Morehead City Real Estate & Things to do!

Bug Me, Bother me, Drive me CRAZY.... It's Okay!

Amy Hahn, REALTOR®, Crystal Coast, NC (Pine Knoll Shores Realty) — Wed, 13 Mar 2013 08:38:23 -0700

Bug Me, Bother Me, Drive me CRAZY..... It's Okay!

Recently, I received a call from a fellow REALTOR® because my client had called him to see property on a Sunday afternoon. Fortunately, she told him up front that I was her REALTOR®, but she didn't want to bother me on a Sunday afternoon... how sweet of her. Apparently, she thought it was acceptable to bother him instead. He didn't show her the property, but advised her to call her agent, which she did the following Monday.

I explained agency to her again and also explained to her that had she not warned him upfront that I was her agent and he had shown her the property, she fell in love with the property, and then made an offer on the property, that he may have expected the full commission at closing due to *procuring cause.

Would this other agent fight for his commission? Maybe, maybe not. If he does fight, will he win? Maybe, maybe not. It depends on many factors and each case of procuring cause taken to Arbitration is different.

Last week, this happened again, only in reverse. Another agent in my office received a call for a property showing. She met the potential buyer on a Sunday afternoon, showed him property after explaining agency and having him sign "Working With Real Estate Agents". The following day, she received an offer from another agent on the property from the same buyer. When his agent asked him why he had called someone else to see the property, his answer was, "I didn't want to bother you on a Sunday afternoon". Not sure how this one will turn out, but it could get "sticky".

If I am your buyer's agent, call me. Bug Me, Bother me, Drive me CRAZY.... It's Okay! As your agent, It's my job. I turn my phone off while I am sleeping, when I am at church and when I am having dinner with my family, so you will not bother me! I will always return your call, email or text ASAP. If I plan to be out of town or unavailable for any extended period of time, I will give you notice and you will know who to call (usually my Broker in Charge), should you need anything. And for the record...... I love my job, and most Sunday afternoons, I will be more than happy to show you the home of your dreams! Do not bother that other agent and expect them to work for free.

According to NC Real Estate Commission:

The term *"procuring cause," as used in describing a broker's activity entitling him or her to a commission, refers to: a cause originating a series of events that, without break in their continuity, result in the accomplishment of the prime objective for which the broker was employed, usually to procure a purchaser ready, willing and able to buy the property on the owner's terms. In order for a broker's efforts to be the procuring or effective cause of a sale, it must be established that the broker's activity was the originating cause that not only started negotiations for the transaction, but also ultimately resulted in its consummation; the broker's activity must be the primary foundation upon which the negotiations were begun and the predominant factor in bringing about the transaction.

For more information about Procurring Cause, Agency and other NC Real Estate Law, visit www.ncrec.org.

Amy Hahn

Pine Knoll Shores Realty

252-723-7972 * 252-727-5000 * 800-605-8598

amyhahnnc@gmail.com

www.pineknollshoresrealty.com

For all of your real estate needs on the Crystal Coast of North Carolina

2013 North Carolina Statewide Tornado Drill

Amy Hahn, REALTOR®, Crystal Coast, NC (Pine Knoll Shores Realty) — Wed, 06 Mar 2013 02:57:50 -0800

2013 North Carolina Statewide Tornado Drill

North Carolina’s annual statewide tornado drill for 2013 takes place today, March 6, at 9:30 AM. Schools, businesses and families across North Carolina are strongly encouraged to participate in the statewide tornado drill.

While this may seem like a fun adventure for younger children who get to miss class for a few minutes, tornado drills are very important for everyone to participate in. As we all know, tornados can be very destructive and dangerous. Many lives and homes are taken each year, and having a plan can save you and your loved ones.

Unfortunately, tornadoes do not offer a whole lot of warning, so knowing what to do and practicing your plan is critical. Experts recommend that in the event of a tornado, head to an interior room of your home or business, if possible, a room with no windows or exterior walls.

If you have pets, remember to include them in your drill. During severe thunderstorms and hurricanes with Tornado Watches, my family prepares the house by closing every door. This keeps the cats and the dog in a smaller area of the house, making it easier to “catch” them in the event of an emergency. Each adult grabs two cats, Tanner grabs a blanket and calls the dog, and we all hit the guest bathroom. The guest bathroom is stocked with an emergency kit which includes first aid, weather radio, flashlight and batteries and drinking water. This may seem silly to some, but having grown up in North Alabama where tornados are all too common, and living in coastal areas for 18 years of Hurricanes & tropical storms, I take these things very seriously. I have seen what they can do.

If you live in North Carolina, please participate in the 2013 Statewide Annual Tornado Drill and be sure that your family is prepared. For more information about tornado drills and other events for North Carolina and other states, and how to be prepared, visit http://www.nws.noaa.gov/om/severeweather/severewxcal.shtml.

Please note that in the event of actual severe weather occurring this morning, the NC Statewide Tornado Drill will be postponed until Friday, March 8^th, 2013 at 9:30 am.

Amy Hahn

Pine Knoll Shores Realty

252-723-7972 * 252-727-5000 * 800-605-8598

amyhahnnc@gmail.com

www.pineknollshoresrealty.com

For all of your real estate needs on the Crystal Coast of North Carolina

Get Your Home Ready to Sell in 30 Days!

Amy Hahn, REALTOR®, Crystal Coast, NC (Pine Knoll Shores Realty) — Tue, 14 Aug 2012 03:52:15 -0700

Get Your Home Ready to Sell in 30 Days!

If you are like me, you are busy, busy, busy! There are many chores that I "ignore" when time is short, but if I were planning to sell my home, I'd need to tackle them and make my house sparkle!

If you are considering selling your home, go ahead and start working on the list below. In just 30 days, your home will SHINE! Don't forget to continue with your everyday chores too! You will want your home to be "Show Ready" 24/7!

1. Clean the ceiling fan blades (all of them).

2. Use a damp cloth and wipe down all baseboards. I have heard that following with a fabric softener helps reduce dust build up in the future, but have never tried it myself.

3. Clean out the refrigerator! Be brutal and throw away all those condiments that you can't even remember buying or using! Don't forget to wipe down the outside too, dust the top and if you don't have it on your regular maintenance list.... Vacuum the coils!

4. Clean out the cabinets and drawers in the kitchen. Follow by wiping down the doors and pulls.

5. Pressure Wash the drive and walkways. Clean the siding if necessary, being careful with wood or painted surfaces to avoid chipping or splintering.

6. Pull weeds from gardens, and plant a few colorful flowers near front door.

7. Repair any nail holes or damage to walls and touch up the paint.

8. Wipe down all door knobs and other hardware and polish if necessary.

9. Clean every window.... Inside & out!

10. Clean and organize bathroom cabinets and drawers.

11. Purge the pantry and clean, organize and show potential buyers just how much space is there!

12. Tackle the "honey do" list and fix all those small repairs. You know the ones, the loose door pull, the leaning mailbox, the creaky door hinge, etc.

13. Replace burnt out light bulbs and clean the fixtures while you're at it.

14. As annoying as it is..... clean the grout of your tile floors (and any other tiled surface).

15. Clean the microwave and the oven!

16. Take down curtains and drapes, clean them, and decide whether or not they should be re-hung! Natural light can be a BIG selling point!

17. Purge and de-clutter! If you just can't bring yourself to dispose of ANYTHING.... box it up and store it!

18. Clean and organize your closets! If you haven't worn it in 2 years, chances are, you will never wear it! Get rid of it by donating to a great cause in your area. Then, organize by length and color and it will look amazing! Box up your out of season shoes and clothing and show those buyers just how "roomy" that closet is!

19. Dust! And I mean EVERYTHING! The lamps, the picture frames, the ugly artificial plants & flowers.... EVERYTHING!

20. Vacuum every inch of every room. Under the beds, the sofas, behind the bookshelves, the corners of the ceiling, the air vents (and change the air filters)..... EVERY INCH!

21. Clean the garage. Take everything out (I know it's a big job), sweep, pressure wash the floors, repaint the floor if needed & possible, and then organize as you put the items back. Again, I want you to purge! Do you really need that broken leaf blower or those empty paint cans? Just do it.... It will feel Great!

22. If you store things in the attic or basement, you will need to clean and purge those areas too! Yep, buyers will look in your attic and if they choose to buy the home, a home inspector will appreciate clean and easy access!

23. Clean every sink, tub and toilet and re-caulk if needed.

24. Sweep and clean the patio or deck! If needed, clean any outdoor furniture. Add a couple of new cushions to the outdoor living area or maybe a few potted plants.

25. Clean the gutters, and the roof. Huge piles of pine straw or leaves scream "High Maintenance". If you do not feel comfortable, hire someone to tackle the roof for you..... It can be a dangerous job!

26. Wash all of your throw rugs, bedding, pillow covers, blankets, etc. It will help the home smell and look "fresh".

27. Clean the yard! Remove any fallen limbs or trash. Trim shrubs and branches from walkways and keep a clean path around the home. Keep the lawn mowed and raked and looking fabulous. Remember, first impressions are important!

28. I know you live in the home, but try to make it a little less "personal". If you have hundreds of family photos hanging around (I have them too), pack some up. The doll collection that has taken over the guest room, box that up too. By de-personalizing the home, buyers find it easier to imagine the house with their "stuff" in it.

29. Buy a laundry basket or bin for each family member and place in the laundry room or a closet for everyday pickup. When your REALTOR® calls you to schedule a showing, each family member grabs their basket/bin and runs around filling it with items that need to be put away. Then deliver the items to where they belong.

30. On this day, I want you to rest! Call your REALTOR®, let them know you want to sell your home and schedule a meeting. Tell them to go ahead and bring their camera, because the house is READY!

Amy Hahn

Pine Knoll Shores Realty

252-723-7972 * 252-727-5000 * 800-605-8598

amyhahnnc@gmail.com

www.pineknollshoresrealty.com

For all of your real estate needs on the Crystal Coast of North Carolina

Having an Estate Sale

Amy Hahn, REALTOR®, Crystal Coast, NC (Pine Knoll Shores Realty) — Wed, 05 Dec 2012 07:47:33 -0800

Having an Estate Sale

Sadly, many homeowners pass away or are forced to enter into assisted living, leaving a house full of "stuff" accumulated over a lifetime. Sometimes the owner themselves have to handle getting rid of everything, and often times, the children or another family member must take care of the items.

An estate sale may just be the answer.

Sure, you can hold the estate sale yourself, but you should know ahead of time, that it is not an easy task. The most important thing to remember is that, while you may think you can handle it, many times, you will find yourself reminiscing over an item or that the sentimental attachment makes it impossible for you to pass it on to someone else. It can be a very emotional experience. You should also know that it is hard work including a lot of dust, dirt and manual labor. The estate sale must be marketed properly. Every item that is for sale, must be clearly priced and priced appropriately. Do you know how much carnival glass pieces go for or maybe that antique coffee mill? A professional Estate Sale Team knows. A professional Estate Sale Team knows a lot of antique dealers, collectors, and people that just like to buy stuff. Those people will receive a personal invitation to the sale. They know how to set up the estate sale, they know how to market the sale, they know the best times and days to have an estate sale, and they know how to handle the items so you do not have to.

Many of the Estate Sale Professionals in Carteret County will donate all un-sold items & furnishings to local charities of your choice, and they will handle pick-up or delivery. You may choose to keep any items that are left. Make sure you are all clear about what happens to the leftovers. Many Estate Sale Professionals will also offer cleaning up the home after the house has been emptied. Commission varies based on the services provided, but the typical Estate Sale Professional around here charges anywhere from 25 - 40% of total sales. Some may charge a set fee up front.

A contract should always be provided and all parties should agree to the contract before any work is done. Please, READ and understand the entire contract before signing. You may wish to have a friend or other family member with you for emotional support during the signing of the contract.

Make sure you ask a lot of questions about the sale. Where do they advertise, how do they prepare? Do they clean each item prior to the sale? Do they bring in display tables for easy viewing? How many people will be working at the sale and will there be security available? Would they be willing to host a "Pre-sale" for neighbors and friends to have first dibs on items? DO NOT be afraid to ask questions!

Once you decide to hire a professional to handle the Estate Sale for you, there are still a few things that you, the owner or representative, should do to prepare:

Remove any items that you wish to keep from the house if at all possible. Some buyers will get frustrated if they fall in love with an item that can't be purchased. If removal of the items is not possible, place them in a room that can be closed off or locked! At the very least, have them clearly marked "NOT FOR SALE".
Do not throw anything away, unless it is obviously trash. People will buy just about anything, and sometimes, what appears to be junk is a valuable item. Dishes, clothes, magazines, cooking utensils and cookware... You name it, someone will want it.
Plan to be away from the property during the sale. It can be very emotional and may even be heartbreaking to see people rummaging through personal belongings, and negotiating prices on items that seem "priceless" to you.
Do a little research on your own to give yourself an idea of value on the items being sold. A great place to find out about current prices on items is Ebay. Make sure you do not look at asking prices or starting bids, but the actual price the item sold for. Remember too that, just because an item sold on Ebay, doesn't mean it will sell in your area. Some items require a "special" person or collector to purchase them.
To avoid disappointment, be prepared for items to go for much less than asking price during the latter part of the sale.
Try to be positive throughout the entire process (I know, easier said than done) and feel good knowing that the items are being handled properly with care, and are going to good homes.

For more information about Estate Sales or the names and numbers of Estate Sale Professionals in Carteret County, feel free to give me a call.

Amy Hahn

Pine Knoll Shores Realty

252-723-7972 * 252-727-5000 * 800-605-8598

amyhahnnc@gmail.com

www.pineknollshoresrealty.com

For all of your real estate needs on the Crystal Coast of North Carolina

Sound Front Residential & Commercial Property on the Crystal Coast

Amy Hahn, REALTOR®, Crystal Coast, NC (Pine Knoll Shores Realty) — Tue, 04 Dec 2012 12:50:31 -0800

Price Reduced $100,000 on this Fabulous, Sound Front Home in Salter Path, North Carolina 28575

Maybe you've been dreaming of starting your very own Coastal Business, or maybe you've been dreaming about Living on an Island. You can have both with this Salter Path Property.... Zoned for Residential or Commercial.

This beautifully landscaped home has 3 bedrooms - 2 baths , see-through fireplace, large deck that overlooks Bogue Sound and has 200' on the sound. The views are amazing and the location is perfect for anyone who wishes to be close to the beach, marinas, fishing, boating, water sports, and some of the best & freshest seafood on the East Coast! Located in the center of Bogue Banks Island, Salter Path is convenient to shopping, restaurants, medical facilities, and schools.

124 Headen Lane

Salter Path, North Carolina 28575

$595,000

Amy Hahn

Pine Knoll Shores Realty

252-723-7972 * 252-727-5000 * 800-605-8598

amyhahnnc@gmail.com

www.pineknollshoresrealty.com

For all of your real estate needs on the Crystal Coast of North Carolina

Pine Knoll Shores Turkey Trot

Amy Hahn, REALTOR®, Crystal Coast, NC (Pine Knoll Shores Realty) — Thu, 15 Nov 2012 03:48:49 -0800

Pine Knoll Shores Turkey Trot

If you are anything like me, you LOVE Thanksgiving Day and you also LOVE Thanksgiving Dinner. I tend to overeat, especially in the dessert category, and then I overeat some more.

Why not start your day with a walk or bike ride through the beautiful town of Pine Knoll Shores. On Thanksgiving Day, show up at McNeil Park (off Oakleaf Drive) to register for the 3rd Annual Turkey Trot. Registration begins at 9:00 a.m. The bike ride and run begins at 9:30 a.m. Don't let the word "run" scare you..... you can run, walk, stroll, crawl or however you want to cross the finish line. I can't think of a better way to start Thanksgiving Day, than by burning a few calories, making room for the Thanksgiving Feast, and enjoying the beautiful community I am so thankful for.

Dress warm, it will be chilly that morning by the water. Volunteers will be serving hot cocoa and cider, and it is sure to be a fun event for the entire family! Everyone is welcome to join in the Turkey Trot, including your four legged furry family members.... just make sure they are on a leash!

Hope to see you there!

Amy Hahn

Pine Knoll Shores Realty

252-723-7972 * 252-727-5000 * 800-605-8598

amyhahnnc@gmail.com

www.pineknollshoresrealty.com

For all of your real estate needs on the Crystal Coast of North Carolina

Hurricane App by American Red Cross

Amy Hahn, REALTOR®, Crystal Coast, NC (Pine Knoll Shores Realty) — Sun, 28 Oct 2012 04:04:12 -0700

Hurricane App by American Red Cross

With Hurricane Sandy about 300 miles off the North Carolina Coast, we will make out pretty good. Some areas will experience flooding, a few power outages already reported, and of course.... some trees will come down. Our friends North of here in the Washington DC, New Jersey, New York and many other areas will be experiencing much worse conditions as Sandy makes Landfall late Monday and early Tuesday.

This morning, while watching the Weather Channel, I learned about a great app for folks to use during a Hurricane. It is Hurricane by American Red Cross. The app is available for Apple or Android users, it's free, and includes lots of wonderful features that will be useful should you lose power. Just a few of the features are Hurricane Tracking, Location-based NOAA weather alerts, Locations of Red Cross Shelters, Emergency checklists and steps to prepare a family emergency plan, a toolkit with flashlight, strobe light and audible alarm, and my favorite.... a one touch "I'm safe" messaging that allows you to notify family & friends through social media that you are safe.

American Red Cross also has apps available for First Aid, Earthquakes and Wildfires.

Sending Prayers for all who are affected by this storm.

Stay safe & dry.

Amy Hahn

Pine Knoll Shores Realty

252-723-7972 * 252-727-5000 * 800-605-8598

amyhahnnc@gmail.com

www.pineknollshoresrealty.com

For all of your real estate needs on the Crystal Coast of North Carolina

"With each sunrise, we start anew"

Amy Hahn, REALTOR®, Crystal Coast, NC (Pine Knoll Shores Realty) — Thu, 25 Oct 2012 03:16:02 -0700

"With each sunrise, we start anew"

I love autumn on the Crystal Coast of North Carolina. The slightly cooler air, the few changing leaves we see, the festivals, the ghost stories… but most of all, I love the sunrise that greets us each and every day. Somehow, it looks different, more peaceful, through the cool breeze and the naked beaches.

Ahhhhh, Life is good on the Crystal Coast!

Amy Hahn

Pine Knoll Shores Realty

252-723-7972 * 252-727-5000 * 800-605-8598

amyhahnnc@gmail.com

www.pineknollshoresrealty.com

For all of your real estate needs on the Crystal Coast of North Carolina

Eastern North Carolina Homeowners Insurance Rate Increase Filing

Amy Hahn, REALTOR®, Crystal Coast, NC (Pine Knoll Shores Realty) — Wed, 17 Oct 2012 11:49:39 -0700

Eastern North Carolina Homeowners Insurance Rate Increase Filing

I attended a luncheon today and the primary focus was on the Homeowners Insurance Rate Increase Filing for North Carolina.

The North Carolina Rate Bureau submitted a Homeowners Insurance Rate Filing to the North Carolina Department of Insurance on October 1, 2012. They are submitting an average statewide 17.7% increase in homeowner's insurance rates to become effective June 1, 2013.

While the average increase for the state is 17.7%, here on the NC Coast, where we already experience much higher rates, we can expect an increase of 30% more. The 30% increase will effect property owners in the counties of Beaufort, Brunswick, Camden, Carteret, Chowan, Craven, Currituck, Dare, Hyde, Jones, New Hanover, Onslow, Pamlico, Pasquotank, Pender, Perquimans, Tyrell and Washington.

As a resident and property owner of Carteret County, I strongly urge property owners across Eastern North Carolina to let your voices be heard. We only have through October 19th to share our views on the proposed Insurance Rate increase.

For more information and to view Talking Points on this important issue, please visit the NC-20, "Twenty Counties, One Voice" website at www.nc-20.com.

NC-20 is encouraging all citizens in NC to voice their opinions about this rate filing. Written comments will be accepted through this Friday, October 19th, via email: 2012homewoners@ncdoi.gov.

Click HERE to view a sample letter (feel free to copy & paste) provided by the City of Emerald Isle.

Amy Hahn

Pine Knoll Shores Realty

252-723-7972 * 252-727-5000 * 800-605-8598

amyhahnnc@gmail.com

www.pineknollshoresrealty.com

For all of your real estate needs on the Crystal Coast of North Carolina

Brandywine Bay, October 2012 - Market Report

Amy Hahn, REALTOR®, Crystal Coast, NC (Pine Knoll Shores Realty) — Mon, 08 Oct 2012 06:40:43 -0700

Brandywine Bay, October 2012 - Market Report

When Comparing closed listings from the first three quarters of 2011 (21 units sold) vs. 2012 (30 units sold), number of Sales are up in Brandywine Bay.

The median sales price in 2012, year to date, is $238,300 (up from $222,500 in 2011). The average List Price in 2012 is $262,588 up from 2011 average list price of $260,874.

There are currently 48 active listings in Brandywine Bay, with 3 under contract, giving us around an 18 month supply of properties available.

This Market Report is provided by Amy M. Hahn of Pine Knoll Shores Realty and is based on data from The Crystal Coast MLS.

Information is deemed to be reliable but not guaranteed.

Amy Hahn

Pine Knoll Shores Realty

252-723-7972 * 252-727-5000 * 800-605-8598

amyhahnnc@gmail.com

www.pineknollshoresrealty.com

For all of your real estate needs on the Crystal Coast of North Carolina

Rachel Carson Reserve

Amy Hahn, REALTOR®, Crystal Coast, NC (Pine Knoll Shores Realty) — Tue, 02 Oct 2012 03:45:04 -0700

Rachel Carson Reserve

This past weekend my family had the priviledge of participating in the "Beach Sweep" with the Cub Scouts Pack 130 of Morehead City.

The purpose was to remove any trash or debris from the Rachel Carson Reserve in honor of "National Estuaries Day".

If you are on the Beaufort Waterfront, and look across Taylor's Creek, you will see a complex of small islands; Carrot Island, Town Marsh, Horse Island & Bird Shoal. Those small islands make up the Rachel Carson Reserve.

While on the islands, one may see herds of ferel horses, rabbits, foxes, and a variety of coastal birds. Wildflowers cover the sand, butterflies are EVERYWHERE, and the marsh grasses take on a golden hue as the sun breaks through the clouds. Absolutely Gorgeous!

The area is only accessible by boat, and is absolutely beautiful. From the top of the dunes on the Reserve, you can enjoy fabulous views of Beaufort, North Carolina - America's Coolest Small Town 2012.

Amy Hahn

Pine Knoll Shores Realty

252-723-7972 * 252-727-5000 * 800-605-8598

amyhahnnc@gmail.com

www.pineknollshoresrealty.com

For all of your real estate needs on the Crystal Coast of North Carolina

26th Annual NC Seafood Festival

Amy Hahn, REALTOR®, Crystal Coast, NC (Pine Knoll Shores Realty) — Tue, 25 Sep 2012 09:01:03 -0700

26th Annual NC Seafood Festival

Don't miss the 26th annual North Carolina Seafood Festival! The festival takes place October 5-7, 2012 on the Morehead City Waterfront and offers fun for the entire family. Enjoy breathtaking views of the Crystal Coast from the top of the ferris wheel. Enjoy a "Kona Ice" or other frosty beverage while watching the boats or kicking back listening to live beach music that fills the air. Try just about any kind of fresh, local seafood you can imagine and enjoy local artist booths, funnel cakes, local history, ice cream, regattas, fun & laughter....

Wonder why more than 150,000 folks attend this event? Come see for yourself! Great food, live music, games, rides and much, much more.... you don't want to miss this annual event!

For more information and a complete schedule of entertainment & events, visit their website at www.ncseafoodfestival.org.

Amy Hahn

Pine Knoll Shores Realty

252-723-7972 * 252-727-5000 * 800-605-8598

amyhahnnc@gmail.com

www.pineknollshoresrealty.com

For all of your real estate needs on the Crystal Coast of North Carolina

Is Now a good time to buy property on the Crystal Coast of NC?

Amy Hahn, REALTOR®, Crystal Coast, NC (Pine Knoll Shores Realty) — Tue, 18 Sep 2012 03:03:33 -0700

Is now a good time to buy property on the Crystal Coast of NC?

Not only are interest rates still LOW, property values are DOWN and there are many wonderful properties still available on the Crystal Coast of North Carolina, but there are many other reasons why NOW is a great time to buy property on the Crystal Coast of North Carolina.

We love tourist,"Dit Dots", here on the NC Coast, they are our Bread & Butter, but.... they are gone for the winter. Oh sure, they will visit here & there throughout the next few months, but for right now, they are gone and traffic on the island and the mainland are at a minimal.

Speed limits will be increasing by 10 miles per hour in just a few short days. This makes the drive down Bogue Banks Island nicer & quicker, making it easier to view more properties on any given day.

The weather is GLORIOUS! Highs in the 70's, Lows in the 60's, blue skies, less chance of Thunderstorms, and a nice, warm & gentle breeze fills the air this time of year.... Perfection!

Peak Hurricane Season is almost over, and chances of your trip to the beach getting cancelled due to evacuations are slim to none! WooHoo!

Restaurants and shops are less crowded, the fishing is still good if not better, and the lines at the Aquarium are much shorter. You may actually get to enjoy watching the Otters play while taking a break from house hunting!

Public Beach Access Parking is FREE! Once Labor Day came & went, the $10 parking fee was removed, but it will return for Memorial Day, so come on down, over or up and take advantage of no charge! Hey.... $10 will buy one heck of a tasty lunch at the Big Oak! Please note, the Big Oak closes for the month of December :-(

Hiking and sight seeing are more enjoyable in the fall, thanks to cooler weather and less mosquitoes! So, you may be able to leave the bug spray at home! Don't forget your sunscreen. The sun is still intense, and we do not want you to suffer sun damage!

Is now a good time to buy property on the Crystal Coast of North Carolina? You bet it is! If you aren't considering buying property, it's a great time to just visit too!

Homes for sale on the Crystal Coast of North Carolina

Amy Hahn

Pine Knoll Shores Realty

252-723-7972 * 252-727-5000 * 800-605-8598

amyhahnnc@gmail.com

www.pineknollshoresrealty.com

For all of your real estate needs on the Crystal Coast of North Carolina

Hammocks Beach State Park

Amy Hahn, REALTOR®, Crystal Coast, NC (Pine Knoll Shores Realty) — Sun, 09 Sep 2012 05:05:26 -0700

Hammocks Beach State Park

Eastern North Carolina offers SO MUCH! In fact, my family and I are on a mission to enjoy every inch of the Crystal Coast. For Labor Day, we decided to head out to Swansboro for our very first visit to Hammocks Beach State Park. From the mainland, you hop on a ferry for a 15 minute cruise through the marsh grass, and you end up at Bear Island. Once you arrive, you walk a trail about 1/2 a mile to get to the beach side. Bear Island is only accessible by boat, and what a treasure it is.

Of course, just like everything else we've done this summer, we got a little bit of rain. But thanks to the covered picnic areas, we were able to stay dry while eating an early picnic lunch while waiting for the sun to show up!

Once the clouds cleared, we were able to swim, play and walk the almost empty 3 miles of beach and even found a little time to just relax a bit too!

The ferry only runs in the summer, but if you are a bit adventurous, you can paddle out in a kayak or canoe. The concession stand at Bear Island is open from Memorial Day to Labor Day, so you will definitely want to take a cooler with drinks & snacks along too! Don't forget your sunscreen and bug spray.... You'll need it!

Please help us keep the island as beautiful as it is today. Stay off the Sand Dunes, leave only your footprints and remove all trash, and please.... do not feed the wildlife (no matter how much they beg)!

For more information about Hammocks Beach State Park and other parks throughout the great state of North Carolina, visit www.ncparks.gov.

Amy Hahn

Pine Knoll Shores Realty

252-723-7972 * 252-727-5000 * 800-605-8598

amyhahnnc@gmail.com

www.pineknollshoresrealty.com

For all of your real estate needs on the Crystal Coast of North Carolina

Crystal Coast Walking Group

Amy Hahn, REALTOR®, Crystal Coast, NC (Pine Knoll Shores Realty) — Sun, 02 Sep 2012 06:41:16 -0700

Crystal Coast Walking Group

A Crystal Coast Walking Group is forming and will meet and get organized on Saturday, September 8, 2012 at 9:00 a.m. Put on your comfortable clothes and walking shoes and join us in the parking lot at St. Francis by the Sea (920 Salter Path Road, Salter Path, NC). We’ll talk about our goals and figure out a plan. WE WILL WALK after we talk, so be prepared. Each walker will walk at her/his own pace and for the distance she/he feels comfortable with.

With so many wonderful areas to walk or hike on the Crystal Coast of North Carolina, we are thinking that we will meet at a different location each week (host's choice), but nothing will be set in stone until we all meet and decide together.

Please bring your family and friends. Walking is one of the easiest, best forms of exercise in the world and you don’t need any special equipment.

All Are Welcome, so please Join Us.... Let’s all get up and MOVE!

Just a few of my favorite places to walk on the Crystal Coast of NC

Patsy Pond Nature Trail

Hoop Pole Creek Trail

Cedar Point Tideland Trail

Neusiok Trail, Croatan National Forest

Bridges Street Walking/Biking Trail

Amy Hahn

Pine Knoll Shores Realty

252-723-7972 * 252-727-5000 * 800-605-8598

amyhahnnc@gmail.com

www.pineknollshoresrealty.com

For all of your real estate needs on the Crystal Coast of North Carolina