Add to this great news  all the amenities and attractions our   beautiful Wilmington has to offer: The Historic Riverfront, our exquisite beaches, music, arts, sports, our acclaimed UNCW, the fantastic climate, and a small town friendly atmosphere and you have a surefire winning combination!

Contast us from more info on the investment and relocation opportunities available in our fantastic "hometown" 

www.CoastHomeNorthCarolina.com

"The Best Places To (Still) Invest". For the full report pick up a copy.

November 2006 Business 2.0 Report Researched By Moody's Economy.com

Arriving at a consensus for the 10 strongest markets and then relating the estimated highest appreciation in market values between now and 2011. Percentage figures shown represent Projected Gain In Home Prices Over The Next Five Years.

1. Panama City, FL:                                     +72%

This locale is poised to host big airliners, more visitors - a lot more buyers. Locals expect the new airport planned completion in 2008 to open up the way Southwest Florida International Airport in Fort Myers did for the southwestern coast of Florida.  Property prices are still low by Florida standards, and the local market has already absorbed a price correction.

2. Vero Beach, FL:                            +64%

Balmy weather, low property taxes, and a cost of living 3% lower than that of nearby West Palm Beach makes this coastal town an affordable alternative.  A Florida Atlantic University study says Indian River County and its two closest neighbors will need a projected 154,000 new homes during the next 25 years to house growing population. 

3, Bridgeport, CT:                             +63%

This city's average home prices are severely depressed at $280,000 compared with the county's other large urban areas of Stamford.  But, the wealth is starting to spread as more business is leaving New York for Greenwich and Stamford. 

4. Lakeland, FL:                               +59%

Few places in Florida "scream" that Lakeland is the place to buy as a house now goes for a fifth less than the national medium.  Meritage Homes plans to build more than 1,300 homes in the area in 2008.  This city lies along I-4 where the density of development is beginning to mirror the Dulles corridor in Virginia.

5. McAllen, TX:                                 +57%

Economists confirm that this area has 85% Latino who will soon be trading up. Further there is a housing shortage and pent up demand.  Predictions are that incomes will catch up to the area's economic growth, currently more than double the state average. 

6. San Luis Obispo, CA:                  +40

It is reported that thousands of retirement-agehttp://activerain.com/action/blogs_admin/write/27012 boomers will sell their Southern California homes to move to the cheaper area of San Luis Obispo.  Anti-development sentiment has helped to slow down zoning against a growing demand.  The word is that they will have to allow more homes or prices will go through the roof.

7. Wilmington, NC:      +37% 

Economists report that this locale is the only city of any significant size on the North Carolina coast, and may just be at the beginning of its boom.  It has a seaport, an international airport and major university. 

8. Manchester, NH:                          +35%

New Hampshire has no income or sales tax, and is in commuting distance of Boston. Manchester is the largest city in northern New England; neighbors Nashua which has twice won honors as Money magazine's "best place to live". 

9. Fort Collins, CO:                          +28%

This locale appears time and again on the media's "best place" lists. Colorado has been lagging in housing price in recent years with anemic price appreciation according to economists. 

10. Atlanta, GA:                                +24%

This metro region expected price gain against the market and with a population of over 5 million may be dramatic.  The greater Atlanta region includes 110 municipal governments determined to beat its neighbors in growth.  Commuters are targeting to move inside the I-285 perimeter which is pumping up prices in the more desirable Atlanta neighborhoods.  Economists expect to see the greatest appreciation along the cities southern fringes.

If you planning a trip to the south for vacation or to visit family, don't miss the opportunity to spend some time on Wrightsville Beach, NC  The closest beach to Wilmington, located on Harbor Island, Wrightsville Beach will wow you with it's exquisite beauty and serene atmosphere. Every public beach access provides a unique vista of the sand and sea, and presents its own special ambiance. In addition to the ocean front experience, quaint shops, fine dining, pubs along the Intracoastal Waterway, and a historical drawbridge provide residents and visitors alike with an awesome sea coast escape!

 As you head over the drawbridge to the Beach, be prepared for a breathtaking view of Banks Channel, dotted by impressive vessels of all sizes and colorful waterfront homes. Wrightsville Beach is the perfect coastal escape! Spend the day or an hour  by the dunes on the southern tip, with it's jetty and view of Masonboro Island, or walk the northern side on Shell Island with its sweeping turns and view of Figure Eight Island.

 If the winds right you're bound to catch sight of colorful sailfish or kite sailing enthusiasts!

   Surfs up! Wrightsville is a haven for surfing fans of all ages!

Like fishing? Right in the middle of the Island you'll find famous Johnny Mercer Pier where you can pick up tackle and rod  and fish off the majestic pier suspended like magic under sky and over sea. Fish cleaning tables are provided for your convenience.

Or if you prefer you can cast your line out at the Oceans Edge!

The town of Wrightsville Beach has a rch and intriguing history. If you have some extra land time stop by and learn more about it at the Town of Wrightsville Museum.

 Take a drive around the Island and gaze in admiration (and maybe a little envy) at the architectural elegance of Wrightsville's imposing beachfront homes, most of which have gone up in the last few years. Interested in purchasing one? Hope you have a fat checkbook. Expect to pay about 3 million and up for an oceanfront location. 

But no worry, move anywhere in Wilmington and you will be within 10 miles of this unsurpassible Beach. Homes inland are very reasonably priced and there is something to fit all budgets!

 There's an ambience like no other here at Wrightville. Be warned you will not want to leave this wonderful place, so leave plenty of time to take it all in. Walk the sand, drive the loop, enjoy a bite to eat on the ocean or channel, pick up a souvenir or two and then head home knowing that because you have left a little piece of your heart in Wrightsville Beach, you will return!

 ©photos by Ginger Sala may not be reproduced without permission