Ensure Against Disaster With the Proper Homeowners Insurance

Navigating all of the options available for homeowners insurance can be a challenge. Since “Mother Nature” reliably makes her appearances across the country year after year, selecting the proper insurance is critical to protect perhaps the largest purchase one will make over the course of a lifetime. It is a good idea to review the policy annually to ensure the best coverage is being provided.

To help, Coldwell Banker Sea Coast Realty offers the following primer on homeowners insurance.

The Fundamentals:
Standard policies should reimburse for basic damages including burglary and destruction to the home caused by fire, smoke, lightning, ice, snow and frozen pipes. In addition, traditional policies often offer liability coverage for medical claims of third parties and legal damages should the homeowner be named the defendant in a lawsuit. The most common amount of liability coverage is $100,000.

Be Prepared for the Worst Case Scenario:
Before granting a loan, lenders often require homeowners to purchase at least a basic insurance plan. However, homeowners should be prepared for the worst. They should find out exactly how much it would cost to restore the home from top to bottom in case of complete destruction, and then contemplate insuring it for that amount.

Although the policy will provide the funds to rebuild the structure of the home, money is still needed to refurbish the inside with new appliances, furnishings, etc. Many consumers are not aware that they have the option to insure their home and belongings for either the replacement cost or the actual cash value. Actual cash value is the amount it would take to repair a home or replace damaged possessions after factoring in depreciation. Replacement cost is the amount it would take to repair a home with materials of similar kind and quality, or to purchase new possessions without deducting for depreciation. Understandably, insuring property to cover replacement costs is more expensive than insuring it for its actual cash value, but may be worth the difference if a consumer can afford the higher premiums.

To best prepare for refurbishing the inside, put together a detailed home inventory list. Include everything from jewelry to artwork to carpets to computer equipment to tools and sporting equipment. A list with receipts attached is ideal. Also consider doing a photographic or video inventory (date stamp the video as a record) in which the key information is chronicled. Whether a written or visual property catalogue is compiled, be sure to include a description of the item, quantity owned, brand name, model or serial number, name of the vendor, date of purchase, purchase price, current value and replacement cost. Another tip is to keep this documentation in a separate location in case tragedy should strike the home.

Water, Water, Everywhere?
According to the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), flooding is the most common natural disaster in the U.S., yet it is typically not covered by traditional home-owners insurance policies. It is however offered by the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) for many areas of the country. In fact, if a property lies in a flood hazard area (determined by the Director of the FEMA to have a one percent chance of being hit by a flood), the borrower will likely be required to purchase flood insurance. If you live in an area prone to flooding, consider purchasing such a policy from a local agent. It is not wise to rely on federal disaster funds, as these loans must be repaid.

Sometimes floods are brought on by hurricanes. Hurricanes “Katrina” and “Rita” are reminders of the devastation that storms can cause. Unfortunately, hurricane insurance has become pricier and more difficult to obtain. Those living in hurricane prone areas should shop around for the most comprehensive and affordable policy from a reputable provider.

For more information, please visit www.seacoastrealty.com or find us on Facebook.

Southport, North Carolina

Southport is one of the most beautiful and charming small towns in North Carolina. During warm weather, visitors flock to Southport's picturesque tree-lined streets to explore its many restaurants, shops, marina, yacht basin and historic attractions.

Hundreds of years ago, pirates and explorers visited the area. Today, it's convenient location, where the Atlantic Ocean, Intracoastal Waterway, and Cape Fear River meet, is still very popular with mariners.

Ginger Harper with Coldwell Banker Sea Coast Realty has been a Southport resident for 27 years and shares some of her favorite things to do there. Photos courtesy of Jim Harper.

For more information, please visit http://www.seacoastrealty.com/ or become our fan on Facebook.

Tips for Making Long Distance Relocation Easier

Moving can be a complicated process, especially when the new home is in a different state or across the country. Buyers must research the town, school systems, job market, and neighborhood all before settling on a new location.

The professionals at Coldwell Banker Sea Coast Realty recommend taking the following steps to ensure that when it comes time to move to a distant location, the process goes as smoothly as possible.

First, Get Organized.
When moving many miles away it makes sense to compile a list of the key information required before deciding where to live. Important questions that will need to be answered include:

• What is the cost of living? How far will the new money go?
  
• What is the price of a similar sized house in the new location?
  
• What is the community like? Crime rates?
  
• How is the school system?
  
• What is the noise factor?
  
• Will this be a good area for my spouse to find work?
  
• What is the public transportation system like?
  
• How long will the commute be?

Due Diligence.
To learn more about the typical lifestyle of the new town, as well as community events and crime rates, get a few back copies of the local newspaper, or log on to the local paper’s Web site. This third party information, together with information from the local Chamber of Commerce, will give a sense of the area.

Use the Internet.
When it comes to selecting the home itself, the Web is an invaluable tool. Web sites such as http://www.coldwellbanker.com/ can provide visitors with an abundance of useful information. Functions like the Coldwell Banker Home Price Comparison Index will calculate approximately how much a house will be worth in the new market, which as a result will provide insight into the cost of living. Visitors also can find a variety of community and neighborhood information including median age and income, percentages of married couples and children, recent home sales, and a listing of elementary and high schools with demographic information on the schools.

Feet on the Street.
Begin to work with a real estate associate early on when visiting the new city. Look to see how much new construction and remodeling work is taking place. This will indicate whether the neighborhood is growing and developing, and whether current residents plan to stay. Also, have the sales associate take you through the neighborhood “after hours” to see what the neighborhood looks like when all have returned from work and school.

Coffee Talk.
If possible, try to have a few conversations with the “locals” near a prospective home. More than anyone, they have their fingers on the pulse of the neighborhood and the community at large.

Work With Your Employer.
If your spouse will be in need of a job, make it clear to your new employer. The company likely will have relationships with relocation experts and executive recruitment firms to help in the spousal job search process.

Simplify the Move.
Coldwell Banker Sea Coast Realty associates can offer assistance with all aspects of the move. They have lots of relocation experience and can recommend service providers and offer advice.

For more information, please visit http://www.seacoastrealty.com/ or find us on Facebook.

Staging a Home for First-Time Homebuyers

When it comes to staging a home for sale, it is important that sellers create a warm and inviting atmosphere that will appeal to as many potential buyers as possible.

Today, due to an abundance of low-priced homes to choose from, historically low interest rates and an $8,000 federal tax credit incentive, first-time homebuyers account for a greater number of these potential buyers than ever before.

However, sellers looking to attract this coveted demographic need not do a complete design overhaul. Staging a home for first-time homebuyers is easier than one might think.

Below are seven simple staging tips from Coldwell Banker Sea Coast Realty to help boost a home’s appeal and give owners the competitive edge necessary when selling a home.

Stage rooms with one purpose.
Extra rooms that have a mishmash of uses can confuse and even deter first-time homebuyers, so staging rooms with one purpose is vital. Keep in mind that these buyers are generally young couples without children, and rooms should be presented as areas equipped to meet their needs. So turn those playrooms and storage dens into a home office or the kids’ bedroom into a guest bedroom.

Tackle the easy “do-it-yourself” projects.
In a recent Coldwell Banker survey, 81 percent of brokers said today's first-time home buyers consider move-in conditions to be very important when searching for homes. To ensure that a home is in tip top shape make sure to replace outdated kitchen and bathroom fixtures, apply a fresh coat of paint to a worn wall and refinish the kitchen cabinets. Providing a sleek and modern look wherever possible can make a huge difference in the eyes of first-time homebuyers. To learn more about what home styles are “in fashion,” ask a local Coldwell Banker agent about the styles seen in homes that are selling in the area, and purchase a current interior design magazine for ideas.

Focus on the living areas.
A living room is an area in which potential first-time buyers should be able to envision themselves entertaining friends or gathering with their family. With that in mind, homeowners should make the area appear as large and functional as possible by removing any unnecessary furniture and decorations.

Make sure the master bedroom appeals to both sexes.
The master bedroom of a couple’s first home is often the first bedroom they will share. When staging this room, make sure that it appeals to buyers of both sexes. Remove any feature that seems too gender-specific and paint the walls a neutral color.

Clear the room of family portraits.
First-time homebuyers are looking for a home they can picture their family living in, not the previous owner’s. Coldwell Banker Sea Coast Realty recommends taking down family portraits, personal collections and knickknacks. Removing these items will also eliminate clutter and ensure that people are looking at the house for sale, not at the photos from the last family vacation.

Furnish the home, but don't overdo it.
While an empty home looks spacious, it is hard for new buyers to visualize their belongings in a home if they are staring at ceilings, floors and bare walls. Leave the basic components of each room, but make sure there is still plenty of open space.

Don’t forget to spruce up the yard.
First impressions often play a role in a consumer’s decision making process. In fact, 21 percent of participants in a recent Coldwell Banker survey knew their home was the one for them before even walking inside. Make sure the home’s exterior is inviting by trimming the bushes, mowing the lawn and painting faded window trim. Couples looking for their first home often have less yard work under their belts and will appreciate the seller’s attention to detail.

For more information, please visit www.SeaCoastRealty.com or find us on Facebook.

Officials Discuss Plans for Wilmington Growth

This week, state & local officials discussed plans for Wilmington's growth at an economic and business development forum hosted by Coastal Carolina Tomorrow.

Growth strategies included expanding the film industry and arts scene, becoming more involved in historic preservation, and fostering year-round tourism.

What actions would you like state & local leaders to take toward the Wilmington area's growth?

For more information, please visit http://www.seacoastrealty.com/ or find us on Facebook.

Carolina Beach, NC - What the Locals Say

The New Hanover County town of Carolina Beach has a laid-back attitude, dozens of restaurants, and countless ways to enjoy the beautiful outdoors.

Coldwell Banker Sea Coast Realty's Greg Barber is a Carolina Beach resident. He shares some of the great things to do and see in Carolina Beach, NC.

If you're in the market for a beach property without the hefty price tag, Greg says you'll want to check out Carolina Beach.



For more information, please visit http://www.seacoastrealty.com/ or find us on Facebook.

St. James, North Carolina

St. James, North Carolina is a small town located just outside of Southport, North Carolina.

Incorporated in 1999, the majority of the Town of St. James is located within the gated community of St. James Plantation. It features a full service marina, four premiere golf courses, tennis, beach activities, a private beach club, biking trails, walking paths and more.

St. James resident and Coldwell Banker Sea Coast Realty associate Ken Keegan shares his St. James expertise.



For more information, please visit SeaCoastRealty.com or find us on Facebook.

Relocating or retiring? Take a "Test Drive"

Thinking of relocating, but you just aren't sure? Why not take a "test drive"?

Pat Maloney with Coldwell Banker Sea Coast Realty's Southport, NC office suggests three great ways that you can get a feel for areas like the NC coast before you make a commitment.



Why not rent a beach cottage during the off-season to get a feel for the area? Pat says it's a great option, especially if you're already retired.

If you aren't retired, but want to test the waters, Pat suggests buying a "little something", a small home that you'll use for weekend getaways and family vacations. Then when you do retire, you can decide if moving to the coast is what you have in mind.

For those that are more daring, but still not ready to buy, Pat suggests moving somewhere and renting a home for no longer than 6 months. After that amount of time, you should have a good feel for the area and can make an informed decision about where to buy a home.

With all the natural beauty and friendly folks on the Cape Fear Coast, you'll be surprised how quickly you feel at home.

For more information, please visit SeaCoastRealty.com or find us on Facebook.

Honor Flight

Today we met Jason McLeod from Honor Flight Southeastern North Carolina. Honor Flight is an amazing all-volunteer effort dedicated to demonstrating respect and admiration for surviving World War II veterans by flying them at no cost to Washington, DC to see the World War II Memorial completed in 2004.



Please join us in making donations and volunteering to help Honor Flight Southeastern North Carolina make their inaugural flight April 13, 2010.

For more information about Honor Flight of Southeastern North Carolina, please visit http://www.honorflightsenc.org/.

To learn more about the national Honor Flight organization, log on to http://www.honorflight.org/.

Sea Coast Listings Hot In Cold Winter Months

Normally, the winter months are a pretty slow time in the real estate business. While the weather has been cold outside this year, the real estate market has been getting hotter and hotter.

In January 2009, homebuyers toured Coldwell Banker Sea Coast Realty listings 2,757 times! That's a whopping 72% increase from the previous month. The number of showings is expected to grow even more over the next few months.

Our real estate professionals say that there are lots of homebuyers hunting for homes earlier than usual this year, so that they can take advantage of the homebuyer tax credit before the April 30, 2010 deadline. First-time homebuyers are eligible for an $8,000 tax credit. Homeowners that have been in their current home for the last 5 years are also eligible for a $6,500 tax credit. In addition, real estate agents say that there are lots of investors and folks looking for second homes out looking for great properties at a bargain price.

If you are considering selling your home, it's smart to contact a Coldwell Banker Sea Coast Realty agent today. Our real estate professionals in New Hanover, Brunswick, Pender, and Onslow counties will expertly market your home, so that it will get the attention it deserves and sell for the most money.

Coldwell Banker Sea Coast Realty has been southeastern North Carolina's top home seller for the last 10 years! Find out more at SeaCoastRealty.com.

Boiling Spring Lakes, NC

The city of Boiling Spring Lakes takes its name from the array of 50 lakes and a natural boiling spring there.

Sharon Zakszeski with Coldwell Banker Sea Coast Realty, better known as Sharon "Zak", lives along the 10 mile shoreline of the "Big Lake," where she enjoys the natural beauty and friendly faces.



For more information, please visit http://www.seacoastrealty.com/ or find us on Facebook.

Aid For Home Buyers with Low Credit Scores

These days, homebuyers need a minimum 620 credit score to qualify for a home loan. However, folks with scores that aren't up to snuff don't have to kiss their dreams of home ownership goodbye. We're partnering with Wilmington-based American Credit Resolutions to help home buyers boost low credit scores.

"They were recommended to a client of mine and he went from a 570 credit score to over 620 in less than 10 days. I don't know how, but they did it and my client enjoyed working with them," said Sea Coast Realty associate Sherri Pickard referring to the credit clean-up team. Other associates praised American Credit Resolutions' quick results too.

American Credit Resolutions managing partner Dwayne Furmidge says that a "do-it-yourself" approach is the best way to solve credit problems. "However, there is a learning curve for most Americans and many make costly mistakes in the process," he says. Furmidge and his team put their years of experience to work, handling the often tedious process of resolving credit issues on behalf of their customers.

"Clients with small issues may be completed the same day," said Dwayne Furmidge, Managing Partner of American Credit Resolutions. "Clients with major issues may take longer." He says that the average credit clean up takes four months.

He warns consumers against working with credit repair companies that charge exorbitant fees and non-profit agencies that creditors sometimes pay to stretch out the credit repair process. The fees for American Credit Resolutions services vary depending on the issues, but the price for the average four month clean-up would cost $545.95 - a price many consider worthwhile when low credit scores stand between them and the dream of home ownership.

“Raising Walls, Raising Spirits”

Sixteen associates and staff from Coldwell Banker Sea Coast Realty's Leland, N.C. office recently took time out from selling homes to build one. The real estate professionals joined other volunteers in painting a home for Cape Fear Habitat for Humanity Saturday, January 23, 2010.

Howard Bailey, Julie Bass, Scott Bowser, Bruce Brown, Linda Cline, Peter David, Kari Essig, Brenda Freckleton, Doug Jackson, Linda Killian, Denise Kinney, Peggy McKay, Leslie Morgan, Karen Schwartz, Regina White, and Ophard Willis spent the day painting the primer coat on a new Habitat home in Navassa. They were joined by the homeowner, her family, Lam Nguyen from Alpha Mortgage, their friends and families, and other Habitat for Humanity volunteers.

"Throughout the day, we shared laughs and splattered paint marks on our faces," said Denise Kinney, managing broker of Sea Coast Realty's Leland office. "Volunteering for Habitat for Humanity was an amazing experience. I was so proud to see the Leland office supporting our community by lending a helping hand. We have a great team."

Since 1997, Coldwell Banker Sea Coast Realty has been involved in the construction of several homes for Cape Fear Habitat for Humanity.

"Raising walls, Raising spirits" for Cape Fear Habitat for Humanity are (left to right): FRONT: Julie Bass, Linda Cline, homeowner Carrie, & volunteer Lindsay Bass. BACK: volunteer Stephanie, Peter David, Lam Nguyen of Alpha Mortgage, Peggy McKay, Leslie Morgan, Howard Bailey, volunteer Corey, Bruce Brown, Doug Jackson, volunteer coordinator Julie Hale. Not pictured are: Scott Bowser, Kari Essig, Brenda Freckleton, Linda Killian, Denise Kinney, volunteer Trace McKay, Karen Schwartz, Regina White, volunteer Eddy Wilkinson, and Ophard Willis.