Home Buying | 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...

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...

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...

Latest Charlotte Real Estate Market Report

Buyer demand in Charlotte remains strong, according to the latest Charlotte real estate market report for the end of May, 2018. The strong economy, positive unemployment forecasts and steady growth in payrolls strengthens Charlotte home buyer confidence. Meanwhile, the Charlotte housing inventory continues to shrink. Yet, despite this, Charlotte pending home sales in May, 2018 are 9.7% higher than they were in May 2017, according to a summary written by Jenna Martin, Associate Editor/Online of … Continue reading...

Grow Your Business In Charlotte

Looking for a great city to grow your business? Grow your business in Charlotte! The Charlotte Chamber seeks businesses interested in relocation or expansion. Did you know that Mecklenburg County companies made nearly $819 million in capital investments in the area? Seriously! This equated to adding or improving 8.4 million square feet of commercial real estate. That's following the adding or improving 11 million square feet of real estate and $1.1 billion in capital investments in … Continue reading...

Consider Replacing Old Outlets With AFCI/GFCI Dual Functioning Devices

For safety's sake, consider replacing your old outlets. Did you know that 14,000 electrical home fires could be prevented each year in the U.S. by replacing old outlets with these modern outlets? AFCI/GFCI dual functioning outlets to help lower the risk of electrical shock and home fires. The National Electrical Code already requires GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) outlets during remodels or new construction of kitchens, garages, and bathrooms for years. It also already requires AFCI … Continue reading...

Remodeling? When Does The 2018 NC Building Code Take Effect?

If planning a remodeling project in the future, you might find it interesting that the 2012 NC Building Code is still in effect. Indeed! Even though the Building Code Council adopted the 2018 North Carolina Building Code last summer, the 2012 code still applies. See, the 2018 North Carolina Building Code (Except Electrical) goes into later than July, 2018. Then, at that point both Codes are permitted for use. Either is acceptable for a minimum of six months. During the overlap, either the … Continue reading...

Weddington Residents: Interested In Participating On An Advisory Board?

Do you live in (or planning to move to) the Town of Weddington? If you feel your voice could help shape Weddington, you might consider applying to sit on an advisory board. Weddington has multiple citizen advisory boards. The town established these advisory boards so that residents has a means to give input in a more comprehensive way. Citizens participating in the advisory boards provide support and advice to members of the town council. Their voices influence the outcomes of many areas of town … Continue reading...