June 2012 Absorption Rate in Wake Forest NC Real Estate

The absorption rate is stabilizing - happy dance!  What does it mean for you?  Stop by my website to learn all about an absorption rate and how it effects both buyers and sellers of real estate!

Posted via email from The Wake Forest NC House Chick

Selling Your Home During the Summer? Have the Coolest Listing in this Hot Market!

If your home is currently on the market then this is a post for YOU!  While I am SURE your Realtor® prepared you for what to do when you have scheduled showings like lights on, soft music, etc there are some special touches that you can do for a showing in the summer that just might make your home stand out!

Summer conjures up memories of cookouts, swimming pools, lemonade and fireflies......so, why not get the buyer that will be previewing your home in the right frame of mind?

• Be sure you have some "punched up" flower power for when the buyer first shows up!  Whether it be some fresh new plantings around the mailbox or some bright potted flowers on the porch you just can't ignore the visual of flowers!
• Is your doormat fresh and clean?  If you have one that indicates you have pets - remove it.  Instead, opt for a crisp, clean straw mat in perhaps a summer color that coordinates well with other attributes of your exterior.  (shutter colors, front door color, etc)
• Open all the blinds so that buyers have a clear view of the front and back yards.  Let the sun shine in!  (don't forget to clean your windows!)
• Make sure your air conditioner is set to a very cool temperature!  
• If you have scents in your home you may want to go for a summer scent such as a citrus smell, a crisp herb smell such as basil or even a light honeysuckle scent.
• Offering a light snack?  Many sellers do!  If so, opt for a lighter snack such as a lemon cookie (instead of chocolate chip) and some small bottled waters or a pitcher of lemonade!  Don't forget to offer some napkins as well!
• Show off your deck and grilling area!  If you have a table on your deck be sure to have the umbrella opened and the table staged.  Yes, stage the table on the deck!  Outdoor serverware is perfect for getting the buyer to visualize what it might be like to sit on the deck and have a late summer afternoon dinner. 
• Have a large yard?  Show it off!  You may want to consider a soccer net or a Bocce Ball area.  
• Do swimming pool?  If so, make sure it is crystal clear and stage the decking area with clean and well maintained chairs!
• Choose your music wisely.  It's always wonderful to have soft music playing in the background when your home is being shown.  Light jazz or blues is always a safe choice!

Show off your homes BEST assets and how comfortable it is in the hot summer months!  The more you can get a buyer in the mood and "living in your home" the better the chance you have that it will stand out when compared against others they have seen!

If you are considering putting your home for sale in Wake Forest NC I would welcome the opportunity to speak with you!  As a top real estate agent in Wake Forest NC I have the resources, network and skills to get your home sold in the quickest time frame with the least amount of stress and for the highest amount.  Feel free to visit my website, Wake Forest NC House Chick, to research me!  You can also call me at 919-649-6128 or simply send me an email - it's just that easy!  

To keep up with all the latest on the Wake Forest NC Real Estate Market you just can't miss my Facebook Fan Page - Wake Forest NC House Chick!

Exceptional Horse Property Close to Raleigh - 12+ acres with Estate Home for sale!

GREEN Tips for Around the House - Garbage Disposal Odor

I am listing a vacant home in Wake Forest NC that is absolutely adorable!  Great floorplan, perfect location and gorgeous curb appeal!
The inside had fresh paint, new carpet and new vinyl in the baths.

There is only one teeny tiny problem with the home.  There was a terrible smell emanating from the garbage disposal!  Eewww.....

I had tried just about everything I could think of and the sellers had as well.  Then, I came across this little recipe and gave it a try:

• 1/2 cup - 1 cup baking soda
• 6 vinegar ice cubes
• cold tap water

1. Freeze some white vinegar in an old ice cube tray.
2. Throw a handful of baking soda into disposal
3. toss in 3 or more vinegar ice cubes
4. run the garbage disposal
5. keep adding vinegar ice cubes (as much as disposal can handle)
6. after all cubes are ground up run the disposal with cold water for about 2 mins.

I PROMISE you that this will work if you have those lingering smells in a garbage disposal.  The great part is that not only will it get rid of residue on the blades and clear up the smell it will sharpen the blades, too!
I hope that you find this helpful!

Who's On Your Home Buying Team?

Buying a home can be a trying time for anyone whether you are a first time buyer or a seasoned homeowner.  However, with a Team and a Plan you can successfully and with the least amount of stress find that perfect home in no time!  There are just a few simple pre-home search tips and tricks and I am happy to share them with you!

You Need A Team!  Yes, a TEAM to help you purchase your new home.  Who does your Team consist of?

1. YOUR AGENT!  And by YOUR agent I mean a Buyer's Agent.  A Buyer's Agent will be an incredible asset and advocate and most times can offer "inside scoop" information on many of the areas local developments, etc
2. Your Lender - You need to choose a financial lender that YOU are comfortable with.  Each bank is different so it is important that you ask questions of several lenders before deciding which one is right for you.
3. Your Attorney* - Your agent will be able to recommend several attorneys for you and you should speak with several before making a decision on which one will represent you in this most important transaction.  *North Carolina is a Closing Attorney state.  Our closings are NOT handled by Escrow or Title Companies.  While this post is addressed to everyone I can only speak from a North Carolina perspective - things may be different in your state. 
4. Your Inspector - Your home inspector is a CRUCIAL member of your team!  While Home Inspections are optional it is best to spend that few hundred dollars to catch any defects in a home that could cost thousands of dollars if gone un-noticed. Ask your agent to recommend a few home inspectors - it is SO worth it!

Now that you have your team assembled it is time to get your PLAN together!  Once you have found your Buyer's Agent you can get down to business and here are a few steps to get you going in the right direction!

1. Price Range - This is where your Lender comes into play!  A lender will be able to get an in-depth view of your financial picture and help you to discover what you can reasonably afford.  It is imperative that you speak with a lender PRIOR to previewing homes so as NOT to spend valuable time going in the wrong direction. 
   
2. Make a List of Wants and Needs - Sit down and make a list of Wants - those things that you think would be nice to have in your new home.  You don't NEED them but you would LIKE them.  Then make a list of your Needs - those are your absolute musts such as 3 bedrooms, 1st Floor Master, etc.
   
3. Research your Local Real Estate Market - Have your Buyer's agent provide you with local listings, market reports, local community information and more.  This is the best way to get familiar with a particular area and narrow down your desired areas/

Just a few simple steps in planning and preparation is all that is needed to get you heading down the right path to your new home!  With your pre-approval from your lender, a little market knowledge from your Buyer's Agent, and your list of wants and needs you are ready to find that home and make an offer! 

If you do happen to be looking for homes for sale in Wake Forest NC I would love to be your Buyer's Agent.  Feel free to call me at 919-649-6128 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting              919-649-6128      end_of_the_skype_highlighting begin_of_the_skype_highlighting              919-649-6128      end_of_the_skype_highlighting or simply send me an email!  I am available to answer any questions that you may have about buying a home, the local Wake Forest NC Real Estate Market and any subdivisions or homes that you may want information.  I look forward to hearing from you!

Really, I Am Not Being Rude - Please Respect My Need For Personal Safety!

I don't know why, but I still find it amazing when Potential Buyers get mad at me for not dropping everything at a moments notice and meeting them at a vacant house.  Mind you, complete strangers! 

By my nature, I am a friendly person, never met a stranger and can ALWAYS strike up a conversation. I love meeting new people and finding out what they are about, how they live their life, what they enjoy and what we have in common.  My career also dictates that I have this pre-determined outgoing nature - I mean, really?  How can one sell Real Estate if they don't like meeting new people.

What may be one of my greatest assets could one day be my demise if I didn't adhere to my own personal "Code of Safety" and listen to my common sense.  There are simple rules that I self-administer and well, quite frankly, if a Buyer or Seller can not appreciate them and/or respect them then we simply weren't meant for each other.

1. I will NEVER respond to an email from a stranger and agree to meet them at a vacant home.
2. I will NEVER respond to a phone call from a stranger and agree to meet them at a vacant house.
3. I will NEVER host an Open House by myself.
4. I will NEVER work with any buyer until there has been rapport established and identity verified.
5. I will NEVER meet a COUPLE at a vacant home. 

If you call me/email me and I don't know you then be prepared to meet in a public place, answer questions, and verify your identity.  I am a wife, a mother, a daughter, an aunt, a friend to many and I love my life and security. 

If a Buyer can not respect these wishes and rules of mine then perhaps they are better suited with another Realtor®.  Keep in mind, though, I am not a bitch,  I am just smart.

Recent cases of Unpleasant Realities*:

• St. Louis, MO - A man posing as a home buyer waited until he got a 24 year old real estate agent in an unfinished aprt of the basement and then pulled out a handgun.  He handcuffed her and sexually assaulted her, at one point putting a knife to her throat.  Afterward, he robbed her and warned her not to scream for help before leaving her alone in the new home she thought he wanted to buy.
• Liberty Township, OH - A man wearing a ski mask showed up at a model home.  The on-site agent immediately asked the man to leave and closed the model home's door, but the agent later found the man standing inside the garage.  The man grabbed her, but she fought him off and he fled the scene.
• Cary, NC - A man registered in a neighborhood's model home, then asked to see homes in the community.  Once the agent had taken the man to another home in the development, the man pulled out a knife and attacked the agent.  She was bound and sexually assaulted. 
  

*cited from the 2009-2010 NC Real Estate Update Course

The incident in Cary NC, for those of you that don't know, was literally 10 minutes away from me.  While many may always have the feeling "that could never happen here" - THINK AGAIN!
I would be remiss if I didn't also mention an incident that happened to my West Coast Sister, Cristal Drake.  She was robbed at an Open House in July 2009.  I'll never forget how I felt when I read her post - she really is my kindred and I just can't imagine.  You can read about her unfortunate event at her blog post......  Be On The Lookout for These Open House Thieves! North Orange County Agents PLEASE READY!

I don't care if you are a SEASONED AGENT or NEW TO THE BUSINESS - NO SALE IS WORTH YOUR PERSONAL SAFETY!  End of story and there really is no discussion needed.  There are many tips that I could give as both an agent and a Broker-In-Charge.....

• ALWAYS have new clients meet you at your office or public place such as coffee shop, etc.
  
• When at all possible - have another agent go with you when working with new clients.
• If you get that icky feeling - ALWAYS go with your instincts!
• Have a code word set up between you and your office so that when you are out and about showing you can call your office and they will instantly know that you need help.
• ALWAYS leave an itinerary of where you are showing with either your BIC or another agent in the office.
• Keep you cell phone on you at ALL times!  Have 911 programmed into speed dial.
• There are many "tools" that are available for protection now available nationwide through the various Association of Realtors® offices - explore them and find one that you are comfortable with.

And for all of you buyers reading this right now.  Yes, you are what keeps me going in my career and without you I wouldn't be as successful as I am.  However, there are quite a few "YOU'S" out there and if you can't respect my wishes then how can I possibly respect yours?

It's The Little Things That Will Make or Break A Showing

This morning was full of previewing homes for some clients I have coming in next week.  I am a firm believer in previewing homes BEFORE you actually take your clients through.  Why don't more agents do that I wonder?
Anyhow, all of the homes were similar in size, price, private back yards and in close proximity to each other.  All of the homes would fit my clients needs nicely.
What surprised me with each of the homes was that they had another similarity.  They were all a "little" dirty.  Now, let me explain a "little" dirty.  It was obvious in each of the homes that they were family homes.  Adults with children.  From peeking in closets, pantries and bathrooms I can see that they left in haste in the morning but had all done their best to put things in their proper place.  I am sure that as they walked out the door this morning they all had the same thought,  "This looks clean."
I will give each of them that, yes, there were clothes put away, empty kitchen sinks, toys hidden away, etc.  But what they MISSED in ALL OF THEM was this:

• Toilets with lids up and they all could have used a cleaning
• Dirty, sticky door knobs on the pantries (enough so that I had to wash my hands as I wasn't sure what I had touched)
• VERY dirty doors throughout.  Fronts and back of all interior doors had spills on them, fingerprints, handprints and just grim from every day life with children
• Front doors with kick marks on the inside where you could imagine someone constantly using their foot to close the door
• Filthy light switch plates (can't explain that one - just a HUGE pet peeve of mine!)
• Dust bunnies in the cracks and crevices around the baseboards
• Very dirty sliding glass doors/french doors leading to the outside decks and porches (little hands)
• Personal toiletry items on countertops such as shampoos, bubble baths, shaving creams, razors, etc.  Not the ones for decoration but the every day use ones.
• Front porches with spider webs (from years of buildup - not a new Charlotte's Web, mind you)

There are a few more in my notes but you get the point.  While the homes appeared clean with a cursory last glance before the sellers left for the morning - they were not.
Am I being picky?  I think not.  I can not stress enough to my sellers that when their home goes on the market it instantaneously becomes a product!  It must compete with all of the other products on the market and be shown ONLY in it's best light.
I know that as we live our lives daily we sometimes have a blind eye when it comes to our homes and it's cleanliness.  However, when a seller wishes to attract a buyer this is one of the most important areas to address.
So, if you are a seller please take heed.  Step back for a moment and REALLY take a peek at your home through the eyes of a buyer!  If you are another agent then please do your sellers justice and inform them of the importance of details.  It's the little things that just might make the difference......

A Strong Team Can Give You The Edge When Buying A Home!

Buying a home can be a trying time for anyone whether you are a first time buyer or a seasoned homeowner.  However, with a Team and a Plan you can successfully and with the least amount of stress find that perfect home in no time!  There are just a few simple pre-home search tips and tricks and I am happy to share them with you!

You Need A Team!  Yes, a TEAM to help you purchase your new home.  Who does your Team consist of?

1. YOUR AGENT!  And by YOUR agent I mean a Buyer's Agent.  A Buyer's Agent will be an incredible asset and advocate and most times can offer "inside scoop" information on many of the areas local developments, etc
2. Your Lender - You need to choose a financial lender that YOU are comfortable with.  Each bank is different so it is important that you ask questions of several lenders before deciding which one is right for you.
3. Your Attorney* - Your agent will be able to recommend several attorneys for you and you should speak with several before making a decision on which one will represent you in this most important transaction.  *North Carolina is a Closing Attorney state.  Our closings are NOT handled by Escrow or Title Companies.  While this post is addressed to everyone I can only speak from a North Carolina perspective - things may be different in your state. 
4. Your Inspector - Your home inspector is a CRUCIAL member of your team!  While Home Inspections are optional it is best to spend that few hundred dollars to catch any defects in a home that could cost thousands of dollars if gone un-noticed. Ask your agent to recommend a few home inspectors - it is SO worth it!

Now that you have your team assembled it is time to get your PLAN together!  Once you have found your Buyer's Agent you can get down to business and here are a few steps to get you going in the right direction!

1. Price Range - This is where your Lender comes into play!  A lender will be able to get an in-depth view of your financial picture and help you to discover what you can reasonably afford.  It is imperative that you speak with a lender PRIOR to previewing homes so as NOT to spend valuable time going in the wrong direction. 
   
2. Make a List of Wants and Needs - Sit down and make a list of Wants - those things that you think would be nice to have in your new home.  You don't NEED them but you would LIKE them.  Then make a list of your Needs - those are your absolute musts such as 3 bedrooms, 1st Floor Master, etc.
   
3. Research your Local Real Estate Market - Have your Buyer's agent provide you with local listings, market reports, local community information and more.  This is the best way to get familiar with a particular area and narrow down your desired areas/

Just a few simple steps in planning and preparation is all that is needed to get you heading down the right path to your new home!  With your pre-approval from your lender, a little market knowledge from your Buyer's Agent, and your list of wants and needs you are ready to find that home and make an offer! 

If you do happen to be looking for homes for sale in Wake Forest NC I would love to be your Buyer's Agent.  Feel free to call me at 919-649-6128 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting              919-649-6128      end_of_the_skype_highlighting begin_of_the_skype_highlighting              919-649-6128      end_of_the_skype_highlighting or simply send me an email!  I am available to answer any questions that you may have about buying a home, the local Wake Forest NC Real Estate Market and any subdivisions or homes that you may want information.  I look forward to hearing from you!

1212 Birkstone Court - Richland Hills / Beautiful Wake Forest NC Home For Sale

Do You Have Real Estate Questions?

• What's the Wake Forest NC Real Estate Market Like?
• I am thinking of selling my home, where should I start?
• Should I use a Buyer's Agent when looking to buy a home in Wake Forest NC?
• What is the standard commission charged to sell my home?
• What is a Comparative Market Analysis?
• What does a REALTOR do?

Do those questions sound like a few that you may have?  If so, then please visit my webpage, Wake Forest NC House Chick, and explore!  There are pages specifically for Buyers, Sellers, a real time MLS search, local Wake Forest NC information, Wake County School information and so much more!

As a top Wake Forest NC Real Estate Agent is it my responsibility to be sure that both buyers and sellers are educated!  I am always happy to answer any questions that you may have so feel free to call me at 919-649-6128 or simply send me an email - it's that simple!

Thinking of Selling Your Home in Wake Forest NC? I Can Help!

So many times potential sellers want to try and sell their home themselves (FSBO - For Sale By Owner)  Why is that?  Well, I have found, more often than not, that it is because sellers sometimes aren't quite sure what a professional Realtor® can do for them.

A professional, equipped and skilled Realtor® will assist you with a wide range of skills and aid you in making invaluable decisions during the real estate transaction.  While the following list is by no means inclusive of all of the significant services a Realtor® will provide it is an outline of how you can most certainly benefit from employing a professional:   

• Pays for all marketing and advertising costs.  Be sure to ask your Realtor® for their marketing plan.
  
• Adds experience and expertise in all aspects of the sales process including, but not limited to marketing, negotiations and more.
  
• Brings a network of known, trusted real estate professionals. If your Realtor® doesn't have the answer, he or she likely knows someone who does.
• Always has your interests in mind so you always have someone on your side.  Ask your Realtor® what the difference is between Seller's Agents vs. Buyer's Agents!
  
• Handles and advises on all price and contract negotiations.  A competent Realtor® will have prepared a rock solid CMA that will assist you with arriving at a List Price.  For more information regarding CMAs/Market Analysis you can check out this post.
  
• Gives an unbiased, realistic view of your home and your options. Unlike buyers and sellers, an agent has no emotional attachment to property.  It is important to listen to your Realtor® when discussing the highlights and potential short-comings of your home.
  
• Being an objective liaison, potential buyers are more likely to tell your Realtor® the truth about your home, even if it is unflattering. This un-biased viewpoint will help you make the necessary changes to get your home sold.
• Your time is valuable. A Realtor® allows you to spend your time how you want.

Selling your home in Wake Forest NC can be a tricky and sensitive process.  Most times it is best to remove yourself from the front line and allow an experienced and qualified Realtor® handle the process.

If you are currently contemplating selling your home in the Wake Forest NC Real Estate Market I can help!  I would be happy to meet with you and review your options, current market conditions and my marketing plan with you.  I am just a phone call away at 919.649.6128 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting              919.649.6128      end_of_the_skype_highlighting or you can simply send me an email.

Remember, I live, work and play in Wake Forest NC - I know this market better than anyone!  And, don't forget to check out my website, www.WakeForestHouseChick.com for some incredible tools you can use when preparing to sell your home!

How Much Will You Recoup on That Remodel Project? Cost vs. Value Report 2009-2010

Are you thinking of doing some updates on your home in Wake Forest NC?  Ever wonder what you'll recoup on a kitchen remodel?  A basement remodel?

The latest Cost vs. Value Report 2009-2010 is now available and there are some surprising numbers on the list. Among the top items that will get you the most return are:

• Attic Bedroom - 90% cost recouped
• Back-up Generator - 59.9% recouped
• Basement Remodel - 84.4% recouped
• Roof Replacement - 71.8% recouped

Most other improvements made to homes were down in Cost vs. Value compared with last year.  A few to note are:

• Sunroom Addition 
• Bathroom Remodel
• Deck Addition
• Kitchen Remodel
• Home Office Remodel

If you are thinking about performing a few jobs around your house to increase your resale value in Wake Forest NC you might want to take a look at the 2009-2010 Cost vs. Value Report.

If you are interested in placing your home for sale in Wake Forest NC I would be happy to review the report with you and how the improvements you may have made you your home have been impacted.  Remember, a professional Realtor® will prepare a detailed Market Analysis for you which will include updates and upgrades that you have done before listing your home!

Feel free to check out my website at www.wakeforesthousechick.com for some great tools in helping you to prepare your home for sale in Wake Forest NC!

Fantastic Traditional Home in Established North Raleigh Neighborhood!

Gorgeous traditional is located in Kingsmill Village in Raleigh NC - fabulous established neighborhood conventient to shopping, dining and all major traffic artieries.

Of all the homes for sale in Raleigh NC this is one you just can't miss! First floor has formal living room and dining room, family room with fireplace and screened in porch overlooking fenced back yard! Family room and screened in porch are wire with Dual Zone Surround Sound. Kitchen has solid surface counter tops, stainless steel appliances, plenty of cabinets and ample pantry. Crown moulding is throughout the entire first floor of this home and architectural columns adorn the formal dining room adding flair.

Master bedroom on second floor is HUGE with two walk in closets and a gorgeous master bath with dual vanities, soaker tub and oversized separate shower. All bedrooms are generous with large closets and the bonus room has builtins.

Storage abounds in this home with floored attic space, overhead platform storage in garage, walk in closets in two of the bedrooms and so much more!

Come see all that 6012 Bramblewood Drive has to offer - it is an amazing home at an incredible price!

If you are searching for homes for sale in Wake Forest NC or other areas of the Triangle feel free to visit my website, http://www.wakeforesthousechick.com. You can also give me a call at 919.649.6128 or simply send me an email - I would be delighted to help you in your search!

Check out this homes YouTube Video Tour

More pictures and Details for 6012 Bramblewood Drive

My Website

Selling Your Home in Wake Forest NC? Here's How I Can Help!

So many times potential sellers want to try and sell their home themselves (FSBO - For Sale By Owner) Why is that? Well, I have found, more often than not, that it is because sellers sometimes aren't quite sure what a professional Realtor® can do for them.

A professional, equipped and skilled Realtor® will assist you with a wide range of skills and aid you in making invaluable decisions during the real estate transaction. While the following list is by no means inclusive of all of the significant services a Realtor® will provide it is an outline of how you can most certainly benefit from employing a professional:

• Pays for all marketing and advertising costs. Be sure to ask your Realtor® for their marketing plan.
  
• Adds experience and expertise in all aspects of the sales process including, but not limited to marketing, negotiations and more.
  
• Brings a network of known, trusted real estate professionals. If your Realtor® doesn't have the answer, he or she likely knows someone who does.
• Always has your interests in mind so you always have someone on your side. Ask your Realtor® what the difference is between Seller's Agents vs. Buyer's Agents!
  
• Handles and advises on all price and contract negotiations. A competent Realtor® will have prepared a rock solid CMA that will assist you with arriving at a List Price. For more information regarding CMAs/Market Analysis you can check out this post.
  
• Gives an unbiased, realistic view of your home and your options. Unlike buyers and sellers, an agent has no emotional attachment to property. It is important to listen to your Realtor® when discussing the highlights and potential short-comings of your home.
  
• Being an objective liaison, potential buyers are more likely to tell your Realtor® the truth about your home, even if it is unflattering. This un-biased viewpoint will help you make the necessary changes to get your home sold.
• Your time is valuable. A Realtor® allows you to spend your time how you want.

Selling your home in Wake Forest NC can be a tricky and sensitive process. Most times it is best to remove yourself from the front line and allow an experienced and qualified Realtor® handle the process.

If you are currently contemplating selling your home in the Wake Forest NC Real Estate Market I can help! I would be happy to meet with you and review your options, current market conditions and my marketing plan with you. I am just a phone call away at 919.649.6128 or you can simply send me an email.

Remember, I live, work and play in Wake Forest NC - I know this market better than anyone! And, don't forget to check out my website, www.WakeForestHouseChick.com for some incredible tools you can use when preparing to sell your home!

Latest FHA Rules Update!

New FHA rules in a nutshell

1. Changes are effective for case numbers assigned on or after April 15th, 2010.
2. New upfront mortgage insurance premium (UFMIP) will be 2.25% for all purchase and refinance loans.
   
3. The premium for H4H and HECM is 2.0%. H4H = Hope for Homeowners HECM = Reverse mortgages
4. This change applies to all standard FHA Single Family Programs except the following: Title I, Section 247-Hawaiian Homelands, Section 248-Indian Reservations, Section 223e-Declining Neighborhoods or Section 238c-Military Impact areas in Georgia and New York.

New Wayfinding Signs in Wake Forest NC

What's going on in Wake Forest NC with all the signs?

Wayfinding Signs!

Over the next few week you will see these gorgeous AND informational signs popping up all over Wake Forest NC. These highly anticipated signs will help to attract people to historic downtown Wake Forest NC businesses, help people, well, find their way AND will also include Welcome Signs for the downtown area.

While these signs will certainly be popping up in Downtown Wake Forest you will also see them on US 1A, NC 98 Hwy Business and many local streets. There will be approximately 15 signs in all!

Life in Wake Forest NC just got a little more direction.....

How To Prevent Frozen Water Pipes

Water pipes are extremely vulnerable when the temperatures plummet as they have this last week in Wake Forest NC. The extended forecast shows even more colder than normal temps in the days ahead. Here are some great tips to help you prevent your water pipes from freezing AND what to do if the water pipes DO freeze!


Prevention:

• Insulate pipes in unheated areas paying attention to pipes that run along the floors, ceiling and outside walls (don't forget the garage!)
• Disconnect any garden hoses.
• Be sure to seal any foundation cracks that you may have that would allow cold air into crawlspaces.
• Open cabinet doors under the kitchen sink and bathroom vanities.
• Let a small trickle of water flow from your faucets during the extreme cold.
• Keep all exterior doors to unheated areas CLOSED! (utility rooms, garage, exterior yet attached storage rooms)
• If you are going out of town be sure to have a neighbor check on your water pipes while away.
• If you are going to be gone for an EXTENDED period of time or you have a vacant property you should have the water pipes drained.

After the Fact: (frozen but not burst)

• SHUT THE WATER OFF!
• Be sure to familiarize yourself with shutoff valves.
• Never try to thaw a pipe with an open flame or torch.
• Turn up the heat in the house to warm the surroundings (if an inside pipe)
• Infrared lamps can help to heat up a pipe.
• A hair dryer can be used to warm up the frozen area of the pipe.
• Heat lamp or portable heaters.
• Electric heat tape applied to frozen pipe.

A frozen water pipe can spell disaster should it burst. If you are in need of advice for water damage you can check out a post I have on What's Your Circa - while the post may have been written during hurricane season it still addresses water damage regardless of the cause.

Water Damaged Historic Homes - What to Do.

Stay warm my friends! It's COLD in Wake Forest NC!

Revisit Kensington Manor - New Price! 4bd/3.5bt, 3c Gar and POOL!

Wake County Schools - Early Departure EVERY Wednesday!

Beginning this 2009-2010 school year, all Wake County Schools will have Early Departure EVERY Wednesday. Early Departure is not to be confused with the already scheduled Early Release days that are built into the school calendar.

Early Departure (ED) was created to provide the teachers with additional time to colloborate and discuss ways to improve individual student performance. ALL Wake County students will be released one (1) hour early on Early Departure Wednesdays.

Early Release (ER)is dedicated to providing teachers with time for PLC (Professional Learning Community). ALL Wake County students will be released 2.5 hours early on Early Release Wednesdays.

For a copy of the ER and ED days please click here.

A special note to all of my blog subscribers that have kids in the YEAR ROUND schedule - SCHOOL STARTS TOMORROW!

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Written by:
Leesa L. Finley, Broker, Realtor®
Circa Properties
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All content, including text, original art, photographs and images, is the exclusive property of Circa Properties, and may not be used without the expressed written permission of Circa Properties. All information is believed to be accurate but is not warranted, Copyright 2009.

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