Our Carolina Review Newsletter was recently mailed out and the electronic version is emailed today. Here are a few OBX news items that did not make the newsletter... It's been rather mild on the Outer Banks this winter. I don’t remember seeing one snowflake so far and there has only been a handful of days where there has been frost on the ground. This relatively warm winter is not unprecedented. A few years back, our geraniums survived the entire winter on the front porch in Kitty … Continue reading...
My Experiences with Outer Banks Hurricanes
Since moving to the Outer Banks in 1989 we have been threatened by hurricanes almost every year. Dealing with these storms is no fun but is worth it to live in such a great place. Years ago when we were looking for a spot to raise our boys Lori and I decided the most important thing was to be in a spot where the risk of flooding would be minimal and where it would be less likely to have wind damage from Outer Banks hurricanes. Yes, there are many places like that on the Outer Banks. We found … Continue reading...
Five Inexpensive Improvements to Sell a Vacation Home
Selling vacation homes can be challenging. Today’s buyers watch HGTV where home updates are the norm instead of the exception. Often times OBX vacation homes don’t have those updates. If you are preparing to sell or not getting activity on your home then here are five items that will encourage buyers to look and make offers. By doing some of these simple updates you may make your home stand out among all the ones for sale. Tidy yard and exterior: Pruning trees and/or bushes can often be … Continue reading...
Why should I use an Outer Banks Lender?
Getting a loan today usually requires a little more time and effort. If you have refinanced or purchased property elsewhere over the last few years then you are familiar with this process. You may want to use your home town lender because they already have your paperwork or they are a friend. The unique aspects of getting a loan on OBX property may be worth reconsidering your decision. Here are some reasons why you should use an Outer Banks lender. Flood Zones Outer Banks lenders are … Continue reading...
Comparing Vacation Rental Cottages Purchases
Vacation Rental Cottages with a built-in solid rental income make owning here even easier. Properly comparing vacation rental cottages involves more than just looking at rental income. Knowing how to compare the many vacation rental variables can save you time and money. Local MLS: Fortunately, most listing agents post years’ of rental income history in the associated documents section of the local MLS. These sheets are a wealth of information for the potential buyer. From these sheets you can … Continue reading...