Looking for Lakefront Homes in NC? Start With These Lake Communities
February 16, 2026
Why Lake Living Works in North Carolina North Carolina’s geography gives it a practical advantage. A map of North Carolina shows water spread across the state rather than concentrated in one area. As a result, lake communities in North Carolina exist in mountain settings, near growing metro areas, and in quieter rural pockets—allowing buyers to cho...
Emma CarpenterFinding a Home Near Duke Hospital
February 09, 2026
Start With One Question: How Often Will You Be at the Hospital? Before comparing listings or neighborhoods, it helps to get specific about your day-to-day reality. Are you commuting daily on a fixed schedule?Are your hours unpredictable or overnight?Will you be going back and forth multiple times a day?Is quiet more important than proximity? Your a...
Emma CarpenterLiving in North Carolina vs. South Carolina: What Life Really Looks Like in Each State
February 02, 2026
A Day in the Life: North Carolina Living in North Carolina often means variety baked into your routine. A typical weekend might include a Saturday morning farmers market in a walkable downtown, an afternoon hike at a nearby state park, and dinner at a locally owned restaurant that feels more neighborhood staple than tourist stop. The state’s geogra...
Emma CarpenterTips for Showing Your House
September 23, 2025
Make a Lasting First Impression Before buyers ever step foot inside, they’re forming opinions. Keep the front entry clear, clean, and welcoming. Sweep walkways, trim hedges, and add a fresh doormat or seasonal wreath. If showing in the evening, make sure your porch light works—and that the bulb gives off a warm, inviting glow. Let the Light In Natu...
Emma CarpenterA Local's Guide of Things to Do in Raleigh, NC
September 09, 2025
For the Nature-Lover: The Green Heart of the City Raleigh is known as the "City of Oaks," and it doesn’t take long to see why. Start with Umstead State Park, a sprawling 5,000-acre oasis between Raleigh and Durham. With over 20 miles of hiking and biking trails, canoe rentals, and picnic areas, it’s a great place to unplug. Looking for something cl...
Emma CarpenterBest Places to Live Around RTP: A Guide for Professionals Moving to the Triangle
September 02, 2025
Cary: Suburban Comfort and Convenience Cary is a popular choice for its mix of excellent schools, parks, and safe neighborhoods. It strikes a nice balance for those who want suburban comfort without straying too far from RTP. With a range of housing—from townhomes to larger family homes—and plenty of shopping and dining options, Cary makes daily li...
Emma CarpenterWhat Is a Due Diligence Fee?
August 26, 2025
What is Due Diligence? In North Carolina, due diligence is the period of time after a home goes under contract when the buyer has the opportunity to fully investigate the property. During this window, the buyer can schedule inspections, review title work, confirm financing, and essentially do everything needed to make sure the house is the right fi...
Emma CarpenterBest Restaurants in Durham in 2025
August 19, 2025
Quick Bites & Casual Favorites Monuts – A must-visit for breakfast or brunch. Known for creative donuts, hearty breakfast sandwiches, and great coffee. It's a favorite stop for many of our agents. Joe Van Gogh – More than just coffee—this local roaster offers some of the best espresso drinks in town. Multiple locations make it an easy go-to. The Lo...
Emma Carpenter