state." But the climate changed, and Eastern Hemlock trees died out east of the mountains. Growing conditions stayed perfect for the Eastern Hemlock at this North-facing bluffs above a shallow stream. It helped create the only place east of North Carolina's mountains where the Eastern Hemlock grows. According to the experts, some of the trees are between 300 and 400 years old.

Moving to Cary? Let us introduce you to our town...www.TriangleNC.com 919-469-5430

Future Homes center on entertainment rooms

2011-07-09T07:26:00.002-05:00

Entertainment rooms critical through 2015...
BY MARY G. PEPITONE, UNIVERSAL UCLICK

More families are bringing their A-game home. Sports enthusiasts are designing space in their homes to not only watch the big game on television, but to also play their own games of pool, poker, table tennis, darts or air hockey.

According to the National Association of Home Builders’ “Home of the Future” study, nearly a quarter of industry experts surveyed predict an “entertainment room” will remain a critical part of new home construction through 2015.

“A home’s entertainment room is just that: the perfect place to have a party and entertain guests,” says Stephen Melman, NAHB spokesperson in Washington, D.C. “This space can have a home theater set-up with a bar and game area. It adds a whole new dimension to a family’s ‘staycation’ experience.”

But, a homeowner has to plan ahead if the name of the game is having fun. Before buying anything for a prospective game -- or entertainment -- room, Ron Greenbaum, owner of J and D Basement Systems near Columbus, Ohio, says to first play the waiting game.

“Before the design phase can begin, homeowners have to make sure the space is well-prepared,” Greenbaum says. “That means doing due diligence and controlling humidity in a basement or insulating the space in a loft above the garage. Otherwise, you’re throwing your money away.”

When it comes to remodeling an existing area, Greenbaum says homeowners, on average, spend around 10-percent of the value of their home to prepare the space for a game room. The makings of a man-cave with a game room are usually subterranean in homes with a basement. A game room can also be located in a reinforced attic space, or in a sunroom or covered porch in homes without a basement.

A game room should be a penalty-free zone that reflects a family’s interests. That means designing a space to accommodate the games people play, says Greenbaum.

Some of Greenbaum’s clients have game both on and off the football field. Recently, Greenbaum’s designers help build a game room that also enshrines Ohio State Buckeyes football memorabilia. The decor features red and white players’ jerseys, helmets and game balls, while guests can watch the game on the big screen from the comfort of red leather chairs.
“When it comes to the perfect game room, it’s all about what the homeowners want and what their interests are,” he says.

For most, a pool table is the centerpiece of a game room. The Billiard Congress of America says a poolroom should have a 5-foot clearance on each side of the table to allow enough room for comfortable play.

Some homeowners up the ante even higher in the game room, where poker night can be every night. Allow at least 3-foot clearance on each side of the table when selecting the proper poker table for a game room. A standard four-seat table requires a 9-by-9-foot space. A deluxe eight-seat table (or Texas Hold’em Table) requires a 12-by-9-foot area.

“We also find that most people combine the TV room with a game room,” Greenbaum says. “If you can’t afford to buy tickets to see a game at the stadium, you can still enjoy watching the action from the comfort of your home.”
Greenbaum says the set-up around a large-screen television can range from comfy couches to home theater seating. Foosball, darts, air hockey, shuffleboard and pinball machines are games that appeal to children of all ages.
Homeowners can also purchase a special cover for a pool table, which easily converts it into a table tennis surface. This simple solution provides twice the fun without sacrificing twice the space.
Today’s game rooms aren’t just a place to have a good time, they have to look good, too. “Homeowners want their game room to be a fun escape, but still want it to feel like a part of their house,” Greenbaum says.

Now, there are more customized options for today’s game tables, so the look can fit with other furnishings found in the home. Table options for pool, poker and shuffleboard include different woods (oak, maple, cherry, pine), finishes (ranging from natural to pecan stains) and table leg styles (popular choices include Ball and Claw, Ram’s Head, straight or tapered.) Arcade games also come in different colors, and new pinball machines have done away with the clunky coin slot doors.
“A game room is a personal space that reflects a family’s interests,” Greenbaum says. “The space can be a magnet for family and friends, and, frankly, there’s no place like home.

Moving to Cary this year? Use us as your information resource. Cary is my home and I would love to tell you about our town. http://www.trianglenc.com/ or call Pat 919-469-6530

Buying your first home in Cary?

2011-07-06T07:15:00.001-05:00

Ready to buy your first home?

Here are several things to consider. Determine what your needs are and whether owning your own home will meet those needs.

Do you picture yourself mowing the lawn on Saturday, or walking out your urban condo to restaurants or other entertainment? The best advice is to look at buying a home as a lifestyle investment, and only secondly as a financial investment.

Arrange financing before shopping for a home. I can recommend some reliable local lenders for you to interview. Most lenders will "pre-qualify" you for a certain loan amount. The lender will review your finances with you and give you a loan amount you can borrow to purchase your home. This will help you focus on homes you can afford. It also makes you a more attractive buyer and can help you negotiate a lower purchase price. Nothing is more disheartening for buyers or sellers than a deal that falls through due to a lack of financing.

Another thing to consider before you start looking at homes, look at neighborhoods. Schools and other services play a large part in making a neighborhood attractive. Even if you don't have children, your future buyer may. Crime rates, taxes, transportation, recreation and town services are other things to look at. Finally, learn the local zoning laws in case you decide to expand your home in the future or if you want to work out of your home.

For fast reponse to your questions call me at 919-469-6530 or contact me on-line

Get the most for your home in a buyers market...

2011-07-03T09:58:00.004-05:00

Search all Homes For Sale here

Increase your bottom line when you sell your home by taking a few strategic steps before the sales sign goes up.

Understand first of all that there IS a difference between price and value. Price is the amount you are asking for the property. Value is buyer perceived, and this perception of value is influenced by many factors such as location, features, condition, comparison to other purchase option, etc. By attending to details that can have a positive impact on the value, sellers can significantly increase their chance of attracting qualified buyers willing to pay the asking price.

Here are a few tips that will add value to your home:

Perceived size impacts value, even more so than actual square footage. Open floor plans make a room feel bigger than larger spaces with smaller rooms. Showing property that is furniture free, or at reduced clutter, helps to make the space feel bigger.
Vacancy increases sale-ability. Property is easier to show and easier to sell, and quicker to take possession of when it is vacant at the time it is offered for sale. Evidence of problems to take possession of the property -- such as encroachments, or tenants who wont allow buyer tours -- negatively impact value. Vacancy also helps the buyer walk through the property imagining ownership. Sellers should remove personal trinkets and family pictures as well as being conveniently absent during a buyer tour.
Cosmetics are important.
Fresh paint will always add more value than it costs.
Clean or new carpet/flooring adds more value than it costs.
Landscaping adds more value than it costs. At the very minimum, make the entrance area neat.
If you can, add some colorful flowers and new sod.
Take care of the obvious! The spot on the ceiling from the roof leak takes thousands of dollars from the perceived value and the offer price.
Condition affects value.
Consider a seller's home inspection to identify and fix the problem BEFORE closing. A buyer's inspection could cost you the sale. Buyers will often bargain down your asking price to accomodate for property condition and repairs.

If you can, remodel/update the kitchen and master bathroom. These two areas have a big impact on home buying decisions. Try a bold color for a dramatic updated look.
Strategic renovations impact value and your bottom line. Don't spend more money to renovate the place than you can recapture in value on the sales price.

I hope these are helpful tips. If you are considering selling your home this year, give me a call for a Free, No Obligation market evaluation. Pat 919-469-6530 visit me on-line at http://www.trianglenc.com/

Take your kitchen from okay to Wow....

2011-06-16T08:59:00.000-05:00

In today's market place, you need every edge you can get.
We all know how imprtant kitchen and bathrooms are to buyers. So, I recommend spending a little extra to make them standout in your buyers minds so they will come back for a second look and buy your house!

Lets face it, we've all seen this same kitchen...out there. Builder grade cabinets, builder beige wall color, a cheap product and nothing to look at....yawn. Instead of saying "buy ME", boring kitchens pretty much say what sellers hate to hear..."Next!"

Clean but boring...

This kitchen isn't a total turn off. I give kudos to a clean presentation and apparent good repair. (That's probably better than a lot of other kitchens in the same price point). However, when buyers are seeing a dozen houses they all start to run together and we need to provide a little "oomph" and warm fuzzy to set off that emotional giddy we want them to have. Buyers also want and EXPECT the little "extras" in today's market.

Add Accessories!
(Think of what pearls do for a "little black dress.")
Doesn't this look better? Adding door hardware is the equivalent of adding jewelry to a dress, or cufflinks to a dress shirt. Knobs and pulls give that little extra "bling" that makes something ordinary (aka builder grade cabinets) stand out.
Okay here is the good part! If you go to Lowe's or Home Depot, even Target in a pinch, you can purchase various types of kitchen hardware by the pack! I spent $19.99 at Lowes for a 20 pack of cabinets pulls for a flip house we recently sold and let me say it made a world of difference. We want HIGH IMPACT at LOW COST and here it is guys, an easy solution for an upgraded look.

The Final Step - Color!
Paint is the most AMAZING thing and again, can either help make a sale, or send a buyer screaming in terror. Since we prefer the first choice, lets make sure we do it right.

We all know that the party always ends up in the kitchen so when a kitchen gets a buyers attention this is always a huge plus. A gallon of eggshell paint at Lowes is around $25 and covers 350 - 400 square feet. Most of us know how to paint a room and if we can't, we know someone who owes us a favor who CAN paint. You can see by the pictures that a warm, neutral color makes the kitchen seem more upgraded and loved, and not just another blah kitchen like you house down the street has.

$25 for Paint, $20 for knobs and your builder grade kitchen will look fantastic!

My absolute favorite kitchen color is called "Grasslands" by Sherwin Williams (its in my kitchen too) but I'm happy to help your sellers pick out colors for any room. Be sure to redo the caulk if you have to for a polished, well cared for look.

What do 2011 Home Buyers want?

2011-06-07T16:13:00.000-05:00

If you are selling a home this year, you may be wondering why your home has not sold or why you don't have many showings. What do Home Buyers want?
Here is a great article from Bankrate.com

Today's homebuyers want it all.
Some items on the shopping list: a home in great condition with rooms that can do double duty. Areas that mingle indoor and outdoor living -- patios, porches, decks and outdoor rooms -- are always a plus. And so are those features that offer a little luxury, like garden tubs, first-rate appliances and high-dollar countertops.

They're also going back to basics: searching for solid, well-maintained properties that will give them their money's worth.
But more than anything, buyers want to drive a hard bargain.
Buyers want great deals. And no matter where a seller prices their property, they're looking to negotiate.
Here are nine items popular with buyers this year:
Homes in Standout Condition
Buyers demand homes that are well maintained. There's not a lot of flexibility in that. The attitude is: "I'd rather spend the money getting into the house and not have to spend more money later. Buyers don't want an unknown expense hanging over their heads.
I'm not working with too many people who want a fixer-uppers.
One big reason: With most transactions, buyers have limited amounts of cash. Even if they want to do a fixer-upper, they don't have the money to do it.
Buyers have enough money to buy. They don't have enough money to buy and improve. And the lenders make it really difficult.
Rock-Bottom Bargains
Buyers are more focused on negotiating, drawing limits in their mind and focusing on the strategy.
Buyers want value. "They are very picky. They're just a lot more critical. They are not going to settle because they know they don't have to.
Advice to sellers: Repair, update, clean and stage. You have got to remove every obstacle possible for the buyers.
The more-for-less approach even holds when buyers consider bank-owned properties. They want the short sales and the foreclosures and they want them to look like they're owner-occupied. They don't want to paint. They don't want to put carpet in. They don't want to clean.
And they're surprised when they don't find it.
Outdoor Living Areas
The thing that we've seen over the past couple of years is more outdoor living areas. Some popular features: Screen porches, outdoor kitchens, two-way fireplaces.
It's a selling point if a house already has it. And it's going to make it more competitive on the market.
Incentives
Call it Rock-bottom deals, part two.
Along with pricing, it's all about incentives. To pique buyer interest, sellers offer everything from gift cards for new furniture and paint to financial assistance at closing.
Not only are (buyers) asking them to lower the price, but they are asking for a lot more. So negotiations are a lot more difficult now.

Practical Green Features
Buyers are looking for things like triple-glazed windows, high-efficiency boilers and energy-efficient appliances. "The buyer of today wants to make sure that the ongoing operating costs of the house are as controlled and economical as possible.
Another popular item: nontech green features. Buyers are looking at the sun exposure in relation to energy efficiency. And that's something that will vary with the area and region. In some areas, you want larger overhangs to minimize the sun (think hot summer months). Lots of windows on the southern side to maximize the sun is always popular.
Open Kitchens
The wall between the kitchen and the family room has been evaporating.
The kitchen is becoming part of the gathering space. And it's ironic -- it's the way it was 300 years ago. We've come full circle.
Repurposed Materials
Buyers like a material that looks or feels natural, even if it's not the genuine article. For example, "granite (for counters) is still popular, but it doesn't have to be granite," he says. "It can be stone, another natural material or something that looks like stone.
We're seeing lots of different materials and lots of reusable materials, which is interesting. Also a lot of unusual uses of hardwood -- like pine flooring (reclaimed and) reused for counters," or terra cotta slabs -- beautifully glazed -- used for countertops.
Smaller, Less-Formal Homes
Buyers are buying smaller homes, but they want to be able to use and reuse every inch of space. They are being much more strategic and efficient with how they use it.
Formal spaces that might only be used three or four times per year are disappearing. The slipcover rooms are gone.
That's "led to a repurposing of space," he says. Formal living rooms have been added to great rooms or converted into home offices or entertainment rooms.
Three to five years ago, if they could get a loan that would get them into a McMansion with stone and tile and brick and more rooms than they needed, they would do it. Now they're saying 'I don't know if I want to heat that place and clean it. They're being much more realistic.
Touches of Luxury
Buyers like luxury. And sometimes the amenities that convey that feeling of living large are relatively simple or inexpensive.
One example: coffee bars in the master bedroom. It's like a butler's pantry in your bedroom. An area for your coffee pot and accoutrements and a little fridge.
The feature has been popular, especially in high-end homes, for about five years.
Another luxury touch: high-dollar finishes in less-expensive homes, Knoll says. Granite counters and stainless steel appliances, marble tiles in the bathrooms and vessel or undermount sinks continue to impress, he says.
Buyers also like a living space where you can have barstools and do some entertaining.

I hope you found this helpful.
Thinking of buying a home this year?
Let us take the stress out of buying and selling a home.
We're here to offer friendly expert advice with no pressure. http://www.trianglenc.com/

Selling Cary NC homes with the right staging!

2011-05-26T13:09:00.000-05:00

Here are some great staging tips courtesy of Karen Reynolds Home Stager & Real Estate Photographer.

Curb Appeal: Use black or dark brown mulch in your planter beds to really stand out from the crowd. Buy it from somewhere like Carolina Landscape or Capitol Mulch (about $26 for a big truckful) instead of a big box store where it is $5 a bag. You will save tons of money. Pine straw is a little less expensive, but very overused. Your buyers will remember the "designer mulch."

Furniture Placement: In bedrooms, position the head of the bed on the all farthest from the door. Not only will the room look larger, but it will draw the buyers into the room to "feel" the space. We all know if buyers don't walk INTO rooms, odds are they aren't going to feel the love and make an offer.

Living Rooms: Never cram all of your furniture flat against the walls. It makes it look like you are desperate to make a space appear larger. Pull your sofas & chairs a couple of inches away from the walls to create visual depth. If the room is large enough, "float" the furniture so buyers can have at least a 24" walkway behind it.

Window Treatments: Nothing can make a house feel dark & dated more than heavy window treatments. Swags should be removed. Sheers that are under other drapes must go. (It's preferable to leave just the sheers on each side of the window). Lace --do I even have to say it? It has to go. (Same with lace table cloths and bedding). Remember - natural light is your friend!

Knick Knacks: My cardinal rule is everything that is smaller than a cantaloupe must go away. The eye stops when ever it sees an object, so if buyers eyes are busy looking at oodles of knick knacks, they will never appreciate the true size of a room. *No More than 3 items on any surface is key!

Paint: White/antique white paint is a huge no-no these days. White may say "clean", but it also says cold, sterile & uninviting. Tans & greens can be neutral yet warm. We like Sherwin Williams "Toasted Pine Nut," "Ivoirie," "Grassland" and "Cargo Pants". Small, easy to paint accent walls in vivid colors are okay too as long as they aren't too "wild."
Ceiling & Floor Registers: These can get worn & rusted quickly, especially in bathrooms. They are also VERY expensive to replace. The solution is a $5 can of glossy white spray paint and about 45 seconds per register to repaint. Wash the registers in warm, soapy water, dry them in the sun and spraypaint. It is cheap, easy & they will look brand new!

Screens: Removing the screens lets more light into a house, and the windows feel cleaner. If at all possible, we suggest removing at least the front window screens & storing them in the garage, so that buyers know the house comes with screens - they just arent hung.
THANKS!
Thanks for your time today.

If you are selling or buying a home this year, I am ready to help you get started.
Call today or options and pricing 919-469-6530 or visit us on-line http://www.trianglenc.com/

Forget Frugal and earn more Money!

2011-05-09T06:50:00.001-05:00

New York Times by Ramit Sethi

I like this article because it is just about impossible to save enough money by cutting expenses to make a huge difference in your overall financial situation. Pat

"Think of the last 10 pieces of personal finance advice you've read. Do any of these sound familiar?
• Cut back on lattes!
• The world's top 10 coupons
• Don't go on vacation this year!
If you boil all the advice down, there are just two ways to improve your financial situation: earn more or cut costs. So why don't more personal finance experts talk about earning more? Because most of them don't know how."
Read the full article...

Thinking of buying a home in Cary this year?
Give us a call 919-469-6530.
Let us show you how to get the most home for your dollars. http://www.trianglenc.com/

Pat Hensley

Hot new Kitchen Tends for 2011

2011-03-16T08:03:00.000-05:00

Its that time of year again.
We take a good look at our home and wonder what we can do to make our home look as exciting as it was when we first bought the house. We've seen the new homes and our friends re-designs now we are ready to take on our kitchen.

HGTV is a great source for inspiration so here is a link I found very helpful if you are in the mood to make changes in your kitchen this year.

Come back for more ideas and inspiration.

Ready for a new home this year?
Give us a call. We'll show you where the best selling neighborhoods are and what to look for to make sure you are getting the most value for your dollars and long term benefits of home ownership.

Pat Hensley 919-469-6530 pat4homes@gmail.com
http://www.trianglenc.com/
Check us out on facebook for daily housing tips... http://www.4cary.com/

Triangle noted as brain magnet.

2011-02-17T08:21:00.002-05:00

Scholars continue migrating South...
Published Thu, Feb 17, 2011 04:17 AM
Triangle noted as brain magnet.
The Triangle, a perennial front-runner in popularity rankings, has won another plaudit. Forbes magazine said Wednesday that the area is the nation's No. 2 brain magnet.
That's to say, the Raleigh-Durham-Cary metro area rates highly in terms of the number of college grads gained in recent years, when compared to the region's population ages 25 and older.
Forbes' finding is in keeping with other surveys that rank this area highly in terms of livability, affordability and other desirable traits.
The country's top brain magnet, according to Forbes, was the New Orleans area. It is rapidly gaining college grads as professionals return to a city that was depopulated by Hurricane Katrina.
Forbes says that college graduates are increasingly looking for affordable, suburban environments where they can find a job. Many come to places like the Triangle after failing to hit the big time in New York and Los Angeles.
Another trend is that the young and educated are moving to the South. Other regions on the brainy list were Austin, Texas; Nashville, Tenn.; Birmingham, Ala.; Kansas City, Mo.; Columbus, Ohio; Denver, Seattle and San Diego.

Thinking of buying a home in the Triangle area this year?
Let us guide through our housing market .
Visit us on-line http://raleighcaryhomesales.com/home-page.asp 919-280-4567
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Quorum Center in downtown Raleigh to auction off 14 condos in March

2011-02-10T11:53:00.000-05:00

.biz - Quorum Center in downtown Raleigh to auction off 14 condos.
newsobserver.com blogs

A second downtown Raleigh condominium project is reverting to an auction to reduce inventory.
The Residences at Quorum Center announced this morning that it would auction its
remaining 14 condos on Sunday, March 20 in the downtown Marriott on Fayetteville Street.

Starting bids for the condos range from $120,000 to $325,000. That's significantly less
than the $300,000 starting price listed on the projects website.

On Halloween last year, West, the 17-story condo project in Glenwood South,
auctioned off 32 of its units and recorded $8 million in sales in a single day.
The auctions are a response to a downtown marketplace where a handful of condo projects are going after a shrinking number of prospective buyers.

As the sluggish sales environment has dragged on, more and more projects face pressure to reduce inventory.
One downtown condo project, Hue, failed last year without selling a single unit and has since been turned into rentals.
Bloomsbury Estates, a 56-unit condo project, has sold just 10 units, according to Wake County property records.
Highwoods Properties has sold 114 of the 139 condo units in the RBC tower. Just 14 of
those sales happened over the last year.
The 15-story Quorum Center, developed by Ted Reynolds and his son David, is located
on Jones Street. It has a total of 37 units.
The winning bids in last year's West auction ranged from $169,050 to $425,250 a unit,
which were as much as 40 percent lower than earlier list prices.
The prices were also significantly lower than the market rate prices paid by the 80
people who had bought units in West since it opened in 2008.

For more on the auction go .Here
If you would like our help in guiding you through the Auction process, email us pat@patHensley.com

Thinking of buying a home this year? visit us at http://raleighcaryhomesales.com/home-page.asp and let us be your guide to a smooth and successful purchase. Pat 919-280-4567

6 Inexpensive things to do right now to add value to your home and protect your wallet...

2011-02-03T09:15:00.001-05:00

In this economy, you may be tempted to delay or even skip minor home maintenance repairs, cleaning jobs and inspections in your home. But don't be penny-wise and dollar-foolish. That $200 or $300 you save today could result in expenditures of $3,000 or even tens of thousands next month or next year if hidden problems in your home go unnoticed and become worse.
Consider coughing up a little dough to take care of these small jobs before they morph into gigantic, expensive jobs later.
1. Annual HVAC inspection
Cost: $200-$300.
How often: At least once a year.
When: Spring or fall. Heating, ventilation and air conditioning, or HVAC, companies aren't as busy, and you're not in dire need of heat or air conditioning.
What an inspection might find:
The furnace blower is not working properly. Cost to repair or replace: $100-$150. Possible consequence of letting it go: a broken heat exchanger. Potential savings down the road: $300-$1,000 to replace the heat exchanger or $750-$3,500, depending on the energy efficiency, to replace indoor or outdoor furnace components.
The reversing switch in the heat pump is broken. Cost to repair or replace: $100-$300. Letting it go results in no heat from the heat pump, and the system switches to a more expensive auxiliary heat. Potential savings: lower heating bills.
Bottom line: "Things that happen often happen at the worst possible time in the worse possible conditions and you're looking at the maximum rate," says Terry Townsend of Townsend Engineering in Chattanooga, Tenn., and former president of the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers. Remember, continual maintenance prolongs the life of the equipment. "You're sitting there with an investment of thousands in your HVAC system and you're investing a few hundred dollars in maintenance."

2. Chimney Inspection
Cost: $65 for an inspection; $150 for inspection and cleaning, including removal of creosote buildup, which may lead to a chimney fire.
How often: Once a year.
When: Before your first fire in winter.
What an inspection might find:
There's no chimney cap. Cost to add: $150. If you let it go, rain water can get into your chimney, damage the chimney liner and damper, and even saturate mortar joints -- causing mold. Potential savings: $2,000-$4,000 to replace the chimney liner.
Other problems may include: A cracked chimney crown, which can be repaired for $300-$500; chimney flashing that needs caulking, which can be done for $80-$100; and waterproofing the exterior brick, $350-$600. All these fixes will prevent rainwater from getting in and mold from forming.
Bottom line: "A simple chimney cleaning can prevent chimney fires and damage to your entire house," says Ray Gessner, a licensed professional engineer and owner of A Step in Time Chimney Sweeps, with offices in the eastern U.S. "Water is the No. 1 problem with chimneys. With water damage, you might need to have your whole chimney rebuilt."

3. Termite Inspection
Cost: $75-$200 for an inspection; $200-$300 for a termite protection contract for qualifying homes with no current evidence of termites to cover treatment and repairs for any later infestation.
How often: Once a year.
When: Any time, although termites are more active in spring and early summer.
What an inspection might find:
Subterranean termites that come from the ground or flying termites. If left untreated, these bugs damage framing, trim, drywall, furniture, carpet, copper and other soft metals. Termites cause more than $5 billion in damages a year in the U.S., says Paul Curtis, director of quality assurance for Terminix in Memphis, Tenn. The average homeowner loss for termite damage is $3,000, but losses can be as high as $30,000 or even $80,000, Curtis says. Most homeowners insurance does not cover repair of termite damage.

Bottom line: "Termites eat the wood from the inside out," Curtis says. "A typical homeowner would not be aware they are even in their home until months or years after they get in and start causing damage. A lot of people don't realize that termites don't just feed on the home. They'll eat flooring, insulation, books -- I've even seen them penetrate through swimming pool liners."

4. Power Washing and Sealing Wood Deck
Cost: $100-$300 for a 200-square-foot deck, more for a larger deck.
How often: Every one to three years, depending on the amount of traffic, moss and mold.
When: Any time in sunny weather.
Power washing gets rid of stains, algae, mold, mildew and moss. Algae and mold can make your deck slippery and dangerous, says Justin Lee of JL Power Washing in Williamsburg, Va. Sealing your deck after it is cleaned helps prevent water damage. Wood soaks up rain like a sponge, expands and then shrinks, Lee says. Sealing makes the water bead up and roll off. And let's not forget -- your deck will look nicer, too.
If you let it go, your deck will warp, nails will pop out and the deck won't last as long.
Potential savings: $4,000 to $20,000 or more to replace your deck, depending on size.
Bottom line: "A properly cleaned and sealed wood deck can last 20 to 30 years," Lee says.

5. Dryer Vent Cleaning
Cost: $120-$200.
How often: Every year.
When: A sunny day.
The purpose is to get rid of lint buildup. If your dryer is not on an exterior wall, it's likely that the vent leading outside is clogged up, says Gessner of A Step in Time Chimney Sweeps.
If you ignore it, the result could be a disastrous fire. "Once the vent gets clogged, the dryer starts overheating and it can catch on fire," Gessner says. "Dryer fires are very dangerous."
Potential savings: Your home, your furnishings, your belongings and your life.
Bottom line: "I had been airing a radio commercial talking about the importance of dryer vent cleaning for about a month when three people (in our area) died in a fire caused by a dryer vent fire," Gessner says.

6. Carpet Cleaning
Cost: About 50 cents per square foot for hot water extraction cleaning, or $500 for 1,000 square feet of cleaned carpet.
How often: Every 12 months; more often for high-traffic areas and homes with small children, pets or smokers. Manufacturers' warranties may require cleaning every 18 to 24 months. You can save money by focusing on regular cleanings for high-traffic areas and waiting up to two years for the entire carpet.
When: Any time.
If the carpet looks dirty, you've waited too long because some soil can't be removed with vacuuming. This soil will bind to your carpet and dull the texture, shortening the life of the carpet.
Your home also will be healthier with pollen, bacteria, insecticides and dirt removed, says Howard Partridge, founder and president of Clean as a Whistle, a cleaning company outside Houston.
Potential savings: Extending the life of your carpet. Replacing 1,000 square feet of medium-grade carpet, including padding and installation, costs about $3,000.
Bottom line: "One of my neighbors had to replace his carpet in less than four years," Partridge says. "And his carpet looked terrible the whole time. I've been able to keep my carpet for 12 years now."

I hope you enjoyed these tips.
I'm happy to recommend local vendors to help you with any of the above projects.

Think of buying or selling your home this year?
Give us a call. We are happy to help you get started. 919-280-4567

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Should you fix up your home before selling or sell "as is"?

2011-02-01T08:11:00.000-05:00

I'm a fan of fixing up the home to maximize your buyer appeal. People are visual and will pay more for a home that is in move right in condition.
If money for improvements is not an option, then detail clean and de-clutter your home like you would a car you are selling. We all like clean and spacious.
You can roll the cost of the needed repairs into your home's sale price, but you'll likely have to offer buyers an extra discount for the time and trouble needed to address the necessary fix-it work. Otherwise, that same buyer could simply drive down the block and buy another home with newer siding and windows, better interiors, etc., for the same cost as yours and not have to pound a nail.

You are caught in a modern day, real estate Catch-22 -- that dreaded "darned if you do and darned if you don't" scenario. Tattered homes often will not sell conventionally -- at least for a reasonable price -- in this predominantly buyer's market. Only in those rare seller's markets would you have some leverage despite your home's condition.

So you may have to bite the bullet and do the work. Unfortunately, statistics suggest you will recoup less than three-fourths of your remodeling investment when you sell. According to Remodeling magazine's 2010-2011 Remodeling Cost vs. Value report, a full window replacement in a midrange repair project returns 71.6 percent of investment in a home sale, while a siding replacement returns 72.4 percent -- percentages that are higher than most remodeling jobs, by the way. Other interior remodeling projects merit value returns of 45 percent to 73 percent, according to the survey.

While that data seem to suggest that sellers should offer buyers credits and let the buyers perform their own work, the reality is that if a home is too beat up, it may generate little interest from conventional buyers. Contractors or would-be home flippers, who will likely lowball you because they can already get cheap fixer-uppers in the vast foreclosure arena, may be your only customers. Unless they're especially handy and have loads of spare time on their hands, would-be owner occupants typically don't want to wrestle with significant repairs.

Thinking of buying or selling this year? Give us a call and let our experience take the stress out of moving.

Pat directly 919-280-4567

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2011-01-14T09:28:00.000-05:00

Five Fast and Easy House Cleaning Tips

You’ll love this if your home is on the market but I also like to have a clean and neat house, but I don't want to spend hours keeping it that way.

I have come up with some quick and easy ways to keep my house clean and tidy with a minimum of effort and time. You will find five of my strategies here.
Let me know if these suggestions help you, too.

1- Schedule your cleaning.
Eeewww, yuck, you say. I hate cleaning as it is and now you tell me to make a date to clean?
Yes, because that is the easy way to do it. If you do a thorough bathroom cleaning every Wednesday, for example, then it will get done every week and it will not be so bad.
If you leave your cleaning the bathroom chore until you can "get around to it," until it really needs it, or until you cannot stand it anymore, then you will have a much worse job on your hands, and you are far more likely to put it off the next time it needs to be done because it was so bad.
If you set up a schedule, you are more likely to remember to do the cleaning, the rooms will stay cleaner, you will feel less harrassed about it all, and your home will be a nicer place for you to relax in.

It is a good idea to break up the major cleaning chores; don't schedule everything for the same day.

If you plan to do all your cleaning on one day, say Saturday, then something is likely to come up that prevents you from taking care of it on Saturday and you will be back at square one with a dirty house and a whole week to wait until your next "cleaning day."
Instead, make Tuesday your bathroom cleaning day, Wednesday your living room cleaning day, Thursday your kitchen cleaning day, Friday your bedroom cleaning, laundry collection, and sorting day, etc. This way, if you miss the bathroom cleaning-day because of a school conference or staying late at work you can catch up the next day. It is only 5 to 30 minutes of cleaning you missed, not the whole house.

Now, when I say that Thursday is kitchen cleaning, I do not mean that you let the dishes and countertops, etc. go all the rest of the week. I am talking about the one day a week that you do a thorough job of cleaning- cleaning the stove, refrigerator, microwave, floor, etc. Naturally, if any area in your house needs cleaning or straightening during the rest of the week you would take care of it: wipe up spills, and so forth.

2- Keep cleaning products where you will need them.
Think about it next time you start to clean: how much time do you waste gathering up what you need to use? Notice how easy it is to avoid getting started when the supplies you need are not right there?
We recently moved from a small, cramped, old house into a nice, new, spacious home. That's great, except that I now have three bathrooms to keep clean, instead of one and a half.
In order to clean the easy way I have a set of the same cleaning products in each of my three bathrooms.

I bought cleaning supplies at Costco (where you can buy multiples of everything) and I stocked each of my bathrooms with a container of sanitizing wipes, a roll of paper towels, a bottle of toilet bowl cleaner, a can of air freshener, a sponge, a toilet brush, a scrub brush, etc.

Believe it or not, this makes it much easier to keep the bathroom clean. I don't spend any time running up or downstairs to get the cleaning stuff I need, or waiting till the storage bathroom is free so I can retrieve my one and only cleaning kit, then lugging it around to do each bathroom.

Make sure that you have a broom and a dustpan and whisk broom, too, on each floor where you will need them. Our home has four levels, so I try to keep one of what I will need on each floor where I will need it.

Do the same for your kitchen, living room, and bedrooms. It is so much easier to dust and polish my bedroom furniture now that I keep furniture polish and dust cloths in my bedroom.

3-Use the mini-cleaning technique.
Do spot cleaning when you are in a room. I am trying to explain this to the other members of my family, and I have actually had some success.
When you are in the bathroom already and you have just used the sink, grab a paper towel (from the roll you placed in the bathroom,) and wipe off the entire counter, especially around the sink, when you are through washing up. Quick and easy, but it makes a big difference.
A second paper towel, dampened just with clear water, can be used on your mirror once a day to keep it shining clean and free of those toothpaste and soap spatters. You do not need window cleaner; just clean water will do the job.
You can do the same sort of thing in any room. When you are done with a meal clear everything off the table immediately and wipe it off or dust and polish it. This takes a very brief time, but has a great effect. Your room looks so much better, the table is ready and available for use, and you will find that you feel better, too.
4- Taking immediate action leads to the best results.
Make your bed first thing when you get up. This is a great way to start the day. Coming out of the shower into a bedroom with a neatly made bed will give you a good feeling, like you are organized and capable.

I know it sounds silly, but it really works. Don't knock it until you have tried it. Try this for one week: make your bed first thing when you get up every day, and see what a difference it makes in how you view yourself.
As I mentioned above, clear the table right after a meal. Put your dishes in the dishwasher immediately as you clear off the table.
It takes more steps and more work to clear dishes off the table, then stack the dirty stuff all over the kitchen, and then to make another trip to scrape the plates and finally put them in the dishwasher later.
Make it one step: take the dishes from the table past the garbage can for scraping, then into the empty dishwasher, add soap and get it running right away.
Get those pots and pans washed immediately, too. It really doesn't help to let them sit around. (I have tried this, and I found that they were still in need of washing when I looked in on them the next morning.)

Things tend to be easier to clean when they are cleaned immediately. Stains will set into fabric, carpet, whatever, when they are left there, and everybody knows what damage spilled liquid can do when it is left on most any surface. It is much easier to avoid leaving glasses of water sitting around, than to clean up the mess that results from a spill.
We have cats, and dogs, and kids, so we have learned the hard way not to leave anything liquid in an open container (like a glass) when it is unattended. Our cats sometimes find it more amusing to drink water after they knock the glass of water over on its side.
5- Less is more.
This may be the most important point: The less you have in any given space, the easier it is to keep your belongings and your surroundings clean, neat, and attractive. The more we try to jam into a room the harder it becomes to keep those items and the room clean.

From a purely practical standpoint it is more difficult to vacuum when you cannot fit the vacuum head between the pieces of furniture or maneuver it easily around items of furniture and lamps.

It is more difficult to dust and polish wood furniture when it is covered with stuff. The same is true for your dresser, your bathroom counter, your kitchen, your dining table, your desk, etc.

It is even difficult to see the items you own when there are too many of them in one room. A single beautiful item displayed in a medium space can have much more impact than 20 beautiful things jammed into that same space.

Reducing the amount of things cluttering up your home can bring more benefits than just making your house look better. You will find that it is easier to keep it clean and beautiful, and it may actually make you feel more serene and calm when the doorbell rigns.

Thinking of buying a home this year?
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6 Things Buyers want in a home in 2011...

2011-01-11T10:15:00.000-05:00

Selling your home in 2011? Here are inexpensive things you can do right now to attact buyers to your home:

1. A Beautiful Entrance. "I always tell sellers to put a fresh coat of paint on the front door.” If you don't have an entrance at all, make one. A lot of my buyers have mentioned that they don't like to just go through the front door into the living room. This problem, more common in condos and apartments, is solved by cleverly placing furniture to create more of an entryway. A console table or small chest of drawers with something over it creates a welcoming entry.

2. Fixtures are the jewelry of the house. Only the extremely detail-oriented among us will stop to inspect doorknobs, faucets and cabinet knobs, but designers and real estate agents argue that we'll prefer the look of a place that has coordinated fixtures that are a cut above standard developer grade. Replacing knobs and drawer pulls "is the quickest way to make over a bathroom or kitchen. When it comes to faucets, for $60 or $70 dollars you can buy something infinitely better than what you likely already have.

3. Gorgeous Baths with marble counters, whirlpool baths and steam showers up the attractiveness of any bathroom. But if you don't have these luxury items, it may be more practical to address the unattractive aspects of your existing bath. "Rip out that big sheet mirror and those globe lights that look like you're in a theater dressing room.” Replace them with an elegant framed mirror (don't be afraid to look outside the bathroom section). Softer lighting scheme is also more flattering to the face and will pay off!

4. Appliances. Why do buyers go bananas for stainless-steel appliances? It's the power of suggestion. "A kitchen with stainless appliances looks like a commercial kitchen. It makes people think that they're great cooks but because the finish shows fingerprints, it's not for everyone.
As far as other alternatives go, the designers agree that in general, black fixtures can look dated, while white is okay for a country kitchen. Some people are making appliances blend in beautifully by ordering front panels to match their cabinetry.

5. Light Up your rooms. Floor lamps just don't cut it these days. If your home doesn't get a lot of natural light, consider installing recessed lighting or new sconces, or both, so the buyer won't struggle to figure out how to brighten up the space.

Lighting is probably the most overlooked, yet the most important aspect of interior decoration. Everyone needs three types - task, ambient and decorative lighting - which allow you to change the mood of the room."

When it comes to recessed lighting, know that the smaller the fixture, the more updated it is. We used to have six-inch apertures, now we have four-inch openings. And using halogen bulbs gives a cleaner, more modern look.

6. Green grass is a big attraction. Are the homebuyers in your area families with young children? If so, they'll be drawn to spaces with a flat, open lawn.

If you thinking of putting in a concrete patio or rock garden? Don't bother if you're putting your home on the market. A flat yard is a real plus. Spend some money and put in the grass. It's a good seller.
I hope you enjoyed these home seller tips.
Contact us directly with your home selling challenges and we will give you our suggestions. Pat 919-280-4567
Buying or selling a home this year? Check out our updated and revised website at http://raleighcaryhomesales.com/home-page.asp
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5 Ways to sell your home faster...

2011-01-10T09:52:00.000-05:00

Even if you have sold a home before, it’s often difficult to evaluate your own home. That’s where I can help you.

1. Lighten up. Some people like to live in dark houses. Leave the shades up and the drapes opened. Homes show much better with light.

2. Size up the competition. Walk through model homes to see what professionally staged homes look like. You can get a variety of great ideas to prepare your home for sale.

3. Define the space. Creatively define each space to highlight its use. Create a mudroom that is neat and orderly, a home office workspace, or a kids after school room with chalk boards and desks.

4. Add simple curb appeal. Thoroughly clear all little branches, rake the leaves, and trim the bushes. Every landscaping detail proves that you care, and this translates to buyer appeal!

5. Give it a power wash. I bought a power washer three years ago, and what a great investment. I always offer it to my clients. You’d be surprised how much better a house looks after a good bath—especially the garage doors.

Thinking about a new home this year?
Stop by our new website to see the lastest homes for sale and learn other great buying and selling tips.
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I look forward to hearing from you soon. Pat 919-280-4567

Lighten up. Some people like to live in dark houses. Leave the shades up and the drapes opened. Homes show so much better with light. −Teresa Boardman, Saint Paul Home Realty, St. Paul, Minn.

Size up the competition. Walk through model homes in your area to see what professionally staged homes look like. You can get a variety of great ideas to prepare your home for sale. −Randy Schulenburg, Mortgage 1st Realty Inc., Elgin, Ill.

Define the space. Creatively define each space to highlight its use. Create a mudroom that is neat and orderly, a home office workspace, or a kids afterschool room with chalk boards and desks. −Elizabeth Lord, Carolina Farms & Estates, York, S.C.

Add simple curb appeal. Thoroughly clear all little branches, rake the leaves, and trim the bushes. Every landscaping detail proves that you care, and this translates to buyer appeal! −Beverly Carlson, Carlson Properties, Abilene, Texas

Give it a power wash. I bought a power washer three years ago, and what a great investment. I always offer it to my clients. You’d be surprised how much better a house looks after a good bath—especially the garage doors. −Jim Cheney, Saint Francis Property, Santa Rosa, Calif.

Even if they’ve sold before, it’s often difficult for them to evaluate their own home. That’s where you can help.

Lighten up. Some people like to live in dark houses. Leave the shades up and the drapes opened. Homes show so much better with light. −Teresa Boardman, Saint Paul Home Realty, St. Paul, Minn.

Size up the competition. Walk through model homes in your area to see what professionally staged homes look like. You can get a variety of great ideas to prepare your home for sale. −Randy Schulenburg, Mortgage 1st Realty Inc., Elgin, Ill.

Define the space. Creatively define each space to highlight its use. Create a mudroom that is neat and orderly, a home office workspace, or a kids afterschool room with chalk boards and desks. −Elizabeth Lord, Carolina Farms & Estates, York, S.C.

Add simple curb appeal. Thoroughly clear all little branches, rake the leaves, and trim the bushes. Every landscaping detail proves that you care, and this translates to buyer appeal! −Beverly Carlson, Carlson Properties, Abilene, Texas

Give it a power wash. I bought a power washer three years ago, and what a great investment. I always offer it to my clients. You’d be surprised how much better a house looks after a good bath—especially the garage doors. −Jim Cheney, Saint Francis Property, Santa Rosa, Calif.

Cary NC for 2011..One of the Top 10 Best Places to live...

2011-01-07T09:42:00.000-05:00

Cary NC for 2011 ... One of the Top 10 Best Places to live in the country...
Rounding out this year’s list is Cary, North Carolina, a suburb of Raleigh, where households grew at 3.25% in 2010 to end the decade at 90,600. In 2010, Cary placed first in net new households with an increase of 2,850. The area had the second-highest average household income at $101,804 and the third-highest net worth at $376,996. A whopping 27.5% of all households make $100K or more per year, and 10% of all households have a net worth of $1 million or more.

The average length of residence was second highest at 6.6 years. Asian households grew 250% over the decade, with India and China representing 78% of Asian households. The largest PersonicX® lifestage cluster was “Established Elite” at 5.8% of all households. These households are notable for their absence of children and enormous disposable income. The Cary area boasts almost 9,000 millionaires.

Rounding out this year’s list is Cary, North Carolina, a suburb of Raleigh, where households grew at 3.25% in 2010 to end the decade at 90,600. In 2010, Cary placed first in net new households with an increase of 2,850. The area had the second-highest average household income at $101,804 and the third-highest net worth at $376,996. A whopping 27.5% of all households make $100K or more per year, and 10% of all households have a net worth of $1 million or more.
The average length of residence was second highest at 6.6 years. Asian households grew 250% over the decade, with India and China representing 78% of Asian households. The largest PersonicX® lifestage cluster was “Established Elite” at 5.8% of all households. These households are notable for their absence of children and enormous disposable income. The Cary area boasts almost 9,000 millionaires.

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About The Gadberry Group
The Gadberry Group provides location-based services and information data products for clients who demand the most current, accurate, and precise household and population data for their site location analysis. MicroBuild®, Gadberry's patent-pending product, is unique because only MicroBuild uses consumer data at the rooftop level to deliver quarterly household and population counts beginning at the Census block level. For more information about Gadberry Group, visit www.gadberry.net

Should you buy a home or rent a home in Raleigh NC?

2011-01-02T10:45:00.004-05:00

Why is buying better than renting?
Here are a two things to consider that will help you make this decision:
Foreced Savings
You may make nothing at all beyond inflation over time on a home, but the part of your mortgage payment that goes toward principal is a form of saving.
A mortgage is still a form of long-term forced savings. This is more important than ever, since fewer people have access to generous pensions than they did during the last big housing slump. A 401(k) or similar plan is no bargain, either, with its erratic returns and employer matches that come and go as the economic winds shift. Social Security is also likely to be less generous, and Medicare will probably cost more.
Besides, owning a home isn't just about what shows up on a net worth statement — something that bears repeating. It's more about stablity and peace of mind knowing this is your home and you are in control.

Difficult Landlords A bank can kick you out only if you don't pay your mortgage. But landlords can drive you away in any number of ways and will raise your payments yearly.
Living free of a landlord's whim to having access to a good school district or retirement community, haven't changed and probably never will.

The Triangle area is slowly recovering both in job growth and the Triangle Area boasts the lowest foreclosure rates in the country. The most desirable areas of Wake County see very little price slashing. If you choose to rent, you choices will be limited to what is available when you need to move, and there may not be many family-size rentals in good school districts.
It‘s possible, as a homeowner, to make very little money but still buy plenty of happiness along the way.

Thinking of buying a home this year? Let us take the stress out of the home buying process. We won’t recommend a home we would not buy for ourselves. After all, we want your repeat business.

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2011 Home Savings tips...

2010-12-30T09:18:00.003-05:00

Eleven easy ways to get a leaner, greener home in 2011
consumer reports by Gian Trotta
This might not be the year you shed those extra pounds or give up smoking, but these much easier behavior modifications and DIY projects will trim your home's operating costs and reduce its harmful emissions:
1. Stop pre-rinsing dishes. How can you not like a resolution that requires less work? Our dishwasher tests show it's an unnecessary effort, and you'll save the cost of heating and consuming using up to 6,500 gallons of water per year.

2. Wash clothes in cold water. This will save $60 a year—and our latest tests of laundry detergents found cold-water formulations that perform well.
3. Make homemade cleaners. Experiment with these low-cost, homemade cleaners instead of the more expensive all-purpose cleaners we just tested.

4. Install CFL and LED lights. Both types have been coming down in price and offering improved performance. LEDs use 84 percent less energy than a comparable incandescent and 30 percent less than a comparable CFL; they can also last as long as 22 years. (See the video above for more on our LED tests.)

5. Defang energy vampires. Two watt meters models we found to be effective energy-savers made our list of top gifts for energy geeks—along with thermal leak detectors, energy-saving power strips, and low-cost LED lights.

6. Install a programmable thermostat. Lowering temperature settings by five to 10 degrees at night and when you're not home can trim up to 20 percent off your heating bill. A good-performing programmable thermostat can automate your savings.

7. Help your refrigerator breathe. Remember the last time you vacuumed out your refrigerator's condenser coils? If not, follow these step-by-step instructions to maintain efficiency and avoid costly breakdowns.

8. Flush your water heater. It's easy (just a garden hose is required) to do and will remove sediment that reduces efficiency and shortens a water heater's life.

9. Insulate your hot-water pipes. It's another easy project that just requires some slip-on foam insulation, a cutting tool and some electrical tape.
10. Caulk leaky doors and windows. The Home Star (aka cash for caulkers) program is stalled in the Senate, but you can use our step-by-step instructions to find and fix energy-wasting openings in the meantime.

11. Schedule an energy audit. Many states and local utilities are offering free or low-cost home energy audits that will pinpoint the fixes that will save the most money at the lowest cost.

Get the lastest list of homes for sale sent directly to your inbox with your criteria, complete with photos and mapping. It's FREE from the Pat Hensley Group at Remax United.
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Happy New Year!

IRS Audit Red Flags...

2010-12-27T09:19:00.001-05:00

IRS Audit Red Flags: The Dirty Dozen
It's that time of year again. Time to file your taxes.
Here are twelve hot spots on your return that can raise the chances of scrutiny by the IRS.
By Joy Taylor
December 2010
Ever wonder why some tax returns are audited by the IRS while most are ignored? Well, there’s a whole host of reasons to this age-old question. The IRS audits only about 1% of all individual tax returns annually. The agency doesn’t have enough personnel and resources to examine each and every tax return filed during a year. So the odds are pretty low that your return will be picked for an audit. And of course, the only reason filers should worry about an audit is if they are cheating on their taxes.

However, the chances of you being audited or otherwise hearing from the IRS can increase depending upon various factors, including whether you omitted income, the types of deductions or losses claimed, certain credits taken, foreign asset holdings and math errors, just to name a few. Although there’s no sure way to avoid an IRS audit, you should be aware of red flags that could increase your chance of drawing some unwanted attention from the IRS. Here are the 12 most important ones:

1. Failure to report all taxable income.
The IRS receives copies of all 1099s and W-2s that you receive during a year, so make sure that you report all required income on your tax return. the IRS computers are pretty good at matching these forms received with the income shown on your return. A mismatch sends up a red flag and causes IRS computers to spit out a bill. If you receive a 1099 for income that isn’t yours or the income listed is incorrect, get the issuer to file a corrected form with the IRS.
2. Returns claiming the home-buyer credit.
First-time homebuyers and longtime homeowners who claimed the homebuyer credit should be prepared for IRS scrutiny. Make sure you submit proper documentation when taking this credit. First-time homebuyers have to attach a copy of their settlement statement to the return, and longtime homeowners should also attach documents showing prior ownership of a home, including records of property tax and insurance coverage. All claims for this credit are being screened. As of May 2010, more than 260,000 returns had been selected for correspondence audits (examinations done by mail rather than face-to-face) because filers did not attach the necessary documents to their tax returns. And those numbers will continue to grow.

Also, the IRS has ways of policing the recapture of the homebuyer credit. Generally, the credit is required to be recaptured if the home is sold within three years for homes brought in 2009 or 2010 and within 15 years for homes bought before 2009. The IRS is checking public real estate databases for sales of homes for which the credit was taken.
3. Claiming large charitable deductions.
This comes up again and again because the IRS has found abuse on audit, especially with those taking larger deductions. We all know that charitable contributions are a great write-off and help you to feel all warm and fuzzy inside. However, if your charitable deductions are disproportionately large compared to your income, it raises a red flag. That’s because the IRS can tell what the average charitable donation is for a person in your tax bracket. Also, if you don’t get an appraisal for donations of valuable property or if you fail to file Form 8283 for donations over $500, the chances of audit increase. Be sure you keep all your supporting documents, including receipts for cash and property contributions made during the year, and abide by the documentation rules. And attach Form 8283 if required.
4. Home office deduction.
The IRS is always very interested in this deduction, primarily because it has a pretty high adjustment rate on audit. This is because history has shown that many people who claim a home office don’t meet all the requirements for properly taking the deduction, and others may overstate the benefit. If you qualify, you can deduct a percentage of your rent, real estate taxes, utilities, phone bills, insurance, and other costs that are properly allocated to the home office. That’s a great deal. However, in order to take this write-off, the space must be used exclusively and on a regular basis as your principal place of business. That makes it difficult to claim a guest bedroom or children’s playroom as a home office, even if you also use the space to conduct your work. Exclusive use means a specific area of the home is used only for trade or business, not also where the family watches TV at night. Don’t be afraid to take the home-office deduction if you’re otherwise entitled to it. Risk of audit should not keep you from taking legitimate deductions. If you have it and can prove it, then use it.
5. Business meals, travel and entertainment.
Schedule C is a treasure trove of tax deductions for self-employeds. But it’s also a gold mine for IRS agents, who know from past experience that self-employeds tend to claim excessive deductions. Most under-reporting of income and overstating of deductions are done by those who are self-employed. And the IRS looks at both higher-grossing sole proprietorships as well as smaller ones.

Big deductions for meals, travel and entertainment are always ripe for audit. A large write-off here will set off alarm bells, especially if the amount seems too large for the business. Agents know that many filers slip in personal meals here or fail to satisfy the strict substantiation rules for these expenses. To qualify for meals or entertainment deductions, you must keep detailed records generally documenting the following for each expense: amount, place, persons attending, business purpose and nature of discussion or meeting. Also, receipts are required for expenditures over $75 or any expense for lodging while traveling away from home. Without proper documentation, your deduction is toast.
6. Claiming 100% business use of vehicle

. Another area that is ripe for IRS review is use of a business vehicle. When you depreciate a car, you have to list on Form 4562 what percentage of its use during the year was for business. Claiming 100% business use for an automobile on Schedule C is red meat for IRS agents. They know that it’s extremely rare that an individual actually uses a vehicle 100% of the time for business, especially if no other vehicle is available for personal use. IRS agents are trained to focus on this issue and will closely scrutinize your records. Make sure you keep very detailed mileage logs and precise calendar entries for the purpose of every road trip. Sloppy recordkeeping makes it easy for the revenue agent to disallow your deduction. As a reminder, even if you use the IRS’ standard mileage rate to deduct your business vehicle costs, ensure that you are not also claiming actual expenses for maintenance, insurance and other out-of-pocket costs. The IRS has found filer noncompliance in this area as well and will look for this.
7. Claiming a loss for a hobby activity.

Your chances of “winning” the audit lottery increase if you have wage income and file a Schedule C with large losses. And, if your Schedule C loss-generating activity sounds like a hobby…horse breeding, car racing, and such…the IRS pays even more attention. It’s issued guidelines to its agents on how to sniff out those who improperly deduct hobby losses. Large Schedule C losses are audit bait, but reporting losses from activities in which it looks like you might be having a good time is just asking for IRS scrutiny.

Tax laws don’t allow you to deduct hobby losses on Schedule C; however, you do have to report any income earned from your hobbies. In order to claim a hobby loss, your activity must be entered into and conducted with the reasonable expectation of making a profit. If your activity generates profit three out of every five years (or two out of seven years for horse breeding), the law presumes you’re in business to make a profit, unless the IRS establishes to the contrary. If audited, the IRS is going to make you prove you have a legitimate business and not a hobby. So, make sure you run your activity in a business-like manner and can provide supporting documents for all expenses.
8. Cash businesses.

Small business owners, especially those in cash-intensive businesses…taxi drivers, car washes, bars, hair salons, restaurants and the like…are an easy target for IRS auditors. The agency is well aware that those who primarily receive cash in their business are less likely to accurately report all of their taxable income. the IRS wants to narrow the tax gap, and history has shown that cash-based businesses are a good source of audit adjustments. It has a new guide for agents to use when auditing cash intensive businesses, telling how to interview owners and noting various indicators of unreported income.
9. Failure to report a foreign bank account.
The IRS is intensely interested in people with offshore accounts, especially those in tax havens. U.S. tax authorities have had some recent success in trying to get foreign banks (such as UBS in Switzerland) to disclose information on U.S. account holders. Also, the IRS had a voluntary compliance program where people came in and reported their foreign bank accounts and foreign assets in exchange for lesser penalties than they would have otherwise been subject to. The IRS has learned a lot from these probes.

Failure to report a foreign bank account can lead to severe penalties, and the IRS has made this issue a top priority. Make sure that if you have any such accounts, you properly report them when you file your return. Keep in mind, though, that if you have never previously reported the foreign bank account on your return, and you decide to do so for the first time in 2010, that might also look suspicious to the IRS.
10. Engaging in currency transactions.
The IRS gets many reports of cash transactions in excess of $10,000 involving banks, casinos, car dealers and other businesses, plus suspicious activity reports from banks and disclosures of foreign accounts. A recent report by Treasury inspectors concluded that these currency transaction reports are a valuable source of audit leads for sniffing out unreported income. The IRS agrees and it will make greater use of these forms in its audit process. So if you are a person who makes large cash purchases or deposits, be prepared for IRS scrutiny. Also, beware that banks and other institutions file reports on suspicious activities that appear to avoid the currency transaction rules (such as persons depositing $9,500 cash one day and an additional $9,500 cash two days later).
11. Math errors.

One of the biggest reasons that people receive a letter from the IRS is because of mathematical mistakes they make on their tax returns. If you make an error in your favor, you are going to hear from the tax man, and there is a greater risk of the IRS pulling the whole return for audit. So take time to ensure all your calculations are correct. Even though math errors may not lead to a full-blown audit, it’s always best to remain under the radar of IRS computers.
12. Taking higher-than-average deductions.

If deductions on your return are disproportionately large compared to your income, the IRS audit formulas take this into account when selecting returns for examination. Screeners then pull the most questionable returns for review. But if you’ve got the proper documentation for your deduction, don’t be scared to claim it. There’s no reason to ever pay the IRS more tax than you actually owe.

I hope you find this helpful.
Lookiing for a new home in Raleigh this year?
View all homes for sale at http://www.raleighcaryhomesales.com/ 919-280-4567
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Happy New Year from the Pat Hensley Group at ReMax United.

The Value of a Smile...

2010-12-21T11:16:00.000-05:00

The Value of a Smile... author, unknown author

-A smile costs nothing, but creates much.
-It enriches those who receive, without impoverishing those who give.
-It happens in a flash and the memory of it sometimes lasts forever.
-None are so rich they can get along without it.
-It is rest to the weary, daylight to the discouraged, sunshine to the sad, and Nature's best antidote for trouble.
-Yet it cannot be bought, begged, borrowed, or stolen, for it is something that is no good to anybody till it is given away.
-For nobody needs a smile so much as those who have none left to give!

Happy 2011!
May it bring you many smiles.

Pat Hensley
ReMax United
http://www.raleighcaryhomesales.com/
919-280-4567
Get to know us on Facebook www.4Cary.com

How to use Twitter to Save Money and score discounts...

2010-12-19T09:06:00.001-05:00

By Angela Spivey • Bankrate.com

The "microblogging" site Twitter isn't just for complaining about work or broadcasting what you ate for lunch. In these tight times, some consumers find that a little tweeting is worth big savings.

For the uninitiated, Twitter is a social media application that allows you to quickly share information with your followers, or subscribers, via 140-character messages known as "tweets."
Many large corporations use Twitter to generate buzz and to develop relationships with customers. Hertz, Marriott and Carnival Cruise Lines all have Twitter accounts.
The upshot: You can connect directly to businesses that offer products or services you want. "I don't know of any site other than Twitter that gives you person-to-person interaction with brands you like," says Jenn Deering Davis, chief of community experience at Appozite, which runs CheapTweet, a Web site that aggregates discounts found on Twitter.
Because the information broadcast on Twitter is so public, companies are likely to pay attention when you tweet about them. That can enable you to reach a company representative with the ability to give you a discount.
Twitter traffic cops
"Most companies with a strong presence on Twitter are monitoring any mention of them on Twitter and will respond publicly," says Lani Rosales, co-founder and president of New Media Lab, a Texas marketing and advertising firm that specializes in social media. "Typically, corporations employ a dedicated social median who spends a great deal of time on Twitter and can be thought of as a traffic cop with access to the decision makers within the company."
Brooke Gorman of Detroit found that to be the case when she tweeted asking for a discount code for a stay at the Amway Grand Plaza Hotel in Grand Rapids, Mich. In response, the hotel's marketing director contacted Gorman. "We worked out a good nightly rate," she says.
Twitter-specific deals
Many firms offer Twitter-specific coupons or discounts, Rosales says. A prime example is Dell Outlet, which sells refurbished Dell computers and tweets coupon codes and other offers. Meryl Evans of Plano, Texas, saved $100 and got free shipping on a refurbished laptop when she sent a direct message to DellOutlet on Twitter, asking for recommendations for a laptop that met her requirements. "They recommended the Studio 1537, and that's what I bought -- a red one too! I don't spend extra on stuff like color, but the deal paid off so I could treat myself," she says.
Twitter's ability to tap into the knowledge of many people at once can also help you save. If you follow the right people, they will tell you about discount codes or promotions that could take hours of Web searching to find on your own.
For instance, Kim Gorode, of Brooklyn, N.Y., was unsure how to get the best deal for a rental car on Priceline.com, so she tweeted some questions. A representative from online travel community BidLessTravel gave her bidding advice and also sent her a coupon to save 15 percent at Budget Rent A Car. Priceline didn't have any economy cars available, so she used the coupon. "I saved about $30, which was a tank of gas, so I consider that a pretty good deal," Gorode says.
Follow these tips to tweet to your pocketbook's best advantage:
Target your tweet. If a company is following you on Twitter, you can send a private direct message, as Evans did with Dell Outlet. If the company isn't one of your followers, you can address a public tweet to the company. To do so, use the @ symbol at the beginning of your tweet. For instance, if you want to finagle a deal with Marriott, begin it with "@MarriottIntl." Or, if you're polling your followers about deals, ensure that your tweet shows up in search results by using the # symbol. For instance, if you're looking for coupons from Hertz, end your tweet with #Hertz.
Be flexible. Even if you can't connect to your first-choice company, a tweet may still get you a good deal elsewhere. This past June, for instance, Gorman wanted to stay at the Gaylord Opryland Hotel for a weekend trip to Nashville, Tenn., but the hotel was out of her price range, and she had no luck when she tweeted asking if anyone had a discount code. "But instead I was contacted by a boutique hotel that offered me a rate $30 cheaper a night than the Internet rate," Gorman says.
Cast your net wide. Following your favorite brands is a good start, but you'll have more discounts at your fingertips if you also follow people whose passion is saving money. "There are a lot of bloggers who search for coupons and deals, and blog and tweet about them every day," Davis says. Examples include couponjunction and coupongeek. Follow them on Twitter at www.twitter.com/couponjunction and www.twitter.com/coupongeek. You can also follow services that tweet information about discount offers. CheapTweet collects deals broadcast on Twitter by retailers and consumers, then posts them on its Web site. Deals that are rated highly by users as well as those mentioned most often on Twitter make it to the top of the list. Follow them on Twitter: www.twitter.com/cheaptweet. RetailMeNot.com and Rollback.com post coupon codes you can use in online shopping, and both sites tweet about some of the codes. To follow: www.twitter.com/retailmenot and www.twitter.com/rollback

Looking for that perfect home in 2011?
Visit us on-line at http://www.raleighcaryhomesales.com/ for
Free Home Search and complete Home Buying and Selling Guide

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Wishing you the best in 2011. Pat Hensley

Home Inspection Nightmares

2010-12-15T19:46:00.001-05:00

Just incase you thought getting a home inspection was a waste of money, read these horror stories taken from past home inspections.
You bet these buyers were glad they took a closer look.
Home Inspection Nightmares This Old House

Get home buying and selling tips from Remax United and the Pat Hensley Group at http://www.ralegihcaryhomesales.com/

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View all homes for sale in the Raleigh and Cary areas at http://www.pathenlsey.com/

How to Use Bug Bombs to Kill Roaches | eHow.com

2010-12-15T10:36:00.000-05:00

If you have used pest control companies to control roaches and other creepy crawly critters with poor results, this article offers some promising results.
Be sure to follow the instructions carefully and make sure your pets are not home if you use this method. Pat

How to Use Bug Bombs to Kill Roaches eHow.com

Pat Hensley
Remax United
www.RaleighCaryHomeSales.com
Visit us on Facebook www.4Cary.com

What you need to know about 2010 Tax Credits...

2010-12-15T09:35:00.000-05:00

Tax credits, rebates and discounts explained in brief below.

-A $1,500 federal tax credit for energy-efficiency upgrades, enacted as part of the federal stimulus package, is about to expire after two years.
The federal tax credit is capped at $1,500.
-Homeowners were able to take it in two installments - on their 2009 and 2010 tax returns.
-Homeowners typically combine the federal incentive with local rebates and discounts for greater savings. For example, in North Carolina conservation incentives are offered by natural gas utilities, electric utilities, rural cooperatives and municipal power agencies.
-Additionally, the N.C. State Energy Office paid out $10 million in conservation incentives this year, but the money has all been claimed and the agency is putting people on a waiting list for rebates that homeowners have signed up for but may end up not using.
-Qualifying items include heat pumps, central air conditioners, water heaters, furnaces, storm windows and storm doors. Items that qualify for the federal incentive typically qualify for state and local incentives as well.
-For a complete listing of what qualifies, go to www.energystar.gov/taxcredits. or call Pat 919-280-4567

Happy Holidays from all of us at Remax United and the Pat Hensley Group.
Join us on Facebook http://www.4cary.com/

Hiring outlook in Raleigh-Cary 'steady,' survey finds :: Editor’s Blog at Local Tech Wire

2010-12-11T09:14:00.000-05:00

Hiring outlook in Raleigh-Cary 'steady,' survey finds :: Editor’s Blog at Local Tech Wire

Fun things to do in Raleigh before Christmas...

2010-12-09T14:07:00.001-05:00

Okay, I had to add a fun picture of my baby. She is so excited about the Holidays. Can't you tell?

I get lots of emails from friends and home buyers that are new to the Cary and Raleigh area asking me what can we do for fun? or There is not much going on around here.

Well you just need to know where to look.

Here is a link to lots of fun things to do right here:

http://www.wral.com/entertainment/out_and_about/

I hope you enjoy this and get out of the house and have some fun.

Pat Hensley

Remax United

919-280-4567

Join me on Facebook at http://www.4cary.com/

Christmas Tree Fire Videos...

2010-11-21T09:42:00.000-05:00

It's that time of year again.

There are more home fires during the Christmas season and any other time.

Here is a great article with videos to show you how to keep your family safe this year.

The NIST Laboratory has valuable tips to keep you safe.

Understanding Real Estate Terms

2010-11-04T08:54:00.005-05:00

Here are the most common terms you will hear as you navigate through the home buying process. We are here to answer all your real estate questions 7 days a week.
pathensley@yahoo.com 919-469-6530 or 919-832-2102

Amortization - The gradual reduction of debt by means of periodic payments sufficient to pay principal and interest and thereby liquidate the debt.

ARM - Adjustable Rate Mortgage. A loan where the interest rate can change according to the index, caps, and margin.

Appraisal - An unbiased, professional estimate of a property’s value based on style, appearance, quality of construction, improvements, usefulness, and the comparable value of nearby properties.

Balloon Mortgage – A short term loan, usually 5 to 7 years, that features a fixed interest rate, and a final large balloon payment for balance of the mortgage.

Borrower - A person who receives funds in the form of a loan with the obligation of repaying the loan in full with interest, if applicable.

Broker - One who, for a commission or fee, brings parties together and assists in negotiating contracts between them. In real estate transactions, the broker usually brings together the buyer and the seller.

Caps - The maximum or minimum amount by which the interest rate on an adjustable rate mortgage can change over each adjustment and over its life. For example a 2/6 cap means that the ARM cannot adjust more than 2% up or down each adjustment, or 6% from the start rate during its life.

Chattel - Personal property.

Closing - The final settlement of the transfer of property. Involves the buyer’s signing the mortgage note and an exchange of title.

Closing Attorney– Assures that all documentation related to the sale of a house has been completed properly, including the title search and title insurance. The closing agent explains all closing documents to the buyer and the seller, obtains their signatures where necessary, and records the documents.

Closing Costs – Fees and other charges paid by the buyer and seller at closing.

Closing Statement – A financial disclosure giving an account of all funds received and expected at the closing, including the escrow deposits for taxes, hazard insurance, and mortgage insurance.

Co-Borrower – The person who is sharing the mortgage responsibility with the borrower.

Contingency - A clause within an Offer to Purchase or within the Contract For Sale that requires a certain condition be met before proceeding t closing.

Contract - An agreement between two or more parties to do or not to do a particular thing.

Contract for Sale – AKA: Conditional Sales Contract – A sales contract whereby the borrower has possession of the property, but seller retains ownership of the property until the buyer has fulfilled the obligations put forth in the contract.

Conventional Mortgage – A Mortgage not insured by the government, such as FHA or VA.

Counter Offer – The offer made by one party (buyer or seller) in response to an offer presented by the other.

Credit Report – A report to a prospective lender on the credit standing of a prospective borrower, used to help determine credit worthiness.

Debt-To-Income Ratio – Long-term debt expense as a percentage of monthly income.

Deed - The instrument that transfers title from the seller to the buyer.

Down Payment – The buyer’s payment to the seller at closing for a percentage of the purchase price required by the buyer’s mortgage loan.

Earnest Money – Money paid by the buyer to the seller at the time the Offer to Purchase is presented. Generally, earnest money is applied to the purchase price.

Equity - The home owner’s interest in a property. It is different between fair market value and the current amount the owner owes on the property.

Fair Market Value – The price at which a property is transferred between a willing buyer and a willing seller, each of whom has a reasonable knowledge of all pertinent facts and neither being under any compulsion to buy or sell.

FHA - Federal Housing Administration – A division of the Department of Housing and Urban Development. Its main activity is the insuring of residential mortgage loans made by private lender.

FHLMC - Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation – A private corporation created by Congress to support the secondary mortgage market. It sells participation certificates secured by pools of conventional mortgage loans, their principal and interest guaranteed by the federal government through FHLMC. Popularly known as Freddie Mac.

First Mortgage – A mortgage that is a first lien on the property pledged as security.
Read the full article...

Raleigh Townhomes for Sale...

2010-10-20T15:01:00.005-05:00

Our Team at ReMax United has developed a website devoted to Raleigh and Cary area Townhomes and Condos. Search here for all condos and townhomes for sale in the Raleigh area.

Learn how to buy a home from beginning to end.

Our team of friendly agents are here to answer your questions and make your home shopping experience fun and stress free.

Take a tour of our new Raleigh Townhome site:
http://raleighcaryhomesales.com/home.asp

Give us a call at 919-280-4567

2010 Halloween Events in Raleigh and surrounding areas...

2010-10-07T07:24:00.008-05:00

It's that time of year again. Time for hayrides and haunted houses.

Every year I'm asked "where can our family go for a fun and safe Halloween?"

I'm happy to supply you with a list courtesy of about.com and goaskmom.com
See what's happening in our area.

Have a fun and safe October.

Pat Hensley 919-469-6530 http://www.trianglenc.com/

Kitchen updates for 2010 to 2011 ...

2010-09-06T16:39:00.003-05:00

The kitchen is one of the most important rooms in your home.
It's where you gather with your family every day and where you entertain your friends.

Are you tired of the same old kitchen, but don’t want the hassle (or price tag) of an entire renovation?

Here are some easy updates that are popular now and into 2011...

View all our great ReMax United Homes for Sale

Call us today at 919-469-6530 or 919-832-2102.

We may have the home you are looking for.

Pat Hensley ReMax United

Great Places to eat outside in Raleigh...

2010-08-04T11:24:00.004-05:00

I love to eat outside.
I don't know why but I think it's a lot of fun.
I found these great places listed on WRAL's website and I thought I'd share them with you.
Have fun this summer!

Cafe Helios http://cafehelios.com/
A place where people can enjoy local art, coffee, and music, serving as a social hub for Raleigh's coffee drinkers and night owls.
•
Mellow Mushroom Pizza Bakers http://www.mellowmushroom.com/
Founded by two college roommates in 1974 serving up specialty pizzas with tons of toppings and a thick style crust.
•
Top of the Hill Restaurant & Brewery http://www.topofthehillrestaurant.com/
We strive to provide not only a great dining and social experience, but one that is intrinsically linked to Chapel Hill and Franklin Street.
•
Tyler's Restaurant & Taproom http://www.tylerstaproom.com/
Tyler's offers an ever-changing seasonal menu of American Comfort food and the most unique beer selection in the area, with up to 80 craft and import beers on draft.
• 18 Seaboard http://www.18seaboard.com/ A contemporary American restaurant in Inside the Beltline specializing in seafood and hardwood fire grilled entrees.
•
Solas Restaurant Lounge & Rooftop http://www.solasraleigh.com/
Solas is one of Glenwood South's newest hot spots for dining and night life.
•
Lucky 32 http://www.lucky32.com/
Discover American Southern Cuisine rooted in the Piedmont, served in an upscale environment. We use the highest quality ingredients (including a lot of local food) to create our interpretation of classic Southern dishes.
•
Rudino's Rooftop http://m.allmenus.com/nc/wake-county/158161-rudinos-pizza--grinders/menu /
Great pizza from scratch made dough that is baked daily on site.
•
Hibernian Pub http://www.hibernianpub.com/
A contemporary Irish pub that blends the Irish pubs of old and the vibrancy of the new modern Irish culture .

I hope you get out and enjoy an evening out soon.

As always, please let me know if I can help your family and friends with a home.
Visit me anytime http://www.trianglenc.com/ 919-280-4567

Outdoor Kitchens are hot trends ...

2010-07-21T20:20:00.012-05:00

Thinking about adding an outdoor Kitchen?

Outdoor kitchens expand your living space and allows you to enjoy the outdoors at the same time.

Here are some tips we found from HGTV and wanted to share them with you.

Read the full article

Want to see local homes for sale that already have outdoor kitchens?

Give us a call or email me for a list of homes at pat@pathensley.com

View all homes for sale at http://www.trianglenc.com/

919-280-4567

How to make your home worth more Now!

2010-07-09T15:02:00.003-05:00

Just by getting your home in top condition, you will save thousands of dollars as well as add current value to your home.

These simple and inexpensive maintenance items don't seem like they add to your home's value, but they're big money-savers in the long run.
Here are is what you should do now:
1. Caulk
If you've lived in your house a few years, you probably noticed that the caulk along your sinks, countertops and bathtub is coming loose. These gaps may not seem like a big deal, but they can wreak havoc inside your walls. Moisture causes mold and even leaks - expensive repairs that can easily be prevented. A tube of kitchen and bath caulk costs just a few dollars, and you'll avoid expensive repairs
2. Insulate
The quickest way to save money on your energy bill is to insulate, yet so many of us overlook this simple home improvement project for its benefits. Sure, your walls are insulated, but what about your basement, your attic, and your garage? Just in case the energy cost savings aren't enticing enough for you, check with the IRS - there are current credits that allow you to deduct this energy-saving expense from your taxes
3. Change Filters
It's an oft-overlooked chore, but one that keep your furnace running efficiently, and improves the air quality inside your home. Change your filters at least every three months to keep your furnace working efficiently for years to come.
4. Install a Thermostat
By programming heating and cooling, you avoid paying to keep an empty house at a comfortable temperature. Manage the heat appropriately in winter to avoid burst water pipes; in summer, draw your curtains during the day to keep the house cool. Buy a programmable thermostat and you can save big on monthly bills
5. Fix Leaks
That leaky faucet or runny toilet is draining your water bill, and in most cases it's a cheap and quick fix. Replace the washer on your faucet, and while you're at it, consider installing a faucet aerator if yours doesn't already have one. Faucet aerators reduce water flow from your faucet to save on your water bill.
6. Install Dimmers
Dimmers aren't just for romance; they can save you big bucks on your energy bill. They're cheap and easy to install, so look for rooms that could use a little reduction in harsh lighting. While you're at it, replace your light bulbs with energy-efficient ones. They're big money savers.
7. Clean Carpets
With proper care, carpets can last a long time and look great, but everyone needs to clean them sometime. You don't need to hire an expensive service either - if you can vacuum, you can clean your carpets by yourself. Rent a carpet cleaner at your local supermarket or big-box store for a modest fee. Make sure you vacuum thoroughly before cleaning, and pick a dry day so your carpet dries quickly. With regular cleaning your carpet can last a long time, saving you big bucks on new flooring.
8. Clean Siding and Windows
Windows and siding get a beating in most climates. Wash your windows and siding with a simple hose and water first, and with a cleaning solution as needed. Improvement store sells specialty products for just this kind of job. Rent a power washer for very dirty jobs. Keep an eye on cobwebs, wasp and bird nests to ensure your home's exterior stays in good shape. Touch up with paint as needed, and your house will look like new at little or no cost.
9. Fight Pests
Those spiders and ants at your foundation, that mouse nest in your crawl space? Take care of it - pests can destroy a home in a hurry. Hire an exterminator, or for small pests, combat with pesticides. Even if you don't think you have a problem, inspect every part of the interior and exterior of your home regularly to avoid small pest problems getting out hand.
10. Clean Ductwork
If your home is older, your ductwork likely has dust, grime, and other unwelcome residue inside. For big jobs, pay a professional; a simple cleaning can easily be done yourself. Simply remove the grates from your air vents, and clean the inside with your vacuum
The Bottom Line
The best way to invest in your home is to take good care of what's already there. With these simple repair jobs, you'll even save money - with just a little elbow grease as investment.

View all the great homes for sale at http://www.trianglenc.com/ or call us for some friendly advice 919-280-4567

First time home buyers in Raleigh and Cary NC....

2010-06-14T13:56:00.002-05:00

Buying for first home can be exciting and confusing.

We take you step by step through the home buying process so you know exactly how to get a home loan, how to make an offer and how to make sure you don't pay too much.

Did you know you can buy a home and get money to renovate it at the time of purchase?

Yes, there are special loan programs just for homes that need a little or a lot of work. Let us show you how....919-280-4567

www.RaleighCaryHomeSales.com

Pat Hensley

ReMax United

Macgregor West in Cary NC

2010-06-01T11:28:00.007-05:00

Macgregor West Golf Country Club Community

106 Martinique Place in Macgregor West Cary
One of Cary’s premier addresses, Macgregor West is located only a short distance away from business, great schools, recreational fun and shopping centers.
The MacGregor West Community is the best choice for anyone who wants to reside amidst beautiful scenery and enjoys upscale living.

Get the details on this exquiste home at 106 Martinique Place .

This home can be shown by appointment. Call us at 919-280-4567 to set up your personal tour today.

Pat Hensley ReMax United

919-469-6530

http://www.trianglenc.com/

Raleigh Cary housing market shows first quarter improvement in 2010

2010-05-20T09:03:00.004-05:00

According to Stacey Anfindsen, a local appraiser with Birch Appraisers, the housing market in Raleigh and Cary enjoyed a much better first quarter for 2010 then the same time period in 2009. Some of the rebound was due to the government backed housing stimulus.
Let's hope our summer sales are strong as well.
To read Stacey's full article, and fully understand what is currently happening in our Cary and Raleigh market, click here...

View all Cary and surrounding homes for sale at http://www.trianglenc.com/

Let us help you find the right home and the best financing.
We are available by appointment 7 days a week.
Call us at 919-469-6530

New Paito Homes in the Villages of Apex

2010-05-16T07:47:00.003-05:00

The Villages of Apex are located within walking distance of Historic downtown Apex.

Prices range from the low $200's to over $500,000.

The neighborhood has sidewalk lined streets, ponds and a large clubhouse with a pool.

This is a great community for the home buyer that wants upscale quality and style but little to no yard work.

We have several patio style homes with a Charleston design. There are many nice lots to choose from so you can build the home of your dreams.

Here is a home that is ready for immediate occupancy.

Priced at $424,900 with a first floor master suite and a large screen porch with a fireplace.

Open every Sunday from 2-5pm or shown by appointment anytime.

Click here for details

Come see us today and learn more about The Villages of Apex.

ReMax United 919-280-4567 www.TriangleNC.com

Thinking of renovating an older home...?

2010-04-21T06:56:00.004-05:00

Renovating an old house (defined as being built prior to 1978) gets more complicated. New federal regulations on dealing with lead-based paint take effect April 22, 2010.
The new rules only apply to people who get paid for work that disturbs old painted surfaces.
For one thing, to work on a house built before 1978, contractors will have to get certified in "lead-safe" practices mandated by the Environmental Protection Agency and then abide by them.

The coalition and several historical preservationists staged a demonstration Tuesday of what that means in practical terms.
Half the yard at 213 S. Driver St. in was marked off with yellow caution tape and a sign that said "WARNING/Lead work area/Poison/No smoking or eating." The ground and shrubs were covered with plastic sheeting, and Louis Hunter, who helps train contractors in the new law, played the role himself - meticulously cleaning a scraped front porch with a High Efficiency Particulate Air vacuum cleaner while wearing a dust mask and head-to-toe coveralls.
Read more

Feel free to call us for a free list of recommended contractors you can trust 919-469-6530.

View all our local homes for sale at http://www.trianglenc.com/.

Cary and Raleigh home prices to bottom out in 2010...

2010-04-12T10:42:00.004-05:00

Home sale prices in the Cary and Raleigh areas are expected to bottom out in the fourth quarter and return to their peak levels by the second quarter of 2013, according to new data and analysis from Fiserv Case-Shiller read more

Visit us on-line at http://www.trianglenc.com/ to see the latest homes we have for sale and learn more about the Raleigh and Cary areas.

How to get a Home Mortgage in 2010...

2010-04-06T07:52:00.002-05:00

The laws governing mortgage lending has changed since last year but if you are informed and you are buying a home you know you can easily afford, you will be just fine.

Probelms arise for mortgage borrowers when they are not prepared for what is expected from them as a borrower.

Here are a few tips to help you prepare for your meeting with the mortgage lender:

1.Review your monthly spending plan. Estimate what you can afford to pay for a home, including the mortgage, property taxes, insurance, and monthly maintenance and utilities. Make sure you save for emergencies. Make sure you will be able to afford your monthly payments for several years. Check your credit report to make sure that the information in it is accurate. A higher credit score may help you get a lower interest rate on your mortgage.

2. Shop around - compare loans from lenders and brokers. Shopping takes time and energy, but not shopping around can cost you thousands of dollars. You can get a mortgage loan from mortgage lenders or mortgage brokers. Brokers arrange mortgage loans with a lender rather than lend money directly; in other words, brokers sell you a loan from a lender. Neither lenders nor brokers have to find the best loan for you; to find the best loan, you must do the shopping.

3. Understand loan prices and fees. Many consumers accept the first loan offered and don't realize that they may be able to get a better loan. On any given day, lenders and brokers may offer different interest rates and fees to different consumers for the same loan, even when those consumers have the same loan qualifications.

Keep in mind that lenders and brokers also consider the profit they receive if you agree to the terms of a loan with higher fees, higher points, or a higher interest rate. Shopping around is your best way to avoid more expensive loans.

4. Know the risks and benefits of loan options. Mortgages have many features - some have fixed interest rates and some have adjustable rates; some have payment adjustments; on some you pay only the interest on the loan for a while and then you pay down the principal (the loan amount); some charge you a penalty for paying the loan off early; and some have a large payment due at the end of the loan (a balloon payment).

Consider all mortgage features, the APR (annual percentage rate), and the settlement costs.

Ask your lender to calculate how much your monthly payments could be a year from now, and 5 or 10 years from now.

5. Get advice from trustedsources. A mortgage loan is one of the most complex, most expensive financial commitments you will ever assume. Talk with a trusted financial planner or your real estate lawyer. Get them to review your documents before you sign them.

Source: U.S. Federal Reserve

View all homes for sale in the Raleigh/Cary areas for free at www.TriangleNC.com or call us at Teh Pat Hensley Group at ReMax United 919-280-4567.

Raleigh Cary Housing Market Update...2010

2010-03-23T18:31:00.003-05:00

According to The Triangle Business Journal, the latest census results show the Raleigh and Cary areas are growing strong. This should result in an increase in home sales in the very near future.

The Raleigh-Cary area has made the most impressive climb since 2000 in the population rankings of metropolitan areas, according to estimates released Tuesday by the U.S. Census Bureau.

Raleigh-Cary, which ranked 59th in 2000, is 49th in the new standings with a population of almost 1.13 million, up from 797,000 in 2000. Raleigh-Cary's rise of 10 places in nine years is the biggest gain registered by any metro in the current top 50.

Grat news for everyone selling a home.

View all local homes for sale at www.TriangleNC.com

2010 Raleigh Cary Job Market...

2010-02-25T12:08:00.003-05:00

Study: Raleigh-Cary ranked No. 3 in five-year jobs growth
Triangle Business Journal - by Jeff Drew and G. Scott Thomas

The number of jobs in the Raleigh-Cary area grew 10.3 percent during the five-year period that ended in December – the third best performance among the 67 U.S. metros with a population of at least 750,000.
A study of U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data conducted by G. Scott Thomas of Buffalo Business First, a sister paper of Triangle Business Journal, found that Wake, Johnston and Franklin counties added 47,600 jobs between December 2004 and December 2009, bringing the area’s total number of jobs to 508,300.
Raleigh-Cary ended up on the positive side of the jobs ledge despite losing nearly 20,000 jobs over the past two years. The area had 527,700 jobs in December 2007.

Still, Raleigh-Cary trailed only two Texas metros in percentage job growth over the five-year stretch. Austin led the way with 14.2 percent growth, to 781,000 jobs. San Antonio was second at 10.6 percent, to 847,700.
The only other North Carolina metro with at least 750,000 residents, Charlotte, also gained jobs during the five years studies. The Queen City added 24,200 jobs, or 3.1 percent – to 811,600 – despite taking a major hit on the jobs front with the financial crisis and the shedding of thousands of banking jobs.
The Durham metropolitan area was not big enough to be included in the study.
Texas posted the strongest performance, with four of the top six metros in terms of percentage gain. Houston, No. 4 in percentage gain at 8.9 percent, was No. 1 in raw gain at 206,600 jobs added over the five-year stretch.

Get local Raleigh/Cary information and search for homes at http://www.trianglenc.com/

Raleigh Cary Homes Market Condition 2010

2010-02-22T19:03:00.002-05:00

Raleigh housing market ranks first ...

The Triangle has received more affirmation that it is better-positioned than most regions to emerge quickly from this recession.

Hanley Wood Market Intelligence, a California research firm, has ranked the Raleigh-Cary market first and the Durham-Chapel Hill market sixth on its list of the healthiest markets among the top 100 U.S. housing markets.

The rankings are based on home prices, employment conditions and income growth potential. This is the second Market Health report released by Hanley Wood. The first was published last year.

Jonathan Smoke, senior vice president of products and innovation at Hanley Wood, had this to say about Raleigh:
"Based on end-2010 economic forecasts, we think Raleigh will be the healthiest of the largest 100 markets in the country. Raleigh comes out on top because of stronger employment conditions, moderate household income growth, and continued strong household formation. The market still is expected to see minor home price declines (approximately 3 percent decline expected for 2010 over 2009), which is one factor that keeps the market from being even stronger."

Courtsey of the Raleigh News & Obserber 2/23/10

Search for your Dream home Free at www.TriangleNC.com

2010 Best Home Improvements for maximum dollar return...

2010-02-09T09:32:00.002-05:00

1. Repairs get the biggest returns. Buyers appreciate Jacuzzis and Sub-Zeros but they won't tolerate a house with a leaky roof or antiquated plumbing. If a property is in need of major repairs, today's buyers won't even look at it much less make an offer.
2. Remodeling beats adding on. A formal living room plus an everyday family room is less desirable than having one multi-use common space. So rather than adding on, you're better off working with existing square footage by reconfiguring the floor plan or capturing unused basement or attic space.
3. Install energy-efficient features. EnergyStar appliances and extra wall and attic insulation will lower your energy bills every month and you can enjoy them now. Add in the federal tax credit of up to $1,500 that lasts through 2010 plus local rebates and tax incentives and the work may pay for itself in just five years. Green features are also increasingly a selling point. "Most people in the market right now are first-time homebuyers in their thirties, and they've been raised to
4. Tech infrastructure is better than high end gadgets. The problem with expensive built-in technology is that something better will come along tomorrow and make your system look old and out of date. With buyers seeking any excuse to low-ball their offers, they’re not going to reward you for an out-of-date system. Think twice about adding an expensive Home Theater. Instead, if you're opening up walls for a construction project, have cabling and Ethernet ports installed. At about $80 a room, it's a low-cost way to provide the capability for whatever technologies come along.
5. Choose colors and amenities that please the greatest number of people. Choose neutral colors and traditional electrical and plumbing fixtures. Otherwise, you won’t recoup the cost when it’s time to sell your home.
6. The new payback time for home additions and major renovations is five years.
This article was courtesy of Money Magazine.
For a more comprehensive discussion on planning your next home improvement project or just a free consultation on what you should do to get your home “market ready” call us at
919-280-4567 or visit us on-line at www.TriangleNC.com .
Have a safe week. Pat

2010 Home Buyers are buying homes with...

2010-02-05T12:41:00.003-05:00

Home Buyers today want cost-effective architecture, plans that focus on spaces and not rooms and homes that are designed to be Green or cost efficient. The key for home builders is "finding the balance between what buyers want and the price point."
For many buyers, their next house will be smaller than their current one. What we're hearing is home buyers want family togetherness -- casual living, entertaining and flexible spaces.
Here are 10 must have from Marketwatch:
1. Large Kitchens, With an Island If you're going to spend design dollars, spend them where people want them -- spend them in the kitchen. Granite countertops are a must for move-up buyers and buyers of custom homes.
2. Energy-Efficient Appliances, High-Efficiency Insulation and High Window Efficiency Among the "green" features touted in homes, these are the ones buyers value most. While large windows had been a major draw, energy concerns are giving customers pause on those, he said. The use of recycled or synthetic materials is only borderline desirable.
3. Home Office/Study People would much rather have this space rather than, say, a formal dining room. "People are feeling like they can dine out again and so the dining room has become tradable. And the home theater may also be headed for the scrap heap, a casualty of the "shift from boom to market correction.
4. Main-Floor Master Suite This is a must feature for empty-nesters and certain other buyers, and appears to be getting more popular in general, he said. That could help explain why demand for upstairs laundries is declining after several years of popularity gains.
5. Outdoor Living Room The popularity of outdoor spaces continues to grow.. And the idea of an outdoor room is even more popular than an outdoor cooking area, meaning people are willing to spend more time outside.
6. Ceiling Fans …still popular
7. Master Suite Soaker Tubs Whirlpools are still desirable for many home buyers but are not in the “must have” category. Oversize showers with seating areas are also moving up in popularity.
8. Stone and Brick Exteriors Fiber cement and vinyl don't make the cut.
9. Community Landscaping, With Walking Paths and Playgrounds Forget about golf courses, swimming pools and clubhouses. Buyers in large planned developments prefer hiking among lush greenery.
10. Two-Car Garages In all price points; three-car garages, in which the third bay can be used for additional storage and not automobiles, is desirable in the move-up and custom categories.

Let us show you around our town. We have homes with all the lastest features you desire.

visit us on-line at http://www.trianglenc.com/ or call at 919-469-6530

Mortgage lenders can pursue homeowners even after foreclosure

2010-02-03T14:16:00.005-05:00

Like many who are struggling in this weak economy, you may feel it makes sense to give your home back to your bank just to get relief from high payments. Why fight to sell your home when there is too little equity to pay off your mortgage?

In North Carolina, the law allows banks to file a deficiency judgement for the difference in what you owe on your mortgage and what the bank was able to sell your home for.

Just because you negotiated a short sale or gave the deed back to your bank, don't assume you won't owe the bank the shortfall. Borrowers may not be aware that they have to ask for a release. So, be sure you hire a reputable attorney and get in writing, the bank to release you from any further obligation. Here is a good article you may want to read all the way through ... more

The Villages of Apex New Homes for Sale

2010-01-26T00:20:00.006-05:00

Windrose is the custom homes section of The Villages of Apex.
Model Homes are Open Friday through Sunday each week.
We have a variety of homes available right now for you to choose from. Prices start in the low $300's. We also offer a wide selection of floorplans. Choose from one level Bungalows or classy two story Charleston style homes. Most floorplans offer popular wide front porches

The Villages of Apex sits on a sprawling 202 acre parcel stretching from across the street of Town Hall on Hunter Street, to NC HWY 64. When complete, this wonderful community will have a total of 1,300 condos, townhouses, apartments and single family homes. Thales Academy, a private elementary school is now open and has plans to expand to grade 12 in the near future.
Other plans include a 13-acre park, 35 miles of walkways, 220,000 square feet of retail shops and 80,000 square feet of office space. The neighborhood pool is projected to open this summer.

The Villages of Apex is being described as an extension of the existing historic downtown Apex. It will bring new businesses to the central part of town. When complete, residents can walk or bike to downtown Apex; lined with great shops and restaurants.
Apex is 5 minutes from Cary and just under 15 minutes to Raleigh. There is always something fun to do and see in these towns.
-Directions: From Cary take HWY 64 toward Apex, go left on Laura Duncan,right on Hunter Street, then rt on Ambergate Station.Follow neighborhood roads to Tender Drive or from Hwy 55 exit on Hwy 64 go 2 miles then take a right at The Villages of Apex sign. Look for our sales signs.

Get the details at www.LifeInApex.com
For a tour of new homes available for immediate occupancy at The Villages of Apex call us at 919-469-6530 or email 4ApexHomes@gmail.com

Capital Bank in Raleigh NC offering 3.9% fixed rate financing on this home today...

2009-12-29T19:21:00.004-05:00

New in Kitts Creek 1308 Legendary Lane $525,000 ....

Builder Model Sale!

Hurry in today. This 2008 home is located in the highly sought after Kitts Creek development in Morrisville NC, just minutes from RTP and surrounded by great shopping.
Loaded with custom upgrades and ready to go.

Capital Bank is offering a low fixed rate mortgage on this home at 3.9% fixed for 30 years.
Save thousands $ on closing costs using their loan program set up special for this home.
Call today for a tour of this gorgeous home... as for Pat at 919-280-4567

marketed by the Pat Hensley Group at ReMax United in Cary. www.TriangleNC.com

Cary area Salt water Pools...what are they and where can you find one?

2009-12-08T08:49:00.007-05:00

Over the past few years the Salt Water Pool have become increasingly popular. In Cary I have two wonderful homes listed for sale, both with Saltwater pools.
I get asked "what is a Salt Water Pool?"

108 Highclere in Reniassance in Regency http://www.4regency.com/

5308 Birchleaf Drive in Enchanted

Oaks http://www.4enchantedoaks.com/

Here is a great article by Ben E. Anderson, I found that will give you some insight on the Saltwater Pool:
Salt water is more comfortable for swimmers. Don't be fooled into thinking that there is no chlorine in these pools. There is. However, in a salt water pool vs. a chlorine pool, the level of chlorine needed is lower and the pH level can be a bit higher. That means the pool water does not cause burning, itching, dry skin, or green hair. It also smells and tastes better.

These pools are less expensive to maintain. A salt water pool vs. chlorine pool is a lot cheaper over time because you do not have to add chlorine tablets to the water. Instead, you just add salt! The salt water runs through and electrical system that charges the salt and creates chlorine on its own. It is initially more expensive to maintain, but in only a few summers, it will pay for itself. After all chlorine tablets cost $60 or more per bucket and you'll only need about $20 worth of salt every summer, in most cases...more

Looking for a knockout home with a pool in Cary?

Give me a call at 919-280-4567 and let me show you the best of the best that Cary has to offer.

Visit us on-line at http://www.trianglenc.com/

New Tax Credit for all Home Buyers Explained...

2009-11-09T13:58:00.004-05:00

2009-2010 Home Buyer Federal Tax Credit Fact Sheet

Who is Eligible
-First-time home buyers, who are defined by the law as buyers who have not owned a principal residence during the three-year period prior to the purchase, may be eligible for up to an $8,000 tax credit.

-Existing home owners who have been residing in their principal residence for five consecutive years out of the last eight and are purchasing a home to be their principal residence (“repeat buyer”), may be eligible for up to a $6,500 tax credit.

-All U.S. citizens who file taxes are eligible to participate in the program.

Income Limits

-Home buyers who file as single or head-of-household taxpayers can claim the full credit ($8,000 for first-time buyers and $6,500 for repeat buyers) if their modified adjusted gross income (MAGI) is less than $125,000.

-For married couples filing a joint return, the combined income limit is $225,000.

-Single or head-of-household taxpayers who earn between $125,000 and $145,000, and married couples who earn between $225,000 and $245,000 are eligible to receive a partial credit.

-The credit is not available for single taxpayers whose MAGI is greater than $145,000 and married couples with a MAGI that exceeds $245,000.

Effective Dates
-The eligibility period for the tax credit is for homes purchased after Nov. 6, 2009, and before May 1, 2010. However, home purchases subject to a binding sales contract signed by April 30, 2010, will qualify for the tax credit provided closing occurs prior to July 1, 2010.

Types of Homes that Qualify
-All homes with a purchase price of less than $800,000 qualify, including newly-constructed or resale, and single-family detached, townhomes or condominiums, provided that the home will be used as their principal residence. Vacation home and rental property purchases do NOT qualify.

Tax Credit is Refundable
-A refundable credit means that if the amount of income taxes you owe is less than the credit amount you qualify for, the government will send you a check for the difference.

For example:
-A first-time buyer who qualifies for the full $8,000 credit who owes $5,000 in federal income taxes would pay nothing to the IRS and receive a $3,000 payment from the government. If you are due to receive a $1,000 refund, you would receive $9,000 ($1,000 plus the $8,000 first-time home buyer tax credit).

-A repeat buyer who owes $5,000 would pay nothing to the IRS and receive $1,500 back from the government. If you are due to get a $1,000 refund, you would get $7,500 ($1,000 plus the $6,500 repeat buyer tax credit).

-All qualified home buyers can take the tax credit on their 2009 or 2010 income tax return.
Payback Provisions

The tax credit is a true credit.

It does not have to be repaid unless the home owner sells or stops using the home as their principal residence within three years after the purchase.

The http://www.federalhousingtaxcredit.com/ site is being updated. Please check the site next week for more detailed information on the new tax credit!

I hope this is helpful.

We have some wonderful homes for sale to tell you about.

Visit us on-line at http://www.trianglenc.com/ or call Pat at 919-280-4567

NC Best Business Climate...

2009-11-03T08:56:00.005-05:00

Once again North Carolina has been named the by Site Magazine as the state with the best business climate.

The magazine sites the state's low taxes, strong work force, incentives and economic development strategy; along with low union participation, utility infrastructure and legal and regulatory environment.

Thinking of starting or moving your business? Drop in and take a look around the Cary and Raleigh areas of North Carolina.

Housing is stable and employment remains strong.

Visit Real Estate Options in Cary and Raleigh at http://www.trianglenc.com/ or give us a call for more in depth information at 919-280-4567 and ask for Pat.

Cary NC Million Dollar Tour of Homes from the Pat Hensley Group at ReMax

2009-10-30T08:36:00.007-05:00

Below are 4 Top Cary area Luxury Homes with Virtual Tours.

We provide confidential consultation and home tours that meet your busy schedule. Give us a call today 919-469-6530.

1208 Graedon MLS # 1662769 $1,000,000 Virtual Tour Link

108 Highclere MLS # 1672118 $1,179,000 Virtual Tour Link

5308 Birchleaf MLS # 1676049 $899,900 Virtual Tour Link

1917 Olde Mill Forest MLS # 1672120 $800,000 Virtual Tour Link

More Great Homes marketed by the Pat Hensley Group at ReMax in Cary NC:

From the low $100's

$144,900 730 Sandy Forks Rd Click here for details

$150,000 508 Baygall Click Here for more

$159,500 2624 Forest Shadows Click here for details

Over $300,000:

$394,900 237 Baines Ct Click here for details

$499,900 1316 Legendary Click here of details

$499,900 5405 Blue Sage Click here for details

$550,000 1308 Legendary Click here for details

$$575,000 227 Lions Gate Click here for details

View all Homes for Sale in Cary and surrounding areas MLS Search

Free Foreclosure Sale Search Click here for Foreclosure Listings be sure to use the arrows at the top of each listing to see all homes.

Call the Pat Hensley Group today 919-280-4567

Finding the best mortgage loans ....

2009-10-22T21:35:00.004-05:00

Confused if a 30 year fixed rate loan or ARM is best for you? Should you pay for PMI ...?

These are questions every buyer has when shopping for the best mortgage loan. Here's a short explanation of popular mortgage loans:

30-year fixed rate. As the name implies, this is a loan financed for 30 years at with an interest that never changes. Compared with an adjustable-rate mortgage, or ARM, you'll pay a slightly higher interest rate but have the comfort of knowing it won't change over the life of the loan.

ARM. Sometimes known as "hybrid" loans, ARMs offer a low fixed rate of interest at the beginning of the loan, followed by rate adjustments that are tied to a changing market index. For instance, a 5/1 loan has a fixed rate in the first five years and a rate that's adjusted every year after that. These mortgages may work well for people who plan to move or refinance their homes with a fixed-rate mortgage before the interest begins to go up and increase your loan payment.

Option ARM. You can pay the full interest and principal due each month or just the interest, or make a partial interest payment. The third option is particularly hazardous because the unpaid interest will be added to the principal you owe… This could make your house payment double.
Interest only. You pay only interest for the first five years or so and both interest and principal in the remaining 25 years. Another version is the interest-only fixed-rate mortgage. Like ARMs, you'll end up with substantially higher monthly payments unless you sell or refinance your home.

Questions to ask before you decide which of these loans are best for you:
Will the interest on your ARM be adjusted every year, every six months or every month?
Is there a cap on the interest?

Does the cap apply to the first adjustment or only to subsequent adjustments?

Is there a cap on your payments, which could cause your obligation to soar?

Does the mortgage include prepayment penalties or balloon payments?

Private mortgage insurance, known as PMI, can cost hundreds of dollars a month.
You can avoid having to buy private mortgage insurance (which protects the lender, not you) by putting down at least 20% on your home. Once you've reduced your loan balance to 78%, the lender must cancel your PMI unless you're considered a credit risk.

I hope this helps.

Call Pat with questions about how to find the best mortage loans. 919-280-4567

We are also here to help you buy or sell a home in Cary NC.

View all homes for sale on-line www.TriangleNC.com

Cary NC Homes for Sale Free Custom Home Search

2009-10-12T05:47:00.003-05:00

Find your dream home in Cary. The Pat Hensley Group at ReMax can help you by coutomizing a home search so you never miss a great buy again.

http//www.4Freelist.com

It's easy and fast. No Obligation and all information is confidential.

http//www.4FreeList.com

What is "Home Staging"....?

2009-10-07T07:58:00.005-05:00

Home Staging...

You hear this is a term thrown around a lot today. It's commonly used by Real Estate professioanls when decribing how to best showcase a home For Sale.
It means making your home attractive to prospective home shoppers inside and out.

First make sure your home is appealing from the outiside. This is called "curb appeal". A manicured lawn and fresh scrubbed exterior implies a well maintained home.
Make sure address numbers are clear and easy to see from the curb. Otherwise, buyers might drive to your neighbor's house by mistake.
Add lighting to make the house look great at night. "People often do an evening 'drive-by' before they decide to ask for a showing.
Clean and de-clutter. Mail, bathroom toiletries, laundry and kids' toys need to be out of view. If you're not sure what should go...remember that less is always better.
The knickknacks that make a house a home can distract buyers from visualizing a property as their own, so remove personal items such as family photographs, trophies and vacation pictures.
Update a boring room. Doing something simple, such as placing bright pillows over an old sofa, this can greatly improve a room's appearance.
Remove excess furnitue. A crowded room will feel too small.

Home staging is essential in this tough market. Buyers tend to choose a home based on emotion rather than price. Consumers are price savvy, and they'll make sure they're getting a good buy, but it is the emotional appeal of a nice-looking home that makes them want to buy your home.

Buying or selling a home in Cary or Raleigh...? Give us a call. We will give you solid advice to get you where you want to go... visit us on-line at http://www.trianglenc.com/

Do Open Houses Sell Homes in 2009?

2009-08-31T08:41:00.002-05:00

Do Open Houses sell Homes?

In this economy, you need to use every tool possible to draw attention to your property.

Open Houses remain a market stable to attract buyers that just don’t want to make a personal appointment with an agent to visit a home that interests them, just as some folks don’t like sales clerks hovering in the background when they shop for clothes. Open houses give these people a chance to browse without too much pressure.
I always recommend Open Houses in New Home subdivisions since the builder/s are doing extensive advertising to draw traffic to the neighborhood.
On-line tours and photos are great but they can’t convey how a home smells, sounds or feels — and, as anyone who has seen a room shot through a wide-angle lens knows, they can deceive.
In 2006, 47% of buyers said they used open houses as an information source in their home search; in 2008, the number was 48%.
Tips If you’re planning an open house:
• Clean like crazy beforehand, preferably with good-smelling organic cleaners that won’t upset anyone’s allergies.
• Clear out the clutter, pets, toys and even extra cars from the garage.
• Draw back the drapes, clean the windows and remove the screens so the most light shines in.
• Mow the lawn, trim the hedges and put some blooming flowers in pots by the doorway
• Make sure that your home is free of clutter, pets, children, scattered toys, extra cars in the driveway — and you.
• Lock up your valuables and prescription drugs — which you should do before putting your house on the market anyway.

Call Pat for more tips to get your home sold in today's economy. 919-280-4567 or see us on-line at www.TriangleNC.com

Raleigh Home for sale with Pool and Guest House

2009-08-16T12:28:00.002-05:00

Raleigh home with Pool and Guest Apartment...

Come see this custom designed home loaded upgrades and flooded with sunshine from walls of windows. The private acre homesite is expertly landscaped to enchance enjoyment of the pool and covered verandas. Luxury is found inside and out.
The pool house has a full kitchen with a granite barstool island.
Upstairs you have a spacious studio apartment with fireplace and walk-out balcony.

Grab the details at www.4EnchantedOaks.com or call Pat 919-280-4567

Get the details about our local area at www.TriangleNC.com

7 Easy Updates for Your Homes Exterior...

2009-08-03T09:25:00.008-05:00

Here are some easy fixes to make your home the best on the block...
1. Paint your house! This may be an obvious one, so I have to get it out of the way first. Even so, not enough people do it. Most houses need it anyway. Go crazy, do what you have always wanted. Many tones of the same hue can really add dimension to the house. And remember, decorative moldings on older houses give license to use more than one color. Good prep work, like sanding off worn and chipping areas and look better.
2. Change out-dated light fixtures -- or add lights if you don't have some already. Light up your doorways and walkways. Better to have more lights at lower wattages than one, very bright one.

3. Add landscaping. Consult your local nursery for plants and shrubs that work best in your area. If you're an urban dweller, don't let cement stop you -- add potted planters. The right landscaping around a property will make all the difference in the world.

4. Replace a worn-out garage door with a new model. This will have a big impact especially if you have a front-facing garage. Manufacturers offer many designs and decorative accessories so it’s easy to find a door that will complement the architecture of your home.

5. Illuminate your landscape. This will completely change the look of your property at night. Angle low lights to point up at trees and bushes and point down along a pathway for safety. Keep it simple. Use solar lights that charge during the day and you won’t have to run wires.

6. Resurface your driveway. Instead of a tarred or cement driveway, consider installing one with a woven stone and grass pattern. This can do wonders for curb appeal.

7. Add a stone walkway or path going to the house instead of grass or a wide berth of cement.

Have fun and give us a call ... we love to help with ideas. Pat www.TriangleNC.com

919-280-4567

Enchanted Oaks Home for Sale...

2009-07-13T11:45:00.007-05:00

5405 Blue Sage Drive, Raleigh NC
This lovely Cape Cod sits graciously on a lush one acre lot. Large spacious rooms offer loads of natural light. Built using a popular William Poole design. A 5 car garage is hard to find. An impressive circular driveway enhances the grand front yard. Bring your boat, large SUV's... there's plenty of room. Breathtaking interior. Rich hand milled trimwork throughout. Just painted inside & out. In addition you have new carpets, gleaming refinished hardwoods floors with picture frame inlay. The Triple bonus room area upstairs offer many great entertainment options. The Huge sunny Kitchen has new Stainless appliances, new hand selected granite counters, double pantries and walk-in storage. There is an unfinished attic over detached 2 car garage for ample storage. From here you can walk to the neighborhood pool and tennis courts. Enchanted Oaks is a quite subdivision within 10 minutes of downtown Raleigh. You will be just 5 minutes from all the Cary's shopping and restaurants. Easy access to I-40 and the Research Triangle Park (RTP). Like to boat? Then you will love being only 2 miles up the road from Lake Wheeler. Here you can boat, fish and enjoy the hiking trails. Call Pat for a tour today 919-280-4567 Get the details at www.5405BlueSage.com

http://www.trianglenc.com/ 919-280-4567

home Revovations that give you the highest return for money spent...

2009-07-02T07:56:00.007-05:00

Some remodeling projects not only add to the home's value, but they give prospective buyers more incentives to buy in the first place, particularly in a competitive market such as this one.

Many buyers judge a house by its exterior. So it's little surprise that among the home improvement projects most appreciated by buyers are midrange wood deck additions and siding replacements, according to Remodeling magazine's 2008-2009 Cost vs. Value Report, which looks at the return of investment for various remodeling projects. Owners who put decks on their homes recouped 81.8 percent of their money, and siding replacement projects gave homeowners 80.7 percent of a return on investment.
How to get your home to stand out from the crowd?
Top 5 midrange renovations by return on investment
Project Job cost Resale value Cost recouped
Deck addition (wood) $10,601 $8,676 81.8%
Siding replacement (vinyl) $10,256 $8,274 80.7%
Minor kitchen remodel $21,246 $16,881 79.5%
Window replacement (wood) $11,512 $8,946 77.7%
Window replacement (vinyl) $10,537 $8,132 77.2%

For more information on how to get your home sold in today's market, give us a call

919-280-4567 Pat
Source: Remodeling magazine's Cost vs. Value Report 2008-09

Quick no cost ways to make your home more inviting...

2009-06-17T19:06:00.007-05:00

5 Simple and easy fixes to make your home more inviting ...

1. Place an attractive a plate of cookies in the kitchen. This will make them stay and look around.

2. Hide pet toys, bowls and litter boxes. Make sure pets are away for all

home showings.

3. Heat an apple pie in the oven. Studies show that the smell of baked goodies gives your home a welcome...stay awhile smell.

4. Turn on lights in dimly lit hallways and rooms. Light up the Kitchen with

all the lights you have. This is the most important room in your home.

5. Put away toilet brushes, plungers, sponges, toothbrushes and medications.

Place fresh soaps and candles in the baths.

For more helpful hints ...give us a call or email us back.

Visit us on-line http://www.trianglenc.com/ for Free lists of Homes for Sale and Local information.

919-280-4567

Million Dollar Cary NC Luxury Homes for Sale

2009-06-12T09:33:00.007-05:00

Cary NC area Luxury Homes for Sale.

1208 Graedon $ 1,150,000

Built 2008. Private Estate on 3 Acres with a 4 Car Garage. Full Basement.

Located just 7 miles outside of Cary city limits.

Builders personal home. Perfect for the discriminating buyer looking for privacy and comfortable luxury. Price includes $50,000 buyer allowance towards custom finishing the basement.

Virtual tour : http://www.360digitalpics.com/idx1662769/360D_idx1662769.html

Let us give you a tour this week. Pat 919-280-4567

View all Cary Million Dollar Homes for Sale: http://www.4luxuryhomes.com/

Homeowners Insurance things to remember...

2009-06-06T17:46:00.004-05:00

Then there is homeowners insurance….

This is often a last rushed through item on the long list of important things to remember when buying a home.
Ask anyone who has suffered through a fire or one of natures’ many natural disasters, they will tell you “homeowners insurance can means the difference between losing everything or getting back close to what you had before.”

What the difference between Replacement Costs and Actual Cash Value?

Sounds simple enough on the surface but let’s take a closer look at what these two things mean.
Many policies severely restrict how much money you'd get to replace your stuff and limit or even exclude some common household items from your policy.

If you have a policy that pays out actual cash value on your home's contents, for example, you'd get a check for what your possessions were worth when they were destroyed, not what they would cost to replace.

It's much better to spring for replacement cost on your contents. You'd typically still get an initial check for the depreciated value of your items, but after you replaced them (and provided receipts to your insurer), you'd get another check to make make up the difference.. The cost of this coverage is typically about 10% to 20% more than actual-cash-value coverage.
Even with this extra protection, you could still be vulnerable.

Some policies provide replacement-cost coverage for most items but make exceptions for others. Your policy might give you a check to buy a new couch, for example, but decide to depreciate your carpet and give you only a fraction of the replacement cost.

The only way to know how you're protected is to read your policy, front to back.
Many policies set your contents coverage to a percentage of your overall policy limit. If your home is insured for $500,000, for example, your contents coverage might be half or less than half that amount, depending on the insurer's policies.

Obviously, there's a lot of variation, and these limits don't reflect whether your furniture consists of Chippendale or chipped-and-dented. The only way to be sure you're adequately covered is to do a detailed household inventory, writing down all of your possessions and what they would cost to replace.

Boring and time consuming but it's time you'll be glad you invested if you're ever faced with making a claim.

Have more questions? We are happy to guide you to more information.

Give us a call at 919-280-4567

Drop in on-line at www.TriangleNC.com

Cary Senior Living in upscale style at Regency Park

2009-05-28T12:18:00.011-05:00

Lions Gate in Regency Park Cary NC...

Grand Townhome with private interior elevator.

Now enjoy your entire home without the worry of stairs.

This luxury townhome has elevator access from your parking level up.

Conveniently located in the heart of the highly sought after Regency Park area of Cary. Walk to the beautiful Symphony Lake and Koka Booth Amphitheater.
Great restaurants and shopping are just up the street.

Visit http://www.trianglenc.com/ for details and local information.

919-280-4567

How to make a small home seem bigger...

2009-05-26T07:51:00.005-05:00

Okay, you need to sell your home because you have run out of space. How do you sell your home and make it look like it’s not too small for prospective buyers?

Fake more space

Buyers always want more for their money. Here are several ways to create the illusion of extra square feet.
· Get a storage unit: Without me even seeing your home, I know you don’t need half your stuff to function while your home is up for sale. It’s amazing what we accumulate over time. Once you box it up and store it, you will be surprised just what you really don’t need. Opening up your rooms by getting rid of clutter will give your home an immediate breath of fresh air.
· Bedroom: Remove one piece of furniture — an ottoman or a second nightstand. Too-tight spaces are a major buyer turnoff.
Windows: Take down worn drapes. Don't worry about replacing them — bare windows always make your home look bigger and sunnier.
Closet: Empty closets by two thirds to create a plenty-of-storage feel. Box and store out-of-season clothes and shoes. Get stuff off the closet floor to give the closet an even more spacious feeling.
Family room: You can double other people's perception of your home's play space — just pack up and put away half of your kids' toys.
Kitchen: Clear small appliances and papers…off your counters. Reducing the number of items visually triples the work space.
Cabinets: Stop buying in bulk at the warehouse club. Reducing inventory lets you arrange supplies so that the shelves seem roomier.
Dining room: Create a feeling of uninterrupted flow by taking out dining-room table leaves and removing all but four chairs. Yes, remove the kids toys…

These are just a few helpful tips. For more ideas, just send me an email and I will send you my comprehensive list of what to do. Okay, Ready to make a move? Give me a call and let’s get started and have some fun too. Pat Hensley 919-280-4567 http://www.trianglenc.com/