Neuse Realty Blogger

Why Move to New Bern?

2009-04-02T15:28:00.008-05:00

Why would you move to New Bern? The better question is perhaps, "Why wouldn't you move to New Bern"? The city has so much to offer besides the mild, yet seasonal climate, making recreation a year round event!

New Bern is a city rich in History: it is nearly 300 years old and about to have it's 300th year celebration. New Bern was the Colonial Capital of North Carolina and has many historic homes dating back to the 1700's, as well as Govenor Tryon's house, the Tryon Palace. The homes and historic businesses have been preserved, partly due to the help of the New Bern Historical Society, the New Bern Preservation Foundation and the City of New Bern. Tours of homes are offered to the public during the annual New Bern Homes & Gardens Tour as well as the Ghost Walk.

The many fine attributes of New Bern have attracted countless retirees as well as families based at Cherry Point MCAS. The mix of people from all over the country has helped to make the city rich in culture: a small city with big city elements. There are festivals and symphonys, art galleries and fine dining, historic homes and new homes, golf courses and kayak trails...the list goes on. I have provided several links below to get you started.

http://www.newbern300.com/index.html

http://www.newbern-nc.org/

http://www.visitnewbern.com/

http://www.tryonpalace.org/

http://www.marcia-joy.com/new-bern-real-estate/all-new-bern.htm

Or just come see us and I''ll show you around!

Marcia

What Are You Doing ?"

2009-03-10T14:12:00.014-05:00

I think it all started with "Ed TV". Most of us don't remember the movie directed by Ron Howard, starring Matthew McConaughey. It was a movie about reality TV. The main character, Ed, signed an agreement to have a television crew film him during every aspect of his life and millions of viewers watched him, live. After much disillusionment, the only way Ed could "opt out" of his contract was to threaten to reveal a "private" implant operation of one of the male producers. It left us all thinking that reality TV was immoral and an invasion of privacy.

But "Survivor" started a surge in television shows ranging from Bachelors picking Brides to Jessica Simpson picking out Egyptian sheets to Ozzie Ozborne cursing at his children. New shows seemed to pop up daily showing us what people were doing, all over the world.

Then came the portals that allowed us to tell everyone, who cared to listen, what we were doing. We could text message, email, instant message, go to a chat room, blog, post on MySpace, FaceBook, LinkedIn, etc. But as quickly as we were learning to overcome all our fears about posting photos, sharing news with our friends and family via the Internet, along came a simple "Twitter".

Twitter touts itself as a "service for friends, family, and co–workers to communicate and stay connected through the exchange of quick, frequent answers to one simple question: What are you doing?" Signing up to Twitter is as easy as defining who you are and who you will "follow". Posting a "Tweet" and answer to the question "what are you doing" will send and automatic email and phone message to everyone following your stream. You can even set up your post to go to different places such as your FaceBook "wall". Suddenly, everyone knows what you are doing every second of the day, if you would like, and members of Congress are Tweeting" during Session. Wow, what an onslaught of information!

What's next for us? I don't know, but if you find out, Twitter me.

Marcia

http://twitter.com/new_bern

We're Still Selling!

2009-02-06T11:58:00.003-05:00

The title of this blog can be deceiving as are some statistics. While most real estate companies in most cities can say, "We're still selling", the question is, "Where, to whom and how much". It is also important to know how many months supply your city has on the market, often referred to as the "absortion rate".

The New Bern Multiple Listing Service primarily covers Craven, Pamlico and Jones counties. The population density is heaviest in Havelock and New Bern, both located in Craven County. Since MCAS Cherry Point continues to grow, you would assume that the areas near the Air Station, specifically New Bern and Havelock, would continue to sell; and you would be right! An additional point is that most of these marines are young and therefore first time buyers, with nothing to sell before they buy and very loan worthy. (A Realtor side note: these are usually not lucrative sales since the price level is low but much more fulfilling, which I prefer. If you have never worked with a Marine family, you are missing one of the best parts of real estate sales.)

So how were our sales in 2008? Havelock closed 260 homes in 2008 and as of today, there are 110 on the market. That means there is less than a 6 month supply available, indicating a sellers market. WOW! The city of New Bern did not fare quite as well with available homes at 331, closed sales for 2008 at 331; more than a 12 month supply which is clearly a buyers market and yet, selling more than most cities across the US.

You can search for homes in Havelock and New Bern at http://www.marcia-joy.com/new-bern-real-estate/all-new-bern.htm , look at the City of Havelock homepage at http://www.cityofhavelock.com/ , or look at New Bern's 300 year celebration site at http://newbern300years.com

Marcia

20th Sunday Jazz Schowcase: a Tribute to Benny Goodman

2009-01-22T10:09:00.001-05:00

The Sunday Jazz Showcase brings together top talent from all over and is a highly anticipated New Bern event for the past 20 years! The performances take place at the Sheraton Hotel Ballroom. This year the tribute is to the great Jazz Artist, Benny Goodman. The date is Sunday, February 8, 2009. Tickets go quickly to this popular event. Tickets for the 1:30 pm performance are $30 for members of Craven Arts Council and Gallery and $35 for nonmembers; tickets for the 7 pm performance are $25 for members and $30 for nonmembers. Tickets are available at the Craven Art Council and Gallery, 317 Middle St. New Bern and can also be ordered by phone at 252-638-2577. To get more information go to http://www.craventarts.org/. We look forward to seeing you at one of these grand performances.

New Bern, Havelock and Surrounding Area Sales

2009-01-18T16:04:00.003-05:00

While it is true that home sales have decreased in our area, we are not as dramatically hit as the rest of the country seems to be, at least in moderate price ranges. This chart, compiled by New Bern MLS data, shows that homes less than $250k are selling. More homes in this price range sold last year than are currently listed. This takes a 12 month period into account (not a true absorption figure according to some experts) but it is a good measure of what is available and what is in demand.

Why are we still selling homes in our area? One reason is the influx of military personnel to our Marine Base in Havelock: Cherry Point Marine Air Station. Many of the pilots and crew are first time buyers and have no house to sell. They are still one of the only groups that can get 100% financing through the VA.

How is this valuable and to whom? As a builder, I would build spec homes under $250k and choose an area convenient to the MCAS. As a buyer, I would know which homes would, most likely, be more negotiable and as a seller, I would how much competition I have and how it is affected.

Marcia Werneke

Halloween Events in New Bern NC!

2008-10-24T10:55:00.003-05:00

Halloween is celebrated by many people, old and young, and New Bern has events for everyone!

Both adults and children can enjoy one of the longest running events, New Bern Historical Society's 18th annual Ghostwalk! Entitled, Spirits of the Neuse, this years "ghoulishly" thrilling event has a maritime theme. "Spirits" from New Bern's maritime past will share their stories as your are guided through historic homes, buildings and the Cedar Grove Cemetery.

Tickets are $20 the day of tour and $10 for Active military and children under 21. Event days are October 24th & 25th from 5-9pm. For more information, visit www.newbernhistorical.org or call 252-633-8558.

Adults can wear their chilling costumes and twirl the night away at the River Town Ball Room on Pollock Street. For a mere $10, costumed participants can eat, enter costume contests and take a dance lesson on October 24th from 8-11pm.

The annual Parade of Preschoolers will be held downtown on October 3oth beginning at 9:30. Children will parade through the town adorned in costume. This event is organized by New Bern Parks and Recreation, the Craven County Cooperative Extension Service and Smart Start's Parents as Teachers program. To participate in the parade, call 252-639-2902.

Even our pets can join in the fun during the 1st Annual Howl'oween Pet Parade hosted by the Colonial Capitol Humane Society. Dogs can wear their favorite costumes and enter contests, win prizes and preform "tricks for treats". You and your pet will have a "howling" good time and possibly win some great prizes. This event, MC'd by Skip Waters, has been moved to Saturday, November 1st at Lawson Creek Park. The event is free but there is a $10 charge to enter in the costume contests.

October in New Bern!!!

2008-09-26T10:19:00.003-05:00

New Bern is full of activity most of the year but October is HOT. One of the largest events is the 28th year of Mum Fest! Attracting over 80,000 visitors to New Bern, this award winning event combines family fun and entertaiment.

Continuing this year are many of our favorites such as the Boat Show at Union Point Park. A stroll through the park will reveal boats of all sizes from Kayaks to 60 foot powerboats as well as maritime exhibits and military vessels. A passerby can actually watch the construction of a wooden dinghy or relax and enjoy the flotilla. New this year to the maritime fun are boat rides on the Lookout Cruise, a 45 foot catamaran with plenty of cushioned seats. Adults ride one hour for $15, children 12 and under just $12.

Performances are varied beginning with music from well known groups such as David Dyer and the Crooked Smile Band, Cold Biscuit, Deja Groove, The Dana Scott Trio and the Pickin' and Grinnin' Band. Roaming through the crowds are roving magicians, jugglers, stilt walkers, clowns, historic characters, choral, dance groups, barbershop quartets and more.

Look to the sky for the world aerobatic competitor Hubie Tolson who will perform daily daredevil aerobatics. Showtime is 1pm over the Neuse River.

There are many, many more attractions found at www.mumfest.com or just stop by downtown New Bern October 11th and 12th and see for yourself! You won't be disappointed.

Romeo & Juliet...

2008-08-06T13:53:00.006-05:00

What could be more fitting than to bring "Romeo & Juliet" to New Bern for the 10th anniversary of the Carolinian Shakespeare Festival. This play is certainly a favorite incorporating comedy, drama, action and of course, romance. The actors were chosen from more than 200 auditions from New Bern and New York.
You can enjoy the play from July 31st through August 17th at the New Bern Civic Theatre. Tickets start at $18 for adults and $5 for students. For more information, you can visit the Carolinian Shakespeare Festival's web site at http://www.csfest.net/
As a side note, I met the director, Mary McGinley, last night at a painting class. Mary is full of enthusiasm for how well the show is doing and the enthusiasm of the audience....don't miss it!

Art Walk...Don't Miss It!

2008-07-11T12:12:00.002-05:00

Tonight's Art Walk will be a crowd pleaser! The Craven Arts Council and Twin Rivers' Artist Association is inviting the public to the opening reception of The Bank of the Arts Regional Juried Art Show. This is a tremendous opportunity to view some of the best of what our local artists' have to offer as well as make a fabulous purchase (or two)! For more information, visit www.cravenarts.org

More fun will ensue at Art & Materials, 219 Middle St. They have a new gallery open today featuring great works by Dee Mayer, Jane Needham, Nada Behr, Vicki Vitale, Sandy Bruno and Tessi Adams as well as offer refreshments. Visit their site at www.artandmaterials.com

At least 10 art related shops and 4 "friends" of the Art Walk will be open tonight. Future Art Walks are September 12th and November 14th. For more information, contact the Craven Arts Council & Gallery, Inc at 252-638-2577.

See you there tonight from 5-8.

Air Show at MCAS Cherry Point Air Show

2008-05-21T14:04:00.004-05:00

Hold on to your hats as the Blue Angels return to The MCAS Cherry Point Air Show! North Carolina's largest airshow is sure to be a winner. Beginning on 5pm Friday June 6th the main features are afterburners, rocket trucks, pyrotechnics, skydivers, a wall-of-flame, fireworks display, food, venders, etc. Saturday & Sunday, June 7th and 8th will feature the usual but extremely interesting historic and modern military displays military and civilian air demonstrations, simulators, activities, rides and more. The grand finale is the Navy's Blue Angels. If you have never been to this event, be sure not to miss it this year. Admission is free as well as areas for blanket seating. For more information, call 866-wings-nc or go to www.cherrypointairshow.com

Neuse River Day

2008-05-16T12:36:00.003-05:00

Get ready for the fun and exciting Neuse River Day, May 31 2008. The event, hosted by the Neuse River Foundati0n, begins at 9am at Union Point Park. Land events will include environmental exhibitors, live music, entertainers, arts and craft venders and food. Water events include kayak, canoe and raft races. Although the water events begin at in the morning, be sure to stay for the afternoon Great Rubber Duck Race and Cardboard Box Canoe Race. The complete schedule is posted at http://www.neuseriverkeepers.org/neuseriverday.html

The Neuse River Foundation is also asking for volunteers to contact:

Pat Gulley, Events Coordinator, events@neuseriver.org, 252-637-7972

Tea and Dessert with Nicholas Sparks

2008-05-13T11:03:00.003-05:00

New Bern resident and author Nicholas Sparks will host a fund raiser to benifit The Friends of the New Bern-Craven County Public Library. Entitled, "Tea and Dessert with Nicholas Sparks", he will not only discuss his upcoming book, "The Lucky One", but will also talk about his upcoming movie release, "Nights in Rhodanthe".

Nicholas Sparks draws a tremendous crowd at every book signing and charitable event so sign up early, the tickets are a mere $12. The event is May 20th at The Flame Banquet Centre.

Parade of Homes Success!

2008-04-28T15:06:00.003-05:00

The 2008 Spring Parade of Homes was a huge success with 58 homes on tour and 34 local builders participating. Some of New Bern's newest communities were open for the first time and the latest trends in construction were on display.
Residential Builders Billy & Donna Russel, owners of Kit Corp, displayed the latest in bath fixtures, flooring, trim and home media in their new construction at 128 East Ag Drive. Kit Corp, well known for their quality construction and exceptional design, ushered hundreds of visitors through their newest model during the 2 weekends of the parade. To see a virtual tour of the home, click the following link http://www.TopAMS.com/?t=440

"Death, Taxes...and Chocolate" World Premier

2008-04-13T12:49:00.003-05:00

New Bern has so much to offer and now our fair city will host the world premier of the movie, "Death, Taxes...and Chocolate"! Written by local resident Andrea Levinson, presented by A Levinson Film and Sheffield Films in Association with Sheffield Entertainment Television, the premier will be held at the New Bern Riverfront Convention Center on April 20. A Red Carpet Extravaganza featuring the movie, chocolate & wine reception and opportunities to meet the writer director and actors begin at 1:30 for $50 per person, $75 for 2. At 6:30 pm, there is a general admission presentation featuring movie, popcorn & soda for $10.

Don't miss the opportunity to see this "dark chocolate comedy". It has a surprise ending that Levinson won't give away. You can see more about the movie and purchase products on their website at http://www.deathtaxesandchocolate.com/home.html , email alevinsonfilm@yahoo.com or call 252-638-3311

Tryon Palace Gardens

2008-04-04T12:42:00.002-05:00

As a correction to my last post, the Tryon Palace Gardens will offer free admission to ALL April 11th, 12th and 13th. Dubbed Garden Lovers Weekend, the palace will be in full bloom with thousands of tulips as well as other spring blooms. The gardens open from 9am to 6pm Friday and Saturday and 11am to 6pm on Sunday.

Complimenting this event is the Heritage Plant Sale, the 11th and 12th from 9am to 5pm on the Palace Grounds. This sale offers the public a chance to purchase unique, rare and historic plants featuring perennials, annuals, herbs, trees and shrubs, all grown in the Tryon Palace Greenhouse!

Don't miss an opportunity to stop at the Palace Garden Shop with Open House from 10am to 5pm Friday and Saturday. Besides the spring planting ideas and new products, there will be craft demonstrations and plenty of food.

There will be something for everyone at the Tryon Palace! For more information, go to http://www.tryonpalace.org/gardenloverweekend.html

Spring in New Bern

2008-04-01T13:15:00.002-05:00

Spring is here and New Bern begins it's Spring Events. The most popular, year after year, is the Spring Historic Homes & Gardens Tour. April 11th & 12th from 10am to 5pm, you will have the opportunity to tour 17 homes and gardens in 2 different historic districts. The homes change from year to year so it never gets "old". Tickets are $15 in advance or $20 the days of the tours. A ticket is good for both days and will entitle you to free admission to Tryon Palace Gardens. It is a wonderful time to view the Garden's tulips and other beautiful spring blooms. For more information, you may contact the New Bern Historical Foundation at 252-638-8558.

This same weekend will host the 4th annual New Bern Jazz & Blues Fest at the New Bern Riverfront Convention Center! This festival offers world class jazz and blues musicians and includes the talents of Melvin Taylor and Nnenna Freelon. Tickets are $30 each evening. For information and online tickets visit www.jazzpreservationsociety.com or www.newbernjazzandbluesfest.com

If you need more to fill your weekend, on Friday evening, the 11th, you can stroll the streets of downtown New Bern and experience the art work of local talents at the Downtown New Bern Art Walk! From 5-9, downtown shops and galleries will open and exhibit the work of local talents. This is a free event you won't want to miss.

50th Anniversary Big Rock T-Shirts

2008-03-27T14:28:00.002-05:00

Ther're almost here! The 50th anniversary Big Rock Tournament T-Shirts will be available April 5th. Many of us near the coast purchase at least one Big Rock T-Shirt every year and this is a special year. You can purchase online or visit one of the locations on the newsletter. Events are set as well and can be found on http://www.thebigrock.com/OnlineNewsletter . Happy Fisahing!

St. Patrick's Day in New Bern

2008-03-17T11:56:00.003-05:00

Many cities across the U.S. host a St. Patrick's Day Parade and New Bern is no exception. There were floats, bands and lots of green everywhere! The parade lasted about 45 minutes and coursed through the streets of downtown New Bern with crowds of people cheering and waving green hats. The photograph, curtesy Liz Bowles, Charlie Hall and the Sun Journal Newspaper, depicts one of the floats in the parade. It is topped with children from the St. Paul's Education Center who appear enjoying the ride tremendously. More details of the parade can be found on www.newbernsj.com.
After the parade, there were plenty of pubs offering green ale and music, The Chelsea Restaurant in downtown New Bern hosted Irish singer Jennifer Licko at 2pm. For more details visit on the singer visit www.jenniferlicko.com

Parade of Homes

2008-03-14T14:53:00.003-05:00

The 2008 Spring Parade of Homes is nearly here! This is a tremendous opportunity for buyers and homeowners. It gives buyers the opportunity to view over 50 new homes in the area. It also gives them the advantage of comparing neighborhoods and builders. Property owners looking for a quailty builder have time to look and compare the standards of many different builders. Homeowners who are looking to redo rooms can get ideas, see new products and view the quality of various sub contractors. Lets not forget those who are just looking for something different to do! Look for more information in the Sun Journal Newspaper or email me at marcia@neuserealty.com. The touring dates are April 19th, 20th, 26th & 27th from noon until 5pm.

First Baby Born 2008

2008-01-04T16:03:00.000-05:00

As luck would have it, Craven County's first baby born in 2008 is a Marine Baby! Gionni was born to Corporal Natalie Colon and her husband, Josue. The proud mother is currently stationed at Cherry Point Marine Corps. Both mother and father have served in Iraq.
Those of us that work with Marine families and know the tremendous amount of sacrifice those families make for us are always proud to read about them. For the complete article by Sun Journal Staff, Nickie Mayo, go to http://www.newbernsj.com/news/colon_38005___article.html/first_baby.html
or visit the www.newbernsj.com and research the articles from 1/3/08.

Candelight Tour...Wow!

2007-12-20T15:05:00.000-05:00

After residing in New Bern for over 12 years, I finally attended the Tryon Palace Candelight Tour. I went with my husband and 18 year old daughter who was home from college. My daughter, Annie, summed up the tour nicely by saying it was, "Awsome!" and it was! I had no idea there would be so many things to see and do. The candles added to the atmosphere as well as the sounds of the flutes and drums from the Fife and Drum Corps.

For a much better display of photos and information, visit http://www.tryonpalace.org/photogallery.html and be sure to get tickets for next year. I will!

If You Miss the Ghost Walk...

2007-10-18T11:46:00.000-05:00

If you miss the ghost walk, you can still learn about New Bern's connection to the Civil War and take a self guided tour. The details and maps can be downloaded from http://www.visitnewbern.com/heritagetours/heritage_tour_civil_war.htm

If you would like to access other walking tours of New Bern, visit
http://www.visitnewbern.com/heritage_tours.htm

New Bern Ghost Walk 2007

2007-10-08T09:53:00.000-05:00

It's time again for one of my favorite New Bern events, our annual Ghost Walk! This year will feature 35 "ghosts" from the Civil War Era with tours of 20 historic homes and sites. The ghostly dates are October 26th and 27th with a Sneak Preview of the Cedar Grove Cemetary, circa 1799, on October 25th. The cemetary is considered by many, myself included, to be one of the highlights of the tour. There are several areas of the cemetary where "ghosts" are stationed to tell their timely and sometimes comical tales. Don't miss it!

Proceeds from the event benefit preservation and educational programs of the New Bern Historical Society. For more information, times and pricing, visit http://www.newbernhistorical.org/ or call 252-638-8558

Bridge Floats Away

2007-08-03T12:00:00.000-05:00

While showing a stunning waterfront condominium yesterday, my client turned to me and remarked, "There goes the bridge". I looked out the window at the expansive Neuse River and saw the swing portion of New Bern's Alfred Cunningham Bridge floating down the river on 2 barges. What a thrilling site!

For a bit of background, the bridge was closed a few months ago and will be completely rebuilt. It was opened in 1955, withstood many a hurricane but could no longer be repaired. I have linked a video of the removal process http://www.wcti12.com/MediaStation.asp?VIDREF=mms://206.107.99.17/NewsFeatures/feat12.wmv but if you can't see it from this link, go to http://www.wcti12.com/ and look at the video of the bridge.

The photo above is courtesy Emily Helling. Enjoy!

Big Rock Winner!

2007-06-18T11:21:00.000-05:00

Wow...what a finish for the tournament this year. Read below to get the stats:

Bak Bar wins 49th 'Big RockBruce

Paul, Media Director

June 16, 2007

Bak Bar made last call at the 49th annual Big Rock Blue Marlin Tournament’s weigh station Friday, weighing in a 613-pounder to win $800,839 from the event’s $1,568,950 purse.Bak Bar captain Tommy Lewis, Huger, S.C., reached Morehead City just after 11 p.m. with a blue marlin that his son, Montukie, needed nearly six hours to land. Fifteen hours later, when no bigger fish were caught during the final hours of fishing, the Bak Bar crew began an after-hours celebration.The Bak Bar win almost didn’t happen. Bak Bar’s blue marlin got tail wrapped and died near the bottom of the ocean four hours into the fight. For the next two hours, Montukie Lewis had to carefully reeled in the dead giant. He couldn’t set the drag too tight in rough seas or reel too fast for fear of breaking the line. “It was dead weight with a big fish at the very bottom ,” the younger Lewis said. “It was rough out there. I had to give back as much (line) as I took. I didn’t make much headway for a long time. I had to find a happy medium … but I only got tired at the end.”Once the fish was in the boat, Lewis wasn’t tired at all. The entire Bak Bar crew knew they had the potential winner.“We knew (the fish) was longer than the others,” Lewis said. “It’s a good one … a big fish. This is my happiest day. It feels great to be in this position.”Lewis’s catch was an early Father’s Day present for his dad. Ironically, all five blue marlin brought to the Big Rock scales Friday were reportedly caught by father-son teams.Bak Bar’s catch knocked Licketysplit from the top spot on the Big Rock leader board. Licketysplit, captained by Bobby Scarborough, Hatteras, took the Big Rock lead Friday afternoon with a 567-pounder reeled in by Grimesland angler David Williams. But that lead didn’t even last the night.Licketysplit tried to return the favor Saturday afternoon with a hookup three minutes before the tournament ended. Unfortunately for Licketysplit, the fish threw the hook and got away.Licketysplit competitors received $258,752 for placing second. Maggie, captained by Randy Bryant, Morehead City, finished in third place with a 505-pound blue marlin landed Friday by Beaufort angler Butch Bryant. The Maggie crew received $171,835 for finishing third.

This year's tournament has been exciting for me...I hope you enjoyed it. For more information go to www.thebigrock.com