Wilmington NC Real Estate Agents

Did you know that real estate agents often specialize as buyer’s agents or seller’s agents? While you’re interviewing seller’s agents for your home, be sure you ask the important questions.

Odds are the day will come when you need to speak to a real estate agent to help you sell your home. When that day comes, you want to be absolutely sure you have the knowledge you need to choose someone who has the background and skills to represent your interests.

First, you’ll want to work with an agent who represents sellers as the majority of their business. You’ll find that many agents have experience on both the buying and selling side of the situation, but it’s optimal to work with an agent who has dedicated the majority of their time working with sellers.

While rapport is important, it is far from the most important factor. Yes, it is ideal to work with someone you like and someone who will communicate well with you, but there is a much more effective way to evaluate your agent: The numbers.

But which numbers? Here are some direct questions which will help you compare agent experience and performance:

1. How many continuous years have you been in real estate?

2. How many homes did you sell last year working as the seller’s agent?

3. How many homes have you sold in the past 3 years?

4. How many homes have you sold in my neighborhood (or my general vicinity)?

5. Of the homes you’ve sold in the past year, what was the average number of days the home was on the market from initial listing date until the final, accepted offer?

6. Looking at your past 12 months of closed sales, what percentage has the final selling price been compared to the initial listing price?

7. How much will you charge me to sell my home? What sort of marketing efforts does this cover? How many websites will you advertise on? How many agents will you personally contact and inform them about my home? How many buyers will you personally contact and inform them about my home?

8. How many references do you have, and can I speak with three of them?

9. Do you have a local office that you can meet clients and prospective buyers of my house at?

These questions may seem somewhat blunt, but full-time agents with a career built on selling homes shouldn’t have a problem answering you to the best of their ability. In fact, I’d be happy to answer them if you’re serious about listing. Contact me today at 910-352-0998.

Expect Results:

Your Real Estate Market Report is provided by Justin Donaton of Coastwalk Real Estate. Any data provided, unless otherwise noted, is courtesy of the Wilmington Association of REALTORS MLS and/or the National Association of REALTORS.

Justin does not just "list" properties, he sells them! To get your home SOLD for the highest possible price, call Justin at 910-352-0998. Justin has SOLD the most real estate on Pleasure Island every year since 2007. He has the highest dollar volume of sales, and has had the most number of closings. His business is built on hard work and high-impact marketing. Coastwalk Real Estate is the #1 Sales office on Pleasure Island. Please visit:  www.CoastwalkRealEstate.com for more info.

Buying in Wilmington NC

If you’ve found yourself paralyzed by this active market, you’re not alone. According to a recent survey of 3,500 buyers, a whopping 58% of potential homebuyers are sitting on the sidelines because they’re afraid the market is too hot. Here’s a breakdown of their top concerns:

1. Affordability: Prices are rising or too high (27%)

2. There's too much competition from other buyers (17%)

3. There aren't enough homes to choose from (14%)

While it’s true we’ve seen a dramatic increase in market activity over the past few years, it’s important to remember that what you want isn’t necessarily what everyone else wants. Where you want to live and the type of home you want to live in isn’t necessarily subject to the “macro trends” in any given market situation.

Your dream home is as unique as you are, and the only way to understand what’s out there is to take the time to share the details of what you’re looking for with a professional who is tuned into the market. What’s more, an agent can help debunk market myths and keep an eye out for properties which fit your specific criteria.

Now is a good time to make a list of criteria for your next home. Begin with your “must haves” and move on to your “nice to haves.” Consider square footage, neighborhood, amenities, and your budget as you put together this list. Reflecting on this information will help you have a productive discussion with a buyer’s agent and also contribute to your understanding of “what’s out there” in your immediate market.

Often our fears turn out to be unfounded. If you’ve been letting your perception of the market stymie you from pursuing your dream, now is a good time to start a discussion with someone who can help you see the whole picture.

Contact me today at 910-352-0998 if I can be of any assistance!

Expect Results:

Your Real Estate Market Report is provided by Justin Donaton of Coastwalk Real Estate. Any data provided, unless otherwise noted, is courtesy of the Wilmington Association of REALTORS MLS and/or the National Association of REALTORS.

Justin does not just "list" properties, he sells them! To get your home SOLD for the highest possible price, call Justin at 910-352-0998. Justin has SOLD the most real estate on Pleasure Island every year since 2007. He has the highest dollar volume of sales, and has had the most number of closings. His business is built on hard work and high-impact marketing. Coastwalk Real Estate is the #1 Sales office on Pleasure Island. Please visit:  www.CoastwalkRealEstate.com for more info.

Carolina Beach Real Estate Market Summary

Carolina Beach Real Estate Homes for Sale

Average price per square foot for Carolina Beach NC was $189, a decrease of 1% compared to the same period last year. The median sales price for homes in Carolina Beach NC for May 15 to Aug 15 was $244,500 based on 31 home sales. Compared to the same period one year ago, the median home sales price increased 5.4%, or $12,500, and the number of home sales decreased 58.7%. There are currently 195 resale and new homes in Carolina Beach on Trulia, including 5 open houses, as well as 24 homes in the pre-foreclosure, auction, or bank-owned stages of the foreclosure process. The average listing price for homes for sale in Carolina Beach NC was $312,533 for the week ending Aug 12, which represents a decrease of 1.2%, or $3,772, compared to the prior week.

For more information Contact Coastwalk Real Estate at 910-458-9119

Carolina Beach Homes for Sale Summary

Carolina Beach Real Estate

Average price per square foot for Carolina Beach NC was $190, a decrease of 1% compared to the same period last year. The median sales price for homes in Carolina Beach NC for Apr 15 to Jul 15 was $238,250 based on 32 home sales. Compared to the same period one year ago, the median home sales price increased 2.3%, or $5,250, and the number of home sales decreased 59.5%. There are currently 184 resale and new homes in Carolina Beach on Trulia, including 1 open house, as well as 11 homes in the pre-foreclosure, auction, or bank-owned stages of the foreclosure process. The average listing price for homes for sale in Carolina Beach NC was $314,096 for the week ending Jul 29, which represents an increase of 1.3%, or $4,046, compared to the prior week.

Contact Coastwalk Real Estate for more info at 910-458-9119

Moving to Wilmington NC

Wilmington Real Estate Tips

Moving day has a lot of moving parts. Almost everything you own is stored for transit, and finding one or two essential items can be a major headache, even if you labeled your boxes.

To make the day as smooth as possible, I advise my clients make a “Moving Day Survival Kit.” It’s surprising how awesome having these items at your disposal is when you first land at your new home. From paper plates and plastic flatware for lunch to toilet paper for the obvious reasons, the Moving Day Survival Kit can be a real life-saver as you sort out where the furniture and boxes need to be. Here’s what I recommend you pack in your Moving Day Survival Kit:

·   Paper towels

·   Glass cleaner

·   Baby wipes

·   Sharpie marker

·   Duct or packing tape

·   Large garbage bags

·   Toilet paper

·   Tape measure

·   Picture hangers/anchors

·   Needle nose pliers

·   Screwdriver

·   Wrench

·   Pliers

·   Box cutters (at least two)

·   Scissors (at least two)

·   Hammer

·   Small level or download a leveling app on your smartphone

·   Plastic silverware

·   Paper plates

·   Disposable / Solo cups

·   Light bulbs in high & low wattage

·   Extension cord(s)

An inexpensive plastic bin is a great way to assemble and store the kit separate from your other possessions. Feel free to add/omit items as you see fit, but with this list you’re sure to have everything covered.

I love to help buyers and sellers on their journey to moving day. Ready to move? Contact me today: 910-458-9119.

Search for homes in Wilmington, NC Here!

Provided by Justin Donaton

Wilmington Flood Insurance

North Carolina Flood Insurance Info

It’s a nightmare situation, and we’ve all seen it on the news before: Water lapping at people’s roofs, furniture floating in inundated living rooms, and entire livelihoods swept away by floods. Almost any waterway can become a flood threat if the conditions are right. What would you do if you found your home facing a rising water line?

Most people don’t realize that basic homeowners’ insurance policies don’t cover flood damage. Think snow damage or hurricanes are covered by your policy? Check again. Many companies will not pay out for repairs from water events such as these.

Some facts you should know about flood insurance:

·         Premiums for flood insurance will vary based on home construction, year, and estimated risk.

·         There’s a 30-day waiting period before coverage goes into effect. (Don’t get caught shopping for a last-minute policy because you see a big storm coming!)

·         If you buy flood insurance while you’re engaged in the mortgage process, you may waive the 30-day waiting period.

·         The U.S. government will not provide flood assistance unless the area is declared a disaster zone.

·         If you’re selling a home in a flood plain, recognize that the flood insurance requirement may be viewed as a major negative in buyers’ eyes.

·         Flood maps can change, so it’s a good idea to check floodmap.net for information.

·         Flood insurance doesn’t necessarily cover everything in your home, so be aware of the terms of the policy.

While the decision to purchase flood insurance is ultimately up to you, provided you’re not required by your lender to have it, you should ask yourself if the savings is worth the risk.

Be prepared for floods by reading up on them at the ready.gov website here:

http://www.ready.gov/floods

 You can also learn more about flood insurance at FEMA here:

http://www.fema.gov/national-flood-insurance-program

 Curious who offers flood insurance in your area? Get in touch and I’ll refer you to someone I know and trust: Please call me at 910-458-9119.

provided by Justin Donaton

Carolina Beach Homes for Sale

Carolina Beach Real Estate Report

I hope you are having a great week! Real Estate sales remain strong, and we’re seeing an influx of Buyers from the Northeast, Mid-Atlantic and Midwest purchase property at the beach and in Wilmington.

Below is a quick comparison between 2014 and 2015, and some highlights I wanted to share:

Through 7-27-15, there have been 213 homes and condos to sell in Carolina Beach. The average sales price is $257,219 and the average ‘days on market’ is 150 days.

During this same period, there have been 43 lot sales in Carolina Beach.

Comparatively, in 2014 from 1-1-14 thru 7-27-14, there were 161 homes and condos to sell, and 37 lot sales in Carolina Beach. The average sales price of these homes was $256,608, and the average ‘days on market’ was 148 days.

There has been a 32% increase in home/condo sales year-over-year in Carolina Beach.

In Kure Beach, through 7-27-15, there have been 65 homes and condos to sell, and 11 lots. The average sales price of these homes was $381,103, and the average ‘days on market’ was 142 days.

Comparatively, in 2014 from 1-1-14 thru 7-27-14, there were 58 homes and condos to sell, at an average price of $351,784, and an average ‘days on market’ of 150. There were 7 lots to sell during this time.

There has been a 12% increase in home/condo sales year-over-year in Kure Beach.

Here are some highlights of recent sales:

501 N 5^th Ave, Kure Beach – This is a 3 bedroom, 2 bath home in Beachwalk. It had multiple offers, sold in two weeks, and for above asking price at $360,400.

130 Settlers Lane – This home is also in Beachwalk. It sold quickly and for above asking price at $362,500.

281 Seawatch Way – This is a nice 5 bedroom home tucked in the trees. Sold for $650,000.

1100 S Fort Fisher Blvd – Received a cash offer within two weeks of listing, and sold for a very strong price of $290,000. Oceanfront condo in Ocean Dunes.

1517 Searay Lane – This is a new house by Dutch Built homes with 3 bedrooms. Sold above asking price and prior to completion. Sales price $366,165.

918 Carolina Beach Ave N – This is an older condo with an ocean view. 2 bedrooms and 2 baths. Sold for $194,000.

503 Goldsboro Ave – A new ranch with 3 bedroom and 2 baths near downtown Carolina Beach. This home sold before completion for $314,900.

1047 S Fort Fisher Blvd – A 6 bedroom ocean front home in Kure Beach on the rental program. Sold for $1,062,500.

857 S Fort Fisher Blvd – A nice ocean front home on a wide lot with a big back yard. Sold for $1,425,000.

So it’s been a good year….but I am so excited for the rest of summer and fall. Sales should remain strong. If you are thinking of selling, please give me a buzz. I’d love to earn your business! My cell is 910-352-0998.

Hampstead Real Estate Info

Hampstead Homes for sale

Average price per square foot for Hampstead NC was $113, an increase of 15.3% compared to the same period last year. The median sales price for homes in Hampstead NC for Apr 15 to Jul 15 was $225,000 based on 59 home sales. Compared to the same period one year ago, the median home sales price increased 2.5%, or $5,500, and the number of home sales decreased 13.2%. There are currently 610 resale and new homes in Hampstead on Trulia, including 31 homes in the pre-foreclosure, auction, or bank-owned stages of the foreclosure process. The average listing price for homes for sale in Hampstead NC was $280,836 for the week ending Jul 15, which represents an increase of 2.3%, or $6,333, compared to the prior week.

For more information please contact Coastwalk Real Estate at 910-458-9119

Carolina Beach Homes report

Carolina Beach Real Estate info

Average price per square foot for Carolina Beach NC was $190, a decrease of 2.1% compared to the same period last year. The median sales price for homes in Carolina Beach NC for Apr 15 to Jul 15 was $232,000 based on 38 home sales. Compared to the same period one year ago, the median home sales price decreased 0.1%, or $250, and the number of home sales decreased 55.8%. There are currently 195 resale and new homes in Carolina Beach on Trulia, including 2 open houses, as well as 12 homes in the pre-foreclosure, auction, or bank-owned stages of the foreclosure process. The average listing price for homes for sale in Carolina Beach NC was $308,284 for the week ending Jul 15, which represents an increase of 2.9%, or $8,795, compared to the prior week.

Please call us for more info at 910-458-9119

Kure Beach Real Estate - July 2015

Kure Beach Home Info

The median sales price for homes in ZIP code 28449 for Apr 15 to Jul 15 was $299,000. This represents an increase of 19.6%, or $49,000, compared to the prior quarter and a decrease of 9.4% compared to the prior year. Sales prices have depreciated 8.3% over the last 5 years in 28449, Kure Beach. Average listing price for homes on Trulia in ZIP code 28449 was $369,852 for the week ending Jul 01, which represents a decline of 6.8%, or $26,825 compared to the prior week and a decline of 3.9%, or $14,856, compared to the week ending Jun 10. Average price per square foot for homes in 28449 was $200 in the most recent quarter.

Contact Coastwalk Real Estate at 910-458-9119 for more information