News & Blog

This year, the March equinox occurs on the 20th, marking the astronomical first day of spring in the Northern Hemisphere. As the rhododendrons begin to blossom, this season is prime time for outdoor activities and gives the fall foliage in Winston-Salem and across the Carolinas mountains a run for its money. In addition to its vibrancy, spring is known as the best time of the year to sell real estate in U.S. If you have not fixed up your home during quarantine, take notes of these tips to prepare your home for spring in the Carolinas: Clean Gutters and Downspouts Climb a ladder and clear out any debris that may have accumulated in the gutters. This can be done with a trowel or small shovel. Pay close attention to the area around the downspout. If there is clogging, it won’t drain properly, which can cause your gutters to sag. 2. Check for Roof Damage While you are up the ladder, examine and assess any potential damages to the roof. A roof that needs extensive repair can be quite off-putting to prospective buyers, so make sure to keep an eye out for leaks, curled-up shingles, dark streaks, and moss. If you find problems, you may want to have them repaired. Reach out to your insurance rep to see if your homeowner’s policy or home warranty may cover some of the costs. 3. Repaint with Neutral Colors A fresh coat of paint can give your home an instant facelift at a reasonable cost. The best paint colors to pick are neutrals, such as agreeable gray and different shades of white. If you are on a budget or in a time crunch, prioritize the rooms that are painted bright colors, as vivid hues may not appeal to the broader spectrum of buyers. 4. Refresh Your Linens The cheapest way to give your home a new look is to change out pillowcases, duvet covers, and throws across your house. You can play around with geometric patterns and bolder colors against neutral pieces of furniture. 5. Keep Up with Your Lawn Care A well-kept yard can add significant value to your home’s curb appeal. Make sure to mow your lawn, trim back trees and shrubbery, and water your plants and flowers to keep them lively. Are you interested in purchasing a home in Winston-Salem or the surrounding areas? The Sharpe Mortgage Team would love to discuss your financing options and refer you to one of our trusted real estate partners. Call us today !

House hunting is arguably the most enjoyable part of the homebuying process, though it usually requires a great deal of patience until you find a home you love. In a hot real estate market, it also means that when that moment comes, you will need to act fast and be ready to write a check. To make sure you are ready to put in your best offer on the house of your dreams, have a look at these tips.

Spring is the perfect time to explore the natural beauty of Winston-Salem's public gardens! From historic estates to quaint botanical sanctuaries, let’s explore these four gardens that offer a haven for nature enthusiasts, garden lovers, and those seeking a tranquil escape from the bustle of daily life.

Condos and townhouses typically come with an array of benefits that include amenities, proximity to retail areas, and lower maintenance, but there can also be downsides to this type of property. Lenders look at condos and townhomes in a different light, and they often apply stricter standards than those of a conventional home loan. To understand the process of purchasing a condo or townhome, let’s break down the classification of properties. Mortgage lenders classify homes by type, which includes, detached, semi-attached and attached homes. Detached homes are those where the residents share no walls with another dwelling. Semi-detached are those sharing a single wall, whereas attached homes share more than one wall. More shared wall space translates to increased risk as shared constructions are subject to damage from neighboring residents. The enhanced risk often results in a different type of loan approval process and/or higher loan rates. I would be happy to set up a time with you to review the mortgage process together. In addition to type, properties are classified according to ownership of space. A condominium owner has no title to their land, whereas a townhome owner typically owns the ground directly beneath the structure. This is known as a “zero lot line,” a piece of residential real estate in which the structure comes up to, or very near to, the edge of the property line. Though townhouse owners typically look to maximize square footage, some may include small yards or outdoor patios. As a buyer of a condominium unit, you own all the interior walls and balconies, patios, or decks, but none of the exterior building. Condo owners often buy a stake in the community’s facilities and common areas. The Homeowners Association (HOA) board is charged with overseeing the upkeep of these common areas at a fee. In contrast, townhome owners buy the entire unit, including exterior walls and the land on which the unit sits. If you are looking to purchase such properties, it is important to inquire about fees and any applicable restrictions. Some of these fees and limitations relate to HOA dues, assessment fees for community projects, rental caps, and pet policies. If you are ready to purchase a townhome, condo, or single-family home in Winston Salem or the surrounding areas, allow The Sharpe Mortgage Team to be of service. We look forward to working with you to find the perfect home that fits your needs. Call us today to set up an appointment! 

Spring is one of the busiest seasons for real estate, and Winston-Salem is no exception. With its charming historic districts, vibrant arts scene, and strong job market, it's no wonder more buyers are looking to call this city home. If you’re thinking about buying a home this spring, you’ll need a plan to navigate the competitive market. Here are some essential tips to help you find and secure your dream home in Winston-Salem.

Spring is arriving, and Winston-Salem has a full calendar of events to enjoy throughout March. From sports and live theater to concerts and unique seasonal experiences, here are some highlights you won’t want to miss.

The real estate market in North Carolina is red-hot. A shortage of available homes, combined with high demand, has created a strong seller’s market. If you’ve been thinking about listing your home, now is a great time to take advantage of these conditions. Before putting your home on the market, preparation is key. Here are some essential steps to ensure your home is market-ready and positioned to attract top-dollar offers.

Valentine's Day is just around the corner, and what better way to celebrate love than by supporting local businesses in Winston-Salem? From charming boutiques to cozy eateries, this vibrant city has everything you need to create a memorable and heartfelt Valentine's Day experience.