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All About North Carolina Real Estate

By Eleanor Thorne, Advantage Lending 919-649-5058
(Equity Resources)
Many of the home buyers we talk to struggle with down payment, meaning coming up with 10 to 20% for a down payment just isnt happening.  So what are the alternatives to a no down payment USDA Home Loan Program near Raleigh? If you are not a Veteran, qualifying for a VA Loan – then the FHA Loans in Garner and Fuquay Varina NC are the most flexible options. We CAN offer down payment assistance with this program, and that means you can live where you want to !Western Wake County, especially the areas closest to Fayetteville, are growing like wildfire. Not surprising, you can benefit from a home that’s located in “small town USA” with award winning schools!  Fuquay Varina and Garner are two cities that have benefited from this unique location. Unfortunately, USDA Home Loans, the program tha...
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By Steve and Eleanor Thorne, Mortgage Loan Johnston County
(Advantage Lending, NMLS 60596)
Here’s a North Carolina VA Home Loan Guide, useful to those looking to buy a home in North Carolina with your VA benefits. Whether you’re a first time home buyer or relocating after deployment, VA loans are one of the best military home loan options available. This guide breaks down everything Veterans and active-duty service members need to know—from eligibility and steps to closing timelines and tips for buying near bases like Fort Liberty, Camp Lejeune, and Seymour Johnson AFB.North Carolina VA Home Loan Guide: What Veterans Need to KnowIf you’re a Veteran or active-duty service member thinking about buying a home in North Carolina, the VA loan program could be your ticket to homeownership—with no down payment required. Whether you’re stationed near Fort (Bragg) Liberty, living close...
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By Nina Hollander, Broker, Your Greater Charlotte Real Estate Broker
(Coldwell Banker Realty)
April 2025 Waxhaw, NC Area Housing MarketPrices, Sales, Inventory, Days on Market Trends In April 2025, the Waxhaw (28173 zip code) housing market showed signs of both strength and balance, with key metrics shifting in response to market activity.  The median sale price rose nearly 5% month-over-month to $728,000, though it remained about 6% below April 2024 levels—likely due to the price mix of homes sold rather than declining home values.  The average sale price, while down 5.2% from March, was still higher than one year ago, marking the strongest performance compared with April 2024 and 2023. Again, the decline in average sale price month-over-month is likely due to the price mix of homes sold rather than to declining home values. Price per square foot averaged $259 in April 2025, do...
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By Nina Hollander, Broker, Your Greater Charlotte Real Estate Broker
(Coldwell Banker Realty)
4th Annual Pineville Arts In The Park Festival: May 17, 2025 The Town of Pineville is proud to host its annual Pineville Arts In The Park on Saturday, May 17, 2025, from 10:00 AM till 5:00 PM at Pineville's Lake Park, located at 1000 Johnston Drive, Pineville, NC.  This free, family-friendly event promises a vibrant celebration of creativity and community. Stroll through the park and explore a wide variety of local art vendors, unique handmade crafts, and one-of-a-kind treasures. Enjoy a tasty bite from an array of food trucks offering everything from classic comfort food to gourmet treats. The event also includes live entertainment, with performances from local musicians and performers, plus a variety of fun activities for kids, including a Children's Art Zone. Whether you're a local r...
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By Eleanor Thorne, Advantage Lending 919-649-5058
(Equity Resources)
Part of Durham County, NC qualifies for USDA mortgages – and the qualifying guidelines have recently changed!  We will cover as many USDA Home Loans Durham NC tips as we can – but feel free to reach out to us for more information.To see maps specific to where you can find a home that qualifies for this 100% financing in Durham, click hereThe maximum income is calculated per family members living at home. In general, USDA Home Loans Durham meet different income guidelines than other areas in North Carolina.The current guidelines are: 1 person in the household maximum income is $116,300 2 people in the household maximum income is $116,300 3 people in the household maximum income is $116,300 4 people in the household maximum income is $116,300 5 people in the household maximum income is $1...
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By Nina Hollander, Broker, Your Greater Charlotte Real Estate Broker
(Coldwell Banker Realty)
April 2025 Ballantyne Housing Report:Prices, Sales, Inventory, Days on Market Trends Ballantyne real estate April 2025 experienced a mix of trends. The median sale price increased to $571,900, up 3.98% from the previous month and was 10.64% lower than a year ago. This decline reflects the price mix of homes sold rather than a decrease in home values. The average sale price declined 8.53% month-over-month to $637,835 and declined 12.46% from April one year ago. Again, this year-over-year decline reflects the price mix of homes sold rather than a decrease in Ballantyne home values. Homes sold for an average of $270 price per square foot, marking a 1.82% decline from March and a 1.89% gain year-over-year. Homes continued to sell close to their list prices, with a list-to-sale price ratio o...
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By Nina Hollander, Broker, Your Greater Charlotte Real Estate Broker
(Coldwell Banker Realty)
 CHARLOTTE LUXURY HOMES MARKET: APRIL 2025  YEAR-OVER-YEAR TRENDS IN CHARLOTTE REGION'S LUXURY SINGLE FAMILY HOME MARKET    New Listings and Inventory   In April 2025, the luxury home market saw a 39.2% increase in new listings compared with April one year ago. Inventory levels also experienced a rise, increasing by 37.5% from the same month one year ago. These changes indicate a replenishment of market offerings, providing more options for potential buyers.     Supply and Demand Dynamics   The months supply of homes for sale increased 8.3%, settling at 3.9 months compared with 3.6 months in April 2024. While still technically a home seller's market, the Charlotte region luxury home market is hovering on the cusp of becoming a balanced market.     Price Trends   The market saw appreciat...
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By Nina Hollander, Broker, Your Greater Charlotte Real Estate Broker
(Coldwell Banker Realty)
LOST SOCK MEMORIAL DAYHonoring All Those Socks Gone Missing Without a Trace "Life is too short to waste time matching socks." - Helen Pluckrose Today, we gather in solemn—and slightly ridiculous—remembrance of a true domestic tragedy: the unmatched sock. Yes, it’s Lost Sock Memorial Day, a time to pause and pay tribute to all those socks that mysteriously vanish in the laundry vortex, never to be seen again. Some call it a silly holiday. Others (especially those with overstuffed sock drawers) know it all too well. Strangely, Lost Sock Memorial Day always brings a smile to my face. Maybe it’s the absurdity of it all—or the fact that I don’t even wear socks! Fun fact: if you missed it, May 8th was “No Socks Day,” so it’s only fitting that today we honor the fallen socks..A Moment of Silen...
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By Nina Hollander, Broker, Your Greater Charlotte Real Estate Broker
(Coldwell Banker Realty)
5 STAR REVIEW FOR NINA HOLLANDER, CHARLOTTE REALTOR® WITH COLDWELL BANKER REALTY WHAT HAPPY CHARLOTTE HOME SELLERS ARE SAYING ABOUT NINA HOLLANDER'S SERVICE:" You definitely won't go wrong with Nina as your Realtor®. We can't imagine anyone would be better." Nina Hollander with Coldwell Banker Realty in Charlotte, North Carolina is delighted to share this 5-Star Review from very special clients who recently sold their condo in Charlotte with her assistance. What's better than a review from a client telling you how happy they are with your services, that they appreciate your hard work on their behalf, and that they appreciate your advice and enjoyed working with you?   Building long-term relationships with my clients, professional colleagues, and industry partners is the cornerstone of m...
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By Desiree Whalen, The Whalen Team
(Keller Williams Realty)
by The Whalen Team.**AVAILABLE NOW!** Beautiful 3br/2bth golf home with views of the 10th tee box in popular Castle Bay Country Club, Hampstead NC! Community pool, tennis courts, fitness center, & more! PICS/INFO/PRICING >> https://www.desireewhalen.com/property/100502211/
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By Nina Hollander, Broker, Your Greater Charlotte Real Estate Broker
(Coldwell Banker Realty)
Matthews Summerfest 2025 Returns May 9–10 with A New Name, Fresh Vibes, and Two Days of Family FunA much loved Matthews tradition is getting a new name and an exciting update. The Town of Matthews’ annual summer festival, previously known as BeachFest, has been rebranded and is now Matthews Summerfest, presented by Novant Health – Matthews Medical Center. The 17th annual celebration will be held at Stumptown Park on Friday, May 9 (6–10 PM.) and Saturday, May 10 (10 AM–10 PM).  Stumptown Park is located at 120 South Trade Street in Matthews.  Admission is free. There’s a cost for rides and other activities. On Friday night you can get a $30 wristband for all-you-can-ride night in the Carnival. Please note that no pets are allowed. Fun for All Ages at Matthews Summerfest 2025Matthews Summ...
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By Nina Hollander, Broker, Your Greater Charlotte Real Estate Broker
(Coldwell Banker Realty)
Selling in 2025? Here’s What Buyers Are Really Looking For🔍...... How To Position Your Home🏡 To Sell🪧  Faster In Today's Market As we move further into 2025, the real estate market is undergoing significant changes, particularly with a noticeable increase in housing inventory. This shift means that sellers are facing more competition, making it more important than ever to understand the evolving preferences and expectations of today's home buyers. To stand out in a crowded market, sellers must align their offerings with what buyers truly value in a home—whether it's energy efficiency, updated amenities, flexible living spaces, or proximity to key services and transportation. I recently published a comprehensive guide outlining the six key priorities for homebuyers in 2025, along with ac...
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By Desiree Whalen, The Whalen Team
(Keller Williams Realty)
by The Whalen Team.**JUST LISTED!!** Located on one of the most desirable streets in the community, Ocean Ridge, this beautifully landscaped estate offers both Intracoastal Waterway and ocean views, delivering a true coastal lifestyle from the moment you arrive. Surrounded by majestic live oaks, peaceful water features, and lush gardens, this home has earned its place in the spotlight—featured on both the Azalea Garden Tour and Fall Tours for its elegance and thoughtful design. With 5 bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms, and generous office and gathering spaces throughout its 5,750 square feet, the home is perfectly suited for both entertaining and everyday living. Nearly every room is oriented to take full advantage of the captivating water views. Outdoors, your private retreat continues—enjoy the...
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By Nina Hollander, Broker, Your Greater Charlotte Real Estate Broker
(Coldwell Banker Realty)
As I mentioned in my post yesterday, I was inspired to take on a "mini-challenge" from Roy Kelley  and Nick Vandekar, 610-203-4543  to see what AI had to say about me as a real estate professional. I asked the exact same question of both ChatGPT and Grok 3. Yesterday’s post shared what I received from ChatGPT, and today I’m sharing Grok 3’s response. It was fascinating to see how the same question led to two very different takes. ChatGPT gave a more biographical overview, while Grok 3 focused in on my blog and website to describe me and my real estate practice. Nina Hollander's Blogging: A Beacon of Real Estate Expertise on ActiveRain and GreatHomesInCharlotte.com Nina Hollander, a seasoned real estate broker with Coldwell Banker Realty in Charlotte, North Carolina, has established hers...
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By Steve and Eleanor Thorne, Mortgage Loan Johnston County
(Advantage Lending, NMLS 60596)
USDA Home Loans remain a top choice for North Carolina homebuyers, especially with the 2025 income limits increasing once again! These no-down-payment loans offer lower interest rates and reduced monthly mortgage insurance compared to FHA or Conventional loans, making them an excellent option for many families.  USDA Home Loan income limits in NC, generally allow you to purchase upto a home valued at $425,000 with no down payment (depending on your other debts)… maybe more!To qualify, the home must be located in an eligible USDA area, and household income must fall below the updated limits. For most counties in NC, the new 2025 USDA income limits are: $112,450 for households of 1–4 people $148,450 for households of 5–8 people If your household has more than 8 members, the limit increase...
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By Eleanor Thorne, Advantage Lending 919-649-5058
(Equity Resources)
As the Federal Reserve prepares to make its next rate announcement this Wednesday, you’re likely seeing bold predictions everywhere—rates will drop! No, wait, rates will spike!  But here’s the truth most won’t say out loud: when it comes to mortgage rates, predictions are for suckers.That’s not a cop-out—it’s reality.Whether you’re a homebuyer trying to time your mortgage lock or just someone watching the economy, the urge to follow expert forecasts can be strong. After all, every week there’s another “top economist” predicting what the 10-Year Treasury or mortgage rates will do next. But here’s what most people don’t realize: even the pros are wrong half the time.The Market Is Built on GuessesFinancial traders are betting billions of dollars every day trying to out-guess the market. Th...
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By Nina Hollander, Broker, Your Greater Charlotte Real Estate Broker
(Coldwell Banker Realty)
Inspired by posts from Roy Kelley and Nick Vandekar, 610-203-4543 I asked ChatGPT , "Tell me about Nina Hollander blogger on Active Rain." The bio ChatGPT provided was a total disappointment, as all I got was nothing more than rewrite of what I myself had posted for my bio on the internet. So I decided to back to ChatGPT and ask a more specific question about myself and my blogging here in the Rain and on my website. This time, ChatGPT came up with something much more interesting:   Nina Hollander: Charlotte's Premier Real Estate BrokerIn the bustling real estate market of Charlotte, North Carolina, one name stands out for her professionalism, expertise, and client-centric approach: Nina Hollander. With over three decades of experience in the industry, Nina has established herself as a ...
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By Nina Hollander, Broker, Your Greater Charlotte Real Estate Broker
(Coldwell Banker Realty)
Teacher Appreciation Week 2025 👩‍🏫🏫🧑‍🎓👏Honoring The Dedication, Hard Work, And Lasting Impact Of Teachers— Who Shape Minds, Inspire Growth, And Change Lives Every Day “A good education can change anyone. A good teacher can change everything!” ...Unknown Teacher Appreciation Week is an annual celebration held the first full week of May, and in 2025, it takes place from May 4 through May 10. This special week is dedicated to recognizing the incredible dedication, hard work, and impact that teachers have on our lives, both inside and outside the classroom. “It’s the teacher that makes the difference, not the classroom.” ... Michael Morpurgo The highlight of this week is Teacher Appreciation Day on May 5. But one day simply isn't enough to honor the immense contributions teachers make every...
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By Nina Hollander, Broker, Your Greater Charlotte Real Estate Broker
(Coldwell Banker Realty)
Charlotte's Hidden Giants: Small Businesses, Big Impact! Charlotte Celebrates Small Business Month In May 2025 "Small businesses are the heart of the community, and when we support them, we're supporting our neighbors, friends, and family." - Unknown The City of Charlotte is recognizing the vital role entrepreneurs and small businesses play in the local economy by hosting a variety of events throughout May in honor of Small Business Month. Charlotte’s celebration aligns with National Small Business Week (May 4–10), established in 1963 by President John F. Kennedy. Small and local businesses are at the heart of Charlotte’s economic and cultural vibrancy. They bring character to neighborhoods, provide essential goods and services, and are a powerful engine for job creation and innovation....
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By Nina Hollander, Broker, Your Greater Charlotte Real Estate Broker
(Coldwell Banker Realty)
Charlotte Region Headlines: Military Games, Housing Growth, Top-Ranked Schools, And More  📉 Fewer Cash Sales in Charlotte 34% of Charlotte-area homes purchased in 2024 were bought with cash, down from 36.6% in 2023, data shows.  Cash buyers — many of them investors — are pulling back after going on a pandemic-era shopping spree. The shift could indicate changing dynamics in the local housing market and reduced investor activity.  🌍 Charlotte to Host the 2027 Military World Summer Games The International Military Sports Council (CISM) has awarded the 2027 Military World Summer Games to the United States, with Charlotte as the host city. This will be the first time the Games are held in the United States, projected to bring the state $3 billion in economic impact. Around 10,000 military ...
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North Carolina Real Estate Agents and Real Estate Professionals