Kay Baker

Well it is back to school time here in Southeastern NC and you, as parents may be wondering if your child's school met its achievement goals for the year such as AYP or ABC. And, exactly what does that mean? Actually, four elementary schools in New Hanover did not meet its ABC goals and only one high school did meet its achievement goals. Find out all the details this week on the 2007/2008 School Report on my BLOG.

The soon to be USS North Carolina Submarine arrived at the Wilmington State Ports on the Cape Fear River on Monday. The arrival of the 377 foot nuclear powered submarine kicked off a week of special events leading up to the commissioning on Saturday. On Friday night, a July Fourth fireworks display will commence at 9PM at Riverfront Park. The invitation- only event Saturday will attract between 5-6000 people at the Port.

At a cost of $2.4 Billion, the 7800-ton vessel was built in Newport News, Va. It was christened in April 2007 and sent to sea in May 2007, undergoing extensive sea trials.

•1.More Choices. In New Hanover County, we currently have over 3000 homes on the market. Buyers have more choices today than they have in several years. You have your choice between condos, townhomes, single family homes, golf course properties, water oriented properties, gated communities. You can also choose between large lots and small lots and whether you would like lawn maintenance included or not. The choice is yours today more than ever to find a home that fits your needs and fulfills your dreams. But do remember, that well priced homes in desirable locations can still sell fast, even in a buyer's market.
•2. Interest Rates are Low. With interest rates under 6%, what better time to buy real estate! You can even afford more home now than you might have a year or so ago. It usually is a good idea to purchase as much home as you can afford in this type market. Always consult with a reputable lender to become knowledgeable about the variety of financing options available and what might be best for you. In addition, ask for a pre-qualification letter. A good buyer's agent will use this in the negotiating process. It will also ensure that you are not looking at homes that you cannot afford.
•3. Negotiate. We all remember the days of 2005 when you had to decide how much over asking price to offer the seller. Today that is a different story. A good buyer's agent can negotiate the best price and terms to suit your budget.
•4. Incentives. In a buyer's market as we have today, sellers and builders are offering a host of incentives for buyers. For instance, closing costs or buydown of the interest rate, even flat screen TV's and cruises are among popular incentives today.
•5. Competition. In today's market you do not have the worries that we did a couple of years ago, of other buyers bidding the prices up from the original price.
•6. You are not rushed into a quick decision. One of the highlights of a buyer's market is that you can take your time finding your perfect home and do not have to feel pressured to settle for anything less than the home of your dreams.
•7. Inspections. You can take the time to have a good home inspection and appraisal and negotiate with the seller any necessary repairs.
•8. Lower Prices. Buyers are in a great position today with prices so low and interest rates favorable. Buyers can enjoy stronger buying power than they have in years before. Today's market is truly positioned for the home-buyer.
•9. Appreciation. Local house values are expected to rise as our local economists have a favorable forecast for the area. Always remember, that real estate is a strong, sound investment for your future.
10. Great time to sell and move up. If you are a seller wanting to move up to larger home for your growing family, now could be the perfect time for you. You'll be way ahead of the game, because the price reduction on the purchase is greater than the loss on the sale of your present home.

According to local economists, we can look for a good year in the Cape Fear Region. UNCW economics Professor has predicted a 4.5 percent growth for the local economy of Brunswick, New Hanover and Pender Counties.

Wilmington seems to always weather the storm with its diverse and dynamic industry in the region. The downtown boom has been fueled by PPD with their new high rise world headquarters on the Northside. In addition, the North Fourth Street has experienced tremendous revitalization this past year.

New Hanover County has approved an incentive package for General Electric-Hitachi Nuclear Energy and Invista that could create over 1000 jobs. As the nuclear business resurges, GE has signed 3 new contracts for its new generation boiling water reactors and other nuclear components.

Brunswick Corp, the world's largest boat builder, took over the Rampage Yachts plant in Navassa in the summer of 2007. It will eventually employ over 850 workers.