Commission focus is totally bogus! Jessica Riffle Edwards in Wilmington, NC

Visit my website: TheCarolinasFinest.com

Contact Jessica at 910-352-1043 or email JessicaRiffle@SeaCoastRealty.com.

Top 12 Women Real Estate Bloggers and Merry Christmas

Jessica has been named one of the TOP 12 WOMEN REAL ESTATE BLOGGERS IN 2009. Check out the full article at SellsiusRealEstate

Wishing you a very Merry Christmas and wonderful Holiday!

Contact Jessica at 910-352-1043 or email JessicaEdwards@SeaCoastRealty.com. Visit www.TheCarolinasFinest.com

Mortgage process is short and sweet in Wilmington, NC

Click here for more info on Wilmington, NC real estate!

Contact Jessica at 910-352-1043 or email JessicaEdwards@SeaCoastRealty.com.

Realtor Referrals

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Contact Jessica at 910-352-1043 or email JessicaEdwards@SeaCoastRealty.com.

Jessica Riffle Edwards

Your favorite Realtor is now Jessica Riffle EDWARDS....I'm married!

Contact Jessica at 910-352-1043 or email JessicaRiffle@SeaCoastRealty.com.

Buyers should be guided, not pushed.

A role of a buyer's agent is to guide, advise, educate, and negotiate on the behalf of the buyer purchasing the home. The role is not to push them into whatever home they think will be a fit.

For more information on Wilmington, NC area and Luxury Homes, click here!

Contact Jessica at 910-352-1043 or email JessicaRiffle@SeaCoastRealty.com.

Pre-qualified or pre-approved...it's not the same.

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Contact Jessica at 910-352-1043 or email JessicaRiffle@SeaCoastRealty.com.

It's the most wonderful time of the year. Wilmington, NC

Click Here for more information on Wilmington, NC real estate and luxury homes.

Contact Jessica at 910-352-1043 or email JessicaRiffle@SeaCoastRealty.com.

Don't picture your buyers into disapointment

Make sure you aren't setting your potential buyers up for disapointment.

Visit my website for more information on the Wilmington, NC area and real estate. CLICK HERE!

If you have any questions, comments or disagree please email Jessica at JessicaRiffle@SeaCoastRealty.com.

Agent Communication

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Contact Jessica at 910-352-1043 or email JessicaRiffle@SeaCoastRealty.com.

Happy Halloween!

Visit my website, click here!

Contact Jessica at 910-352-1043 or email JessicaRiffle@SeaCoastRealty.com.

Don't negotiate the non-negotiables!

For more info on Wilmington, NC real estate, click here!

Contact Jessica at 910-352-1043 or email JessicaRiffle@SeaCoastRealty.com.

You must have passion!

As a realtor, you must have passion, a spark! As a home seller or buyer you must seek a realtor that has a strong passion for what they do!

For more information on Wilmington, NC real estate, check out my website, click here!

Contact Jessica at 910-352-1043 or email JessicaRiffle@SeaCoastRealty.com.

New Construction Homes Wilmington NC

Visit my website for more information on Wilmington, NC Real Estate! Click Here!

Contact Jessica at 910-352-1043 or email JessicaRiffle@SeaCoastRealty.com.

Buyers Looking in the Right Time Frame

Why it is important for buyers not to start looking at homes to purchase before they are ready and still have another home to sell first.

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If you have any questions, comments or disagree, please email Jessica at JessicaRiffle@SeaCoastRealty.com.

Listing price should change.

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If you have any questions, comments or disagree, please email Jessica at JessicaRiffle@SeaCoastRealty.com.

Thank you from Jessica in Wilmington, NC!

My website: www.TheCarolinasFinest.com

Contact Jessica at 910-352-1043 or email JessicaRiffle@SeaCoastRealty.com.

TODAY Show Blog Features Jessica

The TODAY Show blog features Jessica...

Check out the video above and also at the TODAY Show Blog!

For more information on Wilmington, NC real estate, click here!

If you have questions, comments, or disagree with Jessica please email her at JessicaRiffle@SeaCoastRealty.com.

There is still time to get your $8000!

On this mornings Today Show some very frustrating and incorrect information was announced. In the real estate clip it was stated that is was too late to purchase a house and get the $8000 tax credit because ALL home loans now take 60-90 days to close, so you are too late. WRONG!!!! COMPLETELY WRONG!!!! All of my closings are 30 days and even less. This is so frustrating and really annoying. I dont know about other area, but in Wilmington, NC we can get a loan closed in 30 days just like always.
If you have comments or disagree you can email Jessica at JessicaRiffle@SeaCoastRealty.com.

Sea Coast Realty Goes Mobile

Check out mobile.seacoastrealty.com from your blackberry or iphone to search homes for sale in Southeastern NC. Coldwell Banker Sea Coast Realty is the first real estate company in this area to release this awesome new feature.

For more information on Wilmington, NC real estate and luxury real estate, click here!

If you have comments or disagree please email Jessica at JessicaRiffle@SeaCoastRealty.com.

What picture are you showing?

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Contact Jessica at 910-352-1043 or email JessicaRiffle@SeaCoastRealty.com.

Are you sure your house is that size? Wilmington, NC

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Contact Jessica at 910-352-1043 or email JessicaRiffle@SeaCoastRealty.com.

Call me. Wilmington, NC

If you have any questions, comments, or disagree please email Jessica at JessicaRiffle@SeaCoastRealty.com.

What's wrong with "looking for a house"? Wilmington, NC

Make sure you think about how you are "looking" for a home. Sometimes the looking part gets very clouded and becomes way more difficult than it should. Finding and buying a home should be a fun and exciting process. If not, you need to step back and look at why it is not.

For more information on Wilmington, NC area and real estate, click here!

If you disagree or have any comments you may contact Jessica at 910-352-1043 or email JessicaRiffle@SeaCoastRealty.com.

You might discount yourself into a failed listing.

Scheduling an appointment to show a house should be easy, right? Not always. Sometimes choosing a "discount company" discounts the sellers right out of the market. The house I attempted to show had been on the market for about a month and I am guessing they were wondering why no one was showing it. Even worse, there was no way to submit an offer, no contact person, no agent, no seller info. In the location and price point it should have been shown many times and maybe had an offer. Sellers: Don't cut yourself short to save a few thousand dollars. If you are offering buyer agent fees and paying something to the discount house, why not give your home, probably your biggest assett, the credit it deserves to have it marketed and SOLD properly. It is amazing how many times I see listings that are listed with a fee agency or discount broker and the zip code is wrong or there are no inside pictures. If a 12 year old can sell a baseball better on EBay, what in the world are you doing?!?

If you have any comments of disagree, please email Jessica at JessicaRiffle@SeaCoastRealty.com.

HGTV Gone Wrong in Wilmington, NC

Contact Jessica at 910-352-1043 or email JessicaRiffle@SeaCoastRealty.com.

Month over Month RE Stats

I thought it might be a good idea to update everyone on the past few months selling activity in New Hanover County.

In May there were 232 homes sold ranging from $285,030 up to $3,400,000! Average time on the market for these homes was 132 days.

In June there were 233 homes sold ranging from $285,399 up to $2,101,000. Average time on the market for these homes was 150 days.

In July there were 259 homes sold ranging from $225,428 up to $1,000,000. Average time on the market for these homes was 129 days.

Interesting that the number of homes selling has been steadily increasing with top prices coming down but time on market coming down as well. Thanks for tuning in!

Contact Jessica at 910-352-1043 or email JessicaRiffle@SeaCoastRealty.com.

Interviewing Agents

If you have comments or disagree please contact Jessica at jessicariffle@seacoastrealty.com.

For more info on the Wilmington, NC area and Wilmington, NC real estate click here!

Alex Paen guest blog's for Jessica!

Alex Paen of Coldwell Banker Sea Coast Realty guest blogs for Jessica Riffle while she is on Vacation.

Contact Jessica at JessicaRiffle@SeaCoastRealty.com!

Click to visit TheCarolinasFinest for more info on Wilmington, NC area and real estate!

A Bikers View of Wilmington by Brian Moxey

If you have comments or disagree please contact Jessica at jessicariffle@seacoastrealty.c om. For more info on the Wilmington, NC area and Wilmington, NC real estate visit www.TheCarolinasFinest.com

Feedback Standards

If you have comments or disagree please contact Jessica at jessicariffle@seacoastrealty.com.

For more info on the Wilmington, NC area and Wilmington, NC real estate click here!

The appraiser WANTS it to appraise, let's make their job easier!

An appraiser's job is not always easy, but it is important to remember that they WANT a property to appraise. It only makes their job more difficult when something doesn't appraise or they cannot get it to appraise with the available comparables.
For more information on the Wilmington, NC area and Wilmington real estate, click here!If you disagree with Jessica you may contact her at JessicaRiffle@SeaCoastRealty.com.

Lenders reputation or lack of can tell you the bigger story, not what they promise.

When deciding on a lender for you home purchase it is important to keep in mind the reputation, or lack of, that the lender has. Often choosing someone who will cut fees and agrees to this and that, etc, that other lenders will not comes back to bite you at the closing table....if you get that far. Too many times when someone goes with the person who cuts this and that and promises all these things ends up coming to a hault half way through the process when the lender all of sudden says "oh, well that wont actually work, or we can't actually get that rate or do this bc of whatever". You want a lender who is reputable and more importantly someone who will get you exactly what they told you.....no surprises and no oopsie's. Save $300 today maybe cost you $3000 before the process is over.

If you disagree with what Jessica says, please contact her at JessicaRiffle@SeaCoastRealty.com. And, CLICK HERE for more info on Wilmington, NC real estate!

Put it away...your doll collection is distracting from selling your home.

Put it away! Collectibles and trinket collections are so distracting and draw attention away from what buyers are supposed to be looking at...your home!

If you disagree with Jessica, please contact her at JessicaRiffle@SeaCoastRealty.com.

CLICK HERE for more info on Wilmington NC and Wilmington Real Estate.

First time home buyer, not unprepared home buyer.

If you are a first time home buyer, there are a few steps that are important to remember. One being that it is important to ask for advice and opinions from only a few trusted people that you decide will help you with this process. If you talk about your home purchase with everyone you know, friends, family, co-workers, etc you are going to end up with so many different opinions that your head will spin. Watch the entire video...My video blog: http://www.HotPropertyBlog.com

Is you disagree or have comments/questions contact Jessica at JessicaRiffle@SeaCoastRealty.com. For more information on Wilmington, NC real estate and luxury real estate, click here!

What the *&% is the smell?

Sellers: If you are trying to sell your house than keep in mind that some people may not like the lilac scent of a plug in that you have in every outlet of your house. Also, buyers may not stay and actually take a good look at your home is if smells like tonights dinner....sauerkraut and pork anyone? Smell in one of the 5 senses....that mean...yucky smell equals not a good emotional connection. If you want to sell you home take out the trash and keep the scent neutral.

For more information on Wilmington, NC real estate, click here.

Contact Jessica at JessicaRiffle@SeaCoastRealty.com.

Investors take inventory of your tenants...

If you have any questions or disagee with what Jessica has said please feel free to contact her at 910-352-1043 or JessicaRiffle@SeaCoastRealty.com.

For more information on Wilmington NC Real Estate click here!

I am not a tour guide, this isn't HGTV.

As a Realtor in NC I am required by law to explain to a potential client or any customer, how they will be represented by an real estate agent. You can be represented as a buyer or a seller. As a buyer's agent, most experienced and educated Realtors will require that you work exclusively with them under an exclusive buyer agency agreement. This protects the buyer...if your agent isn't representing you then by law we work for the seller and must look out for their best interests not yours. And it protects the agent, who is not paid hourly or reimbursed for gas or for the time, etc, unless someone purchases a property. As an agent and a real estate consumer/buyer I will only work under this agreement. Why should I be loyal to you if you arent loyal to me?

Contact Jessica at 910-352-1043 or email JessicaRiffle@SeaCoastRealty.com.

Wilmington housing market seeing signs of comeback

Check out his Real Estate News Story from News 14 Carolina featuring real esate opinion from Jessica:

Click here to watch Jessica on News 14 Carolina!


Contact Jessica at 910-352-1043 or email JessicaRiffle@SeaCoastRealty.com.

News 14 Carolina

If you are in Wilmington, NC or the surrounding area be sure to check out News 14 Carolina, a Time Warner Cable channel, tonight starting at 5. I met with a reporter from News 14 Carolina today to discuss the market activity we have been experiencing. The story should run continuesly this evening and maybe online as well. Don't miss it! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_qBK_RDeIs0

Contact Jessica at 910-352-1043 or email JessicaRiffle@SeaCoastRealty.com.

Click here for more Wilmington, NC real estate info!

Correction / Clarification

In regards to my blog on Friday titled "Coldwell Banker Sea Coast Realty ROCKS!"...

In my video below I stated that we “sold a house every 2.5 hours”….which is correct for the month of June and yes, it is based on 24/7. CBSC did sell a house every 2.5 hours for the month of June.

HOWEVER, in the video I was saying that it was for 2009, for all of this year, we sell a house every 2.5 hours. That is not correct. If you pull the numbers for the entire year and base it on 24/7 we have been selling a house every 3 ½ hours since January 1. That was completely my fault….I guess I really shouldn’t have dropped AP Calculus my senior year of high school...maybe I would be able to add/multiple/and divide properly. LOL

So, yes 24/7, yes every 2.5 for June, but for all of 2009 it is every 3.5 hours.

Which I must say is not too shabby of a number.

Hope this is good clarification. Please let me know if you have any other questions.

For more info on Wilmington, NC Real Estate, click here!

Contact Jessica at 910-352-1043 or email JessicaRiffle@SeaCoastRealty.com.

Appeal to the masses and get your house SOLD!

Contact Jessica at 910-352-1043 or email JessicaRiffle@SeaCoastRealty.com.

Coldwell Banker Sea Coast Realty ROCKS!

Wow, Coldwell Banker Sea Coast Realty is having an awesome 2009! We are selling a house every 2 1/2 hours!!! Yes, that's right, every 2.5 hours CB Sea Coast Realty sells a house. June of 2009 was our best month in sales since August of 2007. The market has consistently picked up every single month since October of 2008! If you are thinking of buying you better not wait any longer....you may have already missed out on the best deals, but there are still some out there!
If you have any questions or disagree with what Jessica has said please email her at, JessicaRiffle@SeaCoastRealty.com.

Negotiations are often the most important factor in a real estate transaction

Negotiations are often the single most important piece to any real estate transaction. Terms of the contract, dates, price, inspection items, and repairs are all things that your Realtor must negotiate for you. If your agent does not have strong negotiating skills you could be leaving a lot on the table and not getting everything you could. Also, you must be able to trust that your agent knows the best negotiation tactics to get you what you want.
If you have any comments or disagree, please email Jessica at JessicaRiffle@SeaCoastRealty.com.

Twitter This....

I need your help. I want to like Twitter, to embrace it, and use it effectively....but it drives me insane! I cannot get excited about it or really like it at all to be honest. I don’t understand why it is common courtesy to follow someone back just because they are following you and I also don’t understand why other people care about articles online that people post all the time. Help! Make me appreciate Twitter....

If you disagree or have a comment please feel free to email Jessica at JessicaRiffle@SeaCoastRealty.com.

For more information on the Wilmington, NC area and real estate, click here!

Honey, I don't "do"computers...Wilmington, NC

Is it possible for someone to be a real estate agent and not use a computer...at all. No way! Not in my book. I cannot even begin to imagine how you could function...at all.
Contact Jessica at 910-352-1043 or email JessicaRiffle@SeaCoastRealty.com.

Remove by request, no need to yell at me!

If you wish to be removed from receiving any emails....even if you requested to receive them....all to have to do is let me know. Reply to an email or talk to me about it. No problem. Why would I want to send emails to someone who doesn't want them? That would be a waste of time. I do not need yelled at to follow a request. I can hear if you speak normally.

Contact Jessica at 910-352-1043 or email JessicaRiffle@SeaCoastRealty.com.
For more information on Wilmington, NC real estate or Wilmington Luxury Homes, click here.

Does buyer agent commission matter?

Yes! Make sure that you are creating a buzz or excitment for a buyer's agent to sell your home. No, they cannot steer clients toward a home with higher fees to the buyers agent, but let's face it, everyone is human and who doesn't want to get paid more to do their job? When selling your home you must sell it to the agents as well as the potential buyers. A higher buyer agent commission will only benefit you the seller and could mean you see more showings and sell your home faster!

If you have comments of disagree please feel free to email Jessica @ JessicaRiffle@SeaCoastRealty.com.

Click here for more Wilmington, NC Real Estate info!

Pictures really are worth a thousand, dollars that is, in real estate. Wilmington, NC

Pictures in real estate are more important now than they ever have been. With the large majority of buyers searching online and agents searching through high inventory for homes that best meet their buyers needs it is so important to make sure that your home is being showin in it's best light through the photos used. Make sure your agent is maximizing or close to maximizing the number of photos allowed on various online sites as well as the local MLS. Make sure that your home looks stellar online. It should look better and the same as it does in person. You have got to get those buyers inside and if the pictures are lacking or are not flattering, then you may lose interest.
Contact Jessica at 910-352-1043 or email JessicaRiffle@SeaCoastRealty.com.

Watch that price...199,900 may not be such a good thing. Wilmington, NC

There are several things to think about when pricing your home. We all know the most important like current market activity, but what about search ability? Typically, searches auto-populate the price ranges we can choose from. Meaning we, agents and buyers, search in increments of 25-50,000. Usually when someone's price range is 300-350,000 we all search up to say 360,000. I don’t think anyone ever thinks to search down by 5,000 or 10,000. So if you list you home at 299,000 you are potentially cutting out A LOT of buyers that are search at 300,000 and above. Don't miss out on potential buyers and make sure your price is optimizing the number of searchers out there!
Contact Jessica at 910-352-1043 or email JessicaRiffle@SeaCoastRealty.com.

Greater Wilmington Business Journal

Greater Wilmington Business Journal

Shared via AddThis

You have to pay to stay and especially to buy! Real Estate in Wilmington, NC

If you have any questions or disagree please contact Jessica at 910-352-1043 or email JessicaRiffle@SeaCoastRealty.com.

Communication is Key in Real Estate, Wilmington, NC

Communication is often the most important part of any real estate sale and or tranaction. Unfortunately, sometimes the simplest things are the hardest for some people to do...If you have any comments or disagree, please feel free to email Jessica at JessicaRiffle@SeaCoastRealty.com.

For more information on Wilmington Real Estate & Wilmington Luxury Homes, click here!

Real Estate Flyers...Are they worth it?

Do you often see flyer boxes next to for sale signs that are empty or the flyers are wet and stuck together? If you were really interested in a house don't you think you would call the listing agent for more info or your own buyer's agent? If you are a seller wouldn't you want someone to speak with your agent or an agent on duty in regards to your house rather than grabbing a flyer and driving off? I think they are a waste...what about you? If you have any comments or disagree, please feel free to email Jessica at JessicaRiffle@SeaCoastRealty.com.

For more info on Wilmington NC Real Estate & Wilmington Luxury Homes, click here!

Open for Business, Realtor Hours, Wilmington, NC

As a Realtor, my office hours are never set in stone. In fact, often, my "office hours" doesn't mean I am actually in the office. I am available by cell phone daily from 8am until 10pm. Other than that my "work hours" change from day to day. Sometimes, I may be in the office or on appointments listing homes or showing homes until 8 o'clock at night. Other days I may be done working at 5 or 6. The same goes for morning. Sometimes I am in the office most of the day and others hardly at all. So, when working with a Realtor, it is best to not feel like you are "bothering them" or "making them stay late" in the evenings. Part of my job is to be available at times convenient for my clients. All you have to do is ask and if I am available at that time, I will be happy to accomodate your schedule.

If you have any questions, comments or disagree with what I have to say, please feel free to comment or email me at JessicaRiffle@SeaCoastRealty.com.

For more information on Wilmington, NC Real Estate and Wilmington Luxury Homes or to search all homes for sale in the Wilmington area, Click Here!

Contact Jessica at 910-352-1043 or email JessicaRiffle@SeaCoastRealty.com.

Resale Value Always Important to Think About When Buying

Resale value matters even if you have no plans to resell anytime soon.

Contact Jessica at 910-352-1043 or email JessicaRiffle@SeaCoastRealty.com.

April v May - RE Stats

The last few months in Real Estate have been quite interesting with low rates, low prices and a lot of activity in the Cape Fear Region. I thought it might be a good idea to take a look at the April vs May sold stats for the Tri-County region.

In April:

- 282 properties Were Sold
- Avg. Sales Price: $232,315
- Avg. List Price: $246,387
- Min. Sell Price: $21,300
- Max. Sell Price: $1,630,000 (ahhh to live on the water)
- Avg: Days On Market: 138

In May:

- 310 properties Were Sold
- Avg. Sales Price: $273,404
- Avg. List Price: $292,256
- Min. Sell Price: $26,500
- Max. Sell Price: $3,400,000 (ahhh to live on the beach)
- Avg: Days On Market: 135

Overall the change from April to May was VERY positive for sellers. Sale prices went up, number of properties sold went up, and days on market went down. Let's hope that June will be an equally positive review! For more information on Wilmington, NC Real Estate go to www.TheCarolinasFinest.com.

Contact Jessica at 910-352-1043 or email JessicaRiffle@SeaCoastRealty.com.

Bands battle at boardwalk in Carolina Beach

Some great new activities at Carolina Beach.

The first ever Battle of the Bands was held as part of the Carolina Beach Boardwalk Makeover Program on Saturday.

Six groups competed in the first of three preliminary rounds.

Area music professionals will choose the best two groups to compete in the finals and have the chance to win several prizes.

“We have some great prizes… 20 hours of studio time from Cape Fear Studios, gift certificates from Varno Equipment, The Beat magazine has sponsored, as well as Modern Music has given some gift certificates,” said Brett Keeler of the CBBMP.

The Carolina Beach Boardwalk Makeover Program is a campaign to improve the boardwalk area with entertainment events, and construction projects.

Contact Jessica at 910-352-1043 or email JessicaRiffle@SeaCoastRealty.com.

Surfing the web on the Intracoastal Waterway

From WWAY:

A Wilmington company called icwifi.net provides high-speed wireless internet access to boaters. Now checking the forecast on the water is just a click away.

Year round, boats stroll up and down the Intracoastal Waterway in Wrightsville Beach. Many have laptops on board, but couldn't get a connection…until icwifi.net came along.

"If you're out in the water and you don't have a good radar and you've got a storm coming and you're deciding do you go in for the night, or do you stay out hooked up for the rest of the night, you have to be able to see that and with icwifi, we'll allow you to do that,” said marketing manager Anna Hoggard.

If you're in the Motts or Banks channels of the ICW, you're in the coverage zone. When you click on the internet, a screen will pop up prompting you to sign up for icwifi.

The service costs $3 per day, $10 per week, or $30 per month.

You'll get a code you'll punch in to surf the web. "You can be in your house with the same code, and get on your boat with your laptop and go over to Masonboro Island and get on the internet there, so you can sit on the beach, sit on the dock, or sit on the porch," Hoggard explained.

People on shore can use the connection too, as icwifi.net has several antennas along the ICW like on top of Mott's Channel Seafood.

"It's good reliable high speed internet, we use it everyday,” said Motts’ manager Tom Franz who uses the connection to check the weather so he knows when to expect boats coming in with fresh seafood.

The company just started in March. In the coming months, icwifi.net hopes to expand their service to the Cape Fear River in downtown Wilmington, as far south as Myrtle Beach, and north to Morehead City.


Contact Jessica at 910-352-1043 or email JessicaRiffle@SeaCoastRealty.com.

Having A License Doesn't Make You An Agent

Having a real estate license doesn't make you a real estate agent. Actively working in the market, keeping up with statistics, the latest trends and information is what truly makes a good agent!

Contact Jessica at 910-352-1043 or email JessicaRiffle@SeaCoastRealty.com.

Who brought the buyer, who brought the offer? Real Estate in Wilmington, NC

This is my response to a FSBO seller that was wondering about the buyer's agent that brought them an acceptable offer on their 400,000 home which is now under contract! Pay that agent for doing their job and be happy and thankful you are selling your home!!!

For more information on Wilmington NC real estate and Wilmington Luxury Homes, click here!
Contact Jessica at 910-352-1043 or email JessicaRiffle@SeaCoastRealty.com.

FREE Buyers Agent

In the state of North Carolina you can have full representation when buying a home and it is FREE!

Contact Jessica at 910-352-1043 or email JessicaRiffle@SeaCoastRealty.com.

Click here for more Wilmington, NC Real Estate Information!

Rates On 30 Year Mortgages Fall Near Record Low

U.S. mortgage rates fell in the latest week, trekking closer to a record low set last month.

Interest rates on U.S. 30-year fixed-rate mortgages fell to 4.82 percent for the week ending May 21, down from the previous week's 4.86 percent, according to a survey released on Thursday by home funding company Freddie Mac.
Three weeks earlier, the 30-year fixed-rate mortgage equaled the record low of 4.78 percent set in the week ending April 2, which was the lowest since Freddie Mac started the Primary Mortgage Market Survey in 1971.

"Long-term fixed-rate mortgage rates have remained below 5.0 percent for the past 10 weeks as the U.S. Treasury and Federal Reserve act to keep interest rates low through security purchases," Frank Nothaft, Freddie Mac vice president and chief economist, said in a statement.

Contact Jessica at 910-352-1043 or email JessicaRiffle@SeaCoastRealty.com.

No Amount of Marketing can Sell an Overpriced House

I have been talking a lot about how awesome the real estate market is right now in the Wilmington, NC area and how much activity and sales we have been seeing
over the last 6 months. However, we are still in a buyer's market. Which basically means more people are selling than buying.

So, when selling your home in a buyers market you have to be top notch in 4 areas: Price, Condition, Incentives, and Marketing. There is a flow in the market right now and there is also a stagnant spot. Too many people have overpriced in the beginnning, not gotten their home in the best condition, not offered incentives, or not partnered with an excellent agent and company. Any one of these things can pull a house into the "stagnant zone" where it will sit. Once you become stagnant, you will probably sit and sit even when the price is reduced.

Remember, "No amount of marketing can sell an overpriced home."

Then there are those houses that price well, get their home "show ready" and in the best condition, they offer incentives, and they pair with a Realtor that will market their home effectively.

They get in the market, get an offer soon, and get out. Ultimately, they make more money than they guy waiting and waiting and now holding his hands in the air going "How did they do that?!?"

Contact Jessica at 910-352-1043 or email JessicaRiffle@SeaCoastRealty.com.

Click here for more Wilmington, NC Real Estate Tips and Information!

8000 Tax Credit as Down Payment...Maybe, Maybe Not

It seems the announcement from HUD of the possibility the government allowing using the current 8000 tax credit as a down payment on a home purchase was a bit premature. They have now removed it from the website and it looks like it was more of a thought or an idea that comething concrete. Surprise, surprise....

For more information on Wilmington, NC Real Estate or Luxury Homes, click here!

Contact Jessica at 910-352-1043 or email JessicaRiffle@SeaCoastRealty.com.

Down Payment Assitance

The included information is from my friend Chris Hutchens at Alpha Mortgage...

HUD recently announced that qualified First-Time Home Buyers who want to take advantage of the available tax credit of up to $8,000 now have another option available to them to help them become homeowners.

It's clear that first-time home buyers have been having a major impact on the housing market this year. The National Association of Realtors announced that first-time buyers, who typically account for less than 40% of home sales each year, have been especially busy…in March, homes that were purchased by first-timers accounted for 53% of all sales, and this percentage is expected to hold true for all of 2009.

With home affordability higher than ever, available tax credits and some of the lowest interest rates ever recorded for home loans, who can blame them? Particularly as a first-time buyer, there may never be a better time to buy a home than right now.

However, the availability of a tax credit, while a great incentive, does not put the money in the hands of a buyer right away. HUD's announcement now allows for prospective and qualified home buyers to borrow the money from approved agencies and lenders.

While details of participating lenders and HUD-approved agencies are not yet available, this should turn up the heat on prospective buyers to get busy searching for their next home. As further details become available, I will get them to you.

In the meantime, alert your database that one more barrier to homeownership is being removed and the time to start shopping is now!

You may contact Chris Hutchens at Alpha Mortgage by emailing chris.hutchens@alphamortgage.com. Please tell him I sent you!

Contact Jessica at 910-352-1043 or email JessicaRiffle@SeaCoastRealty.com.

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Wilmington, NC Real Estate April 08-09 Stats

The numbers are in for April 2008 to April 2009 for the regional Wilmington, NC real estate market....and they are looking good. Inventory is down, new homes coming on the market are down, sales are up, contracts are up, and prices are still low! All good signs to buy now and not wait until prices pick up as well. Usually inventory shrinks first, then sales pick up, and then prices start to pick up. There is only one thing left and if you are a buyer it is not what you want to wait on.

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Contact Jessica at 910-352-1043 or email JessicaRiffle@SeaCoastRealty.com.

Relationships Among Realtors Just Like a Playground, Wilmington, NC

It is so important for Realtors to have awesome reputations and relationships in order to best serve their buyer and seller clients. I think it is just like the playground...no one wants to play with the kid that pushes and shoves and is mean to everyone. If you are not easy to work with and not well respected then other agents won't want to show and sell your listings. Also, it will be harder for you to get the deal your buyer wants if you can't communicate nicely and work with the other agent.

Contact Jessica at 910-352-1043 or email JessicaRiffle@SeaCoastRealty.com.

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Wilmington: Coastal Dream Town!

Wilmington has been named as one of eighteen coastal dream towns. In Coastal Living Magazine's May issue of Best Places to Live in the Region for Every Budget, the Port City came in 18th.

Allure factors include a revitalized downtown, Riverwalk, and a lively performing arts scene.

The region's film industry also received a big nod with film festivals and Screen Gem Studios' new soundstage that's in the works.

Contact Jessica at 910-352-1043 or email JessicaRiffle@SeaCoastRealty.com.

Selling your house? Know your competition.

As a home seller and depending on the neighborhood, it can sometimes be extremely valuable to you to view all the other homes currently for sale in your neighborhood. This way, you will know exactly what your competition is and how you compare in price and condition. If you disagree or would like to voice your opinion, please feel free to email me at JessicaRiffle@SeaCoastRealty.com

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First Offer Sets Tone, Don't Sell Yourself Short

If you are a buyer purchasing real estate it is important to keep in mind that your original offer is often the most important. Make sure it is realistic and appealing to you and the seller. Sometimes dates and loan conditions are just as important as price.

If you have any questions or comments or disagree with what I have to say, please email me at JessicaRiffle@SeaCoastRealty.com.

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Increased Market Activity

Just wanted to share with all of you the great news in regards to Contract Activity for Coldwell Banker Sea Coast Realty. Last week's Contracts were 19.8 Million with 78 Contracts!

That makes over 62 Million in the last 3 weeks alone!!

Also, for the month of April, we placed over 82.8 Million Under Contract with 327 Contracts! This marks our SIXTH CONSECUTIVE MONTH with INCREASED SALES! That is awesome and certainly, shows a trend that is happening right now in the Wilmington area real estate market.

We are seeing increased market activity and NOW is the time to take advantage of the market.

Call me today!

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Contact Jessica at 910-352-1043 or email JessicaRiffle@SeaCoastRealty.com.

Online Real Estate Bashers, Please State Your Name. Wilmington, NC

It really bothers me when someones goal is to just bash the real estate profession and realtors and not respect different opinions or advice. There are websites out that aim to assist the general public with all kinds of real estate matters. Then there are people who set out to hassle anyone that tries to answer a question or give advice on those sites. The worst part is that most of these pathetic bashers choose to stay anonymous. Also, if you are so set on those beliefs than why remain nameless? Let us know who you are and then speak your mind. It will have much more credibility. If you would like to voice your opinion or disagree with me please let me know at JessicaRiffle@SeaCoastRealty.com or comment below.

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Pre Approval First Step When Purchasing Home

When you are thinking about buying a home most people get excited and start looking and searching before talking with a lender. The general thought is that you talk to a lender after you find the perfect home. This is totally wrong. You should speak with a reputable lender and get pre approved and pre qualified to get a loan. That lender needs to run your credit, verify income, etc so that you know how what price range you are approved for, what your monthly payments will be, and what your down payment will be. It is amazing sometimes how far off some are when thinking of a price and then actually speaking to a lender. You may think that the price they would qualify for would go down, but often it does go up! With interest rates and different loan programs available sometimes people are able to get more house for less money down or per month than they thought. Also, it is the buyer's agents duty to make sure that their buyers are qualified to purchase the homes they are showing them. If you were a seller you would want the same. So, talk to a lender, run the numbers, get approved...before you start looking at homes.

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Contact Jessica at 910-352-1043 or email JessicaRiffle@SeaCoastRealty.com.

Is Print Advertising Dead? Web 2.0 and Social Media Marketing in Real Estate

As a Real Estate Broker and Realtor it is extremely important to keep up with the latest marketing trends and technology. I need to make sure that I am serving my sellers and marketing their homes in the best way possible. I need to be sure that by doing this we are getting those homes in front of buyers. As technology changes the way real estate is advertised I have to ask..."Is print advertising dead?" If over 84% of buyers start their home search online and if a buyer is 900% (9 to 1) more likely to find their home on the internet rather than in a newspaper, should Realtors be advertising homes there?

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UNDER CONTRACT

7102 Medallion Place is now Under Contract In Only 14 DAYS!










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To find out what your home is worth visit www.myhomevaluenc.com!

Contact Jessica at 910-352-1043 or JessicaRiffle@SeaCoastRealty.com

Current Market Activity Very High

Coldwell Banker Sea Coast Realty is rockin and rollin this April. Last week we had just under 25 million in contracts turned in! This is awesome. The market is shifting. The numbers are showing it and you can see it. My listings are getting more showings, more agents are meeting with clients, homes are going under contract and selling! This is great for everyone. The market in Wilmington is picking up and the excitement is in the air. If you are a buyer, get in the game before you realize you missed an awesome opportunity.

Click here for more info on Wilmington NC Real Estate!

Contact Jessica at 910-352-1043 or JessicaRiffle@SeaCoastRealty.com

OPEN HOUSE EXTRAVAGANZA!

Wow! Check out Coldwell Banker Sea Coast Realty's Open House Extravaganza going on all weekend long! There will be over 100 homes open today and tomorrrow across the Wilmington region. I have a few featured listings that are priced to sell and will be open this weekend. I have included these below. For a complete list of all open houses this weekend, click here!

If you see something you are interested in, have more questions, or want to make an offer please contact me at JessicaRiffle@SeaCoastRealty.com or 910-352-1043.

For more information on Wilmington, NC real estate, click here!

1307 Portside Drive ~ $325,000

OPEN Sunday 1-4

More Info!

1303 Kingfisher Court ~ $390,000

OPEN Saturday 10-12 and Sunday 1-3

More Info!

225 Oakhurst Road ~ $245,000

OPEN Sunday 1-4

More Info!

Home Warranty Extra Peace of Mind

Sellers often offer a Home Warranty to the buyer when selling their home. Buyers often don't realize how beneficial this is to them when purchasing a house. The buyer will be covered, usually for a year, on things such as HVAC, plumbing, electrical, etc. This means that is soemthing goes wrong the warranty company pays for it to be repaired and if it can't be repaired the will replace it! It is great added peace of mind when purchasing a home.

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Contact Jessica at 910-352-1043 or JessicaRiffle@SeaCoastRealty.com

No Increase Beach and Fair Plans

Below is a web posting from the North Carolina Insurance Underwriters, dated 4/15/09, that the previously state wind/hail increases will NOT go through.

This is great news for everyone: home owner, buyer, and seller!

A legal challenge to increases in certain Beach and FAIR Plan deductibles and surcharges approved by the Commissioner of Insurance in November of 2008 is underway. The commissioner approved these changes to be effective February 1, 2009. On March 20, 2009, the Wake County Superior Court stayed the Commissioner’s approval of these changes and remanded the matter to the Department of Insurance to conduct proceedings to develop findings to support the Commissioner’s decisions and create a record for appeal.

Pending final resolution of the legal challenge, the Beach and FAIR Plans are proceeding to implement a roll back of the deductibles and surcharges to the levels that existed prior to the effective date of the Commissioner’s approval of these changes. Staff is working with the Department of Insurance to accomplish this roll back to explain and implement all premium, deductible, and claims adjustments that are required.

This roll back does not apply to the NC Rate Bureau’s homeowners rate revision, which is to take effect May 1, 2009.

If you have insurance questions please feel free to contact Karen Shanley with Nationwide Insurance at 910-202-3676 or shanlek1@nationwide.com.

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Real Estate for Money, Never Good

Thinking of getting to Real Estate. Think about your motives, desires, and goals. There is often a lot more to real estate and being a successful broker than what the public sees on a daily basis. If you look at the top real estate agents in any marketplace, those that are successful are those that are passionate. It is not an easy business, but can be a great one if your heart is in the right place!

Looking, Waiting for Bottom

When someone is always waiting for the bottom or top of the market they will always miss it. You cannot know when the bottom is until it has passed. Just like you cannot know when the top of the market is untii it has passed. To be successful in real estate you must jump in when you see an opportune time. Now is that time. If you wait and then say, oh, now I am ready the bottom has passed you will have less inventory to choose from, more competition from more buyers in the market, and possibly higher prices. You can't wait and if you do you will never time it perfectly. If you disagree with me or have any comments, please email me at JessicaRiffle@SeaCoastRealty.com.

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Wilmington Ranked 13

Forbes.com has ranked the best places in the U.S. for business and careers and Wilmington, NC is ranked number 13!

Wilmington, along with a few other, Tar Heel cities have been top rated on this list. You may be wondering why I think this is so awesome if other cities outrated Wilmington...The answer is simple. Most of the cities on this list are not also listed on multiple "best of lists" for places to vacation, invest in property, best retirement cities, and top universities. Wilmington has it all and has been ranked highly and at the tops of lists in all these categories.

Just another reason why I believe Wilmington, NC is the place to be!

Read the Article here!

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Detroit, Final Four, and Real Estate

Right now I am in Detoit, Michigan for the NCAA Final Four. Go Heels! While here it is obvious to see how much Detroit is economically suffering. The people are friendly and the city is in much need of the tourism here for the weekend.

Foreclosed homes in Detroit are selling from $1.00 to $10,000 and foreign buyers are snapping them up, according to a report in the Chicago Tribune. Real estate agent Michael Shannon recently sold 30 homes in one day to one buyer. A trio of U.K. investors has bought a half-dozen and plans many more. "I thought it would be quite good fun to have a look," said Darren Veness, an investor from Brighton, England.

Detroit has been hit hard by the economic downturn and currently has one of the lowest home ownership rates in the country. Veness and his colleagues "have considered other U.S. cities," says the report, "but so far Detroit is it. For them, it's simple: The homes are cheap and plentiful."

....source realtor.org...

GO HEELS!!!!!!!!!

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Crime and Schools

When it comes to crime and schools your Realtor cannot comment. Log on to multiple sites to find the information you are seeking without an opinion bias.

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Email me at JessicaRiffle@SeaCoastRealty.com

Wilmington ranked no. 13 for business and careers

WILMINGTON, NC (WECT) - Lucky number 13 - for Wilmington, at least.

Forbes Magazine has ranked Wilmington the 13th best places in the nation for business and careers.

The rankings were based on the research from data on job growth over the past five years and projections through 2011.

Business and living cost data were also taken into account, in addition to income growth and migration trends.

North Carolina had several cities in the top ten including: Asheville at 6th, Durham in 3rd, and Raleigh took the number one spot for the third straight year.

Forbes reports that employment is expected to fall during 2009 in Raleigh after jobs were added at a 4% annual clip the past five years.

They say the job picture is expected to brighten in 2010 and 2011, and the three-year projected annual employment gain is 1.4%. according to Moody's Economy.com, 15th best in the country.

Click here for information on Wilmington, NC Real Estate!

Housing Relief Website Launch

MakingHomeAffordable.gov, the new web site launched March 19 by the Obama Administration, offers tools and calculators to help borrowers determine if they're eligible for loan modification and/or refinancing program.

Features include detailed information on the program, self assessment tools, a calculator to estimate reductions, resources to find free counseling, and a checklist of required documents.

If you are facing foreclosure you should check this site out.

If you have more questions please email me at JessicaRiffle@SeaCoastRealty.com

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Realtor Paycheck Part 2

Contact me at JessicaRiffle@SeaCoastRealty.com or 910-352-1043.

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Realtor Paycheck

There is no such thing as a "standard" commission. Each company may have varying rules, but there isn't one "golden" rule when it comes to realtor fees or commission. However, the old rule of thumb "you get what you pay for" generally applies to paying a Realtor as well. If I was a seller and interviewing Realtors I would run far from the one that agreed to cut or reduce commission without hesitation in order to get the listing. If a Realtor can't even negotiate on their own behalf for the one way they make a living and tell you why they deserve the commission they are asking for how well do you think they will negotiate on your behalf when you get an offer on your home? Which Realtor do you think will diligently go about the marketing, mailings, prospecting for your home that is for sale and which one will not worry if they dont send a postcard here and an email there....the one that can tell you exactly why they charge what they do or the one that has no problem cutting costs when they get too busy...That is the question sellers should be asking themselves.

Let me know what you think! Email me @ jessicariffle@seacoastrealty.com

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Curb Appeal

First impressions are everything right? So, then why do some sellers forget that this is often the most important impression on buyers and the impression that will ultimately influence the final opinion that they will have on the home that is for sale? When someone first pulls up to a home that is for sale, the outside of that property has to "sell them" before the inside will even be considered. Often we spend so much time and money on the inside that the outside if an afterthought. Don't let this be an obstacle you have to face when selling your home. Appeal to your sellers from the outside, in!

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Call me 910-352-1043 or email jessicariffle@seacoastrealty.com!

Roadmap to Rebound: Housing

Click here for more information on Wilmington NC Real Estate, Luxury Homes, and the search the ENTIRE wilmington MLS!

Federal Reserve Surprises Financial Markets

Here we go again, with the talking heads on financial news misinterpreting the impact of the Fed's actions on home loan rates.

Here's the scoop. What the Fed just announced is huge – they have committed to buy another $750B in Mortgage Backed Securities, and $300B in Treasuries.

But what does this mean and why do you care?

Their actions provide a demand for Mortgage Backed Securities, which should help keep a ceiling on home loan rates moving much higher in the foreseeable future. That's good news, for homebuyers who are seeing the bargains out there and understanding that now is the time to act. Good news for those who are ready to refinance too.

But an important distinction – this does not mean rates may move significantly lower. Depending on exactly which coupons the Fed purchases when they go shopping for Mortgage Backed Securities, their actions may keep a lid on rates, but not push them very much lower. And based on what they've been buying since the beginning of this year when they started their purchasing program – that is exactly how it has played out.

Present home loan rates are within inches of historic lows. This is great news for anyone looking to buy a home right now with list prices down and rates still low! NOW is the time to act and purchase that new home.

333 Scottsdale Drive ~ $239,900

Do you know a buyer for my new listing?

This absolutely charming 3 bedroom, 2 and a half bath home, plus bonus room or office...is nestled on an awesome lot just down the street from the Intracoastal Waterway! Both bedrooms on first floor have direct bathroom access and huge walk in closets which means you could have 2 master suites if needed. The galley kitchen with beautiful cabinets makes cooking a breeze and entertaining enjoyable. The oversized garage features 8 ft. doors to park and store your boat! New HVAC in Jan. 09, new roof, water softener, and light fixtures. An included Home Warranty will give you extra piece of mind.

Click here for more information on Wilmington NC Real Estate, Luxury Homes, and the search the ENTIRE wilmington MLS!

Remodel or Sell

Sometimes there is more than just "what color cabinets" to think about when remodeling your home. Is it best for you to remodel or purchase up? The cost of the remodel can sometimes be much higher than the actual value it adds to your home. Email me if you would like me to email you the cost vs. value list.

H.O.A. Madness

What happens when one individual decides to play by their own rules instead of their Home Owner Association Rules? What happens when that same person decides to quit paying those home owner dues?

Please call me or email me if you disagree with what I have to say. 910-352-1043 or jessicariffle@seacoastrealty.com

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Realtor vs. Realtor

To friend or not to friend...I say friend...for sure. Bring on the competition! It only makes me a better Realtor and better at what I do each and every day. This means I ultimately better serve my clients and helps me to strive to be the best. Or should I say...The Carolinas Finest!

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For Sale By Owner vs. Realtor

The 2008 NAR Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers reveals that among recent home sellers surveyed in August 2008, the pure For-Sale-By-Owner (FSBO) sales - those cases where the seller did not know the buyer - remain historically low at 7 percent. It had been closer to 10 percent during the housing boom years.

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Email me at jessicariffle@seacoastrealty.com or call me 910-352-1043.

Coldwell Banker Leads Innovation

Coldwell Banker became the first national real estate brand to develop a home search application for the revolutionary Microsoft Surface. It was unveiled at this week’s Coldwell Banker International Business Conference in San Antonio, TX. The Coldwell Banker Home Search application allows you to search for properties, browse neighborhoods, amenities and more through the touchscreen interface.

The first commercially available surface computing platform from Microsoft, Microsoft Surface turns an ordinary tabletop into a vibrant, interactive surface. Its 30-inch diagonal, table-like display provides effortless access to digital content through natural gestures, touch and physical objects placed on the display.

Last year Coldwell Banker became the first national real estate brand to put its listings on in-car GPS devices through an exclusive feed to Dash Navigation launch and launch a customized online platform for iPhoneTM and BlackBerry users.

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NC Foreclosures

Foreclosure numbers by NC city are below. Looks like Wilmington isn't as hard hit as other NC cities. That is a good sign of our stronger real estate market. There are many factors that keep Wilmington at the top of places to buy, invest, and live lists published year after year. The projected growth and industry are here. The University of North Carolina grows in size year after year. We have many people wanting to relocate to the coast at all different ages. This will keep the coastal area of Wilmington strong for many, many years to come. The information below is from realtytrac.com.

Raleigh - 611 foreclosures
Charlotte - 2,141 foreclosures
Greensboro - 730 foreclosures
Wilmington - 143 foreclosures

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Moving Money

When purchasing real estate getting ready for a closing make sure your funds are where they need to be AND that you are actually able to access them on the day you need to. This can and has delayed closings...even up to a week!

If you disagree with my opinions or have any questions, please call me @ 910-352-1043or email me @ jessicariffle@seacoastrealty.com.


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