Category Archives: Real Estate Tips

Real Estate Tips

Sarah Drummond Recognized for Internet Marketing Excellence

Leave a comment

As featured in the Gaston Gazette on October 26th, 2010

Gastonia, North Carolina, October 20th, 2010 — REALTOR.com® National Speaker, Joe Sesso, has presented to Sarah Drummond of Carolina Living Real Estate the “Real Estate Online Marketing Award of Excellence”. The Award of Excellence recognizes top agents who consistently provide great marketing services on behalf of their buyers and sellers.

“There are always some real estate agents who distinguish themselves from other agents by doing a little more for their sellers. In particular; when the home they are selling is placed on a well trafficked site such as the 1st ranked REALTOR.com®,1 even simple efforts like having more photos displayed, crafting better descriptions or adding a full motion video, can make a home stand out from competing properties,” says Mr. Sesso.

The excellence award was presented to Sarah Drummond at a recent real estate marketing and technology seminar that demonstrated cutting edge techniques for leveraging the internet and technology in real estate marketing.

Sarah Drummond says, “My seller clients appreciate how I can help bring more attention to the unique selling attributes of their home and ultimately help attract more qualified buyers. Sellers who have worked with me can attest to the fact that home photography is one of the aspects of my job I take most seriously—and have the most fun with at the same time! I love making each listing look amazing online and in all my marketing pieces. Sellers like the fact that REALTOR.com offers a feature that allows them to monitor how many views their listing is getting on the website. I think buyers are also appreciative of a well-presented home and a website that offers a better description and more ways to learn about the property online before arranging an appointment. While it’s certainly an honor to receive this award, I think ultimately it would be a disservice not to make REALTOR.com® and the internet part of my standard home marketing plan. I market my listings heavily on several major real estate websites (and even YouTube); and REALTOR.com is certainly one of my favorite avenues for online advertising.”

“The extra steps agents like Sarah Drummond are taking on behalf of their clients is the reason we thought it worthwhile to call out the effort we have seen these agents make online and to recognize them for providing these added value services,” says Mr. Sesso.

REALTOR.com® is just one of the many ways Sarah Drummond is leveraging recent trends in home buyer online behavior to her clients’ benefit. Home sellers interested in finding out how to have their home marketed on REALTOR.com® should contact Sarah at 704-604-8849 or email sarahdrummond.realtor@gmail.com.

Real Estate Tips, Uncategorized

Amy Acres–South Gastonia Homes in a Country Atmosphere

Leave a comment

Located off Little Mountain Road in South Gastonia, Amy Acres subdivision is a perfect destination for homebuyers in the $80-100,000 price range looking for one-floor living in a quiet country setting with lots of room to breathe. The homes are constructed mostly of wood or hardboard siding, with a few being brick or vinyl. Built in the 1980s, they average around 1200 square feet and normally feature three bedrooms and two baths. Many have fireplaces. Carports are common, and a few homes offer garages as well. This peaceful neighborhood has no HOA, and families will enjoy having plenty of space for outdoor living. The homes in Amy Acres come with especially large lots; each home typically includes at least one half to one full acre–sometimes even more.

The schools are: H.H. Beam Elementary, Southwest Middle School and Forestview High School.

The location is ideal, as the subdivision is conveniently situated between the shopping venues at the Union Rd/ Robinwood Rd. intersection (including Harris Teeter and Food Lion) and all the businesses and restaurants on York Highway (or 321). Amy Acres is an excellent subdivision for anyone who commutes using Highway 321. Being close to the South Carolina border has its advantages; Clover, SC is less than 10 miles away.

The beautifully wooded and gently rolling hills of South Gastonia provide a serene backdrop for this lovely neighborhood. Those living in Amy Acres will come home each day to a peaceful haven from the commotion of daily life.

”amy homes for sale

Listings 1 - 0 of 0


The data relating to real estate on this Web site derive in part from the Carolina Multiple Listing Services, Inc. IDX program. Brokers make an effort to deliver accurate information, but buyers should independently verify any information on which they will rely in a transaction. All properties are subject to prior sale, change or withdrawal. Neither Carolina Living Real Estate nor any listing broker shall be responsible for any typographical errors, misinformation, or misprints, and they shall be held totally harmless from any damages arising from reliance upon this data. This data is provided exclusively for consumers -- personal, non-commercial use and may not be used for any purpose other than to identify prospective properties they may be interested in purchasing. © 2024 Carolina Multiple Listing Services, Inc.
Data updated April 18, 2024
Real Estate Tips

Opening Doors to Gastonia and Lincolnton Homes

Leave a comment

Beautiful Front Door in Gastonia HomeIt’s the first to greet buyers when touring your home and possibly the last image that will be captured in their minds as they leave.  The front door you choose for your home makes a statement and sets the stage for everything that will be seen inside.  When preparing to sell your home in Gaston or Lincoln County, it helps to know which type of front door is best for the character of your home and which will offer the highest return on your investment. 

Read about the pros and cons of steel, fiberglass, and wood exterior doors here.  

Real Estate Tips

Want to Add Curb Appeal? A Beautiful Yard Frames Your Home and Showcases its Best Features.

Leave a comment

Landscaping adds curb appealNow is a great time to consider the value of your home’s landscaping.  As competitive as the market  in the Gaston/Lincoln County area is right now, it is more necessary than ever to make a positive first impression on potential buyers.  Since the yard is the first feature they will notice, whether driving by or viewing pictures of your listing online,  the importance of appropriate and attractive landscaping cannot be overlooked.

Here are four easy steps anyone can follow to enhance the landscaping of a home.

Real Estate Tips, Uncategorized

Pine Creek–Gastonia Homes in the $120-190,000 Price Range

Leave a comment

Pine Creek subdivision is a great place to find Gastonia homes sure to please almost everyone in the $120-190,000 price range, from the traditional colonial-inspired vynil 2-story to the full brick ranch and everything in between. With homes between 1,500 and 2,000 square feet built in the mid-to-late 80s, Pine Creek offers a broad scope of options in type and style, all on at least 1/3 of an acre–often more! The ranches typically feature 3 bedrooms and 2 baths; a few of the Cape Cod style 1.5 story homes feature 4 bedrooms; and the 2-stories are traditional and usually offer 3 bedrooms and 2 1/2 baths. This family-friendly subdivision has no HOA.

The local public schools are: Robinson Elementary, Cramerton Middle, and Forestview High. Gaston Day School is also nearby.

The southeast Gastonia location is superb, with access to I-85 less than 5 miles away. The subdivision entrance is located on Hoffman Rd., in the heart of the beatifully well-kept, gently rolling, tree-lined residential area situated between two of Gastonia’s vital arteries–Union Rd. and Gaston Day School (Cox) Rd. Traveling just a short distance north on Hoffman Rd., you will find a new contemporary McDonald’s with a lovely outdoor cafe, a Lowe’s Foods with a gas station, and an adjoining complex that offers Hickory Tavern and Lotus Bar and Eatery. Traveling south on Robinwood, you will find a Food Lion and a Harris Teeter, along with all the commerce on Union Rd–banks, drugstores, fast food chains, etc. The Gaston County Family YMCA is not far.

For weekend family recreation, Martha Rivers park is just 2 miles away and offers a new playground, sports complex, walking trails, and picnic shelters.

pine creek homes for sale

Listings 1 - 0 of 0


The data relating to real estate on this Web site derive in part from the Carolina Multiple Listing Services, Inc. IDX program. Brokers make an effort to deliver accurate information, but buyers should independently verify any information on which they will rely in a transaction. All properties are subject to prior sale, change or withdrawal. Neither Carolina Living Real Estate nor any listing broker shall be responsible for any typographical errors, misinformation, or misprints, and they shall be held totally harmless from any damages arising from reliance upon this data. This data is provided exclusively for consumers -- personal, non-commercial use and may not be used for any purpose other than to identify prospective properties they may be interested in purchasing. © 2024 Carolina Multiple Listing Services, Inc.
Data updated April 18, 2024
Real Estate Tips, Your Community

Looking for Gastonia Real Estate? Try Cambridge Estates.

Leave a comment


Living in Cambridge Estates affords residents a unique opportunity to enjoy a beautiful, peaceful community with stately homes and lovely lots that is located in arguably the most convenient and commuter-friendly area of Gastonia. Traveling to Charlotte is a breeze, as I-85 can be accessed at Exit 22 in a matter of minutes.

Local avenues for shopping and dining are plentiful; Franklin Square is nearby to the west along with many restarants lining Franklin Boulevard, including Schlotzky’s Deli, Applebee’s, Zaxby’s and Chili’s. A Food Lion shopping center in Cramerton can be found by a taking pleasant trip down Gaston Rd.(where one might even see a few cows!) to the east. A Bi-Lo and a Lowe’s Foods can be found by taking a short trip south of the subdivision.

The homes, many of which were built by local builder Steve Early, range from ranches to 1.5 stories to 2-stories, all within the 2,000 square foot range. Some are full brick and others feature a partial brick veneer, and quality details such as dentil molding accents are prevalent. Architectural styles range from the very traditional to the more contemporary.

Cambridge Estates is a family subdivision; the local public schools are Lowell Elementary, Holbrook Middle School, and Ashbrook High School. Also, Gaston Christian School is less than a mile away, on Lowell-Bethesda Road. Families will find this subdivision extremely livable–in addition to saving gas money by not having to travel far for the necessities of life, HOA dues in Cambridge Estates are just $60 per year.

A creek runs behind the subdivision, allowing residents the benefits of having access to it and enjoying the sound of the running water through the trees. It adds to the illusion that you are experiencing a more rural environment, while the heart of Gastonia and the gateway to all that Charlotte offers is right outside your back door!

”cambridge homes for sale

Listings 1 - 0 of 0


The data relating to real estate on this Web site derive in part from the Carolina Multiple Listing Services, Inc. IDX program. Brokers make an effort to deliver accurate information, but buyers should independently verify any information on which they will rely in a transaction. All properties are subject to prior sale, change or withdrawal. Neither Carolina Living Real Estate nor any listing broker shall be responsible for any typographical errors, misinformation, or misprints, and they shall be held totally harmless from any damages arising from reliance upon this data. This data is provided exclusively for consumers -- personal, non-commercial use and may not be used for any purpose other than to identify prospective properties they may be interested in purchasing. © 2024 Carolina Multiple Listing Services, Inc.
Data updated April 18, 2024

 

 

Real Estate Tips

Charlotte Real Estate Investor Services

Leave a comment

Charlotte NC Real Estate Investors

 

Carolina Living Property Management provides a comprehensive package of property management and maintenance services to our client’s property throughout the Charlotte region. Our goal is to make the ownership of investment properties both profitable and worry-free. We know the concerns that all owners have, and handle each and every property as if it were our own.

How we assist investors with their real estate investments.

  • New Listings for Properties to Purchase Delivered to you Daily
  • Arranging Financing for Investment Property Purchases
  • Aggressive Marketing of your property For Sale or For Rent
  • Prospective Tenant Interviews and Screening
  • Security Deposit and Rent Collections
  • Maintenance Services
  • Equity and Cap Rate Analysis on your current Investment Property Portfolio

If you would like a financial analysis of your current properties, don’t hesitate to let us know. It’s free!

Please call us for a list of investment properties currently for sale at (704)-746-3937. You may also email us at info@YourCharlottePropertyManagement.com

Real Estate Tips

Determining The Value Of Your Charlotte Area Home

Leave a comment

charlotte real estate

Mortgages depend significantly on the value of the property that is involved. Consequently, it become important to know how much a property is worth before heading into refinancing plans, looking for a home loan, or selling a house.

One way to do this is to determine the market value of the property. A simple way to do this is to look at other comparable homes in the same neighborhood and see what prices they have been sold recently. One of your Carolina Living Realtors can assist you with this and will come at no cost to you.

Another way to find the value of your property is to find its appraised value. To do this you need to pay for the help of a trained and licensed professional. They will take into account a variety of factors, including the home’s square footage, construction quality, floor plan, design, surrounding neighborhood, proximity to important services and locations, as well as the landscaping, among other factors. An appraiser will usually cost anywhere between $200 and $300. In the current Lake Norman real estate environment, appraisals have become pivitol in the actual sale of the property. Short sales and foreclosures in the Lake Norman area have caused some of our appraisal values to decrease causing transactions to fail to close.

An appraiser can also tell you the replacement value of the property. This is how much an appraiser estimates it will cost to build a similar house on an unoccupied lot. The appraiser will take the age of the home into account to make a better estimate with deterioration and depreciation in mind.

One important thing to note is that a home’s estimated value is not the same as its worth. A home’s estimated value is defined by one of the methods listed above, while its worth is eventually established by what potential buyers are willing to pay for it.

Some things we have experienced in the Charlote and surrounding areas.

  • Tax value does NOT determine value of the home. It has nothing to do with market value.
  • Neighbors do not know the value of a home. Of course they are wanting values of homes to be very high.
  • Current list prices of homes, while helpful, do not determine the value of a home.