Tuesday, February 18, 2014

Is Now a Good Time to Buy in Cary?

Is Now a Good Time to Buy in Cary?

Timing the Market - Some Say It's Too Late!

I hear this question often. The easy answer is Yes! But the best answer is, it depends. It depends on the buyers situation; how long they plan to live in the home, their price point, their ability to make improvements and other factors.

But as a general rule, looking only at historical data and considering the current state of the economy, Gary Keller (Keller Williams Founder and CEO) said it best this week #kwfr, "Buyers are going to look at rising interest rates and prices and think that there will be a better time to buy. The truth is, if they could time the market, they would have already bought.”

Why does he feel so strongly about this? Here is a pictograph that explains his reasoning. Even at 4% interest with current home prices, it already costs more to own a home now than it did in 1989. As rates and prices go up, it will become less affordable.


This is not to say that buyers have missed their opportunity already. There are still deals to be had. But, this is where "it depends" really comes into play. Buyer's need to evaluate all their options and work with a professional Realtor who will look out for their best interest, not just be out for a sale.

Finding the right home, at the right price and in the right condition is critical. Negotiating price, terms and conditions is key. Understanding your long term commitment and costs in home ownership is vital.

At the Don Johnson Real Estate Team, we work very closely with our home buyer clients to ensure that they are making the right move. We welcome the opportunity to meet with you to discuss your situation and how to approach the current local real estate market.

See All Cary Homes for Sale

Thursday, February 13, 2014

Renaissance at Regency Cary

Homes for sale Renaissance Park and Renaissance at Regency Cary



On the East side of Cary nestled in the trees and surrounded by green belts is this luxury communities of Regency Park and Renaissance at Regency. 

The luxury communities of Regency Park all have great amenities including swimming pools and tennis courts. There is a lake area with an amphitheater, walking, cycling and hiking trails and with wooded lots and lots of trees, this is truly a beautiful place to live.

Easy access and commute time to Raleigh, Research Triangle Park, Raleigh Durham International Airport and the convenience of shopping in the area makes the Renaissance at Regency a great place to live in.
For an appointment to see Renaissance at Regency Homes, please give me a call 
Don Johnson 919-714-1571


Tuesday, February 11, 2014

Lochmere Listing Coming Soon - 306 Crickentree Dr

Lochmere Listing Coming Soon

306 Crickentree Dr, Cary NC 27518




WOW! Owners have decided to lower the price prior to making this gorgeous home an active listing. The new price is $369,900! This won't last long!

This beautiful 3 bedroom, 2.5 bath features 2,784 square feet of living space and is located in the Highlands West area of Lochmere, one of Cary's premier neighborhoods.

Lochmere has always been one of Cary's most desirable neighborhoods. Residents who live here certainly understand why. With its convenient location to US1, downtown Raleigh and RTP along with a nearby Hospital and Medical Centers, Lochmere has been a favorite for those seeking a nice lifestyle in a well, manicured neighborhood with excellent amenities.

CONTACT US if you would like more information about this home.

Wednesday, February 5, 2014

Why Work with a Buyer's Agent?

Why Work with a Buyer's Agent?

Buyer Services are always FREE!

The typical real estate transaction involves at least two dozen separate individuals – insurance agents, mortgage brokers, underwriters, inspectors, appraisers, escrow officers, buyer’s agents, seller’s agents, bankers, title researchers, and a number of other individuals whose actions and decisions have to be orchestrated in order to perform in harmony and get a home sale closed.

It is the responsibility of your real estate agent to expertly coordinate all the professionals involved in your home purchase and to act as the advocate for YOU and YOUR INTERESTS throughout.

A Buyer’s Agent:

1. Educates you about your market.
2. Analyzes your wants and needs.
3. Guides you to homes that fit your criteria.
4. Coordinates the work of other needed professionals.
5. Negotiates on your behalf.
6. Checks and double-checks paperwork and deadlines.
7. Solves any problems that may arise.

At the Don Johnson Real Estate Team, our dedicated Buyer SpecialistTracy Dowling, is ready to serve you. She has many years of real estate experience helping buyers. Tracy truly enjoys her job and service is her number one priority. Contact Us today to set up a consultation or email Tracy at Tracy@DonJohnsonRealty.com.

Interviewing the right agent for the job is important. Not all agents are equal. Qualifications are important. However, finding a solid, professional agent means getting beyond the resume and into what makes an agent effective. Personality is also important as you will be having a very close working relationship. Here are eight important questions to ask an agent you are interviewing. Contact Tracy, she will be happy to answer these questions and more!

1. Why did you become a real estate agent?
2. Why should I work with you?
3. What do you do better than other real estate agents?
4. What process will you use to help me find the right home for my particular wants and needs?
5. What are the most common things that go wrong in a transaction and how would you handle them?
6. What are some mistakes that you think people make when buying their first home?
7. What other professionals do you suggest we work with and what are their credentials?
8. Can you provide me with references or testimonials from past clients?

Keep in mind, Buyer Services are always FREE. The seller pays Realtor fees. If you are considering buying a home, it's always a good idea to use the services of a Buyer's Agent, it doesn't cost you anything and you will be sure that your best interests are at heart. Remember, the Listing Agent was hired by the seller to look out for their best interest. It's not to say that dual agency - meaning the Listing Agent represents both the buyer and the seller - can't work. But why leave any room for misinterpretation or misunderstanding? The seller has already agreed on a selling fee, so whether that fee goes to one Agent or is split by two Agents, it doesn't save you any money.

If we can answer any questions for you about the home buying process, give us a call. We are here to help.

Tuesday, January 28, 2014

Top 3 Mistakes Made by Home Sellers!

Top 3 Mistakes Made by Home Sellers!

And other reasons why homes don't sell.

Sometimes a small upfront investment of some cash, time and a little elbow grease can yield a big return when selling your home. The vast majority of buyers want move in ready homes - unless they are getting a great deal below market value. Most buyers are easily turned off by odors, can't see past clutter and don't want to take on costly repairs. If you want top dollar for your home, you need to get it show stopping ready.  Many move in ready homes in today's market are receiving multiple offers!

You also want to make your home available for buyers to see. Many buyers are working and their only free time to see homes are evenings and weekends. Even if it's inconvenient to you, making time for a buyer will ensure they don't just move on the the next home that is available to see.

If you do get a "low-ball" offer, take time to think it through and discuss your counter offer with your agent. Many times buyers will throw out an offer to see if it will stick. Don't get offended. Work with your agent to present your counter offer and back it up with facts.

The Don Johnson Real Estate Team specializes in getting homes show ready and guiding our home selling clients through the process. Whether your homes needs major upgrades or just some simple paint and design style, we can help. Don is a licensed General Contractor and has an in-house professional staging consultant on his team. Our Team can help you Improve to Move and get top dollar for your home fast.

Take a look at the Seller Mistakes.


Data provided by ActiveRain.com. ActiveRain is an online community of real estate professionals who exchange best practices, write real estate blogs, and get free education from the industry and their peers.

Thursday, January 23, 2014

Coming Soon - 6803 Grimaldi Ct in Raleigh, NC

Coming Soon - 6803 Grimaldi Ct in Raleigh, NC

Sought After Berkeley Square Town Homes

Space of single family home without the maintenance! Beautiful ~2,400 square foot custom town home Midtown area of North Raleigh with a nice size outdoor area. Convenient to all areas of the triangle and downtown Raleigh.

First floor master suite with large walk in closets.  Huge secondary bedrooms with loft/office/theater area upstairs.

Designer kitchen features GE stainless steel appliance, granite counter tops, and tumble tile back splash with custom deco inlays.

Rich millwork w/10' ceilings & hardwood floors downstairs. Back deck area is an oasis with pergola and retaining wall with gardening areas. Sun room has thermal glass enclosure for year round enjoyment.

Contact Us for more information about this amazing town home.

Monday, January 20, 2014

SAS Ranks As One of the Best Places to Work

SAS Ranks As One of the Best Places to Work

Cary Based SAS #2 on Fortune Magazine's List

It's not the first time SAS has been recognized as one of the best places to work in the U.S. In fact, SAS has made the list every year since 1998 when Fortune started their ratings.

Locals clamor for a shot at working for this employee centered company. Most people who get the opportunity to work there, rarely ever leave either. Company turnover is about 3% compared to an industry average of about 15%. That alone says a lot about a company. Yes, the perks and benefits and nice salaries are attractive, but to many people I know who work there, it's the sense of appreciation and autonomy to do your job well that is the real attraction.

A few other local companies made the cut too. NetApp, California-based company that is expanding its Research Triangle Park campus, ranked sixth in the new Fortune ratings. Novo Nordisk, which employs more than 500 at its manufacturing plant in Clayton, ranked 48th.

Google, to no surprise, was number one on the list again. See the Full List Here

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