Date Archives: April 2020

While the current COVID-19 crisis has upended life as we know it, many people are finding creative ways to help out their neighbors and show that they care. Several people have reached out to our real estate agents, asking what they can do to support our local community. 

If you want to make a contribution to medical professionals and others who need personal protective equipment (PPE), you may consider joining the many Americans who are making homemade face masks to help stop the spread of this virus. One of the best ways to do this is to join the national group called "Face Mask Warriors."

How to Work With Face Mask Warriors 

The North Carolina branch of this group has over 2,500 followers on its Facebook page. Request to join the group, and you can learn more about the project and connect with other like-minded individuals. 

If you're ready to jump in, visit their website. From here, you can request information regarding how to donate completed masks or learn more about how to volunteer to create masks, caps, or gowns. They'll provide you with the patterns and, if necessary, they'll also give you the materials you'll need. When you've completed your projects, you can either drop them off at a designated location or request that they come and pick them up from your home. 

Currently, the group has donated masks to UNC Health and is gathering a collection for Glenaire Retirement Community in Cary. This organization is currently looking for about 300 adult-sized masks for their residents. Other organizations can also request masks on the Face Mask Warriors website. As stay-at-home orders begin to be lifted, it's likely that the need will continue to increase.

Don't Sew? You Can Still Help!

Even if you don't sew, you can still join the group and help out. They also need people to drop off and pick up materials and completed projects. You could also donate materials or volunteer the outside of your home to be a designed drop-off point. 

The completed masks and other PPE are being donated to health care facilities, certain hospitals, and other organizations that need them. Note that not all organizations are accepting homemade masks, so it's best to join a group like this one to ensure that your efforts are as effective as possible. 

During these uncertain times, it's easy to feel helpless. However, taking steps like this can make you feel more in control while also helping to make the world a better place. 

Your Raleigh Real Estate Professionals

Have you been thinking about buying or selling a home when things get back to normal? The good news is, you don't have to wait! We're still showing Raleigh homes for sale and helping our clients reach their real estate goals. Contact us today to learn more and get started. 

Here at Coldwell Banker Howard Perry and Walston, we continue to make the safety and well-being of our agents and clients our top priority. We will work to ensure that all possible safety measures and precautions are being taken. We are committed to maintaining reliable service to our clients while doing our part to limit the spread of the COVID-19.

With that said, real estate is still moving as we are now in the midst of the spring market. There is still a demand for real estate and we are still here to help!

Our agents will be hosting virtual tours for their numerous open houses this weekend so be sure to check them out! For even more virtual tours of our listings, head over to hpw.com/virtual.

Featured Virtual Tours

103 Buckner Lane, Chapel Hill, NC 27517

$895,000

Sq Ft: 4,333 | Beds: 5 | Baths: 4 (full) 1 (1/2)

1405 Barony Lake Way, Raleigh, NC 27614

$2,450,000

Sq Ft: 9,684 | Beds: 5 | Baths: 6 (full) 3 (1/2)

123 Old Larkspur Way, Chapel Hill NC 27516

$614,900

Sq Ft: 3,900 | Beds: 4 | Baths: 3 (full) 1 (1/2)

1909 Cadenza Lane Raleigh, NC 27614

$1,260,000

Sq Ft: 4,950 | Beds: 5 | Baths: 4 (full) 1 (1/2)

115 Briery Branch Court, Morrisville, NC 27560

$870,000

Sq Ft: 6,387 | Beds: 4 | Baths: 4 (full) 1 (1/2)

3708 Knollcreek Drive, Apex, NC 27539

$629,900

Sq Ft: 3,761 | Beds: 5 | Baths: 4 (full) 1 (1/2)

117 Jasmine Drive, Clayton, NC 27527

$1,300,000

Sq Ft: 6,800 | Beds: 5 | Baths: 5 (full) 1 (1/2)

5101 Doughtymews Lane, Fuquay Varina, NC 27526

$775,000

Sq Ft: 4,879 | Beds: 4 | Baths: 4 (full) 1 (1/2)

During tough times, our Raleigh community comes together. Our real estate agents are proud to call the Raleigh area home and are determined to spread some kindness across the community. Here are some simple random acts of kindness you can complete in the Raleigh area to help others during these difficult times. 

• Donate to or Volunteer at a Food Bank - Food Bank of Central & Eastern North Carolina, 1924 Capital Blvd., Raleigh, NC 27604
  With people shut in and low on funds, it's difficult for them to maintain healthy eating habits, especially if they have kids. Food Bank of Central & Eastern North Carolina is continuing to serve local residents in need while following CDC's best practices. You can help by donating funds, holding a virtual food drive or volunteering with a self-scheduled shift on the website. The Raleigh distribution center is open weekdays from 8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m.
  
  
• Adopt a Rescue Animal - SPCA of Wake County, 200 Petfinder Ln., Raleigh, NC 27603
  SPCA of Wake County is working hard to care for these animals until they can be rehomed. The shelter is currently closed, but the organization is accepting applications and conducting phone meetings so you can reserve the pet of your choice until adoptions resume. Each day at 2 p.m., a staff member conducts a Facebook Live event where you can view the dogs and cats currently available for adoption. If you're not in a position to adopt, consider a financial donation toward SPCA's expenses.
  
  
• Support Healthcare Workers - Duke Health, 1233-D Front St., Raleigh, NC 27609
  Healthcare workers such as those in the Duke Health system are working tirelessly around the clock to care for patients. They desperately need supplies such as N95, surgical and looped masks along with sealed boxes of gloves and eye protection. With blood bank supplies running low, healthcare providers are asking for healthy people to become donors. Finally, you can make a financial gift to the Duke COVID-19 Response Fund for research and testing. Donated supplies can be dropped off at the Raleigh location from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. weekdays.
  
  
• Send Greeting Cards to Nursing Home Residents - Capital Nursing and Rehabilitation, 3000 Holston Ln., Raleigh, NC 27610
  Extra precautions are being taken to protect people in nursing home and long-term care facilities who are more vulnerable to health risks. Sadly, these people are feeling even more isolated from friends and loved ones at a time when they need support the most. Take a few minutes to brighten the day of patients at places such as Capital Nursing and Rehabilitation with a cheerful greeting card. Be sure to call the facility first and ask about any special procedures they may have regarding cards and delivery.
  
  
• Help Neighbors
  Lending a helping hand to neighbors in need is a great way to lift the spirits of everyone involved, especially if you know any healthcare providers, first responders or elderly people. Here are just a few ideas of how you can assist those around you: mow the lawn; shop for groceries; pick up prescriptions; babysit; walk dogs; give restaurant or grocery store gift cards; share supplies; call or text just to say hi.

Howard Perry and Walston is proud to be part of such a caring and supportive community. Contact us for more information about Raleigh homes for sale. 

Scientific studies show that gardening burns calories lowers blood pressure, relieves stress, and elevates your mood. Our real estate agents love to unwind working on their gardens. Plus, it's a great way to enjoy the North Carolina sunshine while practicing social distancing.

Starting a garden of your own is super easy. Use these five tips to start a thriving vegetable garden in your own Raleigh backyard.

1. Decide on a Location
   First, look for a spot where the garden will receive at least eight hours of daily sunlight. Plants also need plenty of moisture, so make sure the garden will be close to a ready source of water, such as a faucet or hose. Stick with areas away from trees, shrubs, and other large growth that may steal valuable resources from the plants.
   
   
2. Select a Garden Type
   Planting seeds directly in the ground isn't the only way to create a garden. Depending on the type of soil and other factors, that method may not even be the best way. Container gardens and raised beds are two options that allow you to control the type of soil used. They're also good choices if you're dealing with limited space.
   
   According to The Old Farmer's Almanac, the biggest mistake made by beginning gardeners is being overenthusiastic. It's better to start small and expand later rather than bite off more than you can chew (no pun intended).
   
   
3. Choose Your Crops
   Deciding what to plant is the fun part. Fortunately, the Raleigh area is well-suited for growing most fruits and vegetables, so the main factors are your taste and the appropriate growing seasons, which are either spring or fall. Some of the fruits and vegetables that do well in Raleigh include asparagus, broccoli, cantaloupe, kale, onions and peppers, spinach, tomatoes, and watermelon. If you have the space, include herbs such as basil, cilantro, dill, and parsley that add color and flavor to cooking.
   
   
4. Plan and Design the Garden
   In the legend of Johnny Appleseed, he scattered seeds randomly wherever he went, but that technique doesn't work in real life. Elements to consider include when to plant when to harvest, which plants will go in which section and how the garden will be organized (for instance, will be using intensive planting where rows are spaced close together). Once you've answered these questions, you'll have a better idea of the quantities required of seeds and other supplies.
   
   It's a good idea to keep a gardening journal where you can document the entire process. With future gardens, you can refer back to the journal and see what worked and what didn't. Also, crops should be rotated regularly for best results, and a journal will help you keep track of what was planted when and where.
   
   
5. Plant the Seeds
   Even if you're using intensive planting, be sure to allow enough room for the seeds to grow freely with sufficient airflow. Stagger planting dates in one- to two-week intervals, so you have a continual harvest. Keep the soil damp until plants are well-established, then water as needed. A layer of mulch improves water retention while reducing weeds and soil erosion. Fertilize based on recommendations for the type of soil, but be careful not to overdo it, which could inhibit production.

Raleigh homes for sale should look as good outside as they do inside. For more effective tips on buying or selling a home, contact us today.

Here at Coldwell Banker Howard Perry and Walston, we continue to make the safety and well-being of our agents and clients our top priority. We will work to ensure that all possible safety measures and precautions are being taken. We are committed to maintaining reliable service to our clients while doing our part to limit the spread of the COVID-19.

With that said, real estate is still moving as we are now in the midst of the spring market. There is still a demand for real estate and we are still here to help!

Our agents will be hosting virtual tours for their numerous open houses this weekend so be sure to check them out! For even more virtual tours of our listings, head over to hpw.com/virtual.

Featured Virtual Tours

301 Highwood Pines, Cary, NC 27519

$725,000

Sq Ft: 4,755 | Beds: 5 | Baths: 5 (full)

400 Westwood Drive, Chapel Hill, NC 27514

$1,350,000

Sq Ft: 3,379 | Beds: 4 | Baths: 3 (full) 1 (1/2)

106 Arrowstone Court, Morrisville, NC 27560

$869,900

Sq Ft: 4,635 | Beds: 4 | Baths: 5 (full)

2901 Market Bridge Lane, #105, Raleigh, NC 27608

$460,000

Sq Ft: 1,487 | Beds: 2 | Baths: 2 (full)

115 Burgundy Lane, Chapel Hill, NC 27516

$865,000

Sq Ft: 4,027 | Beds: 5 | Baths: 4 (full) 1 (1/2)

5360 Cypress Lane, Raleigh, NC 27609

$575,000

Sq Ft: 2,470 | Beds: 4 | Baths: 2 (full) 1 (1/2)

108 Balsam Lane, Clayton, NC 27527

$325,000

Sq Ft: 1,823 | Beds: 2 | Baths: 2 (full)

If you favor a home that's brand new or want to customize as many of the home's details as possible, you might want to consider purchasing a new construction property. A new construction property allows you to be the first person to live in the home. Know what to expect with a new construction property with these 5 things listed below. 

1. The Current Status of the Home
   New construction homes come in a variety of options. It's possible to start with bare land, design every element of the home, and have the builder construct the property according to your specifications. Another type of new construction allows you to choose from a set of different home designs and finishes; while you can still customize the home, your options might be limited. One more alternative is a home that's mostly built but permits the buyer to pick out some of the finishing details, like the flooring, paint colors, and countertops. Generally, the more you customize a home, the longer it will take to build. Keep your moving timeline in mind when checking out Raleigh homes for sale. 
2. Whether the Builder Will Handle Any Exterior Projects
   Pay attention to the home's exterior and ask the builder what, if any, projects they plan to complete for the property's outside space. It's not uncommon for a builder to forgo planting flowers, adding trees, and seeding a lush, green lawn. If you're responsible for these items, you'll need to make sure the work and associated costs are manageable for your budget and schedule.
3. What Warranties Come with the Home
   Most local new construction homes come with some type of warranty that guarantees the quality of the work. There will likely be a warranty for the materials used to build the home and coverage that warranties the actual construction of the home. Various components typically have different lengths of coverage. For example, the HVAC system may be covered for a few years, while the roof may be covered for 10 years.  Make sure that you're comfortable with the terms of the warranty and what the warranty actually covers. 
4. The Builder's Reputation
   Before you commit to a specific builder, make sure you thoroughly research the builder's reputation. Not all home builders are created equally. Some builders strive to get homes built as quickly as possible, while others place a premium on constructing quality homes. Ask the builder for references and use online review sites to read reviews from previous customers. Take note of how the builder responds to negative reviews. Does the builder ignore them or do they offer a response that tries to help the customer with their complaint? Look for a builder that treats all customers, even disgruntled ones, with respect.
5. The Future of the Neighborhood
   If a home is one of the first properties in a new neighborhood, it can be tricky determining the ultimate direction and atmosphere of the neighborhood. Will the neighborhood consist primarily of single-family homes, or will condos and townhomes also be built? Talk to the builder that's handling the area's new construction to get a better idea of what the neighborhood will be like when construction is complete. 

If you're ready to start looking for your dream home, call our real estate agents today. Contact us to get started.

Let's face it, your home is probably the most significant investment you'll ever make. Ultimately, you want it to be a space you are your family will enjoy for years to come.

Thanks to virtual tours, homebuyers are able to tour many properties without leaving their comfy couch. Making home buying options seem endless!

And with so many options out there, how do you know that you've found "the one"?

Think you've found the perfect home for you among the many Raleigh homes for sale? 

Follow these signs, to determine if that home you just virtually toured is the one!

1. See the Real Picture

   When you view the home, you instantly feel a spark. Everything about the house fits into your idea of a perfect home. Sure, there might be things you want to change, but you come up with solutions rather than focusing on the negatives.

2. "Ticks All The Boxes"

   Before you started touring available homes in the area, you probably thought of a list of must-haves for your new home. For example, you might need a home that has 3 bathrooms. If a home ticks all those boxes (and then some) you may have found the one!

3. Budget

   Sometimes, your dream house won't fit your budgetary allocation. Be realistic with what you can afford. 

4. Other Homes Can't Compare

   Truth be told, you feel entirely satisfied with this house, and other properties can't sway your decision. Maybe you've even canceled other tours you had scheduled. In fact, you're intent on making an offer and may already be eyeing the paperwork rather than touring other available homes.

5. Location

   Arguably, location is the most critical factor when you're looking to purchase a perfect home. Accordingly, you have to consider your neighborhood, the surrounding amenities, health, and school facilities, transportation, grocery stores, banks, etc. If the neighborhood checks all your boxes as well, that's a good sign! 

6. Aesthetic Ideas

   Have you started imagining yourself making improvements to the house? Are you considering how a different color shade would look on the walls? Or you may be visualizing the furniture arrangement for each room. If you're already thinking of design ideas, it's a sign that you're looking forward to making this house yours!

7. You Can't Stop Talking About it

   You feel like the search is over, and you can barely wait to tell your family and friends about it! Or maybe you've already told them about it and won't stop talking about it. If you can't wait to show them the home in question and you're already making moving plans—you've found your dream home.

8. That Homey Feeling

   Does the house feel like home? That's a sure sign the property is suitable to live in, and you'll be happy with your investment.

Looking for a house can be exciting and equally overwhelming. And with so many property options to pick from, it can be challenging to choose. Our REALTORS® can assist you in navigating the real estate market during the house hunting phase and facilitate the buying process. Contact us today to get started!