Joe Rieker: Who Needs a Buyers Agent

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Educating clients is our job and that includes explaining why they need us when buying a home.  In today’s world of technology and information, buyers have more resources than ever and are very excited about buying a home. Yet, so many call or go directly to a listing agent without realizing that the listing agent legally represents the seller, period. The listing agent is interested in getting the best price and terms for the seller and will keep all information about the seller confidential. Not so with the buyer. Any information given to a listing agent can and will be used against a buyer. A buyers agent is your negotiator and advocate and legally works for you, the buyer. A buyers agent will help discover all material facts about a property and inform the buyer. Best of all, the buyers agent is usually paid by the seller, even in For Sale By Owner properties. There is no good reason not to utilize a buyers agent.

A buyers agent will negotiate for the seller from the first offer through the inspection and appraisal right to the closing. Things can and do go wrong and a good buyers agent is often the calm mediator who keeps the deal moving when things get difficult or helps a buyer safely terminate an offer if necessary. A buyers agent knows to expect the unexpected.

Information must be interpreted with knowledge and experience, which is another reason a buyer’s agent is so important. Our clients may have bought and sold a house or two in the past, even FSBO, but they don’t realize their past experience may have little or nothing to do with our market or the property at hand. The most important thing is to get our clients the property they want and safely get the deal closed with the best price and terms for the buyer; all this without letting superfluous issues interfere. This can happen when a relative is a real estate agent in another state telling the buyer they’ve never put earnest money down and offers should start at 80% or a relocation buyer telling us that foreclosures are selling at 50% back home so they should here also.

In summary, a buyers agent is a buyers representative paid by the seller. A buyers agent protects a buyer from the pitfalls of the home buying process. Appreciation of the buyers agent grows as the process plays out. Think of going car shopping with a mechanic.

Article by:

Rieker, JoeJoe Rieker
Broker/REALTOR with Intracoastal Realty
910-442-9688
jrieker@intracoastalrealty.com

Area Events for April – June 2014

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Check out the Area Events near you for the months of April – June!

4/3: Wine, Women & Shoes, Wilmington

4/3: Jazz at the CAM, Wilmington

4/4: 6th Semi-Annual Golf Tournament, Leland

4/4: Wilmington Fashion Weekend, Wilmington

4/5: Island of Lights Fashion Show, Carolina Beach

4/5: Star Party, Carolina Beach

4/5: 7th Annual Walk a Mile in Her Shoes, Wilmington

4/5: Port City Dodgeball Shootout, Wilmington

4/9: Paint & Party, Ocean Isle Beach

4/9-13: 66th Annual Azalea Festival, Wilmington

4/10-13: Cole Brothers Circus, Wilmington

4/11-13: Annual Juried Art Show & Sale, Wilmington

4/11-13: Azalea Festival Street Fair, Wilmington

4/12: Oak Island Lighthouse Run/Walk, Oak Island

4/12: 18th Annual Chowder Cook Off, Carolina Beach

4/12: Azalea Festival Parade, Wilmington

4/12: Girls on the Run and STRIDE 5K, Ocean Isle Beach

4/12: 3rd Annual Coastal Cluck Coop Tour, Wilmington

4/12-13: Boxing Tournament, Wilmington

4/12-13: Historic Home Tour, Wilmington

4/17: Spring Eggventure, Wilmington

4/18: Easter Egg Hunt Carnival, Wilmington

4/18: 10th Annual Rims on the River, Wilmington

4/19: Easter Egg Hunt, Wrightsville Beach

4/19: Family Day @ Museum of Coastal Carolina, Ocean Isle Beach

4/19: Epic Day at GLA, Wilmington

4/23-27: Carolina Cup, Wrightsville Beach

4/26: Hops of Spring Beer Festival, Surf City

4/26: 7th Annual Kure Street Festival, Kure Beach

4/26-28: Days at the Docks, Holden Beach

5/2: Music on the Town Concert Series, Wilmington

5/2: Summer Concert Series Kickoff, Wilmington

5/2: Wilmington Wine & Food Festival, Wilmington

5/3: Annual Work on Wilmington, Wilmington

5/3: Southport-Oak Island Golf Classic, Oak Island

5/3: Annual Blooming for a Cause Charity Gala, Ocean Isle Beach

5/9: Music on the Town Concert, Wilmington

5/9-17: Far Out Shoot Out, Ocean Isle Beach

5/10: Riverfront Farmers’ Market, Wilmington

5/16: Kayak & SUP Yoga Workshop, Wrightsville Beach

5/16: Music on the Town Concert, Wilmington

5/16: Airlie Gardens Summer Concert Series, Wilmington

5/17: Carolina Beach Street Arts Festival, Carolina Beach

5/17: Carolina Beach Farmer’ Market, Carolina Beach

5/17-18: Annual Blue Crab Festival, Ocean Isle Beach

5/18: Run Sunset Beach, Sunset Beach

5/23: Music on the Town Concert, Wilmington

5/23: Concerts on the Coast, Ocean Isle Beach

5/24: Annual Orange Street ArtsFest, Wilmington

5/25: Movie at the Lake, Carolina Beach

5/30: Music on the Town Concert, Wilmington

5/30: Concerts on the Coast, Ocean Isle Beach

5/30-31: Fisherman’s Post Inshore Challenge, Ocean Isle Beach

6/6: Concerts on the Coast, Ocean Isle Beach

6/8: Boogie in the Park, Kure Beach

6/8: Movie by the Lake, Carolina Beach

6/8: 6th Annual Port City Music Festival, Wilmington

6/13: Kure Beach Summer Concert Series, Kure Beach

6/13: Concerts on the Coast, Ocean Isle Beach

6/13: Music on the Town Concert, Wilmington

6/14: Carolina Beach Farmers’ Market, Carolina Beach

6/15: Movie at the Lake, Carolina Beach

6/15: Boogie in the Park, Kure Beach

6/20: Music on the Town Concert, Wilmington

6/20: Concerts on the Coast, Ocean Isle Beach

6/20: Airlie Gardens Summer Concert Series, Wilmington

6/20-22: Jolly Mon King Classic, Ocean Isle Beach

6/27: Kure Beach Summer Concert Series, Kure Beach

6/27: Concerts on the Coast, Ocean Isle Beach

6/27: Music on the Town Concert, Wilmington

6/28: Carolina Beach Farmers’ Market, Carolina Beach

6/28: NC 4th of July Festival Freedom Run, Southport

6/28-7/4: NC Fourth of July Festival, Southport

6/29: Boogie in the Park, Kure Beach

6/29: Movie at the Lake, Carolina Beach

Ashley Garner: 2014 Off to a Good Start

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Spring is near!  As of the writing of this article we have two full months of 2014 under our belt and the numbers say that the real estate market is continuing to perform well on a steady rebound from the “bursting of the bubble.” As is the case with any subject that is heavily measured by performance numbers there are so many ways to report and interpret the data.  In this short article I will give you the local facts and then my opinion regarding those facts. Notice I said I will give you the “local” facts, this is important. Real estate is very local, in some cases local means the county or the city and other cases it means specific streets. Keep that in mind as you will naturally want to read this data then apply the facts to your own personal home or property. If you want a true value of your specific property you will need to drill down even further than the level of statistics I am quoting here. You will attain this level of detail by utilizing the services of a professional real estate broker/REALTOR and/or a real estate appraiser, who will prepare for you a customized Comparative Market Analysis (CMA). Now for the facts. Note these numbers represent all single family homes/condos/town houses in New Hanover County, North Carolina.

Units Sold

The number of properties sold (units) in February 2014 was 419 which is UP 25% over January 2014 and equal to the number sold in February 2013 (same month last year). This is good news because it shows a normal healthy trend of increasing sales as the winter season heads towards spring and summer – we would expect to see this. It also means that the market is performing at the same level as last year, which was a good year!

Average Sold Price

$222,579.00 is the average sold price for February 2014. This is UP 2.0% from January 2014 and UP 2.3% from February 2013. This is also good news. Please understand, however, that this is an AVERAGE and averages can be affected by selling more homes priced higher than the average versus homes lower than the average. So don’t automatically think that this means the value of your particular home is up by 2.0%…maybe it is or maybe it is up more than that or possibly not up that much. This is where it is very important to consult a professional to do an analysis of your home’s specific location and condition to determine actual market value.

Listing Inventory

The number of single family properties actively for sale on the market as of March 1, 2014 was 3778 which is up 18 UNITS from January 2014 and up 8.1% from the same time last year. We would expect to see an increase in properties for sale as we enter the spring market. The increase from last year seems to indicate that more owners are encouraged by the health of the market and are ready to sell their home and in some cases by another one. The other thing to note is that these increases are slight – which is good; we do not want a flood of inventory because that would negatively affect the supply and demand relationship thus causing downward pressure on values.

Average List Price

$353,640.00 is the average list price – in other words the “asking price”. This is up by $10,507.00 over January 2014. This, too, is to be expected this time of year. I always think it is interesting to notice the difference between the average sales price ($222,579.00) and the average sold price ($353,640.00). This obviously means that many of the higher priced homes don’t sell as frequently as the lower priced homes. It also could, and probably does, indicate that many of the homes for sale on the market are overpriced.  A note to sellers…its either time or money, like everything else in life…if you want a faster sale then usually it means lowering your asking price accordingly.

Days on Market

The average time it takes a home to sell is 135 days. This is up by 11 days from January 2014. We would rather see this one go down instead of up but I am not concerned that this is a trend. As long as the market does not get flooded with inventory we should see this number go down as we move into spring.

In summary, we have sales UP and average sold price UP. These two are the main bright spots. The seasonal trend of increased number of homes for sale and asking price for those houses is to be expected and is normal.

Article by:
Ashley Garner
Broker/REALTOR at Intracoastal Realty
agarner@intracoastalrealty.com
Direct: 910-409-0861

 

Featured Listing Friday: 153 Edgewater Lane

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This week’s Featured Listing Friday takes us to a gracious Southern Colonial home with a charming history dating to the 1800s perched on a high 1 acre lot overlooking the Intracoastal Waterway and Wrightsville Beach.  Located at 153 Edgewater Lane, this listing from Cindy Southerland features 5466 heated square feet, 4 bedrooms, 3 full baths, 1 half bath with a chef’s kitchen and an eat-in breakfast area, English pub bar, and much, much more. This Impeccably maintained home with fine gardens has been featured on the NC Azalea Festival Garden Tour. Children and adults alike will marvel at the tree house built among one of many majestic oaks.

Q: What distinctive features set this home apart?

A: Gracious Southern porches, 12 foot ceilings Colonial molding, 6 fireplaces, moss covered Live Oaks

Q: Can you describe the architectural style of the home?

A: Southern Plantation

Q: What are the advantages of the location and neighborhood?

A: Quiet setting with majestic Live Oaks yet walking distance to waterfront fine dining

Q: Does the community have any amenities we should know about?

A: Community dock. House features 45 foot boat slip in no wake zone

Q: What makes the price of this home so great?

A: 5400+ heated square feet on One acre of land with sweeping water views and deeded boat slip. Outdoor entertaining areas with gunite pool, outdoor kitchen and fireplace, gardens featured on NC Azalea Festival

Q: Can you tell us a fun fact about this home?

A: Land originally purchased by Captain Charles D Ellis a Wilmington merchant and yachtsman. Famous author Boyden Sparkes was reported to have lived here

Q: Is there anything else you’d like to tell us about the home?

A: Tree house has spiral staircase looks like straight out of fairy tale book

Click here for more information on this listing.

Vanessa Rieker: Why Now is the Time to Sell

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Most homeowners are still waiting until the spring time to either get their houses back on the market or list them for the first time.  However, the consequences of waiting could be drastic. Now is the time to sell. If sellers wait, they will have more competition, risk losing a multiple-offer situation that can occur with the influx of buyers, and risk not getting the highest price for their property.

Look at the market right now. In a regular scenario, neither a buyers market or a sellers market, 5 to 6 months of inventory is the norm.  Right now, in several neighborhoods of Wilmington, we have less than 3 months of inventory. That is seller’s market territory. In this scenario, buyers that are looking are eager to get under contract and move in the next month or two are willing to pay closer to asking price if not full price. Why? Because the competition is very low and they have less to choose from, even though everybody knows that houses sell more in the Spring and Summer time — before school starts. The buyers are approved now, and they don’t want to risk the opportunity to get into the neighborhood they want and in the home of their dreams. They don’t want to miss this window of opportunity of getting the rates their lenders are offering. They don’t want to wait for what else comes on the market, because experts are telling them that prices are just going to go up. They also are paying attention to the market and have noticed that renting is actually more expensive than owning, they are not gaining equity by renting,  rent prices are going up, and they are just helping someone else pay their mortgage.

If they are selling now, and have the chance of getting more for their property TODAY, they also have the BIG opportunity to gain on the other side of the transaction. They WILL buy their next home in a lower price, so in other words they will break even or even better, and they will gain more equity faster.

Some homeowners will object also because their yards do not look as pretty as they will in the Spring. Okay, who is buying just the yard?! Chances are there is the one buyer who will, BUT most likely everybody else that looks at their property is buying the HOUSE.

Rainy days are not great to show either, but BUYERS will see it as an opportunity to be able to see any concerns on water leakage, standing water on the yard, drainage in the streets, and so forth.

Remember those buyers today are the ones who missed their chances of getting in their dream home last year; buyers today might be the ones who were waiting for their finances to be in place before coming out to buy.  They are ready, they are informed, and they don’t want to compete with the Spring buyers either.

TODAY is the right time to sell!

Rieker, VanessaVanessa Rieker
Broker/REALTOR at Intracoastal Realty
vrieker@intracoastalrealty.com
Direct: 910-795-6193

Featured Listing Friday: 1063 Ocean Ridge Drive

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Join us for a tour of 1063 Ocean Ridge Drive listed by Vance Young for this week’s Featured Listing Friday.  In the prestigious gated community of Landfall, this beautifully constructed home with mahogany siding is nothing short of amazing.

Located on a quiet cul-de-sac, this elegant island style residence is sited on a high, wooded bluff with 300 feet of Intracoastal frontage. Built by master craftsman, Fred Murray, the residence has mahogany siding, Vermont slate roof, custom appointments and heavy molding throughout. Boasting four bedrooms (with a first floor master), this home has 4 full baths and 2 half baths with an additional bonus room upstairs. Upstairs balconies, blue stone terraces provide the perfect venue for entertaining or just enjoying living on the water.

For more information on this listing, click here.

Congratulation To Our Top Producers for February 2014

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Congratulation To Our Top Producers for February 2014Intracoastal Realty Announces Top Agents and Producers Club

Intracoastal Realty recently announced their top performers for the month of February. Keith Beatty won Closed Volume Team of the Month with $3.4M in sales and Nicole Valentine won Closed Volume Agent of the Month with $2.8M in sales.  Vance Young won Listing Team of the Month with $20M in new listings and Lee Crouch won Listing Agent of the Month with $4M in new listings.  Keith Beatty won Under Contract Volume Team of the Month with $7.5M in contracts and Lee Crouch won Under Contract Volume Agent of the Month with $2.4M in contracts.

Wilmington – Lumina Station Office: Top selling, under contract, and listing team was Keith Beatty. Top selling and under contract agent was Rainelle Mishoe.  Top listing agent was Robbie Robinson.

Wrightsville Beach Office: Top selling, under contract, and listing team Vance Young.  Top selling agent was Mark Bodford.  Top listing agent and under contract agent was Lee Crouch.

Carolina Beach Office: Top selling agent was Joyce Barnwell. Top listing agent was Alicia Devereaux. Top under contract agent was Karen Berry.

Oak Island Office: Top selling agent and listing agent was Cathy Riddle.  Top under contract agent was Renee Yost.

Ocean Isle Beach Office: Top listing agent was Johnny Gaddy.  Top under contract agent was Edwina St. Pierre.  Top selling agent was Linda Register.

New Homes & General Brokerage: Top listing and under contract team was Kraig Marquis.  Top selling agent was Nicole Valentine. Top listing agent was Rodney Harris.

Joining the Multi-Million Dollar Club with at least $3M in closed volume through February 2014 is: Keith Beatty, Carla Lewis, Rainelle Mishoe, and Nicole Valentine.

Area Events for March 2014

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Area Events for March 2014

Nano Exhibit

Nov. 21-Mar. 10
Nano is a mini, interactive exhibition that engages family audiences in nanoscale science, engineering, and technology. Hands-on interactives present the basics of nanoscience and engineering, introduce some real-world applications, and explore the societal and ethical implications of this new technology. Admission charge.  (910)798-4350;  Cape Fear Museum
814 Market St, Wilmington.  www.capefearmuseum.com/index.php?flag=exhibit_nano

Requiem in Glass: An Installation by Harry Taylor
Feb. 8-Jun. 1
Mathew Brady is considered to be the father of photojournalism and was responsible for most of the photographic documentation of the American Civil War. When the war was over, Brady was forced to sell most of his glass plate negatives to settle his debts. These glass negatives then were recycled to build greenhouses, but as the years went by, the sun’s rays burned the imagery from the glass and the images were lost. In this installation, Wilmington photographer Harry Taylor re-imagines these fabled greenhouses, inspired by how these structures may have appeared during Reconstruction. Admission charge. (910)395-5999; Cameron Art Museum, 3201 S 17th St, Wilmington. www.cameronartmuseum.org/index.php?c=current

Bruce Barclay Cameron Duck Decoy Collection
Feb. 8-Jun. 1
This exhibition highlights a selection of Mr. Cameron’s most noted decoys. Artisans included are A. Elmer Crowell from Cape Cod, MA; Joseph Lincoln from Accord, MA; Hucks Caines from Georgetown, SC; the Ward Brothers, Lemuel and Stephen from Crisfield, MD; Mitchell Fulcher of Stacy, NC; and Ned Burgess of Duck, NC. Admission charge.  (910)395-5999;  Cameron Art Museum, 3201 S 17th St, Wilmington.

www.cameronartmuseum.org/index.php?c=current

Charlie Murphy’s Fond Farewell
Feb. 21-Mar. 15
Doors open at 6pm, show starts at 7pm. With St. Patty’s around the corner, it’s time for a good old-fashioned Irish Wake! “Charlie Murphy’s Fond Farewell” is an uproarious comedy sprinkled with music, games and delicious Irish-themed cuisine. You and your friends will look forward to raising a glass to dear Charlie as his friends bid him one last “Slainte!”  Tickets required. (910)399-3669; TheatreNOW, 19 S 10th St, Wilmington.  www.theatrewilmington.com/

Romantic Comedy
Feb. 27-Mar. 2
Thurs-Sat. 8pm and Sun. 3pm. Arrogant, self-centered and sharp-tongued Jason Carmichael is facing two monumental events: he is about the marry a society belle and his collaborator is retiring. Enter Phoebe Craddock, Vermont school teacher and budding playwright. His wife divorces him to go into politics and Phoebe, her love for Jason unrequited, marries a breezy journalist and moves to Paris. Jason goes into professional, financial and physical decline as a newly chic Phoebe returns, solo and successful, igniting the long delayed romance between them. Tickets required. (910)367-5237; Cape Fear Playhouse, 613 Castle St, Wilmington.  www.bigdawgproductions.org/2014-season.html

Fraktured Faery Tales For A Mid-Winter’s Eve IV

Feb. 27-Mar. 2

Thurs. 7:30pm, Fri. 8pm, Sat. 3 & 8pm and Sun. 3pm. What happens when you take classic fairy tales, add wacky elements and throw in a little imagination and creativity? The answer “Fraktured Faery Tales For A Mid-Winter’s Eve IV”. Bring the family and anyone with a funny bone to enjoy some music, dancing, comedy and definitely a moral to each lovely story. Admission charge. (910)632-2241; Thalian Hall, 310 Chestnut St, Wilmington.  www.thalianhall.org/events#

EVITA!
Feb. 28-Mar. 2
Thurs-Sat. 8pm and Sun. 3pm.This hit musical is based on the life of Evita Duarte, a B-picture Argentinian actress who eventually became the wife of Argentinian president Juan Peron, and the most beloved and hated woman in Argentina. Tickets required. (910)632-2241; Thalian Hall, 310 Chestnut St, Wilmington. www.thalianhall.org/thalian-hall/events?mon=2014-02

Cape Fear Beer Fest
Mar. 1
1pm. The Cape Fear Beer Festival will offer unlimited tasting of top quality beers made by the world’s most enthusiastic and enterprising brew masters. Served right here in North Carolina, tasting, sampling and education is at the core of the CFBF experience. Responsible and educated consumption and admiration for the art of brewing is what the Cape Fear Beer Festival is all about. Admission charge. (910)251-5101; Wilmington Convention Center, 515 Nutt St, Wilmington. www.capefearbeerfest.com/

Susan G. Komen Race For The Cure
Mar. 1
7am. This event will mark the 2nd Annual Wilmington Race for the Cure and will be held in beautiful downtown Wilmington. The starting point for the race will be in the parking lot on the corner of 2nd and Market Streets. You may choose to cheer on competitors, run or walk the timed 5K or even take part in the 1 mile walk. Register today as time is running out! Free for spectators. (877)506-7501; 2nd & Market Sts, Downtown Wilmington.  www.nctc.info-komen.org/site/TR/RacefortheCure/DUR_NCTriangleAffiliate?fr_id=4015&pg=entry

Whale of a Weekend
Mar. 1-2
9am-5pm. Dive into the wonderful world of whales and dolphins through hands-on education stations. Explore a humpback whale’s family tree. Try out a blubber glove. Solve a mystery as a dolphin detective and much more! In addition, marine mammal experts from around the state share their knowledge and experience. Admission charge. (910)458-8257; NC Aquarium at Fort Fisher, 900 Loggerhead Rd, Kure Beach.  www.ncaquariums.com/fort-fisher

Flashback: Community Life Through the Lens of Mack Munn
Mar. 6
6:30pm. This exhibit features the photography of Mack Munn, a traveling salesman who kept his camera close by as he moved through rural Southeastern NC from the 1940s, 50s, and 60s. The images are principally of the African American communities of Sandyfield, Riegelwood, and East Arcadia. This wonderful exhibit is full of his candid photographs showing people working, praying, traveling, and community building. Donation requested, $5. (910)251-3700; Bellamy Mansion Museum, 503 Market St, Wilmington. www.bellamymansion.org/calendar.html

Jazz at the CAM with Lee Venters and Vermillion Sands
Mar. 6
6:30-8pm. Tonight enjoy Contemporary jazz sounds with Lee Venters and Vermillion Sands featuring eclectic jazz influences from Brazil and the Caribbean, original compositions, jazz and Latin classics with Lee Venters on drums, Teddy Burgh on flute, Kevin Kolb on keyboard, and Taylor Lee on bass. Admission charge. (910)395-5999; Weyerhaeuser Reception Hall, Cameron Art Museum, 3201 S 17th St, Wilmington.  www.cameronartmuseum.org/index.php?c=jazz

New York Voices: 25 Anniversary
Mar. 8
7pm. The Grammy winning vocal jazz quartet celebrates 25 years of brilliance with a stunning show right here in Wilmington! Like Lambert, Hendricks & Ross, and Manhattan Transfer, New York Voices is heralded among the stellar vocal groups on the globe infusing jazz, brazilian, R&B, big band, classical and pop arrangements with unequaled musical brilliance. Tickets required. (910)632-2241; Thalian Hall, 310 Chestnut St, Wilmington. www.thalianhall.org/thalian-hall/events?mon=2014-03

Slave Voices in North Carolina
Mar. 13
6:30pm. Dr. Lucinda MacKethan, retired alumni and professor of NC State, presents the personal narratives, letters, poetry and interviews of NC Slaves and discusses how these works fill in a lost or often distorted picture of slavery in our state before the Civil War. Narratives, poetry and interviews give a realistic picture of how NC slaves lived, worked, created families, worshipped and even escaped from bondage. Donation requested, $5. (910)251-3700; Bellamy Mansion, 503 Market St, Wilmington.www.bellamymansion.org/calendar.html

North Carolina Black Film Festival
Mar. 13-16
The 13th at 6pm, 15th at 10am and 16th at 3pm. The four day juried and invitational festival of independent motion pictures by African-American filmmakers will showcase features, shorts, animation, and documentary films you won’t want to miss! Admission charge to some screenings. (910)612-7832; Hannah Block Historic USO/Community Arts Center, 120 S Second St, Wilmington and (910)395-5999; Cameron Art Museum, 3201 S 17th St, Wilmington. www.blackartsalliance.org/home_4.html

Cape Fear Wildlife Expo
Mar. 14-16
Friday 9am-7pm, Saturday 9am-7pm and Sunday 10am-5pm. Outdoor enthusiasts will get the chance to enjoy three days of hunting and fishing exhibitors, wildlife art displays, decoys, boats and accessories, truck and ATV displays, Hunter Safety Certification Class, fly fishing demos, and fun for the entire family. Admission charge. (919)552-9449; Wilmington Convention Center, 10 Convention Center Dr, Wilmington.  www.capefearwildlifeexpo.com/Expo.htm

The Celtic Tenors
Mar. 14
8pm. With a polished international reputation and just over a million album sales, The Celtic Tenors are winning fans with their truly unique style. The skill, range and ability of world-class tenors combined with the personality and appeal of genuine performers will leave you wishing for more. Admission charge. (910)632-2241; Thalian Hall, 310 Chestnut St, Wilmington. www.thalianhall.org/thalian-hall/events?mon=2014-03

Battleship Power Plant
Mar.15
12pm-5:30pm. Learn in detail about the ship’s eight Babcock & Wilcox boilers, four sets of General Electric turbines and reduction gears, steam and diesel powered service turbo generators, along with electrical distribution, water distillation, and steering mechanisms. NC naval steam engine expert Gene Oakley demonstrates his working models of historic naval steam engines to place the Battleship’s engines in perspective. Ages (16 & up) and physical restrictions apply. Admission charge. (910)251-5797; Battleship NORTH CAROLINA, #1 Battleship Rd, Wilmington. www.battleshipnc.com/Events/EventCalendar

Symphony POPS! “Broadway Then & Now”
Mar.15
8pm. Broadway veterans Amy and Ben Wright delight the audience with sparkling selections from Broadway’s songbook. Amy made her debut in 1996 in the Tony-nominated Rodger and Hammerstein musical “State Fair” and can be heard on the original cast album. Ben originated the role of “Jack” in Stephen Sondheim and James Lapin’s Tony and Grammy Award winning musical “Into the Woods.” Admission charge. (910)962-3500; Kenan Auditorium (UNCW), 601 S College Rd, Wilmington. www.wilmingtonsymphony.org/singletickets.html

10th Annual Steve Haydu St. Patricks Lo-Tide Run
Mar.15
7am registration and 8:30am start. This Flat PR course with USTAF Certification is in its tenth year and is a tribute to two truly amazing men whose paths crossed in the one and only, Carolina Beach. In honor of those men, the proceeds from the event will be given to one or more cancer patients and their family. Participants can choose from the 10k run or the 5k run/walk followed by an award ceremony and after party at The Lazy Pirate at 11:00 am. For more information or to register for the race please see the website. Free for spectators. (910)368-9523; Carolina Beach Boardwalk Gazebo, 100 Cape Fear Blvd, Carolina Beach.  www.lotiderun.org

St. Patrick’s Day Parade & Festival
Mar. 15
11am. Come join the music, dance and fun with Wilmington Police Pipes & Drums, The Blarney Broughs, The Molly Malones, The Walsh Kelley School of Irish Dance, Slainte UNCW Irish Dance Club and more! The parade will begin at 11am at Red Cross and N. Front Street. The St. Patrick’s Day Festival will be held at Riverfront Park at noon. This is a rain or shine event! Free. (910)686-5498; Parade: Downtown Wilmington, Festival: Riverfront Park, Wilmington.
www.wilmingtonstpatricksdayfestival.com/

Sunday Brunch with The Blarney Brogues
Mar. 16
12pm-2pm. St. Patty’s Day just isn’t the same without a show from Wilmington’s Celtic Trio, The Blarney Brogues! Join Matt Malloy (guitar), Craig Thompson (fiddle and tin whistle) and Zach Hanner (bodhran and guitar) for some classic Irish tunes as well as a few original numbers that sing the praises of beer, fightin’ and lovely ladies. Chef Denise Gordon will offer a fabulous brunch that will go down nicely with a Guinness or your favorite brunch cocktail. Admission charge. (910)399-3669; TheartreNOW, 19 S 10th St, Wilmington.  www.theatrewilmington.com

Quintiles Wrightsville Beach Marathon 
Mar. 16
5am shuttle, 6:15am early start and 6:45am official start. Experience marathon madness at the beach with the 5th Annual Quintiles Wrightsville Beach Marathon, a winner of the Southeast Tourism Top 20 events! This exciting event draws competitors from all over the country to beautiful Wrightsville Beach and “Runner’s World” ranked this competition as one of the top ten races that qualified runners for the Boston Marathon. Free for spectators. (910)297-4973; Wrightsville Beach, Salisbury Ave, Wrightsville Beach.  www.wrightsvillebeachmarathon.com/

Luck of the Irish Full Moon Cruise
Mar. 16

6pm-8pm. View the famous Wilmington Historic Riverwalk while cruising under the light of a full moon! Kick off your St. Patrick’s Day festivities with a full bar and live acoustic music on a scenic two hour cruise complete with Irish apps and beer. Admission charge. (910)338-3134; Wilmington Water Tours, 212 S Water St, Wilmington.  www.wilmingtonwatertours.net/index.html

St.Patrick’s Day Lunch Cruise
Mar. 17
1pm-3pm. Enjoy a corn beef and cabbage lunch catered by Front Street Brewery, views of the beautiful historic Riverwalk and authentic bagpipe music before the cruise. Sip on the drink of your choice and enjoy the traditional music both before and during the cruise. Get in the Irish spirit with an authentic traditional meal and get your jig on. Admission charge. (910)338-3134; Wilmington Water Tours, 212 S Water St, Wilmington.
www.zerve.com/amp/view_activity.php?activity_id=6016&event_id=1896732

The Fantasticks
Mar. 18
7pm. Amongst magic, mischief and theatrical thrills, this sophisticated musical brings to life equally funny and moving themes of fantasy, innocence, reality and meaningful love. The production, presented by the Nebraska Theatre Caravan, features the original, live accompaniment with piano and harp and adds a steam punk design spin to costumes, sets and props in this classic show. Admission charge. (910)962-3500; UNCW Kenan Auditorium, 601 S College Rd, Wilmington. www.uncw.edu/presents/UNCWPresentsTheFantasticks.html

Encore Spring Restaurant Week 2014
Mar. 19-Mar. 26
The eight-day dining event features prix fixe menus at a special price. It is a great benefit for both diners and the restaurant community, giving the local economy a boost and foodies a chance to experience what our culinary scene offers. This culinary celebration features more than 30 restaurants throughout Wilmington. (910)791-0688 x1004; Various Restaurants Wilmington. www.encorerestaurantweek.com

Of Mice & Men
Mar. 20-23
Sunday 3pm, all other shows 8pm. In Depression-era California, two displaced migrant ranch hands drift from place to place, chasing a dream of raising enough to stake themselves to their own homestead. George is the quick-witted, cynical protector of Lennie, a hard-working gentle giant of a man with the sensibility of a child. Lennie’s fixation on soft objects leads to an untenable situation in which George’s final act of protection is, by turns, shocking, heartbreaking and inevitable. Admission charge.  (910)632-2241; Thalian Hall, 310 Chestnut St, Wilmington. www.thalianhall.org/thalian-hall/events?mon=2014-03

Rude Bitches Make Me Tired: An Adaption of Celia Rivenbark’s Comedic Book
Mar. 21-Apr. 26

7pm. In this adaptation of Celia Rivenbark’s “Rude Bitches Make Me Tired: it’s slightly profane and entirely logical answers to modern etiquette dilemmas.” Enjoy an amazing three-course meal whilst enjoying this show as it takes you through how to cope with stingy check splitters, rude airline passengers, the odd dinner party faux pas, line jumpers and much, much more. *Disclaimer: This show contains content that could, in itself, be considered rude, crude and/or lewd. Parental Guidance insisted upon. * Tickets required. (910)399-3669; TheatreNOW, 19 S 10th St, Wilmington. www.theatrewilmington.com/dinnershows.html

Civil War Hike: Chris Fonvielle Leads Walk to Sugarloaf
Mar. 22
2pm-4pm. Parts of the Civil War Battle of Fort Fisher were fought across the Federal Point peninsula. Dr. Chris Fonvielle will lead the popular narrated walk, “The Sugar Loaf Line of Defense” from the Federal Point History Center through the Carolina Beach State Park to Sugarloaf, a landmark on the banks of the Cape Fear River. There is a limit of 25 participants. Reservations required. $5 donation requested. (910)458-0502; Sugarloaf trenches and embankments, 1121 N Lake Park Blvd, Carolina Beach.  www.federalpointhistory.org/upcoming_events

National Medal of Honor Day
Mar. 22
10am-4pm. This program will focus on the recipients of the Medal of Honor and mark National Medal of Honor Day.  Find out about the 70 men who were awarded our Nation’s highest military award for their actions during the campaign to capture Fort Fisher. (910)458-5538; Fort Fisher State Historic Site, 1610 Ft Fisher Blvd S, Kure Beach.
www.nchistoricsites.org/fisher/

Coastal Living Show
Mar. 22-23
Saturday 9am-5pm and Sunday 11am-5pm. Everything you could want or need is at this show featuring over 100 vendors selling their wares and demonstrating the latest trends in everything from physical fitness to scents. Search for gifts, products and services for the home garden or office- perfect for seaside living! Free admission. (910)251-5031; Cape Fear C.C. Schwartz Center, 411 N Front St, Wilmington. www.wilmingtonwomansclub.com/

Celtic Nights: Journey of Hope
Mar. 24
7pm. Come see this unique show rooted in tradition and showcased against a thundering backdrop of expert dancing and musicianship, costumes, sets, and dramatic lighting. In this glittering and splashy production, some of Ireland’s most prominent talents create an exhilarating picture of a proud people who dared to dream big and carve out a life in the New World. Admission charge. (910)962-3500; UNCW Kenan Auditorium, 601 S College Rd, Wilmington.
www.uncw.edu/presents/UNCWPresentsCelticNights.html

Gone with the Wind-A Southern Tea Affair

Mar. 24

2pm. Menus include finger sandwiches, scones, desserts and confections served with tea. There will be prizes and a surprise or two for you to enjoy. Make reservations and pay early. Both the 2012 and 2013 Tea Series sold out months in advance! (910)251-3700; Bellamy Mansion, 503 Market St, Wilmington.www.bellamymansion.org

Season Headliner: Bela Fleck & Abigail Washburn
Mar. 27
8pm. Banjo masters and bluegrass powercouple Bela Fleck and Abigail Washburn come together for a rare evening of music featuring traditional and orignial tunes inspired by contemporary-progressive bluegrass and music from throughout the world. Admission charge. (910)962-3500; UNCW Kenan Auditorium, 601 S College Rd, Wilmington.
www.events.uncw.edu/mastercalendar/MasterCalendar.aspx

Pro Musica

Mar. 27

7pm-8pm. This concert series celebrates the works of living composers, co-sponsored by the UNCW Department of Music. Admission charge. (910)395-5999; Cameron Art Museum, 3201 S 17th St, Wilmington. www.cameronartmuseum.org/index.php?c=calendar&month=3&year=2014

Fourth Friday Gallery Walk
Mar. 28

6pm-9pm. This monthly event is where downtown galleries and studios open their doors to the public in an after-hours celebration of art and culture. The art walk is a self-guided tour featuring exhibitions of  oils, acrylics, watercolors, pastels, metals, ceramics, mixed media and more. Maps are available at all participating locations. Free. (910)343-8997; Various art galleries, Wilmington.www.artscouncilofwilmington.org/?page_id=907

Sun Coast Cruisers Back to the Beach 2014
Mar. 28-29
Friday join the cruise-in at Smithfield’s Chicken and BBQ on 17th Street from 3pm-6pm and a parade of classic cars at 7pm from Food Lion in Carolina Beach to the Fort Fisher Air Force Recreation Area complete with a social afterwards. On Saturday, the show will start at 9am and throughout the day patrons can enjoy live music by the Coco Loco Band, raffles & door prizes, craft vendors, food and much more! Free for spectators. (910)707-0060; Fort Fisher Air Force Recreation Area, 118 Riverfront Rd, Kure Beach.  www.backtothebeachcarshow.com.

Poplar Grove Herb & Garden Fair
Mar. 29-30

Saturday 9am-4pm and Sunday 10am-4pm. This fair offers everything you need to start having fun in your garden, from locally-grown plants and shrubs, to lawn furniture, herbal products, yard art, butterfly houses and one-of-a-kind garden whimsies. Educational classes and an early morning bird hike are offered and don’t forget to seek advice from our Master Gardeners. Also we are having our Peanut 5K Fun Run on Sunday morning. Free, donations requested. (910)686-9518; Poplar Grove Plantation, 10200 US Highway 17 N, Wilmington. www.poplargrove.org/annual-events/herb-garden-fair/

9 Panel War on the Shore National Cheerleading Championships

Mar. 30

1pm. Top notch prizes awarded in this national cheerleading competition. With an easy to navigate venue, this event is sure to be the hit of the season! Come see who will be crowned NATIONAL CHAMPIONS! Admission charge.  (910)251-5101; 515 Nutt St, Wilmington.www.businessmadecasual.com/event/9-panel-war-on-the-shore-national-championship/

Michael Wolf: After Identifying Your Goal, Act On It

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I remember when I was a young man my father giving me advice about being on the receiving end of a high pressure sale. He said, “Just tell the guy if he has to have an answer right now then the answer is no.” If you are not ready to commit to something then you are justified with a “no” answer. Often the “no” answer comes in the form of “let me think about.”

In Wilmington real estate however, if you have already made the decision to purchase a new home in the 200,000.00 – 275,000.00 range, your hesitation could cost you. No pressure here, just stating a fact. Inventory is disappearing at those price points. If you find that perfect home, in that price range, put your offer in.

I would also go as far as to say if the property absolutely “speaks” to you, meets all your criteria, and you get the feeling that “it’s the one”, then hesitation should be avoided. No matter what the price point.

Too often, and with more frequency lately, I have seen the buyers desired home slip through their fingers due to waiting a bit. Sometimes within a matter of just a few hours their dream home is gone; soon to be enjoyed by someone else.

Years ago I heard a man named Barry Clarkson speaking about achieving what you want. Whether it is business, marriage, home ownership, whatever. After identifying your goal, act on it. He said, “Tomorrow kills.” How true that is for so many things.

Did I mention interest rates are supposed to go up this Spring?

Wolf, MichaelMichael Wolf
Broker/REALTOR at Intracoastal Realty
mwolf@intracoastalrealty.com
Direct: 910-859-0733