Pleasure Island Blog, March 31-May 27

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March 31, Saturday – Island of Lights Fashion Show at American Legion (910)617-5945

April 6, Friday – American Legion FISH FRY (Carolina Beach) (910)458-4253

April 7, Saturday – Katie B. Hines Senior Center PANCAKE BREAKFAST (910)458-6609

April 14, Saturday – 16th Annual Chowder Cook Off at Carolina Beach Lake (910)458-8434

May 12, Saturyday – 1st Annual Pleasure Island Bluegrass by the River

May 25th, Friday – Fireworks by the Sea and Gazebo Music

May 27th, Sunday – Free Movies by the Lake

Activities – There are many activities to enjoy on the island; biking, surfing, paddle boarding and riding bikes are just a few of the many things you can enjoy while visiting the island.

Real Estate – Pleasure Island had 23 new listings last week, 5 under contract, and 10 closed sales.

Weather – The weather has been great! This weekend and next week will be mostly sunny with highs in the mid to upper 70’s and clear blue sky. It is a beautiful time of year to spend time at the beach. Come enjoy the sun and fun.

For more information about Pleasure Island go to www.pleasureislandnc.org

Mystery Agent March 28

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Intracoastal Realty Mystery Agent

Each week at our sales meeting we have a “Mystery Agent.” This gives us a chance to learn more about one of our colleagues that we may not have known otherwise.

  • Was born in Bethesda, MD.
  • Lived in Panama for 2 years.
  • Is an Eagle Scout.
  • Graduated from Appalachian State University.
  • Once hitchhiked to New Orleans while in college to go to Mardis Gras.
  • Played in a pick-up basketball game against Michael Jordan.
  • Spent 6 months at the National Institute of Health being treated for Cancer.
  • Worked in Human Resources for almost 25 years.
  • Favorite TV show is American Idol.
  • Is the only adult in the US that has not been to Disney World (and actually wants to go)

Can you guess who this Wilmington Real Estate Agent is?

Brant Barnwell Intracoastal Realty

The Story Behind The Intracoastal Logo

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Intracoastal Realty has built its reputation, image, and success on what the company logo represents: becoming and remaining the market leader in the marketing and sales of exceptional properties in the waterfront communities of Wilmington and the surrounding coastal areas.

The logo has become independently recognizable as the symbol of leadership in the real estate community. The Intracoastal logo depicts the golden sands of our beaches, the brilliant blue skies, and the powerful ocean. Perched above the wave in the logo is the sun (or is it the moon?!), which together resembles an “i” for Intracoastal. In 2011, the company’s mantra, “Experience the Exceptional,” was added to the logo to emphasize what the company prides itself on — delivering an exceptional real estate experience to the consumer.

Intracoastal Realty is, in fact, the market leader in high-end properties along the water, including the ocean, river, and Intracoastal Waterway. This logo is synonymous with being the leader in area real estate.

Open House Etiquette

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Intracoastal Realty Open-House-Sign

Visiting open houses is a great way to get a feel for an area if you’re in the market for a home. This time of year is a very busy time for open houses. Following these simple Rules of Open House Etiquette will help you get the most out of your open house visit. Remember that you are a guest in someone else’s home, so common rules of decency apply.

Remove shoes at the door
Oftentimes an open house hosts will place a big basket by the front door to hold visitors’ shoes. Occasionally stretchy disposable shoe covers are provided for open house guests. The point is to preserve the cleanliness of the property. This is also a good reminder to wear clean, matching socks without holes!

Children and Strollers
Strollers can easily bump furniture and interior finishes as well as roll in dirt and germs. Park the buggy outside, or stow it in the car while you tour the home. And if you bring children along, make keep them in sight. Open guests are liable for any breakages or damages that were caused during their visit.

Leave pets at home
If you cannot help but bring your pet along, leave him in the car while you view homes, and don’t leave any evidence of his presence in a homeowner’s yard.

Sign in when you arrive
As a rule, the open house host will have a guest register or clipboard list for visitors to sign upon entry. Even nosy neighbors must sign in. This is common courtesy and a security measure

Save food or drinks for later.
Please don’t bring these in the open house! If refreshments are provided, stay in the kitchen or area where this occurs, rather than moving through the entire home with plates or cups in hand.

Don’t take photos without permission
Open house guests must respect the privacy of the homeowner. Don’t start taking pictures or video of the property, without first asking the host for permission. Typically a printed brochure is available and has property photos. If you have to take a photograph of any special features just ask the open house host first.

Ask before trying out bathrooms
It’s best to deal with this prior to the open house. But, in an emergency, politely ask the hosting agent for permission to use the bathroom before using it. Be as quick and as discreet as possible and leave the area as clean as you found it.

Avoid monopolizing the host
The host may be welcoming several visitors at once. Sometimes it may be hard to find all the answers you need while touring a crowded home. This is when a brochure and agent’s phone number or email address comes in handy to contact them later.

Withhold negative comments If you can’t say something nice…wait until you leave to say it! Be courteous and don’t offer criticisms about the home.

Pleasure Island Blog March 23-25th

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March 23-24, Friday & Saturday – Suncoast Cruiser “Back To The Beach” Car Show
(910)707-0060

March 24, Saturday – 16th Annual Budweiser Wing Fling at the Carolina Beach Boardwalk (910)617-9164

March 31, Saturday – Island of Lights Fashion Show at American Legion (910)617-5945

April 6, Friday – American Legion FISH FRY (Carolina Beach) (910)458-4253

April 7, Saturday – Katie B. Hines Senior Center PANCAKE BREAKFAST (910)458-6609

April 14, Saturday – 16th Annual Chowder Cook Off at Carolina Beach Lake (910)458-8434

Activities – There are many activities to enjoy on the island; biking, surfing, paddle boarding and riding bikes are just a few of the many things you can enjoy while visiting the island.

Real Estate – Pleasure Island had 24 new listings last week, 11 under contract, and 5 closed sales.

Weather – The weather has been great! This weekend and next week will be mostly sunny with highs in the upper 60’s and low 70’s. It is a beautiful time of year to spend time at the beach.

For more information about Pleasure Island go to www.pleasureislandnc.org

Under-Contract Volume

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Under_Contract_Volume_3-2012

Look at this volume increase and percentage! We are seeing a major increase in showings and under-contract volume for properties $300,000 and above in 2012.

Our average closed sold price for 2012 is $309,000
Our average pending sale in 2012 is $470,000

Mystery Agent March 20

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Intracoastal Realty Mystery Agent

Each week at our sales meeting we have a “Mystery Agent.” This gives us a chance to learn more about one of our colleagues that we may not have known otherwise.

•Has lived in 6 states and owned properties in 4.
•Has visited 31 states and 17 countries.
•Is a Harley motorcycle rider.
•Is an avid boater – and has been known to catch a 4-6 inch fish occasionally.
•Favorite cocktails are dirty vodka martini and manhattan.
•Belongs to the British Motor Club of the Cape Fear.
•Is a Wine enthusiast and enjoys visiting wineries whenever possible.
•Enjoys an occasional cigar with good company.
•Speaks 6 languages.
•Before becoming a Realtor, worked as floral designer, a travel agent and owned a retail store in Wilmington.

Can you guess who this Wilmington Real Estate Agent is? Here is the link that unveils our mystery agent.

Family Friendly Easter Events

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It’s spring and the weather sure tells us it is! Easter weekend is fast approaching and there are lots of family friendly activities around town. These events are perfect for families who live in town or are coming for a spring vacation. Don’tget left out, pre-registration is required for some of these activities.

 

March 31 & April 6 & 7: ALLIGATOR EGG HUNT. 10am & 1pm. See a live baby alligator and learn about these fascinating animals. Next, create an alligator egg basket and search for candy-filled “alligator eggs.” Recommended for ages 3-10; must be accompanied by an adult. Admission charge for kids and adults. Pre-registration required (by March 28 & April 4). NC Aquarium at Fort Fisher, Kure Beach; 910-458-7468 

 

April 5: SPRING EGG-VENTURE AT HALYBURTON PARK. 1pm–4pm. Join the ‘eggcitement’ at Halyburton Park. Programs include Animal Eggs & Nests, Egglympics, Storytime, and Spring Nature Hike. Egg hunts for children ages 3-5, 6-7 and 8-10 will take place at 1:30, 2:30, and 3:30. Space is limited; pre-registration required. Admission charge.  Halyburton Park, 4099 S. 17th St., Wilmington.  910-341-0075  

April 6-7: BUGS & BUTTERFLIES SPRING EVENT. 9am-12noon. Bug egg hunt, face-painting, bee and butterfly balloon animals, spring outdoor games, flower-planting, and egg-citing art activities. Museum admission charge includes event. Children’s Museum of Wilmington.

 

April 6-7: SOUTHPORT SPRING FESTIVAL.  10am until 5pm on Friday and 10am until 4pm on Saturday. Come out and welcome spring in style at the Southport Spring Festival, a tradition for more than 25 years. This festival features a wide variety of activities such as musical entertainment, handmade arts and crafts, children’s activities, azaleas and other plants for sale, and food vendors. Included is a Chili Cook-off and a 5K Run/Walk. No admission fees but a small charge for some kid’s activities and participation in the 5k run/walk.  Franklin Square Park E. West Street, Southport; 910/454-9608 .

 

April 6: EASTER EGG HUNT & CARNIVAL AT BATTLESHIP PARK. 10am-2pm. Kids ages 2-9 are invited to join Buddy the Battleship Bunny for continuous egg hunts, games, inflatable bounce house, pony rides, petting zoo, and more. Admission charge; pre-registration required. Battleship Park, Wilmington; 910-251-5797.

 

April 6-9: EASTER ‘BUNNY’- DRAWN CARRIAGE TOURS. 10am-10pm, weather permitting.Experience the beauty of spring in historic Wilmington via a ‘Bunny’ horse-drawn carriage or trolley. Treats for kids. Admission charge. Market & Water Streets, Downtown Wilmington; 910-251-8889.

April 6-8: BALD HEAD ISLAND EASTER CELEBRATIONS. Live entertainment, family picnic, egg hunt, culminates with Shoals Club Recreation Egg Hunt Bald Head Island, Admission/Fees: Fee Charged. Contact: Bald Head Island Limited Rental Relations 1-800-432-RENT.

April 7: OAK ISLAND ANNUAL EATER EGG HUNT. Annual Oak Island Egg Hunt for ages 10 and under-divided into the following age groups: 3 & under; 4-6, and 7-10. The hunt begins promptly at 10am. Admission/Fees: Free; Bill Smith Park Fish Factory Road, Oak Island, NC; 910-278-5518.

 

April 8: MASONBORO ISLAND EASTER EGG HUNT.  11am; 2pm & 4:30pm. Cruise to Masonboro Island, one of the largest marine sanctuary islands in Southeast NC, and experience a unique Easter boat trip & egg hunt. Adults must accompany children. Admission charge; advance reservations. Wrightsville Beach Scenic Tours departs across from Blockade Runner Resort, 275 Waynick Blvd., Wrightsville Beach. 910-200-4002.

Mystery Agent March 15

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Intracoastal Realty Mystery Agent

Each week at our sales meeting we have a “Mystery Agent.” This gives us a chance to learn more about one of our colleagues that we may not have known otherwise.

 

  • Grew up in western Pennsylvania and lived in the same house until married.
  • Has visited Frank Lloyd Wright’s “Falling Water” home three times.
  • Favorite subjects in school were Art, Literature and Writing.
  • Licensed cosmetologist since the age of 15.
  • Traveled in Europe, favorite destination Spain, speaks Spanish and a little French.
  • Became a Realtor in 2006.
  • Hobbies include: Reading on my Nook, Ballroom dancing, and Quilting which was introduced by Great Aunt.
  • Ordained Minister since 1979 and learned sign language in order to teach Bible studies to the deaf.
  • Owns a Siamese Cat named Timmy “Boo Boo”.
  • Is a custom Seamstress – once created a red mermaid style bridal gown with a chapel length train for a client celebrating her 6th marriage

Can you guess who this Wilmington Real Estate Agent is? Here is the link that unveils our mystery agent.