Life In Wake Forest NC.....

If you are currently seeking Foreclosures, Short Sales and REOs in the Wake Forest NC area - I can help!  There is a large variety of homes currently available ranging in price from $78,940.00 - $1,329,900.00.  All styles such as single family homes, estate homes, condos and townhomes are available.

For a free list of Foreclosures/Short Sales and REOs currently available in the Wake Forest, NC area please just send me an email!  This list will be updated weekly and I will be happy to include you on a regular email if you would like. 

My list will provide you with the address of the property, subdivision where property is located, square feet of the property, bedrooms, baths, year built and, of course, the currrent asking price.

Written by:
Leesa L. Finley, Broker, Realtor®
Circa Properties
919.649.6128 - direct and txt msg

All content, including text, original art, photographs and images, is the exclusive property of Circa Properties, and may not be used without the expressed written permission of Circa Properties. All information is believed to be accurate but is not warranted, Copyright 2008.

                         

Whether you are buying or selling Real Estate in Wake Forest NC it just makes sense to use a Realtor® that knows the area!  I live here, work here and play here - I call Wake Forest NC home!  For more information regarding Wake Forest NC be sure to visit my websites:

• Leesa Finley - Homes for Sale in Wake Forest NC, Wake Forest NC schools, restaurants, shops, entertainment and MORE....
• Circa Properties - My company website with information for the entire Raleigh NC area including Cary, Apex, Garner, Franklinton, Youngsville, Holly Springs and MORE....

 

Once again, media has taken the opportunity to use scare tactics with consumers.  While the national housing market may be less than favorable the local Triangle area housing market has continued to consistently stay ahead of the trend as evidenced by an article from Stacey Anfindsen with solid statistics from the Raleigh Regional Association of Realtors®. 

For the N&O article in full please click here.  And, here is the response.......

Responding to the News & Observer:
Stacey Anfindsen Shares More Accurate Depiction of Market and Five Reasons Not to Panic Over Local Home Prices
 
In response to the main headline in the 10/27/08 N&O, I am presenting facts to contradict
the headline, which is yet another attempt to scare local readers by using data from selected national sources. The writer states five reasons; crashing home prices, investor speculation, complex investments, job losses and repeat delinquencies. I will respond to each of these to provide some local perspective.
 
1)  When analyzing our market, I look at data from the counties of Wake, Durham, Orange and Johnston. Within this market, the average closed price of all housing is up 8% and the average closed price of resale housing is up 6%. House price appreciation, which compares the two most recent sales prices of the same house , is an area where the Triangle outperforms the national market. Our current rate of house price appreciation in the Triangle is just over 4%. This rate beats the state (+3.6%) and national rates (-4.5%).
 
2)  The Wake County Revenue Department reported +/- 21,000 closed sales within the past 13 months. Roughly 5% of these sales were purchased by buyers from out of town, a huge difference compared to the 20% rate nationally.
 
3)  It is almost impossible to track what percentage of local purchases were made via the subprime loan mechanism. Per the FHFA mortgage metrics survey for the second quarter of 2008, 17% of all outstanding mortgages in the U.S. are rated as subprime. Therefore it would be hard to argue that a majority of house purchases were made via this mechanism.
 
4)  Job losses are real both nationally and locally. The Raleigh/Cary/Durham MSA did not have a workforce increase comparing 8/08 with 8/07 for the first time since the 8/01 versus 8/00 period.
 
5)  The mortgage metrics survey reveals some additional information regarding the national mortgage market. They surveyed over 30 million outstanding loans in the Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac system and found that 98.6% of these loans were rated as current. They also state that foreclosure proceedings were initiated on 432 homeowners per day during the second quarter, a big difference from the 2,700 per day figure stated in the lead paragraph.  There are currently +/- 14,000 listings within the four county area in TMLS. Roughly 3% of these listings are classified as foreclosure, bank or corporate owned. I have been tracking the residential market within the Triangle for over 20 years. The foreclosure market has always accounted for a very small percentage of activity.    Our current market can be summed up with my version of the good, the bad and the ugly;

The Good

• Third quarter closings were the 6th highest in history
• Current supply of 8 months is lower than national current supply of 11 months
• Average house price appreciation is superior to state and national rates
• Average re-sale sales price +6%, average overall sales price +8%, average list price +2%
• Houses priced correctly have sold in an average of 55 days

The Bad

• Overall inventory grew 7%, making 2 consecutive months of less than 10% growth
• Withdrawn listings increased 2% compared to 9/07

The Ugly

• 29 consecutive months of inventory growth, 20 consecutive months of lower pending sales
• 63% of all price points have an oversupply of housing product
• 9/08 expired listings were 227% higher than 9/07 expired listings  

A survey of Wake County house purchases where the house was purchased and then re-sold within the past 12 months reveals a median percent per gain of 0%. I think that is pretty impressive compared to what is happening in the national market.
 
As we have seen during 2008, our local market is not immune from happenings in the national
market. Our biggest challenges during the fourth quarter of this year and into next year are to grow the workforce and cut down on the number of price points with an oversupply of housing.  

I, for one, am thrilled with the response and also extremely proud of my local association for taking a stance and saying, "Enough!"  It is time that the media stop lumping the entire country together and start realizing that housing markets are LOCAL.  The Raleigh Regional Association of Realtors® has taken a step that I can only hope will be followed by other regional associations. 

Written by:
Leesa L. Finley, Broker, Realtor®
Circa Properties
919.649.6128 - direct and txt msg

All content, including text, original art, photographs and images, is the exclusive property of Circa Properties, and may not be used without the expressed written permission of Circa Properties. All information is believed to be accurate but is not warranted, Copyright 2008.

                         

Whether you are buying or selling Real Estate in Wake Forest NC it just makes sense to use a Realtor® that knows the area!  I live here, work here and play here - I call Wake Forest NC home!  For more information regarding Wake Forest NC be sure to visit my websites:

• Leesa Finley - Homes for Sale in Wake Forest NC, Wake Forest NC schools, restaurants, shops, entertainment and MORE....
• Circa Properties - My company website with information for the entire Raleigh NC area including Cary, Apex, Garner, Franklinton, Youngsville, Holly Springs and MORE....

 

Wow, last week was amazing in Wake Forest, NC!  There was plenty to do, tons of people out enjoying the weather and taking advantage of ALL of the fun things to do.  This week is just as exciting with a little for each to enjoy!  Check it out -

From the Town of Wake Forest website:

Firing Range Training
Tuesday, October 28; Noon - 9:00 p.m.
Police Department Firing Range, behind Flaherty Park Community Center
Residents in the area are advised that the Wake Forest Police Department will conduct firing range training on Tuesday, October 28 from noon until 9:00 p.m. at the police department firing range, located behind the Flaherty Park Community Center. The firing range is utilized by Wake Forest Police officers who require instruction and practice in order to obtain current certification in the use of firearms. This certification is required in order for the officer to fulfill his duties for the Wake Forest Police Department. For more information, visit www.wakeforestnc.gov/residents/police_firingrange.aspx.

 Wake Forest Chamber of Commerce Community Business EXPO
Tuesday, October 28; 3:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
The Factory, 1839 South Main Street
The Wake Forest Area Chamber of Commerce presents Community Business EXPO 2008. The EXPO will showcase more than 95 businesses, civic clubs and community organizations. Learn about the products, services and opportunities they have to offer - at no cost to you. With lots of food and great prizes, it is comparison shopping the whole family will enjoy. Community Business Expo 2008 will be held on Tuesday, October 28 from 3:00-8:00 p.m. at The Factory located at 1839 South Main Street in Wake Forest. The EXPO is free and open to the public. Also, don't miss the special EXPO Seminar, "Increasing Sales in a Sluggish Economy" from 2:30 - 3:30 p.m. at The Mill Room located inside The Factory. The seminar is presented by Deidre Hughey, partner & certified sales magnet with Dancing Elephants. For more details about the EXPO Seminar, visit www.wakeforestchamber.org and click on "What's New." This year's event sponsors include Grand Sponsor Windstream Communications, Media Sponsor The Wake Weekly, and additional sponsors Brassfield Commercial, Coldwell Banker Advantage, Kenosis Designs, LLC, Wake Forest Drug and The News & Observer. For more information, contact Jade Biggio at (919) 556-1519 or jade@wakeforestchamber.org.

World Reknowned Irish Tenor Anthony Kearns in Concert
Tuesday, October 28; 7:00 p.m.
Wake Forest Baptist Church, 107 E. South Ave. 
Wake Forest Baptist Church will kick off its Music and Arts Series with world- renowned Irish Tenor, Anthony Kearns in concert on Tuesday, October 28, at 7:00 pm in the church's sanctuary at 107 East South Avenue, Wake Forest. Anthony Kearns is recognized as Ireland's finest Tenor and is most notably known as being a member of the world famous The Irish Tenors who have performed in the most prestigious concert halls in the country including Carnegie Hall, Madison Square Garden, Boston's Fleet Pavilion, and the Hollywood Bowl, as well as appearing on "The Today Show" and "Live with Regis and Kelly." Anthony was a guest soloist for the Boston Pops and also sang during Good Morning America's funeral coverage for the late President Reagan. Anthony's CD's have sold millions of copies worldwide. You will not want to miss the Anthony Kearns concert on October 28. It is not often that a world-renowned performing artist appears in concert in Wake Forest. The concert is expected to sell out with general seating for 500 people. Tickets are available in the church office located at 118 East South Avenue. Ticket price is $20 general admission. For more information, click here, contact Wake Forest Baptist Church, 556-5141 or visit the church's website www.wakeforestbaptistchurch.org to download a ticket order form. 

North Raleigh Church of Christ Fall Festival
Friday, October 31; 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
North Raleigh Church of Christ, 8701 Falls of Neuse Road, Raleigh,NC 27615 - Corner of I-540 and Falls of Neuse Road
The North Raleigh Church of Christ is sponsoring a free Fall Festival on Friday, October 31 from 6 p.m. until 8 p.m. There will be Hot Dogs, Hayride, Trunk or Treating, Moonbounce, Carnival Games, Dunking Booth, and much more! For more information, contact Geri Bickers at (919) 562-7875.

Wake Forest Farmers' Market
Saturday, November 1; 8:00 a.m. - Noon
Downtown Wake Forest - Municipal Parking Lot
The market offers fresh produce, pasture-raised beef, poultry and pork, free-range eggs, fresh and dried herbs, honey, jams and preserves, plus a whole lot more. The Farmers' Market is open Saturday mornings from 8 a.m. until noon through November 22. For more information, visit www.wakeforestmarket.org.

Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary Craft and Bake Sale
Saturday, November 1; 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Ledford Center Gymnasium
Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary is sponsoring a Craft and Bake Sale on Saturday, November 1 from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m. We will have vendors selling everything from homemade baked goods to holiday crafts. This event serves to assist the student families of the seminary by helping them earn money before the holiday season and provides the community a great opportunity to find unique holiday gifts at affordable prices. For more information, please contact the Women's Program Office at (919) 761-2340.

Operation Sweet Tooth - Donate Your Candy for the Troops
Saturday, November 1; 10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Office of Dr.Edmond Suh, 1711 S. Main St.
Take part in "Operation Sweet Tooth." Bring your Halloween candy in support of our troops. Kids in our area can bring in their Halloween candy and it will be shipped over seas to the troops. In turn, while supplies last, each child will receive a goody bag full of treats from local restaurants and businesses. Kids are also encouraged to bring letters and pictures addressed to the troops. There will also be several activities for the kids, so its should be a lot of fun!

Day at the Farm for Diabetes Music Festial and Classic Car Roundup
Saturday, November 1; Noon - 4:00 p.m.
4349 Gillburg Road, Kittrell
Tickets: Adults $15 in advance, $20 at the door, kids free. Purchase tickets online www.dayatthefarm.com. 

Come check things out in My Back Yard....

Written by:
Leesa L. Finley, Broker, Realtor®
Circa Properties
919.649.6128 - direct and txt msg

All content, including text, original art, photographs and images, is the exclusive property of Circa Properties, and may not be used without the expressed written permission of Circa Properties. All information is believed to be accurate but is not warranted, Copyright 2008.

                         

Whether you are buying or selling Real Estate in Wake Forest NC it just makes sense to use a Realtor® that knows the area!  I live here, work here and play here - I call Wake Forest NC home!  For more information regarding Wake Forest NC be sure to visit my websites:

• Leesa Finley - Homes for Sale in Wake Forest NC, Wake Forest NC schools, restaurants, shops, entertainment and MORE....
• Circa Properties - My company website with information for the entire Raleigh NC area including Cary, Apex, Garner, Franklinton, Youngsville, Holly Springs and MORE....

 

Okay - so this is to all the moms out there that are busy shuttling kids to soccer practice, music lessons, getting dinners ready, organizing the family calendar AND selling Real Estate!  It's a lot of work keeping it all together!

I found this great program the other day and I am really digging it!

Cozi

Cozi is an online:

• Calendar
• Family Journal
• Customizable List organizer
• Mobile Phone Access
• Reminders and Messages
• Photo Collage Screensaver
• AND IT SYNCS WITH MICROSOFT OUTLOOK!

I LOVE IT!  My work calendar resides on my Treo.  I sync my Treo to Outlook everyday.  NOW, with the Cozi toolbar I click just one button and it syncs it to the web!  You can add family member cellphones and emails and contact them directly from COZI for important reminders (pls stop buy milk) or (soccr prac at 6) and it is sent straight away! 

The calendar allows you to color code each family member so you can easily identify who is to be where and when.

When the scrrensaver kicks in you can have random photos from your collection as a collage and it also displays the time and your calendar for the next 2 days.

Check it out - it is a pretty cool tool and it might just help you out a little!

Written by:
Leesa L. Finley, Broker, Realtor®
Circa Properties
919.649.6128 - direct and txt msg

All content, including text, original art, photographs and images, is the exclusive property of Circa Properties, and may not be used without the expressed written permission of Circa Properties. All information is believed to be accurate but is not warranted, Copyright 2008.

                         

Whether you are buying or selling Real Estate in Wake Forest NC it just makes sense to use a Realtor® that knows the area!  I live here, work here and play here - I call Wake Forest NC home!  For more information regarding Wake Forest NC be sure to visit my websites:

• Leesa Finley - Homes for Sale in Wake Forest NC, Wake Forest NC schools, restaurants, shops, entertainment and MORE....
• Circa Properties - My company website with information for the entire Raleigh NC area including Cary, Apex, Garner, Franklinton, Youngsville, Holly Springs and MORE....

 

Great events are everywhere this week in Wake Forest, NC!  There are ton's of things to do with the kids and don't miss the very first Oktoberfest - it will be a true treat!  All week is full of fun, history, food and excitment - hope to see you out and about!

From the Town of Wake Forest website:

North Carolina State Fair - Trip for Senior Adults
Tuesday, October 21 - Deadline to register is October 12
Raleigh, NC
Senior adults are invited to a fun-filled day at the North Carolina State Fair. Space is limited so pregistration is required. The cost is only $10. For more information, call (919) 554-6180.

Candidates' Forum
Tuesday, October 21; 3:30 p.m.
Wake Forest Town Hall
The Wake Forest Area Chamber of Commerce is hosting a Candidates Forum on Tuesday, October 21st at 3:30 p.m. at theWake Forest Town Hall. Candidates for the following positions have been invited to participate: NC State Senate District 15, NC State House District 40 and Wake County Commissioner District 6, all of which represent Wake Forest. Candidates will have five minutes to discuss the issues they feel are most important and the forum will be followed by an informal meet and greet. The following candidates have confirmed their participation at the Forum: Senator Neal Hunt, incumbent State Senate District 15; Chris Mintz, challenger, State Senate District 15; Jan MacKay, challenger, State Senate District 15; Representative Marilyn Avila, incumbent, State House District 40; Stan Morse, challenger, State House District 40; Commissioner Betty Lou Ward, incumbent Wake County Commissioner District 6; Larry Tilley, challenger, Wake County Commissioner District 6. The forum is free and open to the general public. For more information, please contact the Wake Forest Area Chamber of Commerce at (919) 556-1519.

Mural Unveiling and Thank You Ceremony
Tuesday, October 21; 4:30 p.m.
Festival Park, 527 S. White St.
Several volunteers from the art department at Franklin Academy High School under the direction of Art teacher Jamie Burke have completed a mural featuring German and Alpine scenes that will hang over the outdoor stage at Festival Park during the GJCAE OktoberFest on October 25. A formal unveiling and thank you ceremony will be held Tuesday, October 21 at 4:30 p.m.

Firing Range Training
Wednesday, October 22; Noon - 9:00 p.m.
Police Department Firing Range, behind Flaherty Park Community Center
Residents in the area are advised that the Wake Forest Police Department will conduct firing range training on Wednesday, October 22 from noon until 9:00 p.m. at the police department firing range, located behind the Flaherty Park Community Center. The firing range is utilized by Wake Forest Police officers who require instruction and practice in order to obtain current certification in the use of firearms. This certification is required in order for the officer to fulfill his duties for the Wake Forest Police Department. For more information, visit www.wakeforestnc.gov/residents/police_firingrange.aspx.

Special Olympics Fundraiser at the Carolina Ale House
Thursday, October 23; 11:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m.
Carolina Ale House
The Wake Forest Carolina Ale House is teaming with the Wake Forest Police Department to raise money for special Olympics. On Thursday, October 23, 10% of all lunch and dinner proceeds will go to support the Special Olympics of North Carolina Program. Wake Forest Police Off. Scott Graham will also sell t-shirts and hats as well. So, be sure to come out and watch the Hurricanes play Pittsburgh at 7 p.m. and support Special Olympics! For more information, contact Officer Scott Graham at (919) 554-6150.

Halloween Spooktacular
Thursday, October 23; 6:30 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Flaherty Park Community Center
Howl about coming out and Goblin up a Ghoulish good time this Halloween? Children 12 and under will be able to participate in a variety of ghostly games and activities including Hay Rides, Ghoulish Face Painting, Dracula's Haunted Maze, and Goblin for Apples. Costumes are optional. Prizes for "Best Costume Contest" will be awarded. There is no cost for this event! Free pumpkins will be given away while supplies last. For more information, call (919) 554-6180.

An Evening at the Storyteller's Book Store
Thursday, October 23; 6:30 p.m.
Storyteller's Book Store - Downtown Wake Forest
The Friends of the Wake Forest Library will host a program at the Storyteller's Book Store on Thursday, October 23 at 6:30 pm. Come and listen to local author, semi-retired psychiatrist, storyteller, and new bookstore owner Drew Bridges speak about his experiences as a storyteller and a book store owner. Enjoy an exhibit by local artists, browse the book collection, and participate in a fun presentation. The program is free and open to the public. The Storyteller's Book Store is located under the bridge at 100 E. Roosevelt Avenue in Downtown Wake Forest. For more information, contact Drew Bridges at (919) 554-9146, e-mail storystore@nc.rr.com or visit www.storystorewf.com.

Trick or Treat at the Wake Forest Farmers' Market
Saturday, October 25; 8:00 a.m. - Noon
Downtown Wake Forest - Municipal Parking Lot
Wear your costumes and enjoy hot cider and special farmers' treats to celebrate the harvest season. The Farmer's Market offers fresh produce, pasture-raised beef, poultry and pork, free-range eggs, fresh and dried herbs, honey, jams and preserves, plus a whole lot more. The Farmers' Market is open Saturday mornings from 8 a.m. until noon through November 22. For more information, visit www.wakeforestmarket.org.

American Legion Home Dedication
Saturday, October 25; 11:00 a.m.
American Legion, 225 E. Holding Ave.
The newly constructed Walter E. Cole American Legion Post 187 home will be dedicated during a ceremony scheduled for 11:00 a.m. on Saturday October 25, 2008. The building is located at 225 East Holding Avenue - directly across from the Wake Forest Post Office. Parking is limited at the American Legion, however additional perking is available at the Senior Citizen Center next to the Legion building. The ceremony will start at 11 am sharp with a simple dedication announcement followed by an official ribbon-cutting. Refreshments will be served and an opportunity to tour the building follow the ceremony. All Wake Forest and surrounding citizens are encouraged to attend this event.

OktoberFest
Saturday, October 25; Noon - 7:00 p.m.
Festival Park, 527 S. White St.
It's hard to believe that Fall will soon be here, but crisp Autumn air is just around the corner and this year that means OktoberFest in downtown Wake Forest! This first annual event to be held on October 25^th from Noon to 7 p.m. is a fundraiser for the Graham Johnson Cultural Arts Endowment (www.GJCAE.org) and is sure to be great fun for the entire family! The free event will be held at Festival Park in downtown Wake Forest, also the home of the Wake Forest HerbFest. Entertainment will be provided by Harbour Towne Fest Band from Wilmington, NC who will perform on the outdoor stage from 12:30 p.m. until 4:30 p.m. They will lead us through German dances and toasts, while guests enjoy plates of great German food which will be for sale to benefit the Endowment as well as Beer for the adults! At 5 p.m. the event transforms to "Rocktoberfest" as West Street band takes the stage playing favorite rock & pop classics until 7 p.m. Free tastings from North Carolina microbreweries will be available for those over 21 including Red Oak Brewery of Greensboro, Duck Rabbit Brewery of Farmville, Big Boss Brewery from Raleigh,  as well as a number of seasonal brews to sample from sponsor Harris Wholesale. For those who are interested in home brewing, a home brew demonstration is planned as well as a cooking demo on cooking with beer! A number of volunteers from the art department at Franklin Academy High School under the direction of Art teacher Jamie Burke are painting a mural that will hang during the event and the German Club students under the direction of Gabrielle Verhoeven will be providing activities & games for the younger set to entertain as well as educate them on German culture. For more information on the event or the Graham Johnson Cultural Arts Endowment, or to volunteer, please visit the website (www.GJCAE.org) or email ejohnson@medfaxxinc.com.

Fall has officially kicked off in My Back Yard....

Written by:
Leesa L. Finley, Broker, Realtor®
Circa Properties
919.649.6128 - direct and txt msg

All content, including text, original art, photographs and images, is the exclusive property of Circa Properties, and may not be used without the expressed written permission of Circa Properties. All information is believed to be accurate but is not warranted, Copyright 2008.

                         

Whether you are buying or selling Real Estate in Wake Forest NC it just makes sense to use a Realtor® that knows the area!  I live here, work here and play here - I call Wake Forest NC home!  For more information regarding Wake Forest NC be sure to visit my websites:

• Leesa Finley - Homes for Sale in Wake Forest NC, Wake Forest NC schools, restaurants, shops, entertainment and MORE....
• Circa Properties - My company website with information for the entire Raleigh NC area including Cary, Apex, Garner, Franklinton, Youngsville, Holly Springs and MORE....

 

I ran across an article today that actually had me shed a few tears.  While many of you know, historic preservation is very dear to my heart and a subject that I desperately try to educate others on.  Diane Keaton, a Trustee for the National Trust for Historic Preservation, and yes, the Oscar-winning actress wrote an extremely poignant piece for the Los Angeles Times that I wanted to share. 

The article touched on many of the emotions connected with historic properties as well as the commonplace disregard that many have for our historical architecture.  I hope that you are able to savor the finer points of the piece and reflect on your own personal convictions as they pertain to historic gems.

"The Ambassador Hotel lesson

Demolishing such iconic buildings not only destroys history, it wastes resources.

By Diane Keaton
October 13, 2008

Last week, I drove past the 22-acre vacant lot once known as the Ambassador Hotel. As I looked at the rubble of our lost cause, I pulled over, sat back and gave in to a feeling I can only describe as guilt. I thought about my connection to the once-iconic hotel, about why places like it are so difficult to save, and about what it takes to be a better, more effective advocate for historic buildings.

I was just a little girl the first time I visited the Ambassador. My father held my hand and led me down a long hallway before we stopped in front of an ornate facade. I remember Dad's smile as he slowly opened the door to ... the fabulous Cocoanut Grove nightclub! In the magic of a perfect moment, I looked up and saw a parade of dreams etched across the face of the man I loved more than anyone in the world. It was at that moment that something clicked inside my little 9-year-old brain, something that helps me, even today, believe in the ability of the built world to change the trajectory of our lives.

In our battle against the Los Angeles Unified School District's decision to tear down the Ambassador and put up a new school, we made many arguments. We focused on "reuse" as an economic incentive. The LAUSD wasn't buying it. We hired a team of architects to come up with options that would transform Myron Hunt's 350,000-square-foot building into a series of classrooms, administrative offices and low- and moderate-income housing. That didn't fly either. Neither did the argument that the Ambassador was a national landmark, or that six Oscar ceremonies had been hosted there, or that Judy Garland, Frank Sinatra and even Barbra Streisand broke hearts on the stage of the Cocoanut Grove. It didn't matter. Nothing stopped the Ambassador from becoming another little death of no consequence.

Preservation has always been a hard sell in Los Angeles. But maybe in the years ahead it won't be as hard as it used to be, considering several new facts. No. 1, as my Dad would have said, a building represents an enormous investment of energy -- much bigger than we thought when we were fighting to save the Ambassador. No. 2, we now know that construction of new structures alone consumes 40% of the raw materials that enter our economy every year. No. 3, according to the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation, the resources required to manufacture these materials and transport them to a site and assemble them into a structure is the equivalent of consuming 5 to 15 gallons of oil per square foot. No. 4, a Brookings Institution study indicates that the construction of new buildings alone will destroy one-third of our existing building stock by 2030. And finally, No. 5, the energy used to destroy older buildings in addition to the energy used to build new ones could power the entire state of California for 10 years, according to the National Trust for Historic Preservation.

We've treated old buildings like we once treated plastic shopping bags -- we haven't reused them, and when we've finished with them, we've tossed them out. This has to stop. Preservation must stand alongside conservation as an equal force in the sustainability game. More older and historic buildings have to be protected from demolition, not only because it affects our pocketbooks but more important because it threatens our environment. Let's face it, our free ride at the expense of the planet is over.

I'll never understand why architecture is considered a second cousin to painting and film. We've never been married to our romance with architecture. A building, unlike a canvas or a DVD, is a massive work of art with many diverse uses. We watch movies in buildings. We look at paintings on their walls. We pray in cathedrals. We live inside places we call homes. Home gives us faith in the belief of a well-lived life. When we tear down a building, we are wiping out lessons for the future. If we think of it that way, we will begin to understand the emotional impact of wasting the energy and resources used to build it in the first place.

As for me, I'm keeping the door to the Cocoanut Grove open. I'm still holding on to my father's hand and the memory that grew to inspire my dream of a golden -- now green -- future among structures that stand as invitations to a past we can only imagine by being in their presence.

Diane Keaton is an Oscar-winning actress. She is a former board member of the Los Angeles Conservancy and is currently a trustee of the National Trust for Historic Preservation."

Thank you for taking the time to read this opinion piece and I hope that you take away from it a new found love for our historic architecture, history preservation and sustainability.

As always, if you would like more information regarding Historic Preservation please visit What's YOUR Circa?

Written by:
Leesa L. Finley, Broker, Realtor®
Circa Properties
919.649.6128 - direct and txt msg

All content, including text, original art, photographs and images, is the exclusive property of Circa Properties, and may not be used without the expressed written permission of Circa Properties. All information is believed to be accurate but is not warranted, Copyright 2008.

Learn more about Wake County, Johnston County, Granville County, and Franklin County, North Carolina Real Estate which includes Raleigh, Cary, Wake Forest, Youngsville, Franklinton, Apex, Holly Springs, Garner, Fuquay Varina, Creedmoor, Clayton and more!

                         

Whether you are buying or selling Real Estate in Wake Forest NC it just makes sense to use a Realtor® that knows the area!  I live here, work here and play here - I call Wake Forest NC home!  For more information regarding Wake Forest NC be sure to visit my websites:

• Leesa Finley - Homes for Sale in Wake Forest NC, Wake Forest NC schools, restaurants, shops, entertainment and MORE....
• Circa Properties - My company website with information for the entire Raleigh NC area including Cary, Apex, Garner, Franklinton, Youngsville, Holly Springs and MORE....

 

Wake Forest NC is a great place to be on Friday nights with the local, high school football games!  Cheer your home team, join in the frenzy as the cheerleaders ramp up the excitement and be sure to wear your local team fleece!  The crisp fall area and a high school football game......what a way to spend a Friday night!

What about the next morning though if you get injured during the game or experiencing pain?  Where do you go?  Do you have to wait the entire weekend before seeking treatment?  NO!

From 8:00am - 11:00am each Saturday after the Friday night game you can visit a clinic at the Orthopaedic Specialists of North Carolina's (OSNC) Wake Forest office!  The clinic is open to all high school, college and professional athletes.  Dr. Mark W. Galland, a board certified orthopaedic surgeon that specializes in sports medicine, will administer personal attention to those in need after a Friday night game.  While the most frequent visitors are football players from a Friday night game any athlete may visit the clinic.  Some of the most common injuries Dr. Galland attends to are knee, schoulder, foot, ankle and hand just to name a few.

If an athlete is under 18 years of age the clinic requires a note of parental consent to receive treatment.  Appointments are not required and patients are only billed their standard co-pay for the visit.  Should a patient be unisured Dr. Galland will treat free of charge.

The Wake Forest Office is located at:

847 Wake Forest Business Park
Suite 202
Wake Forest, NC 27587
(919) 562-9410

Just keeping the athletes in top condition in My Back Yard....

Written by:
Leesa L. Finley, Broker, Realtor®
Circa Properties
919.649.6128 - direct and txt msg

All content, including text, original art, photographs and images, is the exclusive property of Circa Properties, and may not be used without the expressed written permission of Circa Properties. All information is believed to be accurate but is not warranted, Copyright 2008.

                         

Whether you are buying or selling Real Estate in Wake Forest NC it just makes sense to use a Realtor® that knows the area!  I live here, work here and play here - I call Wake Forest NC home!  For more information regarding Wake Forest NC be sure to visit my websites:

• Leesa Finley - Homes for Sale in Wake Forest NC, Wake Forest NC schools, restaurants, shops, entertainment and MORE....
• Circa Properties - My company website with information for the entire Raleigh NC area including Cary, Apex, Garner, Franklinton, Youngsville, Holly Springs and MORE....

 

The Cotton Company in Historic Downtown Wake Forest features an artist each month.  This month's artist is:

Ginger Meek Allen

Ginger's work on the canvas is remarkable and is done in both Oil and Watercolor. 

Ginger is also very well known in the area for her Metalwork.  From sculptures to jewelry Ginger's pieces are truly one-of-a-kind and masterfully crafted. 

In Ginger's OWN words:

There is a place where art meets science,
form meets function, and
human experience meets spiritual truth.
My work often takes me there.

There I learned that it is indeed appropriate
to deliberately incorporate
light and movement and scale
into the functions of daily life --
be it adornment or breakfast.

I create utensils, vessels and  jewelry
using a mix of standard jeweler's techniques
and traditional smithing.
My work is both contemporary and organic;
polished, but still distinctly handmade.

As you explore the work from my bench,
may you, too, be blessed
by the play of art in your life.     

                --ginger meek allen

Be sure to stop by The Cotton Company this month to view some of Ginger Meek Allen's work.  This artisan is gifted beyond compare and her work will evoke emotion beyond any other.

Written by:
Leesa L. Finley, Broker, Realtor®
Circa Properties
919.649.6128 - direct and txt msg

All content, including text, original art, photographs and images, is the exclusive property of Circa Properties, and may not be used without the expressed written permission of Circa Properties. All information is believed to be accurate but is not warranted, Copyright 2008.

                         

Whether you are buying or selling Real Estate in Wake Forest NC it just makes sense to use a Realtor® that knows the area!  I live here, work here and play here - I call Wake Forest NC home!  For more information regarding Wake Forest NC be sure to visit my websites:

• Leesa Finley - Homes for Sale in Wake Forest NC, Wake Forest NC schools, restaurants, shops, entertainment and MORE....
• Circa Properties - My company website with information for the entire Raleigh NC area including Cary, Apex, Garner, Franklinton, Youngsville, Holly Springs and MORE....

 

River Mill is one of the oldest manufacturing mills in North Carolina and has seen many transitions in it's lifetime which has spanned the decades!  From the first recorded use in 1855 this mill has had many uses including granite mill, powder making factory during the Revolutionary War, paper mill, cotton mill and lastly an incredible restoration in the mid-80s turning the old mill into condos.

This 23 acre site bounded by the Neuse River and Falls Lake is rich in wildlife, tranquility, history and natural beauty.  The backdrop of the dam and falls provides natural beauty beyond compare.  There are three separate buildings that comprise River Mill; The Annex, The Mill and The Woods.  Opportunities are rare to own a condo within these historic buildings.  It would seem the time is here for a select few!

Two units currently available are:

1500 River Mill Drive - Unit 112 - 1020 sq ft / 2bd and 2.5bt.  - circa 1854 - Enclosed patio with koi pond, stone walls, circular staircase and original hardwood floors.  $194,900.00

1500 River Mill Drive - Unit 309 - 1190 sq ft / 3bd and 2bt - circa 1854 -  Granite walls, maple floors, stainless steel appliances, circular staircase and one of the largest units.  $194,900.00

River Mill is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.  Just a few of the amenities offered are shared flower and herb gardens, outdoor grills, gazebo, horseshoes, basketball goal, and plenty of parking!

For more information regarding these rare oppotunities within River Mill please feel free to call or email me - I would be delighted to help!

For more information on historic properties please be sure to visit What's YOUR Circa

Written by:
Leesa L. Finley, Broker, Realtor®
Circa Properties
919.649.6128 - direct and txt msg

All content, including text, original art, photographs and images, is the exclusive property of Circa Properties, and may not be used without the expressed written permission of Circa Properties. All information is believed to be accurate but is not warranted, Copyright 2008.

                         

Whether you are buying or selling Real Estate in Wake Forest NC it just makes sense to use a Realtor® that knows the area!  I live here, work here and play here - I call Wake Forest NC home!  For more information regarding Wake Forest NC be sure to visit my websites:

• Leesa Finley - Homes for Sale in Wake Forest NC, Wake Forest NC schools, restaurants, shops, entertainment and MORE....
• Circa Properties - My company website with information for the entire Raleigh NC area including Cary, Apex, Garner, Franklinton, Youngsville, Holly Springs and MORE....