Margaret Rudd Industry News

If you're struggling to put together stylish, inviting home decor that showcases your personality and suits your family's needs, our real estate agents know that an interior designer can help. Interior designers work to create functional, aesthetically-pleasing spaces that fit your budget. Here's what you should know about utilizing an interior designer.

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SHALLOTTE, N.C. - Brunswick County Association of REALTORS®

Brunswick County's residential real estate market appears to be returning to a more normal pace, with fewer new listings, fewer homes sold, slightly higher inventory and a slightly higher absorption rate in November compared to last year. Average sale prices were up compared to November 2021, thanks in part to a strong luxury market. On average, homes sold for 97% of their list price last month. 

"This November looked a whole lot like Novembers of the past," said Cynthia Walsh, BCAR CEO. "The market typically slows as we move through the holidays into winter, and that's what we saw in November. With that said, it's important to look at the big picture. We saw 396 sales in November, which was lower than the last couple of years, but is still on the high side of normal. Additionally, nearly 60% of the homes sold in November sold in 30 days or less, which is a pretty good clip. The bottom line is that Brunswick County's market continues to demonstrate strength as we move into what is typically a winter cool-down."

Brunswick County saw $179,500,000 in total sales volume in November, a 12.7% decrease from last year's $205,540,000. The average sales price increased 10.9%, from $408,628 to $453,283. New listings were down 5.7%, from 473 to 446. The number of units sold dropped 21.3%, from 503 to 396. The absorption rate, which is the amount of time it would take to sell all available inventory, increased from 2 to 2.5 months. Brunswick County's luxury market was strong in November, with 14 sales in excess of $1 million, the highest a $2.5 million transaction on Holden Beach.

Year-to-date sales volume through November totaled $2,347,830,000, down 4.6% from last year's $2,461,099,429. Average sales prices for the year are 11.5% higher than 2021, increasing from $395,059 to $440,574. The number of units sold through November is down 17.3%, from 6,226 to 5,152, and the number of new listings is down 10.9%, from 6,789 to 6,048.

Brunswick County

New Listings

• November 2022: 446
• November 2021: 473
• Increase/Decrease: -5.7%

Units Sold

• November 2022: 396
• November 2021: 503
• Increase/Decrease: -21.3%

Average Sales Price

• November 2022: $453,283
• November 2021: $408,628
• Increase/Decrease: +10.9%

Median Sales Price

• November 2022: $384,240
• November 2021: $330,000
• Increase/Decrease: +16.4%

Total Sales Volume

• November 2022: $179,500,000
• November 2021: $205,540,000
• Increase/Decrease: -12.7%

Bladen County

New Listings

• November 2022: 34
• November 2021: 11
• Increase/Decrease: +209.1%

Units Sold

• November 2022: 6
• November 2021: 14
• Increase/Decrease: -57.1%

Average Sales Price

• November 2022: $258,983
• November 2021: $281,854
• Increase/Decrease: -8.1%

Total Sales Volume

• November 2022: $1,550,000
• November 2021: $3,950,000
• Increase/Decrease: -60.8%

Columbus County

New Listings

• November 2022: 16
• November 2021: 22
• Increase/Decrease: -27.3%

Units Sold

• November 2022: 27
• November 2021: 24
• Increase/Decrease: +12.5%

Average Sales Price

• November 2022: $208,545
• November 2021: $198,496
• Increase/Decrease: +5.1%

Total Sales Volume

• November 2022: $5,630,000
• November 2021: $4,760,000
• Increase/Decrease: +18.3%

The Brunswick County Association of REALTORS® (BCAR) is the local association level of the largest trade association in the nation, presently serving its members, which are comprised of REALTORS®, Appraisers, and Affiliate Members. For more information, please visit http://www.bcarnc.com.

Selling your home is a big deal, but it doesn't have to be an impossible challenge. If you're thinking about moving, our real estate agents can help you avoid bad pricing advice that can keep your home on the market way too long. Take a look at six common pricing mistakes you should avoid.

1. Price Your Home Without a Market Analysis
   Pricing your home so it's comparable to prices of other homes in your surrounding area is an important sales tool. A good real estate agent will do a complete comparative market analysis (CMA) and spend a lot of time researching homes for sale and comps in your area. When a CMA is done correctly, your home should sell relatively close to the listing price and within a short amount of time after it hits the market.

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BRUNSWICK COUNTY NC - On December 1, Brunswick County Association of REALTORS® hosted a 'Harley' Holiday Party and Installation of the 2023 BCAR President and Board of Directors. The evening started with appetizers, drinks, official 'biker' temporary tattoos, and socializing with over 200 REALTORS®, affiliates, and special guests. BCARs Past President Ben Styers led the pledge and Past President Brooke Rudd-Gaglie opened up the evening with an inspirational message.

The 2023 NC REALTORS® President Leigh Brown had the honor of installing the BCAR's Board of Directors, which included the following:

• Bonnie Black, REMAX at the Beach
• Brian McKenna, Margaret Rudd & Associates
• Clif Cheek, Keller Williams Realty
• Denise Young, Coldwell Banker Sea Coast Advantage
• Fred Gainey, NorthGroup Real Estate
• Kathy Sherman, Keller Williams Realty
• Mark Lindsey, Coldwell Banker Sea Coast Advantage
• Martha Lee, Martha Lee Realty
• Tori Humphrey, Seaside Appraisals and Realty Centre

The remaining members of the 2023 Board of Directors that could not make it to the Installation will be sworn in at the January board meeting. This includes Jennifer Brown, Coldwell Banker Sea Coast Advantage, Richard Barnes, Barnes Real Estate Services, and Wilson Sherrill, Fred Thorne Realty.

Brian McKenna, Broker/REALTOR^® with Margaret Rudd & Assoc., Inc., REALTORS^®  is pictured above at far left.  The Brunswick County Association of REALTORS® (BCAR) is the local association level of the largest trade association in the nation presently serving its members comprised of REALTORS^®, Appraisers and Affiliate Members. For more information on this organization, chartered in 1959, visit BCARNC.com

The Christmas season is here, and it's time to find those special holiday gifts for your family and friends. Our real estate agents know that Southport is a wonderful place to call home, and it's also filled with an abundance of great gift shops for holiday shopping. We want to recommend some of our favorite shops where you'll find a variety of special Christmas gifts for everyone on your list.

• Coastal Cottage Shop
  If you're looking for a gift with coastal flair, head over to the Coastal Cottage Shop, where you'll find an assortment of lovely gifts that are everything coastal. This shop is filled with unique gifts, including upcycled furniture that's painted and upholstered, home decor items like china, linens, kitchen items, lamps, and household accessories. You'll also find an assortment of good coffee table books, custom jewelry items, artwork by local artists, and special holiday-themed gifts to celebrate the season.

• Mad River Studio
  If you're currently living in Southport or looking for Southport homes for sale with coastal views, be sure to make Mad River Studio your first stop. This store specializes in home design for coastal living. When you walk into the store, you'll be greeted by furniture and accessory items that reflect a comfortable coastal cottage interior. You can browse the showroom for floor items or request an in-home design for someone special on your Christmas list. Before you leave, be sure to say hello to Sailor and Fish, the two adorable shop dogs who just love getting treats.

• Magnolia's of Southport
  Magnolia's of Southport is a family-owned business that specializes in home decor and garden items, ladies' apparel, handbags, and accessories, custom jewelry from local artists, delightful greeting cards, and a variety of gifts. Magnolia's is a small comfortable shop that offers a personalized touch with lovely owners who will help you find the perfect holiday gift for family and friends. Magnolia's is open year-round, so plan a holiday visit this season to find a special Christmas gift for the lady of the house.

• Olde Southport Village Shops
  If you want to explore some unique shops with a charming atmosphere, don't miss a visit to the Olde Southport Village Shops. You can spend a relaxing afternoon browsing through a row of quaint little houses that contain everything from home décor, antiques and collectibles, artwork and hand-made pottery, hand-made jams and jellies, food and beverages, and Christmas candies and cookies. During the holiday season, you can even enjoy a Christmas festival with music, Santa, and some special holiday goodies.

• Southport Wine Rack
  For that person on your list who has everything, plan a shopping trip to the Southport Wine Rack located in the heart of historic downtown Southport, just across the street from the Southport Water Tower. This is a quaint shop that offers a big selection of wines from around the world, as well as tasty craft and imported beers. For a special holiday gift, take a friend to a free wine-tasting event or gift them a membership to the Wine Club, which offers invitations to "Members Only" events and special discounts on bottles of wine. The Wine Rack is the perfect place for a unique holiday experience and world-class Christmas spirits.

If you're thinking about a move to Southport, contact us to explore available properties with coastal views and great amenities. Let us help you find the home of your dreams this holiday season.

SHALLOTTE, N.C. - Brunswick County Association of REALTORS®

Brunswick County's residential real estate market exceeded $2 billion in year-to-date total sales in October with luxury sales leading the way, and more than half of all homes sold during October were sold at or above list price.

"While $2 billion in total sales seemed like an unreachable milestone just a couple of years ago, it doesn't come as a shock this year given our market's consistently strong performance month over month," said Cynthia Walsh, BCAR CEO. "Overall demand remains strong, prices continue to increase, and we continue to see a strong luxury market. Overall, our market is positioned for continued strength as we move into winter."

Brunswick County saw $211,520,000 in total sales volume in October, a 0.5% increase from last year's $210,450,000. The average sales price increased 9.3%, from $432,131 to $472,150. New listings were down 24.4%, from 622 to 470. The number of units sold in October dropped 8% compared to last year, from 487 to 448, and homes spent an average of 33 days on the market. The absorption rate, which is the amount of time it would take to sell all available inventory, remains at two months. Brunswick County's luxury market was strong in October with 24 sales in excess of $1 million, including three sales over $2 million and a 3.4 million sale in Ocean Isle Beach.

Year-to-date sales volume through October is $2,168,330,000, down 3.9% from $2,255,559,429 last year. Average sales prices for the year are 11.9% higher than 2021, increasing from $393,703 to $440,574. The number of units sold through October is down 16.9%, from 5,723 to 4,756, and the number of new listings is down 11.3%, from 6,316 to 5,602.

Brunswick County

• New Listings
  • October 2022: 470
  • October 2021: 622
  • Increase/Decrease: -24.4%
• Units Sold
  • October 2022: 448
  • October 2021: 487
  • Increase/Decrease: -8%
• Average Sales Price
  • October 2022: $472,150
  • October 2021: $432,131
  • Increase/Decrease: +9.3%
• Median Sales Price
  • October 2022: $425,000
  • October 2021: $343,168
  • Increase/Decrease: +23.8%
• Total Sales Volume
  • October 2022: $211,520,000
  • October 2021: $210,450,000
  • Increase/Decrease: +0.5%

Bladen County

• New Listings
  • October 2022: 20
  • October 2021: 9
  • Increase/Decrease: +122.2%
• Units Sold
  • October 2022: 12
  • October 2021: 18
  • Increase/Decrease: -33.3%
• Average Sales Price
  • October 2022: $192,408
  • October 2021: $188,289
  • Increase/Decrease: +2.2%
• Total Sales Volume
  • October 2022: $2,310,000
  • October 2021: $3,390,000
  • Increase/Decrease: -31.9%

Columbus County

• New Listings
  • October 2022: 31
  • October 2021: 37
  • Increase/Decrease: -16.2%
• Units Sold
  • October 2022: 29
  • October 2021: 29
  • Increase/Decrease: 0%
• Average Sales Price
  • October 2022: $215,475
  • October 2021: $192,366
  • Increase/Decrease: +12%
• Total Sales Volume
  • October 2022: $6,250,000
  • October 2021: $5,580,000
  • Increase/Decrease: +12%

The Brunswick County Association of REALTORS® (BCAR) is the local association level of the largest trade association in the nation, presently serving its members, which are comprised of REALTORS®, Appraisers, and Affiliate Members. For more information, please visit http://www.bcarnc.com.

The kitchen has often been called the most important room in the home, and that statement holds true when it comes time to put your home up for sale. Our real estate agents have learned that one of the first things prospective buyers look at is the kitchen.

That's why we always recommend that homeowners make sure their kitchens are up to par before listing their Southport homes for sale. If you're planning on selling your home, consider these affordable kitchen upgrades before you do so.

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Moving to the southeastern coast of North Carolina means acclimating yourself to the most beloved dishes and cuisine of the local area. For those of us in Brunswick County, and the low country of North Carolina, this usually involves falling in love with seafood. And, one of the most popular seafoods during the fall and winter is a salty, briny oyster.

Enjoy Oysters at Area Restaurants

Lucky residents of Southport, Oak Island and the surrounding areas can find these salty delicacies in numerous establishments. A few to note include:

Moore Street Oyster Bar

Earning its name from its extensive menu of oysters and fresh seafood, this popular spot can be found along the downtown streets of Southport. Pop in for a quick bite while shopping or visiting the waterfront. Be sure to order The Kathryn with artichoke, white wine, parmesan cream sauce and basil or the Simply Southern with collards, ham, and bacon topped with pimento cheese.

Shagger Jack's

Featuring an assorted menu with some quality cajun flair, Shagger Jack's is a local and tourist favorite with indoor and outdoor (dog-friendly) seating. Lightly fried oysters can be ordered as a platter with cole slaw and fries, or as a po'boy sandwich topped with lettuce, tomato, pickles and house-made remoulade.

Fishy Fishy

Seated right on the Intracoastal Waterway, boasting gorgeous sunset views is Fishy Fishy Restaurant. With dock side service available and a menu offering everything from delicious appetizers to seafood platters, you're sure to find something for the seafood lovers and non-seafood lovers in your crew! Opt for the highly-sought after seafood plate or add their mouth-watering oysters to any salad.

Island Way

Is there any other way than the Island Way? This oceanfront restaurant neighbors Ocean Crest Fishing Pier and offers some of the best views of any place in Brunswick County. Featuring steaks and seafood, be sure to stop by for a romantic dinner and to grab their oysters on the half shell before diving into your meal!

Enjoy Oysters at Home

Oysters can be enjoyed a variety of different ways like on the raw bar, steamed, fried or roasted. The only thing that stands in your way from devouring these filters of the ocean is the act of shucking (opening) the oysters. While the process seems intimidating, it's actually very simple.

Shuck in Six: 6 Steps to Shucking an Oyster

1. Protect. Use a thick cloth, kitchen towel or gloves to cover and protect your hands from the sharp shells and oyster knife.
2. Place. Using your non-dominant covered hand, hold the oyster with the hinge facing you.
3. Pressure. Using the oyster knife, gradually apply pressure and oscillate around the hinge to try and insert the knife into the hinge of the shell.
4. Cut. Once the knife enters the hinge of the shell, reach straight into the oyster for the adductor and make one clean cut across the adductor.
5. Open. Using the oyster knife, open the oyster and rinse it lightly to remove any broken shell pieces.
6. Decide. You can test the oyster by poking it around the lips to see if it's alive as it should retract. The oyster should smell fresh and like the ocean but not overly fishy or bad. If the oyster smells bad, or does not retract when poked, do not eat it. If the oyster is good to go, just decide on how you want to prepare to eat this delicacy!

Celebrate the Oyster

While oysters are technically harvested between October and March, they can be enjoyed year round. In Brunswick County, we celebrate all that is the oyster during the NC Oyster Festival. This annual family-friendly event includes everything from an oyster roast and arts and crafts festival to a full entertainment line-up and so much more!

Enjoy Oysters In Your Brunswick County Home

Living in Brunswick County is about so much more than just enjoying oysters. Whether you're looking for the perfect second home with a bit of coastal charm or you want to know what island life is all about, reach out to Margaret Rudd & Associates, Inc., REALTORS® today to learn more about living in Brunswick County, North Carolina. Be sure to check out the current available listings on our website to find your new Brunswick County dream home today!