Onslow County NC Homes Talk

  It's true... I do bring you good news!  I know that is not what you are hearing and reading from the news media.

But think about it, you are in the driver's seat.  For the first time in several years you get to be the one to call the shots and play hard ball.

• Inventory of houses on the market is plentiful --That means there are more to choose from-- which means you are more likely to find a home that  fits your needs in the location you want to live.

• Homeowners are anxious to sell - Some houses have been on the market for several months now and sellers have begun to accept the reality of the market and are now seriously motivated.

• Builders need to sell and are offering incentives - Many builders are sitting on spec houses which they need to move in order to eliminate the construction loan interest payment due to the bank every month.  They, too, have begun to see the reality of the market and are lowering prices and/or offering incentives.

• Interest rates are low - Historically interest rates are still low.  I know they may not be as low as they were a year ago but the rates are still good and there is no guarantee they will not go up.   

If you are thinking of building from the ground up, the timing is the best it has been in years

• Contractors and subcontractors need work

• The price of building supplies has come down and supplies are more available
  

• Because contractors have less work
• Build time is shorter
• Contractor is more likely to personally oversee the job
• Contractor and subs are more likely to negotiate

The timing is right to buy a home in Hubert North Carolina whether you are relocating to Camp Lejeune in Jacksonville or your family has outgrown its home in Swansboro NC but you need an agent who understands the market, is well acquainted with the area and understand the Sellers motivation.

I can assist you with any Onslow County North Carolina real estate need you might have.

Contact me with any questions, if I do not know the answer--I will find it.  

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

Kingsbridge Realty, Inc., Making Houses Homes in Onslow County  North Carolina        

Area expert for homes in Hubert North Carolina

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

Today is my Mom's Birthday!  I am not telling her age but I will say she hit a new decade last year and it involved the digit 6. :0)  Don't get mad at me, she really does not mind.   She is younger than many people I know in their 30s.    

My Mom is a class act.  Last year on her birthday, she sent her Mom 5 dozen red roses (you know the reason for the number)  My Grannie was so pleased, it really made her day (week...month) and gave her something to talk about for weeks!  How great is that?

So, wish my Mom (the very best Mom in the world) Jeanette, a

Happy Birthday!

Eastern North Carolina is known as the home of the pirate, Blackbeard, and perhaps where some of his treasures were buried three centuries ago.  

Many businesses are learning there are other treasures in Eastern North Carolina such as

• Some of the Lowest Tax Rates - North Carolina has no inventory or raw material tax.

• Incentives for Locating in North Carolina - We support new and relocating businesses with many local, regional and state programs as a commitment to their success. 

• Right to Work State - We have the lowest unionization rate in the country.
  

• Job Training Resources - Our community colleges are nationally recognized and are free to qualifying new and expanding businesses.
  

• Labor pool - Boosted by 12,000 annual military discharges.  North Carolina's workmen's compensation and unemployment rates are among the lowest in the nation.

• Affordable Building and Building Sites -Land and building sites are reasonably priced and power rates are  below the national average.

• Easy Access by Air, Interstate, Railroad and Deep Water Ports - Our location puts us within overnight reach of 170 million U.S and Canadian consumers.

• Moderate Weather - Eastern North Carolina has mild winters with little snow and ice. 

• Relaxed Style of Living - North Carolina consistently ranks as one of the best places to live in the United States.
  

• Quality of Life  - The communities of Eastern North Carolina are small and an area where people still believe in neighbors helping neighbors.

If you are considering relocating a business, Eastern North Carolina is a location you will want to investigate.

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

Email Me

 Kingsbridge Realty, 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

Graphic courtesy of ClipArt Heaven 

Photo property of Cynthia Tilghman 

Where in the world are my manners?  I should have done this weeks ago!  My Mama would not approve of my thoughtlessness.  I do apologize, please forgive me.

You are  all cordially invited to join us in Onslow County North Carolina for the Thanksgiving holidays. 

The weather promises to be  nice with highs on Thanksgiving Day in the mid 60s. There will be plenty of good food with most families dining on

                Roast turkey                                                   

                                                             Cornbread stuffing and gravy

                                                              Ham

                                                              Sweet potatoes

                                                              Collards or green beans

                                                              Ambrosia

                                                              Yeast rolls or biscuits 

There will be lots of college football games on tv for all the footballs fans and for those who prefer to get out of the house, the retailers are gearing up for huge after Thanksgiving sales with some beginning at 5AM.

Now, why would you travel to Onslow County for Thanksgiving when you can do all this in your hometown?  I'll tell you why.....we offer more.

The beach----great for walking or running off those calories after the big meal and you probably will not need a jacket.  

N C Aquarium in Pine Knoll Shores ---a great place to take the kids so Dad, Grand-dad and the Uncles can enjoy the games in peace. 

The Swansboro Christmas Flotilla- Beginning at sunset the flotilla starts at the high-rise bridge at Emerald Isle and goes down White Oak River in the Intracoastal Waterway on the day after Thanksgiving.  Front Street in Swansboro is the perfect place to see both the boat parade and Santa’s grand entrance at Port O’Swannsborough.  

So, there I have extended the invitation and we look forward to your visit. 

By the way while you are here, you might want to look into purchasing a piece of Onslow County paradise.  If so, give me a ring.   

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

Graphics courtesy of ClipArt Heaven

 Photo courtesy of Flickr- S&M

I noticed yesterday driving back home from an out of town weekend trip that many people were putting up their Christmas trees and outdoor decorations.

What has happened? It seems to me that each year people start preparing for Christmas a little earlier than the year before.  What is the reason?  Is it the influence of the retailers or is there another reason?

Now, I know  it is a tradition for many people to put their Christmas tree up the day after Thanksgiving but not in my family.   My parents would never put up a tree until the second week of December at the very earliest.  My Dad always said any earlier than that and the tree would  dry out (even when watered regularly) and become a fire hazard.

I find that I follow the traditions that I grew up with and I suspect most people do the same. 

What are your Christmas decorating traditions?

• When do you put up your tree?
  
  
• Do you have more than one Christmas tree?

• Do you use a live or artificial tree?
  

• Do you use clear or colored lights on your tree?
  

• Do you decorate an outside tree?

• When do you take your tree down?

• Do you use ornaments made by your children and/or collected by you over the years or do you do a theme tree?

 It will be fun to hear from you and learn about your family's Christmas decorating traditions. 

Graphics courtesy of ClipArt Heaven 

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 looking a place to worship in Swansboro North Carolina?  Perhaps you have just relocated to Camp Lejeune Marine base in Jacksonville or maybe you just moved in a home in Hubert NC.  

Swansboro United Methodist Church

665 Corbett Avenue, Swansboro NC   910 326 - 4822 

Worship services

Sunday 8:30 AM

Sunday 11:00 AM

Saturday 5:30 PM 

Sunday School - Sunday 9:45 AM

 1st Baptist Church of Swansboro NC 

614 West Corbett Avenue, Swansboro NC  910 326-5768

Worship services

Sunday 8:30 AM - Contemporary Worship & praise

Sunday 11:00 AM - Traditional Worship

Sunday 7:00 PM - Worship & praise

Sunday School - 9:45 AM

St. Peter's By the Sea Episcopal Church

503 West Broad Street, Swansboro NC  910 326- 4757 

Eucharists 

Sunday 8:00 AM - Rite I Holy Eucharist (Communion)

Sunday 10:30 AM - Rite II Eucharist

St. Mildred Catholic Church

653 Old Hammock Road, Swansboro NC 910 326 5589

Mass Schedule

Saturday 5:30 PM

Sunday 8:00 AM and 11:00 AM

Daily Mass - Monday7:00 PM, Tuesday/Wednesday 9:00 AM

Sacrament of Reconciliation - Saturday 4:45 PM 

                                                                    

The churches of Swansboro invite you to worship with them.  Please contact them at the phone numbers provided for any questions or visit their website.

We hope to see you in church on Sunday.

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

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

Recently I commented on Jackie Peraza's post "A Photo is Worth a Thousand Words - Long Term" with the comment "Trust, what an important relationship that is with our clients but something that must be earned through respect, honesty and diligence". 

Jackie responded back "It's a three legged stool; with one-third missing, the remaining two-thirds just aren't sufficient".

Jackie's words gave me a mental picture --the stool is trust and the three legs are respect, honesty and diligence.

Take away any one of the 3 legs and the stool (trust) collapses.        

So how do you build your stool of trust?

•  Listen to my client with my ears and my heart

• Respond to phone calls and emails promptly

• Communicate with them often, keeping them abreast of marketing plans, showings, feedback and changes in the market,

• Try to accommodate their schedules and needs

• Advise them of the true market value of their home

• Coach them of needed improvements to help make their home more appealing

• Explain all forms and contacts in a way they can understand

     Leg 3 - Diligence  - This means I

• Have a thorough and proven market plan and follow through with it

• Check and recheck all forms and contracts to ensure accuracy
  
  
• Do a thorough and accurate market analysis prior to pricing the home/property
  
  
• Stay abreast of the market and  know the area
  
  
• Put clients in touch with mortgage lenders and all professionals needed to complete the transaction
  
  
• Cooperate and work with other agents, lenders and attorneys
  
  
• Dress and conduct business in a professional manner

How is your 3 legged stool?  Is it straight and sturdy or do one or more of the legs need some work and support?

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

With the approaching holidays and gas prices soaring, many families are looking ways to cut expenses but do not want to sacrifice activities for their children or family outings.  

Onslow County Public libraries to the rescue!  The library offers many programs and events for children of all ages as well as adults. What better gift can we give our children than the love of books and reading?  This is a gift that will last forever unlike toys that are broken and discarded.

 
Laptime -Infants up to 23 months old

Every Wednesday 10 Am - Main Library - 58 Doris Avenue East, Jacksonville  910 455 7357

Time for Twos - 2 year olds & their caregivers

Every Thursday  10:00 AM Main Library -Jacksonville

Preschool Story time- Children ages 3 to 5 without caregivers.

Every Tuesday - 10:00 AM Main Library - Jacksonville
Every Tuesday - 11:00 AM, Richlands Library -    299 S. Wilmington Street, Richlands 910-324-5321 
Every Thursday - 11:00 AM, Swansboro Library - 1460 West Corbett Avenue,Swansboro     910-326-4888

Mother Goose Time - Children up to 3 years old & their caregivers

Every Tuesday at 10:00 AM, Richlands  Library
Every Thursday at 10:00 AM, Swansboro  Library

Homeschool Story time - Kindergarten to 4th grade.

4th Monday of every month at 11:00 AM, Main Library - Jacksonville

Kids Creations- School-age children. 

1st Wednesday of every month at 4:30 PM, Main Library Jacksonville
1st Tuesday of every month at 4:30 PM, Richlands Library
1st Wed. of every month at 4:30 PM, Sneads Ferry Library
1st Thursday of every month at 4:30 PM, Swansboro Library

Just for Adults

Bookaholics -  4th Tuesday of each month (except December)-7:00 PM- Main library meeting room
 
Poetry Open Mic Night for Adults - 4th Thursday of every month  6:30 PM , Locations alternate between OCPL, Main Library & Harriotte B. Smith Library, Camp Lejeune - Call 910 455 7350 ext.233

Family Film Friday-An afternoon movie & popcorn-- a different family-friendly movie the third Friday of every month.

December 21 4PM - Main library meeting room, Jacksonville                                   
 
Holiday Family Fun-An hour of holiday books, stories & crafts!                 

Make sure to stop by the Main Library in Jacksonville & visit a very special guest (Santa Claus!)

Just 4 Teens

Homeschool Lunch Bunch - 5th grade and up for home schooled children.  Make sure to carry your lunch 4th Tuesday of every month at 11:30 a.m.- Main Library in Jacksonville.  

Pizza Pages - 6th through 8th grade
3rd Thursday of every month at 6:00 p.m. at the Main Library, Jacksonville - Free Pizza

Take advantage of these free events and program sponsored by your county library system.   

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

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

Graphic courtesy of ClipArt Heaven 

In a matter of days, we will be celebrating Thanksgiving.  What does Thanksgiving mean to you and what message are you sending your children and grandchildren?    Is it all about a big meal and a day of football on tv or is it a time to give thanks for all the blessings you have received?

It is easy to be thankful for the good things, but we also need to give thanks for

• Things we don't know -  it gives us an opportunity to learn
  
  
• Difficult times - it is during these times that we grow and mature
  
  
• Limitations - provides an opportunity to improve
  
  
• Mistakes - they teach us valuable lessons

I believe a thankful heart will lead us in the right direction showing us where we need to spend our time, money and energy giving us the balance we need in our lives.

As a child I remember how the time between Thanksgiving and Christmas just dragged.   It seemed more like months than days.
 
Now it seems we barely have time to put away the china and silver used for the Thanksgiving meal before it is time to get it out again for Christmas dinner.

It is easy to get caught up in a commercial Christmas---gifts, decorations, parties--- and forget the reason for the holiday.

Do our children understand why we celebrate Christmas?   Do they think it is all about Santa and gifts or do they know the true meaning of Christmas?  

I believe Christmas is a wonderful opportunity to remember and teach our children that         

• The fir tree -  is a symbol of HOPE--the tree stays green all year--which illustrates the hope of mankind.  Its needles point heavenward, showing us where to place our hope.

• Star - The Star was the sign of fulfillment of God's promise - the birth of Jesus

• Candle - A symbol that Christ is the light of the world and it is He that vanquishes darkness. 

• Wreath - Symbolizes the nature of love...... love is a continuous round of emotion and affection.

• Santa - Represents generosity and goodwill toward our fellowman. 

• Gifts -"God so loved the world He gave his only begotten Son".  Thanks be to God for his gift.
  

• Candy cane - It represent the shepherd's crook which rescued his sheep.  A reminder that we are our brother's keeper.

• Angel - It was the angels that announced the news of the Savior's birth. 
  

•  Bell - The sound of the bell brought lost shop back to the shepard.  The bell symbolizes guidance and return.  

I believe that if we take the time to reflect on the reason for the season and what it means to us and if we are truly grateful for the gift of Christmas, our priorities will fall into place.  Our hearts will guide us as to what we need to do to have the balance we need to manage our families, work, time and friends--our lives will have balance. 

I wish you and yours a Happy Holiday Season with the right balance for you.

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

Kingsbridge Realty, Inc., Making Houses Homes

Graphics by ClipArtHeaven 

It seems my "foodie" buddies are getting restless again and asking when I plan to post another recipe. 

After giving it some thought, I decided this one would be good to share.  It is a great snack to have on hand on Thanksgiving Day for guest to munch while waiting on the feast.

This also makes a great gift.  Just package in pretty clear bags and tie with a bow.  Voila` !

These are marvelous with your choice of adult beverage. 

 
Rosemary Walnuts (but I use pecans---southern girl, you know)                

1/2 stick cold, unsalted butter cut into 4 pieces

2 tablespoons very finely minced fresh rosemary

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/8 teaspoon ground red pepper

2 cups walnut (or pecan) halves

Mix butter pieces, rosemary, salt & red pepper and place in a jelly roll pan lined with foil (you know, like a cookie sheet but has sides).  Bake at 400 degrees until butter melts; remove from oven.  Add nuts and toss to coat.  Bake 6 to 9 minutes more stirring at 3 minute intervals.  Let cool.  Place in airtight container.  Yield:  2 cups

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

• optimist or pessimist

• look at a glass as half full or half empty.

Personally, I believe in keeping a positive attitude and looking at the bright side.   But..... the following story might take optimism a little further that I would in the same situation.

"A lady was losing her hair.  One morning she woke up, looked in the mirror and she had only three hairs left on her entire head.   She smiled into the mirror and said 'I think I'll braid my hair today'.  The next morning  when she looked in the mirror, she saw there were only two hairs.  She said 'Today, I'll part my hair down the middle'.  The third morning when the lady looked in the mirror, there was only one lonely hair left.   With much bravery the woman said  'I think I'll have a pony tail today'. "

The lesson:  Appreciate and work with what you have.  Simple?  No, but very wise. 

Cynthia Tilghman, Realtor®, Onslow County Home Specialist

Kingsbridge Realty, Inc., Making Houses Homes

Area expert for Homes in Hubert North Carolina 

Graphic courtesy of ClipArt Heaven 

A nostalgic evening of candlelight shopping awaits you on Saturday November 10 from 5 to 9 PM in  downtown Swansboro.

The merchants have decked their halls with greenery, ribbons and bows and will greet shoppers with holiday refreshments.

Caroling Barbershop Quartets will be strolling the streets lit by candles filling the air with the sounds of Christmas.

Bring your list for you are sure to find the perfect gifts in the quaint shops and boutiques located along Front Street.

 Plan to dine in one of Swansboro's fine restaurants and enjoy the evening of shopping on the waterfront of historic Swansboro.

Cynthia Tilghman, Realto®, Onslow County Home Specialist

Email Me      910 459 1989

Kingsbridge Realty, Inc., Making Houses Homes 

If you live in Onslow County, NC and have questions about buying or selling a home in Hubert NC or perhaps a building lot in Swansboro NC, I am here to answer your questions and provide you with the information you need. 

My blog is a source that you can trust for reliable information. I hope you will check by occasionally to read what I have posted, read the comments left by others and to ask your own questions and leave your comments.

Remember, there are no dumb questions. If I do not know the answer, I will try my best to find the answer for you and if I can't find it, I'll tell you and I'll find someone who can provide the answer. 

If your questions are concerning financing a home, I can

• Help you understand what is involved in qualifying for a mortgage
  
  
• Tell you what kind of documentation you will need to furnish the mortgage company
  
  
• Provide you with the names of 3 mortgage lenders that will help you with pre-qualification

•  Prepare a CMA (a report that compares your home in value, location, size and amenities to sold homes in the area)
  

• Suggest a selling price (after preparing the CMA)

• Advise you on things that you can do that will make your home more competitive
  
  
• Show you the marketing plan I will use to sell your home
  
  
• Provide you with names and phones number of some of my recent clients
  
  
• Explain in detail the listing agreement, offer to purchase and all paperwork involved in selling a home

If you have questions about buying a home in Onslow County, I can

• Show you any homes for sell listed in our Jacksonville/Onslow County MLS
  
  
• Answer your questions about different neighborhoods, schools, taxes, transportation, utilities, etc.
  
  
• Furnish you with the names of 3 mortgage lenders that will work with you
  
  
• Explain in detail the offer to purchase, contract and all paperwork involved in the buying a home
  

If you are relocating to Camp Lejeune (or anywhere in Onslow County) you may have questions about the area, I can answer your questions or provide you with the resource needed to find the answer to your questions. 

Come on in, the Welcome Mat is out for you. 

Please feel free to Contact me by email or phone 910 459 9189.  I want to be your resource for information on Onslow County real estate. 

Cynthia Tilghman, Realtor®, Onslow County Home Specialist 

Kingsbridge Realty, Inc., Making Houses Homes 

Graphic courtesy of ClipArt Heaven 

There are so many things going on in Onslow County this weekend and the weatherman is promising us beautiful weather.  No excuses for being a couch potato, get out and enjoy the events.

(Photo courtesy of Flickr- Jason & Sarah) 

Veterans' Day Parade in Jacksonville - The parade will start at 10 AM at Coastal Community College and continue down Western Boulevard.  Show your support for our troops and veterans by attending the parade.

Let's Drive Away Diabetes
A community health and information fair will be held in Jacksonville at the Piggly Wiggly located at 1040 Henderson Blvd, in Jacksonville from 11:30AM-1:30PM.  The focus will be on diabetes prevention and is hosted by the Onslow County Health Department and New River Antique Auto Club.

                                                (Photo courtesy of Flickr-colonel bob)

Fall Fun Team Bass Tournament - Event open to the public
Location - Gottschalk Marina, Camp Lejeune
Time - 6AM-4PM          
  Registration fee - $85/team -
Prizes - Trophies and cash prizes for the first 3 places, $1,000 prize guaranteed
Teams of 2 persons will fish for Largemouth Bass on New River and its tributaries
Food and drinks will be provided at the weigh-in    
For more information call 910 451 8307

Museum Fest - The 31st Annual Museums Fest in Richlands will host a large variety of arts and craft vendors featuring holiday gifts of pottery, jewelry, textiles and wood -crafts.  There will be music, food and fun.  The event is free and open to the public.  For more information 910-324-5008 or visit the website


Cynthia Tilghman, Realtor®, Onslow County Home Specialist  

Contact me  910 459 9189

Kingsbridge Realty, Inc., Making Houses Homes 

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

                                                                                                                    (photo courtesy of Flickr deu49097)