Aug. 17, 2006 - Cary NC Real Estate Blog By Cary Realtor Tracy Santrock

Welcome to my Cary NC Area Real Estate Blog. This blog provides Cary NC real estate information and resources to guide homeowners and buyers through the process of selling and buying a house, townhome or even investment property. If you are interested in Raleigh-Cary Real Estate, please e-mail me here for a personal response! Thanks and let's get blogging!

May. 1, 2012 - Ever heard of an Orchid Babysitter?

The Orchid Trail

I've been the proud owner of over 40+ orchids for over 10 years. Because I'm always busy with real estate I rely on an orchid grower to "babysit" my orchids at The Orchid Trail in Morrisville. Paul and owner John Stanton have taken care of my blooming babies. When the orchids are in bloom I get a call from them to pick them up. I usually have a different arrangement for viewing at my office in Cary. When the orchids are out of bloom I bring them back to the Orchid Trail. The orchid growers lease me a 1/4 of a bench and I pay monthly for this service.

With over 2500 orchids and 300 species The Orchid Trail is probably one of the largest private collections in North Carolina. The Collection includes a wide variety of orchid genera, but Phalaenopsis, Dendrobium and Cattleya dominate. Visitors are always invited to view the collection and discuss orchid culture with staff. There are several greenhouses totaling 21,000 sq. feet.

I bring friends and family here when they visit because it is an extraordinary service with beautiful orchids. Do you have one in your area?

Jan. 27, 2012 - Top Active 55 + Triangle Communities

In my previous blogs I have mentioned that I work with Seniors looking to relocate to the Triangle and have my SRES®(Senior Real Estate Specialist) designation. Specifically, I help Seniors that are looking for reasonably priced ranch/villa style homes in neighborhoods that include Senior activities and an affordable lifestyle. Many of the clients I work with are moving here to be close to their children that have moved here because of their jobs. 

 Since North Carolina is now the #1 State for retirees and Active Adult living has become increasingly more popular builders are now recognizing the demand for this type of housing in the Triangle.

	Carolina Preserve™ by Del Webb® Carolina Preserve™ is a Del Webb active adult community in Cary, NC. Located in the heart of the Triangle area between Raleigh, Durham and Chapel Hill residents enjoy access to great culture and top-notch medical and educational institutions. World-class amenities, an active lifestyle and quality ranch homes have made Carolina Preserve a hit with active adults. Carolina Preserve™ is located in the prestigious Amberly master planned community in Cary. Residents of the age-restricted Del Webb neighborhood enjoy exclusive access to a private clubhouse in addition to the shared use of an amenity center in the Amberly subdivision. The surrounding area is renowned for its proximity to great healthcare, continuing education, culture and entertainment venues, and great shopping and dining establishments. Cary continually ranks as a "Best 5 Small Cities to Live" by Money Magazine.   Click on the underlined link to view Homes For Sale at Carolina Preserve.  “Del Webb® and Carolina Preserve™ are trademarks of PulteGroup, Inc. of Bloomfield Hills, Michigan and are used herein to convey purely factual information relating to the listed residential developments.  No association, sponsorship, or affiliation between this website, its owner(s), or parties posting content on this blog exists with PulteGroup, Inc.
	Carolina Arbors by Del Webb (Coming Soon) The new Carolina Arbors in Durham is in the early stages of development and are currently building prototypes and focus groups to determine the best floorplans for the community.  Preliminary collections include Pinehurst, Hatteras, Umstead, and Builtmore Collections.    Other features include: • Low-maintenance living—yard maintenance included in homeowner's dues. • Clubhouse will feature an onsite lifestyle-director, an indoor pool, fitness center, ballrooms, billiard rooms, tennis courts, bocce courts, putting greens, walking trails and MORE! • 1.5 miles to Brier Creek, which offers shopping, dining and golfing. • Close to Duke, UNC, and Wake Med Hospitals. • Heart of the Triangle! Convenient to RDU International Airport, boating, biking, hiking, fishing, continuing education, cultural events, plays shows, collegiate sports and NHL. Based on the similar sized Carolina Preserve metrics at 380 Acres, the north Brier Creek community could easily have more than 1,200 homes at buildout. “Del Webb® and Carolina Arbors™ are trademarks of PulteGroup, Inc. of Bloomfield Hills, Michigan and are used herein to convey purely factual information relating to the listed residential developments. No association, sponsorship, or affiliation between this website, its owner(s), or parties posting content on this blog exists with PulteGroup, Inc.
	Four Seasons At Renaissance Four Seasons at Renaissance in Durham, North Carolina, is a brand new active adult community set in a prime retirement location. Though the community is still under development, the exciting plans include a 7,000 square foot amenity center and a broad range of both attached and detached homes. The builder, K. Hovnanian, is known for creating exceptional active adult communities. Upon completion, Four Seasons at Renaissance will offer many amenities as well as diverse clubs, classes and community events to support a rich, active lifestyle.  Click on the underlined line to View Homes For Sale at Four Seasons at Renaissance.
	Fearrington Fearrington Village in Pittsboro, North Carolina is an age-targeted community with 15 quaint neighborhoods situated on a historic farm site near Chapel Hill. Rolling hills and pastures surround this beautiful community where visitors and residents alike are greeted by scenic views in a charming setting. However, life here is anything but antiquated. Stores, restaurants, banks, and a spa are only some of the on-site conveniences.  Click on the underlined link to View Homes For Sale in Fearrington
	Heritage Pines Heritage Pines in Cary, NC is a 298-home active adult community with single family homes and one-story villas. The community includes tree-lined streets, a socially active lifestyle and an amenity filled clubhouse. It retains a small-town atmosphere where making new friends is easy and neighbors are friendly. Heritage Pines in Cary was built by K. Hovnanian Homes (KHOV) and Westminister Homes between 2000 and 2006. The community is ideally set in the heart of the Triangle area between Raleigh, Durham and Chapel Hill.  This home is complete.  All homes in this community are resales.  Click on the underlined link to View Homes For Sale in Heritage Pines.
	Regency at Brier Creek Regency at Brier Creek Country Club in Raleigh enjoys a prime location in the middle of North Carolina’s popular Triangle area. While Brier Creek is open to all ages, the Regency neighborhood in the community is age-targeted towards mature buyers and includes low-maintenance homes designed to appeal to active adults. These elegant ranch homes, built by Toll Brothers, include desirable features such as spacious master bedroom suites and over-sized two-car garages. Set within 15 minutes of downtown Raleigh, Durham and Chapel Hills, Regency at Brier Creek offers close proximity to many shopping, dining and cultural attractions. Within the community, residents will enjoy such amenities as the 18-hole championship golf course, the Swim and Tennis Pavilion, and the 40,000 square foot clubhouse.   Click on the underlined link to View Homes For Sale in Brier Creek.
	Renaissance at Regency Surrounded by culture and nature, Renaissance at Regency is an inviting community on 165 acres with charming English-styled homes along Symphony Lake in Cary, North Carolina. Here, active adults will find quality and luxury construction at affordable prices. In addition, all cottages are truly maintenance free with professional landscaping and irrigation. New buyers have the opportunity to build their new dream home and establish a foothold in this desirable, established area in Cary. With only 114 home sites, this quaint neighborhood will retain a close community feel. Renaissance at Regency Cottages welcomes buyers of all ages. However, active adults and retirees will find the lifestyle appealing to their needs and wants. Click on the underlined link to View Homes For Sale in Regency.
	The Orchard Villas The Orchard Villas in Apex, NC is an age-targeted ranch home community on the outskirts of Raleigh, North Carolina. With 86 homes, the Orchard Villas provides a quiet setting for adults who want a maintenance-free, ranch home living. The community includes a clubhouse and outdoor pool. The 3,000 square foot clubhouse provides a great place for residents to gather, mingle and relax. Amenities include an outdoor heated pool, fitness center, bocce ball courts, putting green and card room. There are a variety of clubs and activities for the residents of Orchard Villas. Known as the "Peak City," Apex is one of the fastest growing communities in Wake County. With a small town feel and big town amenities, Apex is one of the Triangle's most popular destinations for retirees. It is noted for its scenery and the quaint historic downtown district. The Orchard Villas enjoys easy access to Raleigh-Durham International Airport and Raleigh, Durham, and Cary are a short drive away. Nearby amenities include Jordan Lake, a community library, shopping, restaurants, health care providers and other services.
	Chapelwood Chapelwood is an age-restricted neighborhood with an appealing streetscape and is located in the master-planned community of Downing Creek in Chapel Hill, North Carolina. Hagood Homes develops these residences with green building techniques and utilizes the EPA’s Energy Star for New Homes Programs. While resale inventory is available, new buyers have an abundance of customization options at their disposal. Surrounded by the wooded and pastoral property of the UNC Alumni-Faculty-Staff Recreation Association (also known as The Farm), Chapelwood has a natural ambiance. The community further enhances this atmosphere by keeping 30 percent of its land undeveloped. With only 69 single-family homes scheduled for completion, this serene community will also keep its intimate appeal.

If you are thinking of moving to the Triangle I'd love to help you find the perfect home for you and your family.

Jan. 21, 2012 - Setting My Sights in 2012?

Now that the Triangle Leadership Academy is over I need to set my sights for 2012!   I have asked to participate in a SMART book club with other agents around Cary and the Triangle to study Pat Hiban's 6 Steps to 7 Figures book. This same group studied The Shift a year and a half ago and are now moving onto a new book.  This is my first time participating and last night was our first session. 

 Yesterday we discussed the 1st Chapter to the book on Setting Goals and Affirmations.    This group was very open with ideas and shared their insights on the "systems" they put in place to keep them focused and on task to achieve their goals.  I came away with a few good ideas that I can add to my list for the year. 

What a great time of year to discuss setting goals for 2012!

Jan. 21, 2012 - Carolina Arbors® by Del Webb® Coming Soon!

As many of you know I've been a specialist in Active 55+ communities for several years now and enjoy the benefits of working with the seniors moving here because we live in such a great area and also to be closer to family members that have gotten jobs here and the parents have followed.

As a Senior Residential Estate Specialist (SRES®) I am constantly keeping abreast of the current developments and future developments in the area. As we all know the Del Webb® Community in Cary has been a tremendous success and is anticipated to finish out well before the Charlotte Del Webb Community that launched at the same time at Carolina Preserve™  in Cary in 2006. That said, the national homebuilder is making plans to build another massive community under its Del Webb®  brand.

So what will the new Del Webb® community called Carolina Arbors® in Durham have to offer?

This is great news. The new Carolina Arbors® in Durham will offer the same great floorplans that have been offered at Carolina Preserve™  that have been so popular with buyers. Other features include:

• Low-maintenance living—yard maintenance included in homeowner's dues.
• Clubhouse will feature an onsite lifestyle-director, an indoor pool, fitness center, ballrooms, billiard rooms, tennis courts, bocce courts, putting greens, walking trails and MORE!
• 1.5 miles to Brier Creek, which offers shopping, dining and golfing.
• Close to Duke, UNC, and Wake Med Hospitals.
• Heart of the Triangle! Convenient to RDU International Airport, boating, biking, hiking, fishing, continuing education, cultural events, plays shows, collegiate sports and NHL.

• Doggy park for the dog lovers too!

Based on the similar sized Carolina Preserve™  metrics at 380 Acres, the north Brier Creek community could easily have more than 1,200 homes at buildout.

What is the timeframe for development?

Pulte homes anticipates a rollout in Q32012 with delivery in the Spring 2013. 

Where will the community be located in Raleigh?

The location is central to all parts of Raleigh, Durham, Brier Creek, and Chapel Hill. 

Active 55 in the Triangle - Top 10 New & Affordable

Why is the Triangle Area becoming so popular for retirement?

Retirement in Wake County NC - Triangle Active 55+ Communities help older adults stay active & involved

Active Adult Living In High Demand in the Triangle

Please let me know if I can assist you in any way with your new home search in the Triangle Area!

Jan. 8, 2012 - Fantastic Find in Oxxford Hunt in Cary

$260,000 - Updated 4BR Home in Oxxford Hunt Location: Oxxford Hunt Comfortable living describes this immaculate 4BR home located on a large wooded lot in Oxxford Hunt. The neighborhood itself is distinctive with pool, tennis courts,walking trails, & proximity to Bond Park. Inviting wrap-around front porch,formal living room w/hardwood floors, formal dining room, Master Suite w/sitting area, & oversized deck. New Paint,carpet,fixtures! A must see! Contact Information Tracy Santrock 919-656-5310 2009 & 2010 Preston Listings, Listings Sold, Selling, and Associate of the Year Pricing Price: $260,000 Property Location 107 N. Drawbridge Cary, NC 27513 View Map Features Bedrooms: 4 Bathrooms: 2.5 Parking Spaces: 2 Year Built: 1987 Subdivision: Oxxford Hunt Lot Size: .42 Garage Size: 2 School District: Wake County Square Footage: 2415 Agent Name: Tracy Santrock Broker: Fonville Morisey MLS #: 1814211 Attributes Appliances Range/Oven Dishwasher Microwave Interior Amenities Fireplace Powered by vFlyer.com Equal Housing Opportunity VFLYER ID: 123327003 Photo Gallery Powered by vFlyer.com Equal Housing Opportunity VFLYER ID: 123327003 All information in this site is deemed reliable but is not guaranteed and is subject to change

Jan. 8, 2012 - Charming Ranch For Sale in Cary

$225,000 - Charming Ranch in Springbrooke for Sale Location: Springbrooke harming split bedroom ranch on a gorgeous wooded lot w/plenty of privacy. Oversized living room w/trey ceiling opens to the light & bright kitchen/breakfast room. Master Bath w/garden tub/walk-in closet. Relax & enjoy the wooded backyard on the recently updated screened porch/deck. Hardwood floors are featured throughout the home. Tile in all bathrooms. A must see! Contact Information Tracy Santrock 919-656-5310 2009 & 2010 Preston Listings, Listings Sold, Selling, and Associate of the Year Pricing Price: $225,000 Property Location 106 Oakmist Drive Cary, NC 27513 View Map Features Bedrooms: 3 Bathrooms: 2 Parking Spaces: 2 Year Built: 1992 Subdivision: Springbrooke Lot Size: .19 Garage Size: 2 School District: Wake County Square Footage: 1716 Agent Name: Tracy Santrock Broker: Fonville Morisey MLS #: 1815476 Attributes Appliances Range/Oven Dishwasher Microwave Interior Amenities Hardwood Floors Attic Exterior Amenities Grass Lawn Wooded Lot Powered by vFlyer.com Equal Housing Opportunity VFLYER ID: 123325001 Photo Gallery Powered by vFlyer.com Equal Housing Opportunity VFLYER ID: 123325001 All information in this site is deemed reliable but is not guaranteed and is subject to change

Apr. 24, 2011 - Cary Park Basement Home For Sale

$450,000 - Basement Home in Cary Park Location: Cary Park This craftsman style beauty boasts 5 Br,3.5Ba & 4,365 Sq.Ft. including a finished basement w/owners suite & a 3rd Floor play room! The main level is furnished with site finished hardwoods throughout. The loaded kitchen includes stainless steel GE Profile appliances, a gas range, granite counter tops, a large kitchen island, maple cabinets and tile backsplash. The Gorgeous family room features built-ins and a gas log fireplace. Water views from all four levels (eat breakfast as you watch the ducks through the bay window), a fenced backyard, and a short walk to the Cary Park Swim Club are added features that makes this home such a great buy in Cary Park. Let's not forget location: Cary Park is one of Cary's most desirable neighborhoods for many reasons with location being near the top of the list. You can walk to the new Mills Park schools, the Cary Park clubhouse, swim in the competition pool, have plenty of fun on the 98 foot water slide! For the outdoorsman in your family there is a 28 Acre Lake and 2 miles of walking trails. Not to mention that Cary Park is just a short drive into RTP, minutes to RDU airport, I-540, I-40 and more. Lease-purchase optional! Contact Information Tracy Santrock 919-656-5310 2009 & 2010 Preston Listings, Listings Sold, Selling, and Associate of the Year     Pricing Price: $450,000 Property Location 5623 Cary Glen Boulevard   Cary, NC 27519 View Map Links Virtual Tour Features Bedrooms: 5 Bathrooms: 3.5 Parking Spaces: 2 Year Built: 2005 Subdivision: Cary Park Lot Size: .17 Garage Size: 2 School District: Panther Creek Square Footage: 4365 Agent Name: Tracy Santrock Broker: Fonville Morisey MLS #: 1778759 Attributes Appliances Range/Oven Full Refrigerator Washer/Dryer Dishwasher Interior Amenities Fireplace Hardwood Floors Kitchen Island Exterior Amenities Fenced Yard Powered by vFlyer.com Equal Housing Opportunity VFLYER ID: 24155004 Photo Gallery Powered by vFlyer.com Equal Housing Opportunity VFLYER ID: 24155004 All information in this site is deemed reliable but is not guaranteed and is subject to change

Apr. 24, 2011 - Better than New in Bella Casa

$550,000 - Better than New in Bella Casa Location: Bella Casa Why wait to build when you can enjoy entertaining in this custom brick home located on a private lot now? Don't miss the gourmet kitchen w/Bosch SS Appliances. This home also includes high-end finishes including coffered ceilings, extensive chair-rail moldings, & tray ceilings. The backyard is paradise-screened porch, concrete patio w/custom brick FP, & fenced yard!A must see! Contact Information Tracy Santrock 919-656-5310 2009 & 2010 Preston Listings, Listings Sold, Selling, and Associate of the Year Pricing Price: $550,000 Property Location 2550 Umbria Court Apex, NC 27523 View Map Features Bedrooms: 4 Bathrooms: 3 Parking Spaces: 3 Year Built: 2009 Subdivision: Bella Casa Lot Size: .47 Garage Size: 3 School District: Apex Square Footage: 3320 Agent Name: Tracy Santrock Broker: Fonville Morisey MLS #: 1773533 Attributes Appliances Range/Oven Dishwasher Microwave Interior Amenities Fireplace Hardwood Floors Security System Indoor Sprinkler System Exterior Amenities Fenced Yard Grass Lawn Secluded setting Powered by vFlyer.com Equal Housing Opportunity VFLYER ID: 24155006 Photo Gallery Powered by vFlyer.com Equal Housing Opportunity VFLYER ID: 24155006 All information in this site is deemed reliable but is not guaranteed and is subject to change

Apr. 24, 2011 - Charming Cul-De-Sac Home in MacArthur Park

$275,000 - Charming Cul-De-Sac Home in MacArthur Park Location: MacArthur Park Bring the family home to this immaculate cul-de-sac home in MacArthur Park. This home has been pre-inspected and all repairs done! Sunny kitchen with new smooth top stove & easy access to the large custom built deck, and lush landscaping. Freshly painted, new carpet, & move-in ready! Convenient to Fresh Market, YMCA, Bond Park, and walking trails. Contact Information Tracy Santrock 919-656-5310 2009 & 2010 Preston Listings, Listings Sold, Selling, and Associate of the Year Pricing Price: $275,000 Property Location 105 Pennsbury Court Cary, NC 27513 View Map Features Bedrooms: 4 Bathrooms: 2.5 Parking Spaces: 2 Year Built: 1992 Subdivision: MacArthur Park Lot Size: .26 Garage Size: 2 School District: Green Hope Square Footage: 2278 Agent Name: Tracy Santrock Broker: Fonville Morisey MLS #: 1779469 Attributes Appliances Range/Oven Dishwasher Sink Disposal Interior Amenities Fireplace New Paint & Carpet Exterior Amenities Grass Lawn Secluded setting Powered by vFlyer.com Equal Housing Opportunity VFLYER ID: 24155012 Photo Gallery Powered by vFlyer.com Equal Housing Opportunity VFLYER ID: 24155012 All information in this site is deemed reliable but is not guaranteed and is subject to change

Apr. 24, 2011 - Over 6000 Square Feet in Glenkirk

$715,000 - Over 6000 Square Feet in Glenkirk Location: Glenkirk Bring the family home to this beautiful all brick John Wieland home with over 6000 finished sq. ft. including a finished basement w/kitchen & a 3rd Floor play room! Gourmet Kitchen is a chef's dream! Master w/Sitting Area & his/her closets. 1st Floor Bedroom w/full bath! Private wooded lot backs to the greenway. Unpermitted Sq. Ftg = 2106. A must see! Contact Information Tracy Santrock 919-656-5310 2009 & 2010 Preston Listings, Listings Sold, Selling, and Associate of the Year Pricing Price: $715,000 Property Location 2117 Crigan Bluff Drive Cary, NC 27513 View Map Features Bedrooms: 5 Bathrooms: 5 Parking Spaces: 2 Year Built: 2005 Subdivision: Glenkirk Lot Size: .31 Garage Size: 2 School District: Green Hope Square Footage: 6063 Agent Name: Tracy Santrock Broker: Fonville Morisey MLS #: 1780315 Attributes Appliances Range/Oven Dishwasher Microwave Interior Amenities Fireplace Hardwood Floors Security System Kitchen Island Vaulted Ceilings Basement Attic Exterior Amenities Patio Grass Lawn Secluded setting Powered by vFlyer.com Equal Housing Opportunity VFLYER ID: 24159000 Photo Gallery Powered by vFlyer.com Equal Housing Opportunity VFLYER ID: 24159000 All information in this site is deemed reliable but is not guaranteed and is subject to change

Jan. 8, 2011 - Preston Village in Cary NC

Previously I wrote a post about the Preston neighborhoods in Cary.  Since I just listed a property in Preston Village and I work out of the Preston Fonville Morisey office, I thought I'd write about this wonderful section within Preston. 

Preston Village is a neighborhood section of executive homes that is a part of Preston, a country club community in Cary, NC. Preston Village is located just off of Davis Drive between High House Road and Morrisville Parkway.  One of the big selling points of this neighborhood is the location and community amenities! Preston Village is just a short 10 minutes to Research Triangle Park (RTP) and the RDU Airport!!

Preston Village was developed in the mid 1990s and included a strong builder team:

• Toll Brothers,
• John Wieland Homes
• Sunstar Homes
• the last few lots were built by local custom builders

Other Details:

• Price Range:  $400k-$800k
• HoA Dues:  A reasonable $570/Year

Amenities

Preston Village features a Playground w/separate play areas for smaller children & a Lake with Gazebo over the water.  There are also many sidewalks around the neighborhood for walking. The Circle on the Green with Gazebo is a regular gathering spot for families during the summertime and holidays.  The neighborhood swimming pool and pool house are located in a central location in the community. 

Country Club Membership is optional.  For more information on joining the country club go to Prestonwood's website at Prestonwood Country Club.  I am also a member so feel free to shoot me an email if you have any questions on the memberships.

Schools

Wake County is known for some of the best public schools in the country and the schools for this neighborhood are traditionally ranked at the top. For more information visit Wake County Public Schools website.   The current assignments as of this printing are:

• Green Hope Elementary
• Davis Drive Middle School
• Green Hope High School

Home Owners Association

The Preston Village Board was voted Board of the Year by the North Carolina Community Association Institute!

 For more information visit the Preston Village Website.

Don't miss out on an opportunity to live in this wonderful community!  If you are looking for a luxury home in an excellent location then Preston Village's  can't be beat!  Just minutes to Stone Creek Shopping Center, Prestonwood Country Club and even close proximity to RTP and the airport.  View homes for sale in Preston in Cary or send me a quick email for more information!

Related Posts:

Preston in Cary - Prestige, Location, & Fun for the Family

Jan. 1, 2011 - SAS Brings 100 Jobs to Cary

Cary, NC continues to lead the way in job creation and business recovery.  Recently NC Governor, Beverly Perdue, announced that SAS Institute Inc., the world's largest priveately held software company & "best place to work" will bring over 100 new jobs to the Cary area to man its SAS Analytics Lab for state and local government.  Most of the new SAS jobs will target technology and government experts who will be charged with crunching data numbers using the power of SAS' new 38,000-square-foot cloud computer center at its Cary headquarter campus.  In addition to the job creation SAS plans on investing $3 Million in their new internal human resources and finance headquarters.  

Governor Purdue explained that the government's use of SAS Software will help fight Medicade fraund and is the leading software provider to help the government become more efficient in this area.  We are certainly fortunate to have a leading global software company and the leadership of Jim Goodnight right here in Cary!

**Photo courtesy:  SAS Institute & Greg Segal

About SAS Institute Inc.

What makes it so great?

One of the Best Companies for all 13 years, SAS boasts a laundry list of benefits -- high-quality child care at $410 a month, 90% coverage of the health insurance premium, unlimited sick days, a medical center staffed by four physicians and 10 nurse practitioners (at no cost to employees), a free 66,000-square-foot fitness center and natatorium, a lending library, and a summer camp for children.  The architect of this culture -- based on "trust between our employees and the company" -- is Jim Goodnight, its co-founder, and the only CEO that SAS has had in its 34-year history.  

 

Jan. 1, 2011 - Cary Continues to Grow

Last year I wrote a blog post called Cary NC achieves a decade of growth and prosperity.   I did so because I was actually amazed at the growth we had achieved in the Cary/Apex/Holly Springs area over the past 10 years.  In 2010 the growth and prosperity has continued and this area is becoming the poster  child for recovery from the Great Recession.  

So, what's happening in Cary?

While other areas continue to struggle with their economies Cary's unemployment rate has continued to fall from nearly 7 percent 18 months ago to now just over 5 percent.  How is this happening?

• Siemens opened a 150,000 square foot Gold Level LEED-certified building that added 300 jobs
• John Deere moved 100 engineering jobs to the area
• Garmin International leased 15,000 square feet and added 40 research and engineering positions
• American Airlines expanded its call center and created 108 new jobs
• Sears Regional Routing Center created 50 jobs
• Epic Games expanded by 75,000 square feet
• Wake County Public Schools announced it will move its central office to Cary this summer
•  SAS Institute Brings 100 Jobs to Cary  is adding 100 new jobs over the next two years

Newcomers are still Relocating to Cary:

• In 2010, 4,000 newcomers chose to call Cary home
• Cary now has143,000 residents  and is the seventh largest municipality in the state.
• Cary issued more single-family permits in 2010 than any other municipality in Wake County, including Raleigh.

Town of Cary Safety:

• Cary is considered to be one of the 10 safest cities in America.
• The safest in North Carolina and the safest in the southeast.
• Of communities 100,000 and greater, Cary is the second safest place in the nation.  This is the 12th consecutive year on the list.

Cary's Major Sports Venues are Active:  Cary Tennis Park, the USA Baseball National Training Complex, and the WakeMed Soccer Park

• USA Baseball hosted several national and international events including the USA collegiate team contests result
• The tennis park hosted state and national junior tournaments as well as the ACC tournament.   In addition, the North Carolina Tennis Association recognized Cary's Parks department as the outstanding Parks and Recreation Department of the year.
• The WakeMed Soccer Park hosted the NCAA Women's College Cup, the ACC men's and women's championships, 10 RailHawks matches, several cross country matches, and many more events

Cary Community Arts Center is Coming Soon!

• The old Cary Elementary building is being transformed into the new Cary Community Arts Center, which is expected to open in the Spring 2011!
• There'll be 16 teaching and activity spaces in the building.
• Specialized studios will provide for new classes such as wood-working, faux painting techniques, print-making and lithography in addition to expanded learning in ceramics, jewelry, glass-making, fiber arts, dance, youth and adult performances.
• The art gallery will provide for artists from Cary and beyond to exhibit works in a professional, historic yet modern setting.

So, Why Cary?

In 2010, Cary was once again named one of the safest place in America as well as a great place for new jobs, for maintaining jobs, and for working moms. Cary was also noted for its intelligent population and recognized as a healthy community for active aging. Last, it was also named one of the best small cities in the country.

If you are thinking of relocating to Cary it is clear to see that there are many wonderful reasons to call the area home!  It is also evident that, as the Cary area has grown during the past decade the town has also matured in the process.  Cary will continue to be one of the Best Places to Live in 2011! 

Related Posts:

Cary NC Real Estate --->Why I love Cary NC!

Cary NC achieves a decade of growth and prosperity

Why choose Cary NC for your next home? Letter to my prospective clients...

SAS Institute Brings 100 Jobs to Cary

Dec. 5, 2010 - Cary's Heart of the Holidays Celebration

Letters to Santa

First, the day kicked off with a special mailbox located at the Town of Cary for letters to Santa Claus.......This is a great opportunity for your child to prepare for Santa's visit to Cary! I've been told that all letters in Santa's Mailbox before December 17th will hear back from Santa himself!

Santa’s Workshop
I didn't make Santa's Workshop at the Herbert C. Young Community Center but I heard this event was a big success. This event, sponsored by the Cary Ten Council, was geared towards making holiday craft projects and included entertainment by Cary Ballet Conservatory and a special guest appearance by Santa!

Winter Wonderland at Bond Park
My favorite every year is the popular sledding slope at Bond Park. This event sells out every year and was aided by some winter weather in the afternoon!

Page-Walker Arts & History Center Holiday Open House

What an amazing small town holiday experience at the Page-Walker’s Annual Holiday Open House. My husband, Mauro & I, toured the historic hotel and learned about on the towns century-old holiday traditions and the 1868 historic hotel. The visit included christmas carols around the piano and carolers dressed in historic costume.

The Cary Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony
Last,

but certainly not least, we walked to the Town Hall and went inside before the big unveiling. Inside the Town displayed Cary's own Community Christmas Tree with hand made ornaments donated by several groups in Cary. At 8pm, after the lighting, the Cary Players were presenting "Yes, Virginia, there is a Santa Claus" and the outdoor stage included singers, carolers, dancers, and musicians. 

Wishing you a Happy Holiday Season from

Cary, North Carolina!

Dec. 5, 2010 - Carolina Preserve™ Stay and Play 2011

Thinking of Retirement in 2011? 

Thinking about an Active 55 Adult Community? 

Are you considering a move to Carolina Preserve in Cary?

Interested in moving to the #1 Active 55 Adult Community in the Southest?  Look no further than the premier community of Carolina Preserve™ in Cary, North Carolina.

This year Del Webb is offering a limited number of weekends(1/month) for prospective buyers to visit the community.  The Stay and Play weekends are a great way to meet the neighbors, tour the community and the 34,000 square foot clubhouse, as well as receive a discounted rate at the Hilton Garden and Inn  and to sample the Carolina Preserve™  way of life.

I have all of the dates and details.  The next scheduled Stay and Play is January 14th & 15th, 2011.  Please contact me for additional information regarding the community and the Stay and Play!

Related Info:

Why is the Triangle Area becoming so popular for retirement?

Carolina Preserve Details

Virtual Tour of Carolina Preserve

   Del Webb Floor Plans 

Short Video on Cary Amenities

Nov. 30, 2010 - Triangle Holiday Happenings

Oct. 30, 2010 - The New NC Museum of Art is Spectacular!

There are so many wonderful things to do in the Triangle. The weather is finally cooling off and this weekend has been absolutely beautiful. I've been meaning to get over to the North Carolina Museum of Art since the new opening 3/10th. Yes, I'm slack, and since the real estate market has finally slowed down I was able to visit yesterday and I must admit I was quite impressed! My husband and I had brunch at the Cary Cafe and within 10 minutes we were passed NCSU and walking through the grounds at the Art Museum. The convenience of arts, sports, and activities in the Triangle is one of the big draws to the Triangle.

The new set-up in the West Wing is very sleak and modern. It looks similar to larger city museums seen in New York, Dallas, and Chicago. The new restaurant, called Iris, looked enticing and will be on my list for a visit soon.

The museum is divided into sections with different collections of art work. The Permanent Collection is located in the West Building and offers different options from old Egyptian artifacts to distinctively modern and contemporary artwork. Auguste Rodin, the sculpture artist, has a beautiful garden that was fun to browse also. I don't want to spoil the experience for your visit although I have provided a few photos to show the slick new design.

There are several events going on at the NCMA including the Fall Film Series and the upcoming special exhibition featuring Norman Rockwall. I will be sure to be back to visit in November!

American Chronicles: The Art of Norman Rockwell - NCMA - 11/7/10-1/30/11

Fall Film Series at NCMA

Tickets for the Norman Rockwall Exhibit

Oct. 29, 2010 - Waverly Place in Cary is moving forward with renovations

Back in 2007 I wrote Waverly Place in Cary, NC will get a Facelift.

With the slowdown in the real estate market the project didn't quite launch as quickly as expected. Thanks to RP Realty of Beverly Hills, California this project has been revived and the re-development is proceeding.

There are several local companies involved in Waverly Place’s renovation including:

• Whiting Turner- general contractor
• Tri Properties --Construction manager and property manager
• Finley Design PA Architecture & Interiors
• Jerry Turner & Associates Landscape Architecture

Waverly Place official groundbreaking took place on 9/24th seems to be turning and the bulldozers are abound at this long awaited revitalized shopping destination. The new Waverly Place will be the areas signature shopping and dining destination similar to North Hills in Raleigh. There will be shops, restaurants and retail along with an open-air Promenade and over an acre of entertainment and green space.

With valet parking and sophisticated architectural styling, Waverly Place sets the new standard for elegance in Cary. For leasing information contact Jenn Olevitch at 919-678-0878.

**Photo courtesy of RP Realty.

Related Information:

VIDEO of the planned facelift

Developer tries again at Waverly Place

Oct. 29, 2010 - Cary Luxury Home Market Conditions 2010

I've recently had the pleasure of working with Buyers looking for a Luxury Home in Cary.  Just last weekend I showed a home in Preston and the Listing Agent sent me an email asking for additional feedback to my comments on why the home we viewed did not compete with the other homes on the market based on price and updates that are needed. 

Sellers need to pay attention.  In Cary there is a tremendous amount of competition in this price range.  In Cary Area 5,10 alone there are 18 homes for sale and, in 2010, only 2 homes between 1M and 2M that were not new construction sold.  The home  in Avenue of the Estates that sold sold less than $1M(the other is pending). I sold one that was technically a resale in Renaissance at Regency but the homeowners never lived there. 

In order to compete with new construction the homes need to have the same quality, construction, and updates as the others on the market or they will be unable to compete.   If sellers completely update the home they could still end up suffering with the price and have spent a considerable amount of money in doing so.  In this market I tell my sellers that they have to lead the market in order to be competitive-either by the look/feel of the home or in pricing.  Who knows, the luxury home market could get worse in the triangle before it gets better.   

 That said, our local analyst, Stacy Amphinson, defines the Luxury Home Segment as homes for sale over $500k.  For this analysis I've included homes priced $700k and above because I think that provides a better picture of the true Cary Luxury Homes Market. 

In Cary there are a couple of other elements at play.  In the past homes in established neighborhoods like MacGregor Downs and Preston sold incredibly well because the neighborhoods were well established and had golf course views.  A couple of years back when the real estate market was booming the custom builders decided to ramp up new construction.  As a result, new construction has had a big impact on resale homes in this segment. 

For the sake of this analysis I'm going to break down the homes into four price points: 

• $700,000-$800,000
•  $800,000-$1M
•  $1M-$2M+ and
• $2M+

All figures are bases on numbers pulled today October 27, 2010 and are from the Triangle MLS:

Here are a few observations that relate back to my comments above:

• At $178/square foot Cary's Luxury homes are less expensive than homes in other popular Luxury Home communities in the Triangle
• I ran the same analysis in 2008 and the Average Price/Square Foot in Cary was $198 so prices in this segment have dropped
• Of the 52 Homes that have sold above $700k YTD 37 of them were new construction
• Top Selling Cary Luxury Home neighborhoods include Regency with 15 Sales & Copperleaf with 14 Sales
• New construction neighborhoods selling briskly include Copperleaf, Rennaisance at Regency,  and Greyhawk Landing
• Homes in the 2M+ range are found in Chapel Hill, Wake Forest, and Raleigh but fewer in Cary
• Lending restrictions have had a significant influence on the $700k-$800k price point.  Sales in 2010 are off by 43% compared to 2008
• A decrease in new homes for sale and sellers that have not sold taking their homes off of the market has influenced the inventory in the Triangle Luxury Home Segment

 If you have any questions regarding this report or would like more information on the Cary Luxury Home Market please feel free to email me or visit Tracy Santrock's website for more information.

Oct. 29, 2010 - Cary is a Bicycle Friendly Community(BFC)

Did you know that Cary has been recognized as one of the first fourteen Bicycle Friendly Communities by the League of American Bicyclists? And, what does that actually mean?

Communities across the US are judged on the five Es which are: Engineering, Education, Encouragement, Enforcement, and Evaluation & Planning. A community must demonstrate achievements in each of the five categories in order to be considered for an award.

The Town of Cary, with their comprehensive transportation plan, has done an excellent job of planning the Cary Greenways, Trails, and Bike Lanes throughout the town for recreation and enjoyment. I've included a link to the Cary Bicycle Map, a video on Bicycling in Cary, and safety tips for all families.

Weather enjoyng a short bike ride around the neighborhood, a rough ride through the park on a mountainbike, or a long ride out to Jordan Lake there is something for all cyclists in Cary.

Town of Cary Bicycle Map

VIDEO on Bicycling in Cary

Bicycle Safety Tips