Charlotte Property Hunters - Find Your Dream Home in South Charlotte and Union County, North Carolina

Looking at our overall housing market at a regional level to include Mecklenburg County and surrounding areas you will see that while we have our issues, Charlotte is not drastically sliding price wise. If you are considering buying or selling take a look at these charts and contact me with questions. I am here to help.

Today’s market is a buyer’s market with interest rates well below 4.5% for a 30 year fixed interest rate mortgage. We should be seeing more buyers stepping out to look at homes for sale and real estate in our housing market. Traditionally this time of year sellers have opportunity from Labor Day through Thanksgiving. If you are considering selling this year, start preparing your home now.

Tiffany Johannes (704) 301-7404/tiffany@Husbt.com

If you are considering buying a home, there are many opportunities for you to find just the right home for sale in the Charlotte area.  With mortgage interest rates at an all time low of under 4.5% for a 30 Year Fixed Rate Mortgage, it is time to buy if you have been considering purchasing a home.  Interest rates and the number of homes for sale at great prices can't be beat.  

I work with buyers and sellers throughout our area.  Here are a few great homes for sale I have listed in the Charlotte Real Estate Market and surrounding areas.  If you are looking in Midwood, South Charlotte, Huntersville, Cornelius or Union County (Indian Trail, Matthews, Waxhaw, Monroe) you will find a home for sale here.  Of course if none of these homes are what you are looking for, feel free to contact me for a free list of homes for sale. 

My listings for sale

Listings 1 - 20 of 20

9803 Go For Gin CT -- 5 BR, 4.1 BA
Price: $849,900 (4400 - 5300 sqft)
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Help-U-Sell Buy Today | MLS # 961216 | Active

1016 Kite CT -- 5 BR, 4.1 BA
Price: $429,900 (3400 - 4100 sqft)
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Help-U-Sell Buy Today | MLS # 933230 | Active

10819 Meg Meadow DR -- 5 BR, 5 BA
Price: $325,000 (3100 - 3700 sqft)
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Help-U-Sell Buy Today | MLS # 948698 | Active

8004 Magna LN -- 5 BR, 3.1 BA
Price: $305,000 (3800 - 4500 sqft)
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Help-U-Sell Buy Today | MLS # 965274 | Active

12630 Aberdeen Park DR -- 5 BR, 3 BA
Price: $299,000 (2400 - 2900 sqft)
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Help-U-Sell Buy Today | MLS # 829332 | Active

8735 Westmoreland Lake DR -- 4 BR, 2.1 BA
Price: $274,900 (2400 - 2900 sqft)
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Help-U-Sell Buy Today | MLS # 932222 | Active

8905 Elrose PL -- 3 BR, 3 BA
Price: $269,900 (2000 - 2400 sqft)
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Help-U-Sell Buy Today | MLS # 969274 | Active

4140 Cedar Point AVE -- 3 BR, 2.1 BA
Price: $229,900 (1700 - 2100 sqft)
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Help-U-Sell Buy Today | MLS # 915070 | Active

922 Jaywood LN -- 4 BR, 2.1 BA
Price: $224,900 (1800 - 2200 sqft)
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Help-U-Sell Buy Today | MLS # 950565 | Active

2401 Potter Downs DR -- 3 BR, 2.1 BA
Price: $219,000 (1600 - 2000 sqft)
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Help-U-Sell Buy Today | MLS # 887531 | Active

5801 Lindley Crescent DR -- 4 BR, 2.1 BA
Price: $214,999 (2200 - 2700 sqft)
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Help-U-Sell Buy Today | MLS # 930829 | Active

8403 Kirchenbaum DR -- 3 BR, 2 BA
Price: $209,900 (1300 - 1600 sqft)
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Help-U-Sell Buy Today | MLS # 927753 | Active

3129 Maywood DR -- 3 BR, 2.1 BA
Price: $174,900 (1300 - 1600 sqft)
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Help-U-Sell Buy Today | MLS # 945453 | Active

3017 Secret Garden CT -- 4 BR, 2 BA
Price: $154,900 (1400 - 1800 sqft)
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Help-U-Sell Buy Today | MLS # 948602 | Active

6018 Grove Creek LN -- 3 BR, 2 BA
Price: $154,900 (1100 - 1400 sqft)
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Help-U-Sell Buy Today | MLS # 968916 | Active

4933 SW Wheat DR -- 4 BR, 2.1 BA
Price: $147,500 (1600 - 2000 sqft)
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Help-U-Sell Buy Today | MLS # 964599 | Active

2313 Sharon Forest DR -- 3 BR, 2 BA
Price: $124,900 (1500 - 1800 sqft)
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Help-U-Sell Buy Today | MLS # 962081 | Active

2109 Clover Bend DR -- 3 BR, 2 BA
Price: $124,900 (1300 - 1600 sqft)
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Help-U-Sell Buy Today | MLS # 951212 | Active

1075 Millhouse DR -- 4 BR, 2.1 BA
Price: $229,900 (2400 - 2900 sqft)
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Help-U-Sell Buy Today | MLS # 970757 | Active

607 NW Cloverhill PL -- 3 BR, 2 BA
Price: $195,000 (1600 - 2000 sqft)
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Help-U-Sell Buy Today | MLS # 947104 | Active

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 Savvy + Co. 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. © 2010 Carolina Multiple Listing Services, Inc. Data updated September 9, 2010

Brandon Oaks provides you with a wonderful location and incredible amenities.  Enjoy the ponds, pools, walking trails and tennis courts.  There is always something going on!  If you are considering moving, consider Brandon Oaks.  Union County offers super tax rates and great schools!  Learn More Today!

Homes For Sale in Brandon Oaks:

Brandon Oaks homes for sale

3017 Secret Garden CT -- 4 BR, 2 BA
Price: $154,900 (1400 - 1800 sqft)
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Help-U-Sell Buy Today | MLS # 948602 | Active

1000 Whaley View PL -- 5 BR, 4 BA
Price: $425,000 (3600 - 4300 sqft)
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Keller Williams Realty | MLS # 890128 | Active

5008 Rosewater LN -- 5 BR, 4.1 BA
Price: $389,900 (3800 - 4500 sqft)
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Allen Tate Company | MLS # 950573 | Active

5533 Rogers RD -- 5 BR, 3 BA
Price: $275,000 (3300 - 4000 sqft)
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Keller Williams Realty | MLS # 946791 | Conditional

3005 Canopy DR -- 6 BR, 3.1 BA
Price: $265,000 (3700 - 4400 sqft)
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DR Horton Inc | MLS # 937845 | Active

1116 Cooper LN -- 4 BR, 2.1 BA
Price: $260,000 (2400 - 2900 sqft)
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First Properties | MLS # 897135 | Contingent

2006 Envoy LN -- 4 BR, 3 BA
Price: $260,000 (2300 - 2800 sqft)
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Allen Tate Company | MLS # 951175 | Active

2019 Fripp LN -- 4 BR, 3 BA
Price: $259,000 (2900 - 3500 sqft)
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ProStead Realty | MLS # 947513 | Contingent

2016 Currier PL -- 5 BR, 2.1 BA
Price: $255,000 (2800 - 3400 sqft)
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Terry Connell-Davis Inc. | MLS # 913567 | Active

1410 Deer Spring CT -- 4 BR, 2.1 BA
Price: $249,900 (2300 - 2800 sqft)
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Prudential Carolinas Realty | MLS # 932155 | Active

3015 Canopy DR -- 6 BR, 3.1 BA
Price: $249,900 (3700 - 4400 sqft)
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DR Horton Inc | MLS # 966926 | Active

1109 Alyssum LN -- 4 BR, 2.1 BA
Price: $249,900 (3100 - 3700 sqft)
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RE/MAX Executive Realty | MLS # 924975 | Active

2035 Hollyhedge LN -- 5 BR, 2.1 BA
Price: $244,999 (2800 - 3400 sqft)
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Coldwell Banker United | MLS # 929703 | Active

2015 Fripp LN -- 5 BR, 3 BA
Price: $239,900 (2800 - 3400 sqft)
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Prudential Carolinas Realty | MLS # 920413 | Active

3745 Waters Reach LN -- 4 BR, 2.1 BA
Price: $239,900 (2100 - 2600 sqft)
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Coldwell Banker United | MLS # 946903 | Active

3019 Spring Fancy LN -- 5 BR, 2.1 BA
Price: $234,000 (2900 - 3500 sqft)
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Coldwell Banker United | MLS # 929896 | Active

1019 Garden Oaks DR -- 5 BR, 3.1 BA
Price: $230,000 (2600 - 3100 sqft)
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DR Horton Inc | MLS # 928026 | Active

5007 Sipes PL -- 4 BR, 2.1 BA
Price: $227,932 (2600 - 3100 sqft)
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The Ryland Group, Inc. | MLS # 960803 | Active

3000 Canopy DR -- 4 BR, 2.1 BA
Price: $227,800 (2600 - 3100 sqft)
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The Ryland Group, Inc. | MLS # 962651 | Active

3008 Canopy DR -- 3 BR, 2 BA
Price: $221,914 (2100 - 2500 sqft)
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The Ryland Group, Inc. | MLS # 963587 | Active

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 Savvy + Co. 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. © 2010 Carolina Multiple Listing Services, Inc. Data updated September 9, 2010

When shopping for a new home, especially if it is your first time, it can be intimidating when reviewing your different loan options and types. You will see and hear many different terms when dealing with lenders, agents and brokers. Below are some of the common terminology used so you can become familiar when going thru home buying process.

Annual Percentage Rate (APR): The APR for your home loan is an annual cost that includes the interest rate quoted by your mortgage company plus additional home loan costs such as origination fees and points.  Required by law, this amount is to be disclosed to the homeowner by the lender under the federal Truth in Lending Act. This amount includes up-front costs paid to obtain the loan but does not include the PMI,  title insurance, appraisal, and credit report.

Closing Costs: These are the expenses aside from the price of the property that are incurred by buyers and sellers when transferring ownership of a property.  These costs include origination fees, property taxes, charges for title insurance, escrow costs, appraisal fees etc.  Many times these costs are shared by the buyer and the seller.

Escrow: During the home loan process, a neutral third party known as Escrow holds documents and money (including earnest money deposits) for safekeeping until the real estate transaction is complete.

Points: The amount paid either to maintain or lower the interest rate charged. Each point is equal to one percent (1%) of the loan amount. This means that, to lower your interest rate by one point on a $300,000 mortgage, you’ll need to pay an additional $3,000 at closing.

Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI):  If you are purchasing a home and you do not have a the traditional 20 percent down payment,  lenders will require you to carry private mortgage insurance. Private mortgage insurance will usually require an initial premium payment and may require an additional monthly fee depending on your loan’s structure.

Title Insurance: This type of insurance protects both the buyer and the seller against legal issues that may arise with a  home’s title. If a problem occurs, the title company pays the associated legal fees to correct the situation.   

There are  many different terms out there that will come up when you buy a home and apply for a loan. If you are ever confused or have any questions about a particular term or contract be sure to ask your realtor or real estate attorney for clarification before signing any legal documents.

During the process of purchasing a home you will need to enter into escrow. Many first time homebuyers have many questions about the escrow process. 

What exactly is an escrow?
An escrow is an arrangement in which a disinterested third party, called a escrow holder, holds legal documents and funds on behalf of a buyer and seller, and distributes them according to the buyer’s and seller’s instructions. The escrow becomes the depository for all monies, instructions and documents pertaining to the purchase of your home.

How does the escrow process work?

The escrow is a depository for all monies, instructions and documents necessary for the purchase of the home, including  funds for the down payment, lender’s funds and documents for the new loan. The duties of an escrow holder include: following the instructions given by the principals and parties to the transaction in a timely manner; handling the funds and/or documents in accordance with instructions; paying all bills as authorized;  closing the escrow only when all terms and conditions have been met; and, distributing the funds in accordance with instructions.

Do I need documentation?
Receipt of your deposit is generally included in your copy of your purchase contract. Your funds will then be deposited in your separate escrow or trust account and processed through your local bank.

What information will I have to provide?
Typically you will be asked to complete a statement of identity as part of the necessary paperwork. Because many people have the same name, the statement of identity is pucused to identify the specific person in the transaction through such information as date of birth, social security number, etc. This information is kept confidential.

How long is the escrow?
The length of an escrow is determined by the terms of the purchase agreement and can range from a few days to several months. Typically an escrow often takes an average time of 30 to 45 days.

When does the escrow process end?

The escrow process ends when you actually close on the home, during the closing procedure. This is when all funds are transferred accordingly, when all documents are signed, and when you get the keys to your new home.

During the process of purchasing a home, you will most likely be asked to make what is called a good faith deposit or earnest money deposit. A good faith deposit lets the buyer know that you are serious and that you intend to fulfill the terms of their agreement. It is important to keep in mind that these deposits however should not to be confused with a down payment.

How much do you need to deposit?

Many different factors will affect the amount of money that is required for the deposit. If a property generates a lot of interest, a buyer may make a larger deposit to convince the seller that their offer is stronger than the others. Typically the amount requested is  anywhere from 1 to 3 percent of the sales price but, there is no set requirement.  Generally the larger the deposit the more the seller will take your offer seriously. 

Who holds the money?

Once the buyer and seller agree to the amount of the good faith deposit,  the money should be deposited with a third party and held “in trust.”  Potential third parties include escrow and title insurance companies as well as an attorney if your state requires their involvement or you choose to use one.  Never give an earnest money deposit to the seller. Be sure to verify that the third party will deposit the funds into a separately maintained trust account and always obtain a receipt.

Is the money refundable?

If the buyer and the seller cannot come to terms on the sale then the money will be refunded. It is always a good idea to consult a real estate attorney who can help ensure that your offer is written in a manner that protects your rights to the deposit.  Always review your purchase agreement as well as to the specifics of the refund of the deposit. Often, third party fees are also paid out of earnest money deposits. For example, if an appraisal has been completed on the property then the appraisal fee is going to have to be paid before money can be released to either of the parties.

The basic idea of a good faith deposit is be an type of insurance for the seller. It is important to remember that the escrow process can take 30 to 60 days, and during that time their property is off the market. The good faith deposit essentially compensates the seller for this time in the event the buyer is unable to follow through on the purchase of the property. This deposit helps reassure the seller you are serious about buying their home.

Although the current real estate market is very favorable for buyers with rock bottom prices and historically low rates, a common question I hear from potential home buyers is whether or not they should continue to rent or make the plunge and buy a home. The best answer to this question really depends on you–your situation and your goals for the future.

I tell potential buyers to ask themselves themselves these questions: Do you think you’re ready to move into the world of homeownership? Does your job require you to relocate frequently? Are you ready to “settle down” and raise a family? Not sure what you want to do yet?

As a real estate professional, I do know that buying a home has real advantages in today’s market: Realtor.com  reports that housing affordability is the best it’s been in nearly 30 years. Right now buyers can cash in on hefty price drops and rock-bottom mortgage interest rates–and many people don’t realize just how great the market is!

So should you rent or should you buy? The Our Family Place Home Buyer’s Information Center  lists some of the pros and cons noted below, and I’ve added some of my own:

Advantages of buying a home:

* You gain equity in your home through mortgage payments.
* Your home could be one of the best long-term investments you will ever make.
* You can decorate and remodel the way you want.
* You get homeowner tax breaks.
* You build your credit standing.
* You can improve your property using home equity loans.
* You gain independence and pride as a homeowner.
* You can transfer your property through your will.

Disadvantages Of Buying A Home:

* Your costs are variable.
* Your equity may change due to market conditions.
* You usually must sell your home to move.
* You handle maintenance and upkeep.
* You usually need more cash to get in.

Renting Advantages:

* Your costs are fixed for the term of your rental.
* You don’t lose equity.
* You can move at the end of your lease term.
* You have fewer maintenance worries.
* You need less cash to get in.

Renting Disadvantages:

* You never get equity.
* You can’t always decorate or remodel the way you want.
* You don’t get any tax breaks.
* Your lease is for a limited time period determined by your landlord.
* Your rent may go up at the end of your lease and other terms may change.
* Your landlord may not fix problems or invest in routine property maintenance.
* You normally can’t transfer your lease without the landlord’s OK.
* You may face eviction if you and your landlord have a dispute.

That’s a lot to think about. To put these pros and cons into dollar terms, try out this rent v. buy calculator offered by the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Insurance Corporation (better known as Freddie Mac). Don’t be shy–check out different scenarios and see what they mean for your finances.

Yes, there are lots of variables to consider, and you’ll need to do your homework to decide what’s right for you. Working with a qualified real estate professional who can provide current market advice for your area can help.
 

Looking for a new home is an exciting time but can also be time consuming and frustrating. Making the most of your time is your best strategy to help you find what you are looking for so you can go from house hunting to moving into your dream home! Below are some tips to help you make the most of your search.

• Dress comfortably. Wear comfortable shoes but it is a good idea to wear slip on shoes as many homes might have a posted  “please remove shoes” sign to help keep the flooring clean. Having to untie and tie your shoes at every house can be a huge waste of time. Wearing comfortable clothing will allow you to focus on the aspects on the home and enjoy your experience.
• Allow yourself plenty of time. When looking at homes it is best to not make plans to do something else later in the day. You don’t want to rush, you want to be able to spend enough time at the home, especially if you if you find one you really like. Keep in mind you might just find one that you want to act on quickly and make an offer!
• Bring a checklist. Create a realistic checklist of the aspects your idea home should have. When looking at homes you can check off and make notes on which homes have or don’t have what you are looking for. This will help you analyze your needs and wants and focus on the properties that you can get serious about.
• Don’t be shy, open drawers, cabinets and closets. If you really like a property feel free to look in the nooks and crannys. You want to make sure you see every square inch and not miss anything.  You need to know how wide and deep the closets and other storage areas are, which you can’t find out without opening the door and having a look. Remember, while you may feel like you are are being nosy, doing a detailed viewing is the only way you can weigh your options on the home.
• Bring a Digital Camera. Digital cameras are ideal for house hunting. You can take pictures of the homes you visit and save them in labeled folders on your computer. Which home had the huge walk in closet? Which one had the great backyard? Just look at the photos and you’ll remember!

When you purchase a new home, you are prepared for the monthly expense of what your mortgage payments will be, but owning a home has many other additional monthly and yearly costs that some may not be prepared for, especially first time homebuyers.

Keep in mind that home ownership costs are bearable; you just need to do your homework and be prepared. As long as you plan for these expenses you will be fine, you may even want to scale back the size of the home you’re looking for so you can ensure that you will be able to keep everything in line with your budget.

Below is a list of potential monthly fees and expenses that are common that you will need to consider:

Property taxes. This is an expense you obviously cannot avoid, but they can always be added to your mortgage payments so you don’t need to worry about another bill each month.  Your home is typically taxed on its assessed value, an amount equal to a fraction of its appraised value, which is the number you’re probably familiar with from the loan-securing process.  Keep in mind that the amount that was estimated and indicated on your good faith estimate may not 100% so be informed and obtain the actual final number before you sign the dotted line.

Insurance. This is another expense that you will absolutely have to have, you cannot complete purchase without it. The good thing is there are many insurance companies out there so shop around and get quotes for the best deal.  Perhaps check with your car insurance company first as many companies will give discounts for multiple policies.  Homeowner’s insurance provides basic protection against disasters such as fire and theft. Keep in mind that most insurance policies don’t generally cover flood damage. If you are in a flood zone or need  flood insurance you will need to purchase a separate flood insurance policy. 

Homeowner’s association fees. This cost may not affect everyone but if you’re buying into a subdivision or a condominium community, you may be required to have to pay a monthly or yearly fee. This fee usually helps to pay for the upkeep of common areas and other shared expenses such as street lights and grass mowing.  Keep in mind if you decide to purchase a home with an HOA, you must make these payments as most states allow associations to foreclose on homes with unpaid fees. It is always a good idea to review the HOA agreement and bylaws first to make sure you understand them are willing to comply.

Utilities.  Of course you know you will need to pay utilities, but keep in mind if you are buying a home for the first time and are moving from an apartment to a home the cost of utilities will most likely increase significantly.  It’s important to figure in the fact that you will be heating and cooling more square footage and you may have more appliances ( think washer and dryer, garage door openers etc.) that will require power. Don’t forget about the water bill, while some apartments may include that in the cost of rent, you are on your own when you purchase a home. Add in a sprinkler system and your water costs might even double. Do your research!

Maintenance. As with most things of value you will need to factor in upkeep and maintenance costs. It is important to have an account set up or have extra money budgeted in for repairs and upkeep. There are things on a home that will break when you least expect it and may have a hefty price tag. While you can always repair somethings yourself, major issues like heating and cooling systems, appliance malfunctions and even plumbing problems will require a professional and that usually means a substantial cost.

Owning a home is wonderful and while there are costs involved, with the right research and planning doesn’t need to make your bank account dwindle. Owning a home is an investment!