1. Replace burned out bulbs.
   This is huge. Because you live in your home, you have likely become less alert to stuff you see every day, including the third bulb that burned out over the lavatory mirror 6 months ago. Take an admirer or family member who doesn’t live with you through your home and see if they notice any burned out bulbs that you have possibly missed. Burned out bulbs mean lack of maintenance to a home buyer and may cause them to think they will be doing a heap of fixing before moving in.
   
   
2. Remove excess huge furniture.
   Another epic mistake most do-it-yourself home owners make when staging a house is leaving their giant furniture sets in every room. Massive furniture can dominate any room, especially smaller rooms, thus consider taking away any of the non-essential pieces. This will surely accentuate the home’s square footage.
   
   
3. Avoid mixing dark furniture and poor lighting.
   Dark furniture can be equally harmful as large furniture. Dark furniture pulls the eye towards it rather than allow your gaze to wander smoothly. Unless your home has many expansive windows that allow in lots of sunlight, avoid dark furniture.
   
   
4. Detach yourself from your home.
   Detaching yourself from your home is terribly difficult, especially when the home was custom builty; however, it’s better to develop a thick skin about your home so you can stage it to appeal to as many buyers as possible. One key facet to detaching yourself from your home is to remove photos of family and personal items that may hold sentimental
   value. When you show your home, the focus must be the home. Potential buyers want to see themselves in the home, not you.
   
   
5. Raise the bar on your windows, literally.
   Low sitting windows with drapes can make ceilings appear lower than expected. Raise the bar above your window and mount it nearer to your ceiling to give the impression that the ceiling is higher.
   
   
6. Clear away ‘catch-all’ stations round the home.
   Everything has a place and typically that place is all in one spot. Occasional shelves,
   
   
   kitchen counters, and tables by the front door are highly visible locations that tend to end up covered in mail, keys, and random travel belongings. Clearing away these areas is vital for creating an inviting space.
   
   
7. Get a pressure washer and wash away the weather.
   Your home’s exterior bears the burden of making the first impression that can build or break a buyer’s interest in your home. Several times I have toured homes with purchasers who refused to go into a home as a result of a poor outward appearance. Buyers do not want to buy another person’s problem. Rent a pressure washer from a local home improvement or rental store, or higher a professional to do the job. Spray down the outside of the house. Pay special attention to the corners of the home which will harbor generations of spider webs, insects and grime.

Understanding the Prime 7 Must-Do’s of Home Staging can help you avoid costly staging mistakes and help sell your staged home faster than competing homes on the market.

The Cameron Team

Melanie Cameron, Broker 910.233.2840

Susan Harkins, Buyer Specialist, 910.431.2362

Michelle Roberts, Buyer Specialist, 910-431-5686

Alexa Winstead, Marketing/Closing Coordinator 910.202.2547

Diligently working to exceed real estate expectations in Wilmington, NC and surrounding areas including Ogden, Porters Neck, Wrightsville Beach, Carolina Beach, Castle Hayne, Leland, Burgaw and Hampstead.

See more pictures of 1407 Amhearst Court.

Property Details

Active

Stonington

$225,000

Listing Information

• MLS ® : 453210
• Bedrooms: 3
• Full Baths: 2
• Half Baths: 1
• Sq Ft: 1892
• Lot Size: .21
• Garage: 2 Car
• Heat Source: Electric

Property Description

Located in the quaint community of Stonington, this one of a kind home offers an open, spacious floor plan with cathedral ceilings, hardwood floors, formal dining room, a great room with a fireplace and spacious screened porch and fenced yard for family fun and entertaining. The XL master suite has a jacuzzi tub and separate shower and all three bedrooms are upstairs. There's a separate well for irrigation of the front and back yards. Located on a quiet cul-de-sac street you'll love the location and convenience of being so close to area shopping.

The Cameron Team

Melanie Cameron, Broker 910.233.2840

Susan Harkins, Buyer Specialist, 910.431.2362

Michelle Roberts, Buyer Specialist, 910-431-5686

Alexa Winstead, Marketing/Closing Coordinator 910.202.2547

Diligently working to exceed real estate expectations in Wilmington, NC and surrounding areas including Ogden, Porters Neck, Wrightsville Beach, Carolina Beach, Castle Hayne, Leland, Burgaw and Hampstead.

Quote of the Week:

You can teach a student a lesson for a day; but if you can teach him to learn by creating curiosity, he will continue the learning process as long as he lives.  ~Clay P. Bedford

Local Market Statistics

There are currently 5002 single-family homes for sale in New Hanover, Pender and Brunswick Counties.  In the last 6 months (03/05/10-9/01/10), 2207 homes have sold.  These numbers indicate that if NO other homes are listed for sale that there is approximately 13.5 months worth of inventory.

During the last week (8/25/10-9/01/10):

• 120 Homes were listed FOR SALE
• 80 Homes went UNDER CONTRACT
• 91 Homes SOLD
• 217 Homes FAILED to SELL (Withdrawn or Expired) **This is higher than normal due to mid-year expireds.

Please note all of these statistics are based on single-family residential homes for sale in New Hanover, Pender and Brunswick Counties.

In case You Missed It

Wednesday, August 25th was the first day of public school in New Hanover County. The Star News reported that enrollment was higher than expected.

Located in the quaint community of Stoneybrook off of Middle sound Loop Rd, this 3 bedroom, 2 bath home has plenty of space to spread out and entertain family and friends. Hardwood floors are in the kitchen, formal dining room and the family room which is highlighted by the gas log fireplace. There's a HUGE 22 x 21 bonus room over the 2-car garage that could be an office, playroom, 4th bedroom or all of the above. The property backs up to a natural wooded setting allowing for privacy and the covered rear porch is perfect for relaxing after a long days work. The wired workshop is the perfect man cave for the handy man or woman in the family. Minutes to area marinas, beaches, shopping and dining just add to the appeal of this wonderful home. a one year home warranty is also included for added peace of mind.

The donation is TAX DEDUCTIBLE. The amount needed (15 to 35 lunches) varies from Saturday-to-Saturday, so please call to see what days they need to fill. The main contact for the food committee is Cathi Anderson. Please call her at 910-228-3625 if you are able to donate.

Thanks!

The Cameron Team

Melanie Cameron, Broker 910.233.2840

Susan Harkins, Buyer Specialist, 910.431.2362

Michelle Roberts, Buyer Specialist, 910-431-5686

Alexa Winstead, Marketing/Closing Coordinator 910.202.2547

Diligently working to exceed real estate expectations in Wilmington, NC and surrounding areas including Ogden, Porters Neck, Wrightsville Beach, Carolina Beach, Castle Hayne, Leland, Burgaw and Hampstead.

Happy Monday Morning!

I hope you enjoyed the great weather we had this weekend!  I think cooler temperatures are on the horizon and will be welcomed with open arms in this area considering the heat we've had this summer.

Well, you can't sugar-coat last week's housing reports, but they don't necessarily foretell a "double-dip" recession in real estate. July Existing Homes Sales were off 27.2%, at an annual rate of 3.83 million, well below the expected 4.65 million rate. The months' supply went from 8.9 to 12.5 and there was also a rise in inventories. The truth is, the expectation was a bit high.  An annual rate below 4 million for July makes sense, given that the home buyer tax credit was slated to end in June.  Getting an $8,000 check from the government certainly encouraged lots of people to move up their purchases. For the same reason, experts also predict weak August numbers, but after that, some feel existing home sales will start heading back to about 5.5 million units annually.  For the year, inventories are down 2.0%, while the median price is UP 0.7%.   Interest rates are still at historic lows which continue to make homebuying and refinancing very attractive for consumers.  If you want to discuss your options, give us a call.

Have a great week and remember to call The Cameron Team for all your real estate needs!

Sincerely,
The Cameron Team

Melanie Cameron, Broker 910.233.2840

Susan Harkins, Buyer Specialist, 910.431.2362

Michelle Roberts, Buyer Specialist, 910-431-5686

Alexa Winstead, Marketing/Closing Coordinator 910.202.2547

Diligently working to exceed real estate expectations in Wilmington, NC and surrounding areas including Ogden, Porters Neck, Wrightsville Beach, Carolina Beach, Castle Hayne, Leland, Burgaw and Hampstead.

What You Own is free to use and is compatible with Windows and Mac systems. Download Here.

The Cameron Team

Melanie Cameron, Broker 910.233.2840

Susan Harkins, Buyer Specialist, 910.431.2362

Michelle Roberts, Buyer Specialist, 910-431-5686

Alexa Winstead, Marketing/Closing Coordinator 910.202.2547

Diligently working to exceed real estate expectations in Wilmington, NC and surrounding areas including Ogden, Porters Neck, Wrightsville Beach, Carolina Beach, Castle Hayne, Leland, Burgaw and Hampstead.

Greetings from Wilmington!  I hope you had a wonderful weekend.  Sorry for the delay in getting out my Monday Market Report.  We had internet/email technical difficulties most of the day yesterday.  If you tried to contact me via email yesterday and I haven't responded to you, please resend.  Quite a few of my emails are in la la land!!

We've seen the typical slower time in our market the past few weeks right before school starts.  In Wilmington, the traditional school calendar starts tomorrow and once everyone gets back into a routine, I think you'll see the activity pick back up.  Interest rates are still at record lows so if you are on the fence about buying or refinancing, please let us know and we'll be glad to point you in the right direction.

There are still an increasing number of homeowners that are in financial distress and unfortunately, I think you'll continue to see those numbers rise until the economy and job market stabilize.  To get your home sold in todays market, it's very important to price your home aggressively and get it in tip top shape.  If you have any questions about the market or your home's value, please give us a call or email.  We're glad to help any way we can.

Have a great week!

The Cameron Team

Melanie Cameron, Broker 910.233.2840

Susan Harkins, Buyer Specialist, 910.431.2362

Michelle Roberts, Buyer Specialist, 910-431-5686

Alexa Winstead, Marketing/Closing Coordinator 910.202.2547

Diligently working to exceed real estate expectations in Wilmington, NC and surrounding areas including Ogden, Porters Neck, Wrightsville Beach, Carolina Beach, Castle Hayne, Leland, Burgaw and Hampstead.

Located in the quaint community of Stonington, this one of a kind home offers an open, spacious floor plan with cathedral ceilings, hardwood floors, formal dining room, a great room with a fireplace and spacious screened porch and fenced yard for family fun and entertaining. The XL master suite has a jacuzzi tub and separate shower and all three bedrooms are upstairs. There's a separate well for irrigation of the front and back yards. Located on a quiet cul-de-sac street you'll love the location and convenience of being so close to area shopping.

See more pictures of 16 Wayne Drive.

Property Details

Beaumont/Forest Hills Area

Active

$265,000

Listing Information

• MLS ® : 446530
• Bedrooms: 3
• Full Baths: 2
• Sq Ft: 1981
• Lot Size: .45
• Heat Source: Electric

Property Description

This beautifully maintained brick ranch is located in the sought after Beaumont/Forest Hills area in the heart of Wilmington and across the street from the neighborhood park. The exterior has been freshly painted and the large front porch invites you from the moment you enter the driveway. This functional floor plan features large room, an updated eat-in kitchen with center island and custom cabinetry, beautiful hardwood floors and easy access to the deck and backyard. Ideal for entertaining family and friends this lovely home is also conveniently located minutes to downtown Wilmington, Wrightsville Beach and area shopping and dining.

The Cameron Team

Melanie Cameron, Broker 910.233.2840

Susan Harkins, Buyer Specialist, 910.431.2362

Michelle Roberts, Buyer Specialist, 910-431-5686

Alexa Winstead, Marketing/Closing Coordinator 910.202.2547

Diligently working to exceed real estate expectations in Wilmington, NC and surrounding areas including Ogden, Porters Neck, Wrightsville Beach, Carolina Beach, Castle Hayne, Leland, Burgaw and Hampstead.

Quote of the Week:

“A ship is safe in harbor, but that’s not what ships are for.” -William Shedd

Local Market Statistics

There are currently 5133 single-family homes for sale in New Hanover, Pender and Brunswick Counties.  In the last 6 months (02/19/10-8/18/10), 2207 homes have sold.  These numbers indicate that if NO other homes are listed for sale that there is approximately 14 months worth of inventory.

During the last week (8/12/10-8/18/10):

• 128 Homes were listed FOR SALE
• 68 Homes went UNDER CONTRACT
• 62 Homes SOLD
• 101 Homes FAILED to SELL (Withdrawn or Expired)

Please note all of these statistics are based on single-family residential homes for sale in New Hanover, Pender and Brunswick Counties.

In case You Missed It

The Coast Guard tall ship “Eagle” docked at the North Carolina State Port in Wilmington earlier this month. The Coast Guard provided tours.

To produce the ranking, we divided each school's overall quality score by its average sticker price tuition and fees for 2008. All schools with an actual four-year graduation rate lower than 20% are excluded from the Best Value ranking.

UNCW ranks #17 out of 100 schools. To see the complete list, visit the Forbes website.

The Cameron Team

Melanie Cameron, Broker 910.233.2840

Susan Harkins, Buyer Specialist, 910.431.2362

Michelle Roberts, Buyer Specialist, 910-431-5686

Alexa Winstead, Marketing/Closing Coordinator 910.202.2547

Diligently working to exceed real estate expectations in Wilmington, NC and surrounding areas including Ogden, Porters Neck, Wrightsville Beach, Carolina Beach, Castle Hayne, Leland, Burgaw and Hampstead.

Happy Monday!

I hope you had a wonderful weekend and enjoyed the nice (but hot) weather!  Back to school time is upon us and everyone seems to be gearing up to head back to class.  For me, the summer has flown by!  My babies start kindergarten this year so this summer is bitter/sweet for me!

The stats for July are in and there's a lot to absorb but here goes:

In the month of July we saw a decrease of 125 homes in our listing inventory.  We have 5,604 homes on the market as of August 1st.  This continues to put us in a strong buyers market with a listing inventory of over 16 months.  Our average list price remains below $400,000 and is currently at $377,052 and the average days on the market is at 121 days for July.

The number of sold homes in July was down 32.3% from June and down 22.2% from July 2009.  In June we had 517 sold units and in July only 350.  In July of 2009, we had 450 units sold.  I think much of this can be contributed to the first time home buyer tax credit that ended June 30th.  I think many of the sales that would have been dispersed over the remainder of the year were pushed up to coincide with the tax credit.  The July average sold price was $237,467 which was down .03% from June but up 8.4% from July 2009.

15 and 30 year interest rates are at record lows.  It's a great time to buy or refinance and we're welcome to guide you in the right direction, whatever your plans.  Call us today... you'll be glad you did.  We guarantee it!

Have a great week!

Sincerely,
The Cameron Team

Melanie Cameron, Broker 910.233.2840

Susan Harkins, Buyer Specialist, 910.431.2362

Michelle Roberts, Buyer Specialist, 910-431-5686

Alexa Winstead, Marketing/Closing Coordinator 910.202.2547

Diligently working to exceed real estate expectations in Wilmington, NC and surrounding areas including Ogden, Porters Neck, Wrightsville Beach, Carolina Beach, Castle Hayne, Leland, Burgaw and Hampstead.

The Federal Housing Administration (FHA) provides mortgage insurance on loans made by FHA-approved lenders throughout the United States. FHA loans are available for refinancing and new purchasers. They make the purchase of a first home affordable with a low down payment, which can be as low as 3.5% with minimum credit score requirements.

When a FHA borrower is no longer able to maintain mortgage payments and the property goes into foreclosure, the lender files a mortgage insurance claim and HUD acquires the property. HUD acquired homes are sold strictly as-is and HUD has an as-is appraisal done of the property value before offering the HUD home for sale.

HUD homes for sale are managed by Marketing and Management (M&M) Contractors throughout the country and offered online thru a bidding process. Only real estate brokers registered with HUD can submit an online bid on behalf of an owner occupant or investor purchaser. HUD homes initially offered for sale are only available to owner occupant purchasers who have not purchased a HUD home in the past 24 months and commit to living in the property as their primary residence for a minimum of 12 months.

Some HUD homes located in revitalization areas are offered only to Good Neighbor Next Door Program participants. The Good Neighbor Next Door Program (GNND), also known as the Teacher Next Door Program, is available to teachers (employed as a classroom teacher or administrator grades preK-12), police officers, firefighters and emergency medical technicians. This HUD special program is for 50% off of the list price of HUD homes designated for the program. Some find the most challenging part of buying HUD homes for sale is finding them before they are already sold. Properties available to the general public are typically held open for a period up to 9 days, GNND homes for as little as 5 days, and some properties are offered on a Daily Bid. Availability of properties on a Daily Bid must be confirmed each day.

For advice on purchasing a HUD home and locating a HUD agent, please call Melanie Cameron at (910) 202-2546.

The Cameron Team

Melanie Cameron, Broker 910.233.2840

Susan Harkins, Buyer Specialist, 910.431.2362

Michelle Roberts, Buyer Specialist, 910-431-5686

Alexa Winstead, Marketing/Closing Coordinator 910.202.2547

Diligently working to exceed real estate expectations in Wilmington, NC and surrounding areas including Ogden, Porters Neck, Wrightsville Beach, Carolina Beach, Castle Hayne, Leland, Burgaw and Hampstead.

See More Pictures of 249 Sunset Avenue

Sunset Park

Property Details

Active

$140,000

Listing Information

• MLS ® : 452341
• Bedrooms: 3
• Full Baths: 2
• Sq Ft: 1346
• Lot Size: .17
• Heat Source: Gas

Property Description

This adorable 1930′s bungalow is located in popular Sunset Park right across the street from the neighborhood park. This 3 bedroom, 2 bath home has 1300-1400 SF and all the charm and character you’d expect from a 1930′s home. There is a large screened porch, hardwood floors, a completely renovated kitchen, dining room, fenced yard and deck. Minutes to downtown, shopping, dining and area beaches. You’ll feel right at home the minute you walk in the door. Come see for yourself, you’ll be glad you did.

The Cameron Team

Melanie Cameron, Broker 910.233.2840

Susan Harkins, Buyer Specialist, 910.431.2362

Michelle Roberts, Buyer Specialist, 910-431-5686

Alexa Winstead, Marketing/Closing Coordinator 910.202.2547

Diligently working to exceed real estate expectations in Wilmington, NC and surrounding areas including Ogden, Porters Neck, Wrightsville Beach, Carolina Beach, Castle Hayne, Leland, Burgaw and Hampstead.

Quote of the Week:

“We may run, walk, stumble, drive, or fly, but let us never lost sight of the reason for the journey, or miss a chance to see a rainbow on the way.” – Unknown

Local Market Statistics

There are currently 5120 single-family homes for sale in New Hanover, Pender and Brunswick Counties.  In the last 6 months (02/12/10-8/11/10), 2166 homes have sold.  These numbers indicate that if NO other homes are listed for sale that there is approximately 13 months worth of inventory.

During the last week (8/05/10-8/11/10):

• 111 Homes were listed FOR SALE
• 65 Homes went UNDER CONTRACT
• 42 Homes SOLD
• 91 Homes FAILED to SELL (Withdrawn or Expired)

Please note all of these statistics are based on single-family residential homes for sale in New Hanover, Pender and Brunswick Counties.

In case You Missed It

There was a double rainbow over Wilmington, NC, this week. Picture provided by @g4000 on Twitter.

View from Wilmington Downtown Parking Deck

Happy Monday!

A smaller percentage of U.S. homeowners were saddled with "underwater mortgages" in the second quarter as more homes entered the foreclosure process even as price declines slowed, real estate Web site Zillow.com said on Monday.

The percentage of American single-family homes with mortgages in negative equity fell to 21.5 percent in the second quarter from 23.3 percent in the first quarter and 23 percent a year ago, according to the Zillow Real Estate Market Reports.

These underwater mortgages are one of the biggest banes of homeowners since negative equity makes many of them unqualified for home loan refinancing and prevents some from selling.

It is too soon to say for sure, but this could be the first indication that the national home foreclosure rate is going to start slowing down.  Another quarter of improvement will give us a better indication if this is an actual trend.

On a good note for those that do have some equity in their home it's a FANTASTIC time to refinance with rates dipping well below 5%.  If you need guidance with contacting a reputable lender, give us a call.

Have a great week and remember The Cameron Team for all your real estate needs!

Have An Awesome Week!

Sincerely,
The Cameron Team

Melanie Cameron, Broker 910.233.2840

Susan Harkins, Buyer Specialist, 910.431.2362

Michelle Roberts, Buyer Specialist, 910-431-5686

Alexa Winstead, Marketing/Closing Coordinator 910.202.2547

Diligently working to exceed real estate expectations in Wilmington, NC and surrounding areas including Ogden, Porters Neck, Wrightsville Beach, Carolina Beach, Castle Hayne, Leland, Burgaw and Hampstead.

How a Short Sale Works

In a short sale transaction, a knowledgeable real estate agent asks the seller to provide the required documents-such as income tax returns, closing documents, pay stubs, and bank statements-before listing the property.

Then, through a careful in-depth review of the seller's current financial situation, a logical way to proceed can be set up, paving the way for a successful completion of the short sale. Short sales are a complex process, for both the buyer and the seller.

Next, the real estate agent will discuss the potential short sale with the lender and inform the seller of the results of their collaboration. When evaluating this information, the seller should always be aware that the lender has more control over the process than either the seller or the buyer, and should strive to maintain a courteous relationship with the lender with that in mind.

Note also that the lender and the seller are actually a partnership, because they both have to agree to the buyer's offer in order for the short sale to progress.

"Low Ball" Offers Can be a Problem

In a short sale, potential buyers are usually hoping to find a bargain, and they sometimes make offers that are unrealistically low in comparison with the property's estimated market value. As a result, the lender may determine that it is in their interest to proceed with foreclosure rather than accept the potential buyer's offer. An experienced real estate agent will realize that this is a possibility, and will make a counter-offer to the buyer before presenting the lender with the problematic original offer. Such "low ball" offers are usually considered to be a waste of time for the lender when it comes to reviewing them, and they often cause the lender to delay in responding, in regard to selling the property, or to ignore the offer altogether.

Virtually anyone who has participated in a short sale agrees that dealing with an experienced real estate agent really made a difference in meeting their needs and satisfying their concerns in going through this complex procedure. The lender is also gratified because foreclosure has been avoided and the buyer or seller, have reached their goals.

About the Author

Sally Stribling, REALTOR with Coldwell Banker Schmitt Real Estate company, specializes in the sale of fine Homes and Condos in The Florida Keys. Sally provides buyers and sellers with in-depth professional assistance in the sale and purchase of residential property. If you are interested in buying or selling a home in The Florida Keys, and want the professional assistance of a seasoned expert, who will work diligently in an effort to satisfy your needs, please call Sally anytime at 305-453-7552

Thanks Sally for this helpful article!

The Cameron Team

Melanie Cameron, Broker 910.233.2840

Susan Harkins, Buyer Specialist, 910.431.2362

Michelle Roberts, Buyer Specialist, 910-431-5686

Alexa Winstead, Marketing/Closing Coordinator 910.202.2547

Diligently working to exceed real estate expectations in Wilmington, NC and surrounding areas including Ogden, Porters Neck, Wrightsville Beach, Carolina Beach, Castle Hayne, Leland, Burgaw and Hampstead.

Learn more about the housing aid totalling $600K on Newobserver.com.

The Cameron Team

Melanie Cameron, Broker 910.233.2840

Susan Harkins, Buyer Specialist, 910.431.2362

Michelle Roberts, Buyer Specialist, 910-431-5686

Alexa Winstead, Marketing/Closing Coordinator 910.202.2547

Diligently working to exceed real estate expectations in Wilmington, NC and surrounding areas including Ogden, Porters Neck, Wrightsville Beach, Carolina Beach, Castle Hayne, Leland, Burgaw and Hampstead.

About the Author

Joseph B. Smith has been educating buyers on the finer points of buying foreclosure properties at ForeclosureDeals.com for over ten years. Contact Joseph B. Smith through ForeclosureDeals.com if you need help finding information about buying foreclosure properties.

____________________________________________________________

Thank you Joseph for this great article!

The Cameron Team

Melanie Cameron, Broker 910.233.2840

Susan Harkins, Buyer Specialist, 910.431.2362

Michelle Roberts, Buyer Specialist, 910-431-5686

Alexa Winstead, Marketing/Closing Coordinator 910.202.2547

Diligently working to exceed real estate expectations in Wilmington, NC and surrounding areas including Ogden, Porters Neck, Wrightsville Beach, Carolina Beach, Castle Hayne, Leland, Burgaw and Hampstead.