This week I wanted to share a quick summary of sales, comparing 2011 to 2012, in addition to providing examples of homes we have recently SOLD.

Year-to-date (October 24^th) in 2012, there has been 290 sales in Carolina Beach. 121 of these are homes, 114 are condos, and 55 are parcels of land. This compares to 73 homes, 128 condos, and 57 parcels of land that SOLD through 10/24/2011 (258 in total).

In Kure Beach, year-to-date in 2012 there has been 87 sales.  47 of these are homes, 21 are condos, and 19 are parcels of land. This compares to 43 homes, 24 condos, and 16 parcels of land that SOLD through 10/24/2011 (83 in total).

Across the island, sales have increased from 341 in 2011, to 377 in 2012, this is a 11% increase.

At Coastwalk Real Estate, our sales (year to date) have increased 62% compared to 2011.

We have a team of experts that really know this market. We are experienced, we communicate well, and we work aggressively on behalf of our clients.

So…what are we selling? Here are a few examples:

1515 Searay Lane – This is a custom built home by Ocean Grove Cottages with 4 bedrooms and 3 baths. It was purchased by a local family who will be relocating to the beach from Wilmington. Sales price of $369,920.

213 Marquesa Way – This is a beautiful luxury beach home in Live Oak Village in Kure Beach, built by Windjammer Construction. It offered 4 bedrooms, 3 full baths and 2 half baths. It was purchased by a couple from the Boston area for relocation, price of $499,700.

102 Seaward Lane – This is a 4 bedroom, 2 bath home in Kure Beach. A real nice location. Home was purchased as a second home to a Raleigh-area family, for a price of $375,000

1100 S Fort Fisher Blvd – This Ocean Dunes condo was ocean front and came with great ocean views. It was sold furnished to a local investor for $290,000.

206 Greenville Ave – This is a multi family building in Carolina Beach that offers a short walk to the beach and lake. It was sold to an investor for $350,000.

Information by Justin Donaton

Provided by Justin Donaton

Whether you’re a real estate professional, homeowner, or service provider, one thing
is certain – everyone at HSA Home Warranty is dedicated to making your home warranty experience a good one. 

For more than 26 years, HSA has offered comprehensive home warranty plans, adding valuable protection and convenience to homes across the country. In addition to providing homeowners with peace of mind, an HSA home warranty safeguards sellers and buyers alike from the expense of mechanical and appliance failures.

Many home warranty companies offer similar coverage, but you won’t find a company so dedicated to service excellence. From our knowledgeable local sales representatives to our friendly customer service personnel, we all work together toward a common goal – providing our customers with outstanding service, creating clients for life.

Benefits for Buyers

Purchasing a home is one of the biggest investments you’ll ever make. To increase your confidence in this important decision, make sure an HSA home warranty is a part of your real estate transaction.

The home warranty provides:

• Peace of mind – Any move is going to include its share of new expenses.  Take comfort in the fact that repairs of a covered system or appliance won't be part of that.
• Reliable service – You don't have to worry about calling around town for service recommendations and estimates.  Just contact HSA!  We'll arrange for a diagnosis by one of our qualified, prescreened service contractors.  The convenience of the service is matched only by the quality of repairs.
• Protection for years to come – You'll have excellent protection, service and convenience from HSA the year you purchase your new home, but it doesn't have to end there – you can renew your home warranty year after year.  With a monthly payment plan option, you can continue to affordably protect against normal wear and tear that will eventually take a toll on your home's mechanical systems and appliances.
• HSA's Service Guarantee – We won't make you wait for repair service.  When you call for service, HSA will provide a qualified, prescreened contractor to take care of the covered repair.  If an HSA authorized service provider cannot respond within a reasonable time frame, HSA will approve the use of a contractor outside of its network to ensure the convenience of fast service.

There are several good home warranty companies, we we suggest you do some research and choose the one that best suits your needs. Our clients have seemed to have good experiences with HSA, and 2-10.

If we can provide any additional info, please contact Coastwalk Real Estate at 910-458-9119

It’s common sense to have a garage sale before your big move. There’s no reason to pay movers to load boxes of items you can do without. Plus, who needs the clutter in their new home?

But have you ever considered a garage sale after you’ve moved into your new house?

It’s actually a great idea for a number of reasons:

Why did I save this stuff? When you unpack items in you new home, you’re likely to come across a lot of stuff you find you can live without. What seemed essential in the old place just loses its luster in your new space.

But I thought this love seat would fit in here! Despite our best plans, old furniture can turn out to be a poor fit in new spaces. You don’t necessarily have to live with the mistake. Prep it for sale.

Who are these people, anyway? A garage sale will bring out the neighbors. Despite the bargain seeking and good-natured haggling, garage sales are great low-pressure social situations. People are free to browse without the pressure of making conversation. Small talk arises more naturally. People can come and go without obligation.

Who just bought this place, anyway? It’s an opportunity to be a good neighbor. Put out some snacks and drinks. Be easy about your prices and even throw in a few things for free if someone’s buying. Use the event as an ice breaker rather than a profit maker. A lot of first impressions can be made here... why not make good ones?

If you’ve still got stuff to bring to the curb, put the post-move garage sale on your to-do list for the move.

Did you know de-cluttering is also one of the key steps to prepare a home for sale? We have lots of tips if you’re considering listing soon. Please get in touch! 

If you want more info on Wilmington homes for sale or homes for sale in Kure Beach, homes in Carolina Beach, Wrightsville Beach homes or property in Leland, please contact Coastwalk Real Estate at 910-458-9119, or visit www.MyCoastwalk.com

Provided by Justin Donaton

At Coastwalk Real Estate we work hard, we’re creative, and we have fun selling real estate.

This week we wanted t share an idea with you….

Garage sales are very popular before making a big move. There’s no reason to pay movers to load boxes of items you can do without. Plus, who needs the clutter in their new home?

But have you ever considered a garage sale after you’ve moved into your new house?

It’s actually a great idea for a number of reasons:

Why did I save this stuff? When you unpack items in you new home, you’re likely to come across a lot of stuff you find you can live without. What seemed essential in the old place just loses its luster in your new space.

But I thought this love seat would fit in here! Despite our best plans, old furniture can turn out to be a poor fit in new spaces. You don’t necessarily have to live with the mistake. Prep it for sale.

Who are these people, anyway? A garage sale will bring out the neighbors. Despite the bargain seeking and good-natured haggling, garage sales are great low-pressure social situations. People are free to browse without the pressure of making conversation. Small talk arises more naturally. People can come and go without obligation.

Who just bought this place, anyway? It’s an opportunity to be a good neighbor. Put out some snacks and drinks. Be easy about your prices and even throw in a few things for free if someone’s buying. Use the event as an ice breaker rather than a profit maker. A lot of first impressions can be made here... why not make good ones?

If you’ve still got stuff to bring to the curb, put the post-move garage sale on your to-do list for the move.

Did you know de-cluttering is also one of the key steps to prepare a home for sale? We have lots of tips if you’re considering listing soon. Please get in touch! 

Provided by Justin Donaton

Luxury 5 bedroom ocean front home in Carolina Beach with an elevator and private walkway to beach. Come live the dream in Carolina Beach, NC - buy your ocean front home today. Minutes from WIlmington, UNCW, the airport and more! Here is a virtual tour to take a look at - contact Coastwalk Real Estate for more info and a showing!

Contract Coastwalk Real Estate to look today, call 910-458-9119, or visit www.MyCoastwalk.com for more info -- Welcome to this incredible oceanfront home on Carolina Beach. This amazing property has 3 levels. Super layout with bedrooms on the 1st and 3rd floor, and the living area on the 2nd. Relax on any of your 3 large decks overlooking the ocean. In total there are 5 bedrooms and 3.5 baths. Features of this stunning property include hardwood & tile flooring, private elevator, jetted tubs, crown molding, and fireplace. The luxurious kitchen has granite counters, a large granite island, stainless steel appliances & a wine cooler. Buy now & start enjoying everything that oceanfront living has to offer. Your beach home has a wooded walkway to the beach, and lots of outdoor storage space. You reside on a quieter, one-way street...so you don't have the road noise of Lake Park Blvd / Ft Fisher Blvd. Oh, and let's not forget...this property comes fully furnished! Everything you need is ready for you...this is one of the best ocean front deals on the beach!

To view the property photos - visit http://www.listingsmagic.com/50603

Listing provided by: Justin Donaton

Coastwalk Real Estate
Phone: 910-458-9119
Cell: 910-352-0998
Equal Housing Opportunity Information Deemed Accurate but not Guaranteed.

 Provided by Justin Donaton

Beautiful custom built home by Alan Votta, located in Kure Beach NC. Home is in Seawatch, which is a nice community that offers a tiki bar, pool, tennis, playground and more. Inside, this home will amaze you as well!

Contact 910-458-9119 to schedule an appointment Presented by Coastwalk Real Estate ----- Beautiful 3900+ sq foot custom built home by Alan Votta. Ocean view home in Seawatch with private ocean access and private Tiki Bar for residents. Upgrades galore! Brazilian cherry flooring throughout living area. The gourmet kitchen has custom wood island, upgraded granite counter tops opens to living room and combination dining room which great ocean view. Stainless appliances including a convection microwave and built in wine cooler. Upgraded ceramic tiling and granite vanity tops in all 4.5 baths. Each bedroom has a private bath and deck. Large living room is complemented by fireplace and custom built in cabinetry accented by transom windows. Lower level contains bedroom, family room and easy access to covered deck with private outdoor shower. Large garage and storage closet. Super cul-de-sac location that's steps to the beach. Top-of-the-line craftsmanship at 510 Seahorse Place. Metal roof and cedar siding are just two examples. If you want the best, than this is it!

To view the property photos - visit http://www.listingsmagic.com/44971

Listing provided by: Justin Donaton

Coastwalk Real Estate
Phone: 910-458-9119
Cell: 910-352-0998
Equal Housing Opportunity Information Deemed Accurate but not Guaranteed.

 Provided by Justin Donaton

USDA / Rural Housing Mortgage – Class in session…

Summarizing The USDA / Rural Housing Mortgage Program

The USDA loan guidelines are straight-forward. You must qualify for the program and your home must, too.

Here are some common USDA mortgage questions.

How do I check if my home is USDA / Rural Housing-eligible?

With the USDA Rural Housing Program, your home must be located in a rural area. However, the USDA's definition of "rural" is quite liberal. Many small towns meet the USDA requirements, as do suburbs and exurbs of most major U.S. cities. Click here to check your home's USDA loan eligibility.

What is the USDA program's minimum down payment ?

The USDA has no down payment requirement. You can finance 100% with a USDA loan.

Is the USDA loan program limited to first-time buyers?

No, the USDA Rural Housing Program can be used by first-time buyers and repeat buyers.

Can I finance the Upfront Mortgage Insurance into my mortgage, which is 2% of the purchase price?

Yes, the USDA will let you finance your Upfront Mortgage Insurance payment into your loan size. For example, if you bought a home for $100,000 and borrowed the full $100,000 from your lender, your Upfront Mortgage Insurance would be $2,000. You could then raise your loan size to $102,000.

What mortgage products are available with a USDA mortgage?

The USDA / Rural Housing Program offers 30-year fixed rate mortgages only. There is no 15-year fixed rate mortgage. There are no adjustable-rate mortgages. 30-year fixed only.

How much are the closing costs for a USDA mortgage?

Closing costs vary by lender and location. For example, some lenders have high origination charges. ( however we do not). The same is true for state and local governments. Some states have high costs, others have low costs.

I can't afford closing costs. Can I get a gift for my closing costs?

Yes, USDA loans allow gifts from family members and non-family members. You will need a gift letter to accompany your loan application. Your loan officer can give you one, that’s me…. Marsha Stone- American Security Mortgage – NMLS # 90796.

I negotiated to have the seller pay my closing costs. Is that allowed?

Yes, the USDA Rural Housing Program allows sellers to pay closing costs for buyers. These costs can include state and local government fees, lender costs, title charges, and any number of home and pest inspections.

Can I use the USDA loan program for a vacation home?

No, the USDA Rural Housing Program is for primary residences only.

Can I use the USDA loan program for an investment property?

No, the USDA Rural Housing Program is for primary residences only.

Is there a minimum credit score for the USDA loan program?

There is no minimum score, but 640 is generally regarded as a cutoff point for most investors.

I recently went back to work. How long until I am USDA-eligible?

If you are a W-2 employee, you are eligible for USDA financing immediately; you don't need a job history. If you have less than 2 years in a job, however, you may not be able to use your bonus income for qualification purposes.

I am self-employed. Can I use the USDA loan program?

Yes, self-employed persons can use the USDA Rural Housing Program. If you are self-employed and want to use USDA financing, as with FHA and conventional financing, you will be asked to provide 2 years of federal tax returns to verify your self-employment income.

Can I do a "cash out" refinance with the USDA program?

No, the USDA Rural Housing Program is for purchases and rate-and-term refinances only.

Can I use the USDA loan program for my working farm?

No, the USDA Rural Housing Program is for residential property.

Are USDA mortgage rates good?

Yes, USDA Rural Housing Program mortgage rates are often as low as comparable conventional 30-year fixed mortgage rates.

This list is not meant to be a comprehensive of what the USDA allows, but it covers a lot of good ground.

Income limits for this area.

Wilmington, NC HUD Metro FMR Area

1-4 persons $74750.00

5-9 person $98650.00

Marsha R. Stone

Branch Manager/Sr. Mortgage Banker

NMLS ID 90796

American Security Mortgage

1015 Ashes Drive, Suite 100

Wilmington, NC 28405

910-232-3221 (cell)

888-657-1116 (efax)

910-239-5310 ( direct line)

Many home remodeling projects do wonders for the value of the home. Certain upgrades and renovations pay dividends when it comes time to sell, and you often can recoup the money you’ve invested in the upgrade.

There are exceptions, however. And one stands head and shoulders above the rest (or should I say below) when it comes to return on investment:

The home office.

Surprised? It may seem like a home office would be a boon for your home at sale time, especially considering the number of people who telecommute and work online. But the fact of the matter is, a home office seldom recoups more than 45% of the money invested in the remodel.

Why? Multiple factors.

First, even people who work at home often don’t work at home. When was the last time you walked into a coffee shop and didn’t see a laptop open? Many people still find space outside the home to work.

Second, a full-on home office renovation often takes up a bedroom which new owners might want to be able to convert back into a bedroom. If you’ve spent the time and money having built-in furniture added, media wiring, and other “office like” details installed, it represents a cost to restore or lost-usage for the new owners.

Of course, if you need a home office and want to have the home office of your dreams, it might be worth it to you to put the return on investment aside. But don’t undertake the project thinking it will pay off down the line.

Curious which home remodeling projects pay off at the sale? Let’s talk about what you’re considering: Contact Coastwalk Real Estate at 910-458-9119 or http://www.coastwalkrealestate.com/

We help clients in Wilmington NC, and real estate in Kure Beach, homes in Wrightsville Beach and Carolina Beach Real Estate.

Provided by Justin Donaton