If you’re considering relocating to the Cary, North Carolina region, you should know that there’s a virtually endless list of things to do and see. So when you make a trip here to house hunt, be sure to ask your Cary, North Carolina realtor about some of the major attractions in the area, one of which is the extraordinary Booth Amphitheater.

Booth Amphitheater is a unique regional outdoor attraction for arts and entertainment events. It’s located in a tranquil park-like setting sprinkled with hardwood and pine trees. Symphony Lake adds a serene presence to this beautiful venue. The amphitheater holds about 7000 people with both lawn and deck seating available.

The North Carolina Symphony calls Booth its home in the summer months. The casual atmosphere is a radical departure from the formal music hall ambiance. The amphitheater blends seamlessly with the natural setting to create a unique audience experience. The season at Booth runs from April through October. There’s an eclectic mix of programs and performers, including “moonlight movie nights,” a family favorite.

In late November, the amphitheater is transformed into “Tinsel Town,” a winter wonderland that includes an outdoor rink for ice skating. Skate rentals are available on site.

“Preferred” parking costs $10, but there are plenty of free spaces available as well. Lawn chairs and blankets are permitted and chair rental is available for $5. Guests can bring along a bottle of factory-sealed water and there’s a unique “Virtual Cafe” where guests can order food on line and pick it up on site.

Booth Amphitheater is truly a jewel in the crown of the Cary, NC region that every realtor in Cary, North Carolina is proud to mention to newcomers.

If you’re new to the area or considering a move to Cary, North Carolina, you should know that there are activities for every taste in the region. So when you’re looking for real property for sale in Cary NC, why not take the time to find out more about some of Cary’s unique attractions? A good example of a home-grown cultural institution is Cary Players.

Formed in 2001, Cary Players is community theater where everyday people from the area can audition for and perform in theatrical productions. It’s mission is ” to provide the citizens of Cary and surrounding areas with the means by which they may develop, enhance and showcase theatrical talents.” The organization also seeks to enrich and enlighten “social and cultural experiences via a diverse offering of excellent theatrical productions.” Cary Players is a patron-centered enterprise that seeks to inspire and uplift those who attend its productions.

One of Cary Players’ recent productions is “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” by William Shakespeare, performed in Bond Park’s Sertoma Amphitheater. Set in an ethereal enchanted wood, the play is a romantic comedy that has something for everyone. Cary Players ambitious undertaking of one of Shakespeare’s most beloved plays underscores the company’s excellence and dedication.

For home-grown talent and superior entertainment, be sure to take in a performance by Cary Players. If you’re new to the region and seeking Cary NC real property for sale, why not consider auditioning yourself? It’s bound to be an amazing experience!

If you’re looking for real property for sale in Cary, North Carolina, you should know that this vibrant region is home to a burgeoning arts community. Add to that the many craftsmen in the area and you have the makings of a great event like the “Lazy Daze Arts and Crafts Festival.” Held every August, Lazy Daze attracts hundreds of artisans and exhibitors and over 50,000 people to its venue in downtown Cary. The festival also features entertainment on multiple stages and a great variety of food and drink.

Lazy Daze is a day-long event that features a staggering variety of handmade goods, including jewelry, pottery, home decor, clothing, holiday ornaments, leather, wood crafting, metal work, carvings, paintings and more. For true local flavor, many of the area’s restaurant’s have booths featuring their culinary specialties. With an abundance of clean restroom facilities, parking and excellent handicap access, Lazy Daze is very user-friendly. In fact, Cary provides shuttle bus service from major parking areas right to the festival and there’s an Amtrak train station just one block away.

The event is very nearly a food festival as well, featuring an amazing array of culinary specialties like sirloin burgers, hot dogs, corn on the cob, grilled chicken and steak, sausage, fish tacos and much, much more. There’s even a roving water cart and fresh squeezed lemonade.

So if you”re considering Cary, North Carolina real property for sale, remember that there’s no shortage of interesting and enjoyable events in the region.

When you’re searching for realty for sale in Cary North Carolina, finding the right home is important to both you and your family. Everyone wants to find a neighborhood where they feel welcome and relaxed. The same is true for your pets. If you own a dog, Cary’s annual “Dog Days” celebration is not to be missed.

“Dog Days” is a day-long, fun-filled outdoor celebration of our canine friends. The event includes a charity raffle, Frisbee competition, vaccination clinic, adoption center, information from animal rescue groups and shelters and much more. If your dog is friendly and outgoing, leash them up and head for the park!

The high point of the day-long event is the exciting “dog disc” competition. The competition welcomes dogs of all ages and breeds and is a unique event because the teams consist of canines and humans! The canine team members must catch a Frisbee thrown by the human team members. Teams are judged on accuracy and distance. Spectators cheer their favorites on, making for a highly entertaining event that tests each team’s expertise. This is an easy “toss and fetch” competition. Unlike “freestyle” events that have choreographed routines, any dog that can run and retrieve a Frisbee has a chance to win.

This is only one of the fun and unique events newcomers will find in the region. Why not take a moment to explore the many fun and enjoyable local activities while you’re looking at Cary North Carolina realty for sale?

Ask any Cary NC realtor about things to do in the region and he or she is sure to mention the colorful and exciting Kite Festival. From rookies to experts, this unique event celebrates high-flying kites of all shapes, sizes and styles. From stunt kite demonstrations to a large number of categories and awards, this is a family event that’s free and open to the public.

There are over 15 categories for competitors, including serious ones like “most unique kite,” “largest kite” and “kite farthest out.” To add to the fun, there are also humorous categories like “best crash,” “best tangle” and “most un-flyable kite.” Another lively event is the ”quickest takeoff,” where a shotgun start begins the competition. Skill demonstrations occur throughout the day. An awards ceremony honors the winners, including “youngest flyer,” “oldest flyer” and “most generations flying a kite.” 

Prior to the festival, there are kite-making classses for children. Art classes with names like “Kite Capers” and “High in the Sky” are also featured. Kites of all types, homemade or store-bought, are welcome in the festival. In fact, there’s an award for the ”best homemade kite.” Spectators will enjoy the thrilling sight of boldly colored kites soaring higher and higher above the treetops. This is a great event for active families who enjoy the outdoors.

Your realtor in Cary NC is great resource for much more than just properties for sale. Be sure to ask about events that will give newcomers a good feel for life in the region.

North Carolina is a great place to live and work. When considering realty for sale in Cary NC, many people also explore the area for things to do and see. Visitors and residents alike flock to historic attractions all over the region. Here’s some information about exciting day trips in and around Cary.

History buffs will enjoy visiting the 18th century towns in the region. Edenton, the colonial capital of North Carolina is less than 150 miles from the Raleigh metroplex. Called the “Prettiest Town in the South,” Edenton was founded in 1712. With a wealth of well-preserved districts and buildings, a visit to Edenton transports you back to pre-revolutionary days. Elizabeth City, founded in the 1650s, isn’t far from Edenton. Near Elizabeth City is Manteo, where you can discover the legends and lore of the fabled “Lost Colony.”

Another great historic site in the area is Williamston. This picturesque 19th century town has 2 districts on the National Register of Historic Places and is a wonderful example of how people lived and worked in the 19th and early 20th centuries. The historic districts contain numerous examples of architecture of the period and evoke a strong impression of life in bygone eras.

Windsor pre-dates Williamston by about 10 years and was once a bustling port. Visitors can enjoy a stroll on the boardwalk while taking in the scenery and sights. Windsor is home to the customs house and bank that served the town’s many sea-faring interests. Just outside Windsor the beautiful Hope Plantation, an antebellum plantation that dates from the 1720s.

If you’re looking for Cary NC realty for sale, also be sure to visit some of the many historic attractions in the area. You’re sure to come away with a deep and abiding respect for North Carolina’s American roots.

In 2005, a newspaper in Raleigh NC, the News and Observer, published an article titled “Barbeque Highway,” by Fred Thompson. Thompson’s culinary journey took him all over the state in search of perfect barbeque. The name stuck and now from the coastal areas to the extreme western regions, North Carolina’s Barbeque Highway attracts aficionados from all over the country.

If you’re a newcomer to the region or considering realty for sale in Cary, North Carolina, a trip along the Barbecue Highway is a great way to get acquainted with the region’s amazing cuisine.

The White Swan Bar-B-Q in Smithfield has been serving up delicious barbeque for nearly 50 years. Their delicious and unique sauce is made with vinegar and spices that perfectly compliments the smoky character of ribs and chicken. Slow cooked for optimal flavor and tenderness, the barbecue at the White Swan is mouthwatering. A traditional side dish of succulent cole slaw completes your experience at the White Swan.

Wilber’s Barbecue, where several notable Americans have eaten, including President George W. Bush Sr., President Bill Clinton, Governor Jim Hunt, Governor Terry Sanford and Senator Jesse Helms. Serving barbecue cooked in a pit over smoldering, aromatic oak wood, a platter at Wilber’s comes heaped high with accompaniments like cole slaw, potato salad and hush puppies for a great all-American meal.

McCall’s BBQ & Seafood Restaurant features a unique combination of authentic barbecue and delicious seafood dishes, which makes for many interesting platters. Choose from barbecued pork paired with fried chicken, barbecued chicken or tasty Brunswick stew. Brunswick stew is a traditional dish in the US southeast that contains a variety of ingredients, including meat, game and vegetables.

Taking a detour to one of these regional treasures while you’re visiting Cary North Carolina realty for sale is a great way to experience a true Southern culinary mainstay.

The Museum’s Mission

The museum, under the auspices of the Division of State History Museums, has the mandate to “collect and preserve artifacts and other historical materials and heritage of North Carolina in a local, regional, national and international context to assist people in understanding how the past influences the present. The Division interprets the state’s history through exhibitions, educational programs and publications available to the visitor on-site or through distance-learning technologies.” Some of the permanent exhibits in the museum include decorative arts, the military history of the state and the North Carolina sports hall of fame. Special programs include family events, concerts and craft demonstrations.

Current Exhibits

“The Power of 3″ focuses on NASCAR drivers Dale Earnhardt, Sr., Junior Johnson and Richard Childress, all of whom drove race cars that carried the number 3. A must-see for car racing fans.

“Knights of the Black Flag” explores of the adventures and legacy of pirates, from ancient times to the present. On display are artifacts that evoke both history and legend. Sure to be a hit with children.

“1920s Drug Store” recreates a typical drug store from the “Roaring 20s” era. Included are a classic soda fountain with a marble counter and the workroom where the pharmacist created medicines. Great for the nostalgia buff.

“Pleasing to the Eye: The Decorative Arts of North Carolina” includes items from the 1600s to the 1900s. Furniture, textiles, ceramics, portraits, metalwork and silver are featured. A must for crafters.

“Everyday Artistry” shows how rural North Carolinians decorated humble objects they used daily, like tools, furnishings and quilts. Collectors will enjoy this exhibit

North Carolina’s rich and diverse history finds expression in the state’s museums. If you’re new to the area or looking for houses in Cary NC for sale, learning about the region by visiting museums is a great way to get acquainted with the state’s rich and diverse history.

Cary Gallery of Artists

This is a relatively new and unique gallery that was founded in 2005 by a group of local artists. If you’re looking for high-quality original art at reasonable prices, be sure to visit this gallery. Cary Gallery of Artists features a good variety of media and styles, from traditional to contemporary. There’s much more than just paintings. A remarkable section of pottery and clay art offers functional and decorative pieces in a variety of styles. Those who prefer avant-garde pottery can select from works that push the boundaries of this medium with “edgy, hand-built pieces,” such as amazing sculpted masks. There’s also a jewelry section where artists create one-of-a-kind bracelets, earrings and necklaces. Finally, a glass artist creates works from fused glass and stained glass.

The Russian Art Gallery

Specializing in original art objects and paintings imported from Russia, this gallery features a comprehensive collection of fine art items. For fans of impressionism and realism, the gallery’s contemporary collection is well worth seeing. Besides fine art, there are hand-crafted and hand-painted items like matrioshkas (nesting dolls), khokhloma (lacquer ware) and rare amber jewelry. Art-related services offered by the gallery include cleaning and restoring oil paintings, canvas stretching, custom mounting, matting and framing.

So, while you’re exploring the area and looking for homes in Cary NC for sale, be sure to experience some of the city’s many wonderful art galleries that lend a rich and diverse character to this energetic and attractive region.

For the first time in 3 years, the housing market saw an increase in prices from April to May 2009. Although the increase is small, about 0.5%, sellers are hoping that even this modest rise is heralding a much-needed sustained upward trend. Buyers, sellers and agents alike will be keeping a close eye on Standard and Poor’s Case-Shiller Home Price Indices, a conglomeration of comprehensive measurements that includes a national home price index, metropolitan area indices for 20 areas, a 20-city composite index and a 10-city composite index. This is great news for those looking for property for sale in Raleigh, NC and many other regions of the US.

Along with other positive indicators in the beleaguered housing market, it’s thought that the rise is a signal that prices are stabilizing and that the inventory of homes for sale is shrinking, another good sign for sellers. The market decline began in late 2007 and ended in January 2009. Since then, prices have been trending upward for four consecutive months boding very well for sales of property in Raleigh NC.

It’s important to note that this appears to be a national trend that will benefit sales across the board in many metropolitan areas and their suburbs, such as Denver and Dallas where prices have been higher than last year for three consecutive months in 2009. But not every city has benefited: Prices in San Francisco, Phoenix and Las Vegas are down over last year by an average of 31%. Nation-wide home prices declined about 17% in May 2009 when compared to May 2008.

Housing market analysts are hopeful that the good news from Denver and Dallas is a modest beginning of a promising national trend. If housing prices are indeed hitting bottom, this should signal buyers to make their best deals in the near term, hopeful that the end of the recession is in sight. Lenders also are expected to benefit from the uptick in housing prices because the valuation of their assets will rise, increasing profits and minimizing losses.

[Continued in Part 2, below]

One possible glitch in the recent upward trend in home prices is how long it will take for consumers to respond to the modest but positive signs in the housing market. It’s not likely to be a heady, skyrocketing ascent but rather a general rise punctuated with plenty of modest declines. In the words of one analyst, Mark Zandi, from Moody’s Economy.com, “The bottom of the market is forming, but price declines aren’t over.” So, for those who have Raleigh North Carolina property for sale, the signs are good but not great.

Other good signs include that sales of existing homes have increased in April, May and June 2009.  Another indicator is that sales of new homes have jumped 11%. Finally, government figures report that the national inventory of homes for sale is the lowest since 2007.

One important current trend is that buyers are looking for smaller, more affordable homes after some thoughtful consideration of “how much home they really need,” according to Jim Chittaro, chief financial officer for J. Lawrence Homes in Naperville, Illinois. This means that sellers need to emphasize the quality features in their homes rather than the size because buyers now tend to prefer homes they can improve themselves rather than homes that already have features like gourmet kitchens or spa bathrooms.

All these factors are converging to create wide, sustainable confidence that the severely depressed real estate picture is brightening for those who have property for sale in Raleigh, North Carolina.

With so many homes for sale in Raleigh NC, it’s virtually certain you’ll find just the perfect property in just the perfect location. Whether urban or suburban, your home in this vibrant region is a great investment. But let’s backtrack a moment. Before you look at any homes, you need a good idea of how much you can afford to spend per month. Here’s some general information about determining the amount you can afford, so there won’t be any surprises when you actually do apply for home financing.

Banks and other entities that offer mortgages generally use fixed, basic formulas or “qualifying ratios” to determine your eligibility. These calculations help the lender determine how much you can afford to borrow and what your monthly payment would be. Always remember, though, that each mortgage application is evaluated on an individual basis, so you shouldn’t be reluctant to apply, even if the formulas don’t seem calculate favorably for you. At this point, formulas are just tools and models to help you choose the best financing option.

To qualify for a conventional mortgage, you need to show lenders that you can afford to spend somewhere between 28% and 32% of your gross monthly income on the payment. When lenders calculate your estimated payment, they include the following factors: mortgage principal, mortgage loan insurance, private mortgage insurance (PMI) and, if applicable, homeowners insurance and state, local and federal taxes. This aggregate of associated expenses is abbreviated PITI.

Here’s an example: If your annual gross income is $50,000, then your monthly gross income is $4167. This amount multiplied by the ratio used by the lender equals the payment you can afford. If the lender uses a 30% ratio, then your payment would be $1250 per month. But it’s not that simple. There are other factors that effect the sale of homes in Raleigh NC  [Continued below in Part 2].

Many people have other long-term debts besides mortgage payments, such as car payments or student loan payments. These need to be added into the calculation when you’re considering houses for sale in Raleigh North Carolina.

Lenders like to see a total monthly debt load not greater than 38% to 48% of your gross monthly income. In our example from Part 1 of this article, if the monthly gross income of $4187 is multiplied by a mid-range debt load percentage of 40%, the result equals a monthly payment of $1675 that includes both the mortgage and other long-term monthly debt obligations. Unfortunately, with the use of “automated underwriting,” in which loan determinations are made by computers rather than people, the debt-to-income ratio can be as high as 50%. Underwriting is the process of assessing the risk of lending to a borrower by applying a specific set of parameters.

Another important expense borrowers need to consider is the cost of homeowners or property insurance. Lenders usually require properties to be insured for the amount of the mortgage, which may or may not be the full value of the home. If the lender doesn’t require insurance for the full value of the home, borrowers should consider purchasing supplemental insurance so that the complete replacement value of the home is fully covered. Two other factors to consider are the total monthly utility bills and ongoing maintenance costs like home owner’s association fees.

Borrowers should consider pre-qualifying for a loan, which gives them a true idea of the type and amount of home and mortgage they can afford. Finally, it’s possible to find a good variety of low-cost loan programs, both government and conventional, for moderate- or low-income families that apply to the sale of houses in Raleigh North Carolina. In some cases, borrowers can receive reduced rates in exchange for undergoing financial and/or credit counseling.

In a recent article on about.com, “Home Staging & Staging a House - What is Home Staging?,” Elizabeth Weintraub presents a novel idea that might just help sellers obtain top dollar for their homes. The article’s subtitle, “Dressing a House for Success,” reminds readers that home staging is “more than decorating.” What the author means is that this is a process that helps sellers engage the imaginations of potential buyers by presenting a house in a manner calculated to emphasize its strong points and minimize its weaknesses. The whole point of home staging is to excite and involve buyers and make them want to live in the home. This is likely to have a positive impact on real estate sales in Raleigh North Carolina.

So how does it work? One of the most fundamental processes in home staging is called “depersonalization,” meaning the removal or reduction of religious items, certificates, cultural items, awards, trophies and similar objects that refer to the current occupants. Along with decluttering, depersonalization makes potential buyers feel comfortable in the property and, more importantly, helps them imagine how their furniture and possessions will look in various rooms and locations in the house. This, in effect, transforms them into buyers long before they make an offer for the home. Depersonalization also makes the home appealing to the widest possible universe of potential buyers while downplaying its flaws.

If you want to try some staging tricks on your own, here are a few key tips:

Apply a conditioner like orange or tung oil to wooden surfaces in the home like cabinet doors and to give them a glow.

Place a large bowl of appetizing fruit on a kitchen counter. Also scatter some cookbooks and cooking accessories around the kitchen like baskets or crocks containing wooden and metal tools.

In bathrooms, have scented soaps and lotion dispensers on hand in decorative baskets. Fill another basket with towels tied with ribbon.

Remove wallpaper and give the walls a fresh coat of paint in a neutral color. This is especially important in the living room and kitchen.

Accent patios and decks with potted plants and flowers.

Draw attention to the entry and foyer by painting the door in a vibrant color and using a complimenting color in the foyer. A small table and mirror on the wall add functionality and give a “lived-in” feel.

Give living rooms and family rooms an open and airy look. Use slip covers on worn furniture and arrange furniture in a “conversational” way that invites people to sit down and enjoy the room.

Properly done, home staging presents your home in the best possible light. It’s not hard to learn and will maximize the property’s appeal to the largest number of potential buyers, which will in turn stimulate sales of real estate in Raleigh North Carolina.

It’s not hard to sell real estate in Raleigh NC  if  you follow a few relatively simple steps. Along with sprucing up your property inside and out, you should also make a frank assessment of what a potential buyer might see as problems with your home. There’s no better way to do this than to have a professional inspector evaluate the property inside and out. Since it’s virtually certain that any serious buyer will engage an inspector, why not be proactive and do so yourself before putting your home on the market.

Here are just a few of the benefits of having an inspection before putting your home on the market:

A home inspection gives you an evaluation of your home as seen through a buyer’s eyes. Your inspector’s report, even if highly negative, will help you develop an unbiased opinion of the property and what’s required to get it ready for sale.

Using an inspector helps you to determine a realistic price for your home.

An inspection may turn up issues that need to be handled ahead of time. This assures that buyers won’t consider them to be factors that drive your asking price lower. The inspection may also identify safety problems that need to be fixed before agents and potential buyers tour your home.

The inspection may discover immediate hazards such a radon gas, natural gas leaks or electrical problems that put you and your family in danger.

If your locality requires sellers to furnish disclosure statements to buyers, including an inspection by a certified professional along with the disclosure gives the seller increased credibility from the buyer’s point of view. Be sure to enclose receipts for any repairs you make along with the inspection report.

Finally, a certified and credible inspection may lead the buyer to waive the inspection contingency in the sales contract because it reduces the inevitable suspicions a buyer may have. From the seller’s point of view, an inspection may reduce liability because it adds supporting documentation from a qualified professional inspector. So if you have real estate to sell in Raleigh NC, having an inspection done before putting your home on the market is a sound and prudent step to take.

Looking for real estate to buy in Raleigh NC? If you’re a first-time home buyer, the process might seem daunting. While there are a lot of details to handle, the process is actually quite simple. Here’s a step-by-step plan that can help you buy real estate in Raleigh NC.

1. Determine whether buying a home would be more advantageous for you than renting. Home ownership isn’t for everyone. It requires a certain degree of commitment and can have substantial ongoing costs. Every home needs upkeep and maintenance that take both time and money. If you aren’t financially or mentally ready to commit to owning a home, then it’s best to stay put.

2. Put your financial affairs in order. If you’re going to need a mortgage, be sure your credit is in top shape. Since lenders will be getting your credit report, it makes sense to obtain one yourself and resolve any problems before applying for a mortgage.

3. Know your financial boundaries. Investigate the various types of mortgages and financing that are available in your area. Find out what lenders are offering the most attractive terms and rates. At the same time, do the math to determine the monthly payment you can afford. Be sure to factor in property and school taxes and ongoing expenses such as garbage collection and homeowner’s association fees.

4. Choose several neighborhoods where you would like to live. Even if you have your heart set on a certain neighborhood, it’s wise to investigate other locations to get a balanced picture of property values.

5. Decide on the style of house you prefer but keep an open mind, especially if you’re buying your first home. Don’t pass up a bargain simply because it’s not your preferred architectural style. That cozy Cape Cod may be a stepping stone to that sprawling ranch you really want.

6. Interview several real estate agents and get recommendations from friends, family and co-workers. You need to have an open and honest relationship with your agent, so be sure that the person you choose is someone you can both trust and talk frankly with. Continued in Part 2. See below.

In Part 1 of this article about how to purchase real estate in Raleigh, North Carolina, we discussed the steps needed to get ready to buy a house. In Part 2 of this series about finding real estate to purchase in Raleigh, North Carolina, we’ll discuss how to find a property and negotiate a fair price.

1.  Get everything in place. You’re going to need a loan officer at the bank, a real estate attorney and a home inspector, at the very least. If you’re planning on buying a “fixer upper,” have a reputable contractor on your team as well. Depending on the locality, you may need contacts in the zoning or building departments of the town where you’re buying the property, especially if you’re planning on remodelling or any work that may require permits from the local municipality.

2.  Use all possible resources. The Internet is a great source of information and education. Also, your agent may be able to get you access to listings available through his company or through others. Some towns and cities have real estate TV and radio shows that can be a wealth of good information about local issues. Be sure you understand the local government and its policies.

3.  Visit properties with your agent. Draw on your agent’s understanding and expertise. He or she can point out feature or facets of a property that you might miss or be unaware of.

4.  Place a reasonable offer. Even if a property is in relative disrepair, it has intrinsic value. Placing an offer can be tricky because although you want to get the property for the best possible price, you risk alienating the seller if your offer is excessively low. Be sure your offer is in the proper legal form on the correct legal form or document.

5.  Negotiate the price. Although this can be the most exciting part of buying a home, it can also be the most stressful. Keep your emotions and impulses in check and let reason and common sense rule the process as much as possible. Rely on your agent’s expertise and advice and try to see the seller’s side of any issues that might crop up.

6.  Once the offer is accepted, sign the contract and have your attorney review it

7.  Have the property inspected by a professional.

8.  Apply for a mortage.

9.  Handle other legal issues like being sure there’s a clear title to the property.

10.  Close the deal and take possession of the property.

When you’re shopping for real estate for sale in Raleigh, NC, it’s important to get a feel for the region, its character and its residents. Here are a few illuminating and insightful facts and figures about this vibrant and growing region.

For those looking for a suburban lifestyle with big-city amenities, Raleigh NC real estate for sale can be a good choice. The population of about 350,000 is large enough to support a good base of upscale neighborhoods, stores, restaurants and entertainment venues but small enough avoid the indifference and anonymity of larger urban centers. In other words, Raleigh is a great place to enjoy both a latte and a homespun conversation.

Raleigh’s population has grown an amazing 24% in the period 2000 through 2005. With a stable economy, good schools (both public and private), and affordable housing prices, Raleigh is an attractive destination for both younger professional and older retirees. The median home cost in Raleigh is a reasonable $203,000, a fact which compensates for the fact that Raleigh’s cost of living is about 6% higher than the U.S. national average. Raleigh expends about $5,000 per year per student in public education. While this about $1000 below the national average, it’s mitigated by a positive student-teacher ratio of 16 to 1. The unemployment rate in the region is about 1% below the U.S. average while job growth has declined by about 3%.

Despite all this, Raleigh has an active real estate market where the median home age is about 21 years. Over 50% of the homes in the region are owner-occupied, while about 45% are rental properties. The property tax rate is about $8 per $1000 of assessed value, significantly lower than the national average of about $13.00.

For people looking for a steady economy with a wide tax base and good housing values and choices, Raleigh is worth a second look.

If you’re considering a move to the region and looking at Raleigh, North Carolina real estate for sale, you’re also probably interested in the amenities the region offers. Like any metropolitan area, Raleigh offers a great variety of restaurants. What’s particularly impressive, however, is the area’s abundance of five-star-rated establishments. Here’s some information on just 3 of the best.

For those who enjoy classic French Provencal cuisine, Saint Jacques is not to be missed. The wine list alone is a veritable tour through this classic region of France. While many diners prefer wines by the bottle, Saint Jacques offers about 10 excellent varieties by the glass. The menu is extensive, with a good selection of appetizers like baby spinach salad, Provencal crab salad and homemade country pate. Entrees include bouillabaisse, scallops “coquilles St. Jacques, filet of beef Normandie and duck a l’orange. Classic French desserts like creme brulee and mousse au chocolat.

Located in the historic Dodd-Hinsdale house, Second Empire Restaurant and Tavern offers a superior atmosphere that’s more than matched by its food. The cuisine is continental and diners can choose a seat in the restaurant proper or in the casual ambience of the relaxed and friendly tavern, a separate “restaurant within a restaurant.” The menu at the tavern includes appetizers like blue crab stuffed mushrooms and classic Caesar salad. Entrees range from grilled Angus beef filet to Empire seafood paella. For dessert choose classic creme brulee, key lime pie or any of 8 other choices.

No great city is complete without an equally great steak house and Angus Barn is Raleigh’s. The restaurant features 8 different cuts of steak along with a choice of 6 different sauces that compliment the meat perfectly. For those who enjoy other dishes, there’s a great selection that includes BBQ ribs, seafood and lamb. Surprisingly, the restaurant also offers a few vegetarian entrees. Chocolate chess pie and cheesecake top the dessert menu. There’s even a country store where patrons can purchase jars of the restaurant’s signature sauces.

So, after a day of house hunting in the vibrant market of real estate for sale in Raleigh, North Carolina, why not continue your “research” in one of the city’s many and varied top-rated restaurants?

Although just about everybody dreams about owning a home, they don’t always allow for a number of important factors that can have a dramatic effect on whether or not that dream will come true. Here’s some information about real estate in Raleigh North Carolina that first-time home buyers should seriously consider.

If you’re planning to borrow in order to finance your Raleigh North Carolina real estate, take an honest look at your income, debt and savings. Lenders like to see at least 2 years of steady employment. In addition, you should have a positive credit history. It’s a good idea to obtain your credit report before applying for a mortgage so there aren’t any surprises later. If you’re carrying any debt, such as a car loan, you need to be able to afford both your current debt and the new debt associated with a mortgage. Also, you’ll need to have cash, preferably from savings, on hand to cover the home’s down payment and closing costs. Other sources of this cash can be a tax refund, employment bonus, inheritance or assistance from a relative in the form of a monetary gift.

Finally, you need to consider whether you’re willing to make the lifestyle changes that home ownership usually requires. You’ll need to be willing to spend time maintaining your home and yard and should have some money put aside for any unexpected repairs that might be needed. Remember that you’re likely to be less able to afford lavish vacations and expensive nights out when you own a home. Finally, if you have or plan to have children, be sure to recognize that there are ongoing expenses associated with children that may last up to 2 decades, especially if you’re planning a college education for them.

Buying a home is usually the largest single financial transaction most people make. Make sure you understand both the positives and negatives before making this long-term commitment.