Onslow County NC Homes Talk

This was sent to me by a friend whose son is serving in Afghanistan.  Granted, it's a little long and moves a little slow but I promise you it is worth your time and I believe it will touch your heart.  I hope you'll take the time to watch it.

A Different Christmas Poem

Cynthia Tilghman, Realtor, Onslow County Home Specialist   910 459 9189     Email Me

Kingsbridge Realty, Inc

Search the Jacksonville NC MLS

We take pride in assisting Military Families locate a home in Onslow County when relocating to Camp Lejeune North Carolina

Area expert for homes in Hubert North Carolina

Disclaimer: The opinions expressed by The Activerain Network and it's members and those providing comments are theirs alone.  They do not reflect or express  the opinions of Cynthia Tilghman and Kingsbridge Realty, Inc.  Cynthia Tilghman and Kingsbridge Realty, Inc. are not responsible for the accuracy and/or content provided by  ActiveRain and its Members..

Dear Santa,
Thank you for taking the time to read my letter.  I am sure you are very busy checking and rechecking lists.  

You know I am a real estate agent and that this has been a challenging year for those of us in this business.  I am sure you have read in the paper and heard on tv and radio about the decline in sales in the housing market and all the problems in the lending industry. 

It's true, sales are off  in most areas and there are people having trouble making their mortgage payments.   However, there are still buyers out there who understand the market is ripe for those ready to buy and for this we are thankful.  

So, what should a real estate agent experiencing a slow market put on her Christmas list?  For me, it is simple because you see I am very blessed.  I have

• a loving family

• caring friends

•  loyal clients

• good health

•  a comfortable home

• plenty of food
  

•  a reliable car.

Dear Santa, my wish may not be as simple as some but if there is anything you can do to help me, I would surely appreciate it.  My wish is that

All agents and consumers have FAITH and HOPE in themselves, each other, our market and our country.

You see Santa, I believe that with faith and hope we will work through this challenging time and come out  more educated, better prepared,  more compassionate and ready to work and help our clients in a way that will best serve their needs.

Santa, if you were planning to bring me those beautiful, black leather Jimmy Choo boots that I saw and admired last month,  please don't...there must be a woman somewhere who needs boots more than I.

My closet is filled to the brim, I really don't need any more "stuff".   Thank you and Merry Christmas, Santa.

Cynthia Tilghman, Realtor, Onslow County Home Specialist   910 459 9189     Email Me

Kingsbridge Realty, Inc

We take pride in assisting Military Families locate a home in Onslow County when relocating to Camp Lejeune North Carolina

Area expert for homes in Hubert North Carolina

Disclaimer: The opinions expressed by The Activerain Network and it's members and those providing comments are theirs alone.  They do not reflect or express  the opinions of Cynthia Tilghman and Kingsbridge Realty, Inc.  Cynthia Tilghman and Kingsbridge Realty, Inc. are not responsible for the accuracy and/or content provided by  ActiveRain and its Members..

Graphic courtesy of ClipArt Heaven 

If you have been reading my blogs, you know that I live and work in Onslow County North Carolina home of Camp LeJeune Marine Base, New River Air Station and The Naval Hospital at Camp LeJeune all located in Jacksonville NC.   

Military families are my clients, friends, co-workers and neighbors.  I cannot begin to tell you how much respect and gratitude I  have for these families and their service to our country.  They sacrifice their lives for you and me!

If you ask most Americans if they support the troops, their answer would be "Yes".  I believe that is true in spirit but what do you (and most Americans) do to show their support?  Sadly, the answer is "NOTHING".  I urge you to take the few minutes it takes to send a thank you to military personnel serving overseas.

Xerox provides the card and instructions.  It's quick, easy and so appreciated by our Troops.   The site is "Let's Say Thanks".
Now go, do it!  Oh and one more thing you can do --- pray for our troops safe return.

Cynthia Tilghman, Realtor, Onslow County Home Specialist   910 459 9189     Email Me

Kingsbridge Realty, Inc., Making Houses Homes

We take pride in assisting Military Families locate a home in Onslow County when relocating to Camp Lejeune North Carolina

 Area expert for homes in Hubert North Carolina

Camp LeJeune Families, take note--this is important and exciting new for you.

Are you aware that under current law those serving in the military who buy their first home are not likely to be able to use the first time home buyers credit? 

I work with military families relocating to Camp LeJeune, New River Air Station and The Naval Hospital at Camp LeJeune in Jacksonville, N C and this has been such a disappointment to these families. 

Most military are only at a duty station for a short period of time and must sell the house they have purchased before the 36 month requirement in the current law is fulfilled--which means they are not eligible for the tax credit.

Finally, someone is looking out for our service men and women.

Our own North Carolina Representative, Walter B. Jones introduced language earlier in the year that has been written into the new law that would allow military personnel to retain the first time home buyer's credit if they need to sell their home within the first 36 months due to deployment or transfers.

Thanks Rep. Walter Jones for looking out for our military families!

Cynthia Tilghman, Realtor, Onslow County Home Specialist 910 459 9189 Email Me

Kingsbridge Realty, Inc., Making Houses Homes

We take pride in assisting Military Families locate a home in Onslow County when relocating to Camp Lejeune North Carolina

Area expert for homes in Hubert North Carolina

Search the Jacksonville NC MLS

Today is a special day -- a day set aside to remember, honor and thank the men and women who served their country  and fought for our freedom.

Military.Com has some wonderful links that provide history, information and ideas for involving children.

The History of Veterans Day

Celebrate Veterans Day With Your Children

Veterans Day Discounts

Tomb of the Unknowns

I challenge you to take the time to say "thank you" to a vet today--they deserve so much more!

"Thank a Veteran For Your Freedom"

Cynthia Tilghman, Realtor, Onslow County Home Specialist   910 459 9189     Email Me

Kingsbridge Realty, Inc., Making Houses Homes

We take pride in assisting Military Families locate a home in Onslow County when relocating to Camp Lejeune North Carolina

 Area expert for homes in Hubert North Carolina

Search the Jacksonville NC MLS

According to various news reports, the Congress has reached a tentative agreement to extend and perhaps expand the $8,000 tax credit.

The details reported:

1.  The $8,000 tax credit extension would cover first-time home buyers who sign a contract for a home by the end of April and close by the end of June.

2.  Create a $6,500 tax credit for those who buy a home, but have owned a home for at least five consecutive years out of the past eight years.

3.  The income limit would be raised to $125,000 a year for individuals and $225,000 for married couples.

All is contigent on the approval House and signed by the President.

For more information:

Senate Likely to Extend Tax Credit

Capitol Briefing -Senate Passes Bill to Extend Tax Credit

If you have been waiting or thought you had missed the boat -- it looks like you have a second chance.

Call me and let's get the ball rolling for your new home in Hubert, Swansboro, Jacksonville in Onslow County NC.

 Cynthia Tilghman, Realtor, Onslow County Home Specialist   910 459 9189     Email Me

Kingsbridge Realty, Inc., Making Houses Homes

We take pride in assisting Military Families locate a home in Onslow County when relocating to Camp Lejeune North Carolina

 Area expert for homes in Hubert North Carolina

Search the Jacksonville NC MLS

October may be all about ghosts, goblins and pumpkins to some in Onslow County NC, but to many residents living in Hubert, Swansboro, Jacksonville or stationed at Camp LeJeune Marine base;  it's all about the fabulous fall fishing!  The fishing  is at  its best in the Fall.  The water has cooled down and the fish  are heading back to the inshore waters all along the coast of North Carolina. 

The Fisherman's Post is a great website that concentrates on local fishing and offers advice/tips for the novice and pro fishermen

• Where to find the best fishing spots

• What kind of bait to use

• The best time of day to fish
  
  
• What kind of fish one can expect to catch  
  

• Calendar of Local Tournaments and Events  

What about the weather you may ask?  The answer is "PERFECTION"

So, grab your rod and reel, pick up some bait and head on down to Onslow County NC --the fish are biting and the weather is beautiful.

Once you get here, I know you will want to stay-- everybody does.  Give me a call and I'll help you find the perfect home! 

Cynthia Tilghman, Realtor, Onslow County Home Specialist   910 459 9189     Email Me

Kingsbridge Realty, Inc., Making Houses Homes

We take pride in assisting Military Families locate a home in Onslow County when relocating to Camp Lejeune North Carolina

 Area expert for homes in Hubert North Carolina

Search the Jacksonville NC MLS

Ok, guys let's all help our AR brother out!

There's more to buying a home than just finding the one that has the right number of bedrooms, is in the neighborhood of your choice or located  near school or work.

Here's four questions you should ask and answer:

1. Have you researched the market?  Knowing what homes are selling for in the area you want to buy will help you understand and determine what you will have to spend to get the home you want and/or need.
   
   
2. Do you know how much house you can afford?  A mortgage payment should not exceed more than 25% of your gross monthly earnings.  Mortgage payments that exceed 1/4 of your income could lead to financial troubles.
   
   
3. Do you have enough money for a down payment and closing costs?  Down payments vary but a safe plan is 20% of the selling price.    Closing costs range from 2% to 7%.    The exception is a VA loan which requires no downpayment.  If you qualify for a VA loan, by all means that is the way to go!
   
   
4. Is your credit report accurate?  Incorrect information on your credit report can cost you more money in higher interest rates.  Request reports from the three major national credit bureaus and reports mistakes immediately.   Then, follow up and make sure mistakes are corrected. 
   

So, are you ready?  If so give me a call and let's get started.

Search the Jacksonville NC MLS

Cynthia Tilghman, Realtor, Onslow County Home Specialist   910 459 9189     Email Me

Kingsbridge Realty, Inc., Making Houses Homes

We take pride in assisting Military Families locate a home in Onslow County when relocating to Camp Lejeune North Carolina

 Area expert for homes in Hubert North Carolina

Ok, you have your PC orders and you will be relocating to Camp LeJeune Marine Base, New River Air Station or the Naval Hospital at Camp LeJuene.

The next step is finding a home that will fit your family's needs.  First you must decide the area you want live--will it be

• Jacksonville, NC - the county seat of Onslow County and the largest town in the county
  
• Swansboro NC - a unique,small historic village on the White Oak River
  
• Hubert NC - a small community between Swansboro and Jacksonville--a very short drive to Camp LeJeune
  
• Richlands NC - a mostly rural area near Jacksonville and the bases

Each area is unique and special in its own way, it all a matter of personal preference.

As always, I welcome your emails and questions.

Cynthia Tilghman, Realtor, Onslow County Home Specialist   910 459 9189     Email Me

Kingsbridge Realty, Inc., Making Houses Homes

We take pride in assisting Military Families locate a home in Onslow County when relocating to Camp Lejeune North Carolina

 Area expert for homes in Hubert North Carolina

What are your plans for this long Labor Day weekend in Jacksonville, Swansboro, Hubert NC?  You know we are very fortunate, we have so many wonderful entertainment options especially this time of year.  

You don't have to spend a lot of money to enjoy the Labor Day weekend in Onslow County NC, most of these destinations are free or very affordable.

Camp LeJeune families often ask me what kind of entertainment is there is Jacksonville NC?

Here are some the answer I give them

• Take the boat out or head to one of the public beach and enjoy the beautiful Eastern North Carolina weather

Onslow County NC - Public Boat Ramps/Beaches

• Pack a lunch and take the kids to the Park for some free, relaxing and fun family time

Swansboro NC - New Playground

• Pull out the camper and/or tents, load up the family and go Camping

Camping Near Hubert, Swansboro NC

• Celebrate the official end of summer at the beach                                                                           

Swimming at Bear Island

Hammocks State Park

• Everyone enjoys visiting a zoo--yes, there is a zoo in Jacksonville NC

Lywood Park Zoo - Jacksonville NC

• Start up the car and make a short drive to neighboring Carteret County for an educational and fun day
  

NC Acquarium at Pine Knoll Shores

Fort Macon State Park

However you choose to celebrate this Labor Day Week-end, I hope you enjoy it.

And if I can assist you in your search for a home in Hubert, Swansboro, Jacksonville, Richlands or surrounding areas of Onslow County North Carolina, please contact me.

Search the Jacksonville NC MLS

Cynthia Tilghman, Realtor, Onslow County Home Specialist   910 459 9189     Email Me

Kingsbridge Realty, Inc., Making Houses Homes

We take pride in assisting Military Families locate a home in Onslow County when relocating to Camp Lejeune North Carolina

 Area expert for homes in Hubert North Carolina

Are you aware that some road/driving laws are unique to states?  It's true, they are.  If you are relocating to Camp LeJeune Marine Base, New River Air Station or the Naval Hospital at Camp LeJeune in Jacksonville North Carolina; here are some things you need to know:

• Fender Bender Law

The "Fender Bender" law requires motorists to move their vehicles to the shoulder of the road following minor, non-injury crashes. If you don’t follow the law, you could face a $110 fine and court costs.

• Move Over Law

Under the "Move Over" law, motorists are required to move over one lane, if possible, or reduce speed for stopped emergency vehicles with flashing lights on the shoulder of the highway, including public service vehicles with amber lights. Violating the law could result in a $500 fine.

• Quick Clearance Law
  The "Quick Clearance" law centers on getting vehicles out of the roadway. It states that if law enforcement and NCDOT agree that a vehicle and its cargo pose a safety concern, they can move it by any means necessary without facing any liability.

• NC Litter Law
  North Carolina law states it is illegal to dispose of litter on public or private property, unless you own that property. If you violate the law, you could face fines up to $200 and community service work.

• Parking on Highways
  Parking on highways is prohibited.

• Cell Phone Use by Drivers Younger Than 18
  Drivers younger than 18 are prohibited from using a mobile telephone while driving except in the case of an emergency or when talking to a parent or spouse. Violators pay a $25 fine, but receive no driver license points, insurance surcharge or court costs.

• Headlights
  Motorists are required to use their headlights from sunset to sunrise and when light conditions restrict visibility to 400 feet or less. Motorists are also required to use headlights while operating windshield wipers during inclement weather.

• NC Helmet Law
  Helmets are required by law when riding on a motorcycle or moped. Children up to age 16 are required to wear a helmet while riding a bicycle.

• Seat Belts
  All vehicle occupants including those in the back seat are required to wear seat belts. Front seat passengers who violate the law will receive a $25 fine. Back seat passengers will receive a $10 fine. Children up to age 8 and weighing less than 80 pounds must be secured in a safety seat while riding in a vehicle. Older children must transition to booster seats before graduating to an adult safety belt. Drivers who fail to properly secure their children face $125 in fines and court costs, as well as a two-point penalty on their driving record. For more information about seat belts and child restraints, visit www.buckleupnc.org.

• Right Turn on Red
  Right turns at a traffic signal with a red light are permitted after a complete stop, unless otherwise posted. Left turns on red are not permitted.

• Traffic Crashes
  Traffic crashes involving death, personal injury or property damage of $1,000 or more must be reported to the nearest law enforcement officer or agency. Failure to make this report may result in prosecution or driver license suspension.

• Driving While Impaired
  Motorists with a blood alcohol concentration at or greater than 0.08 percent are charged with driving while impaired. Minimum punishment is a possible fine of up to $200 and a possible term of imprisonment ranging from 24 hours to 30 days. Maximum punishment is a possible fine of up to $4,000 and a possible term of imprisonment ranging from 30 days to two years.

• License Suspension law
  A person convicted of DWI will also have his or her license suspended by NCDOT’s Division of Motor Vehicles for at least one year. Persons with a prior DWI conviction may be subject to punishment as a felon and their vehicle may be seized and sold.

And if I can assist you in your search for a home in Hubert, Swansboro, Jacksonville, Richlands or surrounding areas of Onslow County North Carolina, please contact me.

Search the Jacksonville NC MLS

Cynthia Tilghman, Realtor, Onslow County Home Specialist   910 459 9189     Email Me

Kingsbridge Realty, Inc., Making Houses Homes

We take pride in assisting Military Families locate a home in Onslow County when relocating to Camp Lejeune North Carolina

 Area expert for homes in Hubert North Carolina

A fabulous house site located on Queen's Creek in the Kingsbridge II Subdivision in Hubert NC surrounded by beautiful homes in a family oriented neighborhood.

Conveniently located -  approximately 12 minutes to the back gate of Camp LeJeune Marine Base in Jacksonville NC.  Approximately 5-8 minutes to schools, shopping and banking.       

Search the Jacksonville NC MLS

Cynthia Tilghman, Realtor, Onslow County Home Specialist   910 459 9189     Email Me

Kingsbridge Realty, Inc., Making Houses Homes

We take pride in assisting Military Families locate a home in Onslow County when relocating to Camp Lejeune North Carolina

 Area expert for homes in Hubert North Carolina

Can you believe the summer is almost over?  I can't, where did it go?  Yes, we had our wonderful days

• Swimming and playing on the beach at Hammocks Beach and Bear Island
  
• Launching the boat in Swansboro for a day on White Oak River or in Bogue Sound
  
• Relaxing with friends and neighbors in Kingsbridge on Queens Creek in Hubert NC
  
• Playing at the wonderful new public playground in Swansboro 
  
• Spending precious time with family 
  

But alas, the long, lazy days of summer are soon coming to an end and it's time to think about school.  Monday, August 25th is the first day of school for students in Onslow County NC. 

If you have just relocated to Camp LeJeune, New River Air Station or the Naval Hospital at Camp LeJeune or any area of Onslow County NC; a wonderful resource is the Onslow County School website.  There is a wealth of general information concerning all schools and links to each school with more specific information such as school supplies student will need.

To view and print a copy of the 2009-2010 Onslow County Public School Calendar click on this link--all holidays, teacher workdays, etc. are shown.  A must for all parents for sure!

Looking a home in Hubert, Swansboro, Jacksonville, Richlands or any area of Onslow County NC?  I would consider it a pleasure to assist you. 

Search the Jacksonville NC MLS

Cynthia Tilghman, Realtor, Onslow County Home Specialist   910 459 9189     Email Me

Kingsbridge Realty, Inc., Making Houses Homes

We take pride in assisting Military Families locate a home in Onslow County when relocating to Camp Lejeune North Carolina

 Area expert for homes in Hubert North Carolina

It's being touted as the most substantial improvement to the GI bills since WW II.  Tomorrow, August 1st it is going live. 

What does it mean for you a veteran living in Onslow County N C or an active duty marine stationed at Camp LeJeune Marine Base, New River Air Station or sailor at the Naval Hospital at Camp LeJeune in Jacksonville, N C?

These links provide the details.

• Up to 100% Tuition and Fee Coverage
• A Monthly Living (Housing) Stipend
• Up to $1000 a year for Books and Supplies
• A One Time Relocation Allowance
• The Option to Transfer Benefits to Family Members
• Other Benefits
• Basic Eligibility Criteria

Cynthia Tilghman, Realtor, Onslow County Home Specialist   910 459 9189     Email Me

Kingsbridge Realty, Inc., Making Houses Homes

We take pride in assisting Military Families locate a home in Onslow County when relocating to Camp Lejeune North Carolina

 Area expert for homes in Hubert North Carolina

You've gotten your orders and you will be going to Camp LeJuene, New River Air Station or the Naval Hospital at Camp LeJeune in Jacksonville NC which is located in Onslow County.

There are questions and concerns regarding schools, childcare, housing and more.    The following links are excellent resources for those relocating to Jacksonville NC.

I wish you safe travels and we look forward to seeing and welcoming you to Onslow County NC.

Locate a Home in Onslow County NC

Search the Jacksonville NC MLS

Child Care

Onslow County NC Before & After School Care

Childcare Directory for Families Relocating to Camp LeJeune

Jacksonville NC Childcare Directory for Camp LeJeune and New River Air Station Families

Schools

Onslow County NC Schools, How Do I Enroll My Child?

Private Schools in Onslow County

Onslow County Schools - Parent/Teacher Conference, Are You Ready?

Support Swansboro High School Band When You Buy Groceries

Onslow County NC School Bus Laws

Attention:  Onslow County Parents - New Immunization Laws

Relocation Resources

Military Relocation to Camp LeJeune Marine Base

Marine PCS Relocation Directory

Preparing for Relocation to Camp LeJeune Marine Base

Relocating with Pets to Camp LeJeune Marine Base

BAH for Camp LeJeune NC Families

Relocating to Camp LeJeune?

Recreation and Entertainment

Onslow County NC Youth Basketball Registration

Mike's Farm in Onslow County NC

Jacksonville NC Free Fall Walking Program

Free Family Fun - Onslow County NC

Fun/Play Time for Camp LeJeune Families

Swimming at Bear Island - Swansboro NC

Swansboro NC Library Has Something for You

Camping Near Hubert, Swansboro NC

Kayak/Canoe Paddle Trail in Onslow County NC

Jacksonville NC Fitness Activities for Senior Citizens

Free Family Events in Onslow County NC

The Fish Are Biting in Swansboro NC

Swansboro NC Churches

Swansboro NC Churches Welcome You

Hospitals

Onslow County Memorial Hospital

Naval Hospital at Camp LeJeune

Local Services and Resources and Information

Swansboro NC Visitors' Center

Onslow County NC - Vehicle Registration, Marriage License, Voter Registration, Etc.

Hubert NC - Electric Co, Water Service, Etc.

Swansboro NC Dog Wash - Yes, You Read That Right!

Onslow County NC - Hurricane Evacuation with Pets

Come On Down - You'll Get Hooked on the Climate and Year Round Living in Onslow County NC

Eastern North Carolina - Flood Insurance

Buying Vacant Land in Onslow County NC - What You Need to Know

I hope you found this information helpful.  If you need more information or I can assist you in any way with your relocation to Camp LeJeune Marine Base, New River Air Station or the Naval Hospital at Camp LeJeune; please contact me.

Cynthia Tilghman, Realtor, Onslow County Home Specialist   910 459 9189     Email Me

Kingsbridge Realty, Inc., Making Houses Homes

We take pride in assisting Military Families locate a home in Onslow County when relocating to Camp Lejeune North Carolina

 Area expert for homes in Hubert North Carolina

If you live in coastal North Carolina or plan to relocate to the area, you are or will be involved in water related activities.  It's a way of life and what a life!  There's nothing quite like a day out on the water. 

Wherever you live in Onslow County N C be it Hubert, Swansboro or Jacksonville, you probably own a watercraft or have friends who own one and chances are very good that you will have the opportunity to be on the water this July 4th holiday weekend. 

There will be lots of boats out so boaters will need to "boat offensively and responsibly".    The Coast Guard will also be out monitoring boaters and their equipment so be sure you have life jackets aboard for all passengers. 

Perhaps you are visiting the area and need to launch your boat, check out this link  - Onslow County North Carolina Public Boat Ramps and Fishing Piers.

Many families just want to spend a day at the beach and if you have just relocated to Camp LeJeune Marine Base, New River Air Station or the Naval Hospital at Camp LeJeune, you might not be aware of all the Onslow County North Carolina Beaches and Accesses.

Search the Jacksonville NC MLS

Cynthia Tilghman, Realtor, Onslow County Home Specialist   910 459 9189     Email Me

Kingsbridge Realty, Inc., Making Houses Homes

We take pride in assisting Military Families locate a home in Onslow County when relocating to Camp Lejeune North Carolina

 Area expert for homes in Hubert North Carolina

Hello Onslow County Home Seller,
My fellow AR member Paddy expressed my sentiments very, very well so please consider Paddy's letter my letter to YOU!

Search the Jacksonville NC MLS

Cynthia Tilghman, Realtor, Onslow County Home Specialist   910 459 9189     Email Me

Kingsbridge Realty, Inc., Making Houses Homes

We take pride in assisting Military Families locate a home in Onslow County when relocating to Camp Lejeune North Carolina

 Area expert for homes in Hubert North Carolina

It's a well know fact in the Jacksonville, Onslow County NC area----Camp LeJeune Marine Base hosts the very best 4th of July   Celebration.  The fireworks display is always awesome!  This year will be no exception.

Join Marine Corps Community Service Semper Fit Division in partnership with Tyson Foods Saturday, July 4th at W.P.T Field on base for an evening filled with food, fun and music!

A concert of patriotic music begins at 5:30 (make sure you carry lawn chairs and/or blankets) featuring  Camp LeJeune's 2nd Marine Division Band and the Carteret Choral Society.

Of course, the evening will end with a spectacular fireworks display.

Admission is Free

Open to the Public

Alcohol free event

No pets allowed

No personal fireworks allowed

Fireworks rain date - July 5th.

For more information  call 910 451 2785

Search the Jacksonville NC MLS

Cynthia Tilghman, Realtor, Onslow County Home Specialist   910 459 9189     Email Me

Kingsbridge Realty, Inc., Making Houses Homes

We take pride in assisting Military Families locate a home in Onslow County when relocating to Camp Lejeune North Carolina

 Area expert for homes in Hubert North Carolina