Date Archives: September 2020

It's no secret that North Carolina has some of the best food in the country, but many residents of the Triangle are surprised to discover just how many times Raleigh's restaurants have been featured on TV. From local news to international programs on Food Network and Travel Channel, our favorite places to dine are given primetime slots on television. Next time you're headed out to eat, our real estate agents encourage you to check out these Raleigh restaurants that have been featured on TV.

1. The Roast Grill – 7 S. West St., Raleigh, NC 27603 
   As Seen On Man v. Food
   
   Opened in 1940, The Roast Grill has been serving up hot dogs on the same grill they used 80 years ago. When Man v. Food's Adam Richman came to town, Raleigh residents knew he'd be taking on the Hot Dogger Eating Challenge. Richman dominated the challenge, downing 17 hot dogs, a half-pint of mustard, and a pint of chili sauce, which caused the challenge to be renamed as the Man v. Food Hot Dog Challenge. Whether you're going in to take the challenge or a single dog, don't ask for ketchup!
   
   
2. The Pit – 328 W. Davie St., Raleigh, NC 27601
   As Seen On Throwdown with Bobby Flay
   
   The Pit serves up the tastiest pork this side of the Smoky Mountains, but when celebrity chef Bobby Flay came to town, things got messy. Thankfully, the pitmaster defeated the grill master, winning a rib challenge on Throwdown with Bobby Flay. The Pit has been featured time and time again on other shows like Chopped, Man v. Food, and The Today Show, which is all the more reason to see what all the buzz is about. Grab a plateful of barbeque, a fine bourbon whiskey, and taste why The Pit just can't stay out of the limelight.
   
   
3. Original Flying Burrito – 4800 Grove Barton Rd., Raleigh, NC 27613
   As Seen On Food Paradise
   
   The Southwest meets the Southeast at Original Flying Burrito, which was featured on an episode of Food Paradise's episode "Burrito Paradise." To taste what you've seen on TV, order up the Carolina Burrito. Made fresh from scratch each day, the delicious sauces, salsas, and other sweet and savory menu items are sure to make your mouth water. They even have a separate vegan menu for those who prefer their burrito meat and dairy-free.
   
   
4. Azurelise – 702 Boylan Ave., Raleigh, NC 27605
   As Seen On Road Tasted with the Neelys
   
   With so much savory barbeque in town, Azurelise offers a sweet alternative. While they received great reviews on Road Tasted with the Neelys, Azurelise's chocolate truffles let their flavor do the talking. The minute you let of one, these delectable chocolates melt on your tongue, you'll know why Azurelise is a standout confectioner in the city. Order up at least two batches; you'll likely devour the first on the car ride home!

If you thought Raleigh's restaurant scene was impressive, wait until you see our housing market! Contact us today to begin touring the best Raleigh homes for sale.

Can you believe it's the last weekend in September? That means two things: (1) we're one step closer to 2021 and (2) it sounds like a good weekend to find your next home.

Our Coldwell Banker Howard Perry and Walston real estate agents will be hosting open houses in the hottest areas of the Triangle this weekend. So, go get that pumpkin spice latte (or whatever basic beverage you prefer), pull out your fall décor then plan out which homes you're going to go visit.

And don't forget, this weekend marks the first weekend of the annual Triangle Parade of Homes!

At HPW, we are committed to maintaining reliable service to our clients, while doing our part to limit the spread of the COVID-19. In order to protect both our clients and agents, we are asking everyone to please take precautionary measures when visiting our open houses. And if attending an open house still isn't in the cards for you then have no fear, we have numerous virtual tours of these amazing homes and more.

Featured Open Houses

1505 Malta Avenue, Raleigh, NC 27610

$435,000

Sq Ft: 1,700 | Beds: 3 | Baths: 2 (full) 1 (1/2)

Open House: Saturday, September 26 from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m.

7200 Summer Tanager Trail, Raleigh, NC 27614

$1,350,000

Sq Ft: 4,763 | Beds: 5 | Baths: 6 (full) 1 (1/2)

Open House: Saturday, September 26 from 12:00 to 5:00 p.m. and

Sunday, September 27 from 12:00 to 5:00 p.m.

1520 Cole Mill Road, Durham, NC 27705

$840,000

Sq Ft: 6,386 | Beds: 6 | Baths: 5 (full)

Open House: Saturday, September 26 from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. and

Sunday, September 27 from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m.

6815 Holly Springs Road, Raleigh, NC 27606

$799,000

Sq Ft: 4,623 | Beds: 3 | Baths: 4 (full) 2(1/2)

Open House: Saturday, September 26 from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. and

Sunday, September 27 from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m.

1117 Eva Street, Durham, NC 27703

$305,000

Sq Ft: 1,380 | Beds: 3 | Baths: 2 (full)

Open House: Saturday, September 26 from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. and

Sunday, September 27 from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m.

627 Brookview Drive, Chapel Hill, NC 27514

$559,800

Sq Ft: 3,838 | Beds: 6 | Baths: 3 (full) 1 (1/2)

Open House: Sunday, September 27 from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m.

7309 River Glen Court, Raleigh, NC 27614

$550,000

Sq Ft: 3,800 | Beds: 4 | Baths: 3 (full) 1 (1/2)

Open House: Sunday, September 27 from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m.

Once you close on your new home, it might feel like the hard work is over. However, there are still a lot of tasks you need to add to your to-do list to get your new home set up so that it's safe and comfortable for your family. Here are some things you need to do after buying your home. 

1. Change Your Address
   Now that your new address is official, you need to update it with anyone that you conduct personal or official business with. Update your address with your:

• Friends and family
• Employer
• Financial institutions
• Lenders and credit card companies
• Schools and afterschool programs
• Doctor and dental offices

2. Clean Your New Home
   Make sure that your new space is ready for your family by giving it a thorough scrubbing before you move in. Our real estate agents know that it's much easier to clean an empty home that one that's filled with moving boxes and furniture. Work from the top of the room to the bottom of the room so that you don't have to backtrack with your cleaning efforts. Worried you won't have time to clean before your moving date? Hire a pro to come in and deep clean your new home for you. 

3. Connect Your Utilities
   Ideally, you should start the process of connecting your utilities prior to your closing date. It can take 2-3 weeks for everything to get connected and set up, and some utility companies may not have an immediate opening. 

4. Test Your Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
   Even if your home inspector examined all of your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors during your home inspection, you want to ensure that they're still in good working order. Check the batteries, and determine if you need to add any additional detectors based on the size and layout of your new home. While you're at it, see that your home has ample fire extinguishers. 

5. Change the Security Codes and Locks
   Make sure that you're the only one who has access to your home by changing the security codes and the locks. Change all your gate, door, and garage codes. As long as your door locks are in good condition and you're pleased with their appearance, you can save money by having them rekeyed (versus replacing them entirely). Remember to also replace locks on exterior buildings and doors.
   
   
6. Get Started on Your Home Maintenance
   While some Raleigh homes for sale may have minimal must-dos on their home inspections, others may have a more extensive list of items that need to be completed. Examine your home inspection report, and decide which items you want to get started with. Prioritize any items that are safety concerns (such as clogged dryer vents) or that are simply long overdue (like changing dirty filters). 

Want to start exploring properties that might be right for you? Contact us today to get started!

It is finally going to feel like fall this weekend! Also known as sweater weather, it's the perfect time to get out of the house and enjoy all that autumn has to offer. While many may reach for a pumpkin spice latte, others will be searching for the perfect Halloween costume and some will be house hunting for a new home.

Those in the last category are in luck! Our Coldwell Banker Howard Perry and Walston real estate agents will be hosting open houses all across the Triangle this weekend. We think there are bound to be a few that you will fall in love with.

At HPW, we are committed to maintaining reliable service to our clients, while doing our part to limit the spread of the COVID-19. In order to protect both our clients and agents, we are asking everyone to please take precautionary measures when visiting our open houses. And if attending an open house still isn't in the cards for you then have no fear, we have numerous virtual tours of these amazing homes and more.

Featured Open Houses

103 Futrell Ridge Court, Chapel Hill, NC 27517

$959,900

Sq Ft: 3,532 | Beds: 4 | Baths: 4 (full) 

Open House: Saturday, September 19 from 12:00 to 5:00 p.m. and

Sunday, September 20 from 12:00 to 5:00 p.m.

211 St Jiles Drive, Clayton, NC 27520

$430,000

Sq Ft: 2,700 | Beds: 3 | Baths: 2 (full) 1 (1/2)

Open House: Saturday, September 19 from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. and

Sunday, September 20 from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m.

329 Roberts Ridge Drive, Cary, NC 27513

$390,000

Sq Ft: 2,239 | Beds: 3 | Baths: 2 (full) 1 (1/2)

Open House: Saturday, September 19 from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. and

Sunday, September 20 from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m.

3200 Hickory Road, Raleigh, NC 27616

$650,000

Sq Ft: 4,711 | Beds: 5 | Baths: 3 (full) 1 (1/2)

Open House: Saturday, September 19 from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. and

Sunday, September 20 from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m.

4137 Green Chase Way, Apex, NC 27539

$989,000

Sq Ft: 3,800 | Beds: 4 | Baths: 4 (full) 1 (1/2)

Open House: Saturday, September 19 from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. and

Sunday, September 20 from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m.

7801 Dover Hills Drive, Wake Forest, NC 27587

$800,000

Sq Ft: 3,920 | Beds: 3 | Baths: 5 (full)

Open House: Saturday, September 19 from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. and

Sunday, September 20 from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

210 River Birch Lane, Chapel Hill, NC 27514

$539,900

Sq Ft: 2,910 | Beds: 5 | Baths: 3 (full)

Open House: Sunday, September 20 from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m.

At last year's Gen Blue in Las Vegas, Coldwell Banker unveiled a brand new logo for the first time in 40 years. Dubbed the "CB North Star mark," this new logo symbolized Coldwell Banker as the leader in the real estate industry.  

Yesterday during the kickoff for Virtual Gen Blue 2020, another new logo was unveiled: the Coldwell Banker Global Luxury logo. "We are the North Star of real estate," said David Marine during the new global luxury unveiling. "We thought it was time to align our global luxury program with this new visual design as well."

Consumers already view Coldwell Banker brand as the leader in the luxury real estate space and find the new design as appealing, memorable, sophisticated and modern. While the logo may change, what we offer as a part of the global luxury program through Coldwell Banker and the standard of excellence that we hold to, must remain the same.

Let's face it. Not everyone is a morning person! One thing that makes mornings more bearable is the fantastic brunch options we have in the Triangle area. Our real estate agents love the local dining scene, and that includes frequenting brunch spots in the area. Looking for a delicious start to your morning? Be sure to check out the following local restaurants for your next morning meal!  

1. Parkside Restaurant – 301 W. Martin St., Raleigh, NC 27601
   Located in the Warehouse District near some of our most popular Raleigh homes for sale, Parkside wants to show you the hospitality that's existed in this historic area for over a century. One of their brunch staples is a fried pork chop with cheddar waffle. This meaty meal is topped with powdered sugar, syrup, and a peach bourbon glaze. Perfect for those who love sweet and savory combinations! 
   
   
2. Big C Waffles – 2110 Allendown Dr., Durham, NC 27713
   After browsing Durham homes for sale, pull up or park at Big C Waffles to enjoy some of Uncle Wayne's Chicken and Granny-B Kool-Aid. Standard blueberry waffles and pecan waffles are available, but what sets this menu apart is the interesting offerings like the Donut Waffle, Red Velvet Waffle, Bacon Egg N Cheese Waffle, and the Thin Mint Waffle. That's right – it's Girl Scout Cookie season every day at Big C Waffles.
   
   
3. Famous Toastery – 316 Colonades Way #201C, Cary, NC 27518
   There's a reason why Famous Toastery is one of the premier family restaurants near our Cary homes for sale. For over a decade, they've exceeded customer expectations in both service and taste. Their impressive menu offers classic brunch fare to start your morning. Order options like the breakfast quesadilla, stuffed French toast, and avocado toast. If eggs benedict is your brunch item of choice, their extensive list of options is sure to impress! Options include avocado benedict, Cali benedict, classic benedict, and more. Come back week after week to try them all.
   
   
4. The Mayton Inn – 301 S. Academy St., Cary, NC 27511
   If you're looking to pamper yourself, brunch at The Mayton Inn before a spa day is a perfect way to relax. Let them cook you up a fine plate of buttermilk fried chicken and waffles, topped with warm honey, with a freshly brewed cup of iced coffee. You can then relax in the spa with your taste buds satisfied and enjoy a perfect start to your day. 
   
   
5. Guglhupf Bakery, Cafe & Biergarten – 2706 Durham-Chapel Hill Blvd., Durham, NC 27707
   A German bakery meets Biergarten at this can't miss brunch spot! Local ingredients are used to create the tasty brunch cuisine with traditional southern German roots. Recently, their cafe has re-opened with expanded patio dining for you to enjoy your brunch outside. Be sure to stop by, check out their rotating menu, and order a Danish (or two). 

Looking for a home with a kitchen for you to make brunch every Saturday morning? We can help! Contact us today to tour our best homes for sale around Raleigh, Cary, and Durham.

Football season is back! Both the NFL and NCAA kick off their seasons this weekend. While it may take some getting used to, given the circumstances, it's a sport loved by many to watch and play. For those of you who have been teetering with the thought of a new home, maybe it's time to kick off your own season: house-hunting season!

Our Coldwell Banker Howard Perry and Walston real estate agents have listed some beautiful homes that are sure to catch your eye. We think one of them is bound to be a touchdown (aka your dream home).

Check out a complete list of our open houses so that you can game plan which homes you'd like to tour on Saturday and Sunday.

We are committed to maintaining reliable service to our clients while doing our part to limit the spread of the COVID-19. In order to protect both our clients and agents, we are asking everyone to please take precautionary measures when visiting our open houses. And if attending an open house still isn't in the cards for you then have no fear, we have numerous virtual tours of these amazing homes.

Featured Open Houses

11917 Sycamore Grove Lane, Raleigh, NC 27614

$365,000

Sq Ft: 3,030 | Beds: 4 | Baths: 2 (full) 1 (1/2)

Open House: Saturday, September 12 from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m.

208 Cotten Drive, Morrisville, NC 27560

$595,000

Sq Ft: 3,335 | Beds: 4 | Baths: 3 (full) 1 (1/2)

Open House: Saturday, September 12 from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. and

Sunday, September 13 from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

807 Glenwood Avenue, Raleigh, NC 27605

$899,900

Sq Ft: 3,274 | Beds: 4 | Baths: 3 (full) 1 (1/2)

Open House: Saturday, September 12 from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. and

Sunday, September 13 from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m.

1216 Hannahs View Drive, Raleigh, NC 27615

$1,075,000

Sq Ft: 4,220 | Beds: 4 | Baths: 4 (full) 2 (1/2)

Open House: Saturday, September 12 from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. and

Sunday, September 13 from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m.

8300 Covington Hill Way, Apex, NC 27539

$699,000

Sq Ft: 4,105 | Beds: 5 | Baths: 4 (full) 2 (1/2)

Open House: Sunday, September 13 from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m.

2700 Stonewalk Court, Zebulon, NC 27597

$434,500

Sq Ft: 3,241 | Beds: 3 | Baths: 2 (full) 2 (1/2)

Open House: Sunday, September 13 from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m.

2607 White Cross Road, Chapel Hill, NC 27516

$514,900

Sq Ft: 2,220 | Beds: 3 | Baths: 2 (full) 1 (1/2)

Open House: Sunday, September 13 from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m.

You've prepared your home for the market, attracted a buyer, received an offer, the finish line is in sight... but a home inspection still stands between you and closing the deal. Handling the home inspection process is easier when you know exactly what to expect, how to prepare, and how the results of the home inspection can impact your transaction. Our real estate agents are here to help you prepare with our guide for what to expect from your home inspection.

• Why a Home Inspection Is Crucial to Closing the Deal
  When a buyer is shopping for Raleigh homes for sale and decides to make an offer, their offer will typically be made with a "home inspection contingency" to protect them if there are issues with the inspection. This contingency allows the buyer to revise their offer based on the inspection, or withdraw the offer entirely if the inspection reveals serious issues. A smooth inspection can pave the way for the final steps of your transaction.

• What the Inspector Will Be Looking for Outdoors
  The inspector will generally start by checking the outside of your home, including the siding, roof, foundation, patios, and the land around your home. They will look for landscaping issues like overgrown trees that may affect the home, and check for proper drainage to see whether the home is susceptible to water damage. They will also look for any areas where inside meets outside, like vents, pipes, and other openings.

• Key Areas the Inspector Will Check Indoors
  Inside of the home, the inspector will check key home systems like plumbing, HVAC systems, electrical systems, and your water heater. They will check the water pressure of the home, and look for signs of leaks. In areas like the kitchen and bathroom where water damage is common, the inspector will check ventilation. They will also look for any building code violations, and check for fire safety.

• What a Home Inspection Won't Reveal
  While the inspector may spot signs of serious issues like foundation damage, septic system problems, or issues with your well, their report won't be the final word on those problems. Instead, if the general inspection reveals issues in those areas, a specialized inspector will need to come for a thorough review.

• How to Prepare for a Home Inspection
  The most important thing you can do to prepare for a home inspection is to address any maintenance issues – major or minor – before your inspection. This is especially important if there are issues with key systems like plumbing and electricity, or high-priority areas like the foundation or roof. To make the inspector's life easier when they arrive, make sure that the interior of your home is clean, the inspector has easy access to key systems, and outdoor areas are clear of debris.

• What to Expect After Your Home Inspection Is Finished
  If the home inspection doesn't reveal any serious issues, then you're one big step nearer to closing the deal. If there are issues with the inspection that the buyer wasn't aware of previously, then they may want to renegotiate the deal to account for the cost of repairs.

Still searching for the right buyer to make an attractive offer for your home? The right real estate team makes all the difference. Contact us to buy and sell homes throughout the Raleigh, NC area.

Can you believe this weekend marks the start of September? Fall is right around the corner which means sweaters and pumpkin spice everything. And then after that, it's on to Halloween, then Thanksgiving and then Christmas. What better way to enjoy all of these upcoming holidays than in a new home? Maybe you want a big front porch to sit out on and hand out candy to all of the trick-or-treaters. Or maybe you want a bigger dining room, so you can finally host Thanksgiving dinner at your place. Or maybe you want a two-story living room, so you can get the biggest and tallest Christmas tree ever.

No matter your reasons for wanting a new home, our Coldwell Banker Howard Perry and Walston real estate agents are ready to help. In fact, you can start by visiting them at their open houses this weekend!

Check out a complete list of our open houses to figure out which homes you'd like to tour on Saturday and Sunday.

We are committed to maintaining reliable service to our clients while doing our part to limit the spread of the COVID-19. In order to protect both our clients and agents, we are asking everyone to please take precautionary measures when visiting our open houses. And if attending an open house still isn't in the cards for you then have no fear, we have numerous virtual tours of these amazing homes.

Featured Open Houses

827 Bankston Woods Way, Raleigh, NC 27609

$429,900

Sq Ft: 2,569 | Beds: 3 | Baths: 3 (full) 1 (1/2)

Open House: Saturday, September 5 from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m.

211 N Church Street, Louisburg, NC 27549

$275,000

Sq Ft: 2,7168| Beds: 4 | Baths: 2 (full)

Open House: Saturday, September 5 from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m.

1804 Lodestar Drive, Raleigh, NC 27615

$449,900

Sq Ft: 2,765 | Beds: 4 | Baths: 2 (full) 1 (1/2)

Open House: Saturday, September 5 from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m.

50 Kathleen Court, Youngsville, NC 27596

$317,000

Sq Ft: 2,084 | Beds: 3 | Baths: 2 (full) 1 (1/2)

Open House: Saturday, September 5 from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. and

Sunday, September 6 from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m.

1201 Hannahs View Drive, Raleigh, NC 27615

$1,475,000

Sq Ft: 4,724 | Beds: 4 | Baths: 4 (full) 1 (1/2)

Open House: Saturday, September 5 from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. and

Sunday, September 6 from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

11917 Sycamore Grove Lane, Raleigh, NC 27614

$375,000

Sq Ft: 3,030 | Beds: 4 | Baths: 2 (full) 1 (1/2)

Open House: Sunday, September 6 from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m.

A spare bedroom can come in handy for overnight guests, but if this is a rare occurrence in your home, the space is often better utilized for everyday use. The extra room can be transformed in many different ways to suit your family's needs.

Our real estate agents suggest the following 7 ways to put a spare bedroom to use and to make it your favorite space in your home:

1. Mudroom
   A spare bedroom that's near the front door can be utilized as a mudroom-like storage space. You'll need shelving and cubbies to store shoes, kids' backpacks, and other items. Hooks for coats and jackets will also be needed, and you can finish off the space with bench topped with a padded cushion so you can sit on it to take your shoes on or off.
   
   
2. Reading Area
   A quiet room where you can get away from it all and curl up with a good book may be just the thing if you like to read. Add some shelving, a few comfortable chairs, some artwork, and cozy accessories like throw pillows or blankets, and you'll have the basics taken care of. You can also choose appropriate artwork if you'd like to spruce up the room, and good lighting is a must so you can see to read without any difficulty.
   
   
3. Dressing Room
   Converting a spare bedroom into a dressing room gives you the space to store your clothing, shoes, jewelry, and other accessories neatly, as well as giving you a roomy space to get dressed. Best of all, you can emphasize the type of storage you need the most. So if you're into shoes, for example, pull out shoe racks may be a priority for you. Also include features like shelving, seating, a mirror that reflects you from head to toe, and closet accessories to store belts, scarves, and more.
   
   
4. Yoga Room
   If you're into yoga but usually end up pulling your mat out into a family living area, a spare bedroom can be converted into a quiet, soothing space to practice some moves. Decorate it in soothing tones with warm lighting and create your own yoga studio with just a mat or add some extras like yoga straps or bolsters. And to practice moves safely, make sure the room is large enough to keep you safely away from any walls or furniture.
   
   
5. Study Room
   If you have school-age kids, why not provide them with a quiet space to work in? This also frees up space in their bedrooms and keeps the kitchen table cleared off. Good lighting is key when you're creating a study room, as are plenty of desk space and all the tools and supplies they'll need.
   
   
6. Home Theater
   Home theaters are popular spots to gather and spend time with your family at home while watching a movie. Invest in comfortable seating and a projector or large TV, and if you'd like, add some touches like a popcorn machine or framed movie posters.
   
   
7. Sewing or Craft Room
   Sewing and crafts can take up a lot of space and leave you struggling to take your supplies out and put them away each time you want to use them. A dedicated sewing or craft studio lets you have storage units and boxes or baskets that suit your individual needs and large tables, bolts of fabric, or other supplies ready to use when you need them.

Contact us to look at Raleigh homes for sale. We'll help you find a home that has extra features you'd love to have, such as a spare bedroom.