Lake Norman Area Guide

5 Tax Credits That Can Save You Money

Lee Ann Miller Team — Wed, 24 Feb 2010 15:29:00 GMT

Take a look at the list below to see if you can start saving money this year.

Tax Credits for Solar Water Heaters

A federal tax credit makes energy-efficient solar water heaters a more affordable and sustainable option for many homeowners. Read
Tax Credits for Replacing Heating and Cooling Systems

Upgrading to an energy-efficient heating and cooling system can save hundreds on your utility bills and earn you a tax credit worth as much as $1,500. Read
Tax Credits for Replacing Your Roof

Replacing your roof with a qualifying energy-efficient metal or asphalt roof can cut your cooling bill and earn you a $1,500 tax credit. Read
Tax Credits for Adding or Replacing Insulation

A federal tax credit makes adding insulation an even cheaper way to improve your home’s energy efficiency and cut your heating and cooling bills. Read
Tax Credits for Replacing Windows, Doors, and Skylights

If money seems to be escaping through drafty windows, doors, and skylights, this federal tax credit might make energy-efficient replacements more affordable. Read

Visit houselogic.com for more articles like this.

Copyright 2010 NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS


                                                                                               www.LeeAnnMiller.com
                                                                                                 704-896-5141 Office
                                                                                                  Allen Tate Company

Lee Ann Miller Honored By Allen Tate Company

Lee Ann Miller Team — Mon, 15 Feb 2010 19:53:00 GMT

January 29th 2010

Lee Ann Miller, with the Allen Tate Company, recently received The Barbara Tate Legendary Service Award. This award is provided to the Realtor that has consistently demonstrated exceptional service to clients. This award winner has also earned a reputation for market knowledge, negotiating skills, communication skills and delivers these skills to the consumer in a manner that exceeds expectations. Additionally, the winner embraces the one-stop shopping model the Allen Tate Company provides and has partnered with our family of companies to deliver a comprehensive real estate experience to the client. Only one award company-wide is given each year. Lee Ann Miller has been honored with this, the highest of all Allen Tate awards for the year 2010. She recieved awards for the Masters Circle, President's Club (Over $200 Million in Sales) & Top Team.

Lee Ann Miller has a full service real estate team, in the Lake Norman office, where she has been helping clients move up, move out, or move on since 1987. For information about Lee Ann Miller and her team visit www.LeeAnnMiller.com

704-896-5141 Office

www.LeeAnnMiller.com

New Changes to Huntersville, NC Traffic Woes

Lee Ann Miller Team — Thu, 11 Feb 2010 19:36:00 GMT

We thought this information would benefit everyone that lives, works and/or shops in this area. Please take a moment to view the maps.

The first link is to the new traffic pattern design that has been approved & funded for the widening of Sam Furr Road.

http://www.huntersville.org/Planning%20Info/Quadrant%20Figure%20-%20Revised%20Lane%20Configuration%202_13_09.pdf

The second link is to the proposed changes to the overall traffic flow

http://www.huntersville.org/downloads/transportation/SamFurrRoadInterchangeModificationStudy/173377_alternative_3rev.pdf

704-896-5141 Office

www.LeeAnnMiller.com

Is Charlotte, NC still in the Housing Market Gutter?

Lee Ann Miller Team — Wed, 27 Jan 2010 18:51:00 GMT

January 27th 2010

Business Insider recently posted 21 cities and how they are doing in this market. Take a look at the Charlotte market.

Charlotte, North Carolina

Monthly Change (October to November): 0.27%

Current Rate of Collapse (Y/Y): -5.51%

Peak To Trough: -11.13%

To view the good and bad of the other 20 cities, click on the link below
http://www.businessinsider.com/hows-your-city-doing-2010-1#charlotte-north-carolina-10

While this is good news to the Charlotte real estate market; remember real estate is not a national market but a local market.
So let's spread the good news about Charlotte!! --The Lee Ann Miller Team

704-896-5141 Office
www.LeeAnnMiller.com
Allen Tate Company

Mill SOLD in Mooresville, NC

Lee Ann Miller Team — Thu, 14 Jan 2010 16:00:00 GMT

Burlington Industries mill in Mooresville SOLD
Jan 13, 2010 - The Charlotte Business Journal

A New York-based company has purchased a massive and vacant textile mill on South Main Street in Mooresville.

Concord Global Trading plans to open a retail/wholesale center for furniture at the 38-acre site. It used to house a Burlington Industries plant.

Concord Global intends to open the Wow Home Furnishing store in May with inventory valued at $3 million to $4 million.

The company paid $500,000 to Cherokee Investment Properties of Raleigh for the site, which contains 755,000 square feet of indoor space. The plant was built in 1895 and bought by Burlington in 1955. Burlington closed its denim production at the site in 1999 as part of a major restructuring.

The site has seen three redevelopment schemes that failed to be built. Burlington and Fluor Corp. proposed a racing-themed business park a few months after the plant closed.

In 2002, Cherokee Investment announced the $15 million Victory Lane Mills, a low-density business park. Later plans called for a $175 million high-density, mixed-use community called Mooresville Mills.

Concord Global owns two other Wow Home Furnishing sites. They are in Fort Lawn, S.C., and Jefferson, Ga.

www.LeeAnnMiller.com
Allen Tate Company
704-896-5141 Office

Good Results and Predictions for Charlotte, NC Housing Market

Lee Ann Miller Team — Wed, 16 Dec 2009 16:33:00 GMT

Nov-Dec 2009

GOOD NEWS to Report...

John Connaughton, UNCC economist, predicts that next year, the state's economy will grow 2.8 percent, following this year's 3.6 percent decline. N.C. businesses are expected to add nearly 33,000 jobs next year, with growth in more than half of the state's economic sectors - including finance and real estate, which took massive hits in the recession, Connaughton said. He expects the
construction, services and government fields to post the biggest gains in 2010.

Cities Where Housing Is on the Mend
(12/09/2009) The recovery is swiftest in those areas that didn't have as much of a housing price run up to begin with, either because the in the 100 largest metropolitan statistical areas. Then it calculated the percentage of loans that are descending further into delinquency vs. those that are improving. Recovering the most quickly: Raleigh #6, Greensboro #21, Charlotte #27, Greenville #51 Click here for full article <http://tiny.cc/RlaG4>

America's Fastest-Recovering Cities
Diversified industry and relatively stable housing give residents in these metros a measure of economic security. Raleigh/Cary #9, Greensboro #53, Charlotte #54, Greenville #66 http://www.forbes.com/2009/11/19/cities-recovery-unemployment-lifestyle-real-estate-top-ten.html

Best Bang-For-The-Buck Cities
Solid housing markets, relatively stable employment, enviable cost of living and quick commutes make these metros among the country's most affordable to live. Greenville #20, Raleigh/Cary#21, Greensboro #30, Charlotte #56 http://www.forbes.com/2009/11/30/cities-affordable-cheap-lifestyle-real-estate-housing-foreclosures.html


                                                                                              704-896-5141 Office
                                                                                               Allen Tate Company
                                                                                             www.LeeAnnMiller.com

2009 Housing Market Ends on a High Note!

Lee Ann Miller Team — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 15:43:00 GMT

As 2009 comes to a close, we want to share plenty of good news with you on the residential real estate front.

First, we are thrilled to see the federal government pass the extension and the enhancements to the home buyer’s tax credit. This will significantly help the real estate market lead the economy into stronger times. To summarize the new program:

First-time buyers are eligible for up to an $8,000 credit and now have until April 30, 2010 to be under contract (and close by June 30, 2010).
Repeat buyers who have lived in their current home for at least five consecutive years of the past eight years are eligible for a tax credit up to $6,500.
Higher income limits - Both first-timers and repeat buyers may purchase a principal residence up to $800,000. Income limits to qualify have been increased to $125,000 for single tax filers and $225,000 for joint filers.
Credits are effective NOW – The new legislation replaces the former tax credit scheduled to expire November 30. Credits do not need to be repaid – The credits for both first-time buyers and repeat buyers are true credits and do not need to be repaid unless the home is sold within three years of purchase. The credits are claimed on the buyer’s federal income tax return filed for the year they purchase their home.
Interest rates are still historically low and selection is excellent. The rates are likely to rise in March when the Feds will pull back on the purchase of mortgage-based securities. Act now to lock in those low rates

In 2009, we saw a true benefit from the previous “First time buyer’s tax credit” which this program has replaced and enhanced. We are very optimistic the new program will prove to spur even more sales activity – a true catalyst to economic improvement.

Additionally, the Lake Norman market has continued to show signs of improvement. While 2009 activity will end the year behind 2008, the second half of 2009 was stronger than 2008. We expect this trend to continue and my forecast is for 2010 to be markedly improved over 2009. There will be one critical impact in 2010 – interest rates are expected to rise in the second quarter as the Fed has indicated an intention to reduce their financial support for mortgage-backed securities which are keeping rates artificially low to spur economic growth. The time to buy or trade residential real estate will never be better than now through April 30, 2010.

Lastly, I expect prices to stabilize somewhat. While foreclosure activity remains high, the demand will improve and that inventory will be absorbed. We do not see prices rebounding to previous highs in the near future.

We look forward to assisting you with your real estate needs. Feel free to call us or visit our website at www.LeeAnnMiller.com where you will find more than 130,000 homes searchable throughout the Carolinas.

Best wishes for a very happy holiday season and New Year.

The Lee Ann Miller Team

704-896-5141 Office

www.LeeAnnMiller.com

October Home Sales Results Are In...

Lee Ann Miller Team — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 17:47:00 GMT

Carolina Multiple Listing Service (CMLS) recently released the results for the month of October, $20 million sold and $20 million closed for the Carolinas real estate market. Also, happy to report that the sales volume is up 129% (yes more than double) from October 2008 and closed volume up 44% from October 2008. We think we are starting to see a turnaround. It may be a slow & gradual rebound, but let’s be thankful for the rebound!

Contact The Lee Ann Miller Team today to begin your journey in this positive real estate market.

                                                                                            704-896-5141 Office
                                                                                          www.LeeAnnMiller.com

Purple is in!

Lee Ann Miller Team — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 17:40:00 GMT

                                                                                         704-896-5141 Office
                                                                                        www.LeeAnnMiller.com

Lake Norman Fun Facts

Lee Ann Miller Team — Thu, 24 Sep 2009 15:12:00 GMT

Lake Norman’s deepest point is over 100 ft. and has an average depth of 25 ft. Full pond is 760 ft. (above sea level).

Lake Norman holds approximately 3,400,000,000 gallons of water, having the weight of approximately 13,600,000 tons.

Lake Norman’s shoreline measures approximately 520 miles, more than the coastlines of North and South Carolina combined.

Lake Norman got it’s name from former Duke Power president Norman Cocke and is the largest man-made lake in North Carolina, and covers approximately 32,475 acres and is the larger than the Sea of Galilee.

Lake Norman is bordered by 4 counties: (1) Mecklenburg, which was named for the home province of King George III’s wife, Queen Charlotte; (2) Catawba, which was named for the Catawba Indians, who actually called themselves Eswataroa (meaning great river); (3) Lincoln, named for Benjamin Lincoln; and (4) Iredell named for James Iredell, who never saw the county.

During the Revolutionary War, a battle was fought on February 1st 1781 at almost the exact spot where the Cowan’s Ford Dam now sits. Militia General William Lee Davidson, for whom Davidson College is named, was killed in the battle.

The groundbreaking for Cowan’s Ford Dam was held on September 28th 1959. Governor Terry Sanford was the keynote speaker at the dedication of the completed dam five years later on September 29th 1964.

The first metal bridge to span the Catawba River, in this area, was built by James W. Brown & B.A. Troutman of Mooresville. They completed the bridge in 1911 and it was located about ¼ of a mile downstream from the present NC Hwy 150 bridge.

Talk about planning ahead, James B. Duke’s associates began purchasing Catawba Valley bottomland in 1901 to prepare for future power generation.

Had Lake Norman not been in place, there probably would have been a flooding of the Catawba River Valley in 1970. Severe flooding did occur in 1916 and 1940.

The Catawba River froze solid enough for horse-drawn wagons to cross on November 27th 1886 and January 19th 1887.

There have been several unusual sightings around Lake Norman, including a mysterious cat-like creature known as the Wampus, UFO’s, man sized catfish and an alligator or two.

                                                                                                                                                                                          704-896-5141 Office
                                                                                                                                                                                       www.LeeAnnMiller.com

LAST CALL!!

Lee Ann Miller Team — Tue, 01 Sep 2009 16:19:00 GMT

September 2009

I am sure you are familiar with the stimulus provision that provides an $8,000 tax credit to first-time buyers if you purchase and close on a home prior to December 1, 2009. This is an amazing opportunity for first-time buyers to take advantage of the current real estate market benefits. Just what are the current benefits?

First, affordability is at an all-time high. According to the National Association of Realtors, 72.3% of Americans can afford to buy the median priced house with their median family income. This number has never been higher since we began keeping records.

Second, interest rates remain historically low. So long as you have good credit and stable, documentable income, rates remain between 5% and 5.5% for a conventional loan. I anticipate these will rise as the economy continues to improve,

Third, inventory levels are high, providing you with a wide choice for the home of your dreams. Builder spec models, resale homes and distressed properties are all in great supply.

Lastly, the $8,000 tax credit provides you with real cash if you are a first-time buyer (or if you have not owned a home in the previous three years). Please consult with your tax advisor for details on this program.

So, why is this last call? With the tax credit currently set to expire on December 1, 2009 you have a limited time to take advantage. If you already own your own home and are considering a move, I anticipate interest rates will rise and inventory levels will drop next year. This will reduce affordability as the economy improves and make your move-up purchase more costly.

Pull the trigger now and take advantage of this last call! Contact The Lee Ann Miller Team today!


                                                                                                  704-896-5141 Office
                                                                                                 www.LeeAnnMiller.com

50 Things To Do In & Around Charlotte, NC

Lee Ann Miller Team — Thu, 20 Aug 2009 15:36:00 GMT

                            50 Things to do in & Around Charlotte, NC-the Queen City
                                              (The 50 Things to do are in no particular order & are suggestions)

• Reed's Gold Mine- Documented as the site for the 1st gold discovery and the 1st gold rush in the United States. Today, you can enjoy panning for gold, guided tours of underground tunnels, view gold & mining exhibits & have a picnic. Fun for the entire family. For more information visit www.nchistoricsites.org/reed/reed.htm

• US National Whitewater Center- 300 acres for your enjoyment nestled along the side of the Catawba River and only minutes from Charlotte, NC. The US Whitewater Center is perfect for the adventurous or businesses wanting to work on team building. The Center includes: 11 miles devoted to walking trails, bike trails & running trails, a class III-IV rapids for rafting or kayaking on the World's largest, man-made, recirculating river, a flat water paddling tour on 1.5 acres in the beautiful Catawba River, a climbing center (rock wall) that is 1 of the largest man-made in the world, a team development center (ropes course) that put your skills to the test & zip lines where it is a great opportunity to see the Center from above. For information visit www.usnwc.org

• Mint Museum of Art - is a diverse facility offering gallery guides, touchable objects, hands-on workshops and Family Days that enable participants to connect to art and to each other. The Mint museum welcomes families, children, adults and seniors. For more information visit www.mintmuseum.org

• Carowinds- Entertainment for the entire family! Plan on spending the entire day at the park and pack plenty of sunscreen. Carowinds offers 112 acres of stage shows, concerts, rides, 20 acre water park and more. You may even run into some of your Nickelodeon friends. For more information visit www.carowinds.com

• Concord Mills Mall- North Carolina's #1 tourist attraction. With over 200 stores, 24 screen movie theatre, restaurants, NSACAR Speed Park, Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World and themed neighborhoods & food court; it's a true shopping adventure. For more information visit www.concordmills.com

• NASCAR Speed Park - Do you like racing? Are you adventurous? Then look no further. This racing themed park offers 5 racing tracks for all ages, an arcade, interactive games, mini golf, speed bumper boats, rock climbing, laser tag & more! For more information visit www.nascarspeedpark.com

• Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World- is the largest supplier of outdoor recreational products in the world. Do you know someone that likes to hunt, fish or camp? Then the Bass Pro Shop in Concord, NC is your store. Enjoy a rustic, outdoor theme as you stroll through the store 364 days a year. This store has something for everyone! From a large fresh water fish tank, huge stone fireplace (real fires in the winter months), women's clothing section, boats, shoes, snack stand, and a virtual shooting range. At Christmas time, Santa and his reindeer even make an appearance. For more information visit www.basspro.com

• The Billy Graham Library- Indulge into a family friendly facility that features the Graham family home place, library, bookstore & the Graham Brothers dairy bar. Take a tour of Billy Graham's extraordinary life, view art exhibits & films or take a spiritual stroll through the Prayer Garden. An attraction that everyone will enjoy. For more information visit www.billygraham.org

• Quail Hollow Championship (Formerly Wachovia Championship)- In 2003, the prestigious Quail Hollow Country Club began hosting the championship and now, it has become one of the top events on the PGA TOUR. The QHC draws players & fans to Charlotte every May where practice sessions take place Monday-Wednesday & the real action begins on Thursday. Past winners include Anthony Kim 2008, Tiger Woods 2007, Jim Furyk 2006, Vijay Singh 2005, Joey Sindelar 2004 & David Toms 2003. Who will become the next one? For more information visit www.quailhollowchampionship.com

• Ray's Splash Planet- Cool off at an one-of-a-kind indoor water park & fitness facility. Ray's splash Planet features over 29,000 square feet & 117,000 gallons of water & fun. It also offers 8 out-of-this-world water features- The Orbiter (a lazy river), Blue Comet (3 story waterslide in the shape of a figure eight), Saturation Station (4 slides & tumble buckets), The Vortex (a quick current pool that will have you swimming in circles), Meteor Showers (buckets that fill up with water and spill out), Sun Drops (water squirters), Moon Beach (gradual beach-like entry pool) & Sea of Tranquility (2 lap lanes for swimmers &/or water basketball & volleyball players). So what are you waiting for! For more information visit www.rayssplashplanet.com

• NASCAR Hall of Fame- "It Belongs Here". Charlotte was chosen as the home for the NASCAR Hall of Fame due to its rich racing history, deep roots, and the fact that lots of race teams are based in and around the Charlotte area. The Hall of Fame is scheduled to open on May 11th 2010 and it will be a state-of-the-art facility to honor NASCAR icons as well as become an enduring tribute to everyone that has made an impact to the sport in the past, present & future. You will feel a true admiration for the drivers, crew members, team owners & others involved to make racing a growing sport. The Hall of Fame will be approximately 130,000 square feet featuring the Full Throttle Theater 270 seat state-of-the-art theater for viewing historic informative NASCAR films, Glory Road which displays 15-18 historic cars along a banked road leading to second level, Hall of Honor where NASCAR Hall of Fame inductees will be honored, A Week in the Life a behind the scenes look at of what a NASCAR team and the NASCAR industry goes through to prepare a car for race day, two simulators (racing & transporter), restaurants, retail stores and more. For more information visit www.belongshere.com

• Discovery Place- is a ever-changing science, health & technology center geared towards family fun but truly is a place the whole family will enjoy. Take a walk through a live rain forest, view a film in the IMAX Theater or take a peek at some of the hands-on exhibits. For more information visit www.discoveryplace.org

• Lake Norman- is largest man-made lake in North Carolina and covers approximately 32,510 acres. Named after former Duke Power president Norman Cocke, Lake Norman is nearly as large as the other ten lakes on the Catawba combined. It is even larger than the Sea of Galilee. Lake Norman's shoreline that stretches 520 miles and its deepest point a little over 100 ft and the average depth is 25 ft, no wonder it's a growing attraction.Enjoy the sites and sounds of Lake Norman by boat or simply driving by. Swimming, boating, fishing & waterskiing are the most common actives seen but the possibilities are endless. The lake borders Catawba, Lincoln. Iredell & Mecklenburg counties. For more information visit www.visitlakenorman.org or to check out the lake level visit www.duke-energy.com/lakes/levels/lake-norman.

• Queen's Landing- is home to the Catawba Queen, a replica of a Mississippi River Paddle Wheeler and the Lady of the Lake, a luxury yacht. Two great ways to view the lake, celebrate an occasion or watch a romantic sunset. Queen's Landing also offers a Pirate Land Miniature Golf, boat launch area, Lake Norman's only Floating Dock Bar, Jack's Lakeside Grill & Jokers- a dueling piano bar. If that isn't enough during the summer, you can enjoy the Summer Music Concert Series at the Melanie Williams Ampitheatre. For more information visit www.queenslanding.com

• Birkdale Village- is located just 15-20 minutes north of Charlotte, in Huntersville, NC, and is a mixed-use complex of retail stores, specialty shops, restaurants, a movie theater, apartments & single family residential homes. With stores like American Eagle, Ann Taylor Loft, Banana Republic, Gap, Talbots, Victoria's Secret, Gap Kids, Gymboree, Janie & Jack and Dick's Sporting Goods, there's a little something for everyone. Not to mention Barnes & Noble, Williams-Sonoma and dining. Children of all ages are free to play in the interactive water fountain during operating hours. The fountain area also host the Mingling on the Green Concert Series every Friday & Saturday nights. For more information visit www.birkdalevillage.net

• Duke Power EnergyExplorium- is located at McGuire Nuclear Station and features informative/educational energy exhibits. There is also a 1 mile nature trail along the shore of Lake Norman, view a movie about Lake Norman & the community and engage in interactive games & hands on exhibits on converting energy into electricity. During the summer, you can view box office movies from the lawn or by boat. If you are in the area around June or July, The Charlotte Symphony Orchestra performs a free concert you can enjoy from your boat or stretch out on the lawn. For more information visit www.duke-energy.com/visitor-centers/energyexplorium.asp

• Cowans Ford Dam- is located just 20 miles north of Charlotte and it is the largest conventional hydro station owned by Duke Energy. After damming the Catawba River in 1963, it is responsible for creating Lake Norman, the largest man-made body of fresh water in North Carolina.It's total length is 7,387 feet, including more than a mile of earthen dam. The concrete portion of the dam is 1,279 feet long and 130 feet high. This hepls provide a dependable supply of water to Lincoln County and the communities of Davidson, Mooresville, Charlotte-Mecklenburg and Huntersville. Truly a site to see! For more information visit www.duke-energy.com/power-plants/hydro/cowans-ford.asp

• Lazy 5 Ranch- Feed over 750 animals from 6 continents through you car window or by horse drawn wagon rides. Established May 22nd 1993, the Lazy 5 Ranch became an unique, 3.5 mile, drive-thru, safari park with the purpose to educate while entertaining, as well as, provide an excellent environment for reproducing some of God's most unique creatures and help with the recovery of several endangered species including the Grevy Zebra, Scimitar Horned Oryx and Ring-tailed Lemur. Additional features found on the ranch include a walk through petting zoo, picnic area, playground, blacksmith shop, antique horse barn, snack post & trading post. The animals are waiting! For more information visit www.lazyfiveranch.com

• NC Blumenthal Performing Arts Center- is a multi-purpose arts and entertainment venue with three theaters. Enjoy Broadway shows, family attractions, celebrated headliners and international artists in this venue. The Center is also home to ten resident arts organizations, including the Charlotte Symphony, North Carolina Dance Theatre, Opera Carolina and more. For more information visit www.blumenthalcenter.org

• NBA Charlotte Bobcats- become the sixth man/woman as you cheer on the team in the Time Warner Cable Arena and witness some of the league's finest talent. For more information visit www.bobcats.com

• NASCAR Sprint All-Star Race & Coca-Cola 600 - Mark your calendar for a week in May. One of the most popular weeks in racing! Begin the week with Sprint All Star Qualifying & then The All Star Race. The All Star Race is unique and is one of the shortest. It give drivers a chance to express themselves & teams an opportunity try out new strategies or parts ,since the race doesn’t count in the points chase. The weekends with the Coca-Cola 600 a true endurance race for drivers & fans. If you're a race fan, you don't want to miss this week!    www.lowesmotorspeedway.com

• NASCAR Bank of America 500- The only Saturday night race in the points chase. This race heats up the track every October and is number 5 of the last 10 races to the Sprint Championship. For more information visit www.lowesmotorspeedway.com

• NFL Carolina Panthers- Watch a Panthers game as they host numerous teams in the Bank of America Stadium. Regular season games start in September and continue to January. For more information visit www.panthers.com

• ECHL Charlotte Checkers- Don't miss the thrill of a hockey game. The Carolina Checkers take the ice in the Time Warner Arena every October through April. For more information visit www.gocheckers.com

• Charlotte Knights- Hit a homerun with family and friends when you take them to a Charlotte Knights game. The Knights, a Chicago White Sox affiliate, are a AAA minor-league baseball team and they take the field every April through September. Don't leave early or you will miss a spectacular fireworks display after every home game. Kids will love "Homer" the team mascot. For more information visit www.charlotteknights.com

• UNC Charlotte 49ers- Experience the thrill of local Atlantic 10 Conference sport teams. The 49ers posses some of the best soccer, baseball, softball, basketball, cross country, golf, track & field, volleyball, & tennis teams in the conference. After 50 plus years, the 49ers will again add a football team to their list of sports with kickoff planned for the fall of 2013. While you’re there, take a tour of the beautiful & budding campus. For more information visit www.charlotte49ers.com

• Carolina Raptor Center- is a hospital for the injured or orphaned raptors. Their mission is "dedicated to environmental stewardship and the conservation of birds of prey through education, research, and the rehabilitation of injured and orphaned raptors". Take a tour on the 3/4 mile long natural trail where you will see around 22 different species of raptors. Also, you get a backstage pass to view each step of the rehabilitation process. This an educational experience for all ages. For more information visit www.carolinaraptorcenter.org

• South Park Mall- Shop till you drop. South Park Mall is known as a classy mall with some of your favorite upscale retailers such as Burberry, Louis Vuitton, Nordstrom, Kate Spade, Neiman Marcus & more. For a list of other retailers visit www.simon.com

• The Charlotte Museum of History- Step back in time when you visit The Charlotte Museum of History & the Hezekiah Alexander home site. The Hezekiah Alexander home is the oldest structure on the 8 acres & today the guides still wear period dressed attire as they escort you through the home & exhibits. Want to know how things were done in the past? Then don't miss a "Living History", live history interpretations. For more information & events visit   www.charlottemuseum.org

• Bob Timberlake Gallery- Take a trip north of Charlotte to Lexington, North Carolina, the home of one of Bob Timberlake's Galleries. Here you will view fine art reproductions, finely crafted furniture inspired by 18th century artisans, decorative accessories, home furnishings & menswear. The Gallery itself is a true work of art & offers the ultimate shopping experience. Bob Timberlake insist that his line be produced in the United States but preferably in Lexington, NC, his hometown. www.bobtimberlake.com

• Greater Charlotte Antiques & Collectibles Show- occurs monthly at the Cabarrus Arena & Events Center. One of the largest events of its time, Antiques & Collectibles Spectacular Show, takes place twice a year in the spring & fall. More than 2,000 dealers from around the world come together to display a wide array of quality antiques & collectibles. For more information visit www.charlotteantiqueshow.com

• EpiCentre- The Queen city's newest entertainment headquarters. The EpiCentre contains a first class movie theaters, bowling alley and a multitude of retail stores, restaurants and nightclubs. The restaurants vary from fine dining to coffee shops and an array of nightclubs from a Country/Rock bar (Whisky River) to a dueling piano bar (Howl At The Moon). There's also a upscale lounge/bar, if that's more your style (Suite). All the nightclubs overlook the large Pavilion, which is home to the "Alive After Five" a summer concert music series. For more information visit www.epicentre-charlotte.com

• Whisky River- Party like a race car driver at Dale Earnhardt Jr's personal bar. Whisky River, located in the EpiCentre, features the eclectic blend of Rock & Country music. So kick up your heels and head to Whisky River where you can soak up some local music, dance to your favorite DJ, ride a mechanical bull, have a drink or two at a VIP table, or watch many sporting events on 14 flat screens & 3 (10') projection TV's in 1090i HD. Sure to be an uptown hot spot for years to come. Good job Dale! For more information visit www.whiskyrivercharlotte.com

• Tour Local Wine Vineyards- Two of the most recognized vineyards in the area are the Childress Vineyards & Shelton Vineyards. *Childress Vineyards, located in Lexington, NC, is proving to be another victory for Richard Childress, race team owner. Childress Vineyards is a 35,000 square foot facility inspired by Italian Renaissance Architecture with approximately 65 acres of vineyards. Discover the state-of-the-art Production Center, designed to be a highly interactive experience with an Old World atmosphere. Here you can see, hear, smell, & taste the wine making experience from vine to bottle. See why Childress Vineyards is taking the checkered flag in North Carolina. Also, every weekend in May-October "Music in the Vineyards" & every Thursday in June until end of August, "Wine Down Thursdays", indulge in live music while sipping wine. For more information visit www.childressvineyards.com    *Shelton Vineyards, located in Dobson, NC, started out as a hobby for two brothers, Shelton brothers. Today it is one of the largest vineyards on the East Coast and features a 33,000 square foot gravity flow facility. Shelton Vineyards offers tours & tastings, reserve tasting, restaurant-the Harvest Grill, and walking trail. Also, outdoor concert May-September "Shelton at Sunset" and in October, “Harvest Festival"-a family event. For more information visit www.sheltonvineyards.com

• Daniel Stowe Botanical Gardens- With over 110 acres of themed gardens, a dozen fountains & an ever changing floral show it easy to see why HGTV named DSBG one of the nation's "20 Great Gardens". It is also a popular location for weddings, anniversary parties & other celebrations. For more information visit www.dsbg.org

• The Federal Reserve Bank of Charlotte- is a operational & regional center for the Carolinas. Take a tour a view the history of currency & coin in the United States from the Colonial Days to the Present. Sure to have you seeing dollar signs. Don't miss the special display on the gold mining era in the Piedmont region. For more information visit www.richmondfed.org

• Schiele Museum of Natural History & Planetarium- where Science, Nature & History come to life. Study lifelike exhibits filled with live animals and/or mounted specimens, vegetation & land formations showcasing collections of North American birds, mammals & reptiles. Explore the James H Lynn Planetarium where you can get an un obscure view of the sky, the stars stay out all day & it's Charlotte's only planetarium. Appreciate interpretations of History & Present day lifestyles in the outdoor exhibits such as the Catawba Indian Village, Stone Age Heritage Site & an 18th Century Backcountry Farm. There is also a natural trail and Memorial Wildlife Garden for your enjoyment. For more information about the Schiele Museum in Gastonia,NC or Featured Exhibits, visit www.schielemuseum.org

• Historic South End -,also known as South End, is the neighborhood immediately south of uptown Charlotte. It first began with Charlotte's first railroad line that connected the Queen city to Columbia & Charleston, SC. It was a blooming textile center until the late 1970's to early 80's when plants began to shut down. It wasn't until the 1990's when South End got its second chance with restaurants, shops & design related stores anchored in some of the old mills & warehouses. Today South End is still growing with an eclectic mix of retail stores, restaurants, design centers, upscale historic homes, lofts, apartments & condo's. The newest addition, Charlotte's Light Rail, will only continue the revitalization of the Historic South End of Charlotte. For more information visit www.historicsouthend.com

• Latta Plantation & Nature Preserve- was once James Latta's flourishing cotton plantation complete with livestock, crops, a mill & a quarry in the 19th century. Today, it is Mecklenburg's largest nature preserve with over 1,300 acres and is also home to the Carolina Raptor Center, Latta Plantation Equestrian Center & Historic Latta Plantation. Enjoy many outdoor actives such as Segway tours, hiking trails, horse or pony rides, horseback riding lessons, Civil War reenactments or take a tour of the restored Latta Plantation Home. Lots to do and worth the trip. For more information visit www.lattaplantation.org

• North Carolina Auto Racing Hall of Fame- is dedicated to all types of racing from drag racing to stock cars. Located in Mooresville, NC also known as "Race City USA", the Hall of Fame features a display of 35 race cars from all types of racing, view some of racings best highlights over the years in the Goodyear Mini Theater, appreciate photos & renderings from some of the motorsports' top artist in the Art Gallery & purchase the widely popular "The Fan's Guide to Race Shops" in the Gift Shop. For more information visit www.ncarhof.com

• Lowe's Motor Speedway's Feel The Thrill Tour- The half-hour tour includes an up close look at areas closed to the public during race events. Take a van ride around the superspeedway where you will feel the full-tilt force of the 24-degree banks. Plus, visit a NASCAR Sprint Cup Series garage, travel down pit road and take a picture in Victory Circle. For more information visit www.lowesmotorspeedway.com

• North Carolina Transportation Museum- is the "museum that moves you". Located in Spencer, North Carolina, the 57 acre site was once the Southern Railway Company's largest steam locomotive repair facility with a 37 bay Bob Julian Roundhouse. Today, you can take a 25 minute train ride around the historic acreage, tour the Bob Julian Roadhouse with 40 restored locomotives and rail cars, ride the ever popular Turntable and visit the Bumper to Bumper and Master Mechanics exhibits. The Bumper to Bumper exhibit features a collection of antique automobiles, ranging from a 1901 White Steam Stanhope to a 1978 Plymouth N.C. Highway Patrol car and the Master Mechanics exhibit includes a Conestoga Wagon, a corduroy road, and an amphibious plane built by a North Carolinian in his backyard! The mission of the North Carolina Transportation Museum is to "preserve & interrupt the history of transportation in North Carolina and to present this history in a manner that allows visitors to enjoy their experience as well as learn from it". They've done a fabulous job. All aboard!! For more information visit www.nctrans.org

• Children's Theatre of Charlotte- has been introducing children and educational groups to live theater since 1948 through dramas & musicals.www.ctcharlotte.org Also visit, IMAGINON, a library for the youth with exhibits and a theme of bringing stories to life. www.imaginon.com

• Levine Museum of the New South- An interactive history museum that is home to one of the best exhibits in the Southeast "Cotton Fields to Skyscrapers". It is also the nation's most comprehensive interpretation of post Civil-War Southern history. For more information visit www.museumofthenewsouth.org

• NoDa- 2 miles north of Charlotte you will find the budding artist community of Historic NoDa. Located around the corners of North Davidson Street (shortened to NoDa) & 36th street. It began in the 1900's as a small textile village until the 1975 when the last textiles were produced. In the late 1980's, young artist moved into the area with dreams of an art community. Now the area is inundated with trendy restaurants, swanky galleries & local street musicians. If you are in the area on 1st & 3rd Friday of the month, enjoy a FREE Gallery Crawl. For more information visit www.noda.org

• Visit A Race Team Headquarters-Over 80% of Sprint cup teams, 72% of Busch teams and 55% of Craftsman Truck teams call North Carolina home-and most of those are in the Charlotte's NASCAR Valley. According to the NC Motorsports Association, 73% of the state's motorsports jobs are in the Charlotte area. Drivers, pit crews, team owners and many corporate sponsors live and work within an hour's drive from Charlotte. To name a few... Roush Racing www.roushracing.com, Hendrick Motor Sports www.hendrickmotorsports.com, Michael Waltrip Racing www.michaelwaltrip.com, Joe Gibbs Racing www.joegibbsracing.com, Dale Earnhardt Jr www.dalejr.com, Richard Childress Team www.rcrracing.com, and the list goes on and on

• Carolinas Aviation Museum- Soar back in time as you relive the history of aviation in the Carolinas and around the country. Visit the Charlotte-Douglas International Airport, home to the Carolinas Aviation Museum, to view collections of the General Aviation Aircrafts, Military Aircrafts, Commercial Aircrafts, working hanger built in 1936-1937 and more. Some of the featured aircrafts are the Piedmont Airlines Douglas 1944 DC-3 (which is still active today on movie sets & air shows), Grumman OV-1D Mohawk, Bell Textron 1960 UH-1H Iroquois (prototype of the "Huey" helicopter), Boeing KC-97L Stratotanker-cockpit only (basically a B-29 expanded to become an aerial tanker) and the McDonnell Douglas F-45 Phantom II-cockpit only (greatest fighter of the post war era). Or view the aircraft in an air show across the Eastern United States. The Carolinas Aviation Museum's team of experienced airline & military flight crews have been flying high since 1996. Before you take off, the museum is also a superb place to take pictures, view planes taking off & landing, or try out the active interactive KC97 cockpit. For more information visit www.carolinasaviation.org

• Stay in a Historic Home- Each home offers a unique atmosphere and experience catered to office meetings, bed and breakfast, weddings or other social events. Duke Mansion made famous by its former owner James Buchanan Duke, the Duke Mansion is a state-of-the-art meeting and retreat facility or a cozy bed and breakfast. Here you’ll enjoy old Southern charm wrapped in twenty-first century luxury and amenities, with the added benefit of individual attention. VanLandingham Estate built in 1913 by Ralph and Susie Harwood-VanLandingham, the VanLandingham Estate offers luxurious guestrooms filled with period furnishings and a host of fine amenities and conference rooms several sites both inside and out suitable for your business needs. Nestled on five acres surrounded by Rhododendrons, Cedar trees and touches of stone, it is easy to imagine that you are embedded in the North Carolina mountains. A charming place to relax and rest your soul! T he Morehead Inn was constructed in 1917 on the corner lot of East Morehead Street and Berkeley Avenue as C.C. & Marjorie Coddington's personal residence. It was designed after Mrs. Coddington's family home in Pennsylvania. The Morehead Inn offers charm, elegance and Southern hospitality within each guest room & conference room. Enjoy a step back in time to the grace and elegance of the Victorian Era South. You won't be disappointed! For more information about each home visit www.dukemansion.com, www.vanlandinghamestate.com, www.moreheadinn.com

• Visit the College Town of Davidson, NC- A small Southern town just 30 miles north of Charlotte, but full of history and home to the prestigious Davidson College. The town began in 1835 when the Presbyterian Church funded and began the planning of Davidson College. It was then, the town was given the name Davidson College, until 1891 when they dropped College. Davidson today, is still a booming college town but maintains the character of the past. Main street is the charm of the town with wide sidewalks, specialty shops, local restaurants and small business. Some of the most well-known are the Soda Shop, Toast, Ben & Jerry's, Tom Clark Studio, & Main Street Books. Right off the exit ramp from I77, a new Davidson is evolving with apartments, townhomes, condos, single family homes, new school, and Harris Teeter. Keeping the history & character of the town takes precedence and by maintaining pedestrian friendly streets, walking trails, green space & culture, it's no wonder Davidson is a growing community for people of all ages. For more information visit www.ci.davidson.nc.us or if your a Davidson Wildcat fan visit www.davidsonwildcats.com


                                                         704.896.5141 Office
                                                                    www.LeeAnnMiller.com

Beyond Staging

Lee Ann Miller Team — Tue, 21 Jul 2009 17:49:00 GMT

                                                                                       704-896-5141 Office
                                                                                     www.LeeAnnMiller.com

Sign of Relief

Lee Ann Miller Team — Tue, 21 Jul 2009 17:42:00 GMT

                                                                                                         704-896-5141 Office
                                                                                                       www.LeeAnnMiller.com

Picture It Sold!

Lee Ann Miller Team — Tue, 21 Jul 2009 16:17:00 GMT

A picture is worth a thousand words – and maybe thousands of dollars – when it comes to selling your home. Yet sellers often neglect this most important marketing tool.

“Great photos separate your home from the competition,” said local real estate photographer Jim SchmidJim Schmid Photography

If you’re a seller, put yourself in the shoes of the buyer. Which homes do you look at first online – the ones with dark, fuzzy images that look like they were taken in a dungeon? Of course not. You are drawn to the listings with bright, wide-angle, properly exposed photos.

Professional photography of your home usually costs around $100, and it’s a worthwhile investment. What makes a great photo? Here are some tips a skilled photographer will keep in mind when taking photos of your home:

The best photos start with great subject. A home to be photographed should be in perfect condition: beds made, clutter removed, laundry put away, no cars in the driveway and no pets.
Photography should be taken using the highest resolution possible and then converted to low resolution for posting online.
The camera should always flash for interior shots. Make the room bright by opening blinds and turning on lights. “Flash” makes colors “pop” and fills in shadows.
Overcast days are best to balance interior and exterior light.
The exterior of some homes appear to slant upwards. By adjusting the angle of the camera to line it up with the angle of the home, you can get a “head on” shot.

*Photo tips courtesy of Jim Schmid Photography

                         704-896-5141
                   Allen Tate Company
                www.LeeAnnMiller.com

Buy with CONFIDENCE

Lee Ann Miller Team — Tue, 21 Jul 2009 15:48:00 GMT

                                                                                        704-896-5154 office
                                                                                     www.LeeAnnMiller.com

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