What to Ask Yourself When Buying Homes or Condos in North Carolina

Purchasing a home or condo along North Carolina's Crystal Coast is not only an investment, but for many homebuyers, a dream. Coastal Carolina is an ideal place to call home and this fall, the local real estate market is making it easy to land a great deal on a fantastic property. 

However, if you're unsure if now is the right time for you, these 3 questions can help you decide about timing your purchase in Emerald Isle, Atlantic Beach, Morehead City, Beaufort, Newport, Havelock, Cape Carteret, Swansboro or Pine Knoll Shores.

Ask: Why am I buying a home?

When you know your main reason for purchasing a new home on the Crystal Coast, you can move forward. Set your finances aside for a moment and get down to the basics. A few strong reasons might include: 

• A good place to raise your family
• School districts
• A place where you feel welcome, at home, or safe
• More space
• More control over your home

Ask: Where are mortgage rates going?

Mortgage rates are a huge factor to consider when buying a home or condo in North Carolina. But you're in luck! Right now, mortgage rates are lower than they have been in over a year. 

Ask: Where are home values going?

Another important factor to consider if you'll be selling your current property in Emerald Isle, Atlantic Beach, Morehead City, Beaufort, Newport, Havelock, Cape Carteret, Swansboro or Pine Knoll Shores. Home values will continue to rise as we move forward— experts suggesting by 4% in 2015. By 2018, cumulative appreciation may range from 11 to 19 percent.

As your local real estate experts in Coastal Carolina, Gena Gilbert Real Estate is here to help you find the best home at the best possible price. Contact us today to see what's available in your area!

Gena Gilbert

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Mortgage Rates Down, Great Time to Buy a Crystal Coast Condo!

Homebuyers are constantly looking for the best time to make a move, curious about how to time the local real estate market just right. Well, the look is over. The time is now! Current market conditions, including the current mortgage rates now at historic lows, have paved the way for Coastal Carolina homebuyers to purchase their dream home!

Mortgage rates have just taken a tumble and in fact, haven't been this low since June 2013. This week marked the fourth straight week for declines, meaning now is more affordable than it has been in over a year to buy a home or condo.

But mortgage rates aren't the only reason why Crystal Coast homebuyers should take advantage of current real estate market conditions. Housing prices are also rising and will continue to do so over the next five years.

If you're a Crystal Coast home seller, this could mean great news for the success of selling your home at a great price. On the other side of the real estate fence, North Carolina homebuyers looking to find the best deal or purchase a home at a lower price, should act now!

According to the Home Price Expectation Survey, including over 100 economists and market analysts, home values will appreciate anywhere from 11.2 percent and 27.8 percent over the next five years.

Gena Gilbert Real Estate can help you take advantage of this exciting window of opportunity in the Crystal Coast real estate market! With mortgage rates this low, waiting no longer makes sense— contact us today to find the perfect waterfront home or condo in Emerald Isle, Atlantic Beach, Morehead City, Beaufort, Newport, Havelock, Cape Carteret, Swansboro and Pine Knoll Shores.

Gena Gilbert

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How Your Crystal Coast, North Carolina Home Can Make You Happier

After a long day, who doesn't want to come home to their Crystal Coast oasis and unwind? If your home already lifts your spirits, then you're already ahead. However, if you think your North Carolina home could use a boost of happiness, the following tips can help you make it happen:

Light
Natural light can make anyone smile, so decide how you can let more into your home in Atlantic Beach, Beaufort, Morehead City, Havelock, Newport  Throw open the curtains and soak up the sun, even allowing the sun to fill all corners of the room is a great health booster. The sun can help dry up excess moisture and create an overall calming space.

Color
If you live on the Crystal Coast, maybe colors with a nod to the ocean have taken precedence in your home. Calming blues and light greens are perfect for a Coastal Carolina home and even if they are only touches of color, they can instantly elevate your mood when you walk in the door. Using color in a conversational space like the living room is ideal as it tends to prompt interaction. 

Scent
Living so close to the water, especially if you're in a waterfront condo or home, can welcome that calming scent inside. Scent is strongly linked to emotion and can significantly affect the current emotions you're feeling. But regardless of where you are along the Crystal Coast, keep in mind that smells like lavender and jasmine, basil and mint can lift your mood.

Plants and Pets
These two factors tend to give a property the feeling of home. Pets are comforting, but if you can't have one, plants are also a great idea. Taking care of something and watching it grow is relaxing and has been known to evoke happiness, not to mention they add character to your home.

I'm here to help you find the Coastal Carolina home that makes you happy! Contact me today for a list of available waterfront condos, homes as well as other properties in the area. 

Gena Gilbert

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Crystal Coast Real Estate Rules for Making an Offer

It may be the end of the summer, but North Carolina homebuyers are still motivated to purchase properties before the fall rolls around. If that's you, it's important to work with your local real estate agent (the team at Gena Gilbert Real Estate can help!) and remember these rules for making an offer on a Coastal Carolina home:

Be respectful and likable
Your offer on a home for sale is a representation of you— so present your best self. You don't want to say anything negative that might turn off a home seller or make unreasonable requests like a super fast closing date.

Don't lowball and don't overreach
There's a fine line when it comes to the price you should offer a home seller. It's best to ask your real estate agent for advice and remember to avoid putting in a lowball offer that might insult the seller. It's also just as crucial not to overreach with an offer you can't afford just to beat out the others.

Be prepared
Before you start your home search for condos in Atlantic Beach, Beaufort, Morehead City, Havelock, Newport  it's wise to get pre-approved. This way, you'll be prepared to buy and ready when a seller accepts your offer. When you put in an offer on a Crystal Coast waterfront home or condo, be ready for a yes— if it's a no, you can always restructure your offer or keep hunting.

Keep yourself in mind
With a market brimming with motivated homebuyers, some are waiving the home inspection just to get their offer approved first. However, you don't want to sabotage yourself. Keep in mind your own best interests— with your agent's help, you can find a strong offer that works for both you and the seller.

Contact Gena Gilbert Real Estate today for a list of available homes in Atlantic Beach, Beaufort, Morehead City, Havelock, and Newport that meet your wants and needs!

Gena Gilbert

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More Homebuyers Looking for North Carolina Condos

While the sales of existing homes have been rising recently, there is another type of property that is peaking Coastal Carolina homebuyer interest— condos.

According to the National Association of Realtors, single family home sales have risen slightly month-to-month this year, but condo sales have seen a spike of over 7 percent. Comparing these two increases with last year's numbers, you will find single family home sales were actually down 7 percent, while condo sales fell flat. It's a significant jump in popularity for both types of North Carolina homes, but condos are coming out ahead.

"We are beginning to see people liking more closer-in developments," said an economist for the National Association of Relators. "The baby boomers who are looking to trade down, they are looking for condominiums. Many of the younger people, if they can qualify to buy, they are looking into the condominium style of living, compared to single family with backyards."

These increases in single family and condo sales come at a time where more Crystal Coast homebuyers are found to be looking at easier living, more often in what are characterized as the suburbs or "exurbs." More Americans are streamlining their finances and their home choices are reflecting that. They're moving to areas like Emerald Isle, Morehead City, Havelock, Beaufort, Atlantic Beach for not just a more relaxed lifestyle, but for condos or homes that allow them to build long-term wealth with Crystal Coast real estate, but also save while doing so.

The median price for a condominium, nationwide, has been lower than single family home prices, according to the NAR. However, last month did see a jump— perhaps due to a stronger demand for the properties.

This summer, the local real estate market will likely see more home sales, many of them condos, as North Carolina homebuyers get the itch for new scenery and change in surroundings, but into a property that makes sense for them and their finances. We will likely see many Crystal Coast homebuyers choosing condos or townhouses.

"It's in the conforming mortgage limits, and people can get into those homes easier," said one East Coast builder.

Contact us today for a list of homes for sale along the Crystal Coast of North Carolina. Whether you're looking for a single family home, condo or townhouse, we're happy to help find a property that works for you!

Gena Gilbert

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Getting Your North Carolina Home Ready for Storm Season

April showers may be proverbially behind us, but storm season is just around the corner! And no matter if you're just settling into your Coastal Carolina homes for the summer or preparing to sell your current Crystal Coast home, these tips will come in handy for keeping your property safe.

Trim Your Trees
Start outside with the yard. One of the biggest causes of damage (and one of the most expensive) during storm season are tree branches, so take a look at those outside your Coastal Carolina homes. Trim any loose branches that you can see and inspect those near your home to ensure their stability. "Your homeowner's insurance policy will generally cover damage to your home caused by trees, but it usually pays no more than $500 to $1,000 for tree removal," reported one risk consultant. "Even though it can cost a few thousand dollars to clean up a fallen tree."

Clean Your Gutters
Move next to your gutters to remove any leaves and debris that may be inside. These items can clog the gutters and send water pouring down the side of your house or even under your roof. While you're doing this, check for any cracks that could allow water into your home and patch them if found. If you happen to spot any damaged or missing shingles on the roof, you can save yourself a headache later by replacing them before storm season is underway.

Secure a Backup System
With a lot of rain, Crystal Coast homeowners will be reminded how important it is to have a sump pump in place— especially if your basement is finished. Think of the damage that could arise from having your sump pump suddenly stop working in the middle of a storm or downpour. Your homes in Atlantic Beach, Emerald Isle, Beaufort, Morehead City could see water damage and potentially not be covered by insurance. Make sure you have a backup battery for your sump pump in case the power goes out or consider investing in a second sump pump for extra security.

The Crystal Coast of North Carolina is a great place to relax this summer and enjoy easy, beach living! Take these steps now to avoid any problems that could arise with your homes in North Carolina and ensure smooth sailing for the entire season. Ready to move to a new home this summer? Contact us today to discuss how we can help!

Gena Gilbert

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Time to Sell Your Crystal Coast, North Carolina Home!

The weather is heating up on the Crystal Coast and the summer months will soon be here! But that's not the only thing gaining speed this season, homebuyers are starting to come out in full swing ready to purchase new homes in Atlantic Beach, Morehead City, Emerald Isle, Beaufort, and Cape Carteret. As a North Carolina home seller, it's a smart decision to consider selling now. Here are four major reasons to list your home now to take advantage of all of the homebuyer activity:

Sellers in Demand
With more homebuyers entering the local real estate market, homes for sale on the Crystal Coast are in demand. Many home sellers are gaining confidence, but they are outnumbered by the amount of buyers ready for a busy spring and summer buying frenzy. These homebuyers are looking to find their perfect Crystal Coast homes and yours could be it! List your home now and attract Coastal Carolina buyers while they're serious about purchasing North Carolina real estate.

New Construction Coming Back
In past months, home sellers did not have to compete much with new construction homes in the area. But that has recently changed! Builders are now jumping back in, housing starts are up and new construction is once again available to provide homebuyers with a shiny, new option for easy living on the Crystal Coast. Home sellers, you may want to think about selling before new construction becomes the favorite in real estate.

Interest Rates Rising
Interest rates and housing prices have been rising for some time and now is no exception. Many experts predict, by this time next year, rates will have reached 5 percent. In fact, all four major housing insiders (Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, National Association of Realtors, and Mortgage Bankers Association) have numbers projected as high as 5.4 percent. No matter if you're moving up in terms of Coastal Carolina homes or downsizing, it's obvious that buying a new home next year will wind up costing more than if you acted upon moving right now.

Time for a Change
It's a new season and many homeowners (and buyers!) are ready for a change in scenery. One of the greatest reasons you should consider a new home comes down to the money you'll save in the long run if you act now. The journey all begins will selling your current Crystal Coast home and I would love to discuss how I can help! 

Gena Gilbert

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Celebrate Spring and Enjoy Local Cuisine on the Crystal Coast, NC

It's April and spring is here on the Crystal Coast of North Carolina! As we head into the spring and summer months, it's a great time to get out and explore areas like Atlantic Beach, Morehead City, Emerald Isle, Beaufort, and Cape Carteret. Here are a few local, food-centered events to kick off the new season on the Crystal Coast, including the popular Toast to the Coast Restaurant Week.

Toast to the Coast Restaurant Week
Through Saturday, April 5, 2014
Now through April 5, enjoy the best of award-winning Crystal Coast chefs at this Semi Annual Toast to the Coast Restaurant Week. No tickets necessary, simply head to your favorite participating restaurant and select the Toast to the Coast menu. Each menu will include a three course prix fixe meal for $25 per person. For participating restaurants, visit toasttothecoast.org.

North Carolina Oyster Tour
Through Friday, April 4, 2014
This event is held along with Restaurant Week and guests can enjoy appetizers at three area restaurants where the spotlight in on local oysters! You can see the different ways oysters are prepared and listen to stories about Beaufort's history and oyster traditions. When the tour is up, each couple or participant will go home with one dozen oysters, wrapped in a fish net from the original Net House in Beaufort. At $69 per person, this event includes a guide, samplings of food, select drinks, and your local North Carolina oysters to go.

First Annual "Shrimp Off" at Core Sound Water Fowl Museum
Saturday, April 5, 2014; 6 PM to 8 PM
Another opportunity to enjoy the local cuisine of the Crystal Coast— join the fun at Core Sound Waterfowl Museum in Harkers Island for the 1st Annual Shrimp Off! Guests will learn more about local commercial fisherman and celebrate the North Carolina love for shrimp. You can find the Core Sound Waterfowl Museum at 1785 Island Road in Harkers Island, NC. 

Beaufort Olive Oil Company Luncheon
Saturday, April 12, 2014; Noon
Circa 81 is hosting a Beaufort Olive Oil Company luncheon, featuring three courses that will include various oils, vinegars, salts, and other samplings offered at the Beaufort Olive Oil Company. The cost of this event is $25 per person and advance reservations are required.

Gena Gilbert

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Tax Breaks for Crystal Coast, North Carolina Homeowners

It's tax season again on the Crystal Coast! If you're a homeowner in areas like Atlantic Beach, Morehead City, Emerald Isle, Beaufort, and Cape Carteret, you won't want to miss out on the tax breaks associated with purchasing real estate. In fact, many homeowners overlook such tax write-offs like mortgage interest and property taxes. 

And while your taxes may have to get difficult to completely take advantage of homeowner benefits, with the tips below, you won't miss an important tax write-off again.

Mortgage Interest
According to MSN Real Estate, the biggest tax break you will see involves your house payment every month and for most homeowners, the bulk of that goes directly to mortgage interest. "All that interest is deductible, unless your loan is more than $1 million," they reported. 

More deductibles can come in the form of money you pulled out through refinancing or from when you decided to get a home equity loan. If you have equity debts of $100,000 or less, these are fully deductible for tax purposes.

What's more, if you own a second homes in North Carolina, or multiple properties, your mortgage interest on these homes is also fully deductible. But beware, warns MSN Real Estate, "If you don't vacation at least 14 days at your second property, or more than 10 percent of the number of days that you do rent it out (whichever is longer), the IRS could consider the place a residential property and ax your interest deduction."

Property Taxes
Another mortgage deduction comes from property taxes. For most monthly mortgage payments on Crystal Coast real estate, a major part is dedicated to taxes and goes into an escrow account for a yearly payment. If you've been a homeowner for some time, this amount will be found on the annual statement you get from your lender and will be a deduction for as long as you own Crystal Coast real estate.

If you're new to the homeowner circle and have just purchased a home on the Crystal Coast, you can find tax payment information on the documents you received at closing. 

When You Sell Your Home
Planning to sell your homes in Atlantic Beach, Morehead City, Emerald Isle, Beaufort, and Cape Carteret this year or have just sold your home? When you move to a new home on the Crystal Coast, you'll be able to avoid a portion of taxes on the profit you make. In past years, the law was changed so that up to $250,000 in sales gain ($500,000 for married couples) is tax-free so long as you owned the home for two years and lived in it for two of five years before you sold.

But, if you sell the home before you meet these residency requirements, you will indeed owe taxes on the profit.

Gena Gilbert

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