Only The Best Real Estate Agents

Author: Benjamin Williamson

  • Buying a Home in Wilmington

    Buying a Home in Wilmington

    Real Estate Trends: Why it is a Great Idea to Buy a Home in Wilmington NC

    One of the most commonly asked questions when it comes to Wilmington real estate is whether it is better to rent or to buy a home. Of course it all depends on your real estate goals and your financial ability, but if you can afford to buy a home you should absolutely do it, and here is why:

    •    Interest rates are only going to keep rising, Although the Wilmington real estate market is strong, rising interest rates have a major effect on housing and the overall affordability of owning a home.  so if you lock down a deal right now you will have done well for yourself.

    •    Lenders are more cooperative now. After the economy crashed lenders were reluctant, and only those with near perfect credit scores were able to get loans. However, today things are more relaxed, and you can easily get a loan to buy a home in Wilmington.

    •    Real estate values in Wilmington are on the rise, so this makes it the perfect time to buy a home. Whether you are looking for a primary residence or a second home, you can be sure that you will sell it at and make a neat profit in the future.

    •    The economy is on the mend. People are now earning more, which means that the real estate market is only going to get better. If you wait too long before you buy a home you will pay more.

    •    Sellers have become more realistic. In the past you would find sellers asking for large sums for small properties. Today, home prices are more indicative of real value than ego.

    •    Wilmington is a great city to live in. if you buy right you will enjoy a great neighborhood, great people, good entertainment and lots more.

    tips for taking advantage of the real estate trends
    tips for taking advantage of the real estate trends

    Tips for snagging a great home in Wilmington NC

    Yes, you want to buy a home, but you don’t want to buy just any home. If you want to get one that you will love living in there are certain things that you need to do. The first is to define your real estate goals.

    What kind of a home do you want to live in?

    How many bedrooms and bathrooms do you want?

    How big should your kitchen be?

    Deciding on all these things helps you come up with a budget. You should look into your income realistically to determine what you can and cannot afford – too often people take on mortgages only to give them up because they cannot afford them. It is better to buy a smaller home that you can comfortably pay for, than to buy a big one that will stress you financially.

    Make sure that you have a great real estate agent on board. Buying a home is a complicated process and although you may be tempted to go it alone and save some money you shouldn’t – even one mistake can end up costing you a lot. Find yourself a real estate agent who is familiar with the area where you plan to buy and who has experience and smarts.  Make sure they set you up on a property search that will email you all of the active listings.

    Choosing the right agent is important — but generally wont cost you a penny.  Real estate agents are paid out of the commission from the seller!  This means that you can pick the BEST real estate agent in North Carolina and pay the same amount as using a rookie agent….ZERO.

  • The 11 Steps to Closing on Your New Home

    The 11 Steps to Closing on Your New Home

    The 11 Steps to Closing on Your New Home

     

    So, you have found the right real estate agent and you have been reviewing listings from all over the internet.  Now that you have found the property that you will call home – the real work begins.

     Searching for homes for sale is the fun part, the below steps to closing on your new home will help you avoid any costly mistakes in your home purchase.  It it is important to be familiar with the steps that are involved in the closing process of the transaction – this way you will know what to expect, and should things start to go wrong you can steer them right.

    closing on your new home
    closing on your new home

    The Steps To Closing

     

    1. Have Your Agent Write the Purchase Agreement – The purchase agreement is the document that lays out the details of the offer.  The purchase agreement is a legally binding document and lays out the price you will be paying for the property as well as the length of time for inspections, the closing date, financing options and more.  Once all parities sign the purchase agreement, any changes to that document must be made by an addendum to the contract – and also signed by all parties.  The top real estate agents are very skilled at drafting these documents as they are the glue that hold the entire real estate transaction together.
    2. Choose a Title Company – A title company, sometimes called a closing company, plays the roll of facilitating the real estate transaction.  They will be the “middle man” between the buyer, the seller, the lender who is financing the home and the insurance company.  They will also complete a title search on the property to insure that the home is able to be sold.  Lastly, they will take the money from the lender (at closing) and will disperse the funds to all of the appropriate parties.
    3. Get a Professional to do a Home Inspection.  When you write your offer, you will will have a pre-determined time frame for completing any inspections that you choose.  This inspection period lets you dig a little deeper to make sure the home has no major defects.  They will be looking for things like insect infestations and mold. They will also do an overall inspection of the home to ensure that it is solid. If you are buying a waterfront home, you will want to check the bulkhead.  If the inspections reveal that there are underlying issues, this is the time to negotiate on the price. Just because a home is listed “as is” does not mean that the seller cant (or wont) make repairs.  In lieu of repairs, you can also ask for a direct reduction of the sales price. 
    4. follow the steps to closing
      follow the steps to closing

      Review Condo Docs – If you are purchasing a condo, you will want to review your condo documents.  The condominium documents go into great detail on how the condo association is run as well as how much the condo association has in reserves and other critical documentation.

    5. Order the Appraisal – Almost all real estate transactions are predicated upon the home being purchased appraising at the sales price or higher.  The appraisal is generally ordered by the lender.  The appraisers job is to find the true value of the home and to protect you from overpaying for the property.  
    6. Get Insurance Quotes – You will want to price out homeowners insurance for your new home.  Depending on the area, you also may be required to obtain flood insurance.  Once you get the best prices, make sure to provide your title company with the insurance companies you have chosen.
    7. Get Documents To Your Lender – This is one of the most important aspects of buying your new home.  We can not stress enough that you need to get your lender ALL of the information they request in a timely manor.  In some instances, they may even request documents that you feel to be sill — but get them the documents anyway!

      prep for closing day
      prep for closing day
    8. Remove any other Contingencies. When your agent wrote the offer, the purchase of the home was most likely contingent on several things – getting an affordable interest rate, no problems revealed by the inspection, the seller disclosing any problems with the home, repairs and so on. All these contingencies must be removed or met prior to closing. 
    9. Review Closing Sheet or HUD – Based off of the recent changes implemented by the CFPB, you should receive your final closing statement at least 3 days prior to the Act of Sale.  This gives you some time to review all of the final closing numbers.  These should be the exact same number that you will see the day of the closing.  The closing sheet will also tell you how much money you will be required to bring to the closing table.  Make sure that you get certified funds as most title companies will not accept personal checks.
    10. Final Walk Through – The day before (or possibly the day of the closing) you should complete a final walk through.  This lets you make sure that the property is in the same condition as when you made the offer.  In some instances, you may also be verifying that work was completed from the property inspection.  
    11. Show Up For The Closing!  This is the final day!  Show up a few minuets early and be sure to bring a state ID.  Sign the papers and get the keys to your new home!

     

    All that you have to do now is to move into your new home. Don’t forget to change the locks!  Congratulations!

     Video On The Closing Process

  • Wilmington Real Estate

    Wilmington Real Estate

    Wilmington NC

    Wilmington is located in the coastal southeastern part of North Carolina and has a population of 112,067. In addition to being one of the hottest real estate markets around, Wilmington is one of the south’s biggest vacation destinations- with something to do for everyone in the family:

    Things to do in Wilmington

    Visit Airlie Gardens; stroll along the pedestrian friendly Riverwalk lined with shops and cafes; dock your boat at Port City Marina; hop aboard a water taxi to the famous World War II Battleship, the North Carolina; take a scenic cruise or sightseeing tour; explore the city’s National Register Historic District, which spans 230 plus-blocks filled with churches, classic architecture, moss draped live oaks, brick lined streets and antebellum homes. It’s all here in Wilmington. A beautiful vacation destination but an even better place to call home.

    Wilmington is a large metropolitan real estate market and includes many smaller areas.  With the Greater Wilmington area including many niche real estate markets — we will cover some of the most popular.

    Real Estate in Wilmington

    Pleasure Island

     

    Pleasure Island is one of the close knit communities of Carolina Beach and Kure Beach. This area offers affordable home prices and activities for the whole family.

    Located at the southern tip of Wilmington, Fort Fisher is nearby where you can catch the ferry for a day in Southport to take in some rich history or just relax on the beach with the family. The undeveloped north end of Carolina Beach offers a rustic beach option for those who like to drive up to the shore and take their furry friends along too. You can build campfires, have parties and even pop up your tent and spend the night.

    Real Estate Statistics

     

    The median home price in this neighborhood runs around $276,000. In the first half of 2017 prices decreased 39% from the first half of 2016. This raised the sales a whole 30%. Neighborhoods in this area are growing rapidly, making it the perfect area to raise a family with plenty of great schools and kids to play with on your block.

    Wilmington Riverwalk

     

    Wrightsville Beach

     

    Retirees are drawn to the small-town beach community of Wrightsville Beach and the surrounding conveniences of the city of Wilmington, just five miles away. The well-preserved atmosphere of Southern charm, family values, and exclusivity enhance the rich natural splendor of the island.

    Indeed, the natural beauty and serenity of Wrightsville Beach make it a crown jewel on the Carolina coastline. The temperate climate, laid-back pace, and gorgeous sunrises are also a big selling point for those seeking an idyllic location in which to enjoy their golden years.

    During summer months, temperatures usually fluctuate between the 80s and 90s, with July being the hottest month.

    Living in Wrightsville Beach

     

    During the short winter, temperatures average in the 40s but sometimes dip into the 30s. The rest of the year means pleasant, mild temperatures in the 60 to 70-degree range.

    While Wrightsville Beach hasn’t sustained significant damage from a hurricane since 1999, you should be aware that it can potentially lie in a storm’s path. For retirees who still have four-legged children at home, pets on leashes are permitted on Wrightsville Beach during the off season (October 1-March 31).

    In short, Wrightsville Beach is a treasured oceanfront community where one can enjoy retirement (and beach living) at its finest: inviting waters, soothing sands, picturesque surroundings, a strong community, and all of the amenities that Wilmington and New Hanover County have to offer.

     

    North Topsail

     

    Located at the Northern end of the island and located in Onslow County, North Topsail is known as “the quiet end” of the island. Many amenities are sprinkled throughout the town, such as the neighborhood park, which boasts a picnic shelter, volleyball, basketball, and tennis courts, a nature trail, rest room facilities and a gazebo with a breathtaking view of the sound. The tip of the island is a popular fishing area and beautiful golf courses are minutes away.

    Topsail Beach

     

    Topsail Beach is the smallest of the three communities located on the island. High-rise development is not allowed, beautification is encouraged, and conservation of the island environment is a top priority.

    Topsail Beach truly has a family oriented, small town feel – from its old-fashioned roller skating rink above the post office to its many ice cream shops. This ocean community is also home to waterfront dining, gift shops, a fishing pier, bookstore, and several businesses.

    Top Real Estate Agents in Wilmington

    Anytime we do a write up on the real estate market we look to see who the movers and shakers are in that area.  We understand that there are over a million real estate agents in the US and very few that you should rely on to assist you in buying or selling a home.  We try to focus on ONLY the Best Real Estate Agents. It wasn’t easy to figure out who the most respected REALTOR in Wilmington is — Buddy Blake.  Its important to recognize, we are not paid for this — simply pointing out facts.

    Get In Touch

    Do you think YOU are a Top Real Estate Agent?  Do you think you make the cut?  Fill out the form below to find out!

     

    Become ONLY The Best Real Estate Agent
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  • Career Change?

    Career Change?

    Career Change? Becoming A Real-Estate Agent!!

    Thinking of being a real-estate agent, however do not know where to begin? Initially, you would need to determine if this sort of profession is the ideal one for you. Many people normally believe that to be an effective real-estate agent, you just have to convince individuals to buy residential or commercial properties and houses. Great interaction and persuasion skills are, obviously a plus, however that is not all. You likewise require to recognize with the industry and get the proper licensing. Real estate representatives ensure that the purchasers would have the ability to discover their dream houses, while sellers get their home’s worth. It would take the ability and mastery for you to become effective in this career, similar to any type of occupation. You would require proper training and education. There are various institutions that use courses for those who wish to enter the real-estate industry. Typically, states would need an ambitious real-estate representative or sales representative to invest about 30 to 90 hours class education. A high school diploma is a requirement and a minimum of 18 to 21 years old. Before ending up being a true real-estate agent, states would require a license to operate. You would require to pass a licensing examination. Representatives are required to restore their license every 2 years but it still depends on the state. You would also have to go to seminars even if you are already accredited. The real-estate market is continuously progressing or changing which requires continuing education. A real-estate agent should always know changes in laws and policies in the state where they are located. But taking up real-estate courses are not the only thing that would prepare you for the market. It is advised that you deal with a mentor broker for about 2 to 5 years to get experience. It resembles apprenticeship. After that amount of time, you might begin thinking about establishing a specific practice.

     

    Technical requirements like coursework and license will equip you, however it is your attitude that will assist you become successful in your field. As a real-estate sales representative, you require to be friendly. You would be working with various type of people, not just the purchasers and the sellers. A real-estate agent will also work with lending officers, lawyers, home loan brokers, insurance coverage company agents and even land-use officials. A real-estate agent is on call for 24hrs/7days a week. Customers would typically call an agent throughout the time when they are offered, requesting for updates or guidance. Flexibility is another quality you would require to establish. Customers could be a problem for starting agents. You would require persistence given that it would require time before you have your very own customer list. Another concern for genuine estate representatives is the earnings. Many experts would suggest that those who are only beginning to find out the market need to have an alternative income. But if you are selling multi-million worth of homes everyday, then you would not have any issue with earnings at all.

    But success will certainly come if you strive and learn from every step you take in the industry.

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  • The Benefits of a Realtor who Understands Technology

    The Benefits of a Realtor who Understands Technology

    Benefits of Having a Realtor, who understands technology

    Lets face it, the internet has changed the way real estate operates.  The web has changed the process for both home buyers and home sellers.  Technology has done quite a number on Realtors also.  Keep in mind that historically, Realtors were generally an older group.  As a general rule, you don’t see a huge influx of younger people starting out in real estate.

    Because the average Realtor age is much older than the average in the workforce, many Realtors today have had major challenges grasping the new world of technology.  When the web really influencing real estate, there were still some power player agents, that dominated their markets, simply from reputation and referrals.

    The Passing of the Guard

    As that group of Realtors got out of the business, either retired or passed away, we were left with a bunch of agents that didn’t really understand the new way of doing things.  Many Realtors fought the internet every step of the way claiming they didn’t need it or couldn’t learn in.

    Today, you have three groups of real estate agents.

    Struggling Agents

    Many Realtors today are struggling.  They did not grow up with technology, not sure how to use it – but fully understand that they need to.  These are the agents that are trying to keep up – but find it extremely difficult to master new real estate technology.

    Their personality makes them want to use the same tools everyday.  They feel comfortable with that.  But they understand that they MUST learn technology to stay viable.  These agents also get very frustrated upon a critical technology piece, such as the MLS, upgrades and “moves their cheese”.

    The No Tech Realtor

    They still have some of these left.  These are the agents that learn the bare minimum to keep them afloat, but absolutely no more.  These are the Realtors with the 6 year old iPhone.  They sometimes take three rights to make a left, but they eventually get there or ask someone for help.

    For many of the NO-tech Realtors – because they have had years of success (before the internet changed the role of the Realtor) – they can afford to have an assistant.  For these agents, their assistant handles all of their technology issues and lets the agent do their thing.  For these, their days are numbered.

    Finally… The Tech Savvy Realtor

    The tech savvy real estate agent could be old or young, but they embrace technology.  They look forward to releases of real estate technology that they can benefit from.  They generally have a great website that ranks well and are doing different types of digital marketing. This is the type of real estate agent you want if you are buying waterfront property.

    This is the type of Realtor you want to sell your home.  They leverage all of the available technology to come up with the best price.  They are constantly looking for new and fresh ways to use digital marketing to get an edge over the competition in the competitive world of real estate.

    Why You Need a Great Realtor

    A large quantity of trust is had to work with a real estate agent. Choosing the right agent From young families buying their first home to sellers want to insure they  have priced their beloved home properly.  Realtors have a fiduciary duty to their clients.  That essentially means that they must put your financial well being above their own. hey are working with an individual who is working in their best interest.

    Since it is often hard to establish a sense of trust with an individual that you cannot communicate with, choosing the Tech Savvy Realtor will insure that your agent is available by email, text, instant message…hell you can reach them on Twitter if you want!

    Why a Website Matters

    A great real estate website is also critical when choosing the right agent to represent you.  Your agents website will ultimately be where may potential home buyers go to see your property for the first time.  If you are buying a home, you want your Realtor to be able to provide you with the best tools fore searching for homes for sale.

    A good real estate website will provide you important insight into the personal life.  It should discuss their training, what designations they may have and where they are on their continuing education.

    Transaction Management

    The website should be able to track your real estate transaction. All of the forms that you sign should be neatly organized there.  In addition, from the Realtors perspective, their site creates the real estate forms as well as the electronic signature.

    .Technology is designed to make things easier.  If you don’t have an agent that is leveraging technology in their favor, you need a new agent.

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  • Why Panama City Beach? Tell Me All About It

    Why Panama City Beach? Tell Me All About It

    Panama City Beach

    Panama City Beach is a very popular vacation destination in northwest Florida. It’s a waterfront town with miles of white-sand beaches fronting the calm, clear waters of the Gulf of Mexico. There are hiking trails, fishing piers, large shopping centers and many popular restaurants. If you’re looking for a place to plan your next beach vacation, Panama City is a great place to bring the whole family!

    Places to Stay in Panama City Beach

    If you’re just in town for the weekend- there are many 5 star hotels in the area. Expect the best! Panama City Beach hotels give you great rooms and southern hospitality with a smile. Hotel parking is always free here, and most hotels offer airport transportation.

    There are lots of ways to stay when you’re in town, but hotels give you some of the luxuries you won’t find elsewhere: concierge services, wake-up calls, housecleaning, swimming pools, tennis courts, and best of all- your very own private beaches within walking distance! A few offer spas, golf courses and even restaurants on site. Whether you’re looking for a cheap room with just the basics, or an ideal resort for relaxation- Panama City will have something to fit your needs.

    If you’re the type to “rough and tough it” There are a few Campgrounds and Rv Parks available also. Whether you’re camped in the wilderness of St. Andrews State Park or parking it like a boss in a modern RV park, if you like waking up to beautiful nature all around you, camping and RVs are the way to go.

    Panama City makes the great outdoors… greater. You’ll not only be close to nature, but also close to amenities that make any vacation a little easier and lots more fun. Most parks can handle any size RV or trailer. They offer pull through and back-in spaces. You can pick a secluded site, or be apart of the community with shared BBQ pits, picnic spots, rec rooms, pools, playgrounds and more. If you’re not interested in sleeping without power, a few RV parks offer convenient power hook ups just for you! Talk about WIFI at your fingertips!

    Vacation Rentals in Panama City Beach

    panama city beachOne of our favorite options for Panama City Beach is the plethora of vacation rentals.   Most of the vacation rentals you would rent in PCB are condominiums that are owned by people who utilize them for their own vacations, but rent them out to others year round.

    There are tons of condo options in Panama City Beach – with most of them being located directly on the beach. You’re just a few sandy steps away from the world’s most beautiful beaches. It’s not too good to be true. The best part of choosing a rental is it offers all the comforts of your home. Most offer washers and dryers, full kitchens, and everything you need for cooking and dining.

    For families and groups, there are many of vacation rentals in Panama City Beach with four or five bedrooms to spread out. Or you can bring your significant other and stay in a private romantic retreat. Most vacation rentals are right on the beach, so you can bring the whole family out and play some volleyball or take a walk while the sun is setting with that lucky someone.

    Things to do in PCB

    Obviously you’ve come into town for the beautiful sugar white sand beaches, but there is much more to do than building sand castles! There are tons of fun-filled attractions from dancing the night away at one of our 21 and older nightclubs or playing mini golf with the kids! The best part of the nightlife is that no-one expects you to get all dressed up, khakis and flip-flops will do just fine.

    We’ve got some hot spots where the party never stops- clubs like Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge (sister club to Nashville’s work famous honky-tonk) and Cub La Vela the biggest nightclub in the US. Plus smaller spots like Ms. Newby’s and Pineapple Willy’s. If you’re into a more laid back scene, lounges like Schooners and Spinnaker Beach Club offer live music and delicious foods too. If you’re taking the kids out on the town there are plenty of places for that too.

    For the Family

    Panama City Beach attractions for kids will earn a special place in your heart- that place reserved for tons of fun without long lines or sky high prices. They have two giant mazes, a petting pool with stingrays, a four story science puzzle paradise- and this is just a fraction of what they have to offer. If you have older kids, there’s always Shipwreck Island Water Park.

    It’s a very popular water park with lots of slides for everyone to enjoy, If you want to learn while you’re in town there’s a whole world of arts and culture left to discover. There are plenty of ways to get your creative juices flowing, like painting masterpieces you can take home with you, or enjoying a night at the theater. For a limited time, take part in Beach Art Group’s Art Walk too, it’s full of rich culture and literature.

    We welcome you and your family to Panama City Beach with open arms, and we hope you’ll come back year after year to enjoy everything there is to offer!

    Explore Panama City Beach

     

    Looking to buy a home in Panama City Beach?  Check out the Best Real Estate Agent in Panama City Beach and his top listings.

     

    Worth with ONLY the Best Real Estate Agents in YOUR Local Market.