Buyers | Charlotte University, Ballantyne and Lake Norman Homes

Charlotte’s Tree Ordinance

Charlotte's tree ordinance was originally adopted in 1978. Charlotte's tree ordinance protects trees in the public right of way. Most people know that. But it also protects trees located on private property to as they relate to development: It requires tree-planting with new construction. To see the guidelines for the City of Charlotte's tree ordinance, click here. It covers the requirements for commercial properties and new developments in the urban and suburban Charlotte areas. This is … Continue reading...

A Look At Hurricane Florence’s Impact On Charlotte Real Estate

Despite a small slip in the real estate investment market, Charlotte continued to show signs of strength. It seems investors are still willing to put their money on beautiful Charlotte. Jim Hitt, CEO of American IRA was quoted in a press release saying that the future of Charlotte real estate still looks incredibly strong: "And what we see here is a broad context of underlying strength for North Carolina real estate. Those people who want to invest in real estate for retirement purposes know … Continue reading...

Florence And Michael Brought Big Questions About Tree Removal Responsibility

After Hurricane Florence and Tropical Storm Michael downed trees in Charlotte, many homeowners were frustrated with the tree removal efforts. The city’s right-of-way can be up to 15 feet into a residential lot in some places, but in others, it’s just a few feet. The city is only responsible for maintenance and clean up of trees within its right-of-way. If you’re planning to move into a new home in Charlotte, it’s not a bad idea to to determine if a tree will be your responsibility to maintain … Continue reading...

Update On Gateway Station- Charlotte Passenger Rail

Charlotte officials are finally breaking ground on Gateway Station, the station that will restart passenger rail service to uptown. Don't get too excited just yet though. These things take time. We probably won't see the first train utilizing it for about four more years. Right now, think of it as the opportunity for an investment. Homes that will one day have access leading straight uptown are sure to increase in value when Gateway Station is finally up an running. The first phase alone will … Continue reading...

Dance and Theatre Opportunities in Charlotte, NC

The City of Charlotte hosts a variety of first-rate and whole-heart theater opportunities featuring players and dancers of every age and skill level. We do have a few favorite music and drama related organizations though. If you're like one of the many people interested in moving to Charlotte, check out the following dance and theatre opportunities in Charlotte. Actor’s Theatre of Charlotte - contemporary performances in an intimate setting Moving Poet’s Dance Theatre -check out some of … Continue reading...

Stop Renting! An MCC & The NC Home Advantage Mortgage Can Help

North Carolina housing down payment assistance

Too many people think they're stuck renting, but help is out there. Some programs specifically exist to help renters with low to moderate income achieve home ownership. Mortgage Credit Certificate (MCC) The NC Housing Finance Agency lets qualifying home owners claim a tax credit up to $2,000 every year they live in the home. The Mortgage Credit Certificate (MCC) can significantly reduce your federal income liability and leave you with more money to put toward mortgage payments. Typically, it … Continue reading...

How The Latest Version Of FICO Will Score Credit Differently

Did you know that some lenders are already looking at a new credit scoring model called the FICO Score 9? It's still not as widely used, but as it catches on, it might mean the difference between your mortgage denial and your mortgage approval. It could also get you a better rate over the rate you'd get if the lender uses the FICO 8 scoring model. So, as you probably know, credit scores typically range from 300 to 850. They let lenders know how risky it is to lend you money. The principal … Continue reading...