200 Oak Branches Close, Greenville NC 28590

MLS# 103555

Spacious brick home with updates.  This home boasts hardwood floors in greatrooms and formal dining room.  The kitchen has granite time countertops and ceramic tile floors.  There is a third floor that could be a teenage suite/recreation room with its own bathroom with a garden tub and ceramic tile floor.  Storage shed sold in as is condition.  New 30 year architectural roof.

Learn more about 200 Oak Branches Close and other Greenville real estate for sale by visiting HomesofGreenvilleNC.com, and GreenvilleRealEstateCo.com.

Search all Greenville real estate for sale.

Liz Freeman and her team have distinguished themselves as leaders in the Greenville NC real estate market. Liz assists buyers looking for Greenville NC real estate for sale and aggressively markets Greenville NC homes for sale.

Liz is also a Certified Distressed Property Expert (CDPE), avoid foreclosure and short sale expert, committed to helping families in financial hardship find options to foreclosure. For more information you can visit Liz Helps.com. You can reach Liz by filling out her online contact form or give her a call

Congratulations!  You’ve survived the process of leaving one home and finding another and the onus of packing everything up and then unpacking the same boxes.  Your child is enrolled in a new school; you’ve found a new bank and a new doctor; you’ve investigated trash pick-up times, licensing requirements, and registering your car; and your mail is being forwarded to you on a regular basis.  So now what?

Now that things have calmed down, and you’re somewhat settled in your Greenville NC home, you may feel a bit lonely in an unfamiliar place.  The following tips are designed to help you become acquainted with and feel a part of your new community—the first steps in recreating the sense of belonging you had in your previous location.

• Go on-line to learn about your new area and what it has to offer.  Look at the city Chamber of Commerce, or convention and visitors’ bureau websites and request maps and free visitors’ guides.  Research religious facilities, cultural opportunities, parks and outdoor activities, and so much more. 
• Acquire a regional map and drive around.  Explore shortcuts and pinpoint the location of shopping malls, medical facilities, the post office, libraries, city offices, etc.
• Talk to neighbors.  Request advice about home maintenance companies, babysitters, doctors and ask about the civic league or HOA associated with your Greenville NC home.
• Take a walking tour of your neighborhood.  Introduce to and initiate conversations with residents who are outside.  Compliment their yard or ask for directions, for starters.
• Attend garage/yard sales nearby.  Shoppers at these events are usually friendly and gregarious, so talk to them.
• Read the local newspaper to discover places of interest and happenings in the area.  Look for clubs or group meetings that focus on your interests—art, gardening, sports, books, crafts, etc.
• Seek out neighborhood coffee shops and restaurants and get acquainted with the “regulars.”
• Join a service club such as the Lions or Kiwanis or get involved with a political group.
• Join a recreation center or gym.  Attend classes there or work with a group who will share your interests.
• Visit a library or bookstore to pick up books, maps, and visitors guides for your new town.
• Volunteer.  Check with a local church or synagogue, a hospital, library, or school near your Greenville NC home.  Volunteering is a terrific way to meet people and to make you feel an integral part of the community.
• Give a housewarming party and invite all your neighbors.  Such an occasion is a good impetus to finish unpacking and finalizing the decorating of your Greenville NC home.  It is also a wonderful way to make friends.

Before long you will become familiar with your new environment and be comfortable there.  Best of all, you’ll “belong” once again!

Search all Greenville NC real estate and homes for sale.

Whether you are considering buying a home, selling a home or both, Liz Freeman knows the Greenville, North Carolina area inside and out.  Most of her team members were born and raised in Pitt County, NC which has provided them with strong ties to the area, allowing them to become a successful Greenville NC real estate team.

Liz Freeman and her team have distinguished themselves as leaders in the Greenville NC real estate market. Liz assists buyers looking for Greenville NC real estate for sale and aggressively markets Greenville NC homes for sale. Liz is also a Certified Distressed Property Expert (CDPE), avoid foreclosure and short sale expert, committed to helping families in financial hardship find options to foreclosure. For more information you can visit Liz Helps.com. You can reach Liz by filling out her online contact form or give her a call.

3717 Cancion Street, Greenville NC 27858

MLS# 103459

Charming home in the desirable neighborhood of Tucker Estates.  The kitchen has new granite countertops and most of the interior has been painted recently.  All of the bedrooms have walk in closets.  The master bedroom is conveniently located on the first floor. The 4^th bedroom could be a bonus room.  The backyard has been professionally landscaped with a retaining wall.

Learn more about 3717 Cancion Street and other Greenville homes for sale by visiting HomesofGreenvilleNC.com, and GreenvilleRealEstateCo.com.

Search all Greenville homes for sale.

Liz Freeman and her team have distinguished themselves as leaders in the Greenville NC real estate market. Liz assists buyers looking for Greenville NC real estate for sale and aggressively markets Greenville NC homes for sale.

Liz is also a Certified Distressed Property Expert (CDPE), avoid foreclosure and short sale expert, committed to helping families in financial hardship find options to foreclosure. For more information you can visit Liz Helps.com. You can reach Liz by filling out her online contact form or give her a call

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PRICE IT RIGHT FROM THE START:

Since the greatest number of showings will occur in the first two to three weeks of the listing, it is important that you set the price (based on comparables and advice of your Realtor) competitively at the outset. Lowering the price after the initial listing only wastes time and costs you potential buyers.

BE PREPARED TO LOSE SOME MONEY: 

Understand that this is a market based on supply and demand and that you just may not be able to sell for the appraised value of your Greenville NC home or even what you paid for the property a few years ago. The market value of your home today is what a buyer is willing to pay, so unless you want to hold on to your home until the market improves, be prepared for the possibility that you may be the one bringing money to table.

ACTIVELY PROMOTE YOUR HOME: 

Ask potential Realtors you interview how they plan you market your home--and to whom? If it is a starter-home that will appeal to the younger set, then take advantage of technology such as smart phones, attractive photos on the internet, and sites that contain information that potential buyers can access electronically. And don’t forget the old-fashioned word-of-mouth approach. Spread the word among friends, family, coworkers, etc., and ask them to do the same.

OFFER INCENTIVES: 

Today’s sellers are turning more and more to finding ways to create interest in their property and motivate hesitant buyers. Since builders of new homes offer such incentives, it is becoming commonplace for sellers to do the same. Examples of incentives include:

• Paying points will reduce the buyer’s upfront cost and appeals to the cash-conscious.
• Buying down the interest rate: Offering to pay discount points to lower the buyer’s I interest rate will make your home more affordable, and thus more appealing.
• Paying for some or all closing costs: By doing this you are once again decreasing the amount of upfront cash needed by a buyer. You can determine the mount you will contribute or the items you will cover.

        *Providing a home warranty: If you are competing with newer properties, a home warranty will give the buyer some insurance against costly repairs during the first year or two. Such an offering is a relatively inexpensive but is appealing to a concerned consumer.

Note: If you do offer incentives of any kind, make sure that they are included in your real estate listing.

MAKE YOUR HOME MOVE-IN READY: 

Generally speaking, today’s buyers of a Greenville NC home are not looking for a fixer-upper or even for a property that requires any work at all. Their busy schedules motivate them to purchase a house that needs no effort or expense on their part. That isn’t to say that you have you have to make major upgrades, but you do need to make any necessary repairs, complete any projects you may have started, and consider brightening the interior up with fresh pain and new flooring. 

Search all Greenville NC real estate and homes for sale.

Whether you are considering buying a home, selling a home or both, Liz Freeman knows the Greenville, North Carolina area inside and out.  Most of her team members were born and raised in Pitt County, NC which has provided them with strong ties to the area, allowing them to become a successful Greenville NC real estate team.

Liz Freeman and her team have distinguished themselves as leaders in the Greenville NC  real estate market. Liz assists buyers looking for Greenville NC real estate for sale and aggressively markets Greenville NC homes for sale. Liz is also a Certified Distressed Property Expert (CDPE), avoid foreclosure and short sale expert, committed to helping families in financial hardship find options to foreclosure. For more information you can visit Liz Helps.com. You can reach Liz by filling out her online contact form or give her a call.

1345 Doris Circle, Greenville NC 27858

MLS# 103380

Wonderful home located in a sought-after neighborhood.  Are you looking for privacy?  This could be your new home.  Located on over 2 acre lot with a lovely salt-water pool and lots of updates since 2007-Roof, HVAC system, Smart hot water system, Some appliances in kitchen, Exterior paint and New accessories for the swimming pool.  Screened porch, 3^rd floor walk-up attic, large unfinished bonus room, replacement windows. 

Learn more about 1345 Doris Circle and other Greenville real estate for sale by visiting HomesofGreenvilleNC.com, and GreenvilleRealEstateCo.com.

Search all Greenville real estate for sale.

Liz Freeman and her team have distinguished themselves as leaders in the Greenville NC real estate market. Liz assists buyers looking for Greenville NC real estate for sale and aggressively markets Greenville NC homes for sale.

Liz is also a Certified Distressed Property Expert (CDPE), avoid foreclosure and short sale expert, committed to helping families in financial hardship find options to foreclosure. For more information you can visit Liz Helps.com. You can reach Liz by filling out her online contact form or give her a call

The deal, if approved by the states, will attempt to reshape the mortgage industry and will offer at most about $1,800 to each Greenville NC home owner who went into foreclosure; it will also make it easier for current homeowners to reduce the principle of their mortgage or get loan modifications. It will not, however, help those wrongly foreclosed on regain their property, nor will it fully release banks from future criminal lawsuits by individual states. The settlement would apply only to privately held mortgages issued between 2008 and 2011, not those held by government-controlled Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac.

As part of the deal, about 1 million homeowners could also get the principal amount of their mortgages written down by an average of $20,000. One in four Greenville NC homeowners with a mortgage owe more than their home is worth. These so-called "underwater" borrowers currently have little chance of refinancing.

Under the terms of the agreement, about $17 billion of the total amount would go towards reducing the principle for struggling homeowners, $5 billion would be placed into an account for states to use to help pay homeowners recover from "deceptive foreclosure practices," and $3 billion would be used to cover the cost of helping Greenville NC homeowners to refinance at 5.25%.

Liberal activists and some lawmakers have criticized the ongoing settlement talks, arguing that the Obama administration should launch a broad investigation into the mortgage practices of big banks and push for a settlement that is tougher on the banks. "In a world of Occupy Wall Street, activists across this country are going to be looking at this deal very closely," said Bob Borosage, co-director of Campaign for America's Future. He stated that there should be no "sweetheart deal" with major banks and said a $25-billion agreement would be just a "slap on the wrist."

Although Sen. Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio) said the mortgage servicing problems were "part of a long-standing ugly pattern of homeowner abuse" by large banks that warranted a thorough investigation and prosecutions, Housing Secretary Shaun Donovan told state governors that an announcement will be made within weeks.

Search all Greenville NC real estate and homes for sale.

Whether you are considering buying a home, selling a home or both, Liz Freeman knows the Greenville, North Carolina area inside and out.  Most of her team members were born and raised in Pitt County, NC which has provided them with strong ties to the area, allowing them to become a successful Greenville NC real estate team.

Liz Freeman and her team have distinguished themselves as leaders in the Greenville NC  real estate market. Liz assists buyers looking for Greenville NC real estate for sale and aggressively markets Greenville NC homes for sale. Liz is also a Certified Distressed Property Expert (CDPE), avoid foreclosure and short sale expert, committed to helping families in financial hardship find options to foreclosure. For more information you can visit Liz Helps.com. You can reach Liz by filling out her online contact form or give her a call.

3318 Pauls Path Road, Lagrange NC 28551

MLS# 103135

Own a Southern Mansion, with a 2 acres stocked pond, new playhouse with electricity, cedar cabin for guests, basketball court, tennis court, pool and the entire property has lights on timbers.  This magnificent home boasts 30 foot ceilings in the foyer, 2 parlors, billiards room, sunroom, theater room, loft, an attached apartment and workrooms.  Outside you will enjoy relaxing by the 120K gallon pool that has been refurbished along with the pool side entertainment room.

Learn more about 3318 Pauls Path Road and other Greenville homes for sale by visiting HomesofGreenvilleNC.com, and GreenvilleRealEstateCo.com.

Search all Greenville homes for sale.

Liz Freeman and her team have distinguished themselves as leaders in the Greenville NC real estate market. Liz assists buyers looking for Greenville NC real estate for sale and aggressively markets Greenville NC homes for sale.

Liz is also a Certified Distressed Property Expert (CDPE), avoid foreclosure and short sale expert, committed to helping families in financial hardship find options to foreclosure. For more information you can visit Liz Helps.com. You can reach Liz by filling out her online contact form or give her a call

Greenville NC Foreclosure Activity and 30 Year Interest Rate

The interest rate on a 30 year mortgage was 3.96% in December and there were 8 new foreclosures.

Foreclosure activity is based on the total number of properties that receive foreclosure filings – default notice, foreclosure auction notice or bank repossession – each month. Interest rate is based on the average 30-year fixed rate from Freddie Mac Primary Mortgage Market Survey.

Greenville NC Foreclosure Geographical Comparison

Greenville NC foreclosures were 0.14% below national statistics, 0.04% below North Carolina figures and the same as Pitt County numbers in December.

Greenville NC Foreclosure Activity by Month

Greenville NC foreclosure activity is falling. The number of Bank-owned properties stayed the same in December with 6 properties while the number of Auctions increased to 2.

Are you or someone you know behind on mortgage payments and facing a Greenville NC foreclosure? You do have options. A short sale may be the answer to saving you, your family and your home. I am a Certified Distressed Property Expert (CDPE). Give me a call for a private consultation.

Search all Greenville NC real estate and homes for sale.

Whether you are considering buying a home, selling a home or both, Liz Freeman knows the Greenville, North Carolina area inside and out.  Most of her team members were born and raised in Pitt County, NC which has provided them with strong ties to the area, allowing them to become a successful Greenville NC real estate team.

Liz Freeman and her team have distinguished themselves as leaders in the Greenville NC  real estate market. Liz assists buyers looking for Greenville NC real estate for sale and aggressively markets Greenville NC homes for sale. Liz is also a Certified Distressed Property Expert (CDPE), avoid foreclosure and short sale expert, committed to helping families in financial hardship find options to foreclosure. For more information you can visit Liz Helps.com. You can reach Liz by filling out her online contact form or give her a call. 

2729 Townes Drive, Greenville NC 27858

MLS# 103135

Best buy in Breezewood Townes! Fabulous three bedroom, two and half bath townhome with 2006 square foot attached one car garage, walk-in closets in all bedrooms.  Large greatroom has new laminate flooring, vaulted ceiling, gas log fireplace and exit to patio that is enclosed by a wooden fence.  The master suite offers a vaulted ceiling, two closets, double vanity, whirlpool tub and separate shower.  Conveniently located to shopping, schools and ECU

Learn more about 2729 Townes Drive and other Greenville real estate for sale by visiting HomesofGreenvilleNC.com, and GreenvilleRealEstateCo.com.

Search all Greenville real estate for sale.

Liz Freeman and her team have distinguished themselves as leaders in the Greenville NC real estate market. Liz assists buyers looking for Greenville NC real estate for sale and aggressively markets Greenville NC homes for sale.

Liz is also a Certified Distressed Property Expert (CDPE), avoid foreclosure and short sale expert, committed to helping families in financial hardship find options to foreclosure. For more information you can visit Liz Helps.com. You can reach Liz by filling out her online contact form or give her a call

The cost of this insurance—from .25 to 6% of the loan—is almost always the responsibility of the buyer of Greenville NC real estate.  (There is such a thing as lender-paid insurance, but this type carries a higher interest rate and is non-refundable.)  Usually the borrower has a choice of payment plans, which included the following:

Annuals. The borrower pays the first-year premium at closing; an annual renewal premium is collected monthly as part of the total monthly house payment.

Monthly Premiums. The cost is slightly more than traditional mortgage insurance plans but monthly premiums dramatically reduce mortgage insurance closing costs. Borrowers pay for mortgage insurance monthly as part of their total monthly house payment but need to pay only one month's mortgage insurance premium at closing, rather than one year's.

Singles. The borrower pays a one-time single premium (instead of an initial premium and renewal premiums). Since single premiums are typically financed as part of the mortgage loan amount, no out-of-pocket cash is used for mortgage insurance with a nonrefundable premium at closing.

These plans offer the choice of refundable or nonrefundable premiums. A refundable premium allows the borrower the opportunity to receive money back on any unused portion, in the event that mortgage insurance coverage is discontinued before the loan is paid in full. The cost for a nonrefundable premium is slightly less than that of a refundable premium, thereby giving the borrower a small savings. If coverage is discontinued on a loan with a nonrefundable premium, the borrower has no opportunity for a refund.   If you are unsure which plan is best for you, visit your state mortgage insurance office.

Unfortunately, rumors and myths abound about the difficulty or even impossibility of cancelling refundable mortgage insurance.  Fortunately, however, the Homeowner’s Protection Act of 1998 requires lenders of insurance loans for Greenville NC real estate to notify consumers of their rights in this regard on a yearly basis and to automatically cancel the insurance when the mortgage has amortized to 78% of the original property value.  In addition, you may apply for cancellation of your mortgage insurance when that percentage reaches 80%.  For specific details of the HPA requirement in terms of timing and content of these notices, click here. 

While paying for mortgage insurance does entail an extra expense for the home purchaser, it also has its benefits.  It allows new buyers to become a homeowner sooner than if they needed to have a 20% down payment and greatly increases their buying power.  Repeat buyers can gain a significant tax advantage by having more deductible interest to claim.  They can also use the money saved by not putting down 20% to cover moving costs or to put into other investments.

Search all Greenville NC real estate and homes for sale.

Whether you are considering buying a home, selling a home or both, Liz Freeman knows the Greenville, North Carolina area inside and out.  Most of her team members were born and raised in Pitt County, NC which has provided them with strong ties to the area, allowing them to become a successful Greenville NC real estate team.

Liz Freeman and her team have distinguished themselves as leaders in the Greenville NC  real estate market. Liz assists buyers looking for Greenville NC real estate for sale and aggressively markets Greenville NC homes for sale. Liz is also a Certified Distressed Property Expert (CDPE), avoid foreclosure and short sale expert, committed to helping families in financial hardship find options to foreclosure. For more information you can visit Liz Helps.com. You can reach Liz by filling out her online contact form or give her a call.

2106 Southview Drive, Greenville NC 27858

MLS# 103053

Professionally updated and decorated; this four bedroom, three bath home is located in a neighborhood accessible to shopping and ECU.  Kitchen has all new stainless steel appliances, new paint in most rooms and gas pack was new in 2007.  A nice wood fence surrounds the backyard.

Learn more about 2106 Southview Drive and other Greenville homes for sale by visiting HomesofGreenvilleNC.com, and GreenvilleRealEstateCo.com.

Search all Greenville homes for sale.

Liz Freeman and her team have distinguished themselves as leaders in the Greenville NC real estate market. Liz assists buyers looking for Greenville NC real estate for sale and aggressively markets Greenville NC homes for sale.

Liz is also a Certified Distressed Property Expert (CDPE), avoid foreclosure and short sale expert, committed to helping families in financial hardship find options to foreclosure. For more information you can visit Liz Helps.com. You can reach Liz by filling out her online contact form or give her a call

WHAT’S IN:

• Green features:  Energy-efficient appliances, air-tight windows, heating systems, etc., have become expected features..
• Sustainable materials:  The use of stone, terra cotta, bamboo, and cork are popular choices.
• Storage areas:  A garage, preferably a 2 car, is a must, as are walk-in-closets, pantries, and an abundance of storage space.
• Condition:  No fixer-uppers for this year’s buyers.  They are looking for a move-in-ready, well-maintained piece of Greenville NC real estate.
• Layout:  The open layout with few walls is still the most popular, as it allows for casual dining, family gatherings, and large-scale entertaining.
• Luxury touches and the amenities that convey luxury:  High dollar finishes, granite counters, stainless steel appliances, tile baths, counter bars and stools are all desired.
• Outdoor Living:  Screen porches, outdoor kitchens, two-way fireplaces, and the all-important deck or patio add to a home’s appeal.
• Specialized space:  Reflecting today’s lifestyle, high on the wanted list are media and workout rooms.  Some type of foyer or entrance space is also a necessity for today’s buyers.
• Quality bathrooms:  Definitely more than one!  Pedestal sinks; soaking, jetted, and claw foot tubs; and a separate shower and tub are also very popular in the bathroom right now and are what most buyers are going for.

WHAT’S OUT:

• Retro touches:  Features of 1970’s-80’s homes such as avocado appliances, walnut cabinets, and Formica countertops are being shunned this year.
• Dated layout:  Buyers of Greenville NC real estate are giving a “thumbs down” to restrictive layouts and are eschewing bedrooms off living or dining rooms, center dining rooms, and stairways located directly in front of an entrance door.

And topping the list:  Since this is still decidedly a buyer’s market, the most desired feature this year is a bargain, be it in price or incentives, or both.

Search all Greenville NC real estate and homes for sale.

Whether you are considering buying a home, selling a home or both, Liz Freeman knows the Greenville, North Carolina area inside and out.  Most of her team members were born and raised in Pitt County, NC which has provided them with strong ties to the area, allowing them to become a successful Greenville NC real estate team.

Liz Freeman and her team have distinguished themselves as leaders in the Greenville NC  real estate market. Liz assists buyers looking for Greenville NC real estate for sale and aggressively markets Greenville NC homes for sale. Liz is also a Certified Distressed Property Expert (CDPE), avoid foreclosure and short sale expert, committed to helping families in financial hardship find options to foreclosure. For more information you can visit Liz Helps.com. You can reach Liz by filling out her online contact form or give her a call.

4415 Parker Ct, Farmville NC 27828

MLS# 103022

Beautiful 4 bedroom, 3 bath home with lots of upgrades.  Lovely home custom built for current owners.  This home boasts molding throughout, hardwood flooring in foyer and formal dinning room, ceramic tile in the kitchen with stainless steel appliances.  You will enjoy the finished bonus room, office and screened porch.  Amazing value!

Learn more about 4415 Parker Ct. and other Greenville homes for sale by visiting HomesofGreenvilleNC.com, and GreenvilleRealEstateCo.com.

Search all Greenville homes for sale.

Liz Freeman and her team have distinguished themselves as leaders in the Greenville NC real estate market. Liz assists buyers looking for Greenville NC real estate for sale and aggressively markets Greenville NC homes for sale.

Liz is also a Certified Distressed Property Expert (CDPE), avoid foreclosure and short sale expert, committed to helping families in financial hardship find options to foreclosure. For more information you can visit Liz Helps.com. You can reach Liz by filling out her online contact form or give her a call

There were 94 Greenville NC foreclosure homes in November, 2011, according to RealtyTrac.com. 1 in every 8,444 housing units received a foreclosure filing. The average sales price of a Greenville NC home was $134,213 and the average sales price of a foreclosure home was $102,632, a $31,581 savings.

Greenville NC Foreclosure Activity and 30 Year Interest Rate

The interest rate on a 30 year mortgage was 3.99% in November and there were 6 new foreclosures.

Foreclosure activity is based on the total number of properties that receive foreclosure filings – default notice, foreclosure auction notice or bank repossession – each month. Interest rate is based on the average 30-year fixed rate from Freddie Mac Primary Mortgage Market Survey.

Greenville NC Foreclosure Geographical Comparison

Greenville NC foreclosures were 0.16% below national statistics, 0.05% below North Carolina figures and the same as Pitt County numbers in Novmeber.

Greenville NC Foreclosure Activity by Month

Greenville NC foreclosure activity is falling. The number of Bank-owned properties decreased from 7 in October  to 6 in November while the number of Auctions decreased from 2 to 0.

Are you or someone you know behind on mortgage payments and facing a Greenville NC foreclosure? You do have options. A short sale may be the answer to saving you, your family and your home. I am a Certified Distressed Property Expert (CDPE). Give me a call for a private consultation.

Search all Greenville NC real estate and homes for sale.

Whether you are considering buying a home, selling a home or both, Liz Freeman knows the Greenville, North Carolina area inside and out.  Most of her team members were born and raised in Pitt County, NC which has provided them with strong ties to the area, allowing them to become a successful Greenville NC real estate team.

Liz Freeman and her team have distinguished themselves as leaders in the Greenville NC  real estate market. Liz assists buyers looking for Greenville NC real estate for sale and aggressively markets Greenville NC homes for sale. Liz is also a Certified Distressed Property Expert (CDPE), avoid foreclosure and short sale expert, committed to helping families in financial hardship find options to foreclosure. For more information you can visit Liz Helps.com. You can reach Liz by filling out her online contact form or give her a call.

Yes, we’ve reached the end of what has been a difficult year for so many, and yet we’ll celebrate the coming of 2012—and a fresh start-- with glittery hats, silly horns, champagne (or beer), and kisses at midnight.  We’ll reflect on the old year and make resolutions for the new one.  Forecasters of the future will capture our imaginations as we wonder what is to come in terms of scientific discoveries, political unrest, wars, health issues, and the economy.  So many questions—and so many possibilities…it’s enough to wear one out.  So sit back in the den of your Greenville NC real estate, relax, and ponder these points.

• Did you know that celebrating the New Year is a tradition that dates back nearly 4000 years? Or that Julius Caesar was the first person to designate January 1^st as the start of the new year?
• Did you know that the symbol of Baby New Year dates back to ancient Greece? The Greeks marked the rebirth of their god of fertility by parading a baby around in a basket.
• 40 to 45 percent of American adults make one or more resolutions which include weight loss, exercise, quitting smoking, and money management. By the second week of January, 25 percent of people have abandoned their goals, however.
• Certain foods play an important role in the kitchens of Greenville NC real estate on New Year’s Day.  Circular foods such as donuts and cakes represent good fortune, while legumes, especially black-eyed peas and lentils, promise good luck and wealth.  Cabbage and other greens whose leaves resemble folded money are also popular, as is ham, which symbolizes progress and prosperity. 
• As with many other holidays, numerous superstitions and traditional practices are connected with the onset of the new year.  It is thought that the first visitors to your Greenville NC real estate will bring you good or bad luck, depending on who you keep as friends and enemies, and in Italy people wear red underwear on New Year's Day as a symbol of good luck for the upcoming year.
• And as for the future of Greenville NC real estate?  Opinions vary from the cautiously optimistic to those far less rosy, with many financial gurus still sitting on the fence.  Oh, for a crystal ball!

As you reflect on the past year, do remember the good things that have occurred in your life and in the world and resolve to greet 2012 with a positive attitude and a sense of anticipation.

Search all Greenville NC real estate and homes for sale.

Whether you are considering buying a home, selling a home or both, Liz Freeman knows the Greenville, North Carolina area inside and out.  Most of her team members were born and raised in Pitt County, NC which has provided them with strong ties to the area, allowing them to become a successful Greenville NC real estate team.

Liz Freeman and her team have distinguished themselves as leaders in the Greenville NC  real estate market. Liz assists buyers looking for Greenville NC real estate for sale and aggressively markets Greenville NC homes for sale. Liz is also a Certified Distressed Property Expert (CDPE), avoid foreclosure and short sale expert, committed to helping families in financial hardship find options to foreclosure. For more information you can visit Liz Helps.com. You can reach Liz by filling out her online contact form or give her a call.

A recent survey by Houselogic.com, the consumer website from the National Association of Realtors®, finds that jobs and the housing market will be two of the most important issues for voters in the 2012 election. Nearly one-third of respondents said housing will be the top issue on their mind when they head to the polls next November.

Respondents were asked “What issue area will have the greatest impact on your vote in 2012?” National security, healthcare, and energy/environment trailed housing and unemployment by wide margins:

• Jobs/unemployment – 54 percent
• Housing – 27 percent
• National security – 8 percent
• Healthcare – 4 percent
• Energy/Environment – 2 percent
• Other – 4 percent

With unemployment still high, it is easy to see why so many Americans are concerned about the job market. However, employment and the housing market are inextricably linked because economic growth and job creation cannot occur without a housing recovery.

Now take a look at how the Greenville NC real estate market performed in November.

Greenville NC real estate sales statistics for November saw the average sales price increase by 1% to $161,120 when compared to October 2010.  The sold listings have increased by 26%.  New listings have decreased by 19% when compared to 2010 while pending sales have increased by 28% when compared with November 2010.  Market times increased by 3 days or 2% from November 2010.

Search all Greenville NC real estate and homes for sale.

Whether you are considering buying a home, selling a home or both, Liz Freeman knows the Greenville, North Carolina area inside and out.  Most of her team members were born and raised in Pitt County, NC which has provided them with strong ties to the area, allowing them to become a successful Greenville NC real estate team.

Liz Freeman and her team have distinguished themselves as leaders in the Greenville NC  real estate market. Liz assists buyers looking for Greenville NC real estate for sale and aggressively markets Greenville NC homes for sale. Liz is also a Certified Distressed Property Expert (CDPE), avoid foreclosure and short sale expert, committed to helping families in financial hardship find options to foreclosure. For more information you can visit Liz Helps.com. You can reach Liz by filling out her online contact form or give her a call.

Information is provided by the Greenville Multiple Listing Service and is deemed accurate but not guaranteed.

1546 Candlewick Drive, Greenville NC 27834

MLS# 102889

Private home on a wooded lot that is located at the back of the subdivision.  There is a new deck on the front and the back of the home.  Throughout the home you will find new paint.  The kitchen boasts ceramic tile floors, a dishwasher, disposal, tile countertops, breakfast bar and smooth top range.  There are two bedrooms on the second floor and a third bedroom/bonus room on the basement level.  Greatroom has a fireplace. Both front and back doors were new in December 2011.  Storage building measures 12.3 feet X 8.3 feet sold as is.

Learn more about 1546 Candlewick Drive and other Greenville homes for sale by visiting HomesofGreenvilleNC.com, and GreenvilleRealEstateCo.com.

Search all Greenville homes for sale.

Liz Freeman and her team have distinguished themselves as leaders in the Greenville NC real estate market. Liz assists buyers looking for Greenville NC real estate for sale and aggressively markets Greenville NC homes for sale.

Liz is also a Certified Distressed Property Expert (CDPE), avoid foreclosure and short sale expert, committed to helping families in financial hardship find options to foreclosure. For more information you can visit Liz Helps.com. You can reach Liz by filling out her online contact form or give her a call

December 20 -28.  Hanukkah (or any one of a dozen spellings). 

This  Festival of Lights is an eight-day Jewish holiday commemorating the rededication of the Holy Temple in Jerusalem at the time of the Maccabean revolt of the second century BCE. Hanukkah is observed for eight nights and days, starting on the 25th day of Kislev according to the Hebrew calendar, which may occur at any time from late November to late December in the Gregorian calendar. The festival is observed by the ;lighting of the candles on a nine-branched menorah, one candle on each night of the holiday, progressing to eight on the final night, and it is customary to give children one gift (gelt) each night.  Although it is based on a military victory, it is actually considered a time to celebrate Jewish independence and religious freedom in general.  Hanukkah is a relatively minor holiday in the Jewish year; in the United States, however, its closeness to Christmas has brought greater attention to Hanukkah and its gift-giving, special foods, and games.

December 25.  Christmas

The religious basis:   Christmas is a Christian holy day which celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ. It is typically celebrated on December 25^th, and the word Christmas comes from "Christ's mass." The story of the birth of Christ is told in the opening chapters of the gospels of Luke and John.  Each contains different elements of the Christmas story. The visit of the Archangel to the shepherds and the birth of Jesus in a manger are from Luke. The story the visit from the Wise Men bringing gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh are from Matthew.

Over the years Christmas has also become a very popular social holiday with an emphasis on lighted and decorated trees and wreaths, exchange of presents, caroling, special foods, and the colors red and green.  Christmas traditions abound throughout the Western world, many of which have secular origins, some with their roots in ancient folklore and pagan beliefs. Click here to learn about a wide range of Christmas customs.

December 26-January 1. 

Kwanzaa.  Neither political nor religious, Kwanzaa is a reflective holiday which was created in the 1960’s to foster pride and unity among African-Americans.  Kwanzaa is a week -long celebration honoring universal African-American heritage, family life, and culture. It features activities such as lighting a candle holder with seven candles—each representing an important principle of life--and culminates in a feast and gift giving.  Visit Wikipedia for much more information about this holiday

December 31.  New Year’s Eve. 

New Year's Eve is a social holiday observed annually on December 31, the final day of any given year in the Gregorian calendar. In modern societies New Year's Eve is often celebrated at festive gatherings, during which participants dance, eat, consume alcoholic beverages, and watch or light fireworks to say goodbye to the current year and celebrate the incoming one. The observance of New Year's Eve generally extends through midnight of January 1.  It is a holiday celebrated throughout the world and has many different names.  The dropping of the ball in Times Square and the singing of Auld Lang Syne are symbolic of this holiday in the U.S.           

Here are outstanding power point presentations dealing with each of these holidays. Although the site is designed primarily for children, the extensive array of topics and interesting information provides excellent reading for adults, too.

2907 Cedar Creek Road #C, Greenville NC 27834

MLS# 102844

Great townhome located just two minutes from PCHM.  This home boasts an updated kitchen with new cabinets, refrigerator, dishwasher, new HVAC in 2006.  Outside you will enjoy the patio with privacy fence.  The HOA includes free basic cable, pool, tennis courts, basketball courts, gated community and yard service.

Learn more about 2907 Cedar Creek Road #C and other Greenville real estate for sale by visiting HomesofGreenvilleNC.com, and GreenvilleRealEstateCo.com.

Search all Greenville real estate for sale.

Liz Freeman and her team have distinguished themselves as leaders in the Greenville NC real estate market. Liz assists buyers looking for Greenville NC real estate for sale and aggressively markets Greenville NC homes for sale.

Liz is also a Certified Distressed Property Expert (CDPE), avoid foreclosure and short sale expert, committed to helping families in financial hardship find options to foreclosure. For more information you can visit Liz Helps.com. You can reach Liz by filling out her online contact form or give her a call

OUTSIDE:

• Clean the gutters.  Click here for tips on doing this quickly and safely.
• Clean and oil garden tools.
• Mulch around shrubs and trees.
• Start a compost pile with raked leaves.
• Download this printable to-do list for gardeners which covers the care of shrubs and trees, lawns, perennials and bulbs, clean-up, and maintenance.
• View this YouTube video to assist you in trimming your Greenville NC home with lights and check out this website to learn how to wrap trees and bushes.  (Check all lights for defects before using them.)

INSIDE:

• Change the HVAC filter.
• Check all smoke detectors.
• Clean your oven.
• Make certain your fireplace is clean and in good working order.
• Click here for tips about safely putting lights on the tree in your Greenville NC home.
• Buy and put up the tree.
• Check lists for menus, gifts, etc.
• Decorate the house.
• Look under sink cabinets to check for moisture and/or leaks.
• Having guests? Clean out the guest room (or space). Dust, vacuum, change linens. Prepare a care package of whatever you think your guest might enjoy. Spend the night in your guest room to make sure it´s comfortable.
• Evaluate the amount of moisture in your home. Low moisture content in the air can cause excessive static electricity, dry coughs, and problems with your sinuses in the coldest parts of the winter. Consider purchasing a humidifier—cost ranges between $30 and $150.  (Old home remedy trick: hang a sheet or towel in the shower area and keep it wet and the shower curtain open. Moisture then evaporates and gets into the air. Swap out the sheet or towel at least every week. This trick may make the coldest, driest months more comfortable.)
• Check your roof for broken or missing shingles.

Although this list is long, the tasks are actually rather short and just may allow you time to rest, relax, and enjoy the month’s activities.

Search all Greenville NC real estate and homes for sale.

Whether you are considering buying a home, selling a home or both, Liz Freeman knows the Greenville, North Carolina area inside and out.  Most of her team members were born and raised in Pitt County, NC which has provided them with strong ties to the area, allowing them to become a successful Greenville NC real estate team.

Liz Freeman and her team have distinguished themselves as leaders in the Greenville NC  real estate market. Liz assists buyers looking for Greenville NC real estate for sale and aggressively markets Greenville NC homes for sale. Liz is also a Certified Distressed Property Expert (CDPE), avoid foreclosure and short sale expert, committed to helping families in financial hardship find options to foreclosure. For more information you can visit Liz Helps.com. You can reach Liz by filling out her online contact form or give her a call.