Utility Bills Got You Down?

Are your utility bills going up as the temperatures outside go down? You can analyze your home's energy usage on Union Power's web site. Might be an insightful exercise and could save you money!

Could recent home sales affect your home's value?

Could 2010 home sales affect your home's value? The Charlotte Observer ran an analysis on Mecklenburg home sales for the year, and introduced the data in an interactive online map. See how home sales compare in your neighborhood!

Featured Broker: Sheila Chillcott, Broker/Realtor

Sheila and her family have lived in South Charlotte since 1997. As a volunteer for the PTA Board and the YMCA, and Committee Chairman of the Homeowner’s Association, she is a valued community leader.

Originally from Pittsburgh, PA, she attended Robert Morris University and has a BA in Marketing. She is a member of the North Carolina Association of Realtors and the Carolina MLS.

Sheila has a true passion and knowledge for the real estate market, and would love the opportunity to work for you. Whether buying or selling, she will use her expertise and experience to have your home staged and sold, or help you find your next dream home.

Please contact Sheila at Sheila@YourPropertyPeople.com or 704-641-5525.

Golf Club Membership Information

Like most other markets across the country, the Charlotte residential market is on a down cycle. Many current homebuyers can afford to be choosy, and neighborhood amenities can play a big role when making a buying decision.

Golf and social clubs are an attractive amenity in many luxury neighborhoods. But their prices, offerings and membership structures vary from club to club. Your Property People, Inc. recently surveyed area clubs to gather helpful information for buyer clients and recommend asking some important questions when evaluating club memberships.

Private or Public?
Some clubs are private; the only members allowed are residents of the neighborhood. Others are open to non-residents. Still others offer memberships by invitation only.

Membership Levels?
Clubs offer a variety of membership levels which may include a combination of golf, social or swim privileges. Fees can be paid either monthly or annually, with a few clubs offering lifetime memberships for one initial investment. Some memberships can even be made on a refundable basis.

Dining Fees?
Most area clubs surveyed require a monthly or annual food minimum to be spent in the club restaurants. Only one did not require a dining fee or food minimum.

For detailed information about our survey, please contact Gina Lorenzo at 704.545.7605 or gina@yourpropertypeople.com.

Makeup Dates for Union County Schools

Helpful information for parents of kids in Union County Schools: The makeup dates for the recent weather-related school closings have been posted. Please see our Marvin Elementary School web site for a copy of the makeup dates for all Union County schools: http://mres.ucps.k12.nc.us/news/jump.php?news_id=7771!

Featured Broker: Julie Jenkins, Broker/Realtor NC/SC

This week's featured broker is Julie Jenkins, Realtor/Broker in North Carolina and South Carolina! Here is Julie’s bio:

"I have lived in Charlotte the last 12 years and have been amazed with the growth and all that this city has to offer. Real Estate is my passion and I truly enjoy helping people with selling and buying their homes. I work hard to meet the needs of all my clients and I will do the same for you. Whether you are buying or selling, I will walk you through the sales process and be there every step of the way. I specialize in Union County, South Charlotte, and Fort Mill. If you are in the market to buy or sell, contact me today and let’s get started!"

Contact Julie at 704-604-1808 or visit her web site at http://www.julesrulesrealty.com.

Featured Property: Luxury Home in Chatsworth Neighborhood (Waxhaw, NC)

Announcing a luxurious 5,200 square feet home with an additional 2,500 sf walk-out basement in the beautiful neighborhood of Chatsworth in Waxhaw, NC!

The property features a three-car garage on the main level and a separate single-car garage at basement-level. The main living areas are simply gorgeous, with wide plank hardwood floors throughout. The kitchen features cherry glazed cabinets. The home also boasts three fireplaces, two of which are wood-burning. The home is nestled on a one-acre lot and is zoned for the desirable A+ Marvin School district!

For more information and photos, please see our web site or contact Gina Lorenzo at 704.545.7605 or gina@yourpropertypeople.com.