Date Archives: August 2022

Whether you're looking for outdoor activities or just a chance to get back to nature, there's nothing like a day at the lake. Spend some time this summer at these wonderful lakes that are just minutes away from Raleigh homes for sale. 

• Pullen Park - 520 Ashe Ave., Raleigh, NC 27606
  Is it an amusement park? Is it a green space? As the first public park in North Carolina and the fifth oldest amusement park in the country, pet-friendly Pullen Park is a delightful blend of both. As many as 10,000 people visit each day for activities such as traveling across beautiful Lake Howell in a pedal boat. Kids love riding the carousel and Pullen Park Caboose, an authentic train car. Get a workout at the aquatic center and tennis courts, or nurture your creative spirit with programs at the Pullen Art Center. Park hours are dawn to dusk, seven days a week.
  
  
• William B. Umstead State Park - 8801 Glenwood Ave., Raleigh, NC 27617
  When one lake just isn't enough, head to William B. Umstead State Park. With not one but three lakes, there are lots of opportunities for boating and fishing. An extensive network of hiking and biking trails circles the lakes, so you can enjoy the views from several vantage points. The Crabtree Creek and Reedy Creek sections include picnic tables and grills under a soothing canopy of trees. Crabtree also has two reservable picnic shelters that accommodate up to 100 people. Bring Fido along, as leashed dogs are welcome. Park hours are 8 a.m. - 8 p.m. daily, and admission is free.
  
  
• Shelley Lake Park - 1400 W. Millbrook Rd., Raleigh, NC 27614
  If you're looking for a quiet spot to relax and reflect, head to Shelley Lake Park. Boats are not permitted on the water, creating a peaceful ambiance as you and your leashed dog hike the two miles of paved trails around the lake. Fishing is allowed, and there is a playground and a basketball court for the kids. Shelley Lake Park is home to the Sertoma Arts Center, which features exhibits and classes in a variety of media. Hours are 7 a.m. - 8:30 p.m. daily.
  
  
• Durant Nature Preserve - 8305 Camp Durant Rd., Raleigh, NC 27614
  Before the city purchased Durant Nature Preserve in 1979, it served as the headquarters of the Occoneechee Council of the Boy Scouts. Summer camps are still held there, but the pet-friendly preserve is open to the public for all to enjoy. In addition to two lakes with hiking trails along the shores, the preserve has a bird garden, butterfly garden, and interpretive tree trail. Check out a Discovery Backpack at the visitor center to learn more about animal tracking and other topics. Durant Nature Preserve is open from 7 a.m. - 7:30 p.m. daily.
  
  
• Lake Wheeler Park - 6404 Lake Wheeler Rd., Raleigh, NC 27603
  In 1956, the namesake body of water at Lake Wheeler Park was constructed for water supply. Today, it serves double duty as a site for boating and fishing. A playground and sand volleyball court provide lively dry-land fun. Leashed dogs are permitted in the park. Hours are 6 a.m. - 8 p.m. daily. Admission is free, but there is a boat launch fee of $5 for city residents and $7 for non-residents.

Raleigh is truly a city for all seasons. Contact us at Howard Perry and Walston for cheerful and experienced help from our real estate agents. 

A functional and beautiful outdoor space can help make your summers more enjoyable, and when it comes to creating the perfect outdoor oasis, hardscaping has a big role to play. Our real estate agents always make it a point to invest in new outdoor elements that enhance the outdoor experience. New hardscaping not only helps to improve your home value, but it can also be aesthetically pleasing.

Below, we'll discuss the importance of hardscaping and how you can use it to make the most out of your yard this summer.

What Is Hardscaping?
Hardscaping is a term that describes any man-made outdoor elements, such as sidewalks, stairs, patios, retaining walls, outdoor kitchens, and more. It's basically a term used to describe landscaping elements that are not plants. Hardscaping can be used to expand your living space, guide outdoor traffic, or increase the overall functionality of your yard. It's also very low maintenance!

Hardscaping Tip
Good hardscaping requires a lot of time and planning, but the end result is often well worth the investment. Here are some hardscaping tips to make your project a success:

1. Always Evaluate The Space
   Before starting any hardscaping project, you'll want to make sure the space can support your vision. Therefore,  it's important to conduct a thorough analysis of the space. You'll want to consider the type of soil, the quality of the drainage, and the shape of the terrain before you begin building. Make sure you always measure the space.
   
   
2. Supplement With Greenery
   It's easy to get carried away with hardscaping, but man-made elements shouldn't be the dominant theme of your outdoor space. Make sure you're keeping greenery in the picture. Whether it's flowers, shrubs, or potted plants, make sure there is plenty of plant life around.
   
   
3. Stick To A Consistent Theme
   When hardscaping, you'll want to choose colors that match your home's exterior to create a seamless transition from indoors to the outdoors. Also, be sure not to go overboard. Try to keep it simple and stick to one or two textures across all your hardscape elements. For inspiration on beautiful hardscaping themes, take a look at a few of these Raleigh homes for sale.
   
   
4. Keep Things Balanced
   Humans find real beauty in balance and symmetry, so keep this in mind when you're planning new outdoor elements. Use repetition when adding rocks, boulders, decor, or other elements. Make sure your items fit nicely within the natural space of your yard. Don't be afraid to add curves to your sidewalk or build a non-traditionally shaped patio.
   
   
5. Consult A Professional
   Great hardscaping can be difficult to create. While it can make for a fun summer DIY project, you shouldn't be afraid to consult with a professional. If you're really looking to boost your home value, hiring a professional can really pay off.

Whether you're looking to create a new space for entertaining guests or your own private oasis, hardscaping is a great investment. Contact us today for more ideas about how to improve your outdoor space.